Cleveland has always been a hidden gem for food enthusiasts, with a palate that ranges from classic American comfort food to innovative culinary creations. In 2024, the city outdid itself, leaving food lovers spoilt for choice with its sumptuous offerings. Here are the best things we ate in Cleveland this year!

At the top of our list is the mouth-watering Smoked Lake Erie Walleye served at Pier W. This local fish was elevated to new heights with a delicate smoky flavor that seeped into the tender flesh perfectly. Paired with a wild rice pilaf and a side of seasonal greens, it was a meal that truly celebrated the flavors of Cleveland.

No culinary tour of Cleveland in 2024 would be complete without mentioning the Barbecue Brisket from Ohio City BBQ. The brisket, smoked to a tender perfection over hickory wood for hours on end, was served with a captivatingly tangy Cleveland-style barbecue sauce, a secret recipe that incorporated local craft beer and mustards, making each bite memorably delicious.

For those with a sweet tooth, Sweet Moses continued to reign supreme in the dessert department. The standout dessert was undoubtedly their Bananas Foster Sundae which had handmade vanilla bean ice cream drizzled generously with a sizzling rum caramel sauce, fresh bananas, and just the right amount of whipped cream to bring it all together.

An unexpected contender emerged from Tremont’s vibrant dining scene – The South Side’s Duck Confit Poutine. This perfect late-night indulgence consisted of crispy fries topped with succulent duck confit, gooey cheese curds, and lashings of rich gravy. It merged classic French Canadian comfort food with a touch of local flair.

Another dish that had everyone talking was Xin Chào’s Pho Bo – an aromatic beef noodle soup that comforted many during the brisk days of 2024. The broth was simmered over hours to achieve its complex flavor while the hand-pulled noodles, tender slices of beef, and assortment of fresh herbs unified in harmony to create one of the most heartwarming meals in town.

The Vegan Jackfruit Tacos from The Flamingo were also not to be missed. Even staunch carnivores admitted to indulging in them more than once! These tacos were filled with perfectly seasoned pulled jackfruit which mimicked the texture of pulled pork beautifully, topped with an avocado lime crema and pico de gallo that added freshness and zing.

But perhaps it’s Banter’s Polish Boy that really captured the soul of Cleveland’s culinary scene – kielbasa sausage piled into a bun with coleslaw, fries, and barbecue sauce all working together to create a messy yet deeply satisfying eat that championed Cleveland’s love for hearty portions and bold flavors.

Finally, Lox, Stock and Brisket’s pastrami sandwich became an instant classic. The pastrami was hand-rubbed with a secret blend of spices before being smoked, resulting in meat so tender you could almost spread it on their freshly baked rye bread like butter.

Exploring Cleveland’s culinary scene in 2024 proved once again why this city should never be overlooked by foodies searching for their next great meal. With every bite offering an ode to both tradition and innovation, Cleveland’s food remains as big-hearted as its hospitable people.