Best Restaurants in Cleveland (2025)

A heartfelt ode to Midwestern cooking on East 4th, Cordelia pairs farmers’ market sourcing with playful, memory-packed plates. Praised by Cleveland Scene and recognized with James Beard attention, it’s a modern standard-bearer for Cleveland dining.

Doug Katz’s lively Middle Eastern spot makes mezze the main event—warm pita, vibrant spreads, and shareable plates that keep the table buzzing. Frequently cited by Eater and celebrated by local critics, it’s a must on the east side.

In Hingetown, Amba channels Indian flavors through a shareable, cocktail-friendly menu—think ghee-basted shrimp, vibrant chaat, and rich curries. Featured by Eater and often praised by local editors, it’s inventive without losing soul.

Jill Vedaa and Jessica Parkison turned a century-old house into a polished bistro where seasonal plates and smart desserts shine. Frequently highlighted by Eater and Cleveland Magazine, it’s a beautiful expression of Larchmere’s artsy spirit.

Detroit Shoreway’s cult-favorite pie shop delivers blistered New York–style pizzas and neighborhood energy night after night. Consistently lauded by Cleveland Scene and readers’ polls, it’s the local benchmark for pizza in 2025.

Newly reopened in the former Nighttown space, EDWINS fuses classic French cooking with a nationally recognized mission training returning citizens. Covered by Crain’s and honored by the James Beard Foundation in 2025, it’s purpose-driven fine dining.

Karen Small’s daytime darling draws from Appalachian traditions—cornmeal waffles, biscuits, thoughtfully sourced produce—and has expanded with occasional dinner services. Championed by Cleveland Scene and Eater, it’s Ohio City’s feel-good fixture.

AsiaTown’s standby for soup dumplings and Shanghai-style noodles pairs craft with comfort. A regular on Eater’s Cleveland lists and a favorite of local writers, it’s where many first fall for xiao long bao in the city.

In Buckeye, Kedemah and Melissa McHugh serve jerk chicken over wood smoke, silky peanut porridge, and deeply comforting oxtails. Eater spotlighted the restaurant’s rise from pop-up to brick-and-mortar—community flavor, plain and simple.

Tremont’s intimate sushi bar remains a destination for pristine fish and careful craft, with reservations often essential. Repeatedly honored by Cleveland Scene readers and critics, it’s the city’s perennial sushi benchmark.