Whether you like it covered in meats or vegetables, smothered in red sauce, topped with gooey cheese, dripping with garlic, sprinkled with parmesan, deep dish, or thin-crusted; most of us can agree that pizza is a gift bestowed upon us by the food gods. But not all pizza is created equal, and it’s our mission to provide you with the information you need to satisfy your deepest darkest pizza cravings. There are hundreds of quality pizza joints in The Land, but here are a few of our favorite places you have to try.
Il Rione: We are listing this place first because it is run by two of the friendliest dudes we’ve ever met, and that isn’t even the best thing about this place. Their pizza is truly incredible — the sauce is so good that the cheese is just an added bonus to the ensemble, and the crust is crisped perfection. We love their location in Gordon Square that was renovated from a literal crack house into a chic yet cozy hang with an awesome patio. Il Rione means “the neighborhood” and we just love the way they make you feel like family whenever you stop by.
Citizen Pie: Self-professed “Pizza for the people”, Citizen Pie offers brick oven-baked Neopolitan pizza at their two locations in Ohio City and Waterloo. In true Italian style, the crust is thin and soft but durable enough to support the weight of mozzarella cheese and heart toppings. Order your pizza (and perhaps a bottle of wine) at the counter, then relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and pop art selection.
Edison’s: Everyone loves pizza by the slice! Edison’s may not have a reputation for being the best pizza to eat at 2 AM, but I can tell you first-hand that this pizza is good at all times of the day. Sober or not, this pizza is delicious. One amazing thing about Edison’s is that they go ALL out with the toppings, I’m pretty sure they’re on their way to setting a record for how many pepperonis can fit on one slice of pizza. This pizza is gooey and greasy and best drizzled with the honey packets that they provide. Enjoy it at the bar, playing a game of pool, or on their laid-back patio in the warmer months!
Harlow’s: I didn’t know how beautiful pizza could be until I visited Harlow’s. Known for their extremely aesthetic space (and Instagram) and quality ingredients, Harlow’s is sure to make you a believer. They have a small menu with five pizzas to choose from and no substitutions allowed, but only because they have perfected the art of pizza making and you just can’t mess with art. Harlow’s also happens to tout one of the most aesthetic patios in Lakewood. You may go to Harlow’s for the gram but you’ll stay for the pizza and refreshing cocktails.
That’s all for now but we are already planning our next ‘za post! What pizza joint should we check out next?
So you’re considering moving to Cleveland? I’m not surprised. Cleveland has a lot to offer, despite what you may have heard. It is being reborn as a vibrant city buzzing with possibility, alive with hope. Here are a few reasons why Cleveland is an awesome place to live right now.
The cost of living is extremely low, about 12% lower than the national average. If you are looking to live an urban lifestyle and have access to all the fun amenities that come with it but don’t want to shell out 3,000 dollars a month for a studio apartment, Cleveland may be right for you. Right now as I browse through apartments.com I am looking at a beautiful one bedroom, one bath, 1200 sq/ft loft in one of our more expensive neighborhoods for $1250. Wouldn’t it be nice to actually be able to afford to enjoy living in the city instead of living paycheck to paycheck for an apartment the size of a closet?
THE FOOD. Listen, I know everyone claims this about their city. But seriously, Cleveland has some truly incredible restaurants. Maybe it’s because we’re smack dab in the middle of farm country so produce and meats never have to travel very far, or because we’re located on a lake giving us access to plenty of fresh seafood… err lake-food? You may not have 50 options for each category like you would in New York or Chicago, but we guarantee you will never run out of delicious restaurants to try if you move to Cleveland.
Speaking of the lake, did we mention that we aren’t landlocked? Maybe it’s just us, but nothing soothes the soul like looking out over a huge body of water. Lake Erie might not be a swimmer or surfer’s dream, (although we have seen some pretty dedicated surfers shredding at Edgewater) but it sure is nice to get out on a boat or a jet-ski or just sit and have dinner on one of our many waterfront patios. There are a ton of beaches that you can take the kids or your dog to, or maybe just sit and enjoy the sunset over the lake. It’s a little piece of paradise on a warm summer day.
Have a bit of wanderlust? Another great thing about Cleveland is its location in relation to other US cities. Living in Cleveland we are able to do weekend trips in so many other fun places. We are a short drive from Pittsburgh, Chicago, Indianapolis, Columbus, Buffalo, Detroit, and Cincinnati. If you’re willing to go a bit farther, we are just about an eight-hour drive from New York City, Nashville, St. Louis, and Ashville, NC. Living in a post-Covid world, having so many cities you can visit without hopping on a plane is a huge benefit.
The people are SO nice here. Maybe it’s the midwest mindset, or they’ve been underdogs their entire life, from previously humbling sports teams to being dubbed “mistake on the lake”, Clevelanders have not been fed with a silver spoon. But what has come from that is a sense of brotherhood and kinsmanship that I’ve never experienced elsewhere. They are cheering for Cleveland, and in order to do that, they have to cheer for each other. There is a mindset of collaboration over competition here because when Cleveland succeeds, we all win. If you’re coming from LA or NYC — the level of politeness will blow your mind.
Afraid to live in the city because you don’t want to feel trapped in a concrete jungle? You MUST experience the Cleveland Metroparks. There are 18 reservations with over 100 hiking trails and nearly 23,000 acres of unadulterated nature await you. The Emerald Necklace is the perfect place to unwind and lose yourself in the great outdoors.
There are so many other perks of living in CLE that are coming to mind as I close out this list. The beautiful architecture, the shops, the Indians games, the fact that there is almost ZERO traffic here, as well so many other amazing things. If I’m being honest, though, reading this list is only but a step in the right direction. To experience the grit and the glory that is the Sixth City and to truly understand the quality of life that awaits you here, you have to come to see for yourself. We may just surprise you.
Have your best summer yet! Here’s a list of 75 things that you can do in Cleveland, most of them any day of the week. If you’re in The Land, boredom is not an option.
Have a picnic at Wendy Park
Get boujee by the pool at FWD Day + Night Club
Cool off with some shaved ice at Westcott’s Arctic Ice
Have a drink on the Collision Brewing Company Patio
Rent a jet-ski at Great Lakes Watersports
Do the shuffle at Forest City Shuffleboard
Play giant jenga at Nano Brew
Enjoy a glass of wine on the Rocky River Wine Bar patio
Have lunch by the water at Merwin’s Wharf
Take a hike in the Emerald Necklace
Behold a waterfall at the Rocky River Reservation
See a concert at Jacob’s Pavillion
Fly a kite at Edgewater Park
Check out the view from Azure Rooftop Lounge
Act like a kid at Cedar Point
Feed the giraffes at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Take a tour of the U.S.S. Cod
Take a stroll down East 4th St.
Watch the boats go by at Shooters on the Water
Enjoy University Circle, especially the Cleveland Art Museum (it’s free!)
Watch a movie under the stars in Coventry
Take your puppy to the Downtown Cleveland Dog Park
Have an ice cream cone at Mason’s Creamery
Hear local bands at Edgewater Live on Thursdays
Splash in the fountains at Cleveland Square
Waste a day in Margaritaville
Wine and dine under twinkling lights on the Vosh/Georgetown patio
Explore with Cleveland Cycle Tours
Go for a swim at Foster Pool
Feed the ducks at Clague or Walker Park
Take a ride on the Cleveland Brew Bus
Chill on the giant waterfront staircase at Lakewood Park
Live your best life on the patio at Platform Brewery
Spend the day at the Cleveland Museum of Art
Eat everything in sight at Little Italy
Ride scooters around downtown
Take a stroll down the Erie Canalway
Get spooked by the Haserot Angel
Drink something tropical at Porko
Visit one (or all) of Cleveland’s many community gardens
Sit by the fire at Das Schnitzel Haus
Play mini-golf and eat candy at Sweeties
Wine tasting at Heinen’s downtown
Enjoy a cup of fair trade, organic coffee on Dewey’s patio
Visit the market at Cavotta’s Garden Center
Take in the view at Voinovich Park
See the sights on Lolly Trolly
Check out a book from the Cleveland library, then read it outside
Drink frosé at The Plum
Get naughty-cal on The Goodtime III
Try paddleboard yoga at SUP Cle
Demolish a hot dog at Happy Dog
Visit the rooftop bar at Greenhouse Tavern
Pasta on the patio at Lockkeepers
Have a beer or play volleyball at Whiskey Island
Party your pants off on the Punchbowl Social roof deck
Go shopping and eat lunch at Crocker Park or Pinecrest
Reel in your catch on Fishcrazy Charters
Learn to rock climb at Nosotros
Explore nature at Brookside Reservation
Play kickball at Tuland Park
See the skyline at Bar 32
Walk around the shops in Gordon Square (or Shaker) Square.
Eat a corndog on a picnic table at Larder
Bask in the sun at Euclid Beach Park or Huntington Beach
Take pictures at the Cleveland script signs
Go to the reflection pond at University Circle
Watch the baseball game on the huge screen on the patio at Jukebox
Ride bikes on the Tow Path
Play volleyball at Mulberry’s in the Flats
See CLE from a new angle on a helicopter tour with Paratus Air
Kayak on the Cuyahoga River
Have a refreshing bubble tea at Thai Thai
Throwdown at Cleveland Axe Throwing
Drink and drive at Topgolf (get it?)
Go-karting at Airport Go-Karts
Visit Squires Castle! Wear hiking boots to explore the woods behind it.
How many of these can you check off this summer? Anything on your summer to-do list that we missed?
This is the most official and up-to-date list of the 27 signs you are a Clevelander.
It’s called pop, not soda
If you could, you would STILL make Lebron James the godfather of your children
You live on either the East or West side and rarely venture over to the other side… not because you have anything against it but it’s just really inconvenient.
You know that there really are only two seasons in Cleveland: Winter and Construction.
You know what midges/Canadian Soldiers are and you FREAKING HATE THEM
You love Lake Erie but you don’t really want to swim in it…
You have incredibly high standards for grocery stores
And beer
In fact, you probably still have a Great Lakes Christmas Ale sitting in your fridge from last holiday season
You believe your accent is one of the purest in America
You know better than to go to Tower City Mall by yourself.
You are genuinely shocked when someone says they haven’t been to Cedar Point or Put-in-Bay
You still call it Jacob’s Field
You’ve eaten pierogies more than 4 times in your life
Every time you drive past the Burke Lakefront Airport you get angry at the wasted real estate
You were shocked to find out that black squirrels aren’t everywhere
You leave your windshield scraper in your car year-round
You know that THIS is the year the Browns will finally make it to the Superbowl again
You know someone who has a Fount Leather Goods bag or you have one of your own
You have thought about getting a symbolic tattoo for Cleveland (Bonus point if you actually got one)
You would probably vote for Michael Symon if he ran for Mayor
Without fail, you take every out-of-towner to see the West Side Market
You’ve never actually been inside the Rock + Roll Hall of Fame
You spend as much time outside as humanly possible during the warmer months
You feel an intense sense of pride for A Christmas Story and Superman. YOU ARE WELCOME, WORLD.
You are sick of hearing about the Cuyahoga River Fire. Let’s move on, shall we?
You think about moving on a weekly basis but…
No matter where you go, Cleveland always feels like home.
Any other trademark signs of a true Clevelander? Leave them in the comments.
If you follow along with Beth Opfer you know that she is a local MS, RDN, LDN, and a certified QT (get it?) But seriously, what I love most about Beth (apart from her sweet personality) is her laid-back philosophy that encourages everyone to find the balance between eating healthy and giving yourself the grace to indulge in the foods you love! Her goal is to inspire others to feel their best – not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well. You can find Beth on Instagram at @bethandfood or follow along with her blog, www.bethandfood.com! I hope you get as much value from this list of her favorite healthy eats in Cleveland as I did.
Salt : There’s a reason Chef Jill Vedaa was named a semi-finalist for the 2018 James Beard Foundation Best Chef: Great Lakes. The small plates. The crafted cocktails. The attention to detail and every flavor. It’s what sets this restaurant apart from others. I’d recommend ordering a few small plates and share with your loved ones. Their menu also changes seasonally to reflect the best local ingredients and flavor of foods. Order a cocktail you’ve never had and you’ll love it. You can’t go wrong here. And chances are, you’ll likely see Chef Jill socializing with her customers so be sure to say hi! My favorite dishes to date: White Bean Puree (Vegetables), Polenta Fries (Vegetables), Caramelized Baby Carrots (Vegetables), and Halibut (Fish).
Spice Kitchen & Bar: Truly a farm to fork eatery. So true that they even provide the map of their farm to show where their food is grown. I mean, how cool. Also meaning their menu changes seasonally to provide the most nutrient-dense, local ingredients full of flavor. Their patio is also a place to be in the summer. Not only is Spice a kitchen and bar in Cleveland, they also offer events at their farm in Brecksville. I had the opportunity to attend a Spice Acres event in 2017 where my husband and I toured the farm, walked over to the beautiful barn (definitely would have had my wedding here had I known about this place!) and enjoyed a multi-course meal of plant-based foods with wine pairings. My favorite dishes to date: Killbuck Valley Mushroom Flatbread (Shareables), Polenta Chickpea Fries (Shareables), Pan Roasted Atlantic Sea Scallops (Substantials), Local Greens Salad (Bar Menu) and Fried Lake Erie Creamery Cheese Curds (Bar Menu).
Toast: One of my favorite happy hour/bar spots in Cleveland. Toast has one of the best vibes, in my opinion. Very relaxing. Great service. In the Gordon Square Arts District, Toast is a great place to grab an always house-made bite to eat. My hands down favorite place to eat buffalo cauliflower bites! They also have a trio of toast daily (hence the name!) that is always a good choice. Always. The menu also changes seasonally so you can never get bored. In the summertime, grab a spot on the patio because it is definitely a crowd favorite. My favorite dishes here to date: Buffalo Cauliflower (Small Plates), Trio of Toast (Snacks), and Chef’s Whim Greens (Small Plates).
The Plum: This place is definitely bar and restaurant goals. The coolest ambiance. If there is one restaurant in Cleveland that I could dream of picking it up and making it fit into my house, it would be The Plum. The all-white backsplash bar and the exposed brick walls – so dreamy. The food and the service are even better. I love this place because you can tell that each dish is well thought out. It serves a purpose on their menu. They offer a variety of plates from small to large on all their menus, giving customers a chance to order a few dishes to share. The menu changes so it doesn’t stay stagnant. There is a reason The Plum was voted best new restaurant in 2017 by Cleveland Magazine. They offer a bar only menu with small bites, dinner menu with a variety of sized plates and brunch on Saturdays. Also, The Plum has one of my favorite patios with live music and conveniently located next to the Platform Brewery (my favorite brewery in Cleveland!). My favorite dishes here to date: Beet Taco (Small Plate, Dinner Menu), House Salad (Medium Plate, Dinner Menu), Brussels Sprouts (Medium Plate, Dinner Menu) and the Spicy Grain Bowl (Brunch Menu; with a mimosa of course!).
Le Petit Triangle Café: This place gives me all the Paris vibes and I love it! Le Petit is a Parisian café offering the best coffee and pastries, as well as midday and evening meals. But let’s talk about what they are really known for: brunch. Seriously, best.brunch.ever. Located in Ohio City, this restaurant’s goal for the past 10 years has been to make sure customers feel right at home with their friends and family, eating good food and drinking a beverage of choice, whether that be a coffee, cocktail, wine or beer (or all the above). They have it all. Expect a wait on a Saturday morning but believe me when I say it is worth the wait. My favorite dishes to date: French Toast (Brunch Menu; it’s a must try!), Ratatouille (Brunch; Savory Crepes), and their Pumpkin Latte.
Flying Fig: The Flying Fig is a small eatery and bar that is one of my favorite places to grab brunch or a small bite to eat. It is also one of my favorite places to grab a spot at the bar and enjoy happy hour. One of the many reasons I love this place so much is their effort to offer locally sourced foods with a true farm to fork environment. The Flying Fig prides itself on supporting local, small family farms. Karen Small, owner and head chef, is also a semi-finalist for the 2018 James Beard Foundation Best Chef: Great Lakes. Definitely well deserved. If you go when it isn’t too busy (which is rare) and the weather is nice, grab one of the few tables outside on their patio. My favorite dishes to date: Taleggio Polenta (Brunch Menu), Grilled Eggplant (Brunch Menu), Avocado Toast (Brunch Menu), Tofu Banh Mi Bowl (Lunch + Dinner Menu) and the Trio of Toast (Of the Day).
Townhall: I can’t name my favorite places to eat and not mention this place. Townhall is a non-GMO restaurant located in the heart of Ohio City on W. 25th Street. They offer a wide selection of healthy, feel-good meals, from sustainably sourced meats to high-quality vegan options. They understand that nutrition is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach so they go above and beyond to cater to all dietary preferences, from Paleo/Keto to Vegan options. To make it even better, their beverage choices are just like the food: top notch, offering zero-toxin, 100% organic coffee, organic cold-pressed juices and a great selection of beers showcasing local whenever possible. Definitely one of my favorites to go for a date night, vegan night, to watch a Cleveland sports game or for a holiday. They always do it right. My favorite dishes here to date: Acai+Grainless Granola Bowl (Brunch Menu), Caramelized Brussel Sprouts/Harissa Roasted Cauliflower (Organic Earth Bites), Townhall Veggie Burger (Pickups), Root Organic and Cold Pressed Juice and Pureed Acai (Smoothies).
The Grocery: Every time I walk into The Grocery, I smile. That’s how happy this place makes me. They probably know my name by now because I am a regular. No shame whatsoever. They also know Kip (my fur baby) because he comes along for the ride, and the peanut butter. The Grocery is a grab-and-go café from hot breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches and wraps, cold pressed juices, bowls and salads and smoothies. They also sell local edibles such as locally sourced produce, pasta and pasta sauces as well as dairy products. They proudly display the local farms where they are sourcing their ingredients from on the walls which is super cool. My favorite dishes to date: Vegan Fare wrap (all the local/seasonal vegetables with a house cashew dressing wrapped in a tortilla shell; sandwiches) and the PB&J smoothie (almond milk, peanut butter, banana, strawberry and I add hemp protein; smoothies). Not sure who loves this place more: me or Kip. Beet Jar: If I had to vote for a place that has hands down the coolest vibes, it would probably be Beet Jar. A small storefront with so much character. Beet Jar is a juice bar and grab-and-go vegan takeaway. Outstanding services and even better food. All their choices are made in-house, from their cold-pressed juices to the vegan sandwiches and chia pudding (so good!). My all-time favorite sandwich is from here: the Bravocado, which contains smoked coconut flakes, avocado, greens, red onion, house-made cashew mayo on whole grain bread (other options also available). Get it and thank me later. They definitely do it right here. I actually want to take one of their walls (yes an entire wall) and place it in my home. Some of my other favorites to date: Flavored Raw Cashew Mylk (Drinks in the Cooler), Strawberry Alarm Clock (Raw Smoothies), and Mr. Presley (Raw Smoothies).
There you have it! Nine amazing places to add to your list of places to try in Cleveland. Where do you go for a healthy bite?
One of my favorite Cleveland foodies to follow along with is Claire from @cle_food – her colorful feed always leaves me feeling hungry. Anyone who has followed her on her foodie escapades knows that the girl loves her some ice cream! That’s why I’m so glad she has taken the time to share with us her favorite ice cream spots in The Land
Ice cream is a good idea year round, but now that it’s summer I think it’s time that you get the scoop (pun intended) on what some of the best ice cream shops in The Land are.
Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream: You know it’s good when there is a line out the door in the dead of Cleveland winter. Everyone in Cleveland knows and loves Mitchell’s Ice Cream. With their huge variety of flavors (including some dairy free and vegan friendly options), quality ingredients, and generous portions, what is there not to love? With over 30 flavors of ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt, there is truly something for everybody at Mitchell’s. I honestly don’t know if I could say what my favorite flavor here is because every single one (and trust me, I’ve tried all of them) is incredible. Each batch of ice cream is hand crafted at their Ohio City kitchen, and you can go at any time to watch the process of how the ice cream is made. Another thing I love about Mitchell’s is that they support other local companies. A lot of the ingredients found in the ice cream at Mitchell’s Ice Cream are sourced from local farmers and friends such as their berries (Greenfield Farms), nuts (Hillson Nut Co.), milk and cream (Hartzler Family Dairy), and many more. So go to Mitchells and order a scoop (or two), a milkshake, or a sundae sundae, and trust me, you will leave a lot happier than when you walk in.
Mason’s Creamery: If you’re on Instagram, you’ve probably seen Mason’s Creamery. With aesthetic wall murals and cute lights, Mason’s is a very Insta-worthy ice cream shop. Although you might go for the gram, you’ll definitely want to keep coming back after for the unique and always changing flavors of ice cream. At Mason’s Creamery, they make small batches of handmade ice cream, so they are always testing out different flavors like taro, black sesame, French toast, and Dunkaroos just to name a few. I am constantly going back because if you go back on different weeks, you will have a completely new flavor selection to choose from! On weekends they also offer soft serve, which I am seriously obsessed with because it is the perfect creamy texture. If you’re not there on a weekend though, I recommend getting your scoops of ice cream on their egg waffle with a flavored whipped cream on top. I promise you won’t regret it.
Piccadilly Artisan Creamery: When you order ice cream at Piccadilly Artisan Creamery, you’ll see that they take liquid ice cream and mix it with liquid nitrogen. Although your order might take a little longer to put together because of this, it is so worth it. This freezing process doesn’t just look really cool; it also results in an extra creamy ice cream (I had no clue ice cream could be so creamy until I tried this place) because the extremely fast freezing process minimizes the size of ice crystals in the ice cream. Not only is the ice cream here super creamy, but also every one of their flavors is incredible. Piccadilly Creamery takes pride in only using fresh quality ingredients (there’s only about 6 or ingredients in each ice cream), and the quality of their ingredients is evident when you take your first bite. This is a great place to hang out with friends or go on a date to because the atmosphere is so cute, and they have board games available to play while you eat your ice cream.
Sweet Moses: Two things that have a special place in my heart are ice cream and nostalgia, so when I first discovered Sweet Moses, I was in love. Located in the heart of Cleveland’s Gordon Arts District, Sweet Moses will take you right back to the 1950’s. This old-timey soda fountain, ice cream, and candy shop has truly mastered the classics and is the place to go to if you are looking for simple, classic, really good ice cream. Let me be honest, ifyou are looking for a small scoop of light ice cream or sorbet, you might be better off going to one of the previous ice cream shops talked about in this article. Sweet Moses isthe place to go to if you want a scoop of ice cream that is more like 3 scoops that has somehow been formed into one ball (seriously, the portions are huge) or a sundae that is big enough to feed a family of four. This classic neighborhood is a must try if you want to “treat yo’ self”. If it weren’t for the sake of my health, you’d see me here every day.
Now get out there + eat some ice cream, it’s good for your soul and much cheaper than therapy.
We recently had the pleasure of working with Clean Remedies to review their CBD oil tincture and roller ball to test its effects. In case you have been hiding under a rock, CBD is essentially a way of obtaining all the health benefits of marijuana without any of the psychoactive properties. Sound too good to be true? Well, don’t you worry – we tried it out and are here to tell you all about our experience.
I’m a pretty relaxed person, to be honest. I don’t get stressed out too easily. One of my many skills is that I can fall asleep on at the drop of a dime ANYWHERE. I am the queen of sleeping on airplanes. My husband Kyle, on the other hand will admit to stressing out over pretty inconsequential things… pretty much all the time. Sound like anyone you know? So when we started using CBD oil, honestly I didn’t feel the effects right away, but my husband displayed properties of “zen” almost immediately. I noticed it most in his lack of road rage, he notices it most in his ability to relax in situations where he’d normally feel anxiety.
Update: During my postpartum period I’ve experienced more anxiety than I’m used to, so I’ve tried Clean Remedies tincture again when it’s starting and found it to be very helpful in keeping me a bit more tranquil during this season of life.
Where I personally noticed the most significant difference while taking CBD oil tincture is the quality of my sleep. I fell slept heavier and woke up every morning feeling much more rested. Since I am SO good at sleeping, getting out of bed in the morning is a bit of a struggle but I generally feel more refreshed after an evening where I’ve used the tincture. I’ll be honest, I try to only use it when I’m feeling restless so that I don’t build a tolerance to it.
Kyle + I both took the oil by placing it under our tongues for 30 seconds – it’s practically tasteless but I still washed it down with a sip of water because….its oily. I’ve also heard of people adding into their smoothies!
CBD oil helps not only the anxious and sleep deprived but also helps with pain relief and inflammation and the Clean Remedies roller ball is incredible for this. You roll it onto anywhere you’re feeling achy and it immediately brings relief. It makes the area a little tingly, a bit like icy-hot which I absolutely love. If I could recommend trying one thing from the Clean Remedies line up, it would be this.
Clean Remedies’ mission is to enhance the quality of life through natural hemp products and promote more natural well-being. BEST OF ALL – it’s made right here in Cleveland. We love to support local + help make Cleveland even more chill. Check out their Instagram and get some CBD oil + be sure to comment slide into the @clevelandvibes DM’s to let us know what you think!
Fresh Fix – This small grab-and-go sandwich and smoothie shop took us by complete surprise. We went in expecting sugary fruit smoothies and basic sandwiches, only to discover they serve a large menu of healthy and tasty sandwiches. Plus, Fresh Fix boasts a stellar lineup of fruit and veggie smoothies named after our favorite ‘90s artists (try the Madonna Mango, Fresh Prince, and C-Low Green, for example). Fresh Fix has several vegan and vegetarian options, all reasonably priced, making it a stand-by for locals to enjoy regularly. Bonus: the shop is decorated with fun photos and art of ‘90s icons including TLC, Zack Morris, and Michael Jackson.
Boss Dog Brewing – Cleveland has such a fun brewery scene, but our favorite in Cleveland Heights is hands down Boss Dog Brewing. It’s only been open for less than a year, but it became a Lee Road staple this summer, partly due to their spacious outdoor patio. We recommend trying the red potato and cheddar pierogi, plus a few items off their bar snack menu.
Photo via Anatolia Café of Kazandibi, a Turkish dessert
Anatolia Café – A taste of Turkey in Cleveland! We love the atmosphere of this family-friendly Turkish & Mediterranean restaurant that has won over East Siders the past 10 years. The food is just as authentic as the staff, who would stop at tables to visit with family and friends dining around us, when we were there last. We honestly could go there once a day just to eat the fresh hummus and pita bread. Tip: If you’re too stuffed to order dessert, ask for their homemade baklava to-go and enjoy later at home.
SHOP
Gleena Ceramics – Stop into Gleena Ceramics to fall in love with the works of local artist, Asya Palatova. Her handmade collection consists of tableware, trinket dishes, vases, planters, and more. They’re all made in her studio, just behind the front shop space. If you’re lucky, you get to see her at work when you first walk in! The shop also sells cards, plants, and other cute items that would make perfect gifts.
The Cleveland Candle Company – “I don’t need another candle,” said no one ever. With fall just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to go stock up on seasonal scents for cozy nights at home (they have a scent named “Jumping into Leaves” – can’t get more fall than that!). The shop is located on Coventry Road, so plan to spend some time walking around the area into other nearby shops.
DorNee – We love the sense of community among Cleveland business owners, and that is exactly how we discovered DorNee, a local soap and skincare shop on Taylor Road. When speaking with the nearby owner of Gleena Ceramics, she told us you MUST stop by DorNee’s down the road (#womenwhosupportwomen). When you step inside you’ll immediately be hit with all the wonderful scents from her homemade products. In fact, DorNee owner Torrian Denise was in the back mixing up a fresh batch of soap while we shopped around. Her products are all natural and contain no harmful ingredients. You can even find them in Whole Foods stores across Northeast Ohio – a testament to the quality and healing ingredients she uses. We have our eyes on a scent called “Autumnberry” and will be back to pick it up soon!
DO
Quintana’s Salon & Day Spa – Shhh… this place is still a secret to many, but we’re going to fill you in on this East Side gem. Quintana’s is known for being one of the best barbershops in Cleveland, but it’s new claim to fame is the secret speakeasy the owners added just a few years ago. Located inside a 1920s colonial house, the first floor is a traditional barbershop where you’ll see customers in vintage barber chairs getting a shave, but then if you walk upstairs you’ll discover a secret bookcase passage (yes, just like the movies!) that will lead you to a hidden bar and lounge. Go for a spa treatment or haircut, then head to the speakeasy for artisanal cocktails, live music, and an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in Cleveland.
A newer addition to the Cleveland Heights area is Studio How-To, a space for people to come together and create. Studio How-To focuses on handcrafts, from embroidery and sewing to calligraphy and block printing. We love that you don’t have to be super creative or skilled to attend a workshop – they encourage people of all skill levels to relax and enjoy the experience of making something! They also offer private workshops. How fun would it be to get a group of people together for a special occasion or even just to try something new? You can view the calendar of upcoming workshops here.
Cedar Lee Theatre – Christmas Day 1925 is when the Cedar Lee Theatre first opened its doors – then a 1,100-seat, single-screen theatre (can you imagine!?). You may no longer be able to watch a movie in that massive space, as it was renovated to fit multiple rooms like most movie theatres today, but you can still take in a piece of history by heading to the theatre to watch a movie. Catch some of the best indie and foreign films, then snap a photo in front of the popular “Cedar Lee” marquee.
*This article was written by Megan Breehl of @secondcityguides – if you aren’t already following along, I encourage you to check our her Instagram right away. She takes gorgeous photos highlighting the beautiful + magical spots in Cleveland, as well as other underrated cities.
We get a few DM’s a week asking for recommendations on what to do while in town. One of our FAVORITE things to do is to play tour guide when friends are in town – it is SO fun to surprise them with a side of the city they may not have been expecting. We’ve been exploring Cleveland for a few years so I can only tell you about the places we’ve experienced firsthand, but it’ll at least get you headed in the right direction. That being said, here is our Unofficial Guide to a Fun Weekend in The Land. I obviously don’t expect you to make it to every place on the list, I only expect you to try 😉
Guys, I’m coming down with a fever. DISCO FEVER, that is. We couldn’t be more excited to get our boogie on this April 6th for the 3rd annual Downtown Disco Cleveland event held at Grays Armory. Haven’t heard of this party? It’s it’s one of Cleveland’s best kept secrets! Once a year, people of all ages come together for a magical night of costumes, dancing, and an open bar – all while benefiting Connecting For Kids, a local charity that provides support to families of children with special needs.
I had the chance to sit down and chat with Chuck Mulé and Michael Hurley, the two guys who brought this party to the life for the first time. It all started in 2016 after winning an entrepreneurship competition at John Carroll University. One of the judges, Dick Anter, became a mentor to Mulé and Hurley by encouraging them to make the party a reality and giving them priceless guidance that resulted in their very first event selling over 450 tickets. Since then, word spread like wildfire and last year resulted in 600+ tickets being sold- bringing in people from all over the country to experience the funk.
Hurley’s eyes lit up as he spoke about his favorite moment of the night – when “Dancing Queen” by Abba comes on and the dance floor floods with folks of all ages – from 21 to 65. “This party really breaks down barriers, bringing together people from all generations and ethnicities for one beautiful night a year.”
“My favorite moment,” says Chuck Mulé, “is watching someone who may have been hesitant to come initially, have the time of their lives.” and continued on telling me “I’ve heard so many people say they can’t wait to come again the next year.” I’ve personally spoken with attendees and have heard similar sentiments, phrases like “It’s the best night of the year” and “I went the first year and absolutely REFUSE to ever miss one – they are so much fun!”
Costumes are a big part of the fun of the evening, with everything from glitter to bell-bottoms to platform shoes. Chuck warned guests to try to stay away from large chain costume shops if you want a unique look, and instead head to thrift shops or local rental costume shop like Chelsea’s Vintage in Lakewood. Personally, I am a huge fan of costume parties and can’t wait to find some psychedelic threads.
Tickets are $59.99 and include four glorious hours of dancing and a fully-stocked open bar. Buy yours now because it’s guaranteed to sell out before the event and this is one far-out party you do NOT want to miss. I’ll see you on the dance floor!
To close out Mental Health Month, Cleveland Vibes has partnered with Rita Abdallah to bring you a list of mental health resources you can access here in Cleveland. We believe wholeheartedly that in order to thrive in Cleveland, we must prioritize our mental health and not be afraid to take action – reaching out for help when necessary. To those struggling: we support you and hope to help make Cleveland a place where you never have to be ashamed for the hidden weight you carry each day. We see you and we are with you.
Does hope reign supreme in Cleveland? Absolutely.
Cleveland has a great range of mental health resources to help you and your loved ones. Whether you’re experiencing mental health challenges, caring for someone with mental illness or want to stay mentally fit, here are 10 great resources to explore in our hope-forward city.
ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County. If you’re unsure about your mental health status, the ADAMHS Board can walk you through a brief online screening process that is anonymous and confidential. Aside from this handy tool, the ADAMHS Board’s website has a ton of resources on addiction, the Opioid Epidemic, gambling and the Cuyahoga County Prescription Drug Drop-off Program. By the way, here’s a link to find a drop-off site near you, www.rxdrugdropbox.org.
Center for Evidence-Based Treatment. A group of mental health professionals focused on research to create therapeutic successes. They specialize in treating stress management, body Image and self-esteem, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders and combination disorders.
Cornerstone of Hope. From preschool-aged children to adults, Cornerstone of Hope assists grieving families by guiding them through the bereavement process.
Courage to Caregivers. In its second year, Courage to Caregivers has made a big impact on the Cleveland community. Solely focused on mental health caregivers, this organization loves to empower people through One-to-One Support, Breathing and Meditation classes and Support Groups co-facilitated by both a counselor or social worker as well as a trained peer specialists.
FrontLine Service. No one wants to find themselves in the middle of a mental health crisis. When that unfortunate moment happens, turn to FrontLine Service for help. Their 24/7 Crisis Hotline 216.623.6888 and live chat with emotional support for anyone who is depressed, despairing, thinking about suicide or in need of shelter.
LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland. A safe and caring place for LGBT, this organization has specific health and wellness programs for youth, adults, seniors and veterans.
NAMI Greater Cleveland. NAMI stands for National Alliance on Mental Illness. They offer a variety of resources like support groups, wellness courses and multicultural outreach program for individuals with mental illness and their families members.
Neighborhood Family Practice. For existing patients, NFP’s behavioral health team offers talk therapy services for existing pediatric, adolescent and adult patients. Psychiatry services (which use medication to help treat people) are available as well. NFP provides discounts to eligible patients.
The Gathering Place. Managing a chronic illness like cancer can take a big emotional toll. The Gathering Place, a Cleveland landmark for over 20 years, has been great resource that addresses the emotional, physical and spiritual needs of individuals and families currently coping with the impact of cancer in their lives.
The Nord Center. For Lorain County residents, Nord provides much needed mental health and behavioral services including outpatient counseling; sexual assault / rape crisis services; drug and alcohol addiction; dual diagnosis (substance abuse and mental illness); psychiatry and medication management; employment and vocational services; supportive housing as well as homelessness prevention. They also offer culturally-specific services to bilingual and African-American consumers.
Okay, so these next two resources are not Cleveland-specific… they are useful if you want to find a professional for private appointments and/or learn more about mental health:
Psychology Today. This website contains a wealth of information on mental health including a really sophisticated search engine to find a therapist based on your preferences. You can scroll through profiles of professionals to see if they accept your insurance type. It’s important you find someone who is the right fit for you. Don’t hesitate to ask a potential therapist for a free consult before scheduling an appointment.
TedTalks. For those of you getting started on your mental wellness journey or want to learn more on how to help someone challenged by mental issues, there is a series of TEDTalks (or educational videos) devoted to these topics.
Are you a mental health professional?
Are you a NEO Social Worker or Counselor? Join my private Facebook page where nearly 350 licensed therapists members exchange resources, make referrals and post professional opportunities such as workshops and job openings.
Rita Abdallah, LISW-S, LCSW-C, ACSW is a national speaker, intuitive, blogger, and award-winning wellness coach. She is an authority on the topics of happiness, cancer survivorship, work-life balance, self-care, and conquering stress. Say hello to Rita on Instagram or visit her website www.ritaabdallah.com.
Summer is the season to live outdoors, especially for local Clevelanders who need quality vitamin D time to recover from long, brutal winters. But even in the summer rainy days happen and we don’t think you should let a little rain drain the fun out of summer! We’re sharing 15 indoor places in and around Cleveland to explore when you need to escape the weather.
We know there’s plenty more too, so after you’ve read through, leave a comment with your favorite indoor activity or place to help our readers get even more ideas!
It’s important to understand the history of your city, so why not start with a trip to the Cleveland History Center? It covers everything from WWI and women in politics, to the automotive industry and the city’s historic mansions, to the Euclid Beach Park Grand Carousel, which may look familiar as you can see it from the sidewalk outside (And yes, you can ride it!).
The Grog Shop has a show lined up 365 days of the year, so whether you’re looking to enjoy music with friends on the weekend, or you’re in need of an impromptu date night to liven up a mundane Monday, be sure to check out the Grog Shop’s calendar. We love the variety of entertainment they offer – from comedy acts and hip-hop artists, to ‘80s dance nights.
Get your hands dirty during an art class at BRICK Ceramic + Design Studio in the Waterloo Arts District. The studio, tucked behind Six Shooter Coffee, offers two-hour wheel classes for $60. You’ll get to learn how to make a cup, bowl, and plate. The price includes not only the experience, but you’ll also get to take home the pieces you make, so you can feel proud as you sip your morning coffee from your handmade mug. Click here to see the studio’s upcoming class dates.
#Selfcare is not a trend; it’s a lifestyle. Why not turn a rainy day in CLE into an opportunity to zen-out at the beautiful Sacred Hour Spa, located in nearby Lakewood. The Korean Scrub sounds like pure bliss, or you could go for the glow with a facial treatment. See all the spa services here.
If you haven’t been yet to MoCA in Uptown Cleveland, now is the time to go, as it’s celebrated its 50th anniversary with FREE admission. What we love about MoCA: it’s a smaller museum so you can get your art fix even if you only have a half hour or so to spare. Also, the MoCA gift shop is a hidden gem of unique gifts and treasures you’ll want to snag for yourself and others.
You didn’t think we’d recommend MoCA and not mention the Cleveland Museum of Art, did you? Cleveland is lucky to have accessible art at our fingertips, and the Cleveland Museum of Art — which is also free — is at the epicenter of that community.
Remember the days when nothing could be more fun than going to your friend-with-the-trampoline’s house? (If you were that house, we’re jealous.) Skyzone is the ultimate playground for adults — kids welcome too — where you can jump around a giant building filled with trampolines, foam pits, and…need we say more? We know you were sold at “trampoline.” Learn more here.
Tabletop Cafe, Cleveland’s first and largest board game cafe, has over 1,000 games to choose from. WHAT?! Grab a friend and go play a game that will bring on major childhood nostalgia. They have a yummy menu of sandwiches, flatbreads, and other snack foods to keep you fueled to win, as well as a brunch menu for a Sunday Funday tradition waiting to happen.
We don’t mean to be predictable, but there’s a reason Playhouse Square is on every Cleveland to-do list. We’re fortunate to have such a strong performing arts hub (second largest in the country to NYC, guys!) with a stacked calendar of shows and events nearly every day of the week.
While new to town, the Van Aken District is quickly becoming the East Side’s coolest gathering spot. The new food + shopping hub offers a small street with trendy boutiques, but we recommend heading to the food hall on the days you’re looking to hide from the weather. From On The Rise pastries, to the best veggie sandwich and bowls in town at Brassica, your taste buds will forever thank you.
Sometimes we just need to be around nature, and rain or shine, there are two great indoor gardens to explore in the city of Cleveland. The impressive Cleveland Botanical Garden in University Circle is set up on one side as a Costa Rican rainforest and on the other as the desert of Madagascar. If you’re on a budget, head to the Rockefeller Park Greenhouse in the Cultural Gardens, which offers free admission, but is just as beautiful and calming to stroll through.
Having one of those weekends where you need to get some work done? Mix it up and get a day pass to one of Cleveland’s co-working spaces. Limelight offers a $20 day pass to its vibrant space, which includes access to computers, printers, scanners, coffee and tea, and meeting rooms.
The West Side Market is a point of pride for the city of Cleveland. The rich history of the building and the community of vendors and shoppers that have come through its doors since 1912 is remarkable and a city tradition we hope lives on forever. Support the great businesses that make up the market by grabbing a bite to eat and fresh ingredients for your next authentic Cleveland home-cooked meal. PS: The market is now open on Sundays, too!
Cleveland’s first cat café opened earlier this year, and we are here for it. Not just because it’s a place to go to snuggle the little furballs when you need a mood lift, but because it houses adoptable cats and creates a safe space for them to interact with people and other cats. The café is in a separate area than the cat lounge, so if you immediately thought, “Ew, cat hair and food,” don’t worry; you can have your cake — and cats too.
Hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a change of scenery. This is a great option for parents who want to get the kids out of the house, but also don’t have the energy to chase them around. The train goes through the CVNP and has a few different boarding stations. Learn more here.
Getting dressed for a football game is hard, especially when you’re a Browns fan (who decided on brown and orange?) That’s why we’ve partnered with some of Cleveland’s most stylish bloggers + influencers to provide you with some outfit inspiration for your Sunday’s Best.
Erika from the duo of @basicbrokeandchic wears an Emily Roggenburk Cleveland pullover. Use code CLEVIBES to get 20% off all ER apparel. www.liketoknow.it/basicbrokeandchicPersonal stylist and thrift queen Nicole from @elanstylingcle mixes it up with some fun thrifted pieces and her @fount Finley Clutch www.instagram.com/elanstylingcleLifestyle blogger @anastasiasouris keeps it cool + casual with a YSL t-shirt and some classic high-waisted Levis. www.savojune.comLocal tee goddess @emilyroggenburk wears her UNITED STATES OF CLEVELAND t-shirt. Use code: CLEVIBES for 20% off www.emilyroggenburk.comLocal boss lady @fountjackie is 50 shades of brown with the Coventry Bucket Bag from her American-made leather goods company @fount www.fount.comBlogger @samantha_show_ layers a camo jacket over her Browns t-shirt and finishes off the look with a fringe bag. www.thesamanthashow.comRachael of @shoresociety dons a Dawgs Pullover by @homage , a belt bag, and white platform sneakers. www.shoresociety.com@melissamandula wears another sweet Emily Roggenburk t-shirt with a cardigan by Fetch + Co and a pair of classic vans. Use code CLEVIBES to get 20% off your Emily Roggenburk purchase. www.melissamandula.comBlogger @jordanashleighmartin wears a University Tees Sunday in Cleveland t-shirt with leopard printed sneakers and a @colortribe bag www.liketoknow.it/jordanashleighmartinPersonal stylist and fashion blogger Hallie of @thewardrobeconsultant wears her colors on her super dope bag from Two French Blue, www.thewardrobeconsultant.com/shopBlogger Shibani of @bombaytaxiboutique wears an orange trench over her Cleveland is my Paris t-shirt by Oceanne. www.bombaytaxiboutique.com/blog
Just a heads up: only see through bags allowed in stadium! Have fun and GO BROWNS!!
Bringing all the communal spirit and designed living
I don’t know about you, but social distancing has given us a whole new perspective on the places we call home, and the importance of having a space that fits the lifestyles we desire. That’s why we are so excited to share Church + State with you. Cleveland’s newest and most luxurious mixed-use development, partnered with a vibrant intentionally communal lifestyle that comes with the lease. Without further adieu, here are the top 10 reasons.
Let’s just get this out of the way because it is insanely dope. The Lantern Room is “your rooftop indoor/outdoor chill space, with spectacular views to Lake Erie, downtown Cleveland, and the Ohio City neighborhood. The main space has huge floor-to-ceiling windows, wood herringbone flooring, stylish and comfortable seating, huge flatscreen TV, and elegant prep space for events. The outdoor wraparound deck includes a large three-season soaking pool for cooling off in the summer and warming up in cooler months. It will also feature a Corten steel fire pit and bistro lighting. This space will also be used as an event space, which residents will be able to reserve as well.” Heck to the yeah.
The Neighborhood
Hingetown is located in Ohio City and is the home of so many of our all-time Cleveland favorite spots like Rising Star Coffee, Larder Delicatessen and Bakery, Cleveland Tea Revival, Avalon Exchange (all-time favorite second-hand shop in the Land!!,) Beauty Shoppe Coworking, Beat Jar, JukeBox, Harness Cycle, and MORE. If you haven’t experienced Hingetown you are sleeping on one of the most happening corners of this city. It’s filled with some of the most vivacious + welcoming folks around.
THE APARTMENTS
These spaces are filled with high-end elements like stainless steel Samsung appliances, leathered granite countertops, chef-grade Moen faucets and hardware, kitchen islands with designer pendant lights, walk-in closets, in-unit washer-dryers, and oversized operable windows with balconies. All units have brass bathroom hardware from West Elm, but first-time residents (perhaps you?) get to choose from a selection of designer kitchen cabinet handles — a modern matte black or timeless brushed gold. There’s room for a dining table for your next dinner party, and double vanities in the master bathrooms so you can spread out while getting ready for your guests to arrive. The apartments are bright and airy, with plenty of natural light and some come with private balconies. The apartment building is made from heavy-duty materials so you won’t be hearing your neighbors and they won’t be hearing from you.
Space to PLAY
Enjoy a backyard equipped with seasonal splash pad (adults encouraged) and a light-up seesaw on-site, intended for your general merriment. If a 17 Foot Slide wasn’t on your list of house MUSTS as a kid, honestly I’m not sure we would have been friends. The folks at Church + State want to keep the kid alive in all of us, so they built a slide that you can take a ride down from the top of the parking garage. I think if I lived at Church + State I would sit at the bottom of that slide every day and watch grown-ass people giggle their way down a swirly slide and it would make me SO HAPPY. If that doesn’t get you moving, they also have a Fitness center with high-tech equipment and peloton bikes. Last but not least, there is a Six Story Climbing Wall on the exterior of the church building in case you still felt like this place might not be rad enough for someone like you.
Communal Lifestyle
This whole social distancing season of life has made me more aware than ever of the value of human connection and the folks at Church + State just get it. They encourage a life lived with the spirit of community by giving you areas to work remotely on campus, reach your fitness goals with your neighbors at the gym, or gather around the warm glow of the lobby fireplace with friends. Other spots to convene are the seating steps, the lantern room (of course), and climbing wall. If you’re lonely here it’s on you and that’s all I got to say. Upbeat atmosphere, social events, and tasting nights // mixers — you name it. They even have a rainy day room for kids if you happen to have some kids who need a little more space to burn energy or want to play with friends. But not everything is public, the heavy-duty materials that were used create privacy and autonomy in every apartment.
Convenience
Apart from all the nearby niceties that’ll make your life easier. Church + State offers tons of convenient features — not limited to indoor parking and a ground floor bike garage because no one wants to lug their bike up to their apartment. Other amenities include keyless entry, in-unit laundry, communal dog wash station, blackout blinds provided in units. They are the first Cleveland complex with modern convenience via Mobile Concierge Service, Livly, that allows you to pay rent, hire a cleaning service or dog walker, or even ask your neighbors to borrow a cup of sugar through the app. And GET THIS, the outdoor grounds between the Church + State building are equipped with a liquor license so you are free to enjoy the patio atmosphere of a bar from your own backyard. There is nothing more convenient than that!
Ground Floor Retail
While they are still waiting for final contracts to be signed, rest assured that the everyday needs of tenants will be met with the shops and studios that will fill the ground floor retail spaces. We got to hear some of the businesses that are looking to move in and we are EXCITED, to say the least.
A Classy Touch
Church + State is keeping it boujee with details like the Fount designed elevators equipped with ornate mirrors and leather. The most luxurious feature may be thr rooftop wading pool which will be custom set to warmer temperatures in the cooler months and cooler temperatures in the warmer months – feel free enjoy a drink here and watch the sun set over the city. Enjoy chic interior design elements like Morracan rugs and a massive communal table by Clevelander Hans Noble, for a local-global artisan fusion. If you enjoy art, you’ll love the 20 story mural by Dinara Mirtalipova, that will wrap around the State building. The lobbies will be decked out with a selection of beautifully curated pieces that will leave you feeling like you’re living in a museum.
Relative Location
The Church + State location is a primo location giving you access to some of the best Cleveland has to offer. To get to Uptown, Cleveland Clinic Main Campus, or University Circle it’s a 15-minute drive. To Lakewood, a 10-15 minute drive. You could walk to the West Side Market for fresh groceries in less than 10 minutes and Edgewater beach is a leisurely 15-minute bike ride away. And a pathway straight to wendy park with beachfront access.
Unmatched Hospitality
Within minutes of entering Church + State, you will be able to feel the good vibes. Drinks offered upon tour from local brewers and Graham + Fisk’s Wine-in-a-Can. Upon signing a lease you will receive a goodie bag filled with treasures like Turkish towels for the Japanese inspired wading pool, custom Church + State gear, smores kits for rooftop firepit, incense, and local coupon booklet. We have no doubt that upon moving in, you will experience the same level of intentionality and love from the staff.
Honestly, I tried to create a list of ten reasons why you should live here so that you would read this post, but in reality, I just crammed 100 reasons into this list of 10. I’m sorry that I tricked you, but now you know what’s at stake. And when you move in, you better freaking invite me over.
Click this link to take a tour today or take a virtual tour here ☺
Bringing all the communal spirit and designed living
I don’t know about you, but social distancing has given us a whole new perspective on the places we call home, and the importance of having a space that fits the lifestyles we desire. That’s why we are so excited to share Church + State with you. Cleveland’s newest and most luxurious mixed-use development, partnered with a vibrant intentionally communal lifestyle that comes with the lease. Without further adieu, here are the top 10 reasons.
Let’s just get this out of the way because it is insanely dope. The Lantern Room is “your rooftop indoor/outdoor chill space, with spectacular views to Lake Erie, downtown Cleveland, and the Ohio City neighborhood. The main space has huge floor-to-ceiling windows, wood herringbone flooring, stylish and comfortable seating, huge flatscreen TV, and elegant prep space for events. The outdoor wraparound deck includes a large three-season soaking pool for cooling off in the summer and warming up in cooler months. It will also feature a Corten steel fire pit and bistro lighting. This space will also be used as an event space, which residents will be able to reserve as well.” Heck to the yeah.
The Neighborhood
Hingetown is located in Ohio City and is the home of so many of our all-time Cleveland favorite spots like Rising Star Coffee, Larder Delicatessen and Bakery, Cleveland Tea Revival, Avalon Exchange (all-time favorite second-hand shop in the Land!!,) Beauty Shoppe Coworking, Beat Jar, JukeBox, Harness Cycle, and MORE. If you haven’t experienced Hingetown you are sleeping on one of the most happening corners of this city. It’s filled with some of the most vivacious + welcoming folks around.
THE APARTMENTS
These spaces are filled with high-end elements like stainless steel Samsung appliances, leathered granite countertops, chef-grade Moen faucets and hardware, kitchen islands with designer pendant lights, walk-in closets, in-unit washer-dryers, and oversized operable windows with balconies. All units have brass bathroom hardware from West Elm, but first-time residents (perhaps you?) get to choose from a selection of designer kitchen cabinet handles — a modern matte black or timeless brushed gold. There’s room for a dining table for your next dinner party, and double vanities in the master bathrooms so you can spread out while getting ready for your guests to arrive. The apartments are bright and airy, with plenty of natural light and some come with private balconies. The apartment building is made from heavy-duty materials so you won’t be hearing your neighbors and they won’t be hearing from you.
Space to PLAY
Enjoy a backyard equipped with seasonal splash pad (adults encouraged) and a light-up seesaw on-site, intended for your general merriment. If a 17 Foot Slide wasn’t on your list of house MUSTS as a kid, honestly I’m not sure we would have been friends. The folks at Church + State want to keep the kid alive in all of us, so they built a slide that you can take a ride down from the top of the parking garage. I think if I lived at Church + State I would sit at the bottom of that slide every day and watch grown-ass people giggle their way down a swirly slide and it would make me SO HAPPY. If that doesn’t get you moving, they also have a Fitness center with high-tech equipment and peloton bikes. Last but not least, there is a Six Story Climbing Wall on the exterior of the church building in case you still felt like this place might not be rad enough for someone like you.
Communal Lifestyle
This whole social distancing season of life has made me more aware than ever of the value of human connection and the folks at Church + State just get it. They encourage a life lived with the spirit of community by giving you areas to work remotely on campus, reach your fitness goals with your neighbors at the gym, or gather around the warm glow of the lobby fireplace with friends. Other spots to convene are the seating steps, the lantern room (of course), and climbing wall. If you’re lonely here it’s on you and that’s all I got to say. Upbeat atmosphere, social events, and tasting nights // mixers — you name it. They even have a rainy day room for kids if you happen to have some kids who need a little more space to burn energy or want to play with friends. But not everything is public, the heavy-duty materials that were used create privacy and autonomy in every apartment.
Convenience
Apart from all the nearby niceties that’ll make your life easier. Church + State offers tons of convenient features — not limited to indoor parking and a ground floor bike garage because no one wants to lug their bike up to their apartment. Other amenities include keyless entry, in-unit laundry, communal dog wash station, blackout blinds provided in units. They are the first Cleveland complex with modern convenience via Mobile Concierge Service, Livly, that allows you to pay rent, hire a cleaning service or dog walker, or even ask your neighbors to borrow a cup of sugar through the app. And GET THIS, the outdoor grounds between the Church + State building are equipped with a liquor license so you are free to enjoy the patio atmosphere of a bar from your own backyard. There is nothing more convenient than that!
Ground Floor Retail
While they are still waiting for final contracts to be signed, rest assured that the everyday needs of tenants will be met with the shops and studios that will fill the ground floor retail spaces. We got to hear some of the businesses that are looking to move in and we are EXCITED, to say the least.
A Classy Touch
Church + State is keeping it boujee with details like the Fount designed elevators equipped with ornate mirrors and leather. The most luxurious feature may be thr rooftop wading pool which will be custom set to warmer temperatures in the cooler months and cooler temperatures in the warmer months – feel free enjoy a drink here and watch the sun set over the city. Enjoy chic interior design elements like Morracan rugs and a massive communal table by Clevelander Hans Noble, for a local-global artisan fusion. If you enjoy art, you’ll love the 20 story mural by Dinara Mirtalipova, that will wrap around the State building. The lobbies will be decked out with a selection of beautifully curated pieces that will leave you feeling like you’re living in a museum.
Relative Location
The Church + State location is a primo location giving you access to some of the best Cleveland has to offer. To get to Uptown, Cleveland Clinic Main Campus, or University Circle it’s a 15-minute drive. To Lakewood, a 10-15 minute drive. You could walk to the West Side Market for fresh groceries in less than 10 minutes and Edgewater beach is a leisurely 15-minute bike ride away. And a pathway straight to wendy park with beachfront access.
Unmatched Hospitality
Within minutes of entering Church + State, you will be able to feel the good vibes. Drinks offered upon tour from local brewers and Graham + Fisk’s Wine-in-a-Can. Upon signing a lease you will receive a goodie bag filled with treasures like Turkish towels for the Japanese inspired wading pool, custom Church + State gear, smores kits for rooftop firepit, incense, and local coupon booklet. We have no doubt that upon moving in, you will experience the same level of intentionality and love from the staff.
Honestly, I tried to create a list of ten reasons why you should live here so that you would read this post, but in reality, I just crammed 100 reasons into this list of 10. I’m sorry that I tricked you, but now you know what’s at stake. And when you move in, you better freaking invite me over.
Click this link to take a tour today or take a virtual tour here ☺
Getting dressed for a football game is hard, especially when you’re a Browns fan (who decided on brown and orange?) That’s why we’ve partnered with some of Cleveland’s most stylish bloggers + influencers to provide you with some outfit inspiration for your Sunday’s Best.
Erika from the duo of @basicbrokeandchic wears an Emily Roggenburk Cleveland pullover. Use code CLEVIBES to get 20% off all ER apparel. www.liketoknow.it/basicbrokeandchicPersonal stylist and thrift queen Nicole from @elanstylingcle mixes it up with some fun thrifted pieces and her @fount Finley Clutch www.instagram.com/elanstylingcleLifestyle blogger @anastasiasouris keeps it cool + casual with a YSL t-shirt and some classic high-waisted Levis. www.savojune.comLocal tee goddess @emilyroggenburk wears her UNITED STATES OF CLEVELAND t-shirt. Use code: CLEVIBES for 20% off www.emilyroggenburk.comLocal boss lady @fountjackie is 50 shades of brown with the Coventry Bucket Bag from her American-made leather goods company @fount www.fount.comBlogger @samantha_show_ layers a camo jacket over her Browns t-shirt and finishes off the look with a fringe bag. www.thesamanthashow.comRachael of @shoresociety dons a Dawgs Pullover by @homage , a belt bag, and white platform sneakers. www.shoresociety.com@melissamandula wears another sweet Emily Roggenburk t-shirt with a cardigan by Fetch + Co and a pair of classic vans. Use code CLEVIBES to get 20% off your Emily Roggenburk purchase. www.melissamandula.comBlogger @jordanashleighmartin wears a University Tees Sunday in Cleveland t-shirt with leopard printed sneakers and a @colortribe bag www.liketoknow.it/jordanashleighmartinPersonal stylist and fashion blogger Hallie of @thewardrobeconsultant wears her colors on her super dope bag from Two French Blue, www.thewardrobeconsultant.com/shopBlogger Shibani of @bombaytaxiboutique wears an orange trench over her Cleveland is my Paris t-shirt by Oceanne. www.bombaytaxiboutique.com/blog
Just a heads up: only see through bags allowed in stadium! Have fun and GO BROWNS!!
Summer is the season to live outdoors, especially for local Clevelanders who need quality vitamin D time to recover from long, brutal winters. But even in the summer rainy days happen and we don’t think you should let a little rain drain the fun out of summer! We’re sharing 15 indoor places in and around Cleveland to explore when you need to escape the weather.
We know there’s plenty more too, so after you’ve read through, leave a comment with your favorite indoor activity or place to help our readers get even more ideas!
It’s important to understand the history of your city, so why not start with a trip to the Cleveland History Center? It covers everything from WWI and women in politics, to the automotive industry and the city’s historic mansions, to the Euclid Beach Park Grand Carousel, which may look familiar as you can see it from the sidewalk outside (And yes, you can ride it!).
The Grog Shop has a show lined up 365 days of the year, so whether you’re looking to enjoy music with friends on the weekend, or you’re in need of an impromptu date night to liven up a mundane Monday, be sure to check out the Grog Shop’s calendar. We love the variety of entertainment they offer – from comedy acts and hip-hop artists, to ‘80s dance nights.
Get your hands dirty during an art class at BRICK Ceramic + Design Studio in the Waterloo Arts District. The studio, tucked behind Six Shooter Coffee, offers two-hour wheel classes for $60. You’ll get to learn how to make a cup, bowl, and plate. The price includes not only the experience, but you’ll also get to take home the pieces you make, so you can feel proud as you sip your morning coffee from your handmade mug. Click here to see the studio’s upcoming class dates.
#Selfcare is not a trend; it’s a lifestyle. Why not turn a rainy day in CLE into an opportunity to zen-out at the beautiful Sacred Hour Spa, located in nearby Lakewood. The Korean Scrub sounds like pure bliss, or you could go for the glow with a facial treatment. See all the spa services here.
If you haven’t been yet to MoCA in Uptown Cleveland, now is the time to go, as it’s celebrated its 50th anniversary with FREE admission. What we love about MoCA: it’s a smaller museum so you can get your art fix even if you only have a half hour or so to spare. Also, the MoCA gift shop is a hidden gem of unique gifts and treasures you’ll want to snag for yourself and others.
You didn’t think we’d recommend MoCA and not mention the Cleveland Museum of Art, did you? Cleveland is lucky to have accessible art at our fingertips, and the Cleveland Museum of Art — which is also free — is at the epicenter of that community.
Remember the days when nothing could be more fun than going to your friend-with-the-trampoline’s house? (If you were that house, we’re jealous.) Skyzone is the ultimate playground for adults — kids welcome too — where you can jump around a giant building filled with trampolines, foam pits, and…need we say more? We know you were sold at “trampoline.” Learn more here.
Tabletop Cafe, Cleveland’s first and largest board game cafe, has over 1,000 games to choose from. WHAT?! Grab a friend and go play a game that will bring on major childhood nostalgia. They have a yummy menu of sandwiches, flatbreads, and other snack foods to keep you fueled to win, as well as a brunch menu for a Sunday Funday tradition waiting to happen.
We don’t mean to be predictable, but there’s a reason Playhouse Square is on every Cleveland to-do list. We’re fortunate to have such a strong performing arts hub (second largest in the country to NYC, guys!) with a stacked calendar of shows and events nearly every day of the week.
While new to town, the Van Aken District is quickly becoming the East Side’s coolest gathering spot. The new food + shopping hub offers a small street with trendy boutiques, but we recommend heading to the food hall on the days you’re looking to hide from the weather. From On The Rise pastries, to the best veggie sandwich and bowls in town at Brassica, your taste buds will forever thank you.
Sometimes we just need to be around nature, and rain or shine, there are two great indoor gardens to explore in the city of Cleveland. The impressive Cleveland Botanical Garden in University Circle is set up on one side as a Costa Rican rainforest and on the other as the desert of Madagascar. If you’re on a budget, head to the Rockefeller Park Greenhouse in the Cultural Gardens, which offers free admission, but is just as beautiful and calming to stroll through.
Having one of those weekends where you need to get some work done? Mix it up and get a day pass to one of Cleveland’s co-working spaces. Limelight offers a $20 day pass to its vibrant space, which includes access to computers, printers, scanners, coffee and tea, and meeting rooms.
The West Side Market is a point of pride for the city of Cleveland. The rich history of the building and the community of vendors and shoppers that have come through its doors since 1912 is remarkable and a city tradition we hope lives on forever. Support the great businesses that make up the market by grabbing a bite to eat and fresh ingredients for your next authentic Cleveland home-cooked meal. PS: The market is now open on Sundays, too!
Cleveland’s first cat café opened earlier this year, and we are here for it. Not just because it’s a place to go to snuggle the little furballs when you need a mood lift, but because it houses adoptable cats and creates a safe space for them to interact with people and other cats. The café is in a separate area than the cat lounge, so if you immediately thought, “Ew, cat hair and food,” don’t worry; you can have your cake — and cats too.
Hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a change of scenery. This is a great option for parents who want to get the kids out of the house, but also don’t have the energy to chase them around. The train goes through the CVNP and has a few different boarding stations. Learn more here.
To close out Mental Health Month, Cleveland Vibes has partnered with Rita Abdallah to bring you a list of mental health resources you can access here in Cleveland. We believe wholeheartedly that in order to thrive in Cleveland, we must prioritize our mental health and not be afraid to take action – reaching out for help when necessary. To those struggling: we support you and hope to help make Cleveland a place where you never have to be ashamed for the hidden weight you carry each day. We see you and we are with you.
Does hope reign supreme in Cleveland? Absolutely.
Cleveland has a great range of mental health resources to help you and your loved ones. Whether you’re experiencing mental health challenges, caring for someone with mental illness or want to stay mentally fit, here are 10 great resources to explore in our hope-forward city.
ADAMHS Board of Cuyahoga County. If you’re unsure about your mental health status, the ADAMHS Board can walk you through a brief online screening process that is anonymous and confidential. Aside from this handy tool, the ADAMHS Board’s website has a ton of resources on addiction, the Opioid Epidemic, gambling and the Cuyahoga County Prescription Drug Drop-off Program. By the way, here’s a link to find a drop-off site near you, www.rxdrugdropbox.org.
Center for Evidence-Based Treatment. A group of mental health professionals focused on research to create therapeutic successes. They specialize in treating stress management, body Image and self-esteem, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders and combination disorders.
Cornerstone of Hope. From preschool-aged children to adults, Cornerstone of Hope assists grieving families by guiding them through the bereavement process.
Courage to Caregivers. In its second year, Courage to Caregivers has made a big impact on the Cleveland community. Solely focused on mental health caregivers, this organization loves to empower people through One-to-One Support, Breathing and Meditation classes and Support Groups co-facilitated by both a counselor or social worker as well as a trained peer specialists.
FrontLine Service. No one wants to find themselves in the middle of a mental health crisis. When that unfortunate moment happens, turn to FrontLine Service for help. Their 24/7 Crisis Hotline 216.623.6888 and live chat with emotional support for anyone who is depressed, despairing, thinking about suicide or in need of shelter.
LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland. A safe and caring place for LGBT, this organization has specific health and wellness programs for youth, adults, seniors and veterans.
NAMI Greater Cleveland. NAMI stands for National Alliance on Mental Illness. They offer a variety of resources like support groups, wellness courses and multicultural outreach program for individuals with mental illness and their families members.
Neighborhood Family Practice. For existing patients, NFP’s behavioral health team offers talk therapy services for existing pediatric, adolescent and adult patients. Psychiatry services (which use medication to help treat people) are available as well. NFP provides discounts to eligible patients.
The Gathering Place. Managing a chronic illness like cancer can take a big emotional toll. The Gathering Place, a Cleveland landmark for over 20 years, has been great resource that addresses the emotional, physical and spiritual needs of individuals and families currently coping with the impact of cancer in their lives.
The Nord Center. For Lorain County residents, Nord provides much needed mental health and behavioral services including outpatient counseling; sexual assault / rape crisis services; drug and alcohol addiction; dual diagnosis (substance abuse and mental illness); psychiatry and medication management; employment and vocational services; supportive housing as well as homelessness prevention. They also offer culturally-specific services to bilingual and African-American consumers.
Okay, so these next two resources are not Cleveland-specific… they are useful if you want to find a professional for private appointments and/or learn more about mental health:
Psychology Today. This website contains a wealth of information on mental health including a really sophisticated search engine to find a therapist based on your preferences. You can scroll through profiles of professionals to see if they accept your insurance type. It’s important you find someone who is the right fit for you. Don’t hesitate to ask a potential therapist for a free consult before scheduling an appointment.
TedTalks. For those of you getting started on your mental wellness journey or want to learn more on how to help someone challenged by mental issues, there is a series of TEDTalks (or educational videos) devoted to these topics.
Are you a mental health professional?
Are you a NEO Social Worker or Counselor? Join my private Facebook page where nearly 350 licensed therapists members exchange resources, make referrals and post professional opportunities such as workshops and job openings.
Rita Abdallah, LISW-S, LCSW-C, ACSW is a national speaker, intuitive, blogger, and award-winning wellness coach. She is an authority on the topics of happiness, cancer survivorship, work-life balance, self-care, and conquering stress. Say hello to Rita on Instagram or visit her website www.ritaabdallah.com.
Guys, I’m coming down with a fever. DISCO FEVER, that is. We couldn’t be more excited to get our boogie on this April 6th for the 3rd annual Downtown Disco Cleveland event held at Grays Armory. Haven’t heard of this party? It’s it’s one of Cleveland’s best kept secrets! Once a year, people of all ages come together for a magical night of costumes, dancing, and an open bar – all while benefiting Connecting For Kids, a local charity that provides support to families of children with special needs.
I had the chance to sit down and chat with Chuck Mulé and Michael Hurley, the two guys who brought this party to the life for the first time. It all started in 2016 after winning an entrepreneurship competition at John Carroll University. One of the judges, Dick Anter, became a mentor to Mulé and Hurley by encouraging them to make the party a reality and giving them priceless guidance that resulted in their very first event selling over 450 tickets. Since then, word spread like wildfire and last year resulted in 600+ tickets being sold- bringing in people from all over the country to experience the funk.
Hurley’s eyes lit up as he spoke about his favorite moment of the night – when “Dancing Queen” by Abba comes on and the dance floor floods with folks of all ages – from 21 to 65. “This party really breaks down barriers, bringing together people from all generations and ethnicities for one beautiful night a year.”
“My favorite moment,” says Chuck Mulé, “is watching someone who may have been hesitant to come initially, have the time of their lives.” and continued on telling me “I’ve heard so many people say they can’t wait to come again the next year.” I’ve personally spoken with attendees and have heard similar sentiments, phrases like “It’s the best night of the year” and “I went the first year and absolutely REFUSE to ever miss one – they are so much fun!”
Costumes are a big part of the fun of the evening, with everything from glitter to bell-bottoms to platform shoes. Chuck warned guests to try to stay away from large chain costume shops if you want a unique look, and instead head to thrift shops or local rental costume shop like Chelsea’s Vintage in Lakewood. Personally, I am a huge fan of costume parties and can’t wait to find some psychedelic threads.
Tickets are $59.99 and include four glorious hours of dancing and a fully-stocked open bar. Buy yours now because it’s guaranteed to sell out before the event and this is one far-out party you do NOT want to miss. I’ll see you on the dance floor!
We get a few DM’s a week asking for recommendations on what to do while in town. One of our FAVORITE things to do is to play tour guide when friends are in town – it is SO fun to surprise them with a side of the city they may not have been expecting. We’ve been exploring Cleveland for a few years so I can only tell you about the places we’ve experienced firsthand, but it’ll at least get you headed in the right direction. That being said, here is our Unofficial Guide to a Fun Weekend in The Land. I obviously don’t expect you to make it to every place on the list, I only expect you to try 😉
Fresh Fix – This small grab-and-go sandwich and smoothie shop took us by complete surprise. We went in expecting sugary fruit smoothies and basic sandwiches, only to discover they serve a large menu of healthy and tasty sandwiches. Plus, Fresh Fix boasts a stellar lineup of fruit and veggie smoothies named after our favorite ‘90s artists (try the Madonna Mango, Fresh Prince, and C-Low Green, for example). Fresh Fix has several vegan and vegetarian options, all reasonably priced, making it a stand-by for locals to enjoy regularly. Bonus: the shop is decorated with fun photos and art of ‘90s icons including TLC, Zack Morris, and Michael Jackson.
Boss Dog Brewing – Cleveland has such a fun brewery scene, but our favorite in Cleveland Heights is hands down Boss Dog Brewing. It’s only been open for less than a year, but it became a Lee Road staple this summer, partly due to their spacious outdoor patio. We recommend trying the red potato and cheddar pierogi, plus a few items off their bar snack menu.
Photo via Anatolia Café of Kazandibi, a Turkish dessert
Anatolia Café – A taste of Turkey in Cleveland! We love the atmosphere of this family-friendly Turkish & Mediterranean restaurant that has won over East Siders the past 10 years. The food is just as authentic as the staff, who would stop at tables to visit with family and friends dining around us, when we were there last. We honestly could go there once a day just to eat the fresh hummus and pita bread. Tip: If you’re too stuffed to order dessert, ask for their homemade baklava to-go and enjoy later at home.
SHOP
Gleena Ceramics – Stop into Gleena Ceramics to fall in love with the works of local artist, Asya Palatova. Her handmade collection consists of tableware, trinket dishes, vases, planters, and more. They’re all made in her studio, just behind the front shop space. If you’re lucky, you get to see her at work when you first walk in! The shop also sells cards, plants, and other cute items that would make perfect gifts.
The Cleveland Candle Company – “I don’t need another candle,” said no one ever. With fall just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to go stock up on seasonal scents for cozy nights at home (they have a scent named “Jumping into Leaves” – can’t get more fall than that!). The shop is located on Coventry Road, so plan to spend some time walking around the area into other nearby shops.
DorNee – We love the sense of community among Cleveland business owners, and that is exactly how we discovered DorNee, a local soap and skincare shop on Taylor Road. When speaking with the nearby owner of Gleena Ceramics, she told us you MUST stop by DorNee’s down the road (#womenwhosupportwomen). When you step inside you’ll immediately be hit with all the wonderful scents from her homemade products. In fact, DorNee owner Torrian Denise was in the back mixing up a fresh batch of soap while we shopped around. Her products are all natural and contain no harmful ingredients. You can even find them in Whole Foods stores across Northeast Ohio – a testament to the quality and healing ingredients she uses. We have our eyes on a scent called “Autumnberry” and will be back to pick it up soon!
DO
Quintana’s Salon & Day Spa – Shhh… this place is still a secret to many, but we’re going to fill you in on this East Side gem. Quintana’s is known for being one of the best barbershops in Cleveland, but it’s new claim to fame is the secret speakeasy the owners added just a few years ago. Located inside a 1920s colonial house, the first floor is a traditional barbershop where you’ll see customers in vintage barber chairs getting a shave, but then if you walk upstairs you’ll discover a secret bookcase passage (yes, just like the movies!) that will lead you to a hidden bar and lounge. Go for a spa treatment or haircut, then head to the speakeasy for artisanal cocktails, live music, and an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in Cleveland.
A newer addition to the Cleveland Heights area is Studio How-To, a space for people to come together and create. Studio How-To focuses on handcrafts, from embroidery and sewing to calligraphy and block printing. We love that you don’t have to be super creative or skilled to attend a workshop – they encourage people of all skill levels to relax and enjoy the experience of making something! They also offer private workshops. How fun would it be to get a group of people together for a special occasion or even just to try something new? You can view the calendar of upcoming workshops here.
Cedar Lee Theatre – Christmas Day 1925 is when the Cedar Lee Theatre first opened its doors – then a 1,100-seat, single-screen theatre (can you imagine!?). You may no longer be able to watch a movie in that massive space, as it was renovated to fit multiple rooms like most movie theatres today, but you can still take in a piece of history by heading to the theatre to watch a movie. Catch some of the best indie and foreign films, then snap a photo in front of the popular “Cedar Lee” marquee.
*This article was written by Megan Breehl of @secondcityguides – if you aren’t already following along, I encourage you to check our her Instagram right away. She takes gorgeous photos highlighting the beautiful + magical spots in Cleveland, as well as other underrated cities.
We recently had the pleasure of working with Clean Remedies to review their CBD oil tincture and roller ball to test its effects. In case you have been hiding under a rock, CBD is essentially a way of obtaining all the health benefits of marijuana without any of the psychoactive properties. Sound too good to be true? Well, don’t you worry – we tried it out and are here to tell you all about our experience.
I’m a pretty relaxed person, to be honest. I don’t get stressed out too easily. One of my many skills is that I can fall asleep on at the drop of a dime ANYWHERE. I am the queen of sleeping on airplanes. My husband Kyle, on the other hand will admit to stressing out over pretty inconsequential things… pretty much all the time. Sound like anyone you know? So when we started using CBD oil, honestly I didn’t feel the effects right away, but my husband displayed properties of “zen” almost immediately. I noticed it most in his lack of road rage, he notices it most in his ability to relax in situations where he’d normally feel anxiety.
Update: During my postpartum period I’ve experienced more anxiety than I’m used to, so I’ve tried Clean Remedies tincture again when it’s starting and found it to be very helpful in keeping me a bit more tranquil during this season of life.
Where I personally noticed the most significant difference while taking CBD oil tincture is the quality of my sleep. I fell slept heavier and woke up every morning feeling much more rested. Since I am SO good at sleeping, getting out of bed in the morning is a bit of a struggle but I generally feel more refreshed after an evening where I’ve used the tincture. I’ll be honest, I try to only use it when I’m feeling restless so that I don’t build a tolerance to it.
Kyle + I both took the oil by placing it under our tongues for 30 seconds – it’s practically tasteless but I still washed it down with a sip of water because….its oily. I’ve also heard of people adding into their smoothies!
CBD oil helps not only the anxious and sleep deprived but also helps with pain relief and inflammation and the Clean Remedies roller ball is incredible for this. You roll it onto anywhere you’re feeling achy and it immediately brings relief. It makes the area a little tingly, a bit like icy-hot which I absolutely love. If I could recommend trying one thing from the Clean Remedies line up, it would be this.
Clean Remedies’ mission is to enhance the quality of life through natural hemp products and promote more natural well-being. BEST OF ALL – it’s made right here in Cleveland. We love to support local + help make Cleveland even more chill. Check out their Instagram and get some CBD oil + be sure to comment slide into the @clevelandvibes DM’s to let us know what you think!
One of my favorite Cleveland foodies to follow along with is Claire from @cle_food – her colorful feed always leaves me feeling hungry. Anyone who has followed her on her foodie escapades knows that the girl loves her some ice cream! That’s why I’m so glad she has taken the time to share with us her favorite ice cream spots in The Land
Ice cream is a good idea year round, but now that it’s summer I think it’s time that you get the scoop (pun intended) on what some of the best ice cream shops in The Land are.
Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream: You know it’s good when there is a line out the door in the dead of Cleveland winter. Everyone in Cleveland knows and loves Mitchell’s Ice Cream. With their huge variety of flavors (including some dairy free and vegan friendly options), quality ingredients, and generous portions, what is there not to love? With over 30 flavors of ice cream, sorbet, and frozen yogurt, there is truly something for everybody at Mitchell’s. I honestly don’t know if I could say what my favorite flavor here is because every single one (and trust me, I’ve tried all of them) is incredible. Each batch of ice cream is hand crafted at their Ohio City kitchen, and you can go at any time to watch the process of how the ice cream is made. Another thing I love about Mitchell’s is that they support other local companies. A lot of the ingredients found in the ice cream at Mitchell’s Ice Cream are sourced from local farmers and friends such as their berries (Greenfield Farms), nuts (Hillson Nut Co.), milk and cream (Hartzler Family Dairy), and many more. So go to Mitchells and order a scoop (or two), a milkshake, or a sundae sundae, and trust me, you will leave a lot happier than when you walk in.
Mason’s Creamery: If you’re on Instagram, you’ve probably seen Mason’s Creamery. With aesthetic wall murals and cute lights, Mason’s is a very Insta-worthy ice cream shop. Although you might go for the gram, you’ll definitely want to keep coming back after for the unique and always changing flavors of ice cream. At Mason’s Creamery, they make small batches of handmade ice cream, so they are always testing out different flavors like taro, black sesame, French toast, and Dunkaroos just to name a few. I am constantly going back because if you go back on different weeks, you will have a completely new flavor selection to choose from! On weekends they also offer soft serve, which I am seriously obsessed with because it is the perfect creamy texture. If you’re not there on a weekend though, I recommend getting your scoops of ice cream on their egg waffle with a flavored whipped cream on top. I promise you won’t regret it.
Piccadilly Artisan Creamery: When you order ice cream at Piccadilly Artisan Creamery, you’ll see that they take liquid ice cream and mix it with liquid nitrogen. Although your order might take a little longer to put together because of this, it is so worth it. This freezing process doesn’t just look really cool; it also results in an extra creamy ice cream (I had no clue ice cream could be so creamy until I tried this place) because the extremely fast freezing process minimizes the size of ice crystals in the ice cream. Not only is the ice cream here super creamy, but also every one of their flavors is incredible. Piccadilly Creamery takes pride in only using fresh quality ingredients (there’s only about 6 or ingredients in each ice cream), and the quality of their ingredients is evident when you take your first bite. This is a great place to hang out with friends or go on a date to because the atmosphere is so cute, and they have board games available to play while you eat your ice cream.
Sweet Moses: Two things that have a special place in my heart are ice cream and nostalgia, so when I first discovered Sweet Moses, I was in love. Located in the heart of Cleveland’s Gordon Arts District, Sweet Moses will take you right back to the 1950’s. This old-timey soda fountain, ice cream, and candy shop has truly mastered the classics and is the place to go to if you are looking for simple, classic, really good ice cream. Let me be honest, ifyou are looking for a small scoop of light ice cream or sorbet, you might be better off going to one of the previous ice cream shops talked about in this article. Sweet Moses isthe place to go to if you want a scoop of ice cream that is more like 3 scoops that has somehow been formed into one ball (seriously, the portions are huge) or a sundae that is big enough to feed a family of four. This classic neighborhood is a must try if you want to “treat yo’ self”. If it weren’t for the sake of my health, you’d see me here every day.
Now get out there + eat some ice cream, it’s good for your soul and much cheaper than therapy.
If you follow along with Beth Opfer you know that she is a local MS, RDN, LDN, and a certified QT (get it?) But seriously, what I love most about Beth (apart from her sweet personality) is her laid-back philosophy that encourages everyone to find the balance between eating healthy and giving yourself the grace to indulge in the foods you love! Her goal is to inspire others to feel their best – not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well. You can find Beth on Instagram at @bethandfood or follow along with her blog, www.bethandfood.com! I hope you get as much value from this list of her favorite healthy eats in Cleveland as I did.
Salt : There’s a reason Chef Jill Vedaa was named a semi-finalist for the 2018 James Beard Foundation Best Chef: Great Lakes. The small plates. The crafted cocktails. The attention to detail and every flavor. It’s what sets this restaurant apart from others. I’d recommend ordering a few small plates and share with your loved ones. Their menu also changes seasonally to reflect the best local ingredients and flavor of foods. Order a cocktail you’ve never had and you’ll love it. You can’t go wrong here. And chances are, you’ll likely see Chef Jill socializing with her customers so be sure to say hi! My favorite dishes to date: White Bean Puree (Vegetables), Polenta Fries (Vegetables), Caramelized Baby Carrots (Vegetables), and Halibut (Fish).
Spice Kitchen & Bar: Truly a farm to fork eatery. So true that they even provide the map of their farm to show where their food is grown. I mean, how cool. Also meaning their menu changes seasonally to provide the most nutrient-dense, local ingredients full of flavor. Their patio is also a place to be in the summer. Not only is Spice a kitchen and bar in Cleveland, they also offer events at their farm in Brecksville. I had the opportunity to attend a Spice Acres event in 2017 where my husband and I toured the farm, walked over to the beautiful barn (definitely would have had my wedding here had I known about this place!) and enjoyed a multi-course meal of plant-based foods with wine pairings. My favorite dishes to date: Killbuck Valley Mushroom Flatbread (Shareables), Polenta Chickpea Fries (Shareables), Pan Roasted Atlantic Sea Scallops (Substantials), Local Greens Salad (Bar Menu) and Fried Lake Erie Creamery Cheese Curds (Bar Menu).
Toast: One of my favorite happy hour/bar spots in Cleveland. Toast has one of the best vibes, in my opinion. Very relaxing. Great service. In the Gordon Square Arts District, Toast is a great place to grab an always house-made bite to eat. My hands down favorite place to eat buffalo cauliflower bites! They also have a trio of toast daily (hence the name!) that is always a good choice. Always. The menu also changes seasonally so you can never get bored. In the summertime, grab a spot on the patio because it is definitely a crowd favorite. My favorite dishes here to date: Buffalo Cauliflower (Small Plates), Trio of Toast (Snacks), and Chef’s Whim Greens (Small Plates).
The Plum: This place is definitely bar and restaurant goals. The coolest ambiance. If there is one restaurant in Cleveland that I could dream of picking it up and making it fit into my house, it would be The Plum. The all-white backsplash bar and the exposed brick walls – so dreamy. The food and the service are even better. I love this place because you can tell that each dish is well thought out. It serves a purpose on their menu. They offer a variety of plates from small to large on all their menus, giving customers a chance to order a few dishes to share. The menu changes so it doesn’t stay stagnant. There is a reason The Plum was voted best new restaurant in 2017 by Cleveland Magazine. They offer a bar only menu with small bites, dinner menu with a variety of sized plates and brunch on Saturdays. Also, The Plum has one of my favorite patios with live music and conveniently located next to the Platform Brewery (my favorite brewery in Cleveland!). My favorite dishes here to date: Beet Taco (Small Plate, Dinner Menu), House Salad (Medium Plate, Dinner Menu), Brussels Sprouts (Medium Plate, Dinner Menu) and the Spicy Grain Bowl (Brunch Menu; with a mimosa of course!).
Le Petit Triangle Café: This place gives me all the Paris vibes and I love it! Le Petit is a Parisian café offering the best coffee and pastries, as well as midday and evening meals. But let’s talk about what they are really known for: brunch. Seriously, best.brunch.ever. Located in Ohio City, this restaurant’s goal for the past 10 years has been to make sure customers feel right at home with their friends and family, eating good food and drinking a beverage of choice, whether that be a coffee, cocktail, wine or beer (or all the above). They have it all. Expect a wait on a Saturday morning but believe me when I say it is worth the wait. My favorite dishes to date: French Toast (Brunch Menu; it’s a must try!), Ratatouille (Brunch; Savory Crepes), and their Pumpkin Latte.
Flying Fig: The Flying Fig is a small eatery and bar that is one of my favorite places to grab brunch or a small bite to eat. It is also one of my favorite places to grab a spot at the bar and enjoy happy hour. One of the many reasons I love this place so much is their effort to offer locally sourced foods with a true farm to fork environment. The Flying Fig prides itself on supporting local, small family farms. Karen Small, owner and head chef, is also a semi-finalist for the 2018 James Beard Foundation Best Chef: Great Lakes. Definitely well deserved. If you go when it isn’t too busy (which is rare) and the weather is nice, grab one of the few tables outside on their patio. My favorite dishes to date: Taleggio Polenta (Brunch Menu), Grilled Eggplant (Brunch Menu), Avocado Toast (Brunch Menu), Tofu Banh Mi Bowl (Lunch + Dinner Menu) and the Trio of Toast (Of the Day).
Townhall: I can’t name my favorite places to eat and not mention this place. Townhall is a non-GMO restaurant located in the heart of Ohio City on W. 25th Street. They offer a wide selection of healthy, feel-good meals, from sustainably sourced meats to high-quality vegan options. They understand that nutrition is not a ‘one size fits all’ approach so they go above and beyond to cater to all dietary preferences, from Paleo/Keto to Vegan options. To make it even better, their beverage choices are just like the food: top notch, offering zero-toxin, 100% organic coffee, organic cold-pressed juices and a great selection of beers showcasing local whenever possible. Definitely one of my favorites to go for a date night, vegan night, to watch a Cleveland sports game or for a holiday. They always do it right. My favorite dishes here to date: Acai+Grainless Granola Bowl (Brunch Menu), Caramelized Brussel Sprouts/Harissa Roasted Cauliflower (Organic Earth Bites), Townhall Veggie Burger (Pickups), Root Organic and Cold Pressed Juice and Pureed Acai (Smoothies).
The Grocery: Every time I walk into The Grocery, I smile. That’s how happy this place makes me. They probably know my name by now because I am a regular. No shame whatsoever. They also know Kip (my fur baby) because he comes along for the ride, and the peanut butter. The Grocery is a grab-and-go café from hot breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches and wraps, cold pressed juices, bowls and salads and smoothies. They also sell local edibles such as locally sourced produce, pasta and pasta sauces as well as dairy products. They proudly display the local farms where they are sourcing their ingredients from on the walls which is super cool. My favorite dishes to date: Vegan Fare wrap (all the local/seasonal vegetables with a house cashew dressing wrapped in a tortilla shell; sandwiches) and the PB&J smoothie (almond milk, peanut butter, banana, strawberry and I add hemp protein; smoothies). Not sure who loves this place more: me or Kip. Beet Jar: If I had to vote for a place that has hands down the coolest vibes, it would probably be Beet Jar. A small storefront with so much character. Beet Jar is a juice bar and grab-and-go vegan takeaway. Outstanding services and even better food. All their choices are made in-house, from their cold-pressed juices to the vegan sandwiches and chia pudding (so good!). My all-time favorite sandwich is from here: the Bravocado, which contains smoked coconut flakes, avocado, greens, red onion, house-made cashew mayo on whole grain bread (other options also available). Get it and thank me later. They definitely do it right here. I actually want to take one of their walls (yes an entire wall) and place it in my home. Some of my other favorites to date: Flavored Raw Cashew Mylk (Drinks in the Cooler), Strawberry Alarm Clock (Raw Smoothies), and Mr. Presley (Raw Smoothies).
There you have it! Nine amazing places to add to your list of places to try in Cleveland. Where do you go for a healthy bite?
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Neopolitan pizza at their two locations in Ohio City and Waterloo. In true Italian style, the crust is thin and soft but durable enough to support the weight of mozzarella cheese and heart toppings. Order your pizza (and perhaps a bottle of wine) at the counter, then relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and pop art selection.
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