Introduction
Cleveland’s culinary scene is exploding, and that includes its incredible bar food. Forget the stuffy white tablecloths and exorbitant prices; sometimes, all you need is a cold local brew and some seriously satisfying bar grub. Cleveland delivers, with a bar food scene that’s far more diverse and delicious than you might expect. From classic wings slathered in signature sauces to inventive gourmet burgers and internationally inspired small plates, the city’s bars are serving up dishes that rival many of its finest restaurants. This guide highlights the best bars in Cleveland serving up unforgettable dishes that go far beyond your average pub fare, ensuring your next bar crawl is a delicious adventure.
What Makes a Great Bar Food Spot in Cleveland?
Before we dive into the mouthwatering details, let’s talk about what elevates a bar from just a place to grab a drink to a true destination for exceptional food. It’s not just about slapping some cheese on nachos; it’s about a commitment to quality, flavor, and creating a complete experience. These are some of the key factors we considered when selecting the best spots for bar food in Cleveland:
- Quality of Ingredients: Fresh, locally sourced ingredients always make a difference. Whether it’s the beef in a burger or the produce on a flatbread, quality shines through. Bars that prioritize sourcing locally show a commitment to the community and offer dishes that simply taste better.
- Taste and Flavor Profiles: The food needs to be craveable and well-executed. Bold flavors, interesting combinations, and perfect execution are key. We’re looking for dishes that make you want to come back for more.
- Uniqueness of Menu Items: While we love a good classic, a little creativity goes a long way. Bars that put a unique spin on familiar dishes or offer completely original creations earn extra points. The bar food scene in Cleveland has exploded with creativity, so its important to highlight some of the unique items across the scene.
- Overall Bar Atmosphere: The ambiance matters! A great bar food experience is about more than just the food; it’s about the atmosphere, the service, and the overall vibe.
- Value for Money: Good food shouldn’t break the bank. We’re looking for bars that offer generous portions and quality ingredients at a fair price.
- Customer Reviews and Reputation: What are the locals saying? We’ve taken into account online reviews and the general reputation of each bar.
Where to Find the Best Bar Food in Cleveland
Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Here’s a curated list of some of the best bar food spots in Cleveland, categorized by the type of food they excel at. Get ready to drool!
Classic Wings and Pub Favorites
Cleveland wouldn’t be Cleveland without amazing wings and other traditional pub fare. These spots take the classics and elevate them to new heights.
The Corner Alley
(East Fourth Street, Cleveland) This lively spot on East Fourth Street offers more than just bowling. Their wings are legendary, particularly the signature dry-rubbed variety. Crispy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, they’re a must-try. Pair them with a local craft beer for the ultimate Cleveland experience.
Mabel’s BBQ
(East Fourth Street, Cleveland) While primarily a barbecue joint, Mabel’s has a fantastic bar area and serves up some seriously addictive loaded tater tots. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and piled high with pulled pork, cheese, and all the fixings, they’re the perfect comfort food. It’s the definition of bar food heaven.
Great Lakes Brewing Company
(Ohio City, Cleveland) This Cleveland institution isn’t just about the beer. Their soft pretzels are a must. Served warm with a side of their famous Dortmunder Gold beer cheese, they’re the perfect snack to share with friends. They’re large, perfectly salted, and incredibly satisfying.
Gourmet Burgers and Sandwiches
Looking for a hearty, satisfying meal? These Cleveland bars offer gourmet burgers and sandwiches that will leave you wanting more.
Tremont Taphouse
(Tremont, Cleveland) The Tremont Taphouse is known for its extensive beer list and its amazing burgers. Their “Cleveland Stack” burger is a masterpiece, featuring locally sourced beef, piled high with toppings, and served on a perfectly toasted bun. Its one of the best burgers you can find in the city. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it a great spot to unwind after a long day.
The South Side
(Tremont, Cleveland) This Tremont staple serves up a truly decadent pulled pork sandwich, smothered in homemade barbecue sauce and piled high on a brioche bun. The meat is tender, flavorful, and melts in your mouth. The sauce is tangy, smoky, and perfectly balanced. Grab a side of their mac and cheese for an unforgettable meal. They have a large back patio in the warmer months too.
Pizza and Flatbreads
Sometimes, nothing beats a good pizza. These Cleveland bars offer creative and delicious pizzas and flatbreads that are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
Masthead Brewing Co.
(Downtown, Cleveland) Masthead offers brick-oven pizzas with unique toppings and a perfectly crispy crust. From classic margherita to more adventurous combinations, there’s something for everyone. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a great place to gather with friends.
Market Garden Brewery
(Ohio City, Cleveland) Market Garden is another fantastic brewery and restaurant known for its excellent beer and delicious artisan flatbreads. They use seasonal ingredients to create unique and flavorful combinations. Try their flatbread with roasted vegetables and goat cheese for a taste of Cleveland’s local flavors.
International Flavors
Expand your culinary horizons with these Cleveland bars that offer internationally inspired bar food.
Parkway Lounge
(Detroit Shoreway, Cleveland) This unassuming neighborhood bar is a local favorite known for its surprisingly delicious Korean BBQ tacos. The meat is tender, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. The tacos are served with fresh vegetables and a tangy sauce. It’s a perfect blend of Korean and Mexican flavors.
Porco Lounge & Tiki Room
(Ohio City, Cleveland) While known for their expertly crafted tiki cocktails, Porco also serves up amazing cuban sandwiches. Packed with flavorful pork, cheese, and pickles, its a satisfying and flavorful bite. The vibrant atmosphere is like a mini vacation.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
It’s important to be inclusive, so we’ve also included some Cleveland bars that offer delicious vegetarian and vegan options.
Citizen Pie Roman Cafe
(Ohio City, Cleveland) While not strictly a bar, Citizen Pie is attached to Nano Brew. Enjoy a delicious vegan burger or a creative vegetarian appetizer with your Nano Brew beers.
The Root Cafe
(Lakewood, Cleveland) A short drive from Cleveland proper, The Root Cafe in Lakewood, offers cauliflower wings for those who dont eat traditional wings. There are tons of other vegan and vegetarian friendly items on the menu, and a rotating selection of great beers and cocktails.
Honorable Mentions
Here are a few other bars worth checking out for great bar food in Cleveland:
- Happy Dog (Various Locations): Known for their creative hot dogs and extensive topping selection.
- Lizardville (Various Locations): A Cleveland staple for beer and amazing food, with multiple locations.
- Butcher and the Brewer (East Fourth Street): A great option for craft beer and elevated bar fare.
Tips for Enjoying Cleveland’s Bar Food Scene
To make the most of your culinary adventures, here are a few tips for enjoying Cleveland’s bar food scene:
- Consider the Time of Day: Many bars offer happy hour deals or late-night menus with special pricing. Plan your visit accordingly.
- Check for Specials: Keep an eye out for daily or weekly food specials. You might discover a new favorite dish.
- Explore Different Neighborhoods: Cleveland’s diverse neighborhoods each offer a unique bar food experience. Venture beyond your usual haunts.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Try Something New: Step outside your comfort zone and sample unique dishes. You might be surprised at what you discover.
- Check Hours and Availability: Make sure the bar is open and serving food when you plan to visit. Hours can vary, especially on weekends.
- Consider Reservations: Some popular bars, especially on Friday and Saturday nights, require or recommend reservations. It’s always best to call ahead.
Final Thoughts on Cleveland’s Best Bar Food
Cleveland’s bar food scene is a hidden gem, waiting to be explored. From classic wings to gourmet burgers and internationally inspired flavors, there’s something for everyone. The city’s bars offer a diverse and delicious culinary experience that rivals many of its finest restaurants. So, grab your friends, head to one of these fantastic spots, and experience the best bar food Cleveland has to offer! Cheers to good food, great drinks, and unforgettable times in the heart of Ohio! Cleveland’s culinary scene is constantly evolving, so keep an eye out for new and exciting additions to the best bar food Cleveland has to offer!
