Cleveland's food scene has improved noticeably in the last decade as Lee University's student population has grown. The classic stop is Jenkins' Deli on Inman Street, a long-standing sub-and-soup shop in a converted gas station. Bald Headed Bistro on Frontage Road does fine-dining standards (steak, seafood) in a slick contemporary room.
For barbecue, Curly's Backyard north of town is a reliable stop with smoked brisket, ribs and excellent baked beans; Stuart's Grill does roadhouse-style breakfasts and meat-and-three lunches. Around the courthouse square, Village Bakery and Café is the place for pastries, sandwiches, and coffee.
Downtown has half a dozen small craft breweries and a couple of decent wine bars, mostly clustered around Ocoee Street.