19 Great Must Try Ohio City Restaurants | Where To Eat In Ohio City, Cleveland

Downtown Cleveland is great to visit. There, wonderful museums like the Great Lakes Science Center and Rock And Roll Hall of Fame, the lovely Public Square, and all the city’s sports arenas are within an easy walk from your hotel. However, if you want to do as the locals do and eat where the locals eat, getting out of downtown Cleveland is key.

If you head west across the bridge into Ohio City, Cleveland’s historic neighborhood, you’ll hit the foodie jackpot. Check out this list of great Ohio City restaurants.

Not in the mood to go out to eat tonight? Click here to have Grubhub deliver directly from the best restaurants in town to your doorstep.

While in the city of Cleveland, don’t miss out on activities that will help immerse yourself with the city (hurry while they’re hot!):

Wondering About Ohio Food? Check Out These Guides:

Top 19 Places to Eat in Ohio City: Best Ohio City Restaurants, Cleveland

Best Ohio City Restaurants on West 25th Street

You can’t go to Ohio City without stumbling across West 25th Street. This street has garnered quite a reputation for its bars, restaurants, and breweries. Five breweries stand on this street alone! Be prepared for some truly amazing places to eat, all in this one spot.

TownHall

1909 W 25th St. // +1 216-344-9400

TownHall offers you the best brunches, coffee, and even evening outs at West 25th Street. You can watch the latest Cleveland sports game on TV, order one of their many craft beers on tap, and maybe even spot a Kardashian with their posse sitting in a corner.

But above all, diners praise TownHall for its diet-friendly menu. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, Keto, non-GMO, Paleo, allergies…you name it, TownHall has tasty food for every restriction. And, we’re not just talking salads. Check out their food truck tacos with organic corn tortillas, options of pork belly, chicken, tofu, or vegan chicken, slaw, salsa, and cilantro-lime crema or harissa roasted cauliflower with toasted cashews, avocado oil, and spirulina vegan bleu cheese.

While there, pair one of their amazing smoothies with your TownHall veggie burger without cheese and a vegan bun. You’ll feel healthier already.

Music Box Supper Club

1148 Main Ave, Cleveland // +12162421250

Music Box Supper Club is a world-class restaurant and concert venue situated on the Cuyahoga River with spectacular views of the downtown skyline.

With nearly nightly concerts, it’s a great place to listen to live music while enjoying a meal.

The Music Box Supper Club menu offers simple yet exquisite dishes that taste like homemade food and have won awards from Cleveland Magazine and Cleveland’s Scene Magazine.

The menu offers a variety of fresh, local ingredients served in season, whether it is Cornish hen, Lake Erie perch or summer squash ravioli. Everything is amazing!

Old Angle Tavern

1848 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113, the United States // +12168615643

Old Angle Tavern is a great place to stop for a quick bite to eat or to linger awhile and have a few drinks! This restaurant has a wide selection of meals and beverages!

The buffalo basil chicken wings were wonderful. The fries were perfectly cooked, carefully cut, and provided with house-made ketchup in generous volumes. As far as I know, all of the sauces are made from scratch.

The craic head sandwich and grilled cheese were both reasonably priced and reliably tasty. There’s no need to order extra fries with either. Even the mac and cheese is delicious, with plenty of cheese and a substantial portion.

If you want a soccer bar with fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, or bangers and mash, this is the place to go.

It’s dimly lit, but it exudes authenticity. There is a toasty fireplace, plenty of huge TVs, and sports are always on, as they should be in a sports bar. The service is also first-rate.

If you see a guy around wearing a green old angle shirt, that’s the guy that makes this place go! So give this spot a visit!

ABC the Tavern

1872 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113, the United States // +12168613857

This is one of my favorite spots in the area. The ambiance is just what you’d expect from a welcoming neighborhood tavern.

On the first level, there is plenty of seating at the bar and tables, as well as a very exciting second floor where you can hang out and play pool.

The bartenders are quite pleasant, and the drink service is prompt. They have an excellent beer selection and a variety of happy hour discounts. I believe that the food is what distinguishes ABC from other comparable bars in the neighborhood.

The menu is small, yet each item has been properly prepared. My favorite is their ABC Burger, which has an abundance of fries. I believe their restaurant is open until 2 a.m., the latest of any West 25th pub, so this can be a go-to location when everything else has closed.

The front and back patios are also fantastic places to hang out and meet new people in the summer. Overall, it is a fantastic pub that is well worth a visit!

Mitchell’s Ice Cream

1867 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113, the United States // +12168612799

Mitchell’s is a Cleveland institution that was started by two of Cleveland’s sons in 1999 to provide residents with a place to go for authentic ice cream made with the finest ingredients available.

Their flagship store is situated in a historic theater that has been lovingly restored and is just a short distance from the bustling West Side Market in the rejuvenated historic Ohio City neighborhood.

As you enter the store, you’ll be drawn in by the irresistible aroma of baking waffle cones. When selecting their well-liked taster’s duo, try as many exquisite tastes as possible before deciding on one or two.

Large glass windows provide for plenty of natural light and great views of the busy outside. As in each of their establishments throughout Cleveland, one of Mitchell’s recognizable trains rumbles along the ceiling line.

Long tables with fresh flowers add to the casual atmosphere. So it is understandable why everyone in this place is so joyful. Behind enormous glass panels, there is a brand-new, fully functional production kitchen that can be seen from two stories above.

The lemon berry yogurt was one of the nicest ice creams I’ve ever experienced. Every bite screamed with vivid lemon and berry flavor – it tasted much better than it looked!

My friend had the turtle sundae, and even with all of the delectable toppings, the vanilla bean ice cream within was excellent on its own. We had a great time on their terrace. It’s definitely worth a visit!

Bar Cento

1948 W 25th St. // +1 216-274-1010

While Bar Cento offers fancier fare, like grilled octopus, dry-aged strip steak, or steamed mussels, this Ohio City pizzeria has won renown for the amazing pizza.

They serve plenty of interesting combinations, from the seaside pizza with garlic cream, mussels, calamari, scallops, shrimp, anchovies, and capers to the sunnyside pie with provolone, pancetta, eggs, and black pepper. Come hungry and order your own, because some things aren’t meant to be shared.

Another fun thing about this Italian eatery on West 25th—they have a club in the basement. So, once you’ve finished devouring your tasty pizza, you can head downstairs and dance it off!

SOHO Chicken & Whiskey

1889 W 25th St. // +1 216-298-9090

This classy little southern establishment serves all the fixin’s for a delicious meal. When I get homesick for my home state of Kentucky, I head over here for an Ale 8 ginger ale. Or, if I need something a little stronger, I order a bourbon-infused cocktail and indulge in some amazing fried chicken.

You could get the classic mornin’ dish with your standard chicken and waffles, the nooner, SOHO’s take on Nashville hot chicken, or dine there Wednesday night for the Chicken Pickin’. Every Wednesday, you can pick the pieces of delicious fried chicken you prefer, tell them how spicy you like it, and even add classic sides like mac n cheese, hammy collards, or deviled eggs. Also, you can pick from their array of very creative cocktails!

It’ll have you saying “y’all” the rest of the evening, all while wishing you were back on the “holler”.

Phnom Penh

1929 W 25th St. // +1 216-357-2951

If you’re craving Cambodian food, then there is nothing like Phnom Penh. Tucked between a middle-eastern deli and an architect studio, this place is not to be missed. With a huge menu featuring Cambodian classics like amok or green curry, you won’t leave hungry.

Get the chha kroeung, steamed rice with lime leaves, garlic, turmeric, galangal, lemongrass, red onions and peppers. After that first bite, you’ll feel transported to the charms of the Cambodian countryside.

West Side Market

1979 W 25th St.

Though definitely more a market than a restaurant, this immense place is full of food. Part farmer’s market, part food stands, you won’t go hungry wandering the many stalls of this eclectic market.

Head to the organic food stands in the fresh fruits and veggies section to see what’s in season. Then, explore inside the giant, yellow-bricked market complex. Upon entering, you’ll witness a cheese stand lady carving up her latest creations and a man stacking various meats and sausages in a glass case as the quiet echoes of voices across the way bounce off the high ceilings.

Here, you’ll find almost anything you desire: fresh pasta, creamy cheeses, pierogi stands, and even whole parts of animals. Aside from ingredients, food stands sell everything from macaroons to mochi, bratwursts, and even one of the best gyros in town.

Pro-tip: Be prepared to negotiate, and go near the end of the day for the best deals! We’ve been offered a plate of strawberries for only $5!

Market Avenue Wine Bar

2521 Market Ave. // +1 216-696-9463

Across from West Side Market along an adorable cobblestone street lined with street lamps, this wine bar serves amazing views with small plate goodies you can enjoy year-round.

Split the artisanal cheese plate and their amazing French Bordeaux. If you’re looking for a cute place for drinks after work with appetizers to share, this place is perfect.

Fast Casual Ohio City Restaurants

From burritos to soup and salads, you’re bound to find something on this list for a quick takeaway meal. Here are the best Ohio City restaurants for when you’re on the go.

Ohio City Burrito

1844 W 25th St. // +1 216-664-0908

Forget Chipotle! If you want the best burrito around, head to Ohio City Burrito. There, you can pile on the cilantro-lime rice, choice of black or refried beans, barbacoa, chorizo, tilapia, veggies, carnitas, or chicken tinga. Plus, top your burrito with cheese, lettuce, and one of their 6 salsas!

But if you’re not feeling like a burrito, try their 25th Street taco: double-layered refried beans sandwiching a fried and soft taco shell, your choice of meat and toppings. When you try that first bite, you’ll be amazed at how good this is. It’s so simple, yet so delicious.

Boaz Café

2549 Lorain Avenue // +1 216-458-9225

Wondering where to eat in Ohio city for lighter fare? Look no further than Boaz Café. Located right off of West 25th Street, this place is great for takeaway Mediterranean food.

Make your own Mediterranean bowl with green lentils or rice base. Then, pick your protein, add hummus or baba, and top it off with tons of veggies. If you want, you can also opt for their delicious falafel or hummus wraps. Don’t forget to grab a fresh fruit smoothie to wash it all down!

Souper Market

2528 Lorain Ave. // +1 216-737-7687

I mean… who doesn’t love soup, right? Whether you’re under the weather, it’s cold outside, or you just want some good ole comfort, do you really need a reason?

Souper Market is the place for hearty and delicious soups. From unique concoctions like the chicken paprikash soup to their Parmesan, potato, and kale soup, this place makes it fresh every day and serves new specials each week. Or, if you just want the classics, like chicken noodle or tomato, they’ve got you covered too.

Best Hidden Gems among Ohio City Restaurants

Some of the best Ohio City restaurants are hidden in plain sight. Though many are off Ohio City’s main drag and may require you to hunt them down, these restaurants are truly worth the search.

Johnny Mango

3120 Bridge Ave. // +1 216-575-1919

Serving eclectic fare like pad Thai AND burritos, Johnny Mango has earned its title as an Ohio City staple. Start with the surprisingly gooey and delicious vegan nachos, and then move on to the pad Thai. Pro-tip, add the fiery lime sauce on the side! When you pair all that with one of their famous, and huge, margaritas, you may be confused by the flavor combination. But, your stomach will love it!

Momocho

1835 Fulton Rd, Cleveland, OH 44113, United States // +12166942122

The Mod Mex restaurant by Chef Eric Williams is a colorful and exciting experience. Momocho, which aims to be a joyful and lively location, is to the suburbs what classic Tex-Mex restaurants are to the city’s Mexican specialties: a diverse selection of fascinating ingredients and flavors wrapped in an unconventional environment.

The layout creates a joyful environment for all events by fusing vibrant mosaics, eccentric artwork, and antiques across the nation.

The food was delicious. We started with a fantastic pecorino pepper guacamole. Next, we went to elote street style carrots, which were so delicious that we forgot we wanted elote corn on the cob.

The Chile relleno and flautas for entree were the best we’d ever eaten here or anywhere else. Both entrées were surrounded by various vegetables and/or sauces and were easily the best Mexican platters we’d ever tasted.

Another fantastic feature was the Tuesday tequila special drinks, where you could choose from around 25 different pours. We appreciated the Olmeca Altos Anejo, which our great server recommended.

I finished everything up with a creamy and delicious Chocobomba mousse. Excellent food, presentation, portion sizes, and outstanding service! I strongly advise you to visit it!

Le Petit Triangle Café

1881 Fulton Rd. // +1 216-281-1881

Want French fare, but don’t want to pay top dollar? This is your spot. To start, get the assiette du Fromage with three French kinds of cheese, crackers, fresh fruits, and currants.

Next, you could order the delicious and classic cassoulet or beef brisket and bourguignon, but some favorites here include the ratatouille crepe and the cheesy Croque monsieur.

This establishment is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. But no matter when you dine, save room for dessert. From sweet crepes to chocolate soufflé, this place is sure to please.

Larder Delicatessen and Bakery

1455 W 29th St, Cleveland, OH 44113, the United States // +12169128203

The Larder Delicatessen and Bakery is a beautiful small restaurant where you can have a tasty meal! The location is unique since it is housed in a former firehouse that has retained some of its original features.

Salads, sandwiches, hotdogs, and even desserts are available on the menu. If it’s Friday night, you should definitely try some of their delectable sweets!

I got the thick boi Italian, which was excellent. The focaccia bread appeared fresh and squishy, but it held up well against the three varieties of meats and slaw. The slaw had a tinge of spiciness and dimness, which gave it a hint of freshness.

My friend ordered the vegan tofu and mushroom sandwich, which she described as tasty and the best vegan sandwich she’d ever tasted.

They also have a selection of baked products and fries that looked fantastic. Overall, if you’re ever in Cleveland, I definitely recommend visiting them!

Banana Blossom

2800 Clinton Ave. // +1 216-696-5529

You don’t have to look far for amazing Thai cuisine in Ohio City. Banana Blossom has you covered with traditional Thai dishes like pad Thai, Tom Yum soup, and various curries. Be sure you come hungry because their portions are large!

So, grab yourself a Thai iced tea and prepare for you to get your taste buds amazed.

Heck’s Café

2927 Bridge Ave. // +1 216-861-5464

A Cleveland staple, this location in Ohio City has been around for years! First, start off with the most amazing baked brie in puff pastry and served with cherries and crackers. Even if you’re not an appetizer person, this is well worth a try!

And if you like salads, this is the place to get them. Here, they don’t settle for a chef salad that is basically iceberg lettuce and cheese. No, Heck’s Café does it right. The grapes and arugula salad come with everything and more, from candied almonds and goat cheese to molasses vinaigrette.

But, the fan-favorite (and we’re the fans) is the wild mushroom ravioli. Made with the famous Ohio City Pasta’s ravioli and combined with baby spinach, wild mushrooms, goat cheese sauce, and toast, it’ll definitely become your favorite too.

One neighborhood, so many amazing eateries. You don’t have to go far to find the best restaurants in Cleveland. Whether you prefer healthier fare or cuisines from across the world, Ohio City is the place to go for an amazing meal. Be sure to check out the Where to Eat in Cleveland post, which contains other amazing Ohio City restaurants we love, including The Black Pig, Jukebox, Momocho, and Great Lakes Brewing Company.

FAQ

What is Ohio city known for?

Most of Cleveland’s craft breweries are located in Ohio City, including Hansa Brewing, Market Garden Brewery, Nanobrew, Platform Beer, Saucy Brew Works, Bad Tom Smith Brewing, and the Great Lakes Brewing Company, Ohio’s first microbrewery.

Is Ohio city walkable?

Cleveland’s downtown is considered to be Cleveland’s most walkable district, with Ohio City coming in second. The West Side Market, Lutheran Hospital, and Saint Ignatius High School are important anchors in Ohio City, which is also noted for its diversity, historic housing stock, entrepreneurial energy, and devoted neighbors.

What is Cleveland, Ohio’s famous food?

The most well-known Cleveland foods include pierogi, Polish Boys, and paczki, brought by generations of Eastern European immigrants. A Polish Boy, not to be mistaken with a Louisiana Po’ Boy, is a local staple that consists of kielbasa sausage on a bun with coleslaw, french fries, and barbecue sauce.

Visiting the region? Check out our guide of the 10 Best Restaurants In Pittsburgh!

Which of these Ohio City restaurants do you most want to try? Let me know in the comments section below!

Nathan

Travel writer and owner of the blog. My work has been featured on Fodors, Eater.com, International Living, and Great Escape Publishing, among many others. My story? Nearly six years ago, I left my job at an Oklahoma City law firm and embarked on a journey around the world. At the time, I thought I would only be gone for 6 months, but the more I traveled, the longer my bucket list became. Flashpacker describes how I travel. Rather than traveling as the normal world wise backpacker and staying in hostel dorms, I prefer a more comfortable experience, and typically stay in private rooms, take Ubers instead of taxis, and now use a suitcase instead of a backpack. Foodie, on the other hand, describes one of the key reasons why I travel. I love to pick a central “base camp” and then explore the surrounding area, really immersing myself in the culture and interacting with the people, and enjoying and exploring the food of an area is an essential part of this experience.