Rachel's Caribbean - South Euclid Gem

UPDATED 6/24/2010 - Rachel's is out of business.  They will be missed.

I can not believe I have not written about Rachel's Caribbean yet. It is a perfect example of a Cleveland area hidden gem, great food, nice atmosphere and reasonable price located where almost everyone on the East side drives by and never notices. Rachel's is located at 14417 Cedar Road in South Euclid. It is part of a very small strip mall and is located in a narrow space between a Subway and a DO Summers. There is just a small sign up and no windows, so its easy to miss. While just a couple of miles away, Bahama Breeze has a huge place that serves mediocre food to lots of people, Rachel's provides superior food in a quiet and relaxed manner, so most Clevelanders don't even know it is there. Walking in you find a small dining room with a small bar up front. The room is done in a soothing blue with half wooden paneling. The walls have a number of Jamaican pictures, posters and carvings, but with the low lighting and the gentle reggae music, the feeling is very relaxing and low key. The tables are nicely set and there is a choice of tables or booths. Once you settle in you can get a beer, wine or one of Rachel's Caribbean specialties, which are quite tasty and fairly strong. The menu is not extensive, but has a nice variety of really well prepared food, including salads, fish and seafood, Jerk Chicken and other island specialties. Portions are large and cooked fresh to order, presented simply and most importantly, taste good. One of my favorites, especially to get for takeout on the way home, is the fish sandwich. A big fillet of Talapia is either fried or blackened and then served on a fresh bun, topped with cheese and a home made sauce with lettuce and tomato. Sided with Rachel's red cabbage slaw and your choice of regular or sweet potato fries (get the sweet potato, they are fabulous), this provides a full meal at about $9. The fish is always well prepared and the sweet potato fries are crispy and flavorful. The last time I was in I had the Cilantro Shrimp. Large tiger shrimp are perfectly cooked and then covered in a bright Cilantro sauce. Sided with a large portion of the rice and fresh vegetables, it was very good and a bit different then anything I have had in Cleveland. Overall I have found Rachel's food to be excellent, with careful preparation, large portions and reasonable prices. Combine that with the laid back atmosphere and good friendly service and you have a definite winner in my book. With Winter weather on its way, we all need an occasional break; if you are feeling like you need a quick dose of the Caribbean, head over to South Euclid and get some excellent food at a reasonable price.