January 2021 Akron Life Magazine

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 1 | JANUARY 2021

WINNERS OF THE 330 FLAVOR AWARDS

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PAGES

JANUARY 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 1

Pages start here

On The Cover

| 18 330 Flavor Awards | photo by Tylar Sutton

[ FEATURES ]

18 330 FLAVOR AWARDS Carryout faves bring comfort food home.

Plus, your picks for The 330’s top restaurants, bars, coffee shops and more.

32 LOVE FINDS A WAY Small pop-up weddings save the day.

Darby’s on Fifty-Nine Salmon Sliders photo by Tylar Sutton

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akronlife.com | JANUARY 2021

N AV I G ATO R When embarking on your life’s financial journey, it is important to have a navigator who is knowledgeable and well equipped for the trip ahead. If you’re like many sojourners, you may need a professional who has the resources to round up the proper team to sustain you throughout each phase of your financial life.

The cornerstone of our philosophy is to serve as your personal guide. We are here to help you define your goals, orchestrate the plan; assemble the required specialists; coordinate arrangements with your legal and accounting team; and attend to every aspect of your plan’s development and ongoing maintenance…no matter where you are in your life’s journey.

Andrew Lamb Financial Advisor

WEALTH MANAGEMENT | 330.836.3805 GLOBAL ACCOUNTING | 330.867.3578 W3FINANCIALGROUP.COM Fee-Based Planning offered through W3 Wealth Advisors, LLC, a State Registered Investment Advisor. Third Party Money Management offered through Valmark Advisers, Inc., a SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Securities offered through Valmark Securities, Inc. Member FINRA, SIPC. W3 Global Accounting provides only tax and accounting.

W3 Financial Group, LLC, W3 Wealth Advisors, LLC, and W3 Global Accounting are separate entities from Valmark Securities, Inc. and Valmark Advisers, Inc.

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UPFRONT

AGENDA

UNTAPPED

Special Order

[ the essential social digest ]

Wooly Pig Farm Brewery

[ DEPARTMENTS ]

08 MAIL BONDING

12 AGENDA [ the essential social digest ] 13 Entertainment listings

09 FROM THE PUBLISHER

+ Calendar of events

Dish Switch

26 GOOD EATS

10 RADAR [ seen + heard ]

[ notable food + drink ] 26 Restaurant listings 28 Untapped:

Wooly Pig Farm Brewery 31 Uncorked: Dry January

11 UPFRONT Special Order

51 PARTING SHOT Tallmadge Schoolhouse

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akronlife.com | JANUARY 2021

Special Sections 32 BRIDAL Find out if a pop-up wedding is right for you.

44 EDUCATION Terrific staffers and letters from the main office

WE CAN’T SHOW YOU any ore of

THIS PAINTING. IT HASN’T BEEN EXHIBITED I N N E AR LY 1 5 Y E A R S .

You can only see it until March 7. When you do, you’ll never forget it.

Dancing in the Light is an original exhibition of outstanding American Impressionist oil and watercolor paintings, capturing the brilliant effects of light and color in everyday scenes. Many of these paintings are rarely exhibited anywhere — because they’re in private collections.

See renowned masters such as Robert Blum, Ralph Curtis, Childe Hassam, Edward Potthast, John Singer Sargent, Alice Schille, and more. All too vivid … too spirited … too important to try to describe.

and

T hi s exhi bi t i on i s presen ted w i th gen erou s suppor t i n par t f rom ...

SEE DOWNTOWN CANTON IN A WHOLE NEW LIGHT! An animated, immersive light show exhibition presented by ArtsinStark and Visit Canton Coming this January – February 2021 • GET ENLIGHTENED AT CANTONLIGHTFESTIVAL.COM

© 2020 Canton Museum of Art

Drifting with the Tide, Venice, 1884,

by Ralph Wormeley Curtis.

This painting is rarely exhibited (but has been seen in Paris, London, Boston, and New York).

PAGES MAIL BONDING

VOLUME 18 | ISSUE 12

Tell us what's on your mind.

DECEMBER 2020

Freeze Frame SHANE WYNN and her family document the country amid a pandemic

COMFORT FOOD FOODBANK RESPONDS TO A SPIKE IN HUNGER MIRA CLE WORKERS DOCTORS & NURSES MAKING A SACRIFICE FOR YOU

The Wynns and Gippins photo by Shane Wynn

SP IRIT LIFTER GUARD MENTAL HEALTH THIS SEASON

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Molly Heideman Zaria Johnson

O R AT T E N D A V I R T U A L E V E N T,

33 0 T I X O F F E R S

JANUARY 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 1

BOTH EASE AND

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T .

YO U R T I CKE T TO LO C A L E V E N T S

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akronlife.com | JANUARY 2021

akronlife is published monthly by Baker Media Group, LLC, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313. Copyright 2021© 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.

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PAGES FROM THE PUBLISHER

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

Dish Switch The pandemic is changing how we eat.

I have never considered myself a great cook. The pandemic and lockdown have really pushed me to the limit of my ability. Pre COVID19, my wife and I were accustomed to dining out multiple times a week — sometimes every night of the week.

We always talked about how we should eat at home more often. It is cheaper and sometimes healthier, and did I mention cheaper? I used to love going out for breakfast and drinking endless cups of coffee, letting others take care of everything.

Then breakfast would extend into dinner with a friend. Before too long, we would miss going grocery shopping, the workweek would start, and we would dine out because we both got home late and didn’t feel like shopping. A few days would lead into a week.

Neither of us particularly like to cook, but we both like to eat. Don’t get me wrong — we don’t mind cooking an occasional meal, but the day-to-day meals are hard. My wife has gotten mad saying, I don’t know what to cook for a vegetarian, and I do not cook meat, so the struggle has continued.

After our baby was born in February and we both started working from home, we began using a delivery meal service that mails a kit for you to make. My grandmother who made everything from scratch is probably laughing about it from the other side, but it really has helped me become a better cook. I do get sick of the meals they send, and we take breaks at times, but overall I have learned to make sauces from scratch and understand the

basics of putting together a homemade meal. I screwed up a lot of the early meals by realizing I had several leftover ingredients that I forgot to add. I have gotten better at that since. There is a repetition to steps in several of the recipes, and I can now make a lot of what they send with ease.

My wife and I have a newfound enjoyment of cooking, but it’s still nice to take a break.

We want to continue to support local restaurants, so we get carryout. Find plenty of restaurants on pg. 18 that reveals the winners of our 330 Flavor Awards.

Something I like about carryout is that there’s no cleanup. A drawback with doing so much home cooking is that I use every pot and pan. So the next service I need to look for is someone to clean up the kitchen after me. I am pretty sure my wife would appreciate that service as well.

[

Publisher Colin Baker is a retired racing driver and gearhead.

]

Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

JANUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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PAGES RADAR

[ by Molly Heideman ] seen + heard

Dual Image Everyone is impacted by the pandemic differently, but we’re all living through history. Akron photographer Autumn Bland’s Portraits of a Pandemic series captures that duality, and now it’s a photo book that juxtaposes Northeast Ohio essential workers in stark black and white with those at home in vivid color. Witness what life is like for celebratory high school graduates, masked restaurant owners, expectant couples, health care workers in full PPE and more. Order at autumnbland.com/store

The Bomb Add excitement to your winter warmup with the latest Instagram-worthy trend — hot cocoa bombs. Pour hot milk over these locally crafted chocolate spheres and watch as they explode into sugary goodness.

• Try a chocolatier’s version with a milk chocolate bomb ($5) from Honadle’s Fine Chocolates. Hartville, honadles.com • The new Griddles Cafe impresses with chocolate-drizzled flavors like Oreo and peppermint ($3-$4). Medina, 330-722-9886 • Get more than just chocolate with unique varieties from Bomb Berries By Allison like strawberry cheesecake and s’mores ($5-$7). Akron, facebook.com/ bombberriesbyallison

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akronlife.com | JANUARY 2021

Nice Spin Get positive vibes and a take on social injustices with a new hip-hop mixtape, “The Evolution Will Be Televised,” from Akron musicians Minus the Alien and La Butterfly. Kicked off by a Malcom X clip pleading us to get to the root of the problem, the compilation features the youth advocate and his fiancée spouting rhymes about issues like police brutality while imparting a path to rise above. Standout “Unidentified” explores individuality amongst a soulful beat and declares “You can’t box me. They can’t box we.” Stream via Minus the Alien’s SoundCloud page

PAGES UPFRONT

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

Special Order This year we’re enjoying a taste of the 330 Flavor Awards winners at home.

wreaths and Christmas lights trimming the picturesque gazebo at the city center, everything felt a bit magical. Residents knew small businesses have been hit hard during the pandemic, and they stood by them.

But the holidays are over, and the need is still there. This year marks Akron Life’s third annual 330 Flavor Awards voted for by you.

The Arthritis Foundation’s Red & White tasting event honoring winners has been canceled for safety reasons. But this issue remains a celebration of the winners in 70 categories, and supporting them is paramount.

We parked before our Thyme2 carryout order was ready, so my husband, Tony, and I bundled up and strolled Medina’s public square.

Being inside so much skews your perspective of the outside world, so I was expecting a ghost town. But it was nice to see masked residents on all sides of the square, showing up for Small Business Saturday. Bags in hand, patrons milled gift stores, cafes and confectionaries beyond glowing holiday window displays and doors with stickers encouraging them to “Shop Local.”

After we got our food, we cranked the heat in Tony’s car and ate our burgers — I enjoyed the scrumptious Benedict burger featured on pg. 18 — before lining up for the drive-thru Christmas lights at the Medina County Fairgrounds. Uplifted from the merry display, I thought of the square as we passed under lighted arches. With

We’ve already lost too many Northeast Ohio restaurants, including Louie’s Bar & Grille, which closed in October after 28 years as an Akron institution. In early December, Medina spot Sully’s Irish Pub posted a plea on social media for more patrons, writing that otherwise, neighborhood staples, like Sully’s which has been on the square for 12 years, are at risk of closing.

Three-quarters of respondents to a 2020 Ohio Restaurant Association poll reported revenue dropping by 20 to more than 70 percent over the previous year.

These restaurants are a part of our daily lives. My brother-in-law, Greg, described it well when he commented that for his family, regularly getting carryout feels like a small return to normalcy. For Tony and I, ordering carryout on weekends — empanadas from NoHi Pop-up in Akron, chorizo tacos from Emi’s Taqueria or Galley Boys from Swenson’s Drive-In — makes us feel more connected to the community and makes ordinary days feel special.

We’re lucky to have so many innovative restaurants in The 330. While Thyme2 did less than 10 percent carryout before the

pandemic, chef John Kolar said it pivoted to doing carryout as more than half of its business. Much of those orders are homestyle family meal specials (think: beef stroganoff ) that he added during the shutdown. The demand has been huge on some days, with cars lining up and items selling out. While that isn’t always the case, he accredits the new approach for helping to keep his doors open.

“It really took off. We learned a lot on the to-go scene. We’ve stayed up on things people want, and I think that’s really helped us not only survive but kind of excel,” he says.

The family meal model has also been successful at other spots like Blue Heron Brewery. And restaurant owners have worked hard to add outdoor seating options for winter with igloos or remodels, including the newly enclosed heated terrace at Beau’s Grille.

The 330 Flavor Awards is a testament to how food makes our communities distinctive. Let’s not lose that. Use the winners’ list to try Akron specialties like sauerkraut balls, white French dressing, jojos and burgers (shout out to Menches Bros. in Green for inventing them!). Our neighbors are behind every winner.

It has been inspiring to see strong local support. Dine in with masks, carry out, buy gift cards and keep showing up. Each order helps keep the flavor of The 330 unique.

[ Eating Local? Share a pic of your carryout with #AkronLife and #330food on social media, and you could end up in the next issue.

]

JANUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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AGENDA

JANUARY 2021 | VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 1

Agenda the essential social digest

Akron Symphony Orchestra Get sophisticated in your living room with ASO Musicians at Home and ASO Radio Hour, featuring videos of past performances and Preview from the Podium chats with conductor Christopher Wilkins. Also subscribe to its “Unorchestrated” podcast that features Wilkins in a discussion with Akron poet Rita Dove on her acclaimed poetry collection, “Sonata Mulattica,” which details the relationship between black violinist George Bridgetower and Ludwig van Beethoven. akronsymphony.org

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akronlife.com | JANUARY 2021

AGENDA

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

NOTE: In light of cancellations surrounding the ever-changing pandemic, double-check the status of events before attending.

Remote Akron Art Museum Explore the museum’s collections online. Kiddos and those wanting to get creative can craft via video lessons.

For some Northeast Ohio inspiration, try making op art folders that mimic the artistic style of Clevelander Julian Stanczak. akronartmuseum.org/at-home

Akron Civic Theatre The Civic has an assortment of live performances from all over with its Live Virtually portal. Check its Facebook every week for local musicians’ streams, events, stage shows and other performances. facebook.com/ akroncivic

Akron Soul Train View video profiles from past, current and future Akron Soul Train artists-in-residence. facebook.com/ akronsoultrain

Akron-Summit County Public Library Sit the kids down for regular storytimes with children’s librarians or various book talks via videos on its Facebook page. Books are available inside or for curbside pickup at library locations. facebook.com/akronlibrary

Akron Zoo Visit the zoo via Zoom to enjoy live keeper talks, animal encounters and presentations from local experts. akronzoo.org The Americana Roundup Akron musician Ryan Humbert has 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 Check 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 with the Music for the Soul video series from the Cleveland Baroque orchestra.

The group regularly posts past concert videos, interviews with people like the Grammy Award-winning conductor Jeannette Sorrell and related readings. See shows through a digital portal or socially distanced in person. apollosfire.org

Blu Jazz Jazz enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite tunes through livestreams on Blu Jazz’s Facebook page and continue to support local artists in our community. facebook. com/blujazzakron

Canton History Canton museums got together to regularly provide online content via social media. Engage in history lessons from the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum on Mondays, the Paul Brown Museum at the Massillon Museum on Tuesdays, the National First Ladies’ Library on Thursdays, the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Fridays and the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum on Saturdays. Visit each museum’s Facebook page for updates.

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JANUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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AGENDA

Canton Symphony Orchestra

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

The orchestra is offering fun ways to engage virtually. Watch videos to learn about running an orchestra, take in mini concerts and even learn how to cook with assistant conductor Matthew Jenkins Jaroszewicz. facebook.com/cantonsymphony

The North American Reciprocal Museum Association is offering virtual tours of the first floor of the Manor House at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. Guests can tour the most impressive floor without leaving their homes. stanhywet. org

Cleveland Orchestra

Up Front Art Space

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

This Cuyahoga Falls gallery is sharing photos and videos of artwork for sale to support local creatives. facebook. com/upfrontartspace

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 Saturdays on its YouTube channel. Watch the livestreams, then visit the online store to order dinner, tip the band, make a donation and buy merchandise. jillysmusicroom.com

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 in the past. Check out the 50plus videos to enjoy your favorites and discover new sounds. the330.net/virtual-jukebox

Wandering Aesthetics Theatre

Nightlight Cinema 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.

Ohio Shakespeare Festival Check out its new venture, Ohio Shakespeare Festival Radio Plays, in which the troupe adapts plays and short stories for livestreaming. facebook. com/ohioshakespeare

Radio on the Lake Theatre It utilizes modern technology to connect with actors, directors and artists from throughout the country to perform and record radio plays.

The new series from the Shaker Heights-based organization presents scripts adapted from classic films. Holiday presentations such as “Miracle on 34th Street” and “It’s a Wonderful Life” are available. radioonthelaketheatre.org

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

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akronlife.com | JANUARY 2021

The museum is open with limited visits. Each day between noon and 1 p.m., the building is closed to disinfect public spaces. Visitors can choose a morning or afternoon time to help maintain proper social distancing. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to noon and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The museum is closed Sunday and Monday. Guests are not permitted to leave in the morning and come back in the afternoon. 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW, Canton. $8 children, $10 adults. mckinleymuseum.org

Pro Football Hall of Fame Explore Canton’s roots as the birthplace of the NFL. There are new social distancing measures and occupancy restrictions. The museum is giving out masks.

2121 George Halas Drive NW, Canton. 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Free members, $28 adults. profootballhof.com

Summit Artspace

On the first Saturday of each month, this Akron troupe hosts an open mic night known as the Electric Pressure Cooker Cabaret. Anyone and everyone can join in with any kind of performance — it could be play readings, comedy, puppets, dance or whatever else artists submit. Watch it afterward when the group posts videos from various performers compiled into a livestream. facebook.com/watheatre

Order free timed tickets for entry to Summit Artspace for exhibits Artists with studios in the building each have their own entry guidelines. Galleries are open Thursday from noon to 7 p.m. with noon to 3 p.m. open to vulnerable populations, Friday noon to 7 p.m. and Saturday noon to 5 p.m. Reserve your free ticket online.

140 E. Market St., Akron. Free. summitartspace.org

Open Institutions

Summit Metro Parks

Akron Zoo You can still visit the zoo to see your favorite animals while social distancing. 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free members, $8 adults. akronzoo.org

Magical Theatre Co. The Barberton theater company is offering game nights and educational videos on its website.

Children can also enjoy stories read by local theater veterans during Magical Storytime. magicaltheatre. org

McKinley Presidential Library & Museum

Head outdoors and soak up some natural vitamin D by exploring several scenic parks. Visit the website to find sledding hills and other winter activities. summitmetroparks.org

Events

Canton Museum of Art

Through 1/2 Light the Boulevard

With limited capacity and shorter hours, the Canton Museum of Art welcomes visitors. The extra off-hours allow plenty of time for cleaning areas before, during and after opening. Timed tickets are available on the museum website. 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. TuesdayThursday 10 a.m.- 8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Sunday 1 p.m.- 5 p.m. Free members, for all on Thursdays and the first Friday $8 adults. cantonart.org.

Through 1/3 Lock 3 Winter Activities Visit Lock 3 to experience socially

Cuyahoga Valley National Park Get outside, breathe fresh air and visit one of the many areas of the park. Take a hike through beautiful scenery.

Check out its social media and website for up-to-date info before visiting. nps.gov/cuva/index.htm

Hale Farm & Village Explore our area’s history by purchasing required timed tickets in advance with the final ticket sold at 3 p.m.

Masks are required. Additional guidelines are available online. 2686 Oak Hill Road, Peninsula. 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Free members, $12 adults. wrhs.org

Massillon Museum Staffers are working diligently to create a comfortable and safe venue for visitors. New art exhibitions await guests. Visitors should wear masks. Staff members are on hand to greet guests, offer directions, answer questions and accept class registrations. 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.- 5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org

The Kenmore Neighborhood Alliance organized local artists, families and organizations to decorate more than a dozen storefronts on display for the holidays.

Kenmore, Akron. Free. betterkenmore.org

distanced activities for the winter season, such as walking along an outdoor art gallery and checking out decorated window displays. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron, lock3live.com

Through 1/16 “About Body | About Face” Featuring the work of photographer and Canton resident Yvonne Palkowitsh and other Ohio artists, this Artists Archives of the Western Reserve exhibit focuses on the representation of the Black body in art and culture. Artists Archives of the Western Reserve, 1834 E. 123rd St., Cleveland.

Wednesday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday noon-4 p.m.

Free. artistsarchives.org

Through 1/17 “Stark County Artists Exhibition” Visit this juried exhibit of local artists’ work that the Massillon Museum has hosted for more than 30 years. View pieces of many different mediums, including Jo Westfall’s weaving piece made with yarn, wire and a telephone, in the Aultman Health Foundation Gallery. Massillon Museum, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org

AGENDA

Through 1/31 Live Music at the Still House Listen to a variety of musicians live at Gervasi Vineyard five nights a week. Gervasi Vineyard, the Still House, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 6:30-9:30 p.m. gervasivineyard.com

Through 2/28 After Christmas Sale Save 50 percent on most items in Tis the Season, Ohio’s largest year-round Christmas store. Tis the Season, 4363 state Route 39, Millersburg. MondaySaturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. tistheseasonchristmas.com

Through 3/7 “Ceramics for the Anthropocene: Dennis Meiners Ceramics” This exhibit at the Canton Museum of Art depicts the effects of humanity on nature’s ecosystems, emphasizing the effects on both humans and other animals. The Oregonbased artist’s creative process is sustainable. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton.

Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Sunday 1- 5 p.m. Free members, for all Thursdays and on the first Friday, otherwise $8 adults. cantonart.org

Through 3/7 “Dancing in the Light: Masterworks from the Age of American Impressionism” This exhibit at the Canton Museum of Art features pieces from around 1878 to 1930 from various museums’ collections, with a focus on watercolor. This exhibit also celebrates the museum’s 85th anniversary. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Tuesday-Thursday 10a.m.-8 p.m. Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Free members, for all Thursdays and the first Friday, otherwise $8 adults. cantonart.org

Through 3/7 “Fortuna: Designs

by Vincent Quevedo” The Kent State University Museum features an exhibit by award-winning designer and associate professor Vincent Quevedo that references the goddess of luck and fate. Must purchase advance tickets online. Kent State University Museum Higbee Gallery, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. TuesdaySaturday 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free members, staff and students, $6 general public. kent. edu/museum

Through 3/20 Community Sketchbook Project Akron Soul Train aims to lessen the stress of this winter with its new project, which allows you to pick up a sketchbook and create any art you want in it until Jan. 30. From Feb. 17 through March 20, an exhibit in the CapSoul Gallery displays the sketchbooks. Akron Soul Train, 191, King James Way, Akron. Wednesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $35. akronsoultrain.org

1/1-2/27 Illumination The Canton Light Festival features eight light installations and projections in different downtown Canton locations such as the Cultural Center for the Arts and Centennial Plaza. View each on Fridays and Saturdays in January and February. Downtown Canton.

Fridays and Saturdays 6-9 p.m. cantonlightfestival.com 1/2 Applied Drama for Growth The Center for Applied Drama and Autism and Theatre on the Spectrum offers a virtual teacher training workshop on helping empower students of all ages and abilities. The morning session focuses on advocacy and the afternoon session on bullying.

9 a.m.-noon, 1-4 p.m. $40-$68. centerforada.org

JANUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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AGENDA

1/2 “Bohemian Rhapsody” The Canton Palace Theatre presents the 2018 film about Queen’s Freddie Mercury as a part of Illumination light festival. Enjoy the film on the big screen with a live band. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 7:30 p.m. $10. cantonpalacetheatre.org 1/2 Hartville Sports Card Show Attend this show to see 30 vendors’ sports cards, autographs and more. Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Free. hartvillemarketplace.com

1/2 & 1/3 GroundWorks Second Annual Winter Intensive GroundWorks DanceTheater’s intensive this year is fully virtual, focusing on modern, ballet, instructional strategies and more.

Also experience how the dance company rehearses and creates new pieces. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. $150-$200. groundworksdance.org

1/3 Cultivating Mindfulness Through Art: Watercolor This class employs watercolor work to facilitate mindful attention and promote rest and relaxation through art. Open for ages 15 and up both in person and virtually. Due to social distancing, in-person classes are limited to eight artists per session. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron. 6:15-7:30 p.m. $25. akronartworks.com

1/5 Akron Art Museum After Work: Akron Art Mail Join a virtual discussion about the Akron Art Mail exhibition, which features the postcard-sized work of 15 local artists and 10 local writers. Museum staff joins Akron-Summit County Public Library staff, who partnered with the museum for the project, to answer participants’ questions, share their favorite pieces and explain how community members can contribute a piece to this exhibit. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. akronartmuseum.org

1/7 An Evening with Bill Nye The Hudson Library & Historical Society hosts a livestream discussion with Bill Nye, the science educator, TV host and author. He discusses his book, “Bill Nye’s Great Big World of Science.” 7 p.m. Free. hudsonlibrary.com 1/7-1/9 One Act Play Festival Watch a virtual performance to see a series of short plays directed by Firestone Theatre students through the Akron School for the Arts. firestonetheatre.com

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1/7-2/4 “NewNow 2021” This multimedia juried exhibition features over 60 artists’ work, which is judged by Cat Sheridan, the director of the Ohio Arts Council’s Riffe Gallery. Cuyahoga Community College Eastern Campus, Tri-C Gallery East, 4250 Richmond Road, Highland Hills. Monday-Thursday 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. tri-c.edu

1/9-2/28 “Charles Mintz: Lustron Stories” Massillon Museum features an exhibit centered on the enamel-coated steel houses built by Lustron Corp. between 1948 and 1950. The exhibit includes Mintz’s photographs and interviews of 125 Lustron homeowners. Massillon Museum, Studio M Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org 1/9-3/6 Staging the Problem This play directing workshop lead by August Scarpelli teaches students age 16 and up about solutions to common theater challenges, such as pitching ideas, finding a cast, working with delicate content and more. Western Reserve Playhouse, 3326 Everett Road, Bath. Saturdays 3-5 p.m. $75. thewrp.org.

1/12-9/26 “Stitched: Regional Dress Across Europe” Kent State University Museum features an exhibition that showcases regional costume across Europe, highlighting what the pieces have in common rather than the original context, which marked social differences. Purchase tickets in advance online. Kent State University Museum, Stager and Blum Galleries, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent.

Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Sunday noon-4 p.m.

Free members, students and staff, $6 general public. kent.edu/museum

1/14 Coffee with the Collection: “Making Your Mark” Join this virtual conversation to learn more about “Making Your Mark,” an exhibit featuring nine Northeast Ohio artists, which is on display through March 14 at the Akron Art Museum. 10-11 a.m. Free members, $5 general public. akronartmuseum.org

1/14-2/6 “Wayne/Holmes Artists Exhibition” Visit the Wayne Center for the Arts for this annual exhibit featuring works from local artists. Wayne Center for the Arts, Looney and Gault Galleries, 237 S. Walnut St., Wooster. MondayThursday 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. wayneartscenter.org

1/15 Winter Stargazing The University of Mount Union’s Huston Brumbaugh Nature Center hosts this guided walk. Learn about constellations, planets and more. HustonBrumbaugh Nature Center, 16146 Daniel St. NE, Minerva. 7:30-9 p.m. Free. mountunion.edu/events 1/16 Identifying and Preserving Your Family Photographs Learn tips on preserving photos and facts from your family tree during this virtual discussion with Maureen Taylor hosted by the Akron-Summit County Public Library. 1-2:30 p.m.

Free. services.akronlibrary.org

1/16 Online Art at Home Art Night Create a painting with inspiration from Akron’s icons and assistance from instructor Micah Beree via Zoom. 7-9 p.m. $25. akronartworks.com

1/17 Anxiety and Stress Reduction for Preteens/Teens: Relaxation & Coping This class promotes coping skills through watercolor art for children ages 11 to 15 both in person and virtually.

Due to social distancing, in-person classes are limited to eight artists per session. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron. 6:15-7:30 p.m. $22. akronartworks.com

1/22-1/24 Akron Home & Garden Show The annual event featuring products and ideas for homeowners is moving forward its 27th year, with modifications in place due to COVID-19. Confirm details online before visiting. John S. Knight Center, 77 E. Mill St., Akron. akronhomeandflower.com.

1/23 Kent State University AllStar Band Concert Listen to Kent State University All-Star Band perform virtually. This annual high school honor band connects more than 180 high school students for a fun and intense two days of music making. Band directors nominate students, and students are selected to participate in an ensemble. Free. kent.edu/music

1/23 Hartville Antique Show The Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market hosts an antique show with local vendors’ vintage and antique items such as toys and signs. Browse or become a vendor. Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market, 1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Free. hartvillemarketplace.com

1/23 Movies at the Roxy Enjoy the 1980 film “9 to 5,” starring Dolly Parton, Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda, at the historic Roxy Theatre.

Seating is limited to 28 people. Roxy Theatre, 114 N Market St., Minerva. 7 p.m. $3. minervachamber.org 1/27 Nature in Winter: Life in the Cold and Frigid Landscapes The Akron-Summit County Public Library and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History partner to present this virtual program about Northeast Ohio winters and how to help birds in the cold. Conservation specialist Judy Semroc leads the discussion. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. services. akronlibrary.org

AGENDA

1/28 “Musical Patterns” The premiere of episode five of the Cleveland Orchestra’s In Focus virtual series has moved to Jan. 28 at 7 p.m.

The concert, filmed at Severance Hall in December, features Vinay Parameswaran as conductor, Jung-Min Amy Lee on violin and Marc-André Hamelin on piano.

All five episodes can be found on the orchestra’s streaming service Adella. adella.live

1/28 Winter Wine Pairing Enjoy a five-course meal featuring dishes like potato and rock shrimp chowder and oven-roasted lamb, all paired with award-winning wines. Gervasi Vineyard, the Villa Grande Ballroom, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton. 6-8:30 p.m. $90. gervasivineyard.com 1/29 & 1/30 Falcon-Palooza: The Talent Show Watch a variety of performances by Firestone Theatre students during this virtual talent show, featuring acts such as music, dance and other special skills. firestonetheatre.com

1/31 Summit Choral Society’s Winter Wonderland Concert Comprised of children of all ages in award-winning choral and instrumental programs, this ensemble performs favorite holiday songs in a socially distanced show. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 3 p.m. $7.50-$30. akroncivic.com

February-May Tuesday Musical’s 133rd Season Tuesday Musical’s new season runs from February through May, with six concerts at E.J. Thomas Hall.

The orchestra features Black and Latino musicians, a men’s choir, a solo pianist and bassist and a saxophone quartet. FebruaryMay. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. tuesdaymusical.org

2/18 Elegance: The Harper’s Voice Cleveland Baroque orchestra Apollo’s Fire presents this concert featuring harps and direction by Parker Ramsay and soprano vocals by Amanda Powell. Purchase a ticket for in-person or virtual listening to enjoy music by six Apollo’s Fire musicians in all. First United Methodist Church of Akron, 263 E. Mill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $10-$70. apollosfire.org

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

AKRON MONUMENT & GRANITE CO. Since 1973, Jim Leone has earned the reputation that thousands of families have trusted for honesty, integrity and professionalism.

With the expertise of skillful designers and craftsmen, customers have peace of mind that their family monument will be produced and installed in the best manner possible.

590 East Tallmadge Avenue, Akron | 330-252-1746 | akronmonumentgranite.com

JANUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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330 FLAVOR AWARDS

by Molly Heideman, Zaria Johnson, Kelly Petryszyn and Alexandra Sobczak

CHEFS ARE KEEPING US COZY AT HO ME WIT H O U R RES TAU RANT FAV E S TO- G O. FR OM RAM EN TO A MAC ‘N’ CHEESE FL ATBREAD, THERE IS P L E N T Y O F CO MFORTIN G GOODN ES S G O I N G A R O UND T HE 330 CARRYOU T S C E N E . G ET YO UR F IX WITH OU R S P OT L IG HT S A ND TH E 330 F L AVOR AWA RD WINNE R S YOU PICKED AS BE S T FO R CHICKEN AN D WAF F LES, P I Z Z A , DO UG HNUTS AND M ORE. 18

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photos by Tylar Sutton

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Wood ear salad with garlic from Han Chinese Kabob & Grill in Cleveland. “It’s more homestyle,” says Cheryl Suen, the assistant manager of House of Hunan.

“It’s something cold.”

The 100-plus items on the menu at House of Hunan originate from a trade learned overseas and skills passed down a family tree.

Tien-shi Kung, who is from Shandong, China, started as a cook in the military and later opened a restaurant in Taiwan. After immigrating to the United States, he opened House of Hunan in 1983, which has locations in Fairlawn and Medina. He is now retired, and his daughter, Cheryl Suen, her husband, Lawrence, and their daughter, Deena, keep the spot and its Asian recipes alive. Lawrence, who learned to cook in

Taiwan, has taken over as chef.

“I remember [Kung] was making all the dishes with different kinds of sauces, showing to my husband,” Cheryl says.

Although the restaurant has adapted to fit its clientele over the years, House of Hunan still offers authentic cuisine in its restaurant and to-go. It focuses on quality ingredients, sometimes sourcing from New York and overseas.

The Tonkatsu ramen ($13.95) features traditional Chinese noodles that are handmade from unbleached flour. Vegetables, such as onions and ginger, and pork on the bone are boiled down for the broth. It is topped

with a poached egg, wood ear mushrooms, scallions and a marinated pork cutlet that’s coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried.

“We do use the bone to boil down for hours — days — to get the flavor,” Cheryl says.

For carryout, the noodles and toppings are in a different box than the broth, so nothing gets mushy.

A well-liked dish that’s good for carryout is the pan-fried pork buns ($7.25 for four) that originate in northern China. This variation of traditional bao is filled with ground pork, then steamed and pan fried. The buns have an opening on top to let

steam escape, and added soy and sesame oil make them mild in taste.

“At home, this is what we eat, three, four times a week, different kinds. We never thought that people would like what we eat,” Cheryl says.

House of Hunan is the kind of carryout that won’t make you feel bad later.

“Nothing is ordered from a package,” Cheryl says. “It’s all scratch.”

Carryout, 2717 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-864-8215; Carryout or dine in, 18 Public Square, Medina, 330-7221899; thehouseofhunan.com

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One of the biggest draws to Darby’s on Fifty-Nine comes on a tiny bun. Darby’s is known for its five signature sliders, sold a la carte so you can get a light taste of finer fare.

“Most people love the mix and match, because you can get a whole scallop, a piece of filet or salmon without getting a huge entree,” says co-owner Josh Speas. “It fills you up.

That is a huge draw because it’s not so heavy.”

Usually, people order two different sliders and make it a small but delightful meal by adding hand-cut chips or fries. The filet mignon ($7) with thyme horseradish aioli and caramelized onions is the top seller, but don’t overlook the salmon slider ($6). Some patrons attest the salmon is the best, raving about its unsuspecting flavor.

“Those things mix together and really bring the flavor of the salmon out without being fishy,” Speas says.

The citrus aioli also tops the scallop slider ($7), which

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What makes these mouthwatering dishes even better is the fluffy challah buns that each is served on. They are made in-house and grilled till they are golden brown and crispy on the inside.

“They are buttered, kind of flaky. There is honey in the challah,” says co-owner Todd Mazzola. “They are a little bit sweeter of a bun.”

Dine inside or in igloo, or carryout, 2764 state Route 59, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-9227540, darbyson59.com

Pizza from HiHo Brewing Co. in Cuyahoga Falls.

“They have an excellent baker. He bakes all their dough from scratch,” says Darby’s on Fifty-Nine co-owner Todd Mazzola.

reels in fans with a perfectly seared scallop.

The sliders have fresh salmon topped with a sweet soy glaze and house-made citrus aioli.

While the salmon itself is pretty mild, the soy glaze and citrus aioli elevate the sweet, light taste of the salmon and add a tangy bite.

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Croissants from Blue Door Cafe & Bakery in Cuyahoga Falls.

“This guy is an artist when it comes to his pastries,” says Funky Truckeria co-owner and chef Steve Sabo.

Steve Sabo and Juan Gonzalez have been training for this moment.

Before opening Funky Truckeria in 2015, the co-owners and chefs ran their own food trucks, Orange Truk and Wholly Frijoles, respectively, and learned to cook fast. That speed was instrumental when the pandemic hit and orders ticked up to 500 on twofor-one taco Tuesdays and Thursdays.

“We doubled capacity, and it’s all takeout,” Sabo says.

Even with the high demand, each taco is made fresh to order. After tasting authentic ones on trips to Gonzalez’s native Mexico City and serving them while working in Los Angeles and San Diego, the chefs have learned fresh prep — along with creativity — is what sets street tacos apart.

As the name suggests, their tacos are funky. Inventive recipes showcase global influences from their travels, like the Korean barbecue tacos.

Choose from chicken, steak or pork belly. The latter option ($4.99) sings with three sauces and Ohio pork belly cooked in three steps.

The pork tenderizes in sous

vide bags for 14 hours, is fried and is pan seared with a Korean barbecue sauce that’s a mix of ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar and kiwi.

“I wanna call it bacon candy.

You get a crispy outer surface and a rich, creamy, fatty inner surface,” Sabo says. “We cook the sauce into that meat at the end, so we get full flavor on everything.”

It becomes funkier with a cabbage and carrot slaw tossed in a roasted poblano and lime sauce, sesame seeds, cilantro and a light drizzle of a sweet creamy Asian sauce that bursts with ginger and sesame. The final taco keeps the phone

ringing for a taste experience that Sabo describes as getting smacked upside the head.

“Beef, cheese, sour cream.

People are used to those kinds. So when they have the Korean barbecue … the softness, crispness of that pork and you mix it with the slaw and carrots,” Gonzalez says, “people don’t expect those flavors to pop in your mouth.

It’s like, Whoa. What is this? ” Carryout or dine in, 3200 Greenwich Road, Norton, 330-208-0560, thefunkytruckeria.com

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Plain burger from the Normandy Inn in Minerva.

“They’re so juicy and big,” says Amanda Conrad, co-owner of Sandy Springs Brewing Co.

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says. “We gave it to our staff, and they loved this, so we added it to the menu.”

Idle time can lead to creative breakthroughs.

During the coronavirus shutdown last spring, Sandy Springs Brewing Co. owners Amanda and Andy Conrad were brainstorming new flatbread ideas, and he suggested incorporating one of his standbys with some protein.

The Brewmaster flatbread ($11) starts with baked mac ‘n’ cheese slathered on nan. It’s topped with grilled chicken, smoked Gouda and Asiago.

The couple felt it needed another dimension, so they drizzle on jalapeno ranch and Sriracha for a little kick.

“It’s macaroni and cheese with chicken. We made that for lunch one day messing around, and it ended up being really good,” Amanda

“There is a coolness to it.

It’s not over-the-top spicy.

It’s kind of a gentle heat,” Amanda says. “But then the Sriracha is spicier.”

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Those who are on the tamer side can order regular ranch.

Both varieties amplify the cheesiness of the dish.

“It’s delicious. You get the creamy dressing with the Asiago flavors of the mac ‘n’ cheese,” she says. “It pairs really well.”

Order it to-go with a light, crisp beer like the Dalai Mama ($11.75, crowler), a Citra hopped American India pale ale that doesn’t overpower the flatbread. Expect a slightly different presentation for carryout.

“We put the sauces on the side so it doesn’t get soggy, but the taste is the same,” Amanda says. “The combination of the savory and the spicy brings it all together for something unique.”

Dine inside or in igloos, carryout or curbside pickup, 232 N. Market St., Minerva, 330-522-4024, sandyspringsbrewery.com

Chipotle chicken and shrimp pasta from Corkscrew Saloon in Medina.

“It’s a homemade pasta. The shrimp has nice and crisp, bright flavors,” says Thyme2 chef John Kolar.

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In a world of uncertainty, familiar food hits the spot. Giving in to those cravings feels new with Thyme2 chef and Culinary Institute of America grad John Kolar’s Benedict burger ($12.50). It delivers the taste of eggs Benedict on a classic burger and shows off the gourmet flair he honed working in New York City.

Kolar starts by improving upon the basics: Each 8-ounce patty is hand-shaped from a tenderloin and boneless chuck blend from K&K Portage Market, a Cleveland butcher shop his family owns.

There is no tough, freezerburned meat here.

“Our burgers are considerably light and fluffy,” he says.

“Then we use Orlando [Baking Co.] challah, which is a little extra egg, a rich bun. We rub that with butter and toast that.”

He upgrades the standard hollandaise to an herby lemon aioli akin to a fancier French bearnaise sauce.

“It’s creamy. It’s rich. It’s got a little tarragon and garlic flavor,” Kolar says. “Nice and savory.”

Diners have said the dish, which is served with a house salad or hand-cut fries, is “to die for,” and Kolar attributes the rave reviews to the overeasy egg that sits atop the burger with smoky grilled

ham and Muenster. It’s served firmer for carryout, but that burst at the first bite remains a showstopper.

“As soon as the egg breaks, it infuses so much flavor and warmth,” he says.

Those kinds of culinary surprises, rarely devised by home cooks, have been driving

Thyme2’s explosion of car“It’s a comfort food thing,” ryout orders during the panKolar says. “In this time, I demic. Kolar also offers famthink we’re all looking for a ily meal packs on weeknights bit of comfort.” with his interpretations of staples his mom used to make, Carryout, dine in or curbside pickup, like manicotti made from 113 W. Smith Road, Medina, Ohio City Pasta that was 330-764-4114, served with a house tiramisu. thymetherestaurant.com Kolar knows how to feed into people’s homestyle appetite as only a chef can.

JANUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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BEST RESTAURANT IN THE 330 1 . Diamond Grille 2 . Luigi’s Restaurant 3 . D’Agnese’s at White Pond 3 . Sylvester’s North End Grille BEST NEW RESTAURANT 1 . Butcher & Sprout 1 . Alexander Pierce 2 . Great Oaks Tavern 2 . The Farmer’s Table 3 . Pickle Mama’s Market & Eatery BEST RESTAURANT IN DOWNTOWN AKRON 1 . Diamond Grille 2 . Luigi’s Restaurant 3 . Crave BEST RESTAURANT IN MEDINA COUNTY 1 . Thyme2 2 . 111 Bistro 3 . Timber Lodge BEST RESTAURANT IN SUMMIT COUNTY 1 . Luigi’s Restaurant 2 . The Merchant Tavern 3 . Diamond Grille BEST RESTAURANT IN PORTAGE COUNTY 1 . The River Merchant 1 . Arnie’s West Branch Steak House 2 . Ray’s Place 3 . Treno Ristorante BEST RESTAURANT IN STARK COUNTY 1 . The Bistro at Gervasi Vineyard 2 . Sylvester’s North End Grille 3 . Table Six Kitchen & Bar

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BEST CHEF IN THE 330 1 . Beau Schmidt (Beau’s Grille) 2 . Tony Sledge (Kingfish) 3 . John G. Bahas (Waterloo Restaurant and Catering) BEST RESTAURATEUR 1 . John G. Bahas 2 . George Schindler 3 . Kassandra Morrison BEST SERVICE STAFF 1 . Waterloo Restaurant and Catering 2 . The Merchant Tavern 3 . The Twisted Olive BEST BREAKFAST 1 . Farmer Boy Restaurant 2 . Wally Waffle 3 . The Eye Opener BEST CHICKEN AND WAFFLES 1 . Wally Waffle 2 . Table Six Kitchen & Bar 3 . Crave BEST BENEDICT 1 . The Eye Opener 2 . Wally Waffle 3 . The Blue Door Cafe & Bakery BEST BRUNCH 1 . Beau’s on the River 2 . The Blue Door Cafe & Bakery 3 . Burntwood Tavern BEST SANDWICHES 1 . Diamond Deli 2 . The Merchant Tavern 3 . Primo’s Deli BEST CLASSIC BURGER 1 . Swensons Drive-In 2 . The Merchant Tavern 3 . Menches Bros.

Restaurant

BEST VEGGIE BURGER 1 . Mustard Seed Market & Cafe 2 . The Merchant Tavern 3 . Swensons Drive-In

BEST JOJOS 1 . Gionino’s Pizzeria 2 . Rizzi’s Ristorante & Pizzeria 3 . Leonardo’s Pizza

BEST BARBECUE 1 . City Barbeque 2 . Big Eu’es BBQ 3 . Old Carolina Barbecue Co.

BEST SAUERKRAUT BALLS 1 . The Merchant Tavern 2 . Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s 3 . Rockne’s

BEST REUBEN 1 . Diamond Deli 2 . Primo’s Deli 3 . Rockne’s

BEST APPETIZER MENU 1 . The Merchant Tavern 2 . Beau’s Grille 3 . Table Six Kitchen & Bar

BEST WINGS 1 . Fat Head’s Brewery 2 . Beau’s Grille 3 . Gionino’s Pizzeria

BEST CHARCUTERIE 1 . Crave 2 . D.B.A., Dante Boccuzzi Akron 3 . Lock 15 Brewing Co.

BEST FRIED CHICKEN 1 . White House Chicken 2 . Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery 3 . Belgrade Gardens BEST STEAKHOUSE 1 . Diamond Grille 2 . Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar 3 . Ken Stewart’s Grille 3 . Sylvester’s North End Grille BEST GASTROPUB 1 . Table Six Kitchen & Bar 2 . The Merchant Tavern 3 . Lock 15 Brewing Co. BEST TACOS 1 . El Fogon Mexican Grill 2 . Barrio 2 . El Rancho 3 . Bomba Taco & Bar BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1 . El Fogon Mexican Grill 2 . El Rancho 3 . Tito’s Mexican Grill 3 . Latino Bar and Grill

SPICIEST FOOD IN THE 330 1 . Saffron Patch 2 . Cilantro 3 . Pad Thai BEST COCKTAILS 1 . Kingfish 2 . Bistro on Main 3 . The Merchant Tavern BEST HAPPY HOUR 1 . Jerzee’s Sports Grille 2 . Kingfish 3 . Brubaker’s Pub BEST A.M. ADULT DRINKS 1 . The Eye Opener 2 . Burntwood Tavern 3 . Mustard Seed Market & Cafe BEST MARGARITAS 1 . El Fogon Mexican Grill 2 . El Ricon 3 . El Rancho BEST MULES 1 . The Merchant Tavern 2 . Jilly’s Music Room 2 . Crave 3 . Diamond Grille

BEST RESTAURANT BEER SELECTION 1 . Winking Lizard 2 . Ray’s Place 3 . Caston & Main Brew Yard BEST BREWERY 1 . Hoppin’ Frog Brewery 2 . R. Shea Brewing 3 . Missing Mountain Brewing Co. BEST WINE SELECTION 1 . Beau’s Grille 2 . The Merchant Tavern 3 . Gervasi Vineyard BEST WINERY 1 . Gervasi Vineyard 2 . Sarah’s Vineyard 3 . The Winery at Wolf Creek BEST COFFEE/ESPRESSO 1 . Nervous Dog Coffee Bar 2 . Artisan Coffee 3 . Angel Falls Coffee Co. BEST COFFEE SHOP ATMOSPHERE 1 . Angel Falls Coffee Co. 2 . Nervous Dog Coffee Bar 3 . Artisan Coffee BEST SUSHI 1 . Kasai Japanese Restaurant 2 . Sakura 3 . Cilantro 3 . Sushi Asia Gourmet BEST CHINESE CARRYOUT 1 . House of Hunan 2 . Chen’s Garden 2 . No. 1 Chinese Kitchen 3 . China House BEST THAI CUISINE 1 . Rice Paper Thai Cuisine 2 . Cilantro 3 . Pad Thai

BEST INDIAN FOOD 1 . Saffron Patch 2 . Bombay Sitar 3 . Jaipur Junction BEST MEDITERRANEAN FOOD 1 . Aladdin’s Eatery 2 . Shawarma Bros.

3 . Desert Inn BEST ETHNIC MARKET 1 . DeVitis Italian Market 2 . Far East Oriental Market 3 . Fuad Khayyat’s Vine Valley BEST PIZZA 1 . Luigi’s Restaurant 2 . Guiseppe’s Pizza 3 . Gionino’s Pizzeria BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1 . Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s 2 . Dontino’s Fine Italian Cuisine 3 . Russo’s BEST NOODLES 1 . Rice Paper Thai Cuisine 2 . Cilantro 3 . Russo’s BEST SEAFOOD 1 . Kingfish 2 . Beau’s Grille 3 . Diamond Grille BEST SALADS 1 . Mustard Seed Market & Cafe 2 . Aladdin’s Eatery 3 . Ms. Julie’s Kitchen 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 . Ken Stewart’s Grille 3 . The Merchant Tavern BEST HOUSE-MADE ITALIAN DRESSING 1 . Luigi’s Restaurant 2 . Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s 3 . Dontino’s Fine Italian Cuisine BEST CHEESECAKE 1 . The West Side Bakery 2 . Showcase Meats 3 . Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar BEST CAKE 1 . The West Side Bakery 2 . Tiffany’s Bakery 3 . Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery BEST CUPCAKE 1 . The West Side Bakery 2 . Pallotta’s Pastries 3 . Pandora’s Gourmet Cupcakes, Creamery and Popcorn BEST DOUGHNUTS 1 . Jubilee Donuts 2 . George’s Donuts 3 . Circles on the Square BEST FROZEN DESSERT 1 . Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt 2 . Pav’s Creamery 3 . Trecaso’s Mary Coyle BEST CHOCOLATES 1 . Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery 2 . Malley’s Chocolates 3 . Heggy’s Candy Co.

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BEST FOOD TRUCK 1 . D & M’s Grille 2 . Swensons Drive-In 3 . The Square Scullery BEST VIEW 1 . Beau’s on the River 2 . Burntwood Tavern 3 . Missing Mountain Brewing Co. BEST SPORTS BAR 1 . Jerzee’s Sports Grille 2 . Brubaker’s Pub 3 . The Town Tavern BEST PLACE TO EAT AT THE BAR 1 . The Merchant Tavern 2 . Jerzee’s Sports Grille 3 . Kingfish MOST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT 1 . The Bistro of Green 2 . Lanning’s Restaurant 3 . Beau’s on the River BEST RESTAURANT TO TAKE THE KIDS 1 . Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery 2 . Rockne’s 3 . Domenic’s Rose Villa Restaurant BEST CASUAL DINING 1 . Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery 2 . Caston & Main Brew Yard 3 . Rockne’s BEST FINE DINING 1 . Diamond Grille 2 . Lanning’s Restaurant 3 . Ken Stewart’s Grille

BEST CATERER 1 . Waterloo Restaurant and Catering 2 . Todaro’s Party Center 3 . Totally Cooked

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GOOD EATS

JANUARY 2021 | VOLUME 19 | 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 Alexander Pierce Fine dining menu of steaks and house-made pastas includes calamari misto and cavatelli alla vodka in an intimate speakeasystyle atmosphere. 797 E. Market St., Akron, 330-529-2003 $$$ D, A Arnie’s Public House An attractive, affordable restaurant with a modern twist on comfort food. Featuring award-winning burgers, chicken and waffles, fish and chips, pasta and vegetarian dishes. Also serving brunch on Sat. and Sun. 1682 W. Market St., Akron, 330-867-0154 $$$ 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 Basil Asian Bistro Menu features Thai, Chinese and Korean dishes, as well as sushi and Vietnamese specialties.

585 Market Ave. N, Canton, 330-4523888 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Beau’s Grille Upscale, well-regarded, innovative menu at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn. 3180 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-867-5218 $$$$ 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 26

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eclectic cuisine, lunch buffet and Sun. brunch. Sheraton Suites Akron Cuyahoga Falls, 1989 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 330-920-7530 $$$ B, L, D, A, T, W Bender’s Tavern Largest restaurant wine selection in Stark County. Menu features seafood. 137 Court Ave. SW, Canton, 330-453-8424 $$$$ L, D, A, T Bianca’s Italian Ristorante & Lounge Traditional Italian, juicy steaks and fresh seafood. 4284 Beverly Hills Drive, Brunswick, 330-225-0927 $$$ L, D, A, T, W 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 Bistro on Main House-made desserts, hand-cut steaks and fresh pasta.

1313 W. Main St., Kent, 330-673-9900 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Blu Plate Fine Southern-inspired fare in the Blu Jazz club with dinner and show packages available. 45 E. Market St., Akron, 330-252-1190 $$$ D, W, A, T Bob’s Hamburg Classic family diner with affordable favorites such as the BBQ Bonanza burger. 1351 East Ave., Akron, 330-253-2627 $ 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., Akron, 234-571-9692 $$$$ L, D, T Bomba Taco & Bar Chef-inspired Latin tacos, international rice bowls and creative desserts like mango mojito sorbet and churro ice cream sandwiches. 3900 Medina Road, Akron, 234-466-7180 $$$ L, D, A, 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 in Kent Menu is modeled after

the original Bricco in downtown Akron. À la carte brunch on Sun. 210 S. Depeyster St., Kent, 330-677-1335 $$$ L, D, A, T Brubaker’s Pub Specialty sandwiches, wraps, pizzas, appetizers and a full bar. Bottomless soup and salad special. 4005 Medina Road, Montrose, 330-666-8021; 5823 Darrow Road, Hudson, 330-6509401; 3939 Massillon Road, Green, 330-896-8803; 357 S. Main St., Downtown Akron, 330-253-7160; 4141 Bridgewater Parkway, Stow, 330-475-1525 $$$ L, D, A, T, W Burntwood Tavern Owned by the couple that runs the other Burntwood locations in Rocky River, Brecksville, Chagrin Falls and Solon, this restaurant’s menu features steaks, sliders, hand-cut fries, smoked, planked and wood-grilled food. 2291 Riverfront Parkway, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-794-7085 burntwoodtavern.com $$$$ L, D, A, T, W Café 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 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Cafe Tandoor Casual atmosphere, Indian cuisine. 96 Barrington Town Center, Aurora, 330-562-5334 $$$ 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 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 Sunday brunch.

5010 S. Main St., Akron, 330-882-

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CASK (2275) $$$ L, D, A Cellar 59 Wine Bar & Wine Shop The menu in this renovated 19th-century farmhouse features small plates and desserts, as well as bottles of wine and craft beer. Closed Sun. and Mon. 3984 Kent Road, Stow, 330-688-2684 $$$ L, D, A, T Cilantro Upscale Thai and Japanese, extensive menu, fresh ingredients, hand-selected sushi and no monosodium glutamate. Eclectic atmosphere. 326 S. Main St., Akron, 330-434-2876 $$$ 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, 234-5711409 $$$ D, A, T, V Crave Creative comfort foods, slightly eccentric with bold tastes served up in a sensational setting. 57 E. Market St., Akron, 330-253-1234 $$ 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 Contemporary Italian food served in a classy yet casual setting. Live entertainment in the lounge. Full service catering. 566 White Pond Drive, Akron, 234-6783612 $$$ 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 state Route 59, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-922-7540 $$$ L, D, A, T D.B.A., Dante Boccuzzi Akron, Modern

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

DINING GUIDE

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

MAKING MEMORIES SWEETER

DINING GUIDE

The West Side Bakery is celebrating 26 years of serving Northeast Ohio with beautiful and delicious cakes, an eclectic variety of pastries, cookies and pies. We’re an awardwinning bakery providing custom creations and traditional favorites with a focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients. Our friendly service, attention to detail and artfully decorated cakes and pastries are the basis for our reputation. Come visit us for a mouthwatering experience.

We’re looking forward to “Making Memories Sweeter” for you!

THE WEST SIDE BAKERY 2303 W. Market St., Akron ǡ thewestsidebakery.com

AN AKRON DINING DESTINATION

CLASSIC AMERICAN FOOD WITH FLAIR

Waterloo Restaurant and Catering has been serving Akron and Canton for over 65 years. Started as a drive-thru, Waterloo has changed with the times to become a favorite meeting place for desserts, small banquets, walk-up ice cream service and creative cocktails and great wines. Family-owned for generations, Waterloo has expanded to include one of the area’s largest local catering services, serving anywhere from two to 2,000 guests.

Burntwood Tavern’s warm and inviting atmosphere is rich in character and provides the perfect showcase for its straightforward, chef-driven menu of smoked, planked and wood-grilled food. The bar offers handcrafted cocktails, made with fresh juices, house-infused vodkas and bourbons, as well as offerings from a diverse craft draft beer list.

WATERLOO RESTAURANT AND CATERING 423 E. Waterloo Road, Akron 330-773-5158 waterloorestaurant.com

BURNTWOOD TAVERN Located in Belden Village, Cuyahoga Falls and Fairlawn Text BURNTWOOD to 66866 to order online burntwoodtavern.com JANUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

27

GOOD EATS UNTAPPED

[ by Aaron Fowler ]

Wooly Pig Farm Brewery Fresno | Ohio pack Four-

When the opportunity arose to purchase a 90-acre farm less than a mile away from where his wife grew up in Fresno, Ohio, Kevin Ely couldn’t pass it up. So he left his job as the brewmaster of the awardwinning Uinta Brewing Co. in Salt Lake City.

He had worked at that brewery for nine years and had been professionally brewing for 20.

With a degree in brewing science from the University of California, Davis, Ely always admired Germany’s clean, crisp beers. His new Wooly Pig Farm Brewery brings that to the table.

Wooly Pig Farm Brewery occupies a converted barn on the Appalachian property and has 12 varieties of hops growing onsite. The brewery is the first of its kind in central Ohio, and it’s worth a road trip this year. Here are a few great selections you can take home from your visit.

RUSTIC HELLES This traditional helles lager is what you want from the style — a subtle floral hops character with a clean malt taste. It’s an excellent introduction for those wanting to try Bavarian-style craft beer.

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$10.9

IPL EINS If you prefer a hop-based beer, this India pale lager is for you.

Fan-favorite tropical hops like Galaxy and Citra join with Azacca hops to create a fruity and quaffable sip.

KELLER PILS Wooly Pig Farm Brewery’s take on a hoppier pilsner kicks it up a few notches. As with the style, the bright hop aroma and flavor are front and center, yet the beer still tastes clean and crisp thanks to the malt build.

SCHWARZBIER For those seeking something a bit darker, this German traditional black lager is an excellent addition to your fridge, especially during the colder months. Hints of dark chocolate and smokiness embody this beloved style.

[

Aaron Fowler is a sales representative at Cavalier Distributing.

]

Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com].

9

PAST. PRESENT. PERFECT. Hand cut prime steaks and fresh seafood daily.

Akron’s oldest full service restaurant.

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THANK YOU YOU AKRON LIFE READERS FOR VOTING US BEST DOWNTOWN AKRON RESTAURANT BEST STEAKHOUSE MOST ROMANTIC DINING akr on BEST RESTAURATEUR: KATIE STACK fe

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0551 $$ B, L, D, T El Fogon Mexican Grill Traditional Mexican fare from the owner of El Campesino in Canton and Perry Township. Full bar and weekly margarita specials. 1080 Interstate Parkway, Green, 330-644-7700 $$ L, D, A, T El Rincon Authentic Mexican cuisine. 720 S. Main St., North Canton, 330-497-2229 $$ L, D, A, T Emidio & Sons Since 1957, the family-owned Italian restaurant has been serving housemade pastas and specialty pizzas. 636 N. Main St., Akron, 330-253-4777; 3204 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-4282 $$ B, L, D, T Everest Restaurant Authentic Indian and Nepali meals include curry and gulab jamun, a sweet deepfried cheese dessert, in a no-frills restaurant run by Nepali natives.

2033 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 234706-6630 $$ L, D, W, T Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Barr Aged beef, chops, fresh seafood, salad and more than 100 wines by the glass.

4000 Medina Road, Akron, 330-670-5200 $$$$ D, A, T Foundry Social Have some nostalgic fun with games like duckpin bowling or electric go-karts while enjoying craft cocktails, elevated pub sandwiches and share plates. 333 Foundry St., Medina, 330-3339000 $$ L, D, A Franklin Hotel Bar An upscale downtown Kent bar featuring craft cocktails, share plates and small plates. 176 E. Main St., Kent, 330676-1000 $$ D, A Fred’s Dinerr Well-known North Hill stop for breakfast and lunch.

930 Home Ave., Akron, 330-535-3733 $ B, L, T The Galaxy Restaurant Diverse selection of dishes in a creative building. Fantastic

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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 Der Dutchman A familyfriendly comfort food restaurant in Amish Country offering a seniors’ menu, options for vegans and other special diets, along with house-made pies.

720 state Route 97 W, Bellville, 419-866-7070 $$ B, L, D, W, T Desert Inn Family-owned since 1970. Specializes in family-style shish kebabs. 204 12th St. NW, Canton, 330-4561766 $$$$ L, D, A Diamond Deli A local favorite with fat sandwiches and fresh soups. 378 S. Main St., Akron, 330-762-5877 $ B, L, A, D (Saturdays only), T Diamond Grille Akron’s oldest steakhouse, authentic 1950s-style decor. All steaks are hand-cut, and seafood is flown in fresh. 77 W. Market St., Akron, 330253-0041 $$$$ L, D, A No credit cards Driftwood at Embassy Suites Upscale casual dining featuring our multi-award-winning chili, handmade pasta and other entrees crafted in an open kitchen. Save room for a delightful made-from-scratch dessert, including our cinnamon roll cheesecake. Inside Embassy Suites by Hilton Akron Canton Airport, 7883 Freedom Ave. NW, North Canton, 330-305-0500 $$$ D Eddy’s Deli and Restaurant Try the banana split waffle, a corned beef sandwich or chicken paprikash.

2655 Oakwood Drive, Cuyahoga Falls, 330928-7489; 4581 Kent Road, Stow, 330-346-

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77 West Market Street, Akron, OH 44308 | 330-376-1216 www.diamondgrille.com

desserts. 201 Park Centre Drive, Wadsworth, 330-3343663 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Garretts Mill Breakfast items, sandwiches, soup and housemade ice cream. 4226 Hudson Drive, Stow, 330-926-1344 $$ B, L, T Gasoline Alley Eclectic menu featuring pizza, salads, sandwiches and sauerkraut balls.

870 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-2670 $$$ L, D, A, T Green Diamond Grille & Pub Upscale dining without upscale pricing. Specializes in steaks, chops, baby back ribs and seafood.

125 Second St., Barberton, 330-7451900 $$$ L, D, A, T Guiseppe’s Pizza Familyowned pizzeria known for its Sicilian-style square pizza. 14 E. Caston Road, Akron, 330-644-8842 $$ L, D, T Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery A spacious restaurant serving homestyle food made

from scratch with a bakery, oil and vinegar tasting room and candy shop on the site of the Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market. 1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330877-9353 $$$ L, D, T, W HiHO Brewing Co. Former educators and coowners Ali and Jon Hovan plate up fresh pizza with housemade dough and sauce along with myriad draft beers brewed in house. 1707 Front St., Cuyahoga Falls, 234-334-7564 $$$ L, D, A House of Hunan Common favorites to spicy specialties. Oriental decor. 2717 W. Market St., Fairlawn Town Centre, 330-864-8215; 18 Public Square, Medina, 330-722-1899 $$ L, D, A, T Hudson’s Restaurant Neighborhood restaurant and bar serving fresh, chefdriven dishes. Familyfriendly atmosphere.

80 N. Main St., Hudson,

330-650-1955 $$$ B, L, D, A, T Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse New York-style upscale steakhouse. 4073 Medina Road, Montrose, 330-6706303 $$$$ D, A, T, V Jilly’s Music Room Creative American tapas in a sophisticated setting with live music, concerts and events Wed. through Sat. All gluten-free menu. 111 N. Main St., Akron, 330576-5960 $$ D, A Jimmy Bigg’s Grille Burgers, Italian subs, Reubens, wings, Philly cheesesteak, BLTs, salads, hand-breaded onion rings and more.

1927 State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330929-2444 $$ L, D, A, T Kasai Japanese Restaurant Sushi, hibachi, noodles, don buri, agamono and more.

Enjoy a glass of wine and finish your meal with tempura cheesecake. 295 Weatherstone Drive, Wadsworth, 330-334-

7141; 3875 Massillon Road, Suite 300, Uniontown, 330-8999788 $$$ L, D, A, T Ken Stewart’s Grille Widely recognized as one of Akron’s finest. Upscale, eclectic cuisine.

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.

Specialties include an antipasto bar, big drinks and an extensive wine list.

1911 N. Cleveland Massillon Road, Bath, 330-666-9990 $$$ D, A, V, T Kennedy’s BBQ Pitsmoked ham, pork, beef, turkey, pulled pork sandwiches topped with cabbage relish, bean soup, chili

JANUARY 2021 | akronlife.com

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GOOD EATS and Troyer’s pie by the slice. 1420 Seventh St. NW, Canton, 330-4540193 $ L, D, T Kingfish A posh yet sleek interior features the freshest seafood of North Coast. Dress is business casual. Reservations recommended.

Happy Hour bar only weekdays 4-6 p.m.; Sun. 1-8 p.m. Dinner weekdays 4-10 p.m.; Fri and Sat 4-11 p.m.; Sunday 1-8 p.m. Closed major holidays and Super Bowl Sunday.

115 Montrose West Ave., Copley.

330-777-2005. kingfishakron.com. $$$$ D, A Kosar’s Wood-Fired Grill Award-winning steakhouse offering aged steaks, fresh chops and expertly prepared seafood tastefully in an upscale space decorated with beloved former Cleveland Browns player Bernie Kosar’s own authentic memorabilia.

At the MGM Northfield Park casino.

21 and over only. 10777 Northfield Road, Northfield, 330-908-7265 $$$$ D, A Laziza High-end Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare, plus steak and seafood dishes and a full bar. Acorn Alley, 195 E. Erie St., Kent, 330-6777000 $$$ L, D, A, T The Lockview Traditional American favorites. Fresh menu with spotlight on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. 207 S. Main St., Akron, 330-252-5128 $$ L, D, A, T Lucca Downtown Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Italian-inspired menu. Call for reservations. 228 Fourth St. NW, Canton, 330-456-2534. $$$$ L, D, A, T Lucia’s Steakhouse Located at Belden Village. Fresh seafood, signature garlic butter-topped steaks, Italian favorites and Lucia classics, like house-made crab cakes or cubanella and long, hot peppers. Closed Sun. 4769 Belpar St. NW, Canton, 330-4929933 $$$$ D, A 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.

Party trays and sheet-pan pizzas available with 24-hour notice. 105 N. Main St., Akron, 330-253-2999 $$ L, D, A, T No credit cards Magic City’s Remarkable Diner Chef-driven breakfast and lunch menu with surprising twists on diner classics, like the smoked salmon and Brie omelet. 451 Fairview Ave., Barberton, 330-983-9787 $$ 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 Menches Bros. Restaurant Inventors of the hamburger and ice cream cone.

In Akron since 1901. 3700 Massillon Road, Green, 330-896-2288 $$ B, L, D, A, T

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The Merchant Tavern With Owner Anthony Piscazzi’s family history running Akron’s beloved Wine Merchant restaurant and Chef Victor Todaro in the kitchen, this new restaurant already has a great start. Retail wines available. Tues., Wed., Thurs. 3:30 p.m.-midnight, Fri. 3:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m., Sat. noon-1:30 a.m., Sun. noon9 p.m. Lunch served on weekends.

1824 Merriman Road, Akron, 330-8659510 $$$ L, D, A, T Missing Falls Brewery Located in the historic BF Goodrich factory, Missing Falls Brewery is the latest addition to Akron’s craft brewery scene. Offering sixteen craft beers, a spacious taproom, an open brewery concept, and a family friendly environment in a turn of the century piece of Americana. Oh, did we mention artisan pizza too? 540 S. Main St., Suite 112, Akron, 234-231-1000 missingfalls.com $$ A Molly Brown’s Country Cafe Big breakfasts, South of the Border menu items and large portions. 518 Canton Road, Akron, 330-784-4711; 493 Portage Lakes Drive, Akron, 234-312-9351 $$ B, L, T Mustard Seed Market & Cafe Located on 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. Full bar, juice bar and espresso. Live music on weekends.

Sun. brunch. 3885 W. Market St., Montrose, 330-666-7333; 867 W. Market St., Akron, 330-434-7333 $$$ L, D, T Nepali Kitchen Authentic Nepali cuisine like paneer pakora alongside familiar Asian favorites like chicken curry and chow Mein. 399 E. Cuyahoga Falls Ave., Akron, 330-631-1112 $$$ L, D, W, T Niko’s Sandwich Board Cafe Fresh salads, small-batch soups made from scratch daily, handcrafted sandwiches. Menu includes several veggie, vegan and gluten-free selections. 1947 W. Market St., Suite 104, Akron, 330-794-5444 $$ L, D, T Oak and Embers Tavern Southern-style barbecue brisket, pork, ribs and chicken with signature drinks including the Devil’s Grandma and the Revolver. 7774 Darrow Road, Hudson, 234-602-1056 $$$ L, D, W, A, T The Oaks Lakeside Casual dining, fabulous ambiance in 1914 estate.

Outdoor dining and water views.

Banquet facility. 5878 Longacre Lane, Chippewa Lake, 330-769-2601 $$$$ D, A One Red Door Decadent menu featuring gourmet pizzas, share plates such as bacon-wrapped roasted dates and burgers. 49 Village Way, Hudson, 330342-3667 $$$$ L, D, A On Tap Grille & Bar Relaxed atmosphere, great gyros and Greek food. 3263

State Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-9220464; 2736 Medina Road, Medina, 330-725-1972 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Bear’s Italian Restaurant authentic, house-made Italian food. 4990 Dressler Road NW, Canton, 330-4930090 $$$ L, D, A, T Papa Gyros Greek Grill Authentic Greek fare. Greek wine and beer. 3939 Massillon Road, Green, 330-899-0707; 4760 Everhard Road, Canton, 330497-1100; 320 W. State St., Alliance, 330-823-7773; 2045 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, 330-456-9000; 1 N. Hawkins Ave., Akron, 330-247-2475 $$ L, D, A, T Papa Joe’s Iacomini’s Classy atmosphere, extensive wine list, fine Italian fare, seafood and steaks. 1561 Akron Peninsula Road, Akron, 330-923-7999 $$$ L, D, A, 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. Closed Sun. and Mon. 1707 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, 330745-9056 $$ L, D, A, T Rockne’s Pub Notorious for huge sandwiches and pub food at a great price. Try Rockne’s Terminator Sub with shaved beef, grill-seared and covered in cheese and fries, topped with lettuce, mayo and Rockne’s dressing on a buttered, grilled long bun. Children’s menu available. 7 Merriman Road, Akron, 330-762-7555; 1203 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-922-3663; 2914 W. Market St., Fairlawn, 330-836-7662; 1450 E. Main St., Kent, 330-677-0904; 155 Lincoln Way W, Massillon, 330-833-8800; 5000 Portage St., North Canton, 330244-4212; 4240 Hudson Drive, Stow, 330-922-9960; 9406 state Route 14, Streetsboro, 330-422-8010 $$ L, D, A, T Rubber City’s Remarkable Coffee & Cafe A full espresso menu, smoothies, grab and go house-made sandwiches, soups and pastries, including gluten-free options. Off-site catering available. Closed weekends. Canal Place, Bounce Innovation Hub building, 526 S. Main St., Akron, 234901-4334 $ B, L, 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 Serenite Restaurant Fine French dining includes oysters, shrimp cocktail, 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 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 Stricklands Frozen Custard Founded in 1936. Run by the third generation of the Strickland family. 1809 Triplett Blvd., Akron; 2629 Bailey Road, Cuyahoga Falls, 330-929-8498; 3465 S. Arlington Road, Green, 330-899-9477; 9070 state Route 14, Streetsboro, 330-626-2750 $ 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 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 $$ B, L, D, T Trecaso’s Mary Coyle Strong pasta selection. Six-time winner of Pasta Yule’s best red sauce. Highland Square spot known for several ice cream options. 780 W. Market St., Akron, 330-253-1511 $$ L, D, T The Twisted Olive Casual classic ItalianAmerican fare prepared in wood-fire ovens and on grills. Indoor and outdoor seating. 5430 Massillon Road, Green, 330-899-0550 $$$ 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 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 Wise Guys Lounge & Grill Located in the former Nick Anthe Restaurant, this spot, owned by Tom Procaccio, features steaks, seafood and pasta dishes. Closed Mon. & Sun. 1008 N. Main St., Akron, 330-922-3006 $$$$ L, D, A, T Please send any changes or corrections to kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com.

GOOD EATS UNCORKED

[ by Mike McKenney ]

Clean Slate Give Dry January a try and cut back on sugary booze.

With New Year’s resolutions pulling back from the gym as fewer have been going out, Dry January might get even bigger this year.

The movement is a monthlong challenge to give up alcohol altogether or swill low-alcohol or better-for-you drinks.

Reports show that 52 percent of adults who drink alcohol are either trying now or have tried before to reduce their alcohol intake, according to the International Wine and Spirits Record. As more have become curious about cutting back, there has been a rise in the release of nonalcoholic, lowalcohol and low-calorie wines.

Ease in with these Dry Januaryfriendly options in local stores.

LUMINARA, $19.99 If you are going completely dry for the challenge, Luminara is good to have on hand. From Trinchero Family Estates, which makes commercial Sutter Home wines, this brand is one of the first alcohol-removed wines from a Napa Valley, California, appellation. Let aromas and flavors from the lush fruit in the chardonnay and red blend impress you with Napa quality without the alcohol.

MIND & BODY, $11.99 For a subtle transition, try Mind & Body’s low-calorie, low-alcohol varietals, also made from grapes grown on Trinchero Family Estates in Napa Valley.

Winemakers utilize traditional techniques along with an innovative approach in which they remove some of the alcohol

from the wine while retaining the integrity of the flavors. The dealcoholized wine is blended with traditional wine for a lighter sip. With pinot grigio, rosé and cabernet sauvignon options, these bottles have only 90 calories, less than 9 percent alcohol content and no added sugar. They are also vegan friendly and gluten free, making for a glass that’s tasty and wholesome.

this brand focused on wine in its purest form. Avaline uses organic farming, so its grapes aren’t covered in harsh chemicals, and there are no artificial ingredients in the wines — just natural flavors. Varietals such as crisp white, light rosé and medium-bodied red are clean and delicious. With transparent ingredients, Avaline is satisfying while being free of unnecessary extras, maintaining high standards from vine to glass.

AVALINE, $17.99

Find these wines at Mustard Seed Market & Cafe, Fresh Thyme Farmers Market, Meijer and Target locations.

For those struggling to get on board with Dry January, perhaps try a healthier version for the month. While these wines still have standard alcohol contents, each bottle of Avaline has 125 or fewer calories and no additives. Actress Cameron Diaz and fashion entrepreneur Katherine Power founded

[ Mike McKenney is a manager at Heidelberg Distributing Co. ] Comments? Email them to Kelly Petryszyn [kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com]. .

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photos by Drzazga Photo // Haus of Cool pop-up wedding // Meagan and Tom Wheeler // Cuyahoga Valley National Park Happy Days Lodge

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BRIDAL GUIDE

by Kelly Petryszyn

our moment POP-UP WEDDINGS CUT STRESS AND PUT THE FOCUS BACK ON THE COUPLE.

J

IM AND CRYSTAL PLANNED A BLOWOUT WEDDING WITH A HUGE CEREMONY AND RECEPTION — BUT THEN 2020 HAPPENED. Like many betrothed couples, they canceled, erasing all of the effort they put toward planning. But they were hoping to start a family and just wanted to be married. As a last-ditch option, they booked a small, preplanned ceremony with Haus of Cool, Ohio’s first pop-up wedding company, and intended to have a large party later.

Following the brief ceremony at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in July, their minds changed.

“After, they canceled their 2021 wedding. Crystal and Jim said, This is what we wanted and never knew it’s what we needed,” says owner and founder Kattie Cool. “They had their intimate family, a crazy gorgeous wedding, got married and called it a day.”

Pop-up weddings have been around, but with many couples scrambling

in the coronavirus era, they have become a socially distanced way to get married in front of loved ones while still having the flowers, dress and other elements of traditional nuptials. Following a busy 2020, Cool is hosting pop-up weddings this May through December at the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Gather at the Lakes in Portage Lakes, and the Madison, Gordon Green and the rooftop Bar 32 at the Hilton, all in Cleveland.

She chats with us about how to determine if a popup wedding is right for you, how it works and how you can make it your own.

No Drama Small pop-up weddings seem built for the pandemic, but Cool says the need for an alternative has always been there. She launched the company in 2018 after struggling to meet her family’s big expectations while planning her wedding.

“I was done. I was tired of everyone dictating my wedding and how it should be,” Cool says. She got a $60 dress, signed up for a day of weddings performed by the justice of the peace on a snowy

Valentine’s in Sand Run Metro Park and said I do.

“We surprised 12 of our closest family members and friends, and the support was overwhelming,” she says.

She started Haus of Cool to help other couples reclaim their weddings. Too often weddings become about throwing a huge party for appearances, taking months to plan and running up a large bill. Pop-ups allow couples to leave the work to coordinators, shed expectations and just enjoy their big days.

“The focus is 100 percent on the couple — that’s the main purpose of any wedding,” Cool says. “You don’t have to worry and fight.”

A preplanned wedding doesn’t mean sacrificing your vision. Haus of Cool secures the big components: venues, dates and vendors, but couples can add customizations from the songs played to the vows.

“You’re not going to get bored over picking out colored napkins or those small details,” she says. “But you still have control over the most intimate part, which is the ceremony.”

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BRIDAL GUIDE

Impact of Small Having a tiny wedding can be a big adjustment.

Haus of Cool weddings have 10 to 45 guests and account for Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s coronavirus guidelines. Cutting the list is doable once you factor in only those you are closest to and let go of the need to include every acquaintance.

“The beautiful thing is the people they invite are the people that they talk to on a daily basis or see weekly,” Cool says. Those who still want to be a part of it might be able to view a Zoom of the wedding.

Having a pop-up wedding also means committing to a tight time frame. Couples choose from time slots and affordable packages that start with one-hour ceremo-

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nies. That encompasses getting ready on-site, seating guests, doing the ceremony and taking photos, but how you divide the time is up to you. Cool’s staffers run logistics, sanitize everything and enforce social distancing and mask guidelines.

Most couples host a small reception at someone’s house or a private room at a restaurant. But for those who don’t want to plan that, Cool also does micro weddings that are two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half hours and include a mini reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, a cake and music.

Each venue is pre-decorated, and Cool teases the look with a mood board.

With unknowns looming, Her style leans toward boho. pop-ups are a stress-free way For example, past park certo have a beautiful wedding. emonies were performed “People worry about being in front of blush and tulle judged for doing something streamers hanging from nontraditional.

But once a leafy tree, a rustic tree you let go, it’s smooth branch arch decorated with sailing,” Cool says. “That’s flowers and a cream tent the best thing you could with geometric wooden ask for any couple who’s columns and greenery. She engaged — having time to also provides bouquets and focus on you two.” boutonnieres to match.

“Our weddings are shareworthy photos,” Cool says.

“You’re not going to miss that.”

For more info, visit hausofcool.us.

BRIDAL GUIDE

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BRIDAL GUIDE

Make your event Hist ic...

Glenmoor Country Club & Resort

Indoor and Outdoor locations to accomodate any size event.

Call us today to start planning your dream wedding!

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Hale Farm & Village Make your special day historic. Hale Farm & Village is Ohio’s premier living history museum, nestled in the picturesque heart of the Cuyahoga Valley. Choose from a variety of indoor and outdoor options to create your wedding memories. From our rustic century barns and beautiful gardens to our more modern Gatehouse, we can accommodate all sizes and styles

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Rental options include: •Modern climate-controlled banquet space available year-round •Rustic pavilion overlooking the historic village •1800s barns offering vintage charm for ceremonies and small events •Greek Revival white chapel holding up to 180 guests for ceremonies •Lush landscapes framing outdoor weddings and tented receptions Our staff is dedicated to helping every couple have a safe and beautiful wedding day. Contact our team at 330-666-3711, ext. 1712 or halerentals@wrhs.org.

As Northeast Ohio’s premier wedding destination getaway, Glenmoor Country Club & Resort is prepared to make all your bridal dreams come true. From arrival to departure, everything you need is in one location. Our staff is specialized in planning a wedding weekend that you and your guests will remember forever.

This historic clubhouse boasts two distinctive ballrooms and outdoor spaces, each offering a one-of-a-kind experience. The signature chapel will take your breath away with vaulted ceilings and ornate windows, making it a truly unique venue. The traditional Turnberry Room offers simple elegance for a fun and festive or formal and classic affair.

Our tranquil grounds are meticulously manicured and provide an amazing outdoor venue for your ceremony or reception that is perfect for wedding photos.

Glenmoor is the ultimate destination for a celebratory wedding weekend. Let the castle-like ambience in our historic clubhouse be the backdrop for the most important weekend of your life.

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2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath 330-666-3711, ext. 1712

4191 Glenmoor Road NW, Canton 330-966-3600

wedding rush The altar might be getting closer for lovebirds who canceled their big days. Weddings will likely pick back up in May as more people get vaccinated and confidence strengthens, says Jeff Kline, owner of Robert J. Events and Catering. “We’re trying to make it as seamless as possible to move that to the new date,” Kline says.

With pent-up demand, the time for planning is now. Here are a few pointers to consider.

Think Different: With many postponements, venues may be running out of availability for the late fall and into next year — especially open-air spots. So think outside of the box. “We’re seeing a lot of people that are starting to look not necessarily at a venue but maybe do it in their own backyard or under a tent,” Kline says.

Act Fast: If your date is set, finalize contracts with photographers, DJs and caterers as soon as possible.

“They have limits as to how many weddings or how many guests they’re able to handle on a weekend,” he says. Be sure to review cancellation policies. Although many are modifying how they hold contracts during the pandemic, Kline says, you might lose nonrefundable deposits if you switch dates.

Give Notice: If you aren’t comfortable with the state of the pandemic as the day nears, immediately tell your vendors you want to postpone or cancel. The sooner you do, the likelier they can return payments or reschedule you. “Let them know … you’re not comfortable with the way COVID has gone,” Kline says. “Be honest, and then we can do the best that we can to make things right.”

BRIDAL GUIDE

Be Safe Know state, county and city guidelines.

Masks, hand sanitizer and social distancing will likely still be advised. Some vendors have their own guidelines, too, such as wearing gloves and setting up Plexiglas dividers.

“Sometimes [county guidelines] have a little more things that you need to do in order to make your reception happen,” says Jeff Kline, owner of Robert J. Events and Catering.

Tighten your guest list. Your venue might need to stay under capacity to make room for spacing out tables. “You still have to take into consideration social distancing,” Kline says.

Factor in placement. Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s guidelines require no more than 10 people within a family be at a table during receptions, so carefully adapt the seating chart. “Make sure that the right people were set at the right table, so they kept households together,” Kline says. Also be prepared for the absence of self-serve buffets and self-serve bars.

For more info on Responsible RestartOhio guidelines, visit coronavirus.ohio.gov.

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BRIDAL GUIDE

by Zaria Johnson, Kelly Petryszyn and Alexandra Sobczak

love finds a way SPONTANEOUS NUPTIALS SAVE THE DAY

Having a wedding is possible despite today’s obstacles. From a brewery to a park lodge, these couples opted for creative pop-up ceremonies.

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BRIDAL GUIDE

Adrianne + Carlos Johnson photographer: Rosemarie Tylicki Darling Rose Photography darlingrosephoto.com

Adrianne Johnson and Carlos Johnson saying I do was more than a decade coming. In 2010, they were both freshmen at Miami University, and Adrianne’s family was helping her move into her dorm. Carlos knew Adrianne’s roommate, so he stopped by to say hi.

It was then that he knew she was the one.

“I saw her and I was like, Wow,” he says. “She probably didn’t know it at that point, but I do.”

The Solon residents began seriously dating three years later, and they’ve been together since. The day after Christmas in 2019, Carlos proposed to an ecstatic Adrianne during a family photo shoot. “You just get comfortable with someone every day and you’re just like, I can do this forever,” she says.

Surrounded by 16 loved ones on Nov. 7, they tied the knot in a Haus of Cool pop-up ceremony at Happy Days Lodge in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and celebrated with a small reception at Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse in Beachwood.

From the Bride Seasonal Affair: We got lucky because it was Nov. 7, and it was 70 degrees and sunny, so we were able to have our wedding outside. … Fall is my favorite season. The leaves were turning, and you could see that coming through in the pictures. It matched my bouquet perfectly.

Lucky Pick: I didn’t go trying on dresses, because I had two months to find a dress. I wanted something white, off the shoulder [and] fitted. I was just searching online. I took a gamble and ordered a

dress. … I loved it when I put it on. I added the belt and veil to make it a little more formal and give the whole “here comes the bride” kind of thing.

Perfect Playlist: I walked down the aisle to John Legend’s “So High,” and then after the officiant announced us husband and wife, we played Michael Jackson’s “Remember the Time.” ... We thought “Remember the Time” kind of fit, ‘cause we’ve known each other for so long.

No More Waiting: It’s really uncertain about what the future is gonna look like. It was either do this smaller wedding or wait another year or two. … Bigger wasn’t our thing. We wanted to get married and just celebrate. … The most memorable part was having everybody together to see us get married, ‘cause

we’ve been together for a long time. So to have our closest friends and family there to celebrate with us was great.

From the Groom Favorites Game: We chose the music, the cake flavor … how you want to do the ceremony. But we kept it traditional. ... [Did we] put the cake in each other’s face? No. [laughs] We didn’t do that tradition, I guess.

First Glance: It was a good memory. She came out, down the aisle, and she was looking really, really stunning.

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BRIDAL GUIDE

Mindy + Scott Miller photographer: Brittaney Huff Britt Huff Photography britthuffphotography.com

A picture of alpacas set Mindy Hiner and Scott Miller’s wedding date in stone before there was even a ring on her f inger. A family friend sent them a link to pop-up wedding company Haus of Cool with event photos featuring the fuzzy animals — Mindy’s favorite — and it was everything the Massillon couple envisioned. “We talked about a wedding but never put anything into motion,” Scott says. “I’m like, Go ahead and book it. I should probably get a ring, huh? We do everything backward.”

That laid-back approach fits the duo who met on Bumble, quickly felt a love connection and have a 10-year-old son, Kayden. After booking the wedding in May, Scott proposed to Mindy — with a ring — on a low-key June afternoon hanging out with their dogs, Skyy and Soujella, in their backyard. On Halloween 2020, the pair of beer connoisseurs made it official in front of 40 close friends and family members with a ceremony at R. Shea Brewing in Canal Place and a reception at 797 Residence & Suites in Akron featuring appetizers, dancing and drinks.

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From the Groom Into the Woods: You walked through the spooky forest in the basement of R. Shea, fog machine running. She had a live orchestra duo playing eerie music. It was dark and spooky — the opposite of the big church in bright light. [It] wasn’t a cookie-cutter wedding.

What’s This? We wanted vows that are nontraditional.

The first thing that came to mind was the “Corpse Bride,” which is [a counterpart] to “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Because it was a Halloween wedding, it fit. A couple of friends caught on to it. Most of our older relatives, it was over their heads.

The Walk: It was breathtaking. They had her way back from where we were. She went underneath string lights, all of that before she got to the aisle. There was a ton of suspense and anticipation because of how long the walk was.

From the Bride Through Her Eyes: My son walked me down the aisle to “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri. They played the violin and cello. It was beautiful. [I was] pregnant as well, so I was very emotional.

That experience, with him walking me down the aisle, I’ll never forget.

Finally: One of my dreams [was] to get married with alpacas. I had a serious obsession with them. After the ceremony, we took our son and our flower girl out.

We got to feed them, got some pictures. It was pretty cool. That was my first experience around them.

No Planning is the Plan: I’m kind of a perfectionist. I would have been very stressed out, honestly. Walking in and seeing everything Kattie put together … and knowing it’s your wedding day, it’s an amazing feeling. You didn’t have to worry. I wouldn’t change anything.

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BRIDAL GUIDE

Nichelle + Keith Lewis photographer: Nikki Moore J+N Photography jplusnphotography.com

College sweethearts Nichelle Travis and Keith Lewis dreamt of a destination wedding that would bring their longdistance relatives to one place. But after Keith proposed on Thanksgiving 2019 in front of family and friends, travel became out of the question with the coronavirus.

So they set their sights on another wish: They wanted to be married on July 18 or July 21, the days before and after their parents were married. Nichelle happened to see a TV ad for Haus of Cool pop-up weddings, and when she found an opening for July 18, it felt meant to be.

Nichelle and Keith were married in a traditional outdoor ceremony at Happy Days Lodge in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, officiated by Nichelle’s cousin, before their parents, siblings, close friends and their 12-year-old daughter, Kaylin.

They celebrated with an intimate reception at Second Stage Events in Woodmere.

From the Bride Faith First: The must-have for us was we wanted [the ceremony] to be very Christcentered because that is important in both of our lives. That’s been something that’s been a constant in our relationship. So, saying the traditional vows before God was one of the things that we both required in our ceremony. It was traditional, but then it had a couple of unique angles.

Family Values: When my husband and I bought our wedding bands, he decided that he wanted to get a ring for our daughter. After we exchanged our vows, my cousin had my daughter come up and we, in a sense, exchanged vows with our daughter and said, With this ring, we thee parent, [and] we made a commitment to parent to the best of our ability.

Here She Comes: My husband is not a very emotional person. He did cry. It let me know that he was excited about the day. Just seeing the reaction on his face let me know that he was happy.

Outfit Change: My mom picked out my dress. When I put it on, I wasn’t like 100 percent sold, and then we added the bling to it. ... I had a moment where I got teary-

eyed, and I was like, OK, yeah, maybe this is my dress.

Heartfelt Lyrics: The song that we left to after we were married was something both of us liked. … [It’s] called “The Matrimony” by Wale. It speaks to the challenges that you have in a relationship, and then you get to this point where you’re getting married and starting a new challenge because you’re starting a whole new walk of life. It is a song both my husband and I really enjoy. The words resonate with both of us.

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EDUCATION

[ by Molly Heideman, Zaria Johnson, Kelly Petryszyn and Alexandra Sobczak ]

Pep Squad Educators go the extra mile to bring remote and in-school students together and brighten their days.

OUR LADY OF THE ELMS Students at the Elms Farm

Each school day, some Our Lady of the Elms students check the school’s pink chicken coop for new eggs to collect. The students then wash the eggs to ready them for sale at the school. It’s been a regular task for science teacher Diana Ross’ sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade girls yearround. It allows them to bond while social distancing.

“They love to get outside,” says Ross, who also teaches sixth-grade English language arts. “It’s a lifesaver for them 44

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to be able to do something that seems normal. When they come back, they’re all very chatty and happy.”

The farm is a part of a middle school academy program Ross helped start in 2017, and a lot of the farm work is incorporated into the science and math curricula. In the fall, the girls also spent a lot of time tending to raised garden beds and harvesting tomatoes, cucumbers, green beans and a variety of peppers and herbs. Ross’ students discuss recipes and animal care, along with managing the farm’s budget. It helps girls develop their problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

For example, Ross uses questions remote and in-person students bring up as an opportunity for a science lesson. “A lot of the girls had no idea that [the chickens] make an egg every day that’s not fertilized. They think that when they eat the egg, they’re eating what would have been a baby chicken,” she says.

She teaches a lesson about how the eggs the chickens produce can’t develop baby chickens without proper fertilization from a rooster. That also opens up a discussion about human genetics.

The winter months are spent prepping for crops Ross and

her students will plant this spring. They are tackling the topic of pollination to find out why some crops, like zucchini, which usually produces an abundance in the summer and fall, didn’t produce fruit last season. And they are working to determine if beekeeping might aid in the process.

Throughout all of it, the girls are continuing to work together to take care of the chickens.

“The first day that we found an egg I thought they were going to lose their minds,” Ross says.

“They were so excited.”

EDUCATION

SETON CATHOLIC SCHOOL

St. Hilary School The Future Begins Here E N V I S I O N I N G

Teachers and students are big on spirit at Seton Catholic School. They go all out for holidays, dress up for theme days and celebrate birthdays.

When the coronavirus shut schools down last March, the festivities kept going.

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E N G A G I N G

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E M P O W E R I N G

Leading the way to the future through faith and service, traditional and innovative teaching methods, cutting-edge science and technology facilities and equipment, three foreign languages, career exploration courses, enrichment and extracurricular opportunities, and much more REGISTRATION FOR 2021-2022 OPEN HOUSE - VIRTUAL STYLE! February 1-5, 2021 | BY APPOINTMENT ONLY ALL K-8 FAMILIES ARE INVITED TO EXPLORE OUR SCHOOL SAFELY IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME! For new students entering grades K-8 Age 5 by September 30, 2021 Please call 330-867-8720, ext. 343 or email Please call 330-867-8720, ext. 343 or email dsinopoli@st-hilary.org by January 15, 2021 to learn more dsinopoli@st-hilary.org by January 15, 2021 to schedule

To salute her students’ birthdays, kindergarten teacher Mary Ann Love, her teaching assistant and the students’ families piled into separate cars adorned with decorated signs, waved and honked horns.

“It was quite a parade at times. It was very fun for them,” Love says. “It was the best that we could do for a makeshift birthday celebration.”

During lockdown, Love took her students places virtually. In an online field trip to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, they observed animals and learned a zoo-themed lesson. Love and her teaching assistant also delivered individual porch packets and supplies, so students could have more learning tools at home.

When students returned in person in August, masked teachers and families displayed fanfare with balloons, ribbons and Welcome! signs.

With most of her 23 students in person and some remote, Love found new ways to engage them. When the weather was good, Love and her students took camp chairs and sat outside to draw or write and went to Hudson Springs Park for leaf studies.

“These kind of give us a bit of a different perspective,” Love says.

To closer connect virtual students, Love wheels carts with computers displaying online students’ videos wherever the in-person students go. For a fashion show on the school’s stage, both inperson and livestreamed remote learners wore a paper bag vest inspired by a letter in the alphabet and “walked” the red carpet to show off their creations.

Around the clock, her 5- and 6-year-old students have been able to follow social distancing guidelines and keep their spirits up.

“We’re so happy that we are able to be here,” Love says. “The children having to stay distanced and having to wear masks all day — they are doing an amazing job. They are so resilient in whatever we ask them to do.”

Serving a range of learners in grades K-8 | Over $150,000 in tuition assistance awarded annually 529 plan funds may potentially be used toward tuition

Comprehensive Preparation for a Complex World 645 Moorfield Road, Fairlawn | 330-867-8720, ext. 343 | st-hilaryschool.org CELEBRATING 60 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN CATHOLIC EDUCATION

Open House

Thursday

January 28 5:00 - 7:30 PM ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

BIBLICAL W ORLDVIEW

CHRISTIAN C HARACTER

Please register to attend Lake Center Christian School’s Community Open House at www.lccs.com.

DIVERSITY

S ERVICE TO CHRIST

Come and Experience our Unique Campus!

• Tours for Pre-Kindergarten through 12th Grade.

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• Learn more about our many co-curriculars.

• Talk to our students about their experiences.

• Meet our Faculty and Staff.

12893 Kaufman Ave. NW * Hartville, OH 44632 * 330.877.2049 * www.lccs.com

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EDUCATION

ST. HILARY SCHOOL Lunch is typically a time when students get away from the classroom and connect with friends. But as a coronavirus precaution, it’s in the classroom at St. Hilary School.

Seventh-grade English language arts teacher Sean Gadus makes it more interesting for students with fun activities like movie days.

Students discuss and vote for a movie to watch on Disney+.

Once, the students debated between the animated and live-action Aladdin movies. It was an eight-on-eight tie, and he enjoyed hearing students’ opinions.

“There’s a lot of stress. So giving them a release, a way to kind of funnel that or forget about that for a while, I think was really

important,” he says.

Gadus enjoys how these lunches have helped him learn more about students.

“We watched the Phineas and Ferb movie, and I had no idea what that was. It was nice to see something that they were really interested in,” he says. “We spent a lot of time building relationships this year with students.”

He also occasionally leads Kahoot trivia games at the end of the school day so students can compete and stay socially distanced in their desks that are 6 feet apart. Sometimes, the winner gets to choose the next topic, and it can be educational, too.

One student interested in geography chose African countries.

“They need social time,” Gadus says, “and also it’s a way to get them to stay in their seats.”

Sean Se Sea an Ga G ad us tteach eachiin each i ng

To make sure the remote students working on iPads at home feel included, Gadus pairs them with in-person students during class discussions. Both groups of students also participate in exciting schoolwide activities such as themed dress-down days, a

pumpkin decorating contest and a door decorating contest.

“Something outside of the normal school curriculum I think is good for them,” Gadus says.

“They have a camaraderie.”

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EDUCATION LET TERS FROM THE MAIN OFFICE

LAKE CENTER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Lake Center Christian School assists Christian families and their Churches in equipping students for lifelong learning and service to Christ. The school offers an accredited pre-K to 12th-grade education, which is centered in Jesus Christ.

FROM SUPERINTENDENT JOSEPH BEESON:

One of Lake Center Christian School’s core values is having a biblical worldview. The school handles COVID-19 the same way the church throughout history has handled crises — with faith God has a plan, with a firm assurance there are no accidents with God and with a belief God loves us and is working everything out for our good. As a result, our school has continued to operate in a manner that is obedient to local authorities, mindful of the importance of not spreading a virus out of love for others and support for our families who want their children in school.

School began in August with necessary precautions. Throughout the first semester, various faculty, staff and students tested positive for COVID-19. In response, the school went to remote attendance for secondary students for a 10-day stretch and lengthened Thanksgiving break.

Contact tracing indicated the cases we saw were brought into the school from the community, and there has been no spread among students.

The school’s faculty and staff have shown resilience, flexibility, understanding and patience. The athletic department has rescheduled some events, but overall, teams have been able to complete their seasons.

As winter progresses, we will continue to operate as people who not only believe God is in control but who also live like God is in control.

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EDUCATION

IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY SCHOOL

ST. VINCENT-ST. MARY HIGH SCHOOL

Jennifer Conti had one week to transition the Immaculate Heart of Mary School into distance learning in March 2020.

“At first, it was a little bit of panic. Then it was, Let’s get everybody what they need,” says the technology integration specialist.

“We were lucky to have a little bit of time.”

Some may consider having a week to overhaul an education model less than lucky, but Conti immediately stepped up.

She helped teachers troubleshoot remote technology and assured that students had at-home devices and internet.

Parents expressed concern about the huge jump in screen time, so Conti created minute guidelines for teachers to follow.

Marian Shoemaker

As St. Vincent-St. Mary High School first switched to virtual learning last spring, intervention specialist Marian Shoemaker knew constant communication with the students she assists in English and science classes was most important. Her students have dyslexia, autism or learning disabilities, and being remote presented challenges. Routine and guidance are helpful, so Shoemaker held office hours over Google Meet and was surprised by how many students logged on.

“I would have kids that would come on for the entire time. They didn’t need work help. They just wanted to talk,” says the department chair of intervention services.

“They missed that social 48

interaction. For so many, that’s an important piece to their disability.”

One senior attended almost every session. “It was really tough for her. The college application process was very stressful. Just that impending We don’t know what’s gonna happen, but things are gonna change,” she says. “Students have a lot of anxieties, and those can snowball if we don’t take care of them and let them talk it out.”

The students Shoemaker helps have individual education plan goals, and that senior was working on writing and reading comprehension. She got Shoemaker’s input on her college applications essay.

“We have her presenting her screen. I would be editing the essay. We would be talking,” Shoemaker says.

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Since the fall, most of the students with IEPs are back in person, but a few

remain remote. They join Shoemaker and her colleagues for study halls to work on their goals and check in when they are getting behind or need help on an assignment. Typically, intervention specialists work with a student side by side, but now they wear a mask and use a whiteboard from 6 feet away.

“It’s hard to read facial expressions as it is.

Students, especially students with autism, have a difficult time with that,” Shoemaker says. “I’m being way more animated with my eyes and eyebrows.”

With intervention specialists’ guidance, students have learned how to stay on track and better adapt to the continuous changes.

“Giving each other grace and having that open communication,” Shoemaker says, “has been pivotal to get through this tough time.”

“We tried to limit as much as we could,” she says, “based on … parameters set forth by different agencies.”

After a couple of weeks, Conti realized it was difficult to fit work for both core and elective classes within those time slots, so she created a secure website for teachers’ extra activities.

“It really did evolve … day by day and week by week,” Conti says. “We had to just keep adjusting it.”

For the 2020-2021 school year, most students are learning in person and some remain remote. Teachers are using Google Meet, and thanks to parents’ donations, they now have two monitors in their classrooms — one for lessons and the other for livestreams of remote students.

“Teachers can see students, share screens, raise hands, pin a student,” Conti says. Both groups of students can also participate via platforms like digital interactive flash cards and digital math tools.

Despite the challenges, she has seen the tech-based hybrid model spark fresh interest in learning.

“It can level up that engagement for the students,” Conti says. “It can add a little bit of excitement. There’s a newness to it.”

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:

When schools were forced to close last March, many took time to determine a plan, but St. Hilary School immediately shifted to remote learning. When planning began for the safe reopening of schools in the fall, as St. Hilary School’s principal, I was an integral part of the Diocese of Cleveland’s Transitioning Forward Task Force. Armed with information from that endeavor, and with guidance from our school’s COVID-19 Task Force, administrative decisions were made in late spring to prepare for the 20202021 school year. Vital sanitizing supplies and technology were ordered early on. A dedicated space was carved out to create a second clinic for those who might display COVID-19 symptoms.

The majority of furniture was removed from classrooms to ensure social distancing. Daily operations, such as temperature checking on arrival, preparation of individually bagged school lunches, staggered dismissal and more, were modified or added. I began consulting with Summit County Public Health last spring and continue to work closely with SCPH to contact trace and follow COVID-19 protocols.

Teachers participated in extensive professional development during the summer to bolster their ability to teach simultaneously to students in classrooms as well as online using Google Classroom and Zoom. Our teachers go the extra mile to incorporate distance learners into the daily classroom routine, make sure they have needed materials and let them socialize with their inperson classmates. Through this team effort, St. Hilary School has remained #SaberStrong, open for learning and keeping our faith at the forefront.

ST. VINCENT-ST. MARY HIGH SCHOOL

ST. SEBASTIAN PARISH SCHOOL

We are a four-year, coeducational, college preparatory and Marianistsponsored Catholic high school.

We have been an integral part of the Akron community for over 100 years, providing quality education rooted in the Catholic faith. We are the only STEM-designated Catholic high school in Ohio.

Our mission is to provide wellrounded spiritual, academic, emotional and physical development for our students.

Educating students from preschool through eighth grade, St. Sebastian Parish School offers a robust curriculum, high teacher retention, excellent academic scores and an impressive percentage of students who continue, even after graduation, to reflect the confidence and values developed during their years at our school. Our focus is on the directive outlined in our mission statement of “excellence in education and commitment to Christ.” While our Christcentered approach is our focus, our STEM designation from the state of Ohio puts our school at the forefront of education.

FROM DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS ANTHONY BOARMAN:

Students, staff and alumni often describe our community as a “family.”

We pride ourselves on offering a wide range of academic and extracurricular options for a student body whose individuality, diversity and academic success is celebrated and supported.

We offer College Credit Plus, Advanced Placement, honors and college prep-level courses as well as intervention services. We have nationally recognized extracurriculars, including NASA Student Launch and Model United Nations teams. Our students also excel in the arts, including marching band, the Leprechaun Theatre Guild, art club and choirs. Our athletic success is unrivaled in Ohio.

Over 65 percent of our student body competes in at least one of our 26 sports. In 2019, the overall GPA of all student athletes was an impressive 3.3.

This fall, we launched our House System, a strategic plan created to enhance the overall student experience. It allows students to individually develop in their faith, leadership, community and service. It establishes new opportunities for the growth and formation of relationships with peers across grade levels, which innately increases a student’s sense of identity and belonging. Learn more at stvm.com/housesystem.

FROM PRINCIPAL ANTHONY ROHR:

Over the summer, the school’s administration developed a safety plan allowing students to return to school full time. For students who chose to learn remotely, the school invested in HoverCams for every classroom. These document cameras allow teachers to be visible to students at home while teaching lessons, doing science experiments, showing work with math manipulatives and sharing worksheets. The school also completed its Classroom Improvement Initiative. New built-in storage units were installed in all classrooms for first through fifth grades, along with new lockers for first through third and additional lockers for fourth through sixth grades. New contemporary desks were purchased for first through eighth grades that provide a larger workspace for each student, as well as the ability for teachers to arrange desks for enhanced student collaboration. New swivel chairs were also purchased, which are more comfortable for students.

To tour the school and see how the students are flourishing, call 330-8369107 or visit stsebastian.org/school.

Help us build our “House” and become part of our family!

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EDUCATION

Private Schools

BY THE NUMBERS SCHOOL NAME

Class Size

Teacherto-Student Ratio

Graduation Rate

Tuition

Pre-K (half or full days):

Lake Center Christian School

25

1:12

100%

(Pre-K to 12th Grade)

$3,130-$6,900 K-12: $7,600-$9,450 (Financial aid and scholarships available)

Open House Dates

Jan. 28, 5-7:30 p.m.

Year-round in-person and virtual tours or shadow visits by request

Virtual Open Houses

Our Lady of the Elms

15

1:8

100%

(Preschool to 12th Grade)

Spring Garden Waldorf School

(K to 8th Grade)

St. Sebastian Parish School

(9th to 12th Grade)

50

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Kindergarten:

Jan. 15, noon-1 p.m.

$3,738-$9,450

Jan. 7 & Feb. 10, 9 a.m.

1:18

100%

(financial aid and EdChoice scholarships available)

20

1:20

100%

$4,235-$6,360

Tours year-round by appointment

Virtual Open Houses Tours year-round by appointment

Virtual tours available

Virtual Open House

18

1:18

100%

(Preschool to 8th Grade)

St. Vincent-St. Mary High School

Jan. 8 & 22, noon-1 p.m.

(financial aid and scholarships available)

18

(Preschool to 8th Grade)

St. Hilary School

$6,500-$11,950

20

1:12

100%

$3,995-$6,025 (financial aid and scholarships available)

$11,750

Jan. 31, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Tours year-round by appointment

March 24, 6-7:30 p.m.

In-person and virtual tours year-round by appointment

PARTING SHOT

[ Photo cour tesy of Summit Memory/Akron-Summit County Public Library ]

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Learning Curve Tallmadge, 1919

Over a century ago, fifth- and sixth-grade students crammed into their Tallmadge classroom for this photo — a stark difference from school today. When Ohio became a state in 1803, most children were taught at home. The few schools that operated were private and had tuition, which could be paid in cured meats, potatoes or grains. Tallmadge committed to education early on, and in 1815, it had a two-level

building with a district school and the elite Tallmadge Academy, then considered the highest education in the area. By 1830, the city had a school at each of its six corners, its center and each straight road out of town, and by 1915, it had a centralized public school system and horse-drawn wagons to “bus” in students. Today, fifth- and sixthgraders are taught in separate public school buildings and sit 6 feet apart.

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