Soul Food
Hungry Hearts will Find Satisfaction in Northeast Ohio’s Unique Comfort Cuisine
Pierogi at Prosperity Social Club
In Cleveland, comfort food isn’t something you indulge in to alleviate stress. It’s celebratory dishes prepared with equal portions of nostalgia and nourishment. Northeast Oho has a rich heritage of comfort food, rooted in eastern European family fare (kielbasa, stuffed cabbage and pierogi) and blue-collar American pub grub (Polish Boys, perch fish fries and gourmet burgers). Tremont is one of the oldest neighborhoods in northeast Ohio, and it’s an epicenter for Cleveland’s uniquely ethnic, blue-collar comfort food. At its heart sits Prosperity Social Club (www.prosperitysocialclub.com).
“We should probably be called Prosperity Comfort Club instead of Social Club,” smiles owner Bonnie Flinner. “We’re a poster child for comfort food, all of which is made from scratch— Hungarian-style stuffed cabbage, beer battered fish, corned beef Reubens on potato pancakes, pierogi, mile-high killer Gouda burgers. You can’t go wrong.”
Tremont is a buffet of comfort food traditions. At Grumpy’s Café on West 14 Street (grumpys-cafe.com), customers enjoy a cozy, homespun atmosphere (with ever-changing artwork on the walls, and a leg lamp in the window) while feasting on huge portions of fresh meatloaf, catfish, lasagna, burgers, and awesomely enormous breakfast foods. Only a few blocks away, Lolita (www.lolitarestaurant.com) has become synonymous with gourmet Cleveland cooking, owned by Food Network Iron Chef, author, and local restaurateur Michael Symon. But beneath the swanky gastronome, Lolita’s menu is full of comfort food favorites.
Monte Cristo at Melt
Tremont is just the start. The many boroughs, burgs, and hamlets of Cleveland are filled with famous stops for comfort food. In Little Italy, Guarino’s (www.guarinoscleveland.com) cooks homemade Italian dishes just like grandma used to make. Melt Bar and Grilled (meltbarandgrilled.com) serves up the city’s best grilled cheese with three metro locations in Lakewood, Cleveland Heights and Independence and a fourth on the way. Each Cleveland neighborhood has a distinct restaurant that uses feelings and flavors to fill both stomachs and souls. We suggest you explore them all.
By Keith Gribbins
Weekend Update July 13-15
Hungry for the weekend? Hit up the Taste of Tremont and spend Sunday afternoon tasting a variety of delicious dishes in this artsy neighborhood created by some of the city’s best Chefs.
There’s no need to make reservations for this event, but make sure to bring your appetite for a day filled with spectacular food and drinks at the 10th annual Taste of Tremont. The street festival showcases the best of what Tremont restaurants and local businesses have to offer, in the casual laid-back summer atmosphere perfect for locals and visitors alike.
The Taste of Tremont is free to attend; attendees only need pay for food and drink at the various vendors! While you walk around, eat and browse, listen to musical entertainment throughout the neighborhood. Performances by SLAP and the Big Ship in the Beer Garden, various performers on the Tremont Farmers Market Stage and restaurants such as DANTE and Fahrenheit host special guests on their patios. More than 20 food vendors (including Lolita, the Istanbul Grill and the famous Solowski’s University Inn) in addition to various galleries, artists and other Tremont businesses will participate in the event.
All the walking around may make you thirsty, if so, stop by the beer garden. Here, attendees can cool off with a brew for $5 (or, hydrate with water for $2.) But, despite the name, food and drinks aren’t the only items that can be purchased at the Taste of Tremont. This year, vendors range from Cleveland Browns, CLE Clothing, Inc., the Banyan Tree and more.
The Taste of Tremont is held on Professor Avenue, between Starkweather and Fairfield. Plenty of Street parking is available in Tremont or find a spot at a neighborhood church. Annunciation Greek Church and St. John Cantius will have additional parking for guests of the Taste of Tremont.
Other Events:
Tremont Art Walk, Tremont – July 13
Toby Keith, Blossom Music Center – July 13
Cain Park Arts Festival, Cain Park – July13-15
Akron Aeros v Altoona, Canal Park– July 13-15
MAMA MIA!, Playhouse Square – July 13-22
Nature at Night, North Chagrin Reservation – July 14
Sunflower Wine Festival, Rocky River – July 14
7th Annual Luau on the Lake, Whiskey Island – July 14
Art in the Park, Medina Court House Square – July 15
– MaryKate McHugh
Insider’s Perspective: Ryan Kenneth “Mickey” McLean
EDITOR’S NOTE: We talked to a few notable Clevelanders and asked them what they liked about Northeast Ohio. Here’s Ryan Kenneth “Mickey” McLean, popular chef at Ohio City’s Flying Fig and Cosmo’s Sexiest Bachelor.
I think you were born in Rochester. So when did you move to Cleveland?
I came here in 1999. It’s crazy, because I was actually just traveling through. I was done with a job in Nashville and was moving back to Rochester. Since I went to a Jesuit school in New York and I knew a couple of guys at John Carroll, I called them and asked them if I could crash. I hung out all weekend, met a few people and next thing I knew I was here for four or five weeks. I picked up the applications for John Carroll and within two months came back for school.
And what part of town do you live in now?
Now, I arguably live closer to John Carroll than some of the buildings on campus. I am in University Heights and I can see the bell tower from here.
What’s the best thing about your neighborhood?
It’s unique because you have this dichotomy of young college students and young families and there are a number of elementary schools. You also have Orthodox Jews because of the temples and the ability to work there. It’s a unique situation especially as you get closer to campus. One house is for college kids, the next is for rabbis and the next is for college kids. Saturdays are crazy around here between all the kids walking home and the people going off to temple.
Cleveland Plus: There’s an App for that
So, you accidentally left your visitors guide in the right field stands after the Indians game? Lost track of your local restaurant cheat sheet while you were starry-eyed at the Rock Hall? No worries–just check your pocket. Thanks to updated mobile-idealized websites and Cleveland-specific apps, your smartphone or iPod has the answers.
Take in the big picture on your small screen by starting out with a visit to www.cleplus.mobi, where Positively Cleveland has packed loads of information into a ridiculously easy-to-use format. Look up places to stay and eat, things to do and what to see throughout the region. Event schedules, one-touch weather forecasts and discount information is there with a finger tap.
Feel like strolling back in time while you’re taking in the sights? You’ll definitely want to download the Apple-friendly Cleveland Historical app developed at Cleveland State University. A GPS-enabled interactive map includes details on more than 100 sites throughout the city, along with links to archival images, audio clips and short documentary videos. You can even take curated historical tours with your iPod or iPhone as your guide, bringing the past to vivid life, and sharing secrets unseen by passersby.
Already known for its art and restaurants and general coolness, it figures that the West Side neighborhood of Tremont also has its own iPhone and iPod app – Experience Tremont. Providing quick links to local restaurants, bars, shops, galleries and museums, the app is perfect for making sure you’re on time for the gallery opening, keeping all your live music options open, and finding that perfect late meal you’re craving.
With all the things you could be doing on a given day in Cleveland, it’s good to know you can still keep everything at your fingertips.
– Submitted by John Booth, guest blogger
A vacation, in our own backyard
It happens like clockwork. The end of January rolls around and I am literally itching for something to do. Call it the winter blues, call it cabin fever, call it whatever you want; it’s a problem, a very expensive problem. I ultimately start planning an elaborate long weekend getaway that I can’t afford so soon after the holidays. Well this year I can’t, just can’t get away right now. But does this mean I have to spend another weekend fine tuning the body imprint on the couch, scanning the latest new releases on Netflix? After some thought and research, I discovered no, there is plenty to do in my hometown of Cleveland in the winter; lately I’ve just been too lazy to get out and do it.
So this weekend I’ve planned a vacation for my husband and I to get away. Sure, it’s only 20 miles away from our humble abode but there are plenty of things to do and places to eat that often we complain we “never have time” to experience. Well, this weekend is our chance. The only rule is that we can’t go somewhere where we have been before, just as if we were on vacation in a different location.
Cleveland Museum of Art
After some wine, we will hop on a bus to the Cleveland Museum of Art (www.clevelandart.org; 216.421.7350), less than a mile away in University Circle. In the process of a massive renovation, the museum reopened some galleries this past summer, bringing back more than 900 pieces, many of which have been out of the public’s eye for the past five years. With more than 40 galleries still open during the renovation there is plenty to see and the best part is admission to the permanent collections is free and open until 9pm on Fridays.
Presti's Bakery
To save money, Friday evening we’ll stay at home. To keep with the vacationing spirit though, no early morning Saturday workout for me. Instead we’ll rise and shine bright and early for skiing and snow tubing at Boston Mills/Brandywine (www.bmbw.com; 800.875.4241). Then, we’ll get in a workout by cross country skiing at Lake Metroparks (www.lakemetroparks.com; 440.358.7275). Hey, if we’ve got this much snow, we might as well enjoy it.
Debonne Vineyards
After a quick change to prepare for a night on the town, we’re heading to the Kennedy’s Theater at PlayhouseSquare (www.playhousesquare.org; 216.771.8403) to check out Flanagan’s Wake. According to reviews the performance is half scripted, half improvisation as the audience is transported to Ireland. The audiences then participate with the villagers in the telling of tales, singing of songs, and mourn the passing of one of their own, Flanagan. Sounds like something worth the low cost of admission, around $20.
The best part about winter vacations? Hotel rooms at way discounted rates. The Radisson Gateway actually has a “red hot deal” online for only $59! Other hotel properties such as the Wyndham have deals based on the temperature outside. For special hotel packages, click here.
Champagne Bar
Sunday morning we’ll finish off the weekend with brunch at Lucky’s Café (www.luckyscafe.com; 216.622.7773) in Tremont. (You can always try one of these brunch options as well) and head home with a new stash of vacation memories and a bank account still on budget.
For more vacation ideas, hotel information and restaurant listings visit www.positivelycleveland.com.
– Submitted by A.I.
The Holiday Inn: A Christmas Story House and Museum Celebrates the Season All Year Around
Nearly everyone has watched A Christmas Story on a lazy December 25, surrounded by family, food, and a big Douglas fir. It’s a Christmas classic, and it’s also a Cleveland classic. The house where much of the 1983 movie was filmed is right on West 11th Street.
“The house is a family fun place and the ultimate destination for any movie fan,” says Steve Siedlecki, executive director. “We offer guided tours that educate fans on why the film producers chose Cleveland and this particular house and once inside, fans get a chance to act out their favorite scenes by crawling under the kitchen sink like Randy, decoding their own secret message or getting a quick feel of the leg lamp in the front window.”
A Christmas Story house, museum and gift shop are open Thursday through Sunday year round, but its popularity really soars during the holidays, starting November 26-27 when A Christmas Story Convention beckons diehard film fans to town. Around 4,000 conventioneers will celebrate the movie with two days of big group screenings and documentaries, house tours, gift shop sprees, fire truck rides and a cocktail reception with many of the actors–Randy, Flick, Scut Farkus, Gover Dill, Miss Shields and the two Higbee Elves. They also get to meet the house historians, who are pure Christmas enthusiasts.
“Our staff is made up of fans of the movie, who are energetic, knowledgeable, and are here to make your A Christmas Story dreams come true,” says Siedlecki. “There is not a day that goes by that people don’t mention that the movie was like a mirror image of their own childhood. They relate to the time period, getting their tongue stuck to a flag pole or being bundled up in a snowsuit. We feel it is important because we ourselves are able to relate to the movie just like all the other fans.”
For more information on A Christmas Story House, museum tours, and the big convention, visit www.achristmasstoryhouse.com or call 216.298.4919. Take a photo tour here. — Submitted by Keith Gribbins, guest blogger
Happy Birthday Tremont Artwalk!
For 14 years, both visitors and locals have gathered in Tremont on the second Friday of each month to explore the ever-changing Cleveland neighborhood. The first Tremont ArtWalk took place on February 12, 1993 with just seven businesses combining energy and resource to showcase the area. Over the last 14 years, more than 100 Tremont businesses have participated in their successful quest to introduce the popular near-westside neighborhood to curious travelers and enthused locals.
Explore Tremont today and you’ll stumble upon trendy shopping, culinary gems, great pubs and art galleries galore. The eclectic mix of Tremont offerings proves to have a little something for everyone. From handmade chocolates and local artistic creations to exciting restaurants with or by great chefs (Dante Buccozzi, Rocco Whalen, Pete Joyce, Michael Symon, etc.), there’s plenty to see, taste, do (and in which to indulge).
The Tremont Artwalk, an exciting night out for both newbies and Tremont regulars, happens the second Friday of each month and participating businesses are listed online prior to then. Hop online ahead of time to map your destinations if you’re unfamiliar with the area and check back often for new additions. Look for special offerings at some artwalk locations.
The next Tremont Artwalk is March 12, 2010 6-10pm. Click here for participating businesses and here for a map of the area.
For other information about the Tremont Artwalk visit www.tremontartwalk.org.
Click here for a few more photos from the most recent Tremont Artwalk. –Sumbitted by CA
EDITOR’S NOTE: Little Italy’s Artwalk takes place annually in June, October and December. Visit the Little Italy or Murray Hill Art Walk websites for more information. Meanwhile, the multi-location Sparx City Hop takes place September 11, 2010 from noon-midnight. Click here for more information.
A Christmas Story House
The Cleveland holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a visit to A Christmas Story House and Museum.
We’ve all seen the cult classic holiday movie A Christmas Story and most of us can quote at least one line (my favorite being inappropriate for this blog), so what better way to get in the holiday spirit than to visit the home of Ralphie Parker and his family?Located in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood (just minutes from downtown), guests get a tour of Ralphie’s home (well, the restored house where the move was filmed) plus a look at original movie props and behind-the-scenes pictures in the accompanying museum.
Some fun facts and important info:
- The museum recently welcomed its 100,000th visitor.
- Museum officials allow you to pose under the kitchen sink (like Randy Parker) for a picture.
- Purchase tickets at the gift shop across the street and pick up your own “major award” while you’re there.
- The leg lamp is always lit in the front window of the house like a “beacon,” so it’s hard to miss!
- And yes, you can touch the leg lamp.
For more information about A Christmas Story House and Museum visit www.achristmasstoryhouse.com. –Submitted by CA
A Christmas Story @ Cleveland Play House
EDITOR’S NOTE: A Christmas Story is such a popular show, two of our blog’s contributors attended it this year and submitted entries . . . which I have combined here. Tami talks about her family experience at the show with her daughter. Christopher comes at it from the perspective of a seasoned theatergoer and fan of many Cleveland Play House performances.
I took my 10-year-old daughter to see the theatrical version of the cult classic A Christmas Story at The Cleveland Play House. What a great evening! Her favorite scenes of the show involved Ralphie and his vivid imagination, particularly the scene when “Ralphie the Kid” does battle with bad guys while dressed in an all-out Elvis-style cowboy suit. I loved the scene when Ralphie imagines his teacher, Miss Shields, reading his theme. Her hat alone is worth the price of admission. The sets for the visit to Santa at Higbee’s are fabulous and will make anyone nostalgic for the days of great department store holiday décor.
A Christmas Story is a terrific holiday treat and since this is the last year it will be shown at Cleveland Play House for awhile, you should definitely put it on your “must-do” list . . . even during the hectic holiday season. And be sure to get there early enough to see all the creative Christmas trees (“Festival of the Trees” features 70 locally sponsored and professionally decorated festive trees) throughout the lobby areas and to snap a shot of someone you love dressed in Ralphie’s “pink nightmare” outfit. –Submitted by TLB
Back by popular demand, A Christmas Story is live on stage in the Bolton Theatre at the Cleveland Play House. This is the Play House’s fifth, and final, staging of the 1983 holiday classic, much of which was filmed right here in Cleveland. Some of the cast from previous seasons has returned, including the wonderful Charles Kartali, who is perfect in the role of “the Old Man.” And Christopher Burns does a stellar job as he takes over the role of the narrator/grown-up “Ralph.” Once again, terrific acting, amazing sets, holiday lights and a now classic holiday story tranform the Bolton’s stage into an old-fashioned Christmas season on the streets of yesteryear.
Based upon a novel by Jean Shepherd, A Christmas Story, recounts the Parker Family Christmas of 1938 in Hohman, Indiana. The central character, Ralphie Parker (whose grown-up alter ego, Ralph, narrates the show as he looks back on his childhood), wants only one thing for Christmas: an official Red Ryder 200-Shot Carbine Action Range Model Air Rifle. This desire becomes his quest and provides a delightful childhood story along the way. Many of the now famous scenes from the 1983 film version are re-created in this wonderful stage adaptation. And the fabulous sets and props, including the Parker Family Home (found in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood) and Higbee’s Department Store (on Public Square), bring “old Cleveland” back to life.
Most importantly, the show brings back a simpler, less-hectic time as one sees the holiday season, and life in general, through the eyes of a nine-year-old boy. This is a show not to be missed as even those unfamiliar with the film are in for a special treat with lots of fun, laughter, and an evening of great theatre. Tickets are selling fast, so be sure to secure your seats.
One of my very best friends attended A Christmas Story with me this year. She had never been to the Cleveland Play House. She very much enjoyed the show and the Festival of Trees. A Christmas Story, directed by Seth Gordon, runs through December 20. The Cleveland Play House, the nation’s first and oldest professional theatre complex, is in its 94th season and continues to offer some of the very best theatre in the country.
And if you just cannot get enough of A Christmas Story, be sure to visit A Christmas Story House and Museum, open year-round on Cleveland’s near west side. For hours of operation and more information, visit www.achristmasstoryhouse.com.
–Submitted Christopher S. Musselman
Monday, December 7, 2009
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