Best Lunch Spots in Cleveland (2025)

The Football Fans' Guide to Cleveland Food

At Slyman’s Restaurant, corned beef sandwiches are treated like a work of art — the deli, founded by Joseph Slyman in 1964, piles massive layers of tender, well-seasoned corned beef on fresh rye from Orlando Baking Company, often served simply or as a Reuben with kraut, cheese, and dressing, alongside a crisp pickle and potato salad. Fans routinely flock and stand in long lines on game days, and Sam Slyman (the founder’s grandson) credits their cooking, trimming, and seasoning methods for keeping the corned beef tender and flavorful. - Wendy Pramik

A new‑school Jewish/Eastern European deli inside a restored firehouse, known for koji‑cured pastrami, ferments, and a daily‑changing menu. James Beard–recognized and profiled by national food writers.

AsiaTown’s pho standard‑bearer pours long‑simmered broth and builds excellent bánh mì. Consistently praised by local critics and named Best Pho by Cleveland Scene readers.

Steamer baskets of xiao long bao headline, but the menu ranges from spicy beef noodles to soy‑sauce duck. Regularly cited by Eater as one of the city’s essential restaurants.

A cornerstone of Asia Plaza with daily dim sum service and Cantonese specialties. Voted Best Chinese Restaurant by Cleveland Scene and celebrated as a pillar of the neighborhood.

Inside a bustling Latino grocery, the taqueria turns out standout tacos, tortas, and tamales. Highlighted by Eater for authentic flavors and a loyal local following.

Hand‑rolled, malt‑boiled bagels with smart sandwiches and creative schmears make a quick, satisfying lunch. Reader‑voted Best Bagels by Cleveland Scene.

An independent brewery where the kitchen matters as much as the beer. Eater applauds the elevated pub menu—think excellent sandwiches, wings, and nachos—ideal for a casual downtown lunch.

Chef Karen Small’s bright daytime diner riffs on Appalachian staples—cornmeal waffles, griddled potatoes, seasonal salads—earning praise from local critics and devoted brunch‑to‑lunch regulars.

Part Mediterranean market, part lively café, Astoria shines at lunch with mezze, salads, and sandwiches. Named Best Brunch by Cleveland Scene and a perennial editors’ pick.

A century‑old Italian grocer with a beloved weekday hot‑line and deli. Featured by local media for its role in Cleveland’s food history and its bustling lunchtime crowd.

Across from the West Side Market, this family‑run spot serves Lebanese staples—silky hummus, shawarma, stuffed grape leaves—and hefty deli sandwiches. Praised by Cleveland Scene for decades.