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Design Sponge
July 29th, 2008
cleveland design guide

cleveland.jpg
today’s city guide belongs to the city of cleveland, ohio and comes to us via local shop owner (and lover of all things cleveland), danielle deboe of room service. after leaving cleveland for LA a few years ago, danielle recently returned to open her own retail store and dedicate herself to cleveland’s design scene. her guide is chock-full of great shops and fantastic places to grab a bite, as cleveland has become quite the restaurant town (and his home to my chef-crush, michael symon). click here to read danielle’s full cleveland guide or just click “read more” below. thanks, danielle!


CLEVELAND CITY GUIDE

In assembling this list there is one thing that became perhaps more clear than ever…Cleveland is a PREMIERE restaurant town! So many famous chefs, including an IRON one, creating fabulous dining experiences with some inspiring interiors, all in just ONE TOWN!!

Something else that became clear was that this is a beautiful place situated amongst dense old trees and right on a lake making it an incredibly recreational place to live or visit.

To me, the most important and critical reason to make this list available though, is for the arts and culture-minded tourists. Without a proper tour guide, you may leave here without realizing a truly unique and arts-centric experience. Quite honestly, this town is just not as instinctive to visitors as some other cities may be, you’ll no doubt have no problems finding a great place to eat, but knowing where to go from there for some unique shopping or other type of activities will be a bit more challenging, as admittedly, a little more guidance is helpful here, but Cleveland is brimming with so many things to do/eat/see/hear that I found that it would be nearly impossible to include them all, so please refer to the additional list of resources at the end of this guide to help plan your visit!

GORDON SQUARE ARTS & BEYOND

The most exciting neighborhood in Cleveland right now without a doubt would be the GORDON SQUARE ARTS DISTRICT. Just one block from Lake Erie’s coastline park, and a view of downtown to the east this neighborhood is brimming with exciting new restaurants and businesses which have opened in the last year or are slated to open in the next. A 1920’s movie theater restoration already underway, this neighborhood promises to be THE one-stop destination for locals and travelers alike…you could get dropped off here and on foot spend an afternoon or evening here alone.

SHOPS & ART

Room Service -This is my lifestyle shop dedicated to attainable good design, in any form it takes: from modern to vintage, wall art to rugs, organic cleaning products to amazing stationery, kitchen accessories and jewelry to furniture both old and new, premium soy candles and even some apparel. I am the owner and can promise that you will always find juxtaposition of old and new here; from the space itself to the product assortment.

duoHOME - is a design-driven home furnishings and accessories boutique offering unique items not found in other home stores here. Hand-selected by the store owners, the merchandise changes often, making every visit a new adventure in design discovery…and the owners, Tim & Scott (or “the boys” )are super duper friendly and helpful.

Kitsch City - Kitsch City is a one stop fun-filled shopping adventure. Super gift items, hilarious greeting cards, T-shirts, holiday ornaments and more all in one colorful and different store.

The Detroit Studio - is a gift shop, design firm and printer all rolled into one!

Reincarnation - perhaps my favorite in town source for antiques, the owners, Ron and Cindy have an incrediblle selection, displayed very thoughtfully in their gigantic space and everything is at a very affordable price point… - 216.651.9806 - 7821 Lorain Ave.

Suite Lorain - 1920’s-1970’s vintage clothing, furniture and home accessories…Fun place to spend an afternoon, There is virtually every type of item here, a prop shoppers’ dream place!

Michael Rolf Antiques - Sophisticated, well-curated, there is nothing here i do not want…ever. - 216.651.8888 - 7900 Lorain Ave.

Flower Child - vintage from 1930’s -1970’s, this is always one of my first stops for mid-century furniture, but I usually end up with some sort of vintage kitchen accessory or pair of vintage Frye boots while I am there as well!

Cosmic Collectibles - all the digging has already been done by the owner, Robin, ensuring this store is brimming with only cute things… 216.221.1085 -14532 Detroit ave.

Chelsea’s Vintage Clothing- giant vintage warehouse…best stop for halloween costumes! - (216) 226-9147 1412 W 116th St

Deja Vu - Little gem of a shop, vintage/antiques, really dense with items. (216) 228-7212 14411 Detroit Ave.

The Bent Crayon - great independent music shop.

1POINT618 Gallery - In a stunning space, designed by local architect, Robert Maschke, this gallery is exquisite and shows extraordinary local, national and international artists’ work.

The studios at 78th - this historic warehouse is home to many of Cleveland’s finest galleries, artist studios & businesses including AP magazine, recording studios & artist Derek Hess’ STRHESS CLOTHING line.

EAT & DRINK

Luxe Kitchen & lounge - Cleveland Chef/Restauranteur Marlin Kaplan’s newest restaurant, Luxe, has taken over an old bank building, even leaving the old vault exposed as his wine cellar, the decor is my favorite: a mix of antique and clean modern touches and the dynamic moderately priced menu has something for everyone.

Stonemadd - If you visit in summer, be sure to sit on their elaborate stone patio, as it is stunning, but if you like indoors better you will not be disappointed as this is one of the most thoughtfully re-designed places I have ever been. They even have an indoor bocci court, a nod to the Italian neighborhood in which this Irish/Italian pub lies. 216-281-6500 - 1306 W.65th

Gypsy Beans & Baking Co. - this historic space updated to be everything a good coffee shop ought to be…a place to get your morning coffee (and in this case, amazing pastry, smoothie or lunch as well).

City Grill - nothing fancy here, but if your lucky you may walk into karaoke or a $2 breakfast! (216) 651-2170 - 6416 Detroit Ave.

Latitude 41 - open for breakfast, lunch and dinner 216-961-0000 - 5712 Detroit Ave.

Krazy Macs - if you like mac-n-cheese, this is a MUST visit, and they have an outdoor patio, which is nice for summer visits. 216-631-7555 - 5800 Detroit Ave.

Reddstone - neighborhood restaurant and bar with a rock-n-roll bent.

The Parkview Nite Club - Cleveland staple, This is a great breakfast spot. they have live music on the weekends…usually Blues, but not always.

Minh Anh - vietnamese restaurant. They features a fine selection of ethnic cuisine, offering everything from frog legs to chicken curry. 5428 Detroit Ave. - 216-961-9671.

Happy Dog - this bar/restaurant shows live music and has a very casual neighborhood (albeit a neighborhood perhaps of 50-60 years ago) feel to it.

Melt - a grilled cheese restaurant, this place is ALWAYS packed, even with their new expansion, but I have to say…it is worth it! Their website says it all: “WARNING: you must love cheese, bread & beer to enter!”

Aladdins - middle eastern menu, multiple locations throughout the city, this is one of my favorites for quick, healthy & unique meals.

Pier W - recently renovated, this place is right on the lake with views additional views of downtown. Beautiful any time of day, and the sunday buffet brunch…wow, major.

The Liquid Planet - fresh fruit smoothies and great pita sandwiches, I always get one of these smoothies with a vitamin boost before flying to strengthen my immune system.

MORE FUN TO HAVE

Cleveland Public Theater - CPT is the place for new, adventurous and politically relevant works of performance. This is a Cleveland staple.

Near West Theater - Near West theater’s mission statement is that the soul of their theater is ‘belief in the healing, transformative power of the theatrical arts…This great Cleveland theater is currently residing in the Ohio City neighborhood but is builing a new state of the art theater here in the Gordon Square this year.

Capitol Theater (open May 09′) - built in 1921 but vacant for the last two decades, this historic structure is re-opening as a state-of-the-art movie theater but restoring its 1920’s architectural details.

Edgewater Park and Beach - Cleveland has a beach! actually, there are quite a few as we are situated on Lake Erie’s shoreline, but this one is right in the city and has a park attached.

Whisky Island Park - Marina, Bar, Park and Vollyball…come to play or come to watch, either way I am told its quite a party!

OHIO CITY

Ohio City is one of Cleveland’s most historic neighborhoods. It was considered one of the top-10 cottage communities by COTTAGE LIVING magazine. This neighborhood is just over the bridge from downtown, a few blocks from the lake and home to the area’s largest and oldest farmers market: The Westside Market, many of Cleveland’s best restaurants, bars and coffee shops can be found here.

EAT + DRINK + SHOP

West Side Market - Northeast Ohio’s oldest publicly-owned market, come here for a custom-order crepe, a falafal sandwich and then do all your market shopping for the freshest local meats and produce (not to mention a local favorite, pierogies!)

Great Lakes Brewery - historic local brewing company and restaurant with a great outdoor patio.

Market Avenue WIne Bar - with an enormous wine selection you still cannot stump Joy, who runs this wine bar. She knows exactly what questions to ask to aid in selecting the right wine for you….and she always gets it right!

The Flying FIg - Chef Karen Small has created a great place with a great menu. The happy hour menu till 7:30 is even impressive.

Bar Cento - tied for my current favorite (along with luxe) over a 100 selections of wine by the glass, amazing brick oven flat bread pizzas, and overall great vibe.

The Bier Market - serves nearly 100 Belgian Beers and many many others.

The Old Angle - definitely a cozy neighborhood tavern with a good menu…i love cozying up to their fireplace with a bowl of chili in the fall.

Talkies Coffee Shop - neighborhood coffee shop, lunch spot, and silent movie theater all in one!

Momocho - known for their “mod-mex” menu, I can tell you the goat cheese guacamole is a must have.

Hecks - Well known for their burgers…appropriately so too!

Le Petit Triangle Cafe - modeled after a french cafe, you can stop by for a morning croissant and coffee, lunch or dinner with wine.

Kimo’s Sushi - sushi, no alcohol. 216.631.7463 1885 Fulton Rd.

Nates - Super casual middle eastern eatery. Open for lunch, right next to the West Side Market, I try to multi-task my visits to both. 216.696.7529- 1923 W. 25th St.

Nick’s Diner - the classic greasy spoon breakfast joint, you will not be alone there Sat. & Sun. mornings! 216.631.7757 4116 Lorain Ave.

The Light Bistro - Top notch chef, nice wine selection and This old home turned restaurant has a really warm feel with exposed brick.

The Glass Bubble Project - stop by for a glass-blowing class or just pop in to see their wares which are for sale, from decorative bowls to chandeliers.

Elegansia - This is a vintage clothing/jewelry store that also has a strong inventory (albeit fluctuating) of designer vintage.

TREMONT

Tremont has been called “A small town in the heart of the city”, high on a bluff overlooking the Cuyahoga River and the Flats, tremont boasts some of the best views in the city. Within a quarter of a mile, you’ll find award-winning restaurants, boutique shopping and historic buildings surrounding a New England-style town square. Tremont has one of the largest concentrations of notable churches to be found anywhere in America. On the 2nd Friday of each month the neighborhood’s galleries and shops host the TREMONT ART HOP. If you like visiting art galleries, this neighborhood is a sure thing! I could not include all of them here, but you’ll have no trouble finding them all once in the neighborhood!

SHOPS + ART

Banyan Tree - contemporary home decor and and a great apparel assortment for women…and super nice group of gals working there!

Powter Puff Boutique - This boutique owned by the sassy, Brooke, seems to be a must stop for your dress shopping needs.

Pinky’s Daily Planner - Local Fashion designer with her own boutique…her work has a 1940’s flair to it.

Visible Voice Books - an independent bookstore with a community feel…these folks like books and they like helping guide you to the writer that will make you as passionate as they are about books.

Asterix Gallery - local favorite, this is one not to miss.

Brandt Gallery - The oldest gallery in Tremont, they focus on Northeast ohio artists.

EAT + DRINK

Lolita - owned by the IRON CHEF, Michael Symon, check out the Tuesday night pig roasts!

806 Bistro - the decor inside here is incredible, wood paneled, wainscot, antique chairs and settees that make me weep they are so amazing!…oh yeah, and good wine and usually art too!

Parallax - modern decor and menu, the butternut squash risotto I had 2 years ago still makes my mouth water when I think about it!

Southside - amazing salads and sandwiches, giant patio, laid back atmosphere.

Edisons - really fantastic beer selection and pool table with the a blues band on Saturday nights makes this a neighborhood staple.

Fahrenheit - This was last summer’s obsession, I think this is still one of the best restaurants in town.

Grumpy’s Cafe - casual little eatery, popular for breakfasts. 216.241.5025 2621 W.14th St

Prosperity Social Club - One of my favorite Tremont spots, they have a full dinner menu, back patio, and that mini-bowling game!

Treehouse - Irish Pub with an outdoor patio, this is a neighborhood favorite especially when the Pogues cover band, Boys from the County Hell are playing. 216.696.2505 820 College Ave. -

Lincoln Park Pub - Just a neighborhood bar with a wildly popular TACO TUESDAY thing going on. 216.621.2240 2609 W.14th St.

Lava Lounge - Great food and serves all night. There is usually a DJ. 216.589.9112 -1307 Auburn Ave.

La Tortilla Feliz - recently re-opened after a redecorating hiatus…i hope still the same authentic South American menu.

Lago - Italian restaurant specializing in Northern Italian cuisine.

The Tap House - Cleveland’s first gastropub, The menu features an extensive beer list and a great moderately priced menu made from largely locally grown ingredients.

Scoops - all i can say are these 2.5 words: “cookies n creme”. amazing. i love this place!

Lucky’s Cafe - This is definitely on the sunday brunch rotation, great savory and sweet brunch items on the menu. you order at the counter and they bring you your food once you sit down.

Velvet Tango Room - I have never heard a bad thing about this place, I still have to go it has this air of mystery to it!

Pat’s in the Flats - music venue hosting local and national acts.

DOWNTOWN - EAST FOURTH STREET -ARTS QUARTER/MID TOWN

Downtown, like most of Cleveland’s neighborhoods is FULL of amazing restaurants, The E.4th Street neighborhood is fast becoming a premier night spot and the Midtown Art Quarter is brimming with talented artists, galleries and amazing ethnic restaurants, below is a highlight of these neighboring communities. The highlights of downtown are a bit more disparate, this is not where you get dropped off and walk around all day, unless you want to do a lot of walking, it requires a bit more fore thought but would be worth it as there are some great places here.

SHOP + EAT + DRINK + HAVE FUN:

Art Craft Building - Full of design and art-related businesses and galleries, Photographer, Russell Lee has his studio here.

Surroundings - Premier destination for contemporary, European and modern classics furniture.

Front Room Gallery - Co-operative art gallery and event space, they exhibit fresh works by young and emerging artists.

Lola - Owned by Iron chef, Michael Symon, this is not just one of of our premiere restaurants because of the name, it is in fact, an incredible menu and atmosphere.

The Greenhouse Tavern - Using only locally-grown items on their menu they will reinterpret some classic dishes. Opening Fall 2008 By Chef Jonathan Sawyer of Bar Cento.

Spaces Gallery - One of the premiere Cleveland galleries.

#1 Pho - 3120 Superior Ave. 216.781.1176

Koko’s Bakery - located in Asia Town, Koko is much more than a bakery with a complete lunch menu and fresh Chinese buns…these buns are worth the trip alone! 3710 Payne Ave 216-881-7600

One Walnut - voted by Gourmet magazine as a Top 100 restaurant 2 years in a row, this is a sophisticated atmosphere with an exquisite menu.

Crop Bistro - with an informal atmosphere, yet another renowned chef-owned restaurant with an impressive and dynamic, ever-changing menu.

MOCA Cleveland - Cleveland’s Museum of Contemporary Art.

Playhouse Square - Playhouse gets all the biggest shows from Broadway and is the heart of downtowns Theater district.

Pickwick & frolick & Hillarities - This is more of a venue than just a restaurant or comedy club, its both, plus a cabaret space and martini bar!

House of Blues - This venue does not require much explanation, but I think it speaks to the nature of the entire E.4th street neighborhood, as an exciting, entertainment-based destination, with a wild and filling Sunday Gospel Brunch).

Corner Alley - Downtown bowling alley and bar, located right in the E.4th street neighborhood.

Asia Plaza - I like to come here for items unique to asian markets, not just food related but wonderful bowls and stationery too! 2999 Payne Ave. 216.241.3553

The Agora - Classic rock club, this venue first opened in 1966 and with its two stages has hosted some of the best acts in the music business.

TheTime Warner at Tower City Amphitheatre - Outdoor music venue right on the river.

The Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame & Museum - There are great exhibits to be seen here and a beautiful park on the lake behind this museum worth taking a stroll along as well.

The Cleveland Science Center - This is where you will find the Omnimax theater too.

COVENTRY - SHAKER SQ. AND BEYOND

Situated by several Universities and Colleges, this neighborhood is a hub of commerce and nightlife. It is also home to the Grog Shop, one of Cleveland’s premiere rock clubs. It is very easy to pass an entire day here.

SHOP

Brigade - Probably the best apparel shop in Cleveland for some top urban designers like G Star Raw Industry, J Lindeberg ,Nice Collective, Nom de Guerre, Oak NYC and Cleveland’s own Wrath Arcane, Brigade feature both men’s and women’s apparel and accessories.

Mac’s Backs - great independent bookstore (be sure to check out the basement) attached to Tommy’s restaurant.

Big Fun - As the name suggests this place is big fun! This is where you go to have a photo booth pic taken while wearing a feather boa and big giant clown glasses. 1827 Coventry Rd. 216.371.4386

American Apparel - I was not going to include any chain stores’s on this list, as those are never terribly hard to find, but this rounds out the shopping experience in this neighborhood well.

Revive Store - This shop only sells Fair Trade Items, made from around the world, great t-shirts and bags. I bought a bib here for a gift that said ” give PEAS

Lush Boutique - located slightly outside of any of these neighborhoods, but situated right in another shopping district nearby (Legacy Village which features a lot of the big name furniture stores and restaurants) this boutique is a great destination for designer jeans and dresses.

EAT + DRINK + MUSIC

La Cave Du Vin - tucked away in a basement on the Coventry strip this dark, cavernous (hence the name), candle-lit wine bar features a help-yourself wall of an impressive selection of refrigerated beers, and little cafe-style tables as well as tasty cheese-boards… Everyone there is really helpful and knowledgeable about their wine and beer selections.

Mint Cafe - This thai restaurant is incredibly good with a crisp and fresh decor.

Nighttown - Eclectic American menu available until midnight and fabulous outdoor patio with waterfall make this a popular destination.

Lopez - Stop here for some gourmet mexican fare, and be sure to have some of their yummy margarita’s in this festive environment.

Saravá - WIth a stunning interior the restaurant intends to evoke the rhythm, sophistication and energy of Brazilian street life.

The Gellateria - Best Gelato in town, my friend megan makes her choices on the color (her favorite, the perfect shade of pink) but you can be sure any choice will melt your heart!

The Stone Oven - makes all their bread right on site, as well as yummy pastries, soups and sandwiches. The couscous is a nice alternative side to chips.

Tommy’s - Vegetarians, vegans, meat-eaters, health-conscious and the just plain hungry. Whatever category you fall into, Tommy’s will take care of you…and they will accompany it with the best milkshake EVER.

Phoenix Coffee Shop - Their fair-trade beans are roasted right downtown. Wifi is free and simple lunch options available.

The Grog Shop - The venue for live music featuring local and national acts of indie rock, rock-n-roll and more….stop downstairs to their B-Side Liquor Lounge for another full bar and DJ.

TO DO

Cedar-Lee -art-house movie theater

Cane Park - Besides being a beautiful park this is also an outdoor amphitheater which plays host a wide variety of events all season long.


WATERLOO NEIGHBORHOOD

on the outskirts of downtown and just a block away from the Lake, this working-class neighborhood is a great evening destination…go to dinner, do a little shopping, before catching a show at the Beachland.

Beachland Ballroom + Tavern +This Way Out downstairs!- 2 rock clubs in one, with the Ballroom on one side and the Tavern on the other, this venue place host to some of my favorite acts. They also have a surprisingly tasty menu in both bars and a vintage store downstairs!

Music Saves - An independent record store specializing in indie rock and it’s extended family.

Shoparooni - Local shop features some familiar brands along side some handmade and locally made items.

Grovewood Tavern - Situated in a cozy neighborhood setting, this restaurant has an award-winning food and wine list, yet feels incredibly casual, stop here before going to a show at the Beachland.

LITTLE ITALY & UNIVERSITY CIRCLE

Cleveland’s Little Italy neighborhood, situated near many Universities and Colleges and University Circle, are full of state-of-the-art architecture, culture, and fine dining establishments.

EAT + DRINK + SHOP + ART + TO DO

Murray Hill School House -This old school house is host to many different art galleries and studios, some shops and you can even live in the condos here too! 2026 Murray Hill

La Dolce Vita - Corner sidewalk cafe-style Italian restaurant. Come here on Monday’s for Opera night and be treated to live opera and a traditional 8-course meal.

Presti’s Bakery - Local Coffee and Pastry shop with sidewalk cafe tables.

Sergio’s - If you are spending the afternoon in the University Circle area, this would be a great lunch or dinner spot with a menu featuring Italian, French, and Mediterranean inspired dishes with an emphasis on the freshest seafood.

Baricelli Inn - Designed and built in 1896, It has become an internationally recognized restaurant and Inn.

Cinematheque - The Cleveland Institute of Art Cinematheque features films in CIA’s 616 seat auditorium. Known for it’s viewings of more obscure Independent and foreign films and documentaries.

The Cleveland Museum of Art - Under a major renovation, this museum has just re-opened several sections. Boasting one of the most impressive collections in the country, the architecture of the museum alone will impress.

Severance Hall - Home to the world-class Cleveland Orchestra and an exquisite home it is. Renovated in recent years this place truly shines.

The Botanical Gardens - The Butterfly Sanctuary is an experience. Be sure to brush off your clothes when you leave, as the sign will remind you…you don’t want to take any butterflies home that may have attached themselves to your shoulder!

Lakeview Cemetery & Garfield Monument - While visiting a cemetery to some may be a bit macabre, I find this cemetery to be one of the most beautiful places in all of Cleveland. Somewhere in the midst of the cemetery you’ll find the Garfield Monument, a monument to the former President of the US who is actually buried here along side his wife. Climb to the top of the monument for a stunning view of all of Cleveland and Lake Erie.

CHAGRIN FALLS and CHAGRIN BLVD.

This Turn of the century town is about 30 minutes east of downtown Cleveland, but well-worth the excursion as it is a great dining and shopping excursion all set in a Rockwell-type setting, waterfall and all! Nearby Chagrin Blvd., is also host to some great places; some bigger name national stores and restaurants can be found here, but also some local GEMS!

Lingg Showroom - not exactly in Chagrin, but close enough to include and THE BEST jewelry and personal accessories destination in Cleveland…hands down!

Paladar - The space is really beautiful and the latin menu delicious.

Knuth Shoes - clothing, accessories, and as the name suggests…shoes! 30619 Pinetree Rd, Cleveland - (216) 831-9606

Stash Style - This would be another of those vintage shops where all the digging has been done for you. There is nothing but choices here, everything in this vintage chic showroom is incredible. This is where I would go for crystal chandeliers or distressed white furniture, but I would also probably end up walking away with a vintage french language book and pair of 1920’s earrings.

Three Home - Home accessories, furniture and design services, this funky shop will no doubt inspire!

Tonic Home - I have not been there yet but have heard great things and checked out their windows when they were closed to discover a luxuriously chic showroom.

Nola True - charming little shop featuring affordable but unique apparel for the fashion saavy gal not wanting to trail trends too closely.

Deborah Nicholl Interiors -stunning windows, this interior designer carries Flavor Paper, one of my favorite wallpaper lines out today!

Hedges Designs -fun gift destination…you can shop for yourself to your grandmother, the assortment is diverse, yet feminine.

The Little Monogram Shop - Monogrammed items make for great personalized gift-giving!

Fireside Book shop -open a bit later, i have lost hours in this bookstore before!

Juicy Lucy - very special apparel shop with stunningly chic selections of designers. 31 W. Orange St. 440.247.5748

The Popcorn shop - This quintessential small town ice cream and popcorn shop is a popular summer destination. Situated right alongside the waterfalls here, you can get some Euclid Beach Custard and walk down their steps to a viewing area of the falls.

Ricks Cafe - Perhaps the best ribs in Cleveland (at least one of), this Chagrin Falls staple is named after the bar in the film Casablanca and the art deco decor reflects that.

Gamekeepers Tavern - You will feel as if you are at some rural upstate lodge inside this incredible restaurant, In the summer their outdoor patio is tucked away and private.

87 West Wine bar - a great wine, martini & beer bar with a splendid patio and delicious appetizers.

Blakes - With the best view of the falls, this restaurant features some of the best seafood I have ever had and the atmosphere is just as good (re-opening after renovations fall 2008).

Hunan By the Falls - My favorite Chinese restaurant in Cleveland, the staff is so incredibly nice and the food outstanding.

CLEVELAND MISCELLANEOUS OUTDOOR (and indoor) ACTIVITIES FOR YOU, A BIKE, & YOUR DOG!:

Ray’s Indoor Mountain Bike Park - open from October - April, this is the WORLD’s only indoor MTB park! nearly 100,000 square feet of bike shenanigans, I had a blast last winter when I went!

Towpath - My (somewhat) daily morning routine is doing a 20 mile round-trip on the Towpath but you can do 60 miles if your up for it! This amazing path, starting right in the heart of Industrial Cleveland fools you into believing you are far out in the country! While on this path all you see is the canal that flows along side and nature! It is beautiful and a great reprieve from urban life…you can walk, jog, or ride the towpath.

OR If you brought your Mountain Bike, check out the Mountain Bike options with CAMBA.

if you do take a bike with you to Cleveland, here are some bike resources:

SPIN - FRIDRICHS - CENTURY CYCLES - SHAKER CYCLES

T.R.E.A.T.S dog park - Like a party for your pet, this park has a huge, fenced in area with water dishes, and benches for the ‘parents’. If you travel with your pet, this is a great way to tire him out so that he sleeps at night at the hotel!

Voinovich Park - situated behind the Rock Hall and Science center this park is right on the water and great for a little stroll!

Rockefeller Park Greenhouse - Lovely, quaint, beautiful gardens and FREE. Head over to the Art Museum when your done - it’s a walk away.

OTHER REALLY HELPFUL CLEVELAND RESOURCES TO CHECK OUT BEFORE PLANNING YOUR TRIP:

Cleveland Foodie

a prolific blogger, Michelle and her husband do a lot of dining out around town and she writes about all of her experiences, giving you the nuances of each restaurants’ true experience.

I heart Cleveland

Charity, who owns CHARTREUSE, a design firm, writes nearly daily on things to do around town.

gogreen

Focuses on daily life for someone with a new awareness for green living and her attempt to consider how to make her activities and habits around town more green.

even Cleveland

very prolific cleveland blogger, blogs about the perspective of a design-loving Clevelander

Cleveland Epicure

Alan writes a blog, newsletter and website about dining and libations in Cleveland.

Positively Cleveland

Official City Guide

41 comments
betsy said:
July 29th, 2008 - 11:04 am

i was in cleveland for about 24 hours and i went to melt. twice.
it’s AMAZING
i want one to open in madison, now.

style scout said:
July 29th, 2008 - 11:32 am

Way to go superchica Danielle! Thank you for giving chops our super soul city!
I love that my town is featured on my fave blog! There is so much to love there!

abby said:
July 29th, 2008 - 11:42 am

no visit to Cleveland is complete with out a visit to the Bent Crayon. Make sure to say hi to “crabby” Johnny.

cheryl said:
July 29th, 2008 - 11:50 am

I’m so happy to see my hometown on here! More places to explore!

One more note, there’s also a GREAT antique store in Coventry which I think is called Attenson’s. Two stores full of antiques and a bargain basement!

Jen said:
July 29th, 2008 - 11:51 am

I miss Cleveland! Great job and I’m so glad you included Cleveland in your list of city guides. I’m still looking for a way to move back!

victoria said:
July 29th, 2008 - 12:05 pm

I just moved to Cleveland from Brooklyn, NY and I’ve been feeling very sad about it recently. This has renewed my hope for this city. Thank you so very much for posting this.

Nadia said:
July 29th, 2008 - 12:22 pm

Thanks for a beautiful guide to an underrated city! Can’t wait to explore all the places on your amazing list!

Megan said:
July 29th, 2008 - 1:40 pm

I’m originally from Cleveland and I’m so happy to see my great hometown featured on D*S! Now I’m so excited for my next trip home!

Erin said:
July 29th, 2008 - 1:46 pm

I lived in Cleveland for 6 years before moving this past December. You forgot Johnny Mango’s in Ohio City…amazing guacamole and smoothies. So happy you included Nate’s! That will always be my favorite Mediterranean dining experience…used to go once a week.

Charity said:
July 29th, 2008 - 2:19 pm

Danielle & Design Sponge, THANK YOU for including me amongst Cleveland’s best! Your vision and enthusiasm make me even more excited to search out the next best new and interesting things to do in our wonderful city. Keep up the great work.

Scott said:
July 29th, 2008 - 3:05 pm

Danielle….you have OUTDONE yourself!!!! Thanks for showing the world that Cleveland really does have alot to offer!!!!! :)

Brian said:
July 29th, 2008 - 3:53 pm

Very impressive mix of many neighborhoods Danielle. Thank you. You may want to add Pacific East on Coventry and fire food and drink in Shaker Square. Both are very good.
In Lakeview Cemetary, Wade Chapel is a MUST see stop.

James said:
July 29th, 2008 - 4:16 pm

Great guide! The indoor mtb park looks like a fun place to try out.

Kim said:
July 29th, 2008 - 4:29 pm

Hi Grace! Is there a St. Louis Guide in the works? I just moved here last week from NYC and would love to work on one. It would be a great excuse to go shopping! Let me know - either way, I think I’ll work on one. I can always just send you a link when it’s done. I read your blog daily and always find it very inspiring. Keep up the great work!

Mark said:
July 29th, 2008 - 7:08 pm

I’m excited to go back to Cleveland and check out the places I’m not familiar with–thanks for the great guide. Two beautiful get-aways in the area are: Cuyahoga Valley National Park, with terrific scenery, hiking (and canals mentioned above). And there is also Nelson-Kennedy Ledges, with its cool rock formations. (When is a Pittsburgh guide coming out?)

kat said:
July 29th, 2008 - 7:34 pm

Thanks for doing a fantastic job covering the Cleveland Metro Area. I’ve become a Cleveland enthusiast since moving to the area four years ago to the day! It is a friendly place and lots to do, sophistication is part of this city and you really showcased it.

Melanie said:
July 29th, 2008 - 8:28 pm

Yay! Cleveland finally got its own design guide.

I grew up in Cleveland but didn’t appreciate how wonderful it is until I moved back 2 years ago.

brenda said:
July 29th, 2008 - 10:09 pm

Hooray! Danielle, this is awesome. Thank you for taking the time to point out some of the cool things going on in our city! One other place to check out in the “COVENTRY - SHAKER SQ. AND BEYOND” category is On the Rise Bakery (3471 Fairmount Blvd). Their sticky buns, croissants, and fresh breads and extraordinary, truly.

Chris said:
July 30th, 2008 - 6:57 am

Thanks for the Cleveland focus!! Good job showcasing so many of the different districts — not easy with so many great pockets of culture here. Add the Metroparks and all the beaches, what a great place to be!

Suzanne said:
July 30th, 2008 - 8:25 am

Thanks so much for this wonderful guide! I’m going to be in Cleveland with my daughter in a couple of weeks, and this information will be really helpful.

amy k said:
July 30th, 2008 - 8:56 am

As a Cleveland expat and frequent re-visitor, I had to put in my 2 cents.
4 Food: anything Michael Symon does, RED the Steakhouse (http://www.redthesteakhouse.com/), La Bodega (yummy sandwhich shop in Tremont), and definately get your wine and cheese on at La Cav Du Vin on Conventry- the single thing I miss most about living in Cleveland.

For Shopping, Suite Lorrain and Cosmic Collectables are great for fun kitsch and retro stuff.

For art galleries, Spaces is your best bet. The MOCA usually has great stuff up too. But check out Artchitecture Gallery (http://www.artchitecturegallery.com/) for sweet Street-art by perhaps lesser known folks. Also look out for Cleveland Artist Amy Casey - she shows a lot around town, and her work IS the goodness. (http://www.amycaseypainting.com)

Liz said:
July 30th, 2008 - 9:42 am

Thanks, it is nice that the cities featured on this site (i.e. Detroit, Cincy) are ones people might not think of as cool. A really great record store for punk rock type music is My Mind’s Eye on Madison Avenue in Lakewood. I know from experience that is is hard to find a good record store in a foreign city. Lakewood is great overall. If you’re a beer fan, check out the Beer Engine, also on Madison. They have about 25 different craft beers on tap and about 100 others to choose from, with a nice neighborhood atmosphere that is not hip or trendy feeling. Melt is in Lakewood too. Also, for some of Cleveland’s best pizza try Angelo’s on Madison, or Danny Boy’s on Lake Road in Rocky River.

PostScriptGirl said:
July 30th, 2008 - 12:26 pm

Excellent job, Danielle. I smiled at the gellato shout-out. Pink grapefruit was the flavor - the “perfect shade of pink”. You made Cleveland proud with such a well, thought out city guide featuring all the best. Muah!

Candis said:
July 30th, 2008 - 12:55 pm

This is an awesome guide. Danielle did a great job. Thanks for adding Cleveland to design guide!

William said:
July 30th, 2008 - 6:48 pm

Another Cleveland native here. Really great to see some Cleveland love. Thanks!!

kat said:
July 30th, 2008 - 7:18 pm

you’re right, there are plenty of places to eat in cleveland - which is about the only thing that there is to do! :/

there is nothing centralized downtown (eating AND shopping, for example), and everything worth experiencing is too scattered - a car is definitely required for any resident or tourist, unfortunately.

claire said:
July 31st, 2008 - 8:08 am

i just moved to cleveland and am so psyched about this great guide to art and design around the city. :)

p.s. melt has awesome food.

Carrie said:
July 31st, 2008 - 2:41 pm

I lived in Cleveland for 25 years and you really made me want to go back for a vacation to check out all that I missed out on with my girls!!! I think I might just do that!!!!!! Kudos!

Moira said:
July 31st, 2008 - 2:47 pm

Yay Cleveland. My home town! Although it was not so hip in the 70’s. Well done. you made me homesick and very intrigued to go back and explore.

kasha said:
July 31st, 2008 - 4:59 pm

Thanks for the great guide to Cleveland. I lived in the area for my first 32 years & am familiar with many of the places you listed. I’ll use this guide on my next trip home. I was especially excited to see businesses run by an old friend and a college classmate, Gypsy Beans & Baking Co and The Glass Bubble Project, respectively. Thanks, again!

beth said:
August 1st, 2008 - 5:35 pm

Bent Crayon is overpriced, the best record store in Cleveland, hands down is My Mind’s Eye in Lakewood on Madison.

LaDonna said:
August 1st, 2008 - 11:17 pm

Flower Child and Suite Lorain were my little secret! Did you include the Christmas Story movie house in Tremont?

Michelle said:
August 2nd, 2008 - 1:18 am

This is an awesome guide to some wonderful places in Cleveland. I have lived in Cleveland all my life, and have been to many of the places listed, and yet there are so many more still to try. There is also a great mix of neighborhoods throughout the city, and yet so many more places which are not listed and one can just come upon when out and about.

kim said:
August 3rd, 2008 - 8:30 am

I wish I would’ve had this info two weeks ago when I was in town! Awesome! My daughter will be attending Cleveland Institute of Art. I am thrilled to know there is so much for her to experience and see.

Mary said:
August 4th, 2008 - 10:28 am

I just moved back to Cleveland (Shaker Hts) after 20 years away, and it’s been great rediscovering the city. Thanks Danielle, for more ideas. Incidentally, I wandered into Danielle’s shop this past Saturday for the first time, and it’s wonderful. She has a great curatorial eye. For lovers of Vietnamese cuisine, Minh Anh, mentioned above, has the best pho EVER, and Nighttown, also mentioned, is a premier jazz club (on Down Beat’s list of the best jazz clubs in the world)–and if you like jazz, Cleveland Bop Stop on the West side is also fantastic.

August 6th, 2008 - 5:36 pm

Really great guide — it pointed out a few new-to-me things, even though I’ve been a Clevelander most of my life. Cleveland also has a large and thriving Etsy team: http://clevelandhandmade.com

August 6th, 2008 - 9:09 pm

Our group had a wonderful art and architecture tour in Cleveland in 2006. See photos and commentary at: http://www.tcscm.org/cleveland.

Michele said:
August 7th, 2008 - 7:41 am

Glad Danielle took the time to compile this list, which is a great start with so many more FANTASTIC places to mention: Big Fun on Coventry, Planet Green on Old Detroit, Paul Duda Gallery in Tremont. Cleveland truly rocks for those who seek out all that each area offers. I encourage everyone to check out complete listings for every area of town: University Circle, Little Italy, Coventry, Cedar Lee, Tremont, Ohio City, Midtown, Slavic Village, Gordon Square, Collinwood Art/ Waterloo, etc. It’s easy to do online and a little research will pay dividends. You can learn about cross promotions of neighboring retailers, bike routes to get to the destination area, restaurant deals. Show Cleveland some love!

Michael said:
August 8th, 2008 - 9:14 am

I don’t quite understand how Chagrin Falls ends up on a “best of” Cleveland list - and what if I don’t want to deal with criminals and hipsters on the near weat side?

Ric said:
August 19th, 2008 - 10:29 am

Great list. I discovered tons of new things to do…even though I’ve been a Clevelander all my life. Thanks for compiling the list. One you missed in Coventry is the Inn on Coventry-best pancakes ever!

Shakerite said:
October 27th, 2008 - 10:13 pm

You should add Larchmere to the list of Shaker Square area destinations– antique stores, a good used book store and some restaurants. Elegant extras, esp. has great antique dishes, furniture and jewelry– and they’re willing to bargain with you!

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