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330 FLAVOR AWARDS

VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 1

MEANT TO BE 4 DREAM WEDDINGS EXUDE CHARM

DISHES AND

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DOUT N A T H S

JANUARY 2023

JAN. 2023 $4.95

MÉL ANGE POR K TENDER LOIN photo by Meghan Winkler

GREAT RESILIENCE PRIVATE SCHOOLS BOUNCE BACK

PAGES

JANUARY 2023 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 1

Pages start here

On The Cover

| 20 330 Flavor Awards | photo by Meghan Winkler

[ FEATURE ]

20 330 FLAVOR AWARDS Escape to a tropical oasis, a retro diner with classic cars, dazzling fine dining restaurants and more cool spaces. Experience our top picks for ambiance and over 235 of your choices for 330 Flavor Award winners.

Raspberry Beret, Square Scullery Noodle Bar photo by Meghan Winkler

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

PAGES

UNCORKED

AGENDA

BRIDAL

FitVine

[ the essential social digest ]

Distinctive weddings

[ DEPARTMENTS ]

08 MAIL BONDING 09 FROM THE PUBLISHER Pedal On

10 RADAR [ seen + heard ]

11 UPFRONT Standing Strong

12 AGENDA [ the essential social digest ] 13 Entertainment listings

+ Calendar of events

30 GOOD EATS [ notable food + drink ] 30 Restaurant listings 31 Uncorked:

FitVine 34 Untapped: Town Branch Bourbonola

59 PARTING SHOT Hudson Country Day School

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

Special Sections 36 BRIDAL Couples bring their unique visions to life.

48 EDUCATION Students are bouncing back from the pandemic.

PAGES MAIL BONDING CAMEOS OF CARING NURSES WHO GO BEYOND THEIR CALLS

RAISE A GLASS MAKE A TOAST WITH 3 SPARKLING WINES

20 VOLUME 20 | ISSUE

Tell us what's on your mind.

NEXT CHAPTER FINANCIAL STRATEGIES AFTER RETIREMENT

CELEBR ATIN G

NOVEMBER 2022

DECEMBER 2022

ON JUST A DAD FROM AKRKenny VOLUME 20 | ISSUE 12

YE A RS Lambert lifts up Kenmore

SHOP LOCAL FIND GIFTS AT 12 HUDSON STORES ELITE PHYSICIANS 2022 GIVE BACK DONATE TO THESE CHARITIES THIS SEASON

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akronlife is published monthly by Baker Media Group, LLC, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313. Copyright 2023© by Baker Media Group, LLC, All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permission. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by an addressed envelope and sufficient postage. Baker Media Group, LLC and akronlife accept no responsibility for unsolicited material. Subscription rates: Continental U.S., One year —$19.95, Two years —$34.95. Call for Alaska, Hawaii or international rates. Single issues available by calling the circulation department or visiting akronlife.com/store. $3.95 each plus $3.50 shipping & handling. Editorial, advertising and business offices: (330) 253-0056, fax (330) 253-5868.

PAGES FROM THE PUBLISHER

[ Publisher | Colin Baker | cbaker@bakermediagroup.com ]

Pedal On Accomplishing a resolution takes dedication.

Last January I wrote about how I had bought a Peloton exercise bike and was going to really get in shape. It is that season of resolutions, and being active and losing weight are often in the top five most common resolutions. I am happy to report back that the Peloton was not used as an expensive coat hanger — I have kept with it. It started with a ton of conviction, like anything I get new, and I would ride multiple times a day. I’m not a bike rider, so I had to work through the early muscle pain and muscle building. It was hard at first. I had this idea about where I should be or how I should feel, and nothing lined up with that. If you don’t have a Peloton or haven’t ridden, it is an exercise bike that has a video screen, and you are in a live or recorded class. All of your metrics, which include speed and work output, are shown on a screen so you can follow the instructor’s suggestions. You can also see where other riders are and how you compare. This was my problem in the beginning. I would get competitive and push myself too hard. I don’t know who these other people are who are at the top of the leaderboard, but they are clearly not human. I could never match the top — or even come close. The best thing I do now is turn that setting off so I only ride against myself. I have been consistent in riding, except for as I’m writing this in December. I haven’t

ridden for a few weeks. I also paused in the summer after I had stitches in my leg from an injury with a power saw. I waited a few weeks after the doctor’s recommendation and stayed off the bike. When I got back on, I was motivated because I was going to Colorado to backpack for a week, and I knew I needed to strengthen my leg. After that trip, it was a push to exercise. If I can get myself into a groove and ride three to four days a week, I then have the motivation to keep going. There also lies a problem — the motivation. My goal is

to never give up once I start. That’s the motto for everything I do, and sometimes I don’t give up to a fault. Maybe this year’s New Year’s resolution will be to keep riding another year. I was recently talking to a friend who said that they have goals or resolutions they set as the four F’s: fitness, family, finances and fun. Don’t forget to set goals for fun. That’s my favorite part and, maybe my goals will be the four F’s of fun, fun, fun, fun.

[ Publisher Colin Baker is a retired racing driver and gearhead. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com]. JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

PAGES RADAR by Kelly Petryszyn

seen + heard

DEEP DIG

photo provided by UNKNWN

In less than a 2-mile span, there are 16 vintage stores to scour for treasures in historic downtown Hartville. Grab a Hartville Antique & Thrift Trail Map to plan your route, possibly hitting Two e’s in a Pod upscale children’s resale shop or Best Bib and Tucker stylish women’s clothing consignment store. Find handmade artistry and upcycled vintage items at collectives Thirtytwo 8 Inspired & Co. or Modern Vintage. And those who are really on the hunt for hidden gems should head to the massive Hartville MarketPlace & Flea Market with over 60 shops. discoverhartville.com

START ANEW

The new year is a time to conquer big goals. Get inside Akron musician Marc Lee Shannon’s journey of over eight years of sobriety with his new book, “Sober Chronicles” ($19.99), which features essays from The Devil Strip exploring the ups and downs of his long-term journey of dealing with substance use disorder and mental health issues. Shannon, who is a singer-songwriter and played with Michael Stanley’s band the Resonators, writes with vulnerability, providing a raw look at confronting mistakes, giving yourself grace and declaring that even if you are not OK, you can still find joy. marcleeshannon.com

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

Many of us are hoping to get fit this year, so find gear at LeBron James’ sneaker and apparel shop UNKNWN, which came home to downtown Akron in fall 2022. Founders James and Akron childhood friends Jaron Kanfer and Frankie Walker Jr. first launched a Miami location but always intended to bring UNKNWN back to their hometown. University of Akron art students designed some installations for the store, and architect Sarah Krivanka designed a large Lake Erie driftwood centerpiece in front of a sleek sneaker and ballcap display wall. It sells Nike LeBron sneakers as well as items from local brands, plus it hosts fitness classes and gives back through community projects. 199 S. Main St., Akron, unknwn.com

photo provided by Marc Lee Shannon

FIT FOR A KING

PAGES UPFRONT

[ Managing Editor | Kelly Petryszyn | kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com ]

Standing Strong Northeast Ohioans have shown support for Ukraine.

left him with pain and fear for safety when he came to the U.S., say his sons. My father and uncles didn’t speak Ukrainian or go to Ukrainian school, and Tata made the choice to leave the past and focus on creating new lives for his family as Americans.

We fly a Ukrainian flag outside of our house. It was a gift from my dad as a show of support for the country my grandfather came from. So many Northeast Ohioans have shown they are standing with Ukraine in the war against Russia, which was ongoing at press time in mid-December. Ohio has the fifth largest Ukranian population in the U.S., and more than a third live in Northeast Ohio. This issue announces the winners of our 330 Flavor Awards and our editors’ picks for restaurants with great atmospheres, including Olesia’s Taverne of Richfield. I interviewed owner and chef Olesia Pochynok about her sophisticated restaurant, which serves cuisine that reflects her roots growing up on a small farm in Ukraine. Olesia’s hosted a fundraiser for Ukrainian relief efforts and raised a whopping $20,000. I rejoice Ukrainian Americans and others living in the U.S. have the freedom to help those fighting the war and can freely show support without fear. It wasn’t always like that. Between the famine and World War II, my grandfather, who his family called “Tata,” endured atrocities that

Tata grew up in his family’s farmhouse with a straw roof in Ukraine. In the early 1930s, Ukrainians, including his family, endured the Holodomor, a manmade famine in which Russia took control of Ukrainian farms and seized grains, food and livestock in a genocide that left about 4 million dead, according to Vox. In 1941 during World War II, Tata had to leave his family and home and endured forced slave labor at a labor camp in Regensburg, Germany. He had great faith and found the will to survive over three years of suffering, forced to work while being cold and hungry. Near the end of the war, Tata was labeled a “displaced person” and had about four more years of his life robbed, being stuck in refugee camps until 1948. Without knowing if his parents or brothers survived the war and facing the harrowing prospect of returning to Soviet-controlled Ukraine, Tata wrote on his displaced person card that his desired destination was “not to go home – U.S.A.” After being forced into labor for years and getting ripped from his family, home and culture, he longed for freedom. His relative and the National Catholic Welfare Conference sponsored him, and he resettled in Cleveland. He later learned that his brothers and father were among about 8 million Ukrainians killed around the time of the war. The day he became an American citizen was one of his proudest. Tata always flew an American flag and celebrated the Fourth of July, even if all he could afford was lighting

road flares. He lived with physical and mental wounds from the war but found happiness and raised a family in freedom. Tata died before I could meet him, and I will never be able to fathom the strength it took to survive the war. I’m so grateful for the sacrifice Tata made, and if it wasn’t for his bravery to choose freedom, I might not be here. His story taught me to be Ukrainian is to be a fighter and stand up against all odds. The current war began with many underestimating Ukrainians, but they have shown dogged resilience, brute determination Tata and incredible will in fighting for freedom. When I see all of the homes, businesses, utility poles and cars displaying Ukrainian flags, I rejoice that after all of these years the fear of retaliation and persecution has faded and we have the freedom to express our heritage and support. It’s also been amazing to watch my husband help with relief efforts through his job at MedWish International, which has helped send about 147,000 pounds of medical and humanitarian supplies and equipment to Ukraine. As the war reaches almost a year, consider frequenting a Ukrainian American business like Olesia’s, volunteering, donating or displaying blue and yellow in solidarity with descendants here and a country that has fought so hard for so long.

[ Managing Editor Kelly Petryszyn is an adventure seeker, forever a dreamer and an avid supporter of #TeamFiona. ] JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

AGENDA

JANUARY 2023 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 1

Agenda

photo provided by Summit Metro Parks

the essential social digest

1/28 Snowshoe Open House p19 Learn about the history of snowshoeing and try it out. Liberty Park, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg. 1-4 p.m. summitmetroparks.org

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

AGENDA

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS on akronlife.com or email asobczak@bakermediagroup.com.

NOTE: Dates, events, locations, times and prices are subject to change. Please call ahead.

Virtual Events Akron Art Museum Explore the museum’s collections online. Kiddos and those wanting to get creative can craft via video lessons. akronartmuseum. org/at-home

Akron Civic Theatre Check its Facebook for local musicians, events, stage shows and other performances. facebook.com/akroncivic

Akron Soul Train View video profiles from past, current and future Soul Train artists-in-residence. facebook.com/akronsoultrain Akron-Summit County Public Library Sit kids down for story times with children’s librarians or various book talks via videos on its Facebook page. Books are available inside or for curbside pickup. facebook.com/akronlibrary

Akron Symphony Orchestra Theron Brown, an Akronbased jazz musician, and Thomas Moore, director of marketing for the Akron Symphony Orchestra, discuss different jazz-centered topics in their podcast, “Backstage at the Hi Hat,” available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more. akronsymphony.org Akron Zoo Visit the zoo digitally to enjoy live keeper talks, animal encounters and presentations from local experts. akronzoo.org

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JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

AGENDA

The Americana Roundup Akron musician Ryan Humbert launched an online radio station, the Americana Roundup, which plays more than 3,000 songs he handpicked. The station plays all day and focuses on rock, country, folk and more. americanaroundup.com

ArtsInStark Go to its Facebook for videos with fun things to do at home including crafts and dance lessons, music performances and book readings. facebook.com/artsinstark Apollo’s Fire Indulge in music, art and literature from the Cleveland Baroque orchestra with past concert videos, interviews and readings. See shows through a digital portal or in person. apollosfire.org

Blu Jazz Jazz enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite tunes through livestreams on Blu Jazz’s Facebook page and support local artists. facebook. com/blujazzakron Canton Symphony Orchestra Watch mini concerts and learn about the issue of diversity in classical music during the “Orchestrating Change” podcast. cantonsymphony.org

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

Cleveland Orchestra Connect with the orchestra via the streaming platform Adella to access performances recorded in Severance Hall, as well as the “On a Personal Note” podcast that’s about classical music. clevelandorchestra.com

Gage House Sessions Grab your favorite drink and enjoy an evening with local musicians via Gage House’s live sessions. Check out previous shows from artists including Madison Cummins and Ben Gage, who both make for evenings of soothing tunes. facebook.com/gagehousesessions

Jilly’s Music Room The Akron music venue is hosting select Streaming Fridays on its YouTube channel. Watch the livestreams and visit the online store to order dinner, tip the band, make a donation and buy merchandise. jillysmusicroom.com Magical Theatre Company The Barberton theater company is offering game nights and educational videos. Children can also enjoy stories read by local theater veterans during Magical Storytime. magicaltheatre.org

The Nightlight Purchase tickets to rent movies online through the Akron art house cinema’s virtual screening room — you’ll have access to the films at nightlightcinema.com/ virtual-screening-room.

Radio on the Lake Theatre The Shaker Heights-based organization utilizes modern technology to connect with actors, directors and artists from throughout the country to perform and record radio plays. radioonthelaketheatre.org

Rubber City Theatre Dive into the world of online theater with its Shakespeare in the Living Room series in which professional actors perform Shakespearean works using props they found lying around their homes. facebook.com/ rubbercitytheatre

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens The North American Reciprocal Museum Association is offering virtual tours of the first floor of the manor house at Stan Hywet. Guests can tour the most impressive floor without leaving their homes. stanhywet.org Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH Learn about historical figures on their birthdays, join virtual book talks, view artifacts and more on its Facebook page. facebook.com/ summitcountyhistoricalsociety

AGENDA

Summit Metro Parks Explore many different topics, including animals, plants, different habitats, fitness and more, through virtual events. summitmetroparks.org

Up Front Art Space This Cuyahoga Falls gallery is sharing photos and videos of artwork for sale to support local creatives. facebook. com/upfrontartspace Virtual Jukebox Dance and sing along to videos made by local artists. You may have heard some of these 330 artists, like Jim Ballard, Shelby Olive and Adrian Labra on 90.7 and 91.3 Summit FM radio waves. Browse the 50-plus videos to enjoy your favorites and discover new sounds. the330.net/virtual-jukebox

Wandering Aesthetics Theatre Go on this Akron troupe’s Facebook page for performance videos from members and fans — it could be play readings, poetry, comedy, puppets, dance or whatever else artists submit. facebook. com/watheatre

Weathervane Playhouse Sign up for virtual workshops and classes for all ages that focus on dancing, acting and more. Also view short films on the theater’s YouTube channel. weathervaneplayhouse.com JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

AGENDA

In-Person Events

Through 1/14 “Now and Then: Seven Decades of Kent State Ceramics” View work by current and former full-time faculty, notable alumni and more. KSU Downtown Gallery, 141 East Main Street, Kent. Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. & Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. kent.edu/galleries

Celebrate Black singers with Our Song, Our Story Join Tuesday Musical for Our Song, Our Story on Thursday, Feb. 2, at E.J. Thomas Hall to celebrate those who paved the way for Black singers — including trailblazers Marian Anderson, Jessye Norman and Harry T. Burleigh. Two of today’s most exciting voices — soprano Jacqueline Echols and baritone Justin Austin — perform beloved operatic arias, art songs and spirituals by Handel, Puccini, Gershwin and more. A string quartet and Our Song, Our Story creator Damien Sneed on piano join them. Tickets start at $19. Tuesday Musical also provides free tickets for all students plus bus funding for student groups. Student tickets are available on concert night at the E.J. ticket office.

Tuesday Musical 330-761-3460 tuesdaymusical.org

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

Through 1/4 “Into Light Project Ohio: Continuing the Conversation” This exhibit uses portraits by Heather Bullach and Theresa Clower to humanize people and remove the stigma associated with the disease of addiction. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday 2-5 p.m. massillonmuseum.org Through 1/8 “Carry On: A Century of Swing” Learn about the history of swing-style marching band. Massillon Museum, Paul Brown Museum Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday 2-5 p.m. massillonmuseum.org

Through 1/15 “Stark County Artists Exhibition” Take in two- and threedimensional pieces at this annual juried exhibit. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday 2-5 p.m. massillonmuseum.org

photos provided by Massillon Museum

SPONSORED CONTENT

AGENDA

photos provided by Kent State University College of the Arts

Through 1/22 “Coty Giannelli: Days with Delsie” See digital photography at this Massillon Museum exhibition about the photographer being the caretaker of his grandmother. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. TuesdaySaturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday 2-5 p.m. massillonmuseum.org

Through 2/20 Winterblast Embrace the season with ice bumper cars, ice bikes, mini golf, Archie the Snowman and more. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron. lock3live.com Through 2/25 “The Me Decade” Peruse clothing and artifacts from the 1970s under a disco ball on a dance floor. McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton. TuesdaySaturday 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Kids $8, adults $10. mckinleymuseum.org

Through 5/14 “Good Hope” View wall-size pieces by a South African illustration studio. Pieces are inspired by the artists’ hometown environments. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Wednesday, FridaySunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m. $12 adult general admission. akronartmusuem.org

Through 5/28 “Pathfinders: Kent State University School of Fashion Alumni” Check out diverse approaches to fashion by Kent State University alumni who have at least six years of experience after graduation, such as Jules Acree, Deanna First, Keama Garrett, Joshua Hupper, Miyako Nakamura and Anne Skoch. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and all on Sunday, otherwise $6 general public. kent.edu/museum

Through 8/27 “As the World Weds: Global Wedding Traditions” This Kent State University Museum exhibit features pieces of clothing beyond white dresses that are incorporated in wedding ceremonies around the world. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. & Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and all on Sundays, otherwise $6 general public. kent.edu/museum 1/6, 1/13, 1/20 & 1/27 Lunchtime Yoga Relax with some beginner-friendly yoga at the Massillon Museum each Friday. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. 12:30-1:15 p.m. $6 class, $15 three classes. massillonmuseum.org

1/7 Drive the Cold Winter Away Warm up with this performance of Old English carols and ballads and Irish and Appalachian folk tunes. Blu Jazz, 47 E. Market St., Akron. 8 p.m. $25. apollosfire.org

1/7 Local, Live 2023: Ravenwood Jam to music by this Akron alternative rock band. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 7:30 p.m. $25. cantonpalacetheatre.org

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

1/13 Winter Exhibitions Opening Night Celebrate

1/7, 1/14, 1/21 & 1/28 Winery Tours Learn

1/8, 1/15, 1/22 & 1/29 Distillery Tasting Tours

about Gervasi Vineyard’s winemaking facility, then enjoy four wine tastings, a wine glass and four chefselected bites. Gervasi Vineyard, the Crush House, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 1:30-2:30 p.m. or 3:30-4:30 p.m. $27. gervasivineyard.com

Go behind the scenes of the distillery at Gervasi Vineyard during a tour, then enjoy three spirit tastings and take home a shot glass and a salty snack. Gervasi Vineyard, the Still House, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 2-3 p.m. $17. gervasivineyard.com

1/8 Comfort Food & Wine Pairing Get cozy with

Discuss what you’ve been reading while you sew or knit at this event Jan. 11 at 6 p.m. or Jan. 25 at 2 p.m. White Rabbit Galleries, 571 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton. barbertonlibrary.org

comfort food and four of Gervasi Vineyard’s awardwinning wines. Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 4:30-5:30 p.m. $39. gervasivineyard.com

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

1/11 & 1/25 Hooks & Books

1/12-14 & 1/26-28 Award-Nominated Film Series Watch this year’s top films on Canton’s largest screen. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 7:30 p.m. $7. cantonpalacetheatre.org

the new exhibitions at Summit Artspace at this event that features an awards announcement and an artists’ panel themed “Celebrating Queer Voices and Journeys.” Summit Artspace, 140 E. Market St., Akron. 5-7 p.m. Free. summitartspace.org

1/13-3/18 Winter Exhibitions See exhibits like the “Fresh” juried exhibit, “Still Moving” by Atefeh Farajolahzadeh, “The Corner” by Chris Harvey, “Social Justice Student Art” and more. Summit Artspace, 140 E. Market St., Akron. Friday noon-7 p.m. & Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. summitartspace.org 1/14, 1/21 & 1/28 Coffee with the Birds Check out which birds visit the wildlife viewing area while keeping warm with a hot beverage. Liberty Park, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg. 10-11 a.m. summitmetroparks.org

photos provided by Gervasi Vineyard and Summit Artspace

AGENDA

photos provided by Summit Metro Parks and Gervasi Vineyard

AGENDA

1/19 & 1/25 Kinderealm: Winter Trackers Children 3 to 6 can learn about animal tracks, play a game and take a hike in search of footprints. F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, 1828 Smith Road, Akron & Liberty Park, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg. 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. summitmetroparks.org 1/20 & 2/17 Wine and Paint Paint a tenrec during this event led by an instructor. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 6-9 p.m. $35 members, $40 nonmembers. akronzoo.org

1/21-2/19 Epiphany Arts Festival View art by over 200 local artists at this 23rd annual festival hosted by and held at the Bath United Church of Christ. 3980 W. Bath Road, Akron. Sunday noon-3 p.m. Wednesday 1-4 p.m. & Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. bathucc.org

1/27-3/18 “Link Between Roots (Mexican / Mexican American Print Show)” See over 30 pieces made with printmaking techniques focused on Mexican culture. KSU Downtown Gallery, 141 East Main St., Kent. MondayFriday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. & Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. kent.edu/galleries

1/28 McKinley Day / Pet Appreciation Day Head to the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum for a wreath laying ceremony at noon. Donate pet supplies between Jan. 3 and Jan. 28 for discounted admission. McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton. mckinleymuseum.org

1/29 Bourbon & Bites Try maple cask, wine barrel and rum barrel bourbons paired with four delicious bites made by the Gervasi Vineyard culinary team. Gervasi Vineyard, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 4:30 p.m. $39. gervasivineyard.com

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS on akronlife.com or email asobczak@ bakermediagroup.com.

1/28 Snowshoe Open House Learn about the history of snowshoeing and try it out. Liberty Park, 9999 Liberty Road, Twinsburg. 1-4 p.m. summitmetroparks.org JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

by Kelly Petryszyn and Alexandra Sobczak photos by Meghan Winkler

THE FIF

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CO O L SPAC E S M AK E DI NI NG M E M OR A B L E . E SC AP E TO A TRO P I C AL OA SIS, A R E T R O DI NE R W I TH C L ASSI C C ARS, DAZ Z L I N G F I NE DI NI NG RE STAU RANTS AND M OR E . E X P E RI E NC E O U R TO P P I C K S F OR AM B I A N C E AND OVE R 23 5 O F YO U R C H OICE S F OR TH E 3 3 0 F L AVO R AWARD W INNE R S.

Luau scorpion bowl 20

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

Scallops

ISLAND VACATION A cedar door carved with a tiki is the gateway into a tropical oasis at Tiki Underground, which looks like a shipwreck inside. “The far side is the side of the volcano the ship ran aground, and the other side is the ship itself,” says co-owner Sean Coffey of the cocktail bar that opened in Hudson in 2017 and relocated to Cuyahoga Falls in 2022. Arched wooden beams and portholes showing fish at the National Aquarium create the illusion of the design by “Doktor” Bill Lynn, an artist and Kahuna Kings drummer who has played the bar. Lynn made a molten concrete wall with skulls to emulate volca-

nic rock that backs the thatch roof-covered bar. And a hallway becomes the jungle with hanging plants and a giant skull with glowing red eyes. “The idea for any tiki bar is escapism,” says Coffey. “You lose track of time. That’s the idea of forgetting about your troubles.” Tiki Underground tells stories of the tiki movement through gallery-worthy memorabilia, including a large wooden tiki from Cleveland’s former Kon Tiki and tiki mugs, including a red one from Hades Hula House in Australia, from Coffey’s home tiki bar collection. “Within tiki culture … you learn about different cultures from the South Pacific,” says

cocktail creator “Tonga” Tim Harnett, who teaches cocktail classes and released a cocktail recipe book. “There’s nearly a century of history behind these drinks.”

traditional St. Lucia spiced rum and coconut cream, which gives it a foamy texture. Bring a friend to share the potent 1958 luau scorpion bowl ($12-$24) that has orange and lime and packs a punch from 5 or 10 combined ounces of gin, brandy and rum — but the shocker is that it’s set on fire.

The drink menu pays tribute to historic tiki recipes, signatures and riffs on classics. It also serves small plates like scallops and short rib empanadas from One Bite Kitchen. Coffey shares that Tiki Newcomers often start with Underground has converted the 1944 mai tai ($11), with about 15 to 20 customers a base of dark rum, Curacao into tiki enthusiasts, includand lime, and compare it to ing two who have traveled to the TU mai tai ($11), which every U.S. tiki bar. swaps orgeat for falernum, creating a spicier and sweeter “It’ll take over your life if you’re not careful,” Coffey version than the citrus-forsays with a smile. KP ward original. An eye-popper is the Blue Eyed Sailor ($9), a 1832 Front St., Cuyahoga riff on a blue Hawaiian with Falls, tikiunderground.com fresh pineapple, blue Curacao,

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

330 FLAVOR AWARDS Best Restaurant in The 330 1 . Divine Food Spirits Wine 2 . Kingfish 3 . Beau’s Grille Best New Restaurant 1 . Beau’s Market & Deli 2 . Hermosillo Taco & Tequila Bar 3 . Social at the Stone House 3 . Totally Baked Pizza Best Restaurant in Downtown Akron 1 . Diamond Grille 2 . Luigi’s Restaurant 3 . Crave Best Restaurant in Medina County 1 . Thyme2 2 . Gandalf’s Pub & Restaurant 3 . Galaxy Restaurant Best Restaurant in Summit County 1 . Kingfish 2 . Beau’s Grille 3 . Luigi’s Restaurant Best Restaurant in Portage County 1 . Bistro on Main 2 . Arnie’s West Branch Steak House 3 . Bricco Best Restaurant in Stark County 1 . Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery 2 . Gervasi Vineyard 2 . Bender’s Tavern 3 . Desert Inn 3 . Twisted Olive 3 . Papa Gyros Best Chef in The 330 1 . Beau Schmidt, Beau’s Grille and Beau’s on the River 2 . Eric Wright, Kingfish 3 . Patrick Amato, Divine Food Spirits Wine 3 . Dan Remark, Magic City’s Remarkable Diner 22

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WINNERS Best Restaurateur 1 . Beau Schmidt 2 . Renee Kintz 3 . Michael Bruno Best Service Staff 1 . Beau’s Grille 2 . Divine Food Spirits Wine 3 . Jilly’s Music Room Best Brunch 1 . Rosewood Grill 2 . Beau’s Grille 3 . Burntwood Tavern Best A.M. Adult Drinks 1 . Blue Door Cafe & Bakery 2 . Caston & Main Brew Yard 3 . Magic City’s Remarkable Diner Best Chicken & Waffles 1 . Blue Door Cafe & Bakery 2 . Magic City’s Remarkable Diner 3 . Beau’s Grille Best Benedict 1 . Beau’s Grille 2 . Wally Waffle 3 . Rosewood Grill Best Sandwich 1 . Beau’s Market & Deli 2 . Diamond Deli 3 . Winking Lizard Tavern Best Classic Burger 1 . Swensons Drive-In 2 . D&M Grille 3 . Rosewood Grill Best Specialty Burger 1 . Menches Bros. Restaurant 2 . Magic City’s Remarkable Diner 3 . Ray’s Place Best Veggie Burger 1 . Mustard Seed Market & Cafe 2 . Butcher & Sprout 3 . Swensons Drive-In 3 . Galaxy Restaurant

Smoked cauliflower and sweet potato

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

TINY WONDER

Smoked duck bao buns

Smoked pork ramen

Tamagoyaki

Cozy and hip, Square Scullery Noodle Bar features just 13 indoor seats — a wraparound booth with cheetahprint cushions and light blue chairs. Its innovative dishes draw in guests to the point that staffers have to turn away up to 30 people in an evening.

food, they make recommendations, and they just become friends.” Popular customer picks include various ramens ($16-$18) and the Tamagoyaki ($14), which is a take on deviled eggs. The egg whites form an ovular base, while a togarashi hollandaise emulates the inner yolk. Prosciutto takes the place of bacon crumbs, and paprika smoked in-house and dill top the dish.

The Highland Square business started as a food truck and then a carryout-only “That’s what we shoot for — kitchen, but diners wanted those classics that are very to stay and eat in the waiting approachable, but then have room, which had just a couch a slight weird element to it,” and a coffee table. After 1 Ulichney says. 1/2-months of DIY artsy renovation, the transformed Another favorite is the dining room opened in late smoked duck bao buns ($18), 2019. The co-owners painted which involve curing the a colorful geometric mural, duck for five days in a fruity hung faux flowers and greenpink peppercorn salt before ery from tiered frames on the smoking it in cherry wood ceiling and turned fishing basand whiskey barrel wood kets from Thailand into light chips, creating an earthy fixtures. They framed pieces flavor. The dish comes with of artwork like one that’s a watermelon radish and apple guide to florals and another slaw, candied shishito peppers, that blends root vegetables crispy garlic, sesame seeds and with the female form. roasted fennel aioli. “The goal was to create … a “There’s a lot of citrusy fruit whole immersive experience,” notes … that really make it says co-owner Heather pop,” he says. “They’re very Bailey. “We wanted people vibrant.” to be submerged in this culture … with this quirky, “We do some wild food, in kitschy environment.” a little bit of a wild space,” Bailey says. “It took a life of The experience often involves its own as we started putting camaraderie between diners. the pieces together. So we ran with it like, We’re just gonna “When we’re filled, you embrace our weird.” AS get to know everybody sitting around you pretty Behind American Legion quickly,” says co-owner and Post 19, 783 W. Market St., chef Matthew Ulichney. Akron, squarescullery.com “Sometimes people will share

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330 FLAVOR AWARDS

GRAND LUXURY Once a hotel with a lavish grand ballroom and recently the Taverne of Richfield, the 1886 robin’s egg-blue Victorian Richfield landmark was in disrepair — and its rich history was at risk of being lost. Chef Olesia Pochynok saw the potential for a new location for her refined Ukrainian American restaurant that she opened in 2012. “I fell in love with the building,” says Pochynok. The $2 million makeover started with contractors taking it down to the studs, fixing structural issues and making it accessible. Pochynok and her husband, Joe Butano, partnered with Architectural Justice to retain its Victorian elegance while adding contemporary upscale flair. “We made new pieces look like old pieces so they all match the late 1800s theme,” she says. Opening up the main floor, they centralized the bar, which now has a gorgeous illuminated quartz and marble bar top, custom wrought-iron scroll medallions adorning dark woods and teal leather tufted stools. They unveiled and restored a 1917 mural of a Williamsburg, Virginia, palace and added a Victorian front to a fireplace. Butano redid the basement lounge into a speakeasy with live music, topping the bar with 19,462 pennies spelling out Olesia and Joe. They restored the wood floors in the upstairs ballroom and added 1800s chandeliers from an Akron hotel.

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Blackened scallops

Olesia’s Taverne of Richfield opened in 2020, serving sophisticated from-scratch Old World dishes reinterpreted from Pochynok’s upbringing on a farm in a Ukrainian village where they raised animals and grew produce for homemade meals, such as pierogies, which they made nearly daily. Pochynok uses milk, sour cream and butter for her pierogies ($17) and fills them with cheddar, cream cheese and potatoes to create a fluffy, soft texture. For more indulgence, you can top them with melt-in-yourmouth short ribs (extra $12). She crafts red borscht from childhood memories. While her grandma cooked the soup with meat and bones, she makes it with beets, cabbage and more veggies but still adds a touch of sweet and sour. “I use vinegar for sour, little honey and sugar for the sweetness and roasted peppers,” she says. “That’s how my grandma used to make it.” Order it on its own ($5-$8) or as a soup flight ($9) with house-made velvety lobster and crab bisque and comforting chicken paprikash. Pochynok is happy to save a historic gem and is proud to share her Ukrainian heritage. “I wanted to show other people a part of my culture,” she says. “It’s really nice to know people enjoy it. … That drives me to do more.” KP 3960 Broadview Road, Richfield, olesiastaverne.com

Soup flight

WINNERS Best Reuben 1 . Diamond Deli 2 . Gasoline Alley 3 . Magic City’s Remarkable Diner

Best Jojos 1 . D & M Grille 2 . Fiesta Pizza & Chicken 3 . Gionino’s Pizzeria

Best Barbecue 1 . Jimmy’s Backyard BBQ 2 . Old Carolina Barbecue Co. 3 . Oak & Embers Tavern

Best Takeout 1 . Rockne’s Pub 2 . Lucky Star Chinese Carryout 3 . Magic City’s Remarkable Diner

Best Wings 1 . Winking Lizard Tavern 2 . Beau’s Grille 3 . Gionino’s Pizzeria

Best Drive-in 1 . Swensons Drive-In 2 . Doodle Drive-in 3 . Skyway Drive-In

Best Fried Chicken 1 . Belgrade Gardens 2 . Mark & Philly’s Pizza 3 . Kingfish

Best Sauerkraut Balls 1 . Divine Food Spirits Wine 2 . Rockne’s Pub 3 . Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s

Best Steakhouse 1 . Alexander Pierce Restaurant 2 . Diamond Grille 3 . Beau’s Grille Best Farm-to-Table 1 . Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery 2 . Beau’s Market & Deli 3 . Butcher & Sprout 3 . The Farmer’s Rail Best Gastropub 1 . Divine Food Spirits Wine 2 . Darby’s on Fifty-Nine 3 . Lager & Vine Gastropub & Wine Bar Best Tacos 1 . El Fogon Mexican Grill 2 . El Ranchos Mexican Restaurant 3 . Hermosillo Taco & Tequila Bar Best Mexican Restaurant 1 . El Fogon Mexican Grill 2 . Tres Potrillos 3 . Tito’s Mexican Grill

Pierogies with short ribs

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

Best Appetizer Menu 1 . D’Agnese’s at White Pond 2 . Beau’s Grille 3 . Divine Food Spirits Wine Best Charcuterie 1 . Beau’s Market & Deli 2 . The Farmer’s Table 3 . D.B.A. Dante Boccuzzi Akron Spiciest Food in The 330 1 . Golden Dragon Chinese & Japanese Restaurant 2 . The Saffron Patch 3 . El Meson Mexican Restaurant 3 . Nepali Kitchen 3 . Rice Paper Thai Cuisine Best Cocktails 1 . Beau’s Grille 2 . Divine Food Spirits Wine 3 . Jilly’s Music Room Best Happy Hour 1 . Kingfish 2 . Beau’s Grille 3 . Jerzee’s Sports Grille 3 . Jilly’s Music Room Best Margaritas 1 . El Fogon Mexican Grill 2 . El Rancho Mexican Restaurant 3 . Casa del Rio Express JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

Best Mules 1 . 111 Bistro 2 . Kingfish 3 . Rosewood Grill Best Restaurant Beer Selection 1 . Winking Lizard Tavern 2 . The Basement Sports Bar & Grill 3 . The Lockview

Best Thai Cuisine 1 . Cilantro 2 . Thai Gourmet 3 . Lemongrass Grill 3 . Bangkok Thai Restaurant Best Indian Food 1 . The Saffron Patch 2 . Bombay Sitar 3 . Tandoori Kabobs

Best Brewery 1 . Fat Head’s Brewery 2 . Eighty-Three Brewery 3 . Ignite Brewing Co.

Best Mediterranean Food 1 . Aladdin’s Eatery 2 . Continental Cuisine 3 . Desert Inn

Best Winery 1 . The Winery at Wolf Creek 2 . Gervasi Vineyard 3 . Sarah’s Vineyard 3 . It’s Your Winery

Best Artisan Food Shop 1 . Beau’s Market & Deli 2 . The Farmer’s Rail 3 . DeVitis Fine Italian Foods

Best Coffee 1 . Akron Coffee Roasters 2 . Nervous Dog Coffee Bar 3 . Tremont Coffee Best Coffee Shop Atmosphere 1 . Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea 2 . Nervous Dog Coffee Bar 3 . Kave Coffee Bar 3 . Angel Falls Coffee Co. Best Bubble Tea 1 . T-Bubbles 2 . Maki House 3 . Ming’s Bubble Tea Best Sushi 1 . Kasai Japanese Restaurant 2 . Golden Dragon Chinese & Japanese Restaurant 3 . Sakura Sushi Best Chinese Takeout 1 . Bill Hwang Chinese Restaurant 2 . Lucky Star Chinese Carryout 3 . Golden Dragon Chinese & Japanese Restaurant

WINNERS

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

Best Pizza 1 . Gionino’s Pizzeria 2 . Fosters Tavern of Hinckley 3 . Luigi’s Restaurant Best Italian Restaurant 1 . Luigi’s Restaurant 2 . Santosousos’ Pizza Pasta Vino 3 . D’Agnese’s at White Pond 3 . Dontino’s Fine Italian Cuisine Best Noodles 1 . D’Agnese’s at White Pond 2 . Divine Food Spirits Wine 3 . Bugsy’s Italian Cuisine Best Seafood 1 . Kingfish 2 . Chowder House Cafe 3 . Beau’s Grille Best Salads 1 . Rockne’s Pub 2 . Galaxy Restaurant 3 . Butcher & Sprout

Pork tenderloin

Duck confit poutine, Korean corn dogs and charred octopus

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

MIX MASTER

fluorescent lights that read, An illuminated “Dine. Drink. Dance” in script European hand-blown and a light-up bar seasonally glass flower ceiling à la serving drinks streetside from the Bellagio in Las Vegas, a retractable glass-enclosed palm fronds and tropical patio. Inside, the extravagance flowers on South Beachcontinues with a honeycomb esque wallcoverings, wood wall, locally handcrafted European branzino with walnut tables and red faux beurre blanc — Mélange velvet and leather seating. brings together global An L-shaped bar lights up flourishes and artful in changing hues near green fusion dishes to create a velvet gold-trimmed bar stools vibrant fine dining desand glass ice cube pendant tination that shakes up lights. Even the bathrooms the Canton dining scene. are memorable, with whimsical wallcoverings of Benjamin “It brings livelihood that Franklin blowing bubblegum downtown needs,” says in the men’s room and queen Nick Pamboukis, CEO of of hearts in the women’s room. Contemporary Culinary that also owns Alexander Pierce If diners want to keep the Restaurant in Akron. party going, Mélange’s patrononly club, Encore Lounge, The sumptuous accents start at stuns with a red velvet curtain the curb with a striking marentrance, a color-changing quee with orange-and-green crystal chandelier, a bar with

hexagonal illuminated shelves, a cheeky neon blue script sign that says, “Trust me, you can dance - Tequila” and an LED programmable dance floor, where clientele can boogie to DJ-spun R&B and club records or attend shows. Like the lavish decor, the food impresses.

To enliven a whole Maine lobster (market price), Hill brushes it with Jamaican jerk-infused butter, charred pineapple and toasted almond couscous. He elevates fair food with the Korean corn dogs ($12). Kobe beef dogs are coated in a crispy corn batter made with flour from Korea and topped with panko breadcrumbs. They sing with a drizzle of honey mustard and gochujang ketchup, which is made in-house with Korean fermented chili paste for showstopping flavor.

“Mélange means to mix in French,” Pamboukis says. “From traditional things at a fine dining establishment to things at a street vendor that people love, it’s a mix of everything … the atmosphere, “Between the crunch and the the menu.” sweet yet tangy fermented chili paste,” Hill says, “the Executive chef Frank Hill’s combinations make your taste high-end mashups include KP buds dance.” duck confit poutine with demi-glace, pork tenderloin with aged cheddar grits and soy-glazed charred octopus with crisp pork belly.

221 Market Ave. N, Canton, melangerestaurant.com

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

330 FLAVOR AWARDS 33O FLAVOR AWARDS

Strawberry milkshake

FUEL STATION A ’52 Mercedes, a ’66 Volkswagen bus, a ’57 Chevy convertible, a ’56 BMW Isetta and a ’57 Thunderbird are parked inside a former gas station with old-school gas pumps outside under an overhang with classic cars. It isn’t a car museum — it’s a diner. “We pop the hoods because a lot of the guys come in to see the engines,” says Chloe Doll, the owner of Chloe’s Diner in Massillon and a senior at Canton Central Catholic High School. “They’re all in the condition of how they were.”

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

The eye-catching collection has taken Jeff Doll, Chloe’s dad and owner of Jeff ’s Motorcars dealership, years to build. But that pace was worth it — people love looking at the cars and reminiscing about ones they used to have. “When grandpas bring their grandkids in, they’re so excited,” Jeff says. “You can see it in their faces. They light up.” Each car is parked next to a gas pump and other memorabilia like Soap Box Derby cars, posters of fuel and tire brands, neon signs and classic motorcycles hang from the ceiling and walls. There’s a big Elvis statue, a jukebox and a classic Big Boy diner statue. Glass garage doors open to pet-friendly patio

seating near the gas pumps during the warmer months. Chloe’s Diner opened in July 2021 after Chloe pitched it to her dad, who was brainstorming things to do with his car collection. They decided on classic breakfast food and diner fare, bringing the past into the present. Customers rave about the burger slider and its freshly baked bun from Amish Country. The burger is ground beef, either one ($2.79), two ($4.29) or three ($5.49) patties, and is topped with caramelized onions, dill pickles, ketchup and mustard. Combos include sides like fries and garlic bread, but save room for a shake.

Milkshakes ($5.49) are made at the front counter, where Chloe usually works, and come in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, strawberry and Oreo, along with seasonal flavors like a shamrock shake. As of recently, diners can choose what flavor of ice cream to use as the base of the shake. “We serve them in these big metal tins, how they were made back then,” Chloe says. “It stays nice and cold in the tin with a big straw and whipped cream. … You feel like you’re back where it all started.” AS 112 First St. NE, Massillon, chloesdiner.com

WINNERS Best Vegetarian / Vegan Food 1 . Mustard Seed Market & Cafe 2 . Aladdin’s Eatery 3 . Ms. Julie’s Kitchen Best House-made White French Dressing 1 . Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s 2 . Divine Food Spirits Wine 3 . Bistro on Main xxx Sliders

Best Cheesecake 1 . The West Side Bakery 2 . Kingfish 3 . Sweet Mary’s Bakery Best Cake 1 . Pallotta’s Pastries 2 . The West Side Bakery 3 . Tiffany’s Bakery 3 . Ann’s Pastry Shop Best Cupcake 1 . Pallotta’s Pastries 2 . The West Side Bakery 3 . Pandora’s Cupcakes 3 . Sunshine Cupcakes Best Doughnuts 1 . Jubilee Donuts 2 . Rise & Grind 3 . North Hill Donuts Best Frozen Dessert 1 . Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt 2 . Pav’s Creamery 2 . Stricklands Frozen Custard 3 . Skoops Ice Cream

Grilled chicken sandwich

Best Chocolates 1 . Hartville Chocolate Factory 2 . Malley’s Chocolates 3 . Heggy’s Nut Shop Best Caterer 1 . Totally Cooked Event Management & Catering 2 . Moe’s Restaurant 3 . Vaccaro’s Trattoria 3 . Jimmy’s Backyard BBQ

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

Best Food Truck 1 . Swensons Drive-In 2 . Wholly Frijoles Mexican Street Food 3 . Stray Dog Cafe Best Dining with a View 1 . Beau’s on the River 2 . Twisted Olive 3 . Gervasi Vineyard 3 . Lanning’s Restaurant Best Place to Eat at the Bar 1 . Jilly’s Music Room 1 . Jerzee’s Sports Grille 2 . Magic City’s Remarkable Diner 3 . Divine Food Spirits Wine 3 . Kingfish Best Sports Bar 1 . Jerzee’s Sports Grille 2 . Winking Lizard Tavern 3 . The Basement Sports Bar & Grill Best Place to Eat and Watch a Live Performance 1 . Jilly’s Music Room 2 . Gervasi Vineyard 3 . Divine Food Spirits Wine Most Romantic Restaurant 1 . The Bistro of Green 2 . Lanning’s Restaurant 3 . Ken Stewart’s Lodge Best Restaurant to Take the Kids 1 . Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery 2 . Spaghetti Warehouse 3 . Totally Baked Pizza Best Food or Drink Festival 1 . FreedomFest 2 . Oktoberfest 3 . Taste of Italia

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

GOOD EATS

JANUARY 2023 | VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 1

Restaurants [ notable food & drink ]

B Breakfast L Lunch D Dinner A Alcohol available T Takeout available V Valet parking W Wheelchair Accessible $ average entrees less than $6 $$ average entrees between $6-$10 $$$ average entrees between $11-$16 $$$$ average entrees are $17 or higher Information subject to change. Please call ahead to verify location, hours and events.

Akron Family Restaurant Neighborhood meeting place, homey atmosphere, reasonable prices. 250 W. Market St., Akron, 330-376-0600 $$ B, L, D, T, W Aladdin’s Eatery Outdoor dining area, tasty Mediterranean cuisine. 782 W. Market St., Akron, 330-535-0110; 1991 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-4640; 44 Park Lane, Hudson 330-656-0560; 3895 Medina Road, Fairlawn, 330-665-3102 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Al’s Corner Restaurant Old World comfort food served cafeteria style. Cabbage rolls and sausage made locally are a favorite. 155 Second St. NW, Barberton, 330-475-7978 $$ L, T, W Alexander Pierce Restaurant Fine dining menu of steaks, house-made pastas, calamari misto and cavatelli alla vodka in an intimate speakeasy-style atmosphere. 797 E. Market St., Akron, 330-529-2003 $$$ D, A Arcadia Grille Authentic Italian cuisine with pasta and chops. Breakfast served Sat. and Sun. A local favorite for more than 85 years. 321 Court Ave. NW, Canton, 330-454-6055 $$ B, L, D, A, W Arnie’s Public House An attractive, affordable restaurant with a modern twist on comfort food. Featuring award-winning burgers, chicken and waffles, fish and chips, pasta and vegetarian dishes. 1682 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-0154 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Arnie’s West Branch Steak House Casual dining, specializing in steak, ribs and seafood. 5343 state Route 14, Ravenna, 330-297-1717 $$$ D, A, T Barley House Hot and cold deli sandwiches, gourmet pizzas, soups and more. 222 S. Main St., Akron, 330-374-0925 $$ L, D, A, T, W 30

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Basil Asian Bistro Menu features Thai, Chinese and Korean dishes, as well as sushi and Vietnamese specialties. 585 Market Ave. N, Canton, 330-4523888; 145 W Liberty St., Wooster, 330601-0885 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Beau’s Grille Well-regarded, innovative menu at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn. 3180 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330867-5218 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Beau’s on the River Stunning views of the falls with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary decor. Fusion eclectic cuisine, lunch buffet and Sun. brunch. Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls, 1989 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-920-7530 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood. 137 Court Ave. SW, Canton, 330-453-8424 $$$$ L, D, A, T Big Eu’es BBQ Known for delicious barbecue meals and Kool Aid pies. The takeout spot also has a small dining area. 1730 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-706-6700 $$ L, D, T The Bistro at Gervasi Vineyard Situated on a 55-acre estate in a renovated historic barn that overlooks a beautiful lake. Serving rustic Italian fare using only fresh and seasonal ingredients. 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330-497-1000 $$$ L, D, A The Bistro of Green An upscale dining establishment with a diverse menu that features some of Akron’s finest cuisine and gluten-free options made from fresh ingredients. Has a large selection of wine, beer and cocktails, and the inviting atmosphere offers a memorable experience. 3459 Massillon Road, Uniontown, 330-896-1434 $$$$ D, T, A Blue Canyon Kitchen & Tavern Creative American fare in six nature-inspired dining environments. Sun. brunch buffet. 8960 Wilcox Drive, Twinsburg, 330-486-2583 $$$$ L, D, A, T, W Blue Door Cafe & Bakery Chef-driven sandwiches, quiche, crepes, housemade pastries and rotating specials made using local ingredients. Voted No. 1 brunch in Ohio. Drive-thru available. 1970 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-926-9774 $$$ B, L, T, A

Bob’s Hamburg Classic family diner with affordable favorites such as the BBQ Bonanza burger. 1351 East Ave., Akron, 330-253-2627; Inside Ray’s Pub, 801. W. Market St., Akron, 330805-1456 $ B, L, D, W, T Boiling House Authentic Louisiana seafood boils with king crab legs and lobster tail. A unique sushi menu diversifies the offerings. 1 W. Exchange St., Suite 150, Akron, 234571-9692 $$$$ L, D, T Bombay Sitar Fine Indian cuisine. Food is natural and prepared fresh daily. 5111 Fulton Drive NW, Canton, 330305-0671 $$ L, D, T, W Bricco Open since September 2003, this restaurant is known for its eclectic seasonal menu, wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. 1 W. Exchange St., Akron, 330-475-1600 $$$ L, D, A, T, V, W Bricco in Kent Menu is modeled after the original Bricco in downtown Akron. A la carte brunch on Sun. 210 S. Depeyster St., Kent, 330-677-1335 $$$ L, D, A, T Burntwood Tavern Owned by the same couple that runs the other Burntwood locations, this restaurant’s menu features steaks, sliders, smoked, planked and woodgrilled food. 2291 Riverfront Parkway, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-794-7085; 4320 Everhard Road NW, Canton, 234-2099746; 3750 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 234-466-7372 $$$$ L, D, A, T, W The Cabin Upscale Italian within the Mario’s International Spa and Hotel complex. 35 E. Garfield Road, Aurora, 330-562-9171 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T Cafe Bricco This menu is a smaller version of the one at the original Bricco location downtown. DoubleTree Hotel, 3150 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-835-2203 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Cana Valley Winery Check out this winery’s 13 varieties. Bring in your own food. 5665 Waterloo Road, Atwater, 330-596-3017 $$$$ D, A Canal Tavern of Zoar Fine casual dining in Zoar’s original tavern and inn. Features steaks and chops, seafood and Zoar-inspired German cuisine, as well as draft brews and extensive wine list. Sun. brunch. Patio bar and dining along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. 8806 Towpath Road, NE, Bolivar, 330-874-4444 $$$ L, D, A, T

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Caston & Main Brew Yard This cozy, casual gastropub with a fireplace and two outdoor patios with fire features offers a large variety of craft beer including 32 taps, with wine, specialty cocktails and 140-plus bourbons, whiskeys and spirits including rare selections. The chefdriven menu offers house-made flatbreads, sandwiches and beer cheese, as well as Sun. brunch. 5010 S. Main St., Akron, 330-882-CASK (2275) $$$ L, D, A Ceedo’s Eatery Traditional Middle Eastern food — kosher and halal — including shawarma and falafel, stuffed whole lamb, hummus, tabbouleh and kibbeh. Closed Mon. 4147 Bridgewater Parkway, Stow, 330-940-2424 $$ B, L, D, T Cellar 59 Wine Bar & Wine Shop The menu in this renovated 19th-century farmhouse features small plates, desserts, bottles of wine and craft beer. Closed Sun. and Mon. 3984 Kent Road, Stow, 330-688-2684 $$$ L, D, A, T Chalet in the Valley Located in the heart of Amish Country and known for its authentic Swiss and Austrian cuisine. While the menu features a new spin on sandwich classics like the Chalet deluxe Reuben or Rachel, it’s famous for schnitzels, which come in six different varieties: weiner, chicken, schwein, jaeger, kase and Reuben. 5060 state Route 557, Millersburg, 330-893-2550 $$$ L, D, T Chameleon Cafe With a variety of coffee flavors and drinks, it’s a great stop for some caffeine or a quick bite. Features vegan grilled cheeses like the “Not Yo Daddy’s” grilled cheese. The cafe also offers breakfast sandwiches, lunch power bowls, appetizers, lunchtime options and bakery muffins. 23 S. Main St., Akron, 234-334-3603 $$ B, L, T Chowder House Cafe Salads, seafood dishes, oysters and clam chowder. 1244 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330794-7102 $$$ L, D, A, T Cilantro Thai & Sushi Restaurant Upscale Thai and Japanese, extensive menu, fresh ingredients, handselected sushi and no monosodium glutamate. 326 S. Main St., Akron, 330-434-2876 $$$ L, D, A, T

GOOD EATS UNCORKED by Eric Van Sant

FitVine Lodi, California

Many of us have been indulging in more drinking during these stir-crazy times, so the start of this new year is a good time to select a better-foryou wine. FitVine is a first of that kind and continues to be popular. Started by Tom Beaton and Mark Warren in 2015, the wine is made from grapes they source from sustainable growers throughout California in areas like Lodi, Sonoma, Napa and the Sierra Foothills. FitVine uses an extended fermentation process that, according to its website, provides lower sugar, so that each bottle has less than one gram of sugar and no flavor additives while remaining veganfriendly and gluten-free. Here are some options to sip on, guilt-free.

CABERNET SAUVIGNON A clean version of classic cabernet sauvignon ($14.99), it is full-bodied with dark fruit on the front. It’s balanced, with a hint of oak and soft tannins that round out coffee notes, providing a finish that is soft and supple.

CHARDONNAY An easy-drinking chardonnay ($14.99), it is fruit-forward without a huge amount of oak on the palate. Fermenting in stainless steel instead of oak allows for the citrus and tropical notes to shine, and a crisp, clean finish follows through.

SPARKLING PROSECCO Bubbly and bright, this sparkling prosecco ($18.99) pops with pear and green apple notes. It finishes light and enjoyable on the palate with soft minerality and finesse. Find FitVine wines in select Acme Fresh Market, Heinen’s, Discount Drug Mart and Giant Eagle locations.

[ Eric Van Sant is a sales manager with Heidelberg Distributing Co. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com]. JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

GOOD EATS Circle L Steakhouse at the Galaxy The new menu offers a wide selection of steak cuts, and the atmosphere provides an upscale, rustic feel. Sun. brunch and live entertainment. 201 Park Centre Drive, Wadsworth, 330-3343663 $$$$ B, L, D, A, T Corkscrew Saloon Specializes in fresh seafood, steaks and chops, prepared by executive chef Ryan Marino. Live entertainment Wed. nights. 811 W. Liberty, Medina, 330-725-0220 $$$$ L, D, A, T Craft Social Bar A large variety of craft beer, cocktails, wines and whiskeys that accompany upscale bar food. Watermark Building, 1846 Front St., Suite G, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-8052826 $$$ D, A, T, V Crave Creative comfort foods, slightly eccentric with bold tastes served up in a sensational setting. 156 S. Main St., Akron, 330-253-1234 $$ L, D, A, T, V Crave Cantina Latin fare meets global tacos at this modern, artistic eatery from the owner of Crave in downtown Akron. Pair your eclectic taco choices with a rum flight of your choice. 2097 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-940-2000 $$$$ L, D, A, T The Crush House at Gervasi Vineyard A modern industrial building that houses a state-of-the-art winery facility, wine bar and eatery. Perfect for a fun lunch, casual dinner or late snack. 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330497-1000, ext. 5 $$ L, D, A D’Agnese’s at White Pond Akron Contemporary Italian food served in a classy yet casual setting. Live entertainment. Full service catering. 566 White Pond Drive, Akron, 234678-3612 $$$ L, D, A, T Darby’s on Fifty-Nine Rustic dining with an assortment of dishes, including crispy calamari and filet mignon sliders, complemented by craft beer. 2764 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330922-7540 $$$ L, D, A, T D.B.A., Dante Boccuzzi Akron Modern American food in a rock ‘n’ roll palace setting. Several menu items can be ordered in varied portion sizes, based on your appetite. Vegetarian and vegan options available. Order a drink and relax on the restaurant’s spacious patio. 21 Furnace St., Akron, 330-375-5050 $$$$ D, A, T, V Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970. Specializes in family-style shish kebabs. 204 12th St. NW, Canton, 330-456-1766 $$$$ L, D, A DeVitis Italian Market Has used traditional recipes to bring fresh Italian food to the Akron area for the last 40 years. Offers six varieties of pasta sauce, including house-made regular, hot and Sicilian. The housemade Italian sausage is a longtime favorite, and a gourmet deli case is fully stocked with a selection of entrees that are ready to heat and eat. 560 E. Tallmadge Ave., Akron, 330-535-2626 $$ L, D, T 32

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

Diamond Deli A local favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups. 378 S. Main St., Akron, 330-762-5877 $ B, L, A, D (Saturdays only), T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, 1950s-style decor. All steaks are hand-cut, and seafood is flown in fresh. 77 W. Market St., Akron, 330-253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A, No credit cards Divine Food Spirits Wine Casual and upscale American fare, a scratch kitchen and a wide drink selection. 2752 Hudson Drive, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-334-4400 $$$$ D, A, T Dominic’s Italian Restaurant Since 1987, Dominic Carrino has been using the finest products available for his pizzas, as well as burgers, paninis and other lunch and dinner options. Carrino is also the owner of JoJo’s Sports Bar, located directly behind the Italian restaurant. 221 S. Jefferson St., Medina, 330-725-8424 $$ L, D, T, P Dontino’s Fine Italian Cuisine Homestyle Italian cuisine, popular community meeting place. 555 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-928-9530 $$ L, D, A, T Downtown 140 New American cuisine using as few ingredients as possible to make an impact and keep clean flavors on the menu at this finedining establishment. 140 N. Main St., Hudson, 330-655-2940 $$$$ L, D, A Driftwood Modern American Bistro Upscale casual dining featuring multiaward-winning chili, handmade pasta and more crafted in an open kitchen. Save room for made-fromscratch desserts. Inside Embassy Suites by Hilton Akron Canton Airport, 7883 Freedom Ave. NW, North Canton, 330-305-0500 $$$ D Edgar’s Restaurant Serves a variety of entrees, such as chargrilled grouper, along with homemade soups, salads and starters. 530 Nome Ave. at Good Park Golf Course, Akron, 330-8693000 $$$ D, A, T Erie Street Kitchen The chef-driven food counter inside the historic Venice Cafe in downtown Kent serves up authentic Southern comfort food with a twist, including a Nashville hot chicken banh mi and chevre goat cheese balls. 163 Erie St., Kent, 330593-5928 $$$ D, A, W, T The Eye Opener Diner-style menu features jams and jellies from Crooked River Herb Farm. Upscale decor includes photos of historic Akron. 1688 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-1114 $$ B, L, D, T Farmer’s Table With a full from-scratch menu, fresh food comes from the farm to your table. Choose from small plate favorites like charcuterie, or if you’re feeling hungrier, try the buttermilk chicken dinner or applewood smoked beef brisket prepared out on the smoker. 320 S. Court St., Suite 100, Medina, 330-9522079 $$$$ L, D, T, A, P

Fat Head’s Brewery A brewpub with wellknown beers, sandwiches as big as your head and hearty appetizers like fried pickles, pepper jack bites and big barbecue wings. 3885 Everhard Road NW, Canton, 330-244-8601 $$$ L, D, W, A, T Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar Aged beef, chops, fresh seafood, salad and more than 100 wines by the glass. 4000 Medina Road, Akron, 330-670-5200 $$$$ D, A, T FlipSide Gourmet, Ohio-raised beef burgers with chef-crafted condiments, toppings and sides; free-range organic chicken breast sandwiches; and market fresh salads. Craft beer on tap. 49 Village Way, Hudson, 330-655-3547 $$ L, D, A, T Foundry Social Have some nostalgic fun with games like duckpin bowling or electric go-karts while enjoying craft cocktails, elevated pub sandwiches and share plates. 333 Foundry St., Medina, 330-333-9000 $$ L, D, A Fred’s Diner Well-known North Hill stop for breakfast and lunch. 930 Home Ave., Akron, 330-535-3733 $ B, L, T Fronimo’s Downtown Located within the Canton Arts District, it prides itself on serving creative food. The menu features small plates such as lettuce wraps or tempura cauliflower, salads, sandwiches and entrees. 315 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 234-6408665 $$ D, A The Galaxy Restaurant Diverse selection of dishes in a creative building. Fantastic desserts. 201 Park Center Drive, Wadsworth, 330-334-3663 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Garretts Mill Diner Breakfast items, sandwiches, soup and house-made ice cream. 4226 Hudson Drive, Stow, 330-926-1344 $$ B, L, T Gasoline Alley Eclectic menu featuring pizza, sandwiches and sauerkraut balls. 870 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-2670 $$$ L, D, A, T George’s Lounge Handcrafted food made from fresh ingredients and housemade sauces. Known for substantial gourmet burgers, or you can create your own. Menu also includes handscooped milkshakes along with unique flavors like maple cream, creamy mocha and Dutch apple pie. 229 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 330452-0029 $$ B, L, D, T, A Greatness Cafe Healthy and delicious options — smoothies, paninis, salads with house-made dressings and juices all paired with positive affirmations and a welcoming atmosphere — in the Massillon Museum’s lobby, open Tuesday through Sunday. 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. $$ B, L, T, W Green Diamond Grille & Pub Upscale dining without upscale pricing. Specializes in steaks, chops, baby back ribs and seafood. 125 Second St. NW, Barberton, 330-745-1900 $$$ L, D, A, T

Guiseppe’s Pizza Family-owned pizzeria known for its Sicilian-style square pizza. 14 E. Caston Road, Akron, 330644-8842 $$ L, D, T H2 Huth & Harris Wine Merchants With a selection of over 200 wines, this Medina-based winery serves up a sizable selection in a rustic, cellarlike atmosphere. Also offers large selection of craft beers, ciders, kombucha, meads and a large selection of tapas dishes. 221 S. Court St., Medina, 330-805-3212; 427 Tuscarawas St. E, Canton: 330-8154959 $$$ L, D, A, T Hamad’s on Main A local family-owned eatery that serves healthy breakfast and lunch that is made daily from scratch. Features a variety of unique soups, salads, sandwiches and wraps. 1826 E. Market St., Akron, 330733-8381 $$ L, T Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery Serving homestyle meals since 1966, we are known for our pressure fried chicken, fresh mashed potatoes, house-made salad dressings, 21 varieties of pies and more. Carryout and curbside pickup. 1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330-877-9353 $$$ L, D, T, W Henry Wahner’s Restaurant An old favorite across from Kent State University. Complete German menu with beers served in ice-cold steins. 1609 E. Main St., Kent, 330-678-4055 $$$$ D, A, T, No credit cards Hibachi Japan Steak House Japanese hibachi-style cooking, great steak and sushi. 1803 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-3333 $$$ L, D, A, T HiHO Brewing Co. Former educators and co-owners Ali and Jon Hovan plate up fresh pizza with house-made dough and sauce along with myriad draft beers brewed in house. 1707 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 234-3347564 $$$ L, D, A Hudson’s Restaurant Neighborhood restaurant and bar serving fresh, chef-driven dishes. Family-friendly atmosphere. 80 N. Main St., Hudson, 330-650-1955 $$$ B, L, D, A, T The Howlin Bird Features a menu full of chicken comfort food entrees as well as an apple spinach salmon salad and house burger. Brunch is served on weekends. 123 S. Main St., North Canton, 234-714-9000 $$$ B, L, D, T, A, P Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse New Yorkstyle upscale steakhouse. 4073 Medina Road, Akron, 330-670-6303 $$$$ D, A, T, V Ido Bar & Grill Home of the beloved Ido Burger. An Akron tradition since World War II. 1537 S. Main St., Akron, 330-773-1724 $$$ L, D, A, T

Go to akronlife.com to view more area restaurants & events.

GOOD EATS

The Jetty River Bar and Grill Located on the north end of the Sheraton Suites, it is a posh place to have dinner with a view. 1989 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-920-7544 $$$ L, D, T, A, P Jilly’s Music Room All gluten-free menu of creative American tapas in a sophisticated setting. Live music, concerts and events Wed. through Sat. 111 N. Main St., Akron, 330576-3757 $$, D, A, T, W Kasai Japanese Restaurant Sushi, hibachi, noodles, don buri, agamono and more. 295 Weatherstone Drive, Wadsworth, 330-334-7141; 3875 Massillon Road, Suite 300, Uniontown, 330899-9788 $$$ L, D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Grille Widely recognized as one of Akron’s finest. Emphasis on steak and seafood. 1970 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-2555 $$$$ L, D, A, T, V Ken Stewart’s Lodge Casual, Adirondackstyle atmosphere, eclectic cuisine. 1911 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-6668881 $$$$ D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Tre Belle Italian atmosphere and authentic cuisine. 1911 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-9990 $$$ D, A, V, T Kingfish A posh yet sleek interior features the freshest seafood of North Coast. Dress is business casual. Reservations recommended. 115 Montrose West Ave., Copley. 330-777-2005 $$$$ D, A Kosar’s Wood-Fired Grill Award-winning steakhouse offering aged steaks, fresh chops and expertly prepared seafood. At the MGM Northfield Park casino. 21 and over only. 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield, 330-9087602 $$$$ D, A

LagerHeads BBQ Smokehouse and Brewing Co . Try the ribs, smoked wings and beer cheese soup, made with Barnburner lager. 2832 Abbeyville Road, Medina, 330725-1947 $$$ L, D, A, T Lager & Vine Gastropub and Wine Bar Great service, scratch food and a bar that has offered a comfortable atmosphere since 2012. 30 W. Streetsboro St., Hudson, 330-650-1717 $$$ L, D, T, A, P Lanning’s Restaurant Elegant dining atmosphere with a beautiful view. More than 150 types of wine. 826 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-1159, 330-8642553 $$$$ D, A, T, V Laziza High-end Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare, plus steak and seafood dishes and a full bar. Acorn Alley, 195 E. Erie St., Kent, 330-677-7000 $$$ L, D, A, T Leo’s Italian Social Nosh on comfort food Italian favorites with a chefdriven twist. 2251 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-400-4427 $$$$ B, L, D, T, A, P The Lockview Traditional American favorites. Fresh menu with spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. 207 S. Main St., Akron, 330252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T Lucca Downtown Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Tuscan Italian-inspired menu. Now managed by Tony Ly, who also owns Basil Asian Bistro. Call for reservations. 228 Fourth St. NW, Canton, 330-456-2534. $$$$ L, D, A, T Lucia’s Steakhouse Fresh seafood, signature garlic butter-topped steaks, Italian favorites and Lucia classics, like house-made lump crab cakes or cubanella and long, hot peppers. 4769 Belpar St. NW, Canton, 330-492-9933 $$$$ D, A

The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory

Family owned and operated since 1875, with chapels in Fairlawn and Cuyahoga Falls. Now celebrating the sixth-generation of family leadership in dedicated service to the city of Akron. Complimentary Live Streaming. Virtual Arrangements. Digital Tribute Wall and Guestbook

Fairlawn • Cuyahoga Falls • 330-867-4141 • www.billowfuneralhomes.com JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

GOOD EATS UNTAPPED by Aaron Fowler

Town Branch Bourbonola Lexington, Kentucky pack four-

$13.9

Thanks to the rise of canned cocktails over the last few years, breweries and distilleries alike have created some exceptional spirit-based options for the masses. Arguably one of the best on the market from bourbon masters Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co., Town Branch Bourbonola joins local shelves this month. Lexington Brewing dates way back to 1794. In 1922, the brewery was involved in one of Kentucky’s largest Prohibition seizures of higher alcohol barrels of beer which was on its way to a local soda stand. In 1999, Lexington Brewing made its return to the public, and over the last two decades, it has become one of the most

award-winning and renowned makers of barrel-aged beers in the industry. It is also the only brewery on the world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Town Branch Bourbonola is a smooth Prohibition-style bourbon and cherry cola-based beverage at 12 percent alcohol by volume. Town Branch, a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, was crafted by Town Branch Distillery and is produced by Lexington Brewing. With a 2012 opening, Town Branch Distillery is the first distillery built in Lexington in the last century. Bourbonola takes Town Branch Kentucky straight bourbon and blends it with a proprietary cherry and vanilla cola as well as other natural ingredients to create an incredible drink that is distinguishably delicious.

Town Branch Bourbonola is available in four-pack cans at select Acme Fresh Market, Buehler’s Fresh Foods, Fishers Foods, Heinen’s and Giant Eagle locations, as well as craft beer stops such as Mustard Seed

Market & Cafe, 101 Bottles of Beer on the Wall and Winking Lizard locations.

[ Aaron Fowler is the key account manager at Cavalier Distributing. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com]. Luigi’s Restaurant An Akron icon. Open late. Serves superb Italian cuisine, salads and award-winning pizza. Voted best pizza and best Italian restaurant by Akron Life readers. 105 N. Main St., Akron, 330-253-2999 $$ L, D, A, T, No credit cards Magic City’s Remarkable Diner Chef-driven menu with surprising twists on diner classics, like the smoked salmon and Brie omelet. 451 Fairview Ave., Barberton, 330-983-9787 $$ B, L, T Maize Valley Winery & Craft Brewery Sample wine by bottle or glass, as well as craft beer. Taste 100-plus types of cheeses. Appetizers and sandwiches. 6193 Edison St. NE, Hartville, 330-877-8344 $$ L, D, A, T 34

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

Meet Me At Irene’s House favorites include chili, omelets and daily specials. 264 Kent Ave. NE, Hartville, 330-877-6477 $ B, L, T Menches Bros. Restaurant Inventors of the hamburger and ice cream cone. In Akron since 1901. 4887 Tuscawaras St. W, Canton, 234-410-3444; 3700 Massillon Road, Green, 330-896-2288; 235 Lincoln Way W, Massillon, 330832-6200 $$ B, L, D, A, T The Merchant Tavern With Owner Anthony Piscazzi’s family history running Akron’s beloved Wine Merchant restaurant, this new restaurant already has a great start. Retail wines available. 1824 Merriman Road, Akron, 330-865-9510 $$$ L, D, A, T

Michael’s AM Casual, family-style dining. Full breakfast and lunch menu featuring daily specials. 1562 Akron Peninsula Road, Akron, 330-929-3447 $$ B, L, T, No credit cards Missing Falls Brewery Offering sixteen craft beers and a spacious taproom in a turn of the century piece of Americana. Oh, did we mention artisan pizza too? 540 S. Main St., Suite 112, Akron, 234-231-1000 $$ A Moe’s Restaurant Hip, intimate atmosphere featuring a diverse chalkboard menu that changes monthly. Martinis, cocktails and extensive selection of wines by the glass. 2385 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-928-6600 $$$$ L, D, A, T

Ms. Julie’s Kitchen Opened by Akron native and author of three vegan cookbooks. Specialties include salads, whole grain-foods and spelt flour waffles. 1809 S. Main St., Akron, 330-819-3834 $ B, L, D, T Mustard Seed Market & Cafe Mezzanine overlooking the Highland Square natural foods market. Menu reflects same strict standards as the market, with naturally raised meats, free-range poultry and foods free from artificial flavors, colorings and preservatives. Live music on weekends. Sun. brunch. 3885 W. Market St., Montrose, 330-666-7333; 867 W. Market St., Akron, 330-4347333 $$$ L, D, T

GOOD EATS Niko’s Sandwich Board Cafe Menu of fresh salads, small-batch soups and handcrafted sandwiches, including several veggie, vegan and gluten-free selections. 1947 W. Market St., Suite 104, Akron, 330-794-5444 $$ L, D, T 91 Wood Fired Oven Upscale casual West Coast atmosphere. Pizza and pasta are specialties. Patio dining. 1983 Easton St. NW in Washington Square Plaza, North Canton, 330-498-9191; 5570 Fulton Drive NW, Canton, 330497-9111 $$$ D, A, T North End Choose from over 50 fine beers or over 1,000 options of global wine selections along with light appetizers and upscale entrees like rainbow trout and flank steak. 7542 Darrow Road, Hudson, 330-342-1400 $$$$ D, T, A Oak and Embers Tavern Southern-style barbecue brisket, pork, ribs and chicken with signature drinks including the Devil’s Grandma and the Revolver. 7774 Darrow Road, Hudson, 234-602-1056 $$$ L, D, W, A, T 111 Bistro This eatery features starters, soups and salads, sandwiches and entrees, as well as an extensive wine, craft beer and cocktail list. Weekend brunch available. 2736 Medina Road, Medina, 330-952-1122 $$$$ D, A, T One Red Door Decadent menu featuring gourmet pizzas, share plates such as bacon-wrapped roasted dates and burgers. 49 Village Way, Hudson, 330342-3667 $$$$ L, D, A Papa Bear’s Authentic, house-made Italian food. 4990 Dressler Road NW, Canton, 330-493-0090 $$$ L, D, A, T Papa Gyros Greek Grill Authentic Greek fare, wine and beer. 3939 Massillon Road, Green, 330-899-0707; 4760 Everhard Road, Canton, 330-4971100; 320 W. State St., Alliance, 330823-7773; 2045 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 330-456-9000; 1 N. Hawkins Ave., Akron, 330-247-2475 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s Extensive wine list, fine Italian fare, seafood and steaks. 1561 Akron Peninsula Road, Akron, 330-923-7999 $$$ L, D, A, T Parasson’s Good pasta. Great family dining. 959 E. Waterloo Road, Akron, 330-724-9375; 3983 Darrow Road, Stow, 330-688-3650; 364 Wooster Road N, Barberton, 330-753-2264 $$ L, D, A, T Poke Fresh Create your own poke bowl or choose from Poke’s signature bowls. 2022 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-217-1017 $$ L, D, T Primo’s Deli An Akron mainstay since 1979. Try their famous corned beef sandwich or spicy Italian sub, and finish with a slice of house-made carrot cake. 1707 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, 330-745-9056 $$ L, D, A, T The Ramp Restaurant Unique entrees include seafood pasta and French pork chop. Dine on the back deck for a waterfront view of Portage Lakes. 3719 S. Main St., Akron, 234-678-6370 $$$$ L, D, A, T

Ray’s Place Great burgers, hearty dinners and the area’s largest selection of foreign and domestic beer in the bottle and on draft. 135 Franklin Ave., Kent, 330-673-2233; 25 Ghent Road, Fairlawn, 330-835-2233 $$ L, D, A, T Rice Paper Thai Cuisine Fine Thai cuisine that features vegetarian options and more. 3867 Medina Road, Fairlawn, 234-466-0499 $$$ L, D, T The River Merchant Kent’s riverfront restaurant offers guests a beautiful dining experience with a chefinspired menu, a wood-fired oven and a wine and beer market. 911 N. Mantua St., Kent, 330-968-6376 $$$$ B, L, D, T, A, P Rosewood Grill Seasonally inspired. Fresh appeal of a local farmers market. 36 E. Streetsboro St., Hudson, 330-6562100 $$$$ L Fri/Sat only, D, A, T Russo’s Unique cuisine featuring Cajun and Italian influences. Fine dining atmosphere. 4895 State Road, Peninsula, 330-923-2665 $$$$ L, D, A, T Saffron Patch Fine Indian cuisine including tandoori chicken, gingerseasoned yellow lentils and garlic naan. 1238 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-836-7777 $$$ L, D, A, T Sarah’s Vineyard Sample high-quality wines, appetizers and desserts in the tasting room, on the deck or in the butterfly garden. 1204 W. Steels Corners Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330929-8057 $$ L, D, A, T Serenite Restaurant Fine French dining includes oysters, escargot, duck confit and smoked salmon. Socially conscious mission with a staff made up of people in recovery from addiction. 538 W. Liberty St., Medina, 330-952-2611 $$$ L, D, A, T Shale Brewing Co. An extensive selection of alcoholic beverages. Also has a location in Oakwood and a coffeehouse in Canton that showcases craft coffee. 7253 Whipple Ave. NW, North Canton, 330-776-8812 $$ L, D, T, A Shawarma Bros. Get a taste of authentic shawarma lamb, chicken or beef in a rice bowl or on pita bread and falafel, then finish off your meal with baklava at this affordable takeout restaurant. 1808 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-334-3996 $$ L, D, T Skyway Drive-In Restaurant A West Akron tradition. Drive-in burgers, fast fare. 2781 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330836-2806; 951 E. Turkeyfoot Road, Green, 330-896-9350 $ L, D, T Social at Stone House Welcoming guests with craft cocktails and a global menu in a pre-Civil War mansion. Be sure to order an artfully garnished cocktail like the JD Manhattan or gimlet. 824 Lincoln Way E, Massillon, 330-809-0461 $$$ L, D, T, A, P Sushi Katsu Award-winning sushi spot in the Merriman Valley. 1446 N. Portage Path, Akron, 330-867-2334 $$$ L, D, A, T

Swensons Drive-In Voted best burger in Akron Life’s Best of the City. Signature burger is the Galley Boy. 658 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-928-8515; 40 S. Hawkins Ave., Akron, 330-864-8416; 4466 Kent Road, Stow, 330-678-7775; 40 Brookmont Road, Montrose, 330665-1858; 5815 Wales Ave., Jackson Township, 330-833-5454; 1558 N. Main St., North Canton, 330-499-9494 $ L, D, T Table Six Kitchen & Bar Innovative and shareable dishes made from scratch in a gastropub where the drinks are also held to the same high standard. Road 6113 Whipple Ave NW, North Canton, 330-305-1666 $$$ L, D, W, A, T Thirsty Dog Brewing Co. Come and enjoy a cold one in their tasting room. 529 Grant Street, Akron,330-252-2739 $$ A Thyme2 Pub & Fine Dining Contemporary cuisine with worldly influences, served in an upscale, modern setting. 113 W. Smith Road, Medina, 330-7644114 $$$$ L, D, A, T Timber Lodge Steaks are hand-selected from the finest USDA Prime and Choice aged beef. Seafood is flown in daily to assure the peak of flavor and freshness. Prime rib is slow roasted rotisserie-style and hand-carved to your taste. Famous for its No. 1 giant lobster tail. 2809 Pearl Road, Medina, 330-725-6288 $$$ D, A, T Totally Cooked To-Go Comfort foods, soups, made-to-order sandwiches and salads, and desserts. Menu changes weekly. 388 S. Main St., Akron, 330-294-1102 $$ B, L, D, T Town Tavern A finer take on bar food in an upbeat atmosphere that sets the tone for a fun night or weekend brunch. 3900 Medina Road Unit J, Akron, 330-666-1191; 1840 Town Park Blvd., Uniontown, 330-896-4433, $$$ B, L, D, T, A Trecaso’s Mary Coyle Strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s best red sauce. Highland Square spot known for several ice cream options. 780 W. Market St., Akron, 330-253-1511 $$ L, D, T Twiisted Sushi and traditional Japanese food, with gourmet burgers and steaks, salads, appetizers, desserts and a full bar. 985 Boardman Alley, Medina, 330-661-0606 $$$ D, A, T Twisted Citrus The daytime eatery offers breakfast and lunch dishes with a twist. It puts unique spins on classics like French toast, with its Maui Waui French toast featuring a pina colada compote or the breakfast nachos with chorizo, black beans, nacho cheese, pico de gallo and avocado. 1649 N. Main St., North Canton, 330305-9680 $$ B, L The Twisted Olive Casual classic ItalianAmerican fare grilled or baked wood-fire ovens. Indoor and outdoor seating. 5430 Massillon Road, Green, 330-899-0550 $$$ L, D, A, T

Vaccaro’s Trattoria Traditional Italian cuisine with a twist on nouveau. Famous since 1957. An Italian and Akron classic. 1000 Ghent Road, Akron, 330-666-6158 $$$ L, D, A, T Valley Cafe Owned by a five-star gourmet chef. Features friendly service, dishes made from scratch and famous cabbage soup. 1212 Weathervane Lane, Akron, 330-8650101; 101 High St., Wadsworth, 330331-7555 $ B, L, D (Wadsworth only), T Vasili’s Greek Cuisine A welcome addition to Akron’s restaurant scene, Vasili’s provides big flavors and huge portions at a reasonable price with excellent customer service. The moussaka is excellent, and the baklava is decadent. 1702 Merriman Road, Akron, 330-864-0722 $$ L, D, T Vinifera Wine-to-Whiskey Extensive beverage list with an enomatic wine dispenser system of more than 60 wine selections, more than 80 whiskey and bourbon options and food. 3236 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 234-571-0233 $$$ D, A, T Waterloo Restaurant Eclectic menu. Famous for the Waterloo Big Apple and French onion soup. 423 E. Waterloo Road, Akron, 330-773-5158 $$ B, L, D, T The West Side Bakery Specialties include cakes, pastries and cookies. Breakfast items include scones, muffins and yogurt parfaits. All sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups are made from scratch. 2303 W. Market St., Akron, 330-836-4101 $ B, L, T The Wine Mill Open daily for wine, craft beer, and bites made from fresh, local ingredients. The rustic Wine Mill serves salads, sliders and cheeseboards, along with Mason jar desserts. The Wine Mill is available for weddings and private events. 4964 Akron Cleveland Road, Peninsula, 234-571-2594 $$$ L, D, A, V Wise Guys Lounge & Grill Located in the former Nick Anthe Restaurant, this spot, owned by Tom Procaccio, features steaks, seafood and pasta dishes. 1008 N. Main St., Akron, 330922-3006 $$$$ L, D, A, T Wolf Creek Tavern Housed in the former Loyal Oak Tavern, this restaurant serves craft beer, wine, salads, wraps, burgers, pasta, steaks and house-made pie. Kids menu. 3044 Wadsworth Road, Norton, 234-5714531 $$$$ L, D, A, T Please send any changes or corrections to kpetryszyn@ bakermediagroup.com.

Go to akronlife.com to view more area restaurants & events.

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

BRIDAL GUIDE

by Kelly Petryszyn, Alexandra Sobczak and Nathalia Teixeira

meant to be

COUPLES BRING THEIR UNIQUE VISIONS TO LIFE.

Personality shines in these dream weddings. From matching yellow hair to a four-wheeler ride up the aisle, these weddings exude individuality.

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

BRIDAL GUIDE

Katie + Owen Gsellman photographer: Angella O’Neil Angella James Photography photosbyajp.com

Owen Gsellman and Katie Ferguson went on an ordinary walk through the woods on Owen’s Medina farm in November 2021. They sat on a porch swing to watch a beautiful sunset. Then Owen led Katie through a tunnel of lights to a clearing in the woods with s’mores, hot chocolate, balloons and string-lit trees. Amid that stunning display that Owen set up over a week, he proposed. “We had our friends take pictures. We had a bonfire, sat there and talked for a little bit,” says Owen. “We added plans to go have parties with her family and my family after because she wanted to tell everybody right away.” Katie and Owen met at Grace Church in Bath around 2018 when they were both 16. They went on a mission trip to Haiti, and Katie

pursued Owen. Her initiative paid off, and the two started dating in 2020 and fell in love. The couple, who live in Akron, got married at the Valley View area of Cascade Valley Metro Park in Akron July 2, 2022, and celebrated at a reception with 150 guests at the newly renovated Himelright Lodge.

Divine Presence: One big piece of decor we had was a massive wooden cross that my dad and Owen built together. We had that at the altar. It was 12 feet tall. It was really cool. They worked really hard on it. That was my favorite thing.

Dancing Queen: I had some of my friends perform a contemporary dance piece in the ceremony. I grew up a From The Bride dancer, and dance was really important to me. I had one Vision Realized: My dress of my best friends chowas an A-line cut, and it was reograph a piece, and they ivory with floral lace. I had a performed it. The artist was pretty veil that matched the Matthew Mole and the song dress that was really long. I was called “The Wedding wore pearls. … The colors Song.” … [Owen and I] did of the wedding were terraa little bit of a dance [to cotta orange and sage green. “Ulysses”], but my dog ended The flowers had a little bit up getting [on the dance of pink in them, green and floor]. I also did a fatherorange. I really like the whole and-daughter dance with atmosphere together — my dad. I choreographed everything worked really well. a really funny, fun dance Everything was perfect. to … [“About Damn Time”

by] Lizzo. I choreographed a dance with all my bridesmaids to [“Crazy in Love” by] Beyonce. Breakfast All Day: We did something a little bit unconventional. We had breakfast foods at our wedding. We had waffles, French toast and bacon. I love breakfast food.

From The Groom Natural Connection: What really set us over the edge was the barn [at Valley View], the quaintness and the beauty of the nature around there. Joy Found: I love how lighthearted and fun the wedding was. It didn’t feel stressful. Everybody was just really happy. NT

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

BRIDAL GUIDE

Macey + Tommy Monnot photographer: Kait Scarff Kait and Hank Photography kaitandhank.com

Tommy Monnot is laid-back, while Macey Harder likes things structured, but when they met in November 2018 through mutual friends, opposites attracted. “He’s more lackadaisical and go with the flow than I am,” Macey says. “He’s starting to bring some of that out in me, which is good.” The couple visited their favorite winery, Ugly Bunny Winery in Loudonville, Oct. 9, 2021, and unexpectedly to Macey, both of their families showed up. It turns out Tommy invited them, and he got down on one knee to propose. “I was caught completely off guard,” she says. “I was full of all different kinds of emotions — excited, shocked, extremely surprised.” Macey knew she wanted to marry Tommy, and she said yes. As Tommy and Macey complete each other in their personalities, their wedding reflected both of their styles. The couple, who live on a Louisville farm, got married at Pine View Acres in Massillon June 11, 2022.

From The Bride Two Become One: He’s more rustic. I’m rustic too, but [I]

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

put my spin on it, to make sure it looks very elegant, a lot of white and greenery. … The centerpieces, we had wooden slabs, but then we had beautiful flower arrangements on the tables and candles to make it more of an elegant feel. Yeehaw: The bridesmaids wore cowgirl boots, and the groomsmen wore cowboy boots. Tommy and I did it as wedding gifts. He bought me a very nice pair of cowgirl boots, and then I bought him a pair of cowboy boots. Bespoke Design: There was a vintage [ring] that I loved. Tommy put his spin on it, along with the one that I liked, when designing it. It’s a very

unique style. It’s huge and beautiful. It’s a little part of both of us, what we wanted. Spiritual Link: I had my great-grandma’s Bible. The outside was lace from her mother’s wedding dress. My great-grandma carried it to her wedding, my grandma carried it to her wedding, so did my mom and my sister. That was very special.

From The Groom Barn Raising: We were looking around for arches, and we moved into a house where there was an old barn that had a bunch of [over 100-year-old] wood. I told

her, Let’s make one out of the old barn wood. So Emotional: I saw Macey and her dad walking down the aisle. She came out of the doors. I saw her and I saw him crying, and I started pouring tears. I knew I was going to cry, but seeing her dad crying, my dad crying like that, didn’t help the cause. She was glowing. Well Traveled: I have a lot of friends and family from out of town and state. Seeing their faces shows how much they care and how much they mean to me and I mean to them — I really appreciated that. NT

BRIDAL GUIDE

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

BRIDAL GUIDE

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

BRIDAL GUIDE

Elizabeth + Zach Lohr photographer: Marissa Camino Marissa Camino Photography marissacaminophotography.com

Elizabeth Kisner is a goA month after she booked getter. Before her boyfriend, the venue, Zach bought her a Zach Lohr, proposed or even cushion-cut diamond, and he had a ring, she signed a conproposed in February 2022. tract for a North Lawrence They went sledding at her venue, White Rose Barn, in parents’ Lodi farmhouse, and October 2021 and set a Sept. a jittery Zach got on one knee 3, 2022, wedding date after at the bottom of the hill as the hearing about a last-minute sun was setting. cancellation and taking it as a sign that it was meant to be. “Right after that, he got a bloody nose. He was so “I knew we were going to get nervous,” she says. “It was married,” she says. “It was in super memorable.” the middle of a field. … The The now Litchfield residents barn was so white. … I could celebrated their rural roots picture my wedding there.” in a rustic elegant ceremony The two met as teenagers in and reception at White Rose 2018 through friends after Barn, complete with a fourgraduating from Brunswick wheeler and Mrs.-labeled High School, and both quickly sneakers for the bride. knew they had found the one. After only three months of dat- From the Bride ing, Elizabeth and Zach began Rev Up: We’re pretty outshopping for rings but waited doorsy people. We zip to get married until they were around on our four-wheelin their 20s and had jobs as ers and ATVs. … I was like, a real estate agent at the time How can I incorporate my and firefighter, respectively.

four-wheeler? It came to me to go down the aisle. … He announced us as husband and wife. My brother drove it up. I got on the front end, Zach got on the back end. We drove out, and it was really awesome. Lead Foot: Forty-five days before we got married, I totaled my car. I had to have reconstructive surgery on my face. … The DJ asked [in the shoe game] who’s a better driver, and I put my shoe on the ground. He lifted his shoe in the air, and everyone started laughing. It was really funny. Spreading Her Wings: Around the venue, my dad put pink butterflies because our song was “Butterfly Kisses” growing up. During our first look, he also had a butterfly in his hand. It was really special. … I was thinking like, I’m getting married. I’m still your

daughter but I’m not gonna live at home anymore. … We bawled our eyes out.

From the Groom Here Comes the Bride: We had a song playing, and when it hits the chorus, I turned around. It was just breathtaking. She’s so beautiful I couldn’t help but break into tears of joy. Passing the Torch: When her dad gave his speech, he was explaining how he had to be the protector and provider of her. At the end, he said it’s hard for him because he has to relinquish that duty to me. That was hard for me to hold back tears. KP JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

BRIDAL GUIDE

Allyssa + Bret Mucha photographer: Jamilyn Phillips at Bombshell Boudoir Studio bombshellboudoirstudio.com

Allyssa Ball met Bret Mucha in 2012 through their shared interest in makeup — he does special effects makeup, and she does bridal and boudoir makeup. They met at Hot Heads salon, where Allyssa worked at the time. Bret knew it was meant to be. “She had bright blue hair at the time. As soon as I saw her, there was an energy that I just felt,” he says. For Allyssa, it was another artistic moment. “I knew when I saw him sing and play the guitar for the first time,” she says, adding that he played “Collide” by Howie Day. Bret popped the question in January 2021 at Otherworld interactive art museum in Columbus. On Oct. 1, 2022, the two tied the knot in an intimate ceremony that included their then-9year-old son, Zaiden, and took place at the arch on Front Street in Cuyahoga Falls, across the street from Allyssa’s makeup studio, Ally J Artistry, where she got ready. They briefly celebrated at the Workz with a small group of loved ones and then at a reception with more close friends and family in the backyard of their Cuyahoga Falls house.

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

From the Bride Color Match: Over the years, we randomly will start matching hair. But then for the wedding, we specifically did matching hair. Yellow is kind of my color and our color at this point. … My best friend … grabbed pieces of decorations from my studio and put it in my hair. … [Bret] has lots of snakes. I did know that I wanted a piece of his character in there, so that’s part of the snake pendant that was in my hair. Art Display: We got our backyard like a little fairy tale setup. … We bought a bunch of different candleholders and glass pieces. And [artist Athena Abood Brown] did her art, with moss and crystals. We had different flower arrangements. It was super witchy and cool.

Perfect Trio: [Our son] only wears like one type of clothing. And he really worked hard to build up the courage to wear an actual suit. So it was cool that he wanted to do that for us. … It was very emotional for him, which made it very emotional for us, because he was very happy. We knew that we wanted him to be a part of the hand wrapping to tie the knot. … It’s been the three of us together for the past almost 10 years.

From the Groom Serenade Me: My buddy, Zak, he’s really into music. … I was like, You gotta play [“Collide”] because it’s important to our story. … He pulled it off. Ironically,

him and another friend had planned to sing that song to us at the reception after the ceremony. … So we got to experience that after as well. Quick Breather: I really enjoyed the little time we had to chill in the speakeasy at the Workz. That was really nice. Everything seems so hectic and so fast. Dapper Dude: Seeing the reveal of [our son] in his little suit and Allyssa coming around the corner for the first reveal was really cool. I got super emotional. I get a little emotional now just talking about it. It was cool seeing him so jazzed about it. AS

BRIDAL GUIDE

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

BRIDAL GUIDE

by Alexandra Sobczak

in harmony LOCAL MUSICIANS ADD AMBIANCE, FUN AND FLAIR TO YOUR WEDDING.

How to decide: Celestial Strings has an expansive repertoire, so Canfora recommends couples picture the mood they want to create. “You have the elegance of the harp with these beautiful

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

Why live music: It can urge guests to find their seats and become “full of emotion and romance,” Canfora says. Plus, it can interact with important moments as they happen. “It’s always dramatic when the music kind of magically seeps into the moment when a couple moves from where they’ve just exchanged their vows to a place where they’re lighting a candle or pouring sand into a vessel,” Canfora says. “It’s not unusual to look out at the audience … and to see tears because it’s so beautiful.”

Alexandre Marr Piano What to expect: Alexandre Marr sometimes plays solo, but often teams up with a violin or cello player. “If they want something that’s a little bit more romantic and orchestral, perhaps duo or trio packages would suit their needs,” Marr says. The Akron resident, Iudiciani Photography co-founder and collaborative pianist at Kent State University has been performing at weddings for over 10 years. His performances provide a special backdrop during the cocktail hour, reception and ceremony including the prelude, entrance of the wedding party, the entrance of the bride, the recessional and the postlude. How to decide: If couples don’t request specific songs, Marr has a blueprint he follows. “I like to keep wedding ceremonies a little bit more classical and then cocktail hours a bit more modern,” he says. When couples do make requests, songs often include “River Flows in You” by Yiruma and “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy. He’s played at weddings of all sizes, both indoors and outdoors, at spots like the Country Club of Hudson and Blue Heron Brewery in Medina. He’s also played for couples of many different ethnicities and religions. “I’ve played all types,” he says, “Indian weddings, Jewish

courtesy of pianist Alexandre Marr

What to expect: With 25-plus years of experience playing at weddings, harp player Roseann “Chic” Canfora, who is also a Kent State University journalism professor and an activist, leads the musical group Celestial Strings. Performing as a solo harpist, duo, trio or quartet with flute, violin and cello players, the Aurora resident provides live music to help set the mood during the prelude, ceremony, cocktail hour or reception of weddings at indoor or outdoor venues like Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens or Gervasi Vineyard. “The presence … brings a level of elegance and sophistication to a wedding,” Canfora says, adding that the more instrumentalists, the fuller the sound.

arpeggios. If you add the flute or the violin, they can play the melody and the harmonies,” she says. “Adding the beautiful bass sounds of the cello grounds the entire quartet.” The group plays selections from classical to modern — popular bride entrance songs are Christina Perri’s “A Thousand Years” and Johann Pachelbel’s Canon in D Major, and other common choices are movie soundtracks and songs by the Beatles.

weddings, Catholic weddings, Christian weddings, nondenominational weddings.” Why live music: Having musicians at your wedding can add an additional visual experience for guests, as they can watch the performance and see how the instrumentalists move with the music, Marr says. It also adds unforgettable elegant and emotional elements. “Sometimes the bride and groom have very specific requests, so they get really emotional when they hear those pieces coming down the aisle,” Marr says, adding that live music is also meaningful to wedding guests. “We get really, really positive feedback about how passionate the music is and how much the attendees connected to it.” AS

Find more info at celestial-strings.com and alexandremarr.com.

courtesy of Roseann “Chic” Canfora of Celestial Strings

Celestial Strings

BRIDAL GUIDE

Greystone With an imposing seven-story stone facade, Greystone remains one of downtown Akron’s most majestic structures. Originally built by the Freemasons in 1917 for their business and social gatherings, the building now offers exceptionally appointed spaces for weddings and special celebrations. Upon entering Greystone’s first-floor lobby, the marble walls and floor immediately convey an unmatched level of elegance and sophistication. Regardless of its location within the building, your event receives the highest level of attention and service from our staff — making it memorable for years to come. A grand staircase or elevator carries your guests to the second floor that features three unique rooms. The barrister’s lounge is anchored by a 20-foot bar and fireplace, with Greystone’s original billiards room accessible through a set of adjacent double French doors. These rooms accommodate more intimate functions from 50 to 80 people. The two-story ballroom comprises the remainder of the second floor. Large windows, a tiered balcony staircase ascending to the third floor above and ornate decor combine to make the ballroom a signature banquet space. Two hundred (200) guests can enjoy fine dining, dancing and entertainment from the ballroom’s main stage. The third floor offers a bird’s-eye view of the ballroom below and also a newly furnished sitting parlor, separate dining in the garden room and a multipurpose suite for use by bridal parties and special guests. greystonehall.org | 330-374-7590 103 S. High St., Akron

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

BRIDAL GUIDE

Glenmoor Country Club & Resort As Northeast Ohio’s premier wedding destination getaway, Glenmoor Country Club & Resort can make your bridal dreams come true. With everything you need in one location, it can be a weekend you and your guests remember forever. The clubhouse boasts two distinctive ballrooms and outdoor spaces. The signature chapel takes your breath away with vaulted ceilings, while the traditional Turnberry Room offers simple elegance. The tranquil grounds are meticulously manicured, making it an amazing outdoor venue perfect for photos.

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Glenmoor is the ultimate destination for a celebratory wedding weekend. Let the castlelike ambiance in its clubhouse be the backdrop for the most important weekend of your life.

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glenmoorcc.com 4191 Glenmoor Road NW, Canton 330-966-3600

BRIDAL GUIDE

More Wedding Music Options

The Agenda, rock cover band, Medina, agendaband.com Andrew Paa, violinist, Akron, andrewpaa. yolasite.com La Flavour, dance band, Massillon, laflavour.com Silver & Strings Trio, flute, cello and piano, North Canton, silverandstringstrio.com The Travelin’ Man Band, oldies cover band, Brunswick, thebash.com/60s-band/ the-travelin-man-band

Hale Farm & Village Planning a special event? Hale Farm & Village offers the flexibility to accommodate budgets and guest lists of all sizes. The historic charm and rustic elegance of Hale Farm & Village’s 90 acres nestled in the Cuyahoga Valley will make your next event historic. Hale

Farm & Village is the perfect setting! We also offer new elopement and micro-wedding packages. Have your perfect day without the expense and hassle of a large wedding. wrhs.org 2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath 330-666-3711, ext. 1712

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

EDUCATION

by Kelly Petryszyn, Alexandra Sobczak and Nathalia Teixeira

Great Resilience

Extra Lesson classes, photos provided by Spring Garden Waldorf School

Schools are confronting obstacles. Through art therapy, a movement class and intervention, students are bouncing back from the pandemic.

SMART MOVES At first, a rhythmic activity in the Extra Lesson developmental movement class at Spring Garden Waldorf School in Copley was difficult for now8-year-old third grader Grace Heller. Each student is tasked with stepping a leg over a rope while touching their shoulder with their opposite hand, continuously crisscrossing to a drumbeat. This helps with bilaterality or bringing interaction between the left and right brain hemispheres. Grace, who has torticollis, which is a 48

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

tightening of the muscles in the neck, eventually mastered it with big results. “Once you get the hang of it, you feel so accomplished,” Grace says. “Her coordination skills have improved tremendously,” says her mom, RyAnn Heller, who adds that it has helped Grace learn to ride a bike. Students take Extra Lesson — a class specific to Waldorf education, which addresses the

whole child — periodically from kindergarten to second grade and then on a by-need basis. It helps students develop physical capacities and coordination, gain skills needed for complex movements including spatial orientation and balance and be able to transition from play-based early education to sitting at a desk and taking in academic instruction. The class has been especially important, as the sedentary nature of the pandemic shutdown affected students’ abilities to pay

attention and follow teachers’ instructions and their gross motor coordination and fine motor skills. “A child who has difficulty with attention, I see a distinct correlation between that and their ability to sit still,” says Diane Miskinis, Extra Lesson education support teacher. “The class allows children to strengthen this balance.” Extra Lesson addresses gaps through playful activities like imitating fish, frog and pony

EDUCATION

movements on the floor to develop motor skills. They also toss bean bags to work on eye tracking, which helps with reading, and left-right brain communication, which helps with math. “Our bodies … it’s a bridge to helping children grasp higher-level learning,” says Miskinis. “Children build those physical capacities and deepen awareness of their body, self-control, patience, stillness.” Often, Miskinis modifies activities, such as one where students walk on a balance beam and raise a Hula-Hoop over their heads and step through it. She might cup their elbows to guide them. Grace’s 6-year-old brother in first grade, Jude Heller, struggled with that exercise, but with Miskinis’ assistance, eventually he felt successful. “She helped me do it,” Jude says, “and find my inner strength.” “It helps my children to learn better … when they’re self-aware of their body,” adds RyAnn. “It’s giving them a sense of self-worth.” KP

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

EXPRESS YOURSELF Julie Billiart School fifth grader Lincoln Rufus came home after an art therapy lesson last year talking about artist Helen Frankenthaler, who often depicts emotions in her paintings. Lincoln told his mom, Karla Rufus, about the artist’s biography. “Mom, I could be [them] one day,” says Lincoln, who has autism and attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder. “There could be kids at my school that learn about me.” All kindergartners through eighth graders at the Akron campus take an art class with social-emotional lessons taught by art therapist Holly Queen, and some participate in individual and small group sessions, including Lincoln. After the pandemic shutdown, Queen noticed several students struggled with returning to a structured school routine and dealt with more behavioral and social challenges, so she used art therapy to help students work on self-regulation. Through collage, drawing, painting and other artistic mediums, she helps students empathize, self-reflect, communicate and improve selfawareness and self-esteem. Activities include using paint drips and splatters to visualize students’ energies and emotions, and making a mixedmedia piece on ice skates to reflect on how ice skaters 50

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

bounce back after mistakes, applying it not just in sports, but to school and home. “We talk about what gives us hope and what things make us happy,” Queen says. “We try to focus on the positive in each other and in ourselves.” From students choosing colors for paintings to observing art therapy until they feel comfortable enough to take part, art therapy prompts students to learn through self-expression while exploring their creativity, and that’s what Lincoln enjoyed. “The excitement of doing something that he loved, creating things that he enjoyed, being in a group with other children and with a loving teacher, that gave Lincoln something to look forward to,” Karla says. “He told me, I feel like I’m in my element, and this is where I’m most happy.” Art therapy helps students with their feelings and mental health. Students can cope with stressful situations by recognizing the difference between an anxious body and a relaxed body through metaphors in 3D or digital images. “Most successful people are resilient people,” Queen says. “Having emotional resilience and improving self-awareness and self-control, that’s naturally going to lead them to be a more successful person in the future.” NT

top left: Art therapist Holly Queen, photos provided by Julie Billiart School

EDUCATION

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

bottom left: Lead intervention specialist Tina Scanlon, top left and right: Sixth grader Joey Towell, photos provided by St. Hilary School

EDUCATION

PATH TO SUCCESS At St. Hilary School in Fairlawn, intervention services don’t always mean pulling kids out of classes for extra help. Sixth grader Joey Towell, who has Down syndrome, stays with his peers in some classes while an intervention specialist helps him. This approach keeps Towell connected to his peers, which has been especially important following remote learning and isolation at the start of the pandemic. Although he also bonds with classmates as an athlete who plays on the basketball, soccer and football teams, class time with peers remains important, and those subjects, including social studies and gym, are some of his favorites, he says. In social studies, he does supplemental worksheets with fewer questions than standard worksheets.

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

“When he feels engaged and involved with the class, because he is doing the work that they’re doing, it’s very important,” says lead intervention specialist Tina Scanlon. He leaves the classroom for reading and math classes to work with an intervention specialist on individual goals like counting money. This happens in a dedicated intervention space that was created during a renovation in summer 2020 for students to attend before, during and after school hours. It provides a distractionfree area for students and the 20-person intervention team, which includes tutors, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and more. Nearly 100 students — about 18 percent of the school’s student body — use services including individual education plans and tutoring.

When Towell is working oneon-one with an intervention specialist, he enjoys it. He gets to visit an unoccupied science lab with a specialist to do hands-on lessons like learning about density by putting candy in water and learning about measurements by measuring the height of a door, which was Towell’s favorite part. He proudly shares that on a recent science quiz, he earned 100 percent.

“He still may be learning the same thing that his peers are learning. We just do it with all types of instruction,” says behavioral specialist Katie Towsley, “so visuals, auditory, tactile, anything that is going to make that information and the content meaningful for him.” “They explain things,” Towell says. “It’s fun.” “He’s happy when he knows he succeeded,” says Scanlon. AS

EDUCATION

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

CULTURAL EXCHANGE Tamula Drumm has taught English as a second language in China, and now, she is teaching Mandarin Chinese for the first year at Our Lady of the Elms school in Akron. Her addition to the school provides not only another world language option to students — they can currently also take French, Spanish or Latin — but also an international exchange student program she helped bring to the school during this pandemic era when cultural awareness is particularly important.

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“It opens doors to learning about other cultures and opens doors for opportunities for them too,” says Drumm, who is one of Akron sculptor Don Drumm’s daughters. Eighth graders can take a foreign language for high school credit so Drumm devised advanced lesson plans for exploratory sixth

and seventh grade classes that emphasized reading, writing, speaking and listening to Chinese and teaching some vocabulary that she would normally teach in an introductory high school course. “I was so impressed with these girls, with what they were able to do,” says Drumm, who has been teaching Chinese for over 13 years, most recently at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, where she grew the program from 16 to 135 students. “I can see some of them really love the challenge of it.” Since the beginning of the school year, Drumm has expanded her lessons all the way down to kindergarten. For younger students, who she teaches once a week, she starts by teaching them “Hello” in Chinese, as well as “What is your name?” and “My name is.” Next, she asks students to name panda

stuffed animals by saying, “His name is” and filling in the blank — some recent name choices: Lavender, Flower and Snowflake. For second through fifth graders, she made booklets that helped them learn how to write Chinese characters. “They have very high visual literacy,” she says. “I was stunned.” Drumm also shares her experiences living in China with students, by telling them stories, playing them Chinese songs and having her husband bring in moon cakes for students to try during Lunar New Year. “It got us learning not only the language but the cultural aspect of Chinese,” says seventh grader Seher Saini, who hopes to continue with Chinese classes throughout the years. “Her personal experience helps us learn and relate to the material.” AS

Chinese language teacher Tamula Drumm, photo provided by Our Lady of the Elms

EDUCATION

EDUCATION LET TERS FROM THE MAIN OFFICE

OUR LADY OF THE ELMS Elms girls become confident leaders, accomplished professionals and advocates for justice and the common good. Prepared to succeed in life, they possess a spiritual, educational, global and experiential foundation shaped at the Elms. FROM ACADEMIC DEAN KEVIN KELLY:

The Elms is the only all-girls, faith-based school for first through 12th grades with a coed preschool and kindergarten in the Diocese of Cleveland. Our mission is to educate girls and young women to live their lives boldly with purpose, confidence, kindness, resilience, justice and faith.

SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL Inspired by St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and rooted in Catholic faith, Seton Catholic School fosters spiritual development, academic excellence, responsibility to self and service to others. FROM PRINCIPAL KAREN ALESTOCK:

Seton Catholic School, which has pre-K through eighth grade, is a community of educators and families committed to the common goal of providing a rich, faith-filled school experience for students.

Ranked as one of the top private schools in Summit County, we are known for our academic excellence, caring atmosphere and strong community spirit. We strive for every girl to become an inquiring lifelong learner, a compassionate and engaged global citizen and a confident and caring leader. Every girl is inspired to reach her full potential.

It was founded by families with a clear vision to create a strong, independent, culturally and spiritually rich home for their children and future students. Seton Catholic School provides a faith-based education in which academic excellence, citizenship and service define the experience for every student. Our comprehensive curriculum engages students in active, personal learning with an emphasis on problem-solving, creativity and discovery that fosters a lifelong love of learning.

By the very nature of our mission, the Elms is an individualized educational experience. Because we endeavor to inspire each girl to reach her full potential, there are as many different versions of that as there are girls in the school. That said, girls who are curious, open-minded and hard-working will thrive at the Elms and in our community.

Immersed in the humanities, arts and sciences, foreign languages, mathematics and environmental education, students are nurtured in a setting of constructive and personalized learning. Innovation and tradition unite with guided responsible use of technology, successfully integrated with time-honored instruction.

SPRING GARDEN WALDORF SCHOOL Waldorf education upholds the principles of freedom in education by offering a developmentally appropriate, experiential and academically rigorous approach integrated with the arts, allowing teachers to generate inner enthusiasm for learning within every child. Students can develop their unique capacities and engage with the world as clear and creative thinkers with compassion, moral strength and courage. FROM DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION AMY HECKY:

Waldorf education offers an innovative and inspiring approach to learning, addressing the whole child — cognitive, social and creative — and meets students’ needs through a challenging and multisensory environment. Our school offers a warm introductory experience in our caregiver-child classes. In our play-based preschool and kindergarten programs, teachers focus on fostering imagination, creativity and pre-academic skills through storytelling and artistic activities. Our elementary school students progress into the challenging and experiential curriculum where testing, grading and homework are minimized. It inspires the artistic, creative and imaginative life of the child while providing academics through hands-on lessons. Middle school students develop a strong foundation for creative, conceptual and abstract thinking through our robust liberal arts curriculum. Experiential learning is still key in these years as we set high standards. People of any race, ancestry, nationality, socioeconomic background, family structure, age, religion, belief system, gender, sexual orientation and appearance are welcome, should feel respected and celebrated and should see themselves reflected in the culture, curriculum and policy. Our school has no tolerance for intolerance, bigotry and oppression. Our community welcomes all.

JANUARY 2023 | akronlife.com

EDUCATION LET TERS FROM THE MAIN OFFICE

ST. HILARY SCHOOL Our mission is to keep Christ at the center of all that we do. In solidarity with our parish and school community, we will inspire our students through inclusive, innovative and challenging academic and spiritual experiences, to be leaders capable of making a positive change in the world. FROM PRINCIPAL JENNIFER WOODMAN:

I am extremely proud of our kindergarten to eighth grade school, and everything we offer. St. Hilary School empowers students, providing them with the needed tools, skills and confidence to become the next generation of career-ready leaders. This is our 62nd year shaping children’s lives, and we continue raising the bar. At St. Hilary, students are immersed in experiential learning with courses and amenities that foster independent critical thinking, global awareness, leadership and character. Students can learn three world languages, perform service, practice public speaking, work with technology and hold leadership roles. Classes and extracurriculars engage and challenge students of all ages and abilities. Our makerspace STEM lab intrigues even the youngest learners, while our career elective courses prepare older students for the future. A two-time Blue Ribbon School and a recipient of the Governor’s Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education and Student Research, our school is a model of excellence in Catholic education for a wide range of students. Differentiated learning is in practice in every classroom, and as a Better Together School in the Diocese of Cleveland, we proudly welcome students with diverse learning needs. The future begins here, and we can’t wait to show you why.

akronlife.com | JANUARY 2023

ST. SEBASTIAN PARISH SCHOOL

ST VINCENT DE PAUL PARISH SCHOOL

Our mission is to be dedicated to Christ and committed to excellence in education. We honor the Catholic traditions of the past, work to develop our talents today and prepare for Christian service in the future.

The mission of St. Vincent de Paul Parish School is to develop young Catholic men and women with creative minds, a sense of understanding for one another and the ability to change the world while keeping Christ in the mind, body and heart.

FROM PRINCIPAL ANTHONY ROHR:

While a primary goal of the school is academic excellence, this exists within the primary framework of the Catholic Church. St. Sebastian educates in mind, body and spirit and strives to create lifelong learners. Whether it is a critical-thinking language arts project or designing roller coasters in math and science, students learn that real-world problems present themselves as a web of interconnected topics. St. Sebastian is not only a school with high achievement in math, reading, language usage and science —all subjects tested — but the students show high growth in all four as well. Various extracurricular activities add to the overall education of each student, promoting further growth and development of social skills, leadership skills, faith values and other talents and abilities. The St. Sebastian Power of the Pen team won many awards last year through the district and regional tournaments for excellence in writing, including the coveted Kent State University Regional Award, and finished in fourth place in the state tournament. Students have also competed in the State Science Fair for the past four years, winning awards at the local, district and state levels. For the fourth year in a row, St. Sebastian was a recipient of the Governor’s Thomas Edison Award for Excellence in STEM Education and Student Research.

FROM PRINCIPAL DIANE SALAMON:

St. Vincent de Paul Parish School is an amazing community that has been educating hearts and minds since 1853. We are dedicated to inspiring a love to learn and empowering students to reach their potential in spiritual growth, academic achievement, creativity and citizenship. We believe children learn best in positive faith-filled environments with guidance from teachers who genuinely care for students’ successes. As a STREAM school in the Diocese of Cleveland, our students receive opportunities that develop their skills to solve real-world problems. We offer a full-day or half-day preschool. Our preschool through eighth grade curriculum includes religion, engineering, Spanish, technology, music, art, health, physical education, math, science, English language arts and social studies. Our students participate in competitions such as Soap Box Derby Gravity Challenge Races, Future City and X-STREAM games. Our eighth-grade students can attend daily algebra one classes at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School. We partner with community groups and businesses to raise awareness for their causes and collaborate on a variety of projects. Blessed by the spiritual and financial support of the parish community, our students learn and use technology with all curricula in air-conditioned classrooms. We would love for you to become part of the St. Vincent de Paul community.

EDUCATION

Private Schools BY THE NUMBERS SCHOOL NAME

Class Size

Teacherto-Student Ratio

Graduation Rate

Tuition

Open House Dates

$6,250-$12,100

Feb. 1, 11 a.m and 7 p.m.

Virtual Open Houses

Our Lady of the Elms

12-18

1:12

100%

(Preschool to 12th Grade)

Seton Catholic School

Pre-K:

1:8

100%

(Financial aid and scholarships available)

$6,395

(Financial aid available)

K-8: