Cleveland has an excellent mix of bars and cafes. The trendiest are downtown in the Warehouse District and Lower Euclid Avenue District. Ohio City, Tremont, and Little Italy are more laid-back and enjoyable. Coventry Village serves the college crowd. Sports bars cluster in the Gateway District near the stadiums. Some of Cleveland's best bars, both trendy and dive, are scattered throughout the city away from the main strips.
Treehouse
This pub in Tremont gets its name from the tree behind the bar. It has achieved landmark status in the neighborhood with a large mural on the side of the building depicting a toucan with a pint of Guinness on its beak. An important stop on any Tremont pub crawl, with decent bar fare, an excellent patio, and occasional live Irish music.
820 College Ave. Tel: (216) 556-5591
Presti's Bakery and Cafe
This Little Italy bakery has been around for a long time and is one of the most well-known in the Cleveland area. Drop in for specialty coffees, pastries, homemade gelato, artisan bread, pizza, gourmet sandwiches, and desserts. The cafe has tall windows and a fresh, open interior. It can get busy, but there is ample seating inside and on the sidewalk. Located in the heart of Little Italy next to Holy Rosary Church.
12101 Mayfield Rd. Tel: (216) 421-3060
McNulty's Belgian Bier Markt
The only Belgian beer bar in Cleveland, with a wide selection of imports. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a modern European bar, respecting tradition while embracing modernism in a simple, elegant setting. A large and comfortable nonsmoking section is available.
1948 W. 25th St. Tel: (216) 344-9944
Talkies Film and Coffee Bar
One of Cleveland's most unique cafes, in Ohio City on Market Avenue across from the Cleveland Film Society. The main room has a coffee bar with stools and tall tables. A second room screens classic films on a large projection screen. A great spot to combine caffeine and cinema.
2521 Market Avenue. Tel: (216) 696-FILM
Mercury Lounge
A Warehouse District spot with dark wood floors, contemporary sofas, soft lighting, and white walls. The crowd is younger and well-dressed, drinking martinis. More of a place to chill with close friends than to dance and meet new people.
1392 W. 6th. Tel: (216) 566-8840
Johnny Mango's Cafe
A "world cafe" on Bridge Avenue in Ohio City with a light-fare menu and rustic interior. One of the few juice bars in Cleveland, though alcoholic beverages are available too. Great for health-conscious visitors, with fresh and nutritious food in a smoke-free atmosphere. Nice seasonal patio.
3120 Bridge Ave. Tel: (216) 575-1919
Little Bar and Grill
One of the few Warehouse District "neighborhood" bars, and a real authentic hole-in-the-wall. On narrow Frankfort Avenue just off W. 6th, look for a small sign and door. The friendly atmosphere and steady flow of diverse regulars make it a great place. Tables and chairs on the first floor and more upstairs.
Tel: (216) 861-2166