It's no secret that Cleveland is home to an incredible dining scene. It has long been a topic of conversation among publications like the Los Angeles Times and Thrillist, and while local haunts like Sokolowski's University Inn and new hot spots like Lola typically garner all of the attention, we'd like to give some love to the burgers.
In this city, there is no shortage of burger options. You can go simple at an old-school drive-in, or step it up a notch at a locavore eatery with a rooftop view. Either way, the beef is likely sourced from right here in Ohio, and the flavors mix together just right.
Next time you're smacked with a burger craving, check out these 10 incredible joints around town!
Photo courtesy of Burgers 2 Beer
Burgers 2 Beer brings burgers to life with creative ingredients, adventurous recipes and delicious grass-fed beef. There are 26 different burger options on the menu, and each is more clever than the last. For instance, the Luther, one of the restaurant's most popular burgers, is served on a glazed donut and topped with bacon and cheese, and the Like Butta Baby is drizzled with truffle butter and topped with bacon, Cajun brie, crispy fried onion straws and caramelized balsamic onion jam. Are you hungry yet?
Photo courtesy of Swensons
Swensons is actually known as basketball star LeBron James' favorite burger joint in town, and we're not surprised in the least. The old-school drive-in eatery serves a simple menu of burgers, fried dishes, sides and shakes, and although the venue doesn't take itself too seriously, the food is nothing to scoff at! Grab the Galley Boy, which is an award-winning double cheeseburger topped with two special sauces.
Photo courtesy of the Greenhouse Tavern
The Greenhouse Tavern is conveniently located downtown right on the pedestrian strip, and is a fantastic place for an easy dinner or lunch at any time of day. The upscale spot boasts a gorgeous rooftop patio and inventive new American fare. We like to start our meal off with the foie gras and clam appetizer before moving onto the lamb burger, which features a luxe cheese fondue, champagne shallot mignonette and tangy yogurt sauce. Yum.
Photo courtesy of The Rail
This local chain is all about supporting local. Everything from the beer to the burgers is sourced from right here in the state, and the staff celebrates the local community by hosting "beer school" classes in collaboration with local breweries at the restaurant. We're fans of the Local Yokel burger, which features Swiss cheese, local thick-cut bacon, and a fried local egg atop a 100% local beef burger and toasted bun. All menu items can be substituted with a veggie burger or chicken burger for no additional cost!