10. Bar Cento

Perhaps best known for its pizza, especially the Sunnyside which has sunny side up eggs cooked into the pizza along with pancetta and provolone, this Ohio City bar and eatery has much more than just pizza. Unfortunately, the rest of the food isn’t as good as their za. Since it’s owned by the same people as the Bier Markt, which it shares space with, it’s a little bit of a confusing setup, but the wine and beer is certainly worthwhile. I’ve tried the Sunnyside and yes, it’s pretty freaking good.

1948 West 25th St. Cleveland

9. Caffe Roma

An Italian eatery located in West Park, there’s nothing fancy about this place, but they have the best Italian dressing I’ve ever had (sorry Paul Newman). A step above comfort food, but I’ve never had a bad meal there and would recommend anyone who’s on the west side and interested in trying Italian food to go there. It definitely won’t break the bank either.

13000 Lorain Ave. Cleveland

8. Mia Bella

Another great spot in Little Italy (one of my favorite places to eat). The restaurant itself isn’t all that big and  can be a tight fit, but the food is everything you could ask for from an Italian restaurant.

12220 Mayfield Rd. Cleveland

7. Bodega

Another spot on Coventry Road. The best dirty martini I’ve ever had! A large menu with a diverse selection of American, Mediterranean, and some Moroccan dishes.  They have a great happy hour and the tapas menu won’t disappoint. I especially like the crab croquettes.

1854 Coventry Rd. Cleveland Heights

6. Alley Cat Oyster Bar

One of the few places in Cleveland where you know you’ll get great oysters. A reasonably  priced restaurant, especially considering it’s located on the east bank of the Flats.

1056 Old River Rd. Cleveland

5. Bar 107 CLOSED

Only open four nights a week, this is a modestly upscale restaurant and bar located near Baldwin-Wallace University, though it’s not overly populated by college students if that’s your fear. The food is exceptionally good. The wings were juicy and much meatier than most places (I had the Cajun rub) and the burger was impeccable. The french fries by the way were just as good as the burger.  And  they have a lot of live music there as well. We saw a John Lennon cover band on a recent Saturday night and the house was packed. Imagine.

107 Front St. Berea

4. Blue Pointe Grille

If it weren’t for Pier W, this would probably be Cleveland’s finest seafood restaurant. And the steak is every bit as good as the fish. Located in downtown’s trendiest restaurant district, you won’t leave unsatisfied, though it won’t be cheap.

700 W. St. Clair Ave. Cleveland 

3. Guarino’s

Cleveland’s oldest restaurant (at least that’s what they claim) also boasts a backyard patio that’s second-to-none. Located in Little Itlay, this is a first-rate Italian dining experience. The bruschetta appetizer was very good and the veal parmigiana was superb. Definitely try to get a seat on that patio. The last time I went we were the only two people there and it’s exquisite. You’ll almost feel like you’re eating in your own backyard.

12309 Mayfield Rd. Cleveland 

2. Bourbon Street Barrel Room

The BEST Bloody Mary I’ve ever had! And the food was darn good too. I had the Shrimp Creole pasta and it was superb. The design is one of the coolest parts of this restaurant as it was built with a New Orleans flavor…which isn’t a surprise since it’s a Cajun-themed restaurant. I’m a huge fan of Cajun/Creole food, so I didn’t find it to be too spicy, but those with sensitive stomachs might. Located in Tremont, which means the only possible downside you might  find is parking, but it’s not much of a problem.

2396 Professor Ave. Cleveland

1.  Pier W

Maybe it’s just me but the Lobster Bisque here the best non-alcoholic liquid I’ve ever put in my mouth. Located pretty much on top of Lake Erie the view is second to none. In my opinion, it’s the best restaurant in the area. It isn’t inexpensive but it’s worth it. And, they have a pretty good happy hour in the bar with drink and food specials. Maybe just as important as the food, they know how to make their drinks. I have to go back soon to try the bouillabaisse, so I’ll remember to use my camera.

12700 Lake Ave.  Lakewood