Cleveland’s dining scene is experiencing a remarkable renaissance, with 2025 bringing an impressive wave of new restaurants that showcase the city’s culinary ambition and diversity.
From modern steakhouses to ethnic fusion concepts, these establishments are giving Clevelanders compelling reasons to eat out and explore.
Artis
Cleveland’s hottest new steakhouse brings Miami-inspired energy and style to the city. Artis has quickly become the place to see and be seen, combining top-quality beef with creative small plates in a sophisticated setting.
What to Order: The charbroiled steaks are the main event, showcasing prime cuts prepared with precision. But don’t skip the small plates—they’re anything but an afterthought, with creative preparations that blend Latin influences with steakhouse classics.
The Signature Experience: Start with inventive appetizers that set the tone for a meal that’s both indulgent and refined. The wine program emphasizes big, bold bottles that stand up to the rich flavors.
The Vibe: Upscale and energetic, with design elements that feel more South Beach than Midwest. The atmosphere is celebratory, making it perfect for special occasions and impressive date nights.
Bad Medicine
This unique listening bar concept combines eclectic cocktails with approachable dishes in an intimate environment where the music takes center stage.
The Concept: Bad Medicine is part craft cocktail bar, part vinyl listening room. The carefully curated music selection creates an immersive atmosphere where conversation mingles with great tunes.
What to Drink & Eat: The cocktail program showcases creativity and technical skill, with drinks that are complex yet balanced. The food menu features approachable dishes that complement the drinks without overwhelming the senses.
Why It Works: In an era of loud, crowded bars, Bad Medicine offers something different—a place where you can actually hear the music and your friends, while enjoying expertly crafted drinks.
The Scene: Intimate and sophisticated, with a loyal following that appreciates the attention to detail in every aspect of the experience.
Kiln
European-influenced small plates designed for sharing have found a home at Kiln, where family-style dining meets refined technique.
The Approach: Kiln’s menu showcases dishes meant to be shared, encouraging communal dining experiences. The European roots show through in the techniques and flavor profiles, while the execution is decidedly modern.
Menu Highlights: Expect creative vegetable preparations, perfectly executed proteins, and shareable plates that encourage exploration. The seasonal menu keeps regulars coming back to try new creations.
What Makes It Special: The family-style format creates a convivial atmosphere where meals become social experiences. The food is sophisticated enough for special occasions but approachable enough for regular visits.
The Space: Contemporary and warm, with design elements that encourage lingering and conversation. The open layout creates energy without sacrificing intimacy.
Oliva Steakhouse
Rustic Italian influences meet classic steakhouse traditions at Oliva, where both modern and traditional preparations showcase top-quality ingredients.
The Menu: Oliva bridges the gap between Italian trattorias and American steakhouses, offering dry-aged steaks alongside house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and Italian classics.
Standout Dishes: The steaks are expertly prepared, but the Italian specialties are equally impressive. House-made pastas, antipasti, and Italian wine selections remind you that this isn’t your typical steakhouse.
The Setting: Rustic elegance with Italian-inspired design elements creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The space feels both upscale and comfortable, perfect for celebrations or romantic dinners.
Why It’s Winning: Oliva offers versatility—whether you’re craving a perfect steak or authentic Italian cuisine, the kitchen delivers with skill and consistency.
Westsiders
Bringing downtown Cleveland’s trendy dining scene to Rocky River, Westsiders has become a neighborhood destination for innovative takes on local favorites.
The Concept: Westsiders understands what made downtown Cleveland restaurants successful and brings that energy and creativity to the suburbs, offering elevated comfort food in a welcoming environment.
What to Expect: Creative interpretations of Cleveland classics alongside contemporary dishes that showcase seasonal ingredients. The menu balances familiarity and innovation.
The Neighborhood Impact: Westsiders has quickly become a community gathering spot, proving that you don’t need to head downtown for excellent food and a great atmosphere.
The Vibe: Casual and energetic, with a neighborhood bar feel elevated by genuinely good food. It’s the kind of place that works for everything from family dinners to nights out with friends.
Birdietown
Lakewood’s surprising dining destination is turning heads with creative comfort food that goes well beyond expectations.
What Makes It Surprising: Birdietown has become an unexpected hit, offering food that’s more ambitious than you’d expect. The commitment to quality and creativity has made it a destination worth seeking out.
The Food: Creative comfort dishes that feel familiar yet elevated. The kitchen isn’t afraid to take risks, and the results are consistently impressive.
Why Visit: Birdietown represents the best of neighborhood dining—approachable, consistent, and genuinely delicious, with enough creativity to keep things interesting.
The Atmosphere: Relaxed and welcoming, with a loyal local following that appreciates the quality and value.
Get the All-American Travel Secrets!
Don't miss out on America's hidden gems!
