10 Foods Cleveland is Known For
Cleveland is a city located in the northeastern United States, within the state of Ohio. The city is located on the southern shore of Lake Erie, about 60 miles (100 kilometers) west of the Pennsylvania-Ohio border. Cuyahoga County is Ohio’s most populous county and its seat is Chardon. It is the major city of the Greater Cleveland metropolitan area, the largest metropolitan area in Ohio, and the 15th-largest in the United States. Cleveland is known for its major landmarks, sports teams, and food. Some of the foods that Cleveland is known for include:
1. Polish Boy
A Polish Boy is a sandwich that originated in Cleveland. According to Tripsavvy, it consists of a kielbasa sausage on a bun, topped with french fries, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce or hot sauce. This type of food is often seen at Cleveland Indians baseball games, as well as other sporting events. It is also a popular menu item at many of the city’s restaurants and food trucks. You can serve this sandwich with a side of pickles or sauerkraut.
2. Pierogis
Pierogis are a type of dumpling that is popular in Polish cuisine. They are typically made with a flour and water dough that is boiled, then filled with a variety of fillings including potatoes, cheese, sauerkraut, meat, or fruit. Pierogis can be served fried or baked, and are often served with sour cream or butter. Cleveland is home to a large Polish population, and as such, pierogis are a popular food in the city. When it comes to pierogis, there are a few places in Cleveland that are known for serving up some of the best. Sokolowski’s University Inn is one such spot, and they’ve been serving homemade pierogis since 1923. Another great option is Pierogi Palace, where you can choose from over 30 different types of pierogis. If you’re looking to try something a little bit different, then you might want to check out the pierogi pizza at Bar Cento. According to The World, this unique dish combines two of Cleveland’s favorite foods, and it’s sure to satisfy your hunger.
3. Corned Beef Sandwiches
Corned beef sandwiches are a type of sandwich that is popular in Cleveland. Corned beef is a type of beef that is preserved in a brine (saltwater) solution and then typically boiled or baked. The beef is then thinly sliced and served on bread, often with mustard, pickles, and/or cabbage. Cleveland is home to a large number of delis, and as such, corned beef sandwiches are a popular food in the city. There are a few delis in Cleveland that are particularly well-known for their corned beef sandwiches, including Slyman’s and Jack Cleveland Casino’s Reuben’s Deli. If you’re looking for a more unique take on the corned beef sandwich, then you might want to check out the one at Publican Tavern. This sandwich comes with house-made corned beef, sauerkraut, and thousand island dressing on marble rye bread.
4. Mustard
Mustard is a condiment that is made from the seeds of the mustard plant. The mustard plant is a member of the cabbage family and is native to the Mediterranean region. Mustard seeds are ground and mixed with water, vinegar, or other liquids to create a paste or sauce. Mustard is used as a condiment on sandwiches, hot dogs, hamburgers, and other cooked meats. It is also used as an ingredient in many salads and sauces. Mustard is a source of vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron.
5. Sfogliatelle
Sfogliatelle is a type of Italian pastry that originated in Campania. They are also sometimes known as lobster tails or cream puffs. The dough is made from semolina flour, water, and oil, and is rolled into thin sheets. The filling is usually made from ricotta cheese, sugar, eggs, and candied fruit. The dough is then wrapped around the filling, formed into a shell shape, and deep-fried. Sfogliatelle is a popular pastry in Cleveland and can be found at many bakeries and restaurants. Jack Frost Donuts is one of the most well-known places to get them, and their sfogliatelle is made fresh daily.
6. Fried Perch
Fried perch is a popular dish in Cleveland, and the city is known for its many restaurants that serve this dish. The perch is a freshwater fish that is breaded and fried and served with tartar sauce or lemon. Many of the city’s restaurants serve fried perch that is caught from Lake Erie, and the dish is often served with french fries or coleslaw.
7. Slyman’s Corned Beef sandwiches
Slyman’s is a Cleveland institution, known for its delicious corned beef sandwiches. The sandwich shop has been around for over 50 years and is beloved by locals for its tasty sandwiches. The secret to Slyman’s success is its slow-cooked corned beef, which is juicy and flavorful. The sandwiches are served on fresh-baked rye bread and topped with Slyman’s secret sauce. If you’re looking for a delicious sandwich in Cleveland, Slyman’s is the place to go.
8. Jack Frost Donuts
Jack Frost Donuts is a Cleveland institution. The donuts are made fresh daily and are known for their light, fluffy texture. The shop also offers a variety of other pastries, including cinnamon rolls and cookies. According to Only In Your State, this iconic donut shop has been featured on Food Network’s “The Best Thing I Ever Ate” and Travel Channel’s “Man v. Food.” Jack Frost Donuts is located in the Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland and is open 24 hours a day.
9. A bratwurst sandwich from Frank’s
Frank’s is a local favorite when it comes to bratwurst sandwiches. The sausage is grilled to perfection and served on a fresh bun with your choice of toppings. It’s the perfect meal to enjoy on a warm day. Mostly known for their hot dogs, Frank’s also does a great job at grilling up some of the best bratwurst sandwiches in town. The secret to their success is in the sausage, which is made with a special blend of spices and then grilled to perfection. If you’re looking for a delicious bratwurst sandwich in Cleveland, be sure to stop by Frank’s!
10. Gyros from Steve’s
Steve’s is another local favorite for gyros. The meat is juicy and flavorful, and the pita is nice and fluffy. It’s the perfect lunch or dinner option when you’re looking for something hearty and filling. This food truck has become so popular that they now have a brick-and-mortar location on the west side of Cleveland. If you’re in the mood for some delicious Greek food, make sure to check out Steve’s Gyros. It is well known for its gyros, but they also offer a variety of other Greek dishes like spanakopita and dolma. So if you’re looking to branch out and try something new, Steve’s is the place to go.
Conclusion
Cleveland is known for many things, but its food scene is one of the highlights. From Polish boys to sfogliatelle, there’s something for everyone. And, of course, don’t forget the corned beef sandwiches and mustard – two of Cleveland’s most iconic dishes. So next time you’re in the city, be sure to try some of these local favorites. Bon appetit!
