The Best Restaurants In Cleveland Heights Ohio

Cleveland Heights isn’t a place downtowners often look to for their culture fix, but The Heights has a burgeoning art scene, galleries and an independent movie theater. This area also has an impressive roster of great dining options, so take a break and try the best restaurants here.
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Marotta’s

Marotta’s, which opened in 2000, has flown largely under the radar as one of the best Italian restaurants in Cleveland. A husband-and-wife team, owners Brian and Alicia Marotta, have designed this spot with an air of classic Tuscany. The diamond-checkered floors lead to an elevated outdoor terrace contained by an exposed brick perimeter, across from a rustic brick oven in the kitchen. To accompany the antipasti is a list of over 300 wines, exclusively of Italian origin, and a happy hour from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM on weekdays.

2289 Lee Rd, Cleveland, OH, (216) 932-9264

Tomato bruschetta with mozzarella and herbs

Gigi’s on Fairmount is a neighborhood favorite for locals south of the Cedar Lee district. Originally only an interior restaurant space, Gigi’s has expanded to include outdoor patio seating and a cocktail bar, ‘Gigi’s After Dark.’ The decor can only be described as chic, with low crystal chandeliers over modern table seating, and the walls that are a sleek black with neon yellow accents. The menu consists of a selection of homemade soups and salads, chef’s choice entrees that change daily, and Gigi’s renowned bruschetta boards. An extensive wine list is available, so trust the knowledgeable staff to make a recommendation.

MoMo’s Kebab

MoMo’s Kebab, a Moroccan restaurant that opened here recently is faced with some stiff culinary competition in the area, but has already proved a worthy addition to the neighborhood. The interior space is bright and exotic, with colorful stencil spire designs on the walls and luxurious couch seating by the windows. This spot is dine-in only to ensure that the food is as fresh as possible. Traditional Moroccan dishes such as aromatic lamb tagines and skewered kebabs over couscous are infused with Southern European flavors. Don’t miss the beautiful ceramic food containers with hand-crafted designs.

Mister Brisket

Flat-lay of pastrami sandwich in sourdough bread with cheese

Although many consider Slyman’s to be the best corned beef spot in Cleveland, Mister Brisket, a humble butchery that doubles as a sandwich shop, stands to challenge that title. A simple blackboard menu behind the meat counter lists the sandwich selection, which includes corned beef, pastrami, and brisket entrees. Locals swear by the quality of the meat. Don’t miss the matzo ball soup, roasted beef brisket and potato knish side orders.

2156 S. Taylor Rd, Cleveland, OH, (216) 932-8620

Pacific East Japanese Restaurant

Pacific East Japanese Restaurant (or ‘Pac East’ to locals) is a rare find for Clevelanders as one of the few outstanding Asian restaurants in the area. This spot offers both Japanese and Malay cuisine, employing chefs from each respective origin and mastering both of them. An extensive sushi menu is available, made with only the freshest ingredients, in addition to other Japanese small plates. The Malay selection includes roti canai, unleavened bread cooked on a griddle and served with curry sauce, as well as coconut laksa.

Luna Bakery Cafe

Started by pastry chef Bridget Thibeault, Luna Bakery Cafe is an excellent spot for light brunch fare and French pastries. The interior is large and the door is often left open which leads to outdoor patio seating, giving Luna a refreshing en pleine air vibe. Paninis, salads, and sweet and savory crepes make up the bulk of the menu, but the specialty at Luna is most definitely the desserts. In front of the marble counter top is a tantalizing pastry counter with French macarons, scones and cakes.

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