Cleveland Food Guide: The Best Restaurants with the Best Outdoor Seating
Now that we are finally out of our winter blues, we can leap into summer and spend more time outside. With the warm weather approaching, you now have the opportunity to find this year’s favorite outdoor restaurants with the best food and views in town. Below, we’ve compiled some of the best restaurants in and around Cleveland to grab a bite to eat and enjoy the summer sun. Located in the Flats, Merwin’s Wharf is a perfect spot for casual dining, locally sourced meal options and views of the iconic Cuyahoga River. There's no worrying about seating here, from their 110-seat restaurant to their large outdoor patio, you’ll be able to enjoy all the river views. The fresh and seasonal menu sticks to classic burgers, sandwiches, and family favorites. Many locals recommend the Crispy Perch Sandwich. Batuqui boasts an authentic Brazilian experience. Keeping their home in mind, the owners moved from the Bahia & Minas Gerais States of Brazil and brought the South American cuisine to Cleveland. The restaurant is in a restored house, so it has a homey atmosphere you’ll be sure to love. Try a Caipirinha -- Brazil’s National Cocktail -- and sample the exotic flavors of Moqueca, a Brazilian recipe based on saltwater fish stew in coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, garlic, coriander, and palm oil. Tucked away on River Street, this gem has a view of a waterfall! The view of Chagrin Waterfalls from the outdoor patio has been called one of the most unique outdoor dining experiences in the Cleveland area. Jekyll’s menu is a modern take on American classics, such as roasted and grilled meats, pasta, chicken, and seafood dishes, along with soups, salads, sandwiches, and pizzas. Their garden grape vines, which were brought from Italy, will have you saying, “that’s amore!” Open since 1916, this Italian favorite is Cleveland's oldest restaurant. Originally, it was opened as a speakeasy during prohibition! How’s that for history? Get a taste of “Little Italy” that will take you back to Cleveland’s roots with Guarino’s. They even feature a gluten-free menu! Take in the live entertainment every Saturday, as you enjoy great lake views and a great selection of all-American sandwiches, burgers, and wraps. For a delicious, flavorful option, try the Firecracker Shrimp. This will make your tastebuds go crazy with shrimp that is tossed in a sweet and spicy chili sauce and topped with pico de gallo. It’s Friday and you are on the hunt for tacos and guacamole. Look no further. Nuevo has an exciting and casual atmosphere that offers upscale Mexican cuisine. With a unique design concept, Nuevo offers rooftop, patio and indoor seating with a 360-degree view of Cleveland’s skyline. Try the plantain fritters for a Caribbean treat before your meal. Raise a glass and your altitude on Azure’s rooftop lounge, which offers amazing views of Cleveland’s iconic skyline. Enjoy happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and snack on fresh starters like artichoke hummus, coconut shrimp, and savory ahi tostadas. With one of the most innovative menus you will find, Chef Jonathon Sawyer brings his years of New York City-restaurant knowledge to every dish. “The Greenhouse Tavern hews to the primal experiences of rustic eating - food licked by fire and smoke, by fermentation, by dark, woodsy umami flavors - and almost always translated through top-shelf techniques,” says the Cleveland Plain Dealer. The restaurant also offers a Brunch menu, perfect for your Sunday morning. Sometimes you need the familiarity of your local Irish pub. You’ll find that and more at The Harp with features that aim to please. The menu offers a wide selection of local and imported beers, wines, liquors, traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine and a gorgeous patio with great city views. Voted the best Irish Pub of 2018, you'll be sure to enjoy any menu item. Try the Beer-battered fish filet sandwich for a new spin on the classic fish and chips! We couldn’t complete our list without a brewery. Noble Beast is a lively taproom for house-brewed beers & elevated bar snacks, sandwiches and salads. With high ceilings and a large glass garage door that opens on to Lakeside Avenue, you can enjoy the bustling but comfortable inside as well as the open air of the outside. When it comes to outdoor dining in Cleveland, there's something for everyone. Whether you are craving a burger and fries or want to indulge in Brazilian cuisine you can be sure to enjoy your meal and the summer weather.
