Have you ever found yourself wanting to dive head-first into the Cleveland foodie scene? You’re not alone — we’ve come to boast one of the finest dining selections in the Midwest, and the heart of our restaurant scene is a collection of long-standing establishments. These eateries, among the oldest restaurants in Greater Cleveland, continue to be some of the yummiest. Check it out:
- Guarino’s
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Greg Mason/Google Images There’s nothing like old-school class and great Italian cuisine. If you’re looking for a combination of both, you’ll find it at Guarino’s Restaurant over in Little Italy. It was founded before Prohibition was in swing, and it served as a speakeasy for many years. Over the course of its history, it has attracted some famous guests… including, according to legend, Frank Sinatra himself.
- Close Quarters
Jeanette/Google Images
Jeanette/Google Images This quaint pub is so small you could almost overlook it. Almost… it’s a hidden gem, of course! Close Quarters began its life as a teeny tiny sandwich shop in 1930, and its 600 square feet have only grown more eclectic over the years. This is the place to be if you’re craving great conversation and some killer wings.
- Tommy’s
Jesse Brown/Google Images
Suzzy McLean/Google Images Tommy’s is a name locals know and love. In fact, it’s a name that was once widely known for having the very best milkshakes on this side of the Mississippi River. It opened its doors to hungry diners in 1972, originally operating as a small soda fountain. As its popularity persisted, it grew with time – now, it can seat 125 guests.
- Pier W
Zac Reichard/Google Images
Michael Russino/Google Images Pier W first opened its doors to diners in 1965, and it’s every bit as dazzling today as it was then. Perched on bluffs over our great lake, this seafood-friendly destination overlooks both Lake Erie and Cleveland. To this day, it remains one of the dreamiest restaurants for a date night in the area.
- Johnny’s Bar on Fulton
Johnny’s Bar on Fulton/Google Images
Johnny’s Bar on Fulton/Google Images For over eight long decades, Clevelanders have enjoyed indulging at Johnny’s Bar. Its neon sign and welcoming surrounds make visitors feel right at home, and its menu includes decadent pasta dishes and seafood, as well. Your taste buds will thank you time and time again following a visit to this yummy spot.
- Slyman’s Restaurant & Deli
Paul Dzurec/Google Images
Brian Reading/Google Images In 1964, Clevelanders were introduced to an indulgent, flavorful sandwich that has since become a local staple. To this day, Slyman’s has remained old-school in its approach to dining. Its retro deli still serves up massively delicious sandwiches, and it has since expanded to include a tavern.
- Mama Santa’s
Donald Pearce/Google Images
Amy/Google Images If you find yourself in Little Italy, you’ll want to take home some delicious and authentic pizza to enjoy later. Its founders moved from Sicily to the United States following World War II, and they eventually found that Little Italy shared their passion for great food. Mama Santa’s opened in 1961 and has remained a local favorite ever since.
- Gunselman’s Tavern
Gunselman’s Tavern/Google Images
Joshua Dunham/Google Images For over eight decades, diners have looked to Gunselman’s Tavern for some of the best burgers in Greater Cleveland. Comfort food is its specialty, and brunch is offered on Sundays for an old-fashioned weekend experience. Ever since it opened its doors on December 11, 1936, locals have adored the dining selections at this cozy tavern.
You’ll fall in love with some of the oldest restaurants in Greater Cleveland. Which of these eateries is your favorite?
Google Images
Greg Mason/Google Images
There’s nothing like old-school class and great Italian cuisine. If you’re looking for a combination of both, you’ll find it at Guarino’s Restaurant over in Little Italy. It was founded before Prohibition was in swing, and it served as a speakeasy for many years. Over the course of its history, it has attracted some famous guests… including, according to legend, Frank Sinatra himself.
Jeanette/Google Images
This quaint pub is so small you could almost overlook it. Almost… it’s a hidden gem, of course! Close Quarters began its life as a teeny tiny sandwich shop in 1930, and its 600 square feet have only grown more eclectic over the years. This is the place to be if you’re craving great conversation and some killer wings.
Jesse Brown/Google Images
Suzzy McLean/Google Images
Tommy’s is a name locals know and love. In fact, it’s a name that was once widely known for having the very best milkshakes on this side of the Mississippi River. It opened its doors to hungry diners in 1972, originally operating as a small soda fountain. As its popularity persisted, it grew with time – now, it can seat 125 guests.
Zac Reichard/Google Images
Michael Russino/Google Images
Pier W first opened its doors to diners in 1965, and it’s every bit as dazzling today as it was then. Perched on bluffs over our great lake, this seafood-friendly destination overlooks both Lake Erie and Cleveland. To this day, it remains one of the dreamiest restaurants for a date night in the area.
Johnny’s Bar on Fulton/Google Images
For over eight long decades, Clevelanders have enjoyed indulging at Johnny’s Bar. Its neon sign and welcoming surrounds make visitors feel right at home, and its menu includes decadent pasta dishes and seafood, as well. Your taste buds will thank you time and time again following a visit to this yummy spot.
Paul Dzurec/Google Images
Brian Reading/Google Images
In 1964, Clevelanders were introduced to an indulgent, flavorful sandwich that has since become a local staple. To this day, Slyman’s has remained old-school in its approach to dining. Its retro deli still serves up massively delicious sandwiches, and it has since expanded to include a tavern.
Donald Pearce/Google Images
Amy/Google Images
If you find yourself in Little Italy, you’ll want to take home some delicious and authentic pizza to enjoy later. Its founders moved from Sicily to the United States following World War II, and they eventually found that Little Italy shared their passion for great food. Mama Santa’s opened in 1961 and has remained a local favorite ever since.
Gunselman’s Tavern/Google Images
Joshua Dunham/Google Images
For over eight decades, diners have looked to Gunselman’s Tavern for some of the best burgers in Greater Cleveland. Comfort food is its specialty, and brunch is offered on Sundays for an old-fashioned weekend experience. Ever since it opened its doors on December 11, 1936, locals have adored the dining selections at this cozy tavern.
Are you a long-time Clevelander? You probably miss some of these long-gone local businesses.
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Address: Guarino’s Restaurant, 12309 Mayfield Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USAAddress: 31953 Lake Rd, Avon Lake, OH 44012, USAAddress: 1824 Coventry Rd, Cleveland Heights, OH 44118, USAAddress: Pier W, 12700 Lake Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107, USAAddress: 3164 Fulton Rd, Cleveland, OH 44109, USAAddress: Slyman’s Restaurant and Deli, 3106 St Clair Ave NE, Cleveland, OH 44114, USAAddress: 12301 Mayfield Rd, Cleveland, OH 44106, USAAddress: Gunselman’s Tavern, 21490 Lorain Rd, Fairview Park, OH 44126, USA
