Update, Thank You and Index

I just wanted to thank everyone who stops by and reads my reviews. I hope they are helpful and fun. I have had a really good time on going out eating and writing about the places I like and the ones I find. I plan on keeping this going and as the weather improves the motorcycle will come out and I will be heading out and about to find new places and visit some favorites. With the economy the way it is I plan on spotlighting value where I can.

I especially want to thank anyone who left a comment, they are much appreciated and very welcome. Feel free to let me know if I am right, wrong or you just have a different opinion.

Also just leave a comment or drop me a line if you have a suggestion for a place I should check out, if there is an update to one of the places I have reviewed or if you just want to see your words up on the web.

If you like the site and the reviews let your friends and family know, I love to promote the local places and foods that help make Cleveland what it is, the more people we get away from all the chain restaurants, the better.

I have put together an index to the reviews I have done so far sorted by geographic area to make it easier to find what you are looking for.

REVIEWS INDEX:

Posts marked with * and the color purple are my personal favorites.

East Side:

Alescis (Italian Market) – South Euclid http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2009/02/alescis-italian-market.html

Caballo Bayo (Mexican) – Chagrin Falls http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/11/caballo-bayo-chagrin-falls-mexican.html

Cowboy Food and Drink (BBQ) – Bainbridge http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/05/cowboy-food-drink-chagrin-falls.html and http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/06/cowboy-food-update.html

DiBella’s Subs (Sandwiches) – Warrensville Heights & Solon http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/05/dibellas-subs.html

Fat Taco (Mexican) – Bainbridge http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/06/fat-taco-bainbridge-mexican.html

Grums Subs (Sandwiches) – Cleveland Heights (Coventry and Solon) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2009/02/grums-sub-shop-solon.html

Jacks Deli (Deli) – South Euclid http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/10/jacks-deli.html

Jerusalem Grill (Kosher Middle Eastern) – South Euclid http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/11/jerusalem-grill-falafel-hot-spot.html

Lopez (Mexican) – Cleveland Heights http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/06/lopez-mexican-food-hunt-continues.html

* Miles Market (Produce and Prepared Food) – Solon http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2009/01/miles-market-produce-treasure-trove.html

Rachel’s Caribbean (Caribbean) – South Euclid http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/11/rachels-caribbean-south-euclid-gem.html

** Richie Chans (Chinese) – Cleveland Heights http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/04/richie-chans-hidden-gem.html

Rosatis Custard (Frozen Custard) – Twinsburg http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/07/rosatis-custard.html

*** Shuhei Restaurant of Japan (Japanese and Sushi) – Beachwood http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/07/shuhei-best-restaurant-ever.html

West Side:

Agave Tanqueria (Mexican) – Oberlin http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/11/agave-oberlin-tanqueria.html

*** Melt Bar and Grilled (Bar Food) – Lakewood http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/05/melt-lakewoods-best.html and http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/08/melt-update.html

El Tango Tanquira (Mexican) – Lakewood http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/06/el-tango-tanquira-another-lakewood-find.html

Watami Japanese Buffet (Japanese and Sushi) – Parma http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/07/watami-and-yellowtail-japanese-buffets.html

Cleveland:

Aladdin Baking Company (Pita and Middle Eastern) – Cleveland (Gateway) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2009/02/aladdin-baking-company-store.html

Bar Cento (Italian) – Cleveland (Ohio City) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/08/bar-cento-ohio-city-hot-spot.html

Bo Loong (Chinese and Dim Sum) – Cleveland (Asiatown) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2009/01/bo-loong-asia-town-mainstay.html

* Mama Santa’s (Italian and Pizza) – Cleveland (Little Italy) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2009/01/mama-santas-heart-of-little-italy.html

Mi Pueblo (Mexican) – Cleveland (University Circle and West Side) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/06/mi-pueblo-hunt-for-good-inexpensive.html

* Nate’s Deli and Restaurant (Deli and Middle Eastern) – Cleveland (Ohio City) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2009/02/nates-deli-restaurant-ohio-city.html

** Phnom Penh (Cambodian) – Cleveland (West Side and Ohio City) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2009/01/phnom-penh-cambodian-treat.htm

*** Seoul Hot Pot (Korean) – Cleveland (Asiatown) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/06/seoul-hot-pot-can-not-miss.html

Sokolowskis University Inn (Polish and Traditional) – Cleveland (Tremont) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/10/sokolowskis-university-inn-cleveland.html

Westside Market Café (Eclectic) – Cleveland (Ohio City) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/09/westside-market-cafe-great-breakfast.html

Wonton Gourmet BBQ (Chinese) – Cleveland (Asiatown) http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/06/wonton-gourmet-bbq-asiatown-hidden-gem.html

Lake County and East:

Ballantine (Gastropub) – Willoughby http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/12/ballantine-willoughby-gastropub.html

Burgers-N-Beer- Breakfast (Bar Food and Breakfast) – Willoughby http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/10/burgers-n-beer-breakfast-willoughby.html

Jalapeno Loco (Mexican) – Mentor http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/06/jalapeno-loco-mentor-hunt-continues.html

Kirkland Tavern (Bar Food and Italian) – Kirkland http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/04/great-bar-food-kirtland-city-tavern.html

** Madsen Donuts (Donuts) – Geneva on the Lake http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/08/madsen-donuts-yummy.html

Mama Robertos (Italian) – Mentor http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/08/mama-robertos-mentor-italian-good-food.html

** Piero’s Pasta House (Italian) – Geneva on the Lake http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/07/pieros-pasta-house-geneva-gem.html

South:

Agaves (Mexican) – Northfield Center http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/07/agave-very-good-mexican-restaurant.html and http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2009/01/agaves-northfield-center-gone.html (CLOSED)

Los Gallos (Mexican) – Bedford http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/07/los-gallos-bedford-mexican.html

Noisy Oyster (Seafood and Bar Food) – Akron/Cuyahoga Valley http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/04/noisy-oyster-akron-in-valley.html

Rosatis Custard (Frozen Custard) – Northfield Center http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/07/rosatis-custard.html

Yellowtail Buffet (Japanese and Sushi Buffet) – Fairlawn http://c-towneats.blogspot.com/2008/07/watami-and-yellowtail-japanese-buffets.html

Nate's Deli & Restaurant - Ohio City Institution

Most restaurants today want to be cutting edge and trendy, but there is a place for restaurants that buck that trend, places that have not changed over the years and go about their business serving good food simply and at reasonable prices; Nate's Deli & Restaurant is a a local favorite for just these reasons. This is a place that serves good basic well prepared food. When I need some good Middle-Eastern food cheap it tops the list. Nestled just down the street from the West Side Market at 1932 West 25th Street, Nate's is underwhelming from the outside looking a bit run down from the front. If you park in the parking lot in back and enter through the kitchen you get a chance to see how clean they keep things. Once inside you have a shotgun of a restaurant with booths on one side and tables closely spaced together on the other, there are a couple of small tables in the front display windows. While very clean and attempts have been made to warm up Nate's it still feels a bit crowded and dull, especially because the few colors that have been used are a very muted. But going to Nate's is not about decor its about food. Although the menu features a full deli side, I go to Nate's for the Middle-Eastern side of the menu, most times getting the same thing, a falafel roll sandwich and a half order of baba ganoush. The falafel is a bit simpler than most, just falafel balls rolled with lettuce, tomato and tahini in a pita. What makes it work is that the falafel are excellent, well spiced and lightly fried and then well balanced with the other ingredients. By using a large pita and rolling the sandwich, you don't have the problem of some falafels were the pita gets soggy and overstuffed. The baba ganoush is also very good, with a smooth texture and a nice balance between the roasted eggplant, the tahinin and the lemon. Served simply with a topping of olive oil, parsley and a little paprika and two large pitas to scoop into it, you couldn't ask for much more. But of course at Nate's there is more, since you get a side dish of pepperocininis and pickled radishes to munch along with your food. The pickled radishes are the real treat, with their bright pink color, mild flavor and just the right amount of crunch. Nate's service is very fast and the food is consistently good, with prices for the falafel at $3.00 and the half order of Baba at $2.95 this is very affordable. A couple other things to know about Nate's, they are only open till 5:30pm on weekdays, 4:30pm on Saturdays and closed on Sundays. Cash only, so no charge cards. Also take note of the little number on your table, when you are done you go to the register and give them the number and they will have the check. Nate's has been there seemingly forever, with good reason, they serve very good Middle-Eastern food at low prices and you can get in and out very quickly.

Alesci's Italian Market

Located at 4333 Mayfield Road in South Euclid, Alesci's has been an oasis of good Italian food for decades. One of a number of family owned stores scattered about the area; I know that there are separate stores in Solon and Euclid; the South Euclid store is the flagship with a large selection and good food. Alesci's has a deli and cheese counter that runs the full length of the store, if you cannot find something to like here, you are just not looking. In the back of the store is the hot food section, with pizza slices and other Italian specialties for you to select. The bakery section is on the other wall of the store, with good bread and some decent pastries. The middle of the store has the pastas, sauces, spices and other Italian goodies. My main reason for hitting Alesci's on a regular basis is the fresh pizza dough in the back cooler. Usually priced at 3 or 4 for $1.00, this is the basis of great homemade pizzas. Pick up a small can of pizza sauce at about $.60 which is enough for two pizzas and add some cheese and toppings and you have a great, inexpensive meal to make at home. When working with the dough, it is best if you can leave it at room temperature for a while to let it rise. Then a light dusting of flour and you can toss and spread the dough to the size you want. I use about half of the small can of sauce and add some garlic and basil, top with some cheese and bake for about 20 minutes in a 425 degree oven and the biggest problem is not eating the whole pizza in a single sitting. If you want to go the white pizza method, spread some good olive oil on the dough, add some garlic and herbs and top with the cheese.

Aladdin Baking Company Store

Aladdin Bakery's store may not contain 1001 thieves, but there is some treasure to be found here. Most of the the outlet and factory stores around now are just marketing tools, I long for the days when such stores were located at the factory; well Aladdin Bakery Company at 1301 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland Ohio provides exactly that. Located between Progressive Field and the Wolstein Center, Aladdin has been there a lot longer. When I am in the area, I will stop by and stock up on pitas, and the selection here is staggering. You will find pitas in different sizes, styles and flavors. The best deal is usually stacked up and when I was down last week, these were bags of large pitas for $1.20 each. In addition to the pitas, the store offers a wide variety of middle east foods and spices. You can stock up on anything you need for your middle eastern feast. Finally, Aladdin offers a very nice menu of middle eastern foods at incredibly reasonable prices, with stuffed pies, such as spinach, cheese or meat; pita pizzas; stuffed sandwiches including a very good falafel, gyros and chicken shwarma; and salads such as humus and baba ganoush. You can finish it off with a desert from the bakery selection which includes a variety of baklava and cookies. The atmosphere is a bit grubby and there is no place to eat, but if you want to pick up something fast, tasty and affordable, Aladdin is a great stop downtown or on your way to a game.

Grums Sub Shop - Solon

Grums Subs Shop has been a mainstay of Coventry for what seems like forever. Located in a small takeout only store near the corner of Coventry and Mayfield Roads, the shop has supplied high quality subs for generations. Now those who don't get down to Coventry can enjoy these great subs, since Grums has opened a new location at 28500 Miles Road in Solon in the new shopping center next to Miles Market. Grums seems to favor corner stores as it has taken over the space briefly occupied by the revival of Harvey's BBQ. As opposed to the Coventry store, the Solon's Grums, is plain with none of the atmosphere of the original store, which features alot of brick and wood, along with flyers and other signs of the area. The Solon store, while curently a bit vanilla does provide for seating and is clean and functional, hopefully over time they will add some decor. For those who have not had a Grums Sub, these are excellent subs made with high quality ingredients. In comparing them to the national chains, you will find that there are fewer choices and the prices seem higher, but you get value and quality for your money. First lets talk bread; Grums uses large crusty loaves, that are about twice the width of most place, providing a perfect canvas on which to prepare the sandwhich. Because of their size, a half sandwhich at Grums is about the same as a footlong at Subway or its ilk. I usually get the Seagrum, which has Tuna, Mayo, Lettuce, Tomato and Provolone Cheese. Everything is very fresh and with high quality and taste being the key. Grums offers a full menu of hot and cold subs, salads and a couple of extras. When you get tired of bland foods quickly thrown together and want a real quality sub sandwich head over to Grums and see what a real sandwhich should be, it may not be the cheapest, but certain things are worth paying a little bit more for.

Mama Santa's - Heart of Little Italy

Looking back over the past entries it is hard to believe that I haven't reviewed Mama Santa's, one of my late Dad's favorites. Located in the middle of Cleveland's Little Italy, at 12301 Mayfield Road, Mama Santa's has been dishing up very good Sicilian Italian food at incredibly reasonable prices for decades. As the rest of Little Italy has changed, with new restaurants, and even new digs for such old school places as Corbo's and Pristi's, Mama Santa's has remained the same, serving traditional food in a nice dimly lit restaurant. While the restaurant may not be a stunner, it has a certain old time charm. Instead of trying to get a retro feel, Mama Santa's has just kept the same decor through out its long tenure on the Cleveland scene, which is just the way it should be. Walking in today feels like it has since at least the 1970s when I was a kid, almost like going back to your parents house. The nice part about the decor is that it never was very trendy or hip to begin with, so that over time it has aged well. In addition to not changing the decor, the menu has pretty much remained the same for all those years as well. There have been some price increases, but even those have been few. Prices range mostly below $10 and the portions are good without being overly large. If you ask people in Cleveland about Mama Santa's there is almost always an argument about the pizza, some love it, others hate it. I fall on the love side, but understand the other side. The dough is thin, without being so thin that it cannot hold up the cheese, with a good crust around the outside. The sauce is obviously home made and has enough zip to keep things interesting, the cheese is a nice layer, and while it tends to end up a bit greasy, I personally like my pizza that way. Toppings are limited, to the classics: sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, green peppers and anchovies. The one thing I will agree with most is that Mama Santa's does have a tendency to overook the pizza. Overall this is one of the most authentic and tasty pizzas you will find in the area. I especially like to pick one up if I am heading home from downtown at the right time. At $7.50 for a large it is a great deal and a welcome relief from bland middle of the road chain pizzas. The rest of the menu is fairly simple, with sandwiches, pastas (both regular and home made) and some veal and chicken entrees. My father loved the Veal Scallopini, nice sized pieces of Veal in a tomato sauce with onions and peppers. The pasta sauces are good traditional sauces, with real herbs and seasonings slow cooked into the kind of goodness that cannot be rushed. The food is served simply and tastes good, what more could you ask for. A couple of things to keep in mind; Mama Santa's is closed on Sundays and since they are at E.123rd and Mayfield, it is very difficult to find parking most nights. Despite that going there is a trip worth making, you will not find fancy decor or modern food trends, but you will get really good food, cooked well at very affordable prices. Mama Santa's is an especially good place to get a meal for East siders headed to or from Downtown.

Phnom Penh - Cambodian Treat

In looking back over my blog I cannot believe that I haven't done an entry on Phnom Penh. This is one of Cleveland's great gems, I wish I could call say that it is hidden, but considering it is consistently highly rated in the Zagat guide and has had any number of great reviews, all I can claim is that I was an early customer. I started going to PP in the early 90s when it was a really small place on Madison near W.117th Street. Back then, the whole restaurant was 3 tables around a home made counter that held the kitchen. The best part was walking in when they were cooking and the wave of smells and flavors would wash over you. Since that time, PP has moved to 13124 Lorain Ave Cleveland, Oh 44111 and fairly recently opened its new location at 1929 W25th Cleveland, Oh 44113 close to the West Side Market. Although the ownership has changed, the recipes and preparations continue to be very consistent and good. The two locations have different atmospheres; the Lorain Avenue location is a nice space with a friendly Asian feel to it, the W.25th street location is a little more atmospheric with high ceilings, mood lighting and wonderfully complex wooden carvings decorating the room. The menu is the same at both locations, so decide if you want friendly or romantic and proceed accordingly. The menu is a thing of wonder, with page after page of wonderful dishes. For those unfamiliar with Cambodian food it ranges from Vietnamese to Thai style dishes, not unexpected if you see that those are the two bordering countries. Most of the dishes are presented with a description of the basic dish and then the protein choices below. My all time favorite is the Shrimp Pad Thai made by PP. The bright red rice noodles are stir fried with bean sprouts, shrimp and picked cabbage and then topped with crushed peanuts. The flavors are vibrant and pungent, with plenty of heat (you can of course order your own level of spiciness). I love getting this dish hot and then adding some of the thick hoison sauce on the table to mellow it just slightly. At about $7.50 an order, this remains one of the best values in town. Among the other items I have enjoyed over the years is the Cambodian Shrimp Salad, a cold salad with chilled shrimp in a light sweet vinegar dressing. The fish cakes appetizer are small fairly dense cakes with an interesting flavor combination. The stirred roasted eggplant dish (ordered without the pork) is an interesting and tasty thick paste served over rice. There are any number of different noodle dishes, in addition to the Pad Thai. My second favorite would be the shrimp Loath Chha, short almost dumpling like noodles in a milder sauce are comforting and always good. Although there are a number of higher priced items on the menu, most of the menu is under $10. PP does not have a liquor license, but they do allow you to bring in your own beer or wine. In addition, they do not take checks or credit cards, so make sure you have enough cash. PP is one of my favorite restaurants; they have managed to keep the food tasting great while holding the line on prices. Service is usually good, although the few servers they have can get a bit behind when they are busy. If you are on the West Side or in Ohio City, you should consider giving them a try, you will find wonderful food at a good price.

Miles Market - Produce Treasure Trove

With the combination of the winter weather and the bad economy I admit that I am not getting out as much as I would like, and especially I am not getting to roam about and discover new places. So I thought I would do some blogs on some of my favorite places, especially places that you can get a good deal on the food. Cleveland is blessed with some very good markets; you have the West Side Market, during the summer you have the assorted farmers markets around town, but the place that I go to most consistently for my fruits and veggies is Miles Market. Located at 28569 Miles Road in Solon, the market has been expanded over the years, now it has produce, wine and beer, bakery, deli, meats, seafood, prepared food and just about anything else you could want to prepare a meal. Lets start with the main reason that I go to MM, the produce. MM is one of the major distributors of produce in the area, so that means that the fruits and vegetables that you get at MM is some of the best and freshest you will find. The selection is excellent, with a good variety and I like that most of the produce is not prepackaged, you get to pick what buy. Being a single guy, I will buy produce and use it over a week or two. One thing I have found is that the produce from MM seems to stay fresh longer then that purchased from other vendors. Generally the prices are good with the weekly specials being very good. In addition, you will often find unadvertised specials in the market. Going through the aisle of natures bounty, you should be inspired to create some wonderful dishes. The bakery at MM is very good, with wonderful baked goods and breads. The prices are not cheap, but you do get a quality product well prepared and nicely decorated. Generally MM will have a muffin, bread and pie special each week. The deli, butcher and fish sections are well stocked and offer fine selections of products. You may not get the cheapest products here, but you will get quality and freshness. The prepared foods section is also very good. MM offers both fully cooked foods, including the new seafood section of the olive bar and ready to cook selections. It is well worth considering picking up a dinner here to have a restaurant quality meal without paying all the extras such as tax and tip. I strongly recommend Miles Market, it offers a wide selection of very high quality foods at reasonable prices. This is a true example of the difference between value and cheap. You will find places that offer cheaper prices, but you probably won't get the same quality. True value is when you get good or great quality at a reasonable price.

Bo Loong - Asia town mainstay

Well it was time for a dim sum fix and since Tom's Seafood is no longer doing the $8 all you can eat Dim Sum, I figured that we would go back to Bo Loong and see what they are offering. Located at 3922 Saint Clair Ave NE Cleveland, OH 44114, Bo Loong has been a mainstay of Cleveland's China/Asiatown for quite a while. Located between a gas station and a warehouse just East of the train tracks bridge, the outside is a bit restrained and offers only limited parking which will usually be filled all too fast. Once inside Bo Loong has two large rooms with traditional Chinese decor; of note is the large wooden sculpture and the number of fish tanks, some of which contain decorative fish, others which offer seafood to order. This trip the decor seems to be showing its age with the room feeling a bit old and musty, but it is familar and the food is still excellent. Some will feel that Bo Loong looks a bit outdated, but it does offer plenty of seating and an atmospere that I enjoy. Once seated, on Saturday and Sunday lunch time you are presented with a number of carts containing dim sum, small orders of various meats, foul, seafood and vegetables wonderfully prepared and then either fried, baked or most often steamed. Each order is usually in the $2-3 range, so the best idea is to bring a group and share a lot of different items. It can be a bit of an adventure since you are not always sure what is in each item, but the women bringing around the carts will help guide you through the items. Among the highlights this trip were the har gua, which are simple shrimp dumplings in a steamed starch wrapper that were light, flavorful and just the right hint of sesame oil; the shrimp rolls which have shrimp wrapped in a wide starch noodle and then steamed; and a tofu wrapper around vegetables that packed just the right combination of flavor and texture. The table also really enjoyed the chicken shumei, the steamed meatballs, potstickers and the baked bbq pork buns. To finish the meal we went with the steamed custards, which are slightly sweet egg custards in a light flakey pie shell, delicious and the perfect end for the meal. All told the bill came to about $9 per person and we had a wonderful time. In addition Bo Loong also offers an extensive menu of well prepared Chinese foods. The menu is primarily Cantonese, so if you want hot and spicey you will have to add some of the hot chili oil, but they have been one of the best and most consistent Chinese restaurants in Cleveland for years. Among my favorites on the menu are the clams in black bean sauce and the Shrimp Pan Fried Noodles. Bo Loong is open late and is a great place to get a late night or holiday meal since it seems they are open every day of the year. With a large Asian clientel along with many Ocidentals, Bo Loong can be one of the busier restaurants in town. A unsual adventure is to head down late on the weekend when you will often find that Karoke is going on and the place is full. If you have been to Bo Loong before, it is still the same great Chinese Restaurant, if you haven't been, it is time to venture downtown and see what you have been missing.

Agaves - Northfield Center - Gone

First let me wish everyone a healthy and happy New Year. Just a quick update to say that I was in the Northfield Center area and drove by the center where Agaves is located and it looks like it is out of business. Kind of sad, but that is what happens.

Ballantine - Willoughby Gastropub

We took a group out to Willoughby to check out Ballantine. Willoughby has become a center for good dining on the far East side with a nice mix of upscale and dive restaurants in a charming downtown. I have heard quite a few good things about Ballantine and the food, but that there has been a lot of turnover and changes since it first opened. It seems that they have finally settled on a directions, since since it was originally billed as a gastropub, but the current menu describes it as a Pizzeria and Bier Bar. In addition the couple of website links I can find for it are dead. What we found was very good food and an appealing upscale atmosphere. You get a feel for the place even before walking in as the front wall of windows shows an inviting upscale atmosphere with lots of dark wood and pools of light. As you walk in you see seating at a counter by the kitchen/pizza oven, also a long well stocked bar and a number of tables in a dark room. Seated at one of the high tables along the wall we had a view of several flat screens showing sports (in our case a Cavs game). Oil lamps on the tables add atmosphere if not illumination. The menu features a number of good sounding Neapolitan (thin crust) pizzas ranging from $8 to $12. The starters have some real winners and I decided to go with splitting the Lobster Mac and Cheese and an order of the Calamari. The Mac and Cheese was excellent with pasta shells in a wonderful cheesy becarmel sauce with a good portion of Lobster meat. The portion was good if not huge, but the flavors were wonderful, I would probably have the Mac and Cheese without the Lobster next time as it didn't add that much to the flavor. The Calamari was also good, sauted in a light crust with a bit of heat and some nice contrast from the onions and capers. Prices were ok with the Mac and Cheese going for $8 plus $4 for the Lobster, the Calamari was $9. Others at the table had the entrees $15 - $20, which were nice portions and included your choice of 2 sides. Beyond the Mac and Cheese, I did hear that the Rissoto and the spinach were both good. Food comes presented in large white modern plates and bowls and the look is very nice. Ballantine also features an extensive beer menu, including several beer flights, which allow you to sample several different draft beers. Overall, Ballantine seems to have found its niche, well prepared and presented food and drink presented in a warm upscale atmospere. If you are heading for an evening out, give them a try. The dinners

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.

Caballo Bayo - Chagrin Falls Mexican

UPDATED 6/24/2010 - I was by Caballo Bayo and apparently they are out of business.

With the election finally over, good weather and cheap gas prices, it was hard not to get on the motorcycle at lunch time and just keep going, but instead rode out to Chagrin Falls to try a new Mexican Restaurant, Caballo Bayo. Located at 504 East Washington Street, just past the Chagrin Falls High School, CB looks like a very small place from the front, but appearance are deceiving. Once you get inside there is a large bar to the left and a couple of dining rooms all nicely decorated with sunny yellow walls with Mexican Style paintings and appropriate decorations. The decoration is limited and you don't get the feeling of being overwhelmed as in some Mexican Restaurants. The tables and chairs are nice and substantial, the tables set with cloth napkins and silverware. Of course the chips and salsa quickly arrive. The chips are hot and fresh, the salsa nice if a bit tame, although a little kick does sneak in. My waitress brought me some of the chipolte salsa which had much more of a kick. The menu is extensive and the dinner prices seem a little higher then most Cleveland Mexican Restaurants. At lunch however the specials are very affordable and turned out to be a great value. I ordered the lunch special No. 1 which is described as a Chili Relleno, Taco, Beans and Guacomle Salad. Expecting to get a nice portion, I was shocked when my waitress brought two long plates, one had a good sized Chili Relleno and a large portion of refried beans the other plate had the taco and a large salad of shredded lettuce with a very generous portion of guacamole on top. The waitress caught that I had received the wrong taco and quickly had the kitchen fix the problem - good job. The chili relleno was well prepared and flavorful, in this case the pepper was cooked without any batter, a bit lighter and it allows some of the melted cheese to escape, but very nice. About the only problem I had was that this was a bit mild, but that happens when dealing with fresh peppers, some are hotter then others. The beans were also good with a nice creamy texture and a mild flavor. The guacamole salad was very good, very fresh aith the creamy smoothness of the avacodos contrated with the small bits of vegetables mixed in. The highlight of the meal was the Shrimp Taco; this was excellent. The medium sized shrimp were very well cooked and put into a fresh taco shell with some sauteed pepper and onions and then topped with cheese. Think of this as a mini Shrimp Fajitas. Service was very good, with my water glass refilled several times and an appropriate amount of attention. They seem to be going a little more upscale here without losing a casual feel; this seems to work and I will be checking them out in the future. I left more than full, and that is with leaving half the chip basket uneaten. If the entrees are as good as the food I have this could be a real winner. Head out East and check them out, especially during lunch time.

Jerusalem Grill - Falafel Hot Spot

One of my favorite foods is Falafel. When done right, it is the perfect vegetarian food, a wonderful mix of vegetables, fried balls and creamy sauce all nestled in a pita. So I had the yen for one the other day, and since it was a Monday I remembered that Jerusalem Grill near my house does a special with a full falafel and a can of pop for $4.99. Turns out to be a very good deal. Jerusalem Cafe at 14421 Cedar Rd S. Euclid, Ohio 44121 is located in one of the small shopping centers at the corners of Cedar and Green. A Kosher restaurant that serves meat (so no dairy is allowed), Jerusalem has falafel, shwarma (think gyro), hamburgers, chicken and middle eastern salads. The restaurant is a store front with tables up front and then a deli case and counter in back where all the food is prepared. They have at least tried to make the place look a bit nicer by painting the walls and decorating. Even if you don't keep Kosher or are not even Jewish, you should feel right at home. But the real question is how is the Falafel. Overall I found this to be one of the better Falafels in town. The falafel balls are prepared fresh to order, with the chickpea batter fried just about right. The texture is good, if a little heavy, with the outside crisp and the inside firm. Taste is good, if a little light on seasoning to my taste. However the rest of the sandwich more then made up for that; the Isreali Salad was crisp and fresh, the purple cabbage just a slight bit tart. Add on the Tahini and Shug (green hot sauce) and you have a fine combination of flavors that tickle the tounge. The pita was good and fresh, if a little undersized to handle all of the stuffings, in the end this was a bit messy to eat by hand, but that can be a good problem as long as you have a fork handy. So I know what will become a regular option on Mondays and any other day when I have a hankering for a Falafel, just down the street to Jerusalem Grill

Agave - Oberlin Tanqueria

With the good weather this last weekend a little road trip on the motorcycle to try to find some good food sounded like a good idea, so I headed West to Oberlin, Ohio to see what a nice liberal college town would have to offer. On the main square at 19 W College St, Oberlin, OH 44074 I found Agave Burrito Bar and Tanqueria. For those familar with Chipolte or the late lamented Que Tal, you know the basic set up, you order a burrito, plate or salad and then tell the person what items you want off the steam table, however Agave presents some very good and very high quality choices. I had a vegetarian burrito in a spinach tortilla. For $6.50 I got a giant burrito stuffed with rice, beans, roast veggies, sweet potato puree, lettuce, cheese, guacamole, salsa and a couple of their sauces. In addition to the usual items, you will have choices like the sweet potato puree and a couple of home made sauces. I believe they had a tomatillo cream, a red pepper sauce and another one. Overall, this was one of the more tasty burritos I have had in a while and well worth the price. All of the items were excellent and the salsas had some real zing to them and contrasted nicely with the velvety guacamole. It was also nice to get distinctive flavors from each item. I wanted to try the Chipolte Pecan Brownie for desert, but they were out. Maybe next time. Decor is nice, with a number of Mexican masks on the wall and cacti and succulents in the front window with some warm earthtone walls. A very nice, relaxed place with food made from scratch and seasoned well. Agave also has beer and a small bar selection, so you can wet your whistle. If you are out Oberlin way and looking for a good quick meal, give Agave a try.

Jack's Deli

For me going to the Deli is one of the lower choices on the food spectrum, not that I don't enjoy it, but most of the things that I would eat at the deli, I can have at home for a lot cheaper. But I decided to at least give Jacks a try for breakfast, especially because it is very near my house. Now, on the East Side of Cleveland, there are two basic choices for Deli; Jacks and Corky & Lenny's. Jacks is a bit smaller and seems a bit friendlier. Located at 14490 Cedar Road, University Heights (I know you think this is Beachwood, but the little shopping center is in University Heights). In its new home around the corner from its original location, Jacks presents a clean modern dining room; nice, but noting noteworthy. I will say that on Sunday morning it was busy, but I got a table right away. The breakfast menu is what you would expect, eggs, pancakes and waffles. The nice part is that you have several additional choices to add to your eggs, such as Lox, Corned Beef and Pastrami, if you so choose. There are breakfast specials available before 11:00am, which adds a small charge onto a menu item, but provides coffee or tea and a small juice. I ended up getting the 2 eggs over medium with cottage fries and a bagel. The eggs were well cooked and not greasy, the large side of cottage fries were excellent and the fresh dill pickel (available on request) was just the way I like it, crisp with just a hint of dill and garlic. Overall a good value considering the juice and tea. Looking at Jacks menu, you will notice that while the prices aren't cheap, they try to give you value for your money. As an example, the Deli sandwhiches come with a side of potato salad or coleslaw. Service was good and the place is clean and convenient. About the only downside is the parking is mainly behind the old location, so you may have a short walk to and from your car. If you have an urge for some good deli, Jacks is the place to head on the East Side.

Burgers -N-Beer Breakfast - Willoughby Delicious Dive

A place called Burgers N Beer would seem to be problematic for me; after all I haven't eaten meat in over 30 years, so the Burgers are out, and as tempting as a good draft might be I do not drink when I am out on the motorcycle; but thankfully they did tack on Breakfast at the end of the sign. I am always looking for good breakfast places, you know the kind of place that gives a good sized breakfast at a reasonable price. Especially for Sunday mornings; I don't know why I will usually not eat breakfast all week and then come Sunday, time for a full breakfast. Located at 4027 Erie St. Willoughby, Ohio 44094, right near the intersection with Route 20, BNBB is housed in an old building, with the front of the building underwhelming, almost uninviting. Once inside however you are presented with a nice two room restauraunt/bar done up in vintage European posters, and other knick nacks. The theme even goes to the tables, with posters laminated onto them. The place has a cozy, dive like atmosphere, partially coming from the dark ceiling. The menu is the usual collection of eggs, pancakes, French Toast and the usual go alongs. You will notice that the prices are very reasonable and that they actually offer a good number of different combinations. I did a couple of pancakes with 2 eggs over medium and added a side of homefries. The pancakes were outstanding, with 2 very large and pretty thick pancakes well cooked and very flavorful. The eggs were cooked just right and not at all greasy and the homefries were also very good, with thin slices of potato cooked until crispy on the grill. I have heard that their burgers are very good and having had the fish sandwich, I can say the portion sizes are large, with sandwiches served on large slices of garlic bread. Burgers N Beer Breakfast may not have the most original or catchy name, but it is a cool place to hang out and get some good grub at a very reasonable price, so if you are over Willoughby way, check them out.

Sokolowski's University Inn - The Cleveland Classic

I have been trying to get down to Tremont and Sokolowski's for a while, so last Friday, I headed downtown to check it out. For those who don't know about Sokolowski's, and if you are from Cleveland that is hard to believe, it is one of the last holdovers from what Tremont used to be before it went upscale. Sokolowski's is located at the very edge of Tremont, under the I-90 in an old brick building at 1201 University Rd. Cleveland, OH 44113. Open since 1923, food is served Cafeteria style, with you taking a tray, silverwear and then picking and choosing as you head down the line. Dinner is served Friday and Saturday only, with Fish and Seafood specials abounding on Fridays. Faced with a choice, I went for the classic baked Scrod, which was a large portion of the fish, breaded and then baked served with 2 sides, roll and salad. I went with the corn (just average) and paid the extra $.50 for the pirogies which were excellent. Of note is the small salad bar that comes with all the meals, since it includes very good potato salad and an excellent cukes and onions. The portion sizes were big, with plenty of food for the money and the food quality was very good. This is not a place to get cutting edge food stylings, but if you want good food prepared in a classic way, like grandma use to do it, this is the place. The atmosphere is very casual, with a number of different rooms, all covered with genuine Cleveland memorabilia, especially from the Browns, Indians and Cavs everywhere you look. There is also a bar, and beer and wine is available. The bottom line, if you have been to Sokolowski's before, it hasn't changed and you should make a point to get back; if you have never been before, this is one of the keys to true Cleveland Cuisine and you need to check it out. Nothing fancy, but definately good and filling.