Marc Bona, cleveland.com

55 Cleveland-area restaurants to try before you die

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Northeast Ohio has, of course, great restaurants. But there are some special ones that, if you live here, you have to venture to at some point in your culinary travels. In a way, they’re the ones that fit our foodie moods. Some are special fine-dining affairs, others are comfort-food classics. Some serve pizza while others make grilled cheese special. From hot sauce to hot dogs, these should be on everyone’s list to try. Bon appetit!

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Joshua Gunter, cleveland.com

Aldo's Restaurant

Aldo's Restaurant, 8459 Memphis Ave., Brooklyn, 216-749-7060: Enthusiastic appreciation for well-executed Italian classics and an ever-changing menu of fresh dishes (especially seafood) make this small, noisy spot the place for a cheerful evening. $$-$$$, major credit cards accepted. Cuisine: Italian. (Joe Crea, cleveland.com)

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David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com

Angelo's

Angelo's, 13715 Madison Ave., Lakewood, 216-221-0440, angeloslakewood.com. Known for its excellent pizza with a tender, chewy crust, Angelo's is almost always packed. In 2011, Angelo's topped competitors in Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer's Pizza Playoffs, and loyal fans returned them again to the list of top finalists in 2014. Good pastas, other Italian entrees, too.

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John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Batuqui

Batuqui, 12706 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, 216-801-0227, batuquicleveland.com. There are very few Brazilian restaurants in Cleveland, but this charming café - in a Victorian century house, with chic patios and front and back - is the first place Clevelanders should visit to sample the diverse and multi-layered cuisines of Portuguese-influenced Brazil.

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John Kuntz, cleveland.com

The Black Pig

The Black Pig, 2801 Bridge St. (Ohio City), Cleveland, 216-862-7551, theblackpigcleveland.com: Almost hog heaven, there's a whole lot of oink on this menu. Chef/owner Michael Nowak's ham-handed élan covers everything from pork belly and greens to boudin blanc and English peas. The very seasonal menu also includes multi-ethnic renderings of vegetables of the moment and pastas and fish that might change by the week. Amidst all this culinary elegance and seasonality, there's still room for the Pig's lower-brow but perpetually highly praised hamburgers. $$-$$$. All major credit cards. Cuisine: Seasonal, Euro-inspired with international flavors. (Beth Segal, Special to cleveland.com)

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Joshua Gunter, cleveland.com

Chez Francois

Chez Francois, 555 Main St., Vermilion, 440-967-0630, chezfrancois.com: True four-star dining experiences and exacting French preparations are a rare thing in Northeast Ohio. That makes the trek to Vermilion and an evening at Chez Francois all the more vivid and romantic an adventure. $$$$, all major credit cards accepted. Cuisine: Traditional French. (Joe Crea, cleveland.com)

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Joshua Gunter, Cleveland.com

Corky & Lenny's

Corky & Lenny's, 27091 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, 216-464-3838, corkyandlennys.com. An East Side institution with a burgeoning menu. Traditional Jewish deli offerings, from matzo ball or "mish-mosh" soup to fish plates and more, but veterans inevitably stagger back for the hot corned beef, a justifiably "famous" Reuben and good cheese blintzes. It's hard to resist the case filled with cookies, rugallah, cheesecake, more.

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Marc Bona, cleveland.com

Dante

Dante, 2247 Professor Ave., Cleveland (Tremont); 216-274-1200, danteboccuzzi.com: Trained in New York and Europe, chef Dante Boccuzzi has established an eating boutique aimed at every whim: a little something to temper a cocktail, rich things for small appetites, and full-blown meals. A chef's chef, he seduces meat into peak succulence, not letting any ingredient make a fool of itself. The former bank building can get noisy on a busy night, but still feels grand. $$$-$$$$. All major credit cards. Cuisine: Contemporary American. (Debbi Snook, The Plain Dealer

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John Petkovic, cleveland.com

Blue Point Grille

Blue Point Grille, 700 W. St. Clair Ave., Cleveland (Warehouse District); 216-875-7827, bluepointgrille.com: It might not be the latest-hottest-gotta-be-there address in town. But more than a decade after opening, the Blue Point remains one of the city's best restaurants. One of the first places to establish the Warehouse District as a food-and-drink destination, this lovely, airy seafood restaurant with bar is still more than worth the drive. Zagat named the landmark, "Cleveland's Most Popular Restaurant." $$$-$$$$, all major credit cards. Cuisine: Seafood, American. (Laura DeMarco, The Plain Dealer)

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Gus Chan, The Plain Dealer

Deagan's Kitchen & Bar

Deagan's Kitchen & Bar, 14810 Detroit Ave., Lakewood; 216-767-5775, deagans.com: It seems you can't walk a block without walking into a gastropub these days -- but Deagan's in Lakewood remains one of the best. It's a true neighborhood watering hole -- with an extensive import and craft beer list and cool vintage cocktail menu, and a kitchen that turns out food worthy of any fine dining establishment. $$$, all major credit cards. Cuisine: Contemporary American. (Laura DeMarco, The Plain Dealer)

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Lisa DeJong, The Plain Dealer

Diamond Grille

Diamond Grille, 77 W. Market St., Akron, 330-253-0041. Diamondgrille.com: With an old-fashioned feel, the Diamond Grille is a hidden gem in Akron, a throwback that features sumptuous steaks. $$-$$$, no credit cards. Cuisine: Steakhouse, American. (Marc Bona, cleveland.com)

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John Kuntz, cleveland.com

Don's Pomeroy House

Don's Pomeroy House, 13664 Pearl Road, Strongsville; 440-572-1111, donspomeroy.com: Don's Pomeroy House, which dates to the 19th century, remains a comfortable, classic setting for special meals. Menu choices include seafood, steak and more. $$$-$$$$. All major credit cards. Cuisine: Traditional American. (Marc Bona, cleveland.com)

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John Kuntz, clevland.com

Fahrenheit

Fahrenheit, 2417 Professor Ave., Cleveland, 216-781-8858, chefroccowhelan.com: Fahrenheit in Tremont is often mentioned near the top of any list of the city's best, and for good reason. If there is a common thread among chef-owner Rocco Whelan's eclectic dishes, it's the kitchen's ability to highlight a wide range of flavors, both bold and subtle, that beautifully complement the main ingredients. $$$-$$$$, all major credit cards accepted. Cuisine: Contemporary American. (Bob Migra, Special to cleveland.com)

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David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com

Fire Food & Drink

Fire Food & Drink, 13220 Shaker Square, Cleveland, 216-921-3473, firefoodanddrink.com: Free of gimmicks and trend chasing, Douglas Katz's industrial-chic, minimalist spot has made a national name for itself with a deep menu. $$$, all major credit cards. Cuisine: New American. $$$. (Laura DeMarco, The Plain Dealer)

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Joshua Gunter, cleveland.com

Flying Fig

Flying Fig, 2523 Market Ave., Cleveland, 216-241-4243, theflyingfig.com: When you have one of the best chefs in town at the helm and a longstanding commitment to locally grown fare, it's hard not to have a good meal. Chef Karen Small is as devoted to artful preparations of fresh, sustainable ingredients as she is operating a place that resonates "good times." In a word, dining at the Flying Fig can be exhilarating. $$-$$$, all major credit cards accepted. Cuisine: Modern American. (Joe Crea, cleveland.com)

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John Kuntz, cleveland.com

Ginko

Ginko, 2247 Professor Ave., Cleveland (Tremont); 216-274-1202, danteboccuzzi.com: This modern and colorful eatery features the talented Taishi Noma, a tall, bespectacled chef with the bearing of a Zen master. To be sure, his fish and rice are worthy of contemplation. $$$-$$$$. All major credit cards. Cuisine: Japanese. (David Farkas, Special to cleveland.com)

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Thomas Ondrey, The Plain Dealer

Giovanni's Ristorante

Giovanni's Ristorante, 25550 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood; 216-831-8625, giovanniscleveland.com: Old World charm heightened by exceptional cuisine, tableside preparations and exacting service combine to make dining at Giovanni's a singular experience. Truly, a classic. $$$$. All major credit cards. Cuisine: Italian. (Joe Crea, cleveland.com)

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John Kuntz, cleveland.com

Greenhouse Tavern

Greenhouse Tavern, 2038 East Fourth St., Cleveland, 216-443-0511, thegreenhousetavern.com: This is the flagship of one of Cleveland's most-awarded chefs, Jonathon Sawyer, who forged his style for local and rustic flavors with fine attention to meats. Don't miss the confit chicken wings, barbecued apple (in season), clams with foie gras and Roasted Pig Head. It sounds like a gimmick, but it can make a perfect Sunday dinner for four or more. $$-$$$$ All major credit cards. Cuisine: New American. (Debbi Snook, The Plain Dealer)

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John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Guarino's

Guarino's, 12309 Mayfield Road, Cleveland

216-231-3100, guarinoscleveland.com. Opened as a speakeasy in 1918, Guarino's claims title to Cleveland's oldest restaurant. The old-school spaghetti house is usually crowded (especially on weekends) and covers most traditional bases, from Italian wedding soup to pastas in various sauces, and piccatas, parmigianas and marsalas.

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Joshua Gunter, cleveland.com

Happy Dog

Happy Dog, 5801 Detroit Ave., Cleveland

216-651-9474, happydogcleveland.com. The Happy Dog is a hot-dog diner with an artist's soul, delivering 50-plus toppings, including, most famously, Fruit Loops. Yes, 50 is a lot of toppings, but The Dog just does dogs – plus fries or tater tots as side dishes, also offered with the same selection of toppings. In addition they serve up craft beer, live music, comedy, readings and other literary and cultural events.

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Joe Crea, cleveland.com

Heck's Cafe

Heck's Cafe, 2927 Bridge Ave., Cleveland

216-861-5464, heckscafe.com. Warm service, a comfortably eccentric space and big upscale hamburgers at down-home prices for almost 40 years. Sparkling-fresh salads and silken cremes brulees are added attractions at this Cleveland classic. A second location is at 35514 Detroit Rd. in Avon.

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Brenda Cain, cleveland.com

Hot Dog Diner

Hot Dog Diner, 5494 Pearl Road, Parma

440-886-3647, hotdogdiner.com. A fun, family-owned dog-and-burger restaurant emphasizing fresh fare and friendly service at fast-food prices. The hot dogs are specially made for the diner by a butcher in Toledo, and are grilled, never boiled, to order. All vegetables, including the potatoes for the french fries, are hand cut daily. Cole slaw, seasoning blends, spices are house-made. Good fries, too.

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Cory Shaffer, cleveland.com

Hot Sauce Williams

Hot Sauce Williams, 7815 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland, 216-391-2230, on Facebook. This institution has been zinging tongues and soothing tummies for decades. To call it a home-style place doesn't do Hot Sauce justice. The menu was actually born out of home recipes the Williams brothers grew up on in Tupelo, Miss. Based on the taste of the chicken wings and ribs -- not to mention the sauce, which is a balance of tangy and spicy without being insanely hot -- it must've been a happy home.

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Joshua Gunter, cleveland.com

Johnny's Bar

Johnny's Bar, 3164 Fulton Road, Cleveland, 216-281-0055, johnnyscleveland.com: Head to the original restaurant on Fulton Road for upscale Italian, seafood and pasta. Johnny's has not slipped a bit. The menu is still dotted with many of the favorites from 20 years ago, dishes like grilled long-bone veal chop, cold-smoked filet mignon, and a variety of pastas and seafood specialties. $$$$, all major credit cards accepted. Cuisine: Italian. (Bob Migra, Special to cleveland.com)

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John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

La Dolce Vita

La Dolce Vita, 12112 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, 216-721-8155, ladolcevitamurrayhill.com. A Little Italy institution, Terry Tarantino's bistro celebrates "The Sweet Life" with plenty of Old World charm and a notable wine list that is 200-plus bottles long. A welcoming environment awash in tin ceilinged and white tableclothed charm. A concise, well-chosen menu of mains, pastas, pizzas and desserts.

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John Kuntz, cleveland.com

L'Albatros Brasserie & Bar

L'Albatros Brasserie & Bar, 11401 Bellflower Road, Cleveland, 216-791-7880, albatrosbrasserie.com: Veteran Cleveland chef and owner Zack Bruell marries classic French cuisine and contemporary American to create the right sparks. Don't miss the cassoulet, lamb (sandwich or entrée), grilled salmon with spanking Bernaise, or the chocolate Napoleon, most at comparatively bargain prices. Gorgeous day? Hit the gorgeous patio. $$$. All major credit cards. Cuisine: Contemporary French. (Debbi Snook, The Plain Dealer)

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Story and Photographs by John Petkovic | jpetkovic@plaind.com

Le Petit Triangle Cafe

Le Petit Triangle Cafe, 1881 Fulton Rd., Cleveland

216-281-1881, lepetittriangle.com. French-themed eatery rolls out a delightful menu and vibe of this Parisian-style cafe. It's small – some might say too cramped - out front. Limited spirits; extensive beer and wine. French breakfast specialties available throughout the day; service begins 10 a.m.

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Thomas Ondrey, The Plain Dealer

Li Wah

Li Wah, 2999 Payne Ave. (Asia Plaza), Cleveland

216-696-6556, liwahrestaurant.com. Li Wah's full menu of traditional Chinese dishes (including items hard to find elsewhere locally) draws scores of Northeast Ohioans. But this landmark is best known for its daily dim sum offerings. Go on weekends, when the giant restaurant is packed but the carts brim with specialty dishes.

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Lisa DeJong, The Plain Dealer

Lockkeepers

Lockkeepers, 8001 Rockside Road, Valley View; 216-524-9404, lockkeepers.com: Affordable options and sophisticated fare meet on an Italian-inspired menu by Venetian native chef Alberto Leandri at this restaurant in Valley View. Traditional dishes, modern interpretations and house-made pastas merge here. Portions are generous, and likely will leave enough for lunch. $$$. All major credit cards: Cuisine: Italian. (David Farkas, Special to cleveland.com; updated by Joe Crea, cleveland.com)

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David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com

Lola Bistro

Lola Bistro, 2058 East Fourth St., Cleveland; 216-621-5652, lolabistro.com: Critics, including readers of the Zagat Survey, bestow a grade of "extraordinary to perfection" to Chef Michael Symon's artsy eatery. Lola is still a master of flesh, whether fish, poultry, or red or white meat - and the same holds true for its voluptuous veggies. $$$-$$$$, major credit cards. Cuisine: Contemporary American. (David Farkas, Special to cleveland.com; Updated by Joe Crea)

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Gus Chan, The Plain Dealer

Luca Italian Cuisine

Luca Italian Cuisine, 2100 Superior Viaduct, Cleveland, 216-862-2761, lucacleveland.com: Who needs Europe? From the windows of this luxe ristorante perched on top of the Superior-Viaduct bridge, nighttime Cleveland shimmers in urban splendor, it's our very own City of Light. The food is just as glamorous, exuberant platters of elegant antipasti, big bowls of sweet succulent shellfish, enormous slow roasted wild boar shanks, black and white striped ravioli stuffed with lobster, and divinely decadent tiramisu. Almost everything here is deluxe, but chef/owner Luca Sema knows how to make it fun without pretense or stuffiness. He seems to be operating the very clubbiest of chic clubs. And everyone with the wherewithal is welcome to bask in the cosmopolitan luster that makes it one of the most glamorous, and romantic, places in town. $$$$. All major credit cards. Cuisine: Italian. (Beth Segal, Special to cleveland.com)

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Luchita's

Luchita's

Luchita's, 3456 W. 117th St., Cleveland, 216-252-1169, https://www.luchitas.net/. This institution has become generally more sophisticated, adding regional Mexican flavors to its Tex-Mex beginnings. Try the shredded chicken dishes, guacamole, ceviche, flan.

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Luigi's

Luigi's, 105 N. Main St., Akron, 330-253-2999. luigisrestaurant.com. Luigi's is in a class by itself: From the Rube Goldberg contraptions on the walls to the thick old-style pizzas, to the double cheese salads where the lettuce is completely hidden by a mountain of shredded cheese, to the giant pepperoni pizza sign out front and signed photographs of entertainers lining the wall. If there is authentic Akron, this is it. (Marc Bona, cleveland.com)

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Marc Bona, cleveland.com

Mabel's BBQ

Mabel's BBQ, 2050 East Fourth St., Cleveland; 216-417-8823; mabelsbbq.com: Brisket is the superstar here, and Michael Symon's place. Ask for it and you get another question, "fatty or lean?" Go for the fat if your health budget will allow it. Warm and cool Pastrami-style spices make the Giant Beef Ribs a standout. Some beautiful things also happen with pork ribs: the flirty way the meat slips off the bones (little resistance, just enough to make it playful), the smoke blush on the meat grain, and the rub, which caramelized into a coating that tasted like meat candy steeped in coriander and pepper. $$$; all major credit cards. Cuisine: Barbecue (Debbi Snook, The Plain Dealer)

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Mallorca

Mallorca, 1390 W 9th St, Cleveland, 216-687-9494, clevelandmallorca.com: Mallorca is one of the few old school fine dining establishments thriving in hipster foodie Cleveland – from its white linen tablecloths to its leather-bound menu and tuxedo-clad waiters. As elegant as it is, however, Mallorca is neither stuffy or boring. For two decades, the Iberian restaurant has served sumptuous Spanish and Portuguese food to an area lacking many choices in those areas. Its wide ranging menu is heavy on seafood. Shrimp, lobster, tilapia, scallops, crab, surf and turf, sole and orange roughy all swim through their menu, which is also dotted with standards such as broiled filet mignon, veal scaloppini, lobster ravioli and chicken in white wine sauce. Don't miss the classic Paella Valenciana. $$$ - $$$$. (Laura DeMarco, The Plain Dealer)

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Marc Bona, cleveland.com

Melt Bar & Grilled

Melt Bar & Grilled, 13463 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-965-0988, meltbarandgrilled.com. These fabled Northeast Ohio-born grilled cheese joints were created by chef-owner Matt Fish. Getting a table can still require one of the longest waits in town. But the sandwiches are decadent, creative, diet-blowing delights, ordered off of vinyl-record covers converted into menus and served in a funky restaurant-bar with a rock 'n' roll vibe. (Locations throughout Northeast Ohio.)

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Scott Shaw, The Plain Dealer

Michaelangelo's

Michaelangelo's, 2198 Murray Hill Road, Cleveland, 216-721-0300, mangelos.com. Italian fare beyond the familiar? Few restaurants in town rival Michaelangelo's. Chef Michael Annandono treats humble or glorious fare with equal respect. Terrific pastas (especially the stuffed varieties), boldly flavorful sauces and toothsome braised meats are highlights. (Joe Crea, cleveland.com)

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John Kuntz, cleveland.com

Minh Anh

Minh Anh, 5428 Detroit Ave., Cleveland

216-961-9671, minh-anh.com. As close as it gets to the perfect down-to-earth Vietnamese diner. The look and prices are downscale, but the ethereal pho and elegant spring rolls are exceptional. Rib-sticking curries and noodle dishes keep it real.

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Joshua Gunter, cleveland.com

Momocho

Momocho, 1835 Fulton Road, Cleveland, 216-694-2122, momocho.com: Chef Eric Williams' sanctuary to "Mod Mex" cuisine. The fun of Momocho lies in exploring new tastes in an exuberant, funky and hip atmosphere. $$-$$$. All major credit cards. Cuisine: Mexican. (Eric Susyne, Special to The Plain Dealer)

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John Kuntz, cleveland.com

Moxie the Restaurant

Moxie the Restaurant, 3355 Richmond Road, Beachwood; 216-831-5599, moxietherestaurant.com: Exacting preparations and attentive service are hallmarks of this Beachwood bastion. The fare is made with precision yet maintains a kind of casual, home-cooked deliciousness. $$$-$$$$, all major credit cards. Cuisine: Contemporary American. (David Farkas, Special to cleveland.com; Updated by Joe Crea)

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John Kuntz, cleveland.com

Nighttown

Nighttown, 12383 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, Cleveland; 216-795-0550; nighttowncleveland.com. Go back in time in this wonderfully clubby atmosphere, with dozens of posters and prints and art adorning the walls. The flagship Famous Dublin Lawyer – a lobster-bisque-like entrée – is not to be missed. Established in 1965, it's also a jazz club. $$$. All major credit cards. Cuisine: Contemporary. (Marc Bona, cleveland.com)

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John Petkovic, cleveland.com

Olesia's Place

Olesia's Place, 11204 Royalton Road, North Royalton, olesiasplace.com: Contemporary flourishes and a greenhouse-like environment belie old-world flavors and satisfying fare. $$, Visa, Mastercard and Discover. Cuisine: Ukrainian, American. (Bob Migra, Special to cleveland.com)

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Courtesy, Zack Bruell Restaurants

Parallax

Parallax, 2179 West 11th St. (Tremont) Cleveland; 216-583-9999, parallaxtremont.com: Imaginative contrasts are part of chef Zack Bruell's craft. Parallax is a showcase for precise executions of diverse dishes, reflecting gastronomic influences of Asian cookery. Wonderful sushi to be had here, too. $$$, All major cards. Asian-, global-inspired Contemporary American. (David Farkas, Special to cleveland.com; Updated by Joe Crea)

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David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com

Pier W

Pier W, 12700 Lake Ave. at Winton Place, Lakewood; 216-228-2250, pierw.com: From its lovely vantage on the cliffs above Lake Erie to its artful handling of seafood and meat dishes, a destination for special occasions, big dates or just a fine meal anytime. $$$. Cuisine: Seafood, contemporary American. (Bob Migra, Special to cleveland.com)

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Joshua Gunter. cleveland.com

Prosperity Social Club

Hungarian Stuffed Cabbage; pork and beef rolls in sauerkraut, paprikash sauce from Prosperity Social Club in Tremont. Photographed Wednesday, February 26, 2014. (Joshua Gunter/ The Plain Dealer)

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John Kuntz, cleveland.com

Red, the Steakhouse

Red the Steakhouse, 3355 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216-831-2252, redthesteakhouse.com: The original Red remains a trove of pleasures. With its handsome stone and burnished burgundy walls, and the inviting gleam of its chic wine room, this austere "cave a boeuf" whets the appetite as it draws you in. Don't hesitate to succumb; the food is especially delicious. Note: The location is scheduled to move to Orange in 2017. Also: Downtown location, 417 Prospect Ave., Cleveland, 216-664-0941: Apart from décor, which mimics its suburban cousin, Red's downtown incarnation is every inch its equal - superb steaks and seafood, sides, appetizers and desserts. $$$-$$$$, all major credit cards. Cuisine: Steakhouse, seafood, contemporary American. (Joe Crea, cleveland.com)

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Allison Carey, The Plain Dealer

Seven Roses Polish Deli

Seven Roses Polish Deli, 6301 Fleet Ave., Cleveland

216-641-5789. With its combination of food shop, gift shop and old world décor, Seven Roses is as much a time capsule as it is a Polish restaurant. Delicate pierogi and stuffed cabbages, crisp made-to-order potato pancakes and a small menu of Eastern European fare, Seven Roses is a popular stop for locals who can't find their native cuisine nearly as well prepared elsewhere.

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Marc Bona, cleveland.com

Slyman's

Slyman's, 3106 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, 216-621-3760, slymans.com. A regular stop among visiting U.S. presidents and candidates, as well as food celebs, Slyman's is among the very best in Cleveland. Huge corned-beef sandwiches are filled with silken slices of wonderfully moist corned beef. Good breakfasts, too

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John Kuntz, cleveland.com

Sokolowski's University Inn

Sokolowski's University Inn, 1201 University Road (Tremont), Cleveland, 216-771-9236, sokolowskis.com: Like our city, Sokolowski's is unassuming but proud, a high-quality and hearty mix of Old World and New. Food is ordered from a cafeteria-style line and it's still packed for lunch and Friday and Saturday dinners. It's a family-friendly restaurant for all ages - drawn to the home-made pierogi, soups, chops, fish fries, stuffed cabbage and much more. (Laura DeMarco, The Plain Dealer)

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Gus Chan, The Plain Dealer

Spice Kitchen & Bar

Spice Kitchen & Bar, 5800 Detroit Ave. (Gordon Square), Cleveland, 216-961-9637, spicekitchenandbar.com: Chef/owner and chief locavore advocate, Ben Bebenroth, takes the best of what's in the garden right now and makes it even better. There's a lot to like on the short but sweet menu, but try not to fall in love. What's there today may not be around next week, or even tomorrow. $$-$$$. All major credit cards. Cuisine: Farm to Table. (Beth Segal, Special to cleveland.com)

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BurkleHagen Photography

Superior Pho

Superior Pho, 3030 Superior Ave. (rear entry off East 31st Street), Cleveland, 216-781-7462, superiorpho.com: A good pho -- a fragrant, clear soup that makes use of freshly prepared meat broth, noodles and meats in various stages of cooking, plus all kinds of aromatic herbs, crunchy bean sprouts and zesty sauces -- is a national dish of Vietnam. It's primo here, in many versions. Fried rice and chicken and cabbage salads. $-$$. Most major credit cards. Cuisine: Vietnamese. (Debbi Snook, The Plain Dealer)

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Jeff Piorkowski, Special to Sun News

Swenson's

Swensons Drive In, 40 S. Hawkins Ave., Akron

330-864-8416. swensonsdriveins.com. Heading to Swenson's is both a trip down Nostalgia Lane as well as a chance to taste a bit of Akron's culinary past. It's a drive-in, with hustling carhops serving the iconic "Galley Boy" – a double cheeseburger with special sauces. Good shakes. Other restaurants located throughout the area.

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Tommy's Restaurant

Tommy's Restaurant, 1824 Coventry Road, Cleveland Heights

216-321-7757, tommyscoventry.com. Once a hippie haven, Tommy's has maintained, and flourished, as a casual, family-friendly place. Vegetarians and meat-eaters coexist by way of a vast and diverse menu of freshly prepared far - along with those with special dietary needs or preferences. Mother Earth-style fare in abundance, in the heart a popular retail district.

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Joshua Gunter, cleveland.com

Trentina

Trentina, 1903 Ford Drive, Cleveland. 216-421-2900; restauranttrentina.com: Here is a kitchen that looks deeply -- although not exclusively -- into terroir, that French term for the unique results a local chef can craft from the local landscape. Jonathon Sawyer, his wife Amelia, and his staff are on it, with influence from Northern Italy and Germany on the plate that pose flavors so different, so challenging, many of them create a sense of wonder and contemplation. $$-$$$$; all major credit cards. Cuisine: New American. (Debbi Snook, The Plain Dealer)

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Peggy Turbett, The Plain Dealer

Washington Place Bistro & Inn

Washington Place Bistro & Inn, 2203 Cornell Road, in Cleveland's Little Italy, 216-791-6500, washingtonplacelittleitaly.com. Bright, bold flavors with plenty of subtle touches are hallmarks of chef-owner Scott Kuhn's style. Some of the standouts are humble-sounding dishes such as an excellent pot roast, shrimp-and-grits, and the wild mushroom meatloaf. The refurbished Baricelli Mansion (formerly the much loved Baricelli Inn) exudes sunny warm colors, lots of light and now sports a bar. $$$, all major credit cards accepted. Cuisine: Contemporary American, bistro. (Joe Crea, cleveland.com)

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Peggy Turbett, The Plain Dealer

White Oaks

White Oaks, 777 Cahoon Rd., Westlake, 440-835-3090, white-oaks.com/cmswo. Eliot Ness used to hang out here. Opened in 1928, White Oaks has an authentic charm that a thousand Applebee's restaurants can't hope to capture. The menu seems, at times, to have been set in stone sometime in the late 1950s. Food satisfying, if sometimes uneven.