64
Lawrence Magazine
winter 2012
For supper, walk over to East Fourth Street, to the Greenhouse Tavern, known for farm-fresh food and a menu that changes every few weeks. The Foie Gras Steamed Clams (a steal at $6) are yummy, especially soaking up the broth with a crusty baguette. Its Cleveland Greenhouse Salad features a chunk of cabrales picante blue cheese and pine nut bread crumbs … oh, heck, it’s all good. If weather permits, dine outside so you can be part of the Fourth Street party, or finish off the meal with a drink on the Greenhouse’s rooftop bar. Other fine East Fourth Street restaurants include Saigon (upscale Vietnamese) and Lola, by celebrity Iron Chef Michael Symon. Still ready to party? See a live comedy show at Pickwick & Frolic or a band that appeals at the House of Blues, or a play at one of the theaters on PlayhouseSquare. Day Two: Rise early because you’re headed for the West Side Market (open Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday only). Grab the train (heading west, of course) at Tower City and exit at the first stop. West Side is the heart of Cleveland’s Ohio City neighborhood, once teeming with immigrants, and the market celebrated its 100-year anniversary in 2012. With approximately 180 stands (meat, seafood, dairy, bakeries, fruit, vegetables and
journey journey
more), the market vendors reflect a range of culinary traditions: Czuchraj Meats is across from Wiencek’s Poultry, Turczyk’s next to Frickaccio’s, Edw. Badstuber & Son by Nonno Joe’s Deli. Locals have their favorite vendors that their families have gone to for decades. Choose a pastry (this is much harder than it sounds) and head for the front of the building, climb the corner stairwell, then enjoy your snack from the balcony overlooking the market below. Then take an hour, or two, and explore the Ohio City neighborhood, with boutiques, cafes, trendy breweries and Ohio City Farm (a truly urban farm). One the way back to the station, if you aren’t stuffed from snacking, stop at the cozy and famous West Side Market Café, where eggs, home fries and toast will run you $3.50, or split an $8 Eggs Benedict or WSM omelette with mushroom, bacon, spinach and feta. Back downtown, hop on a bus (or walk) to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Peruse the history and memorabilia (they have my sheepskin jacket from 1973) and make time to just sit and listen to the music because, really, it’s all about the music. Time to eat … again. After a respite at your hotel, walk over to the Warehouse District and stroll around until you find a restaurant you cannot resist. D’Vine Wine Bar has over 60 wines by the glass—and dynamite tapas. On the way back, stop off at the