INN & OUT: CLEVELAND, OHIO
If you’ve been to Cleveland multiple times over the last decade you already know the economic development of the city has progressed substantially. Historic neo-classical, art deco and postmodern architecture have been restored and re-purposed for contemporary businesses. Whether you’re in town for one of Cleveland’s resident corporations like Key Corp, NASA, Cleveland Clinic or a big baseball game at Progressive Field, here are some GREAT spots to consider next time you’re in town:
LIBATIONS
Vault: Enjoy a handcrafted cocktail in the century-old Cleveland Trust vaults underground! Each cocktail pays tribute to a time when most of Cleveland’s wealth was stored away in this very chamber!
Great Lakes Brewery: Now in operation over 25 years these craft brewers were pioneers in our eyes. Stop by their brewery in historic and bustling Ohio City and enjoy a Great Lakes story in every beer and snack!
The Velvet Tango Room: If Craft cocktails and live jazz are your thing… you’ll love this lounge! Perfect for a date-night but better get a reservation on weekends!
The Rowley Inn: This historic gem was built on the backs of blue collars who worked the mills and steel industry in the year 1906. It would serve the ‘third shift’ starting at 5:30AM and still opens at that time today! (If you’re a Christmas Story nerd its right across the street from the famed house you can still visit).
Major Hooples: If fancy bars are not your thing… I feel you. Meet me here, up on a bluff of the Cuyahoga River with one of the best views of downtown Cleveland. It’s REAL Cleveland since 1981, same owners and all. I’ll be the one with a Miller High Life and shot of whiskey right next to it.
HOTEL
The Metropolitan at The 9: You can find the Gent Life at almost any swanky, yet historic establishment and this place is the perfect blend! Originally the 1971 Cleveland Trust Tower, it remained dormant from 1996 until 2014 when it was near demolition. It was then saved, sold and renovated into the hotel it is today!
The Renaissance Cleveland: This hotel has had several names but one thing has remained consistent; the site has been a place of lodging since 1815. The current structure opened in 1918 and has since hosted dignitaries like Harry Truman, Eleanor Roosevelt, The Beatles and MLK. (that’s a just a few).
DINING
Marble Room: Built by the sons of President Garfield in 1914, the old Guardian Savings and Trust is now home to one of the most amazing steakhouses we’ve ever entered. Although the food, staff and cocktails are amazing… its the aesthetics that make it one of the coolest restaurants we’ve ever seen.
Tip: Go downstairs and tour the vault! (you can host parties there)
Lola Bistro: Hometown hero Michael Symon’s original restaurant now located on the hopping East 4thStreet. He’s all about the meats so we recommend a bone-in-rib eye (but really, any one will do)! Good luck choosing a dessert!
Lucky’s Cafe: Featured on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives”, this place is an institution for Cleveland brunch-lovers! Warning: Biscuits and sausage-gravy can induce a sleep-coma! Dine at your own risk!
EXPLORING
West Side Market: Although the market has been in operation since 1840, its current structure was completed in 1912 and has been operating with about 100 vendors since! It’s a must-stop when visiting historic Ohio City. West Side Market
Progressive Field: The park’s outfield is back-dropped by the downtown skyline and has arguably some of the best fans in baseball.
Cheers, gents!
By, Brian McAleer
CEO & Co-Founder
Gent Life
If you find yourself in Cleveland, let us know about your experience.
Cheers, Gents!