Date nights, special occasions, or simply having the desire to enjoy an intoxicating ambiance and world-class cuisine begs the question, āWhat are the best upscale restaurants around Cleveland?ā Weāve curated a list of Cleveland-area restaurants that surpass the category of āfine diningā and reach a new level of sophistication, luxury, and delight.
1. Chez Francois
555 Main St., Vermilion
Chez Francois is an upscale waterfront restaurant in Cleveland, Ohio, known for its romantic ambiance and ever-changing seasonal French menu. Some of the most notable dishes include lobster wrapped in puff pastry and sea scallops with veloutƩ sauce.
The restaurant's Main Dining Room exudes sophistication and old-world charm, making it a popular choice for special occasions. The Riverfront Cafe provides a casual yet sophisticated outdoor dining experience. ToucheĢ, the martini and wine bar, offers a relaxed atmosphere with small plates and a variety of beverages. The Parisian Room is a versatile space catering to different events and occasions.
Chez Francois boasts an extensive wine selection of over 300 labels on the regular list and 600-plus on the Captain's List, with a focus on French and American wines. The restaurant has received accolades, including being the highest-rated Zagat restaurant in Ohio and one of OpenTable's Top 100 restaurants in the U.S.
With impeccable service and attention to detail, Chez Francois provides an elevated culinary experience. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner, outdoor dining, or a casual gathering, this upscale restaurant offers an unforgettable blend of refined ambiance, exquisite cuisine, and exceptional hospitality.
2. Marble Room
623 Euclid Ave., Cleveland
Housed in the historic National City Bank building, Marble Room Steakhouse is an extravagant dining destination in downtown Cleveland. The structure, coined "The Cathedral of Finance" for its majestic marble interiors and grand atrium, was constructed in 1893. After years of vacancy, it underwent an extensive restoration in 2015 to become the illustrious Marble Room.
Their menu is a symphony of top-tier steaks and classic dishes, complemented by a fresh seafood selection and artisanal sides from the raw bar. The establishment harmoniously merges the building's historical grandeur with modern conveniences and superior service. The immense lower-level vaults now serve as private party spaces, while former executive offices transform into elegant dining rooms and cocktail lounges.
Owned by Frank and Malisse Sinito since 2017, Marble Room Steakhouse encapsulates a dining experience steeped in Cleveland's rich history. It celebrates the past through its architectural heritage while delighting patrons with culinary brilliance and meticulous service, creating a truly unforgettable dining journey.
3. L'Albatros
11401 Bellflower Rd, Cleveland
Located in the vibrant heart of Cleveland, L'Albatros is a chic, modern brasserie, set within a historic carriage house on the grounds of Case Western Reserve University. Its architectural design is a study in contrasts, pairing contemporary elements with the time-worn beauty of the heritage building.
Within its walls, the dining space exudes a casual, modernist charm, with exposed brick walls and lofty ceilings adding a dash of industrial chic to the overall ambiance. During warmer months, the outdoor seating area unfolds as a tranquil haven for alfresco dining. At the heart of L'Albatros is its remarkable culinary offerings, blending the timeless appeal of classic French dishes with contemporary creativity.
Locally sourced ingredients are transformed into masterpieces of gastronomy, each dish reflecting the finesse and simplicity that defines French cuisine. Complementing the restaurant's exceptional menu is a curated wine list that traverses the globe, enhancing the dining experience and ensuring that each visit to L'Albatros is a culinary voyage.
4. Cru Uncorked
34300 Chagrin Blvd, Moreland Hills
Situated amid the verdant greenery of Moreland Hills, Cru Uncorked emerges like a vision from the pages of a French fairytale. This luxurious restaurant effortlessly evokes the ambiance of a tranquil French country estate. Its grand exterior, characterized by stately stone walls and expansive windows, hints at the architectural details that continue in through the doors.
The interior is a series of distinct dining rooms, each unique, yet the common thread of elegance. Open fireplaces lend an air of warm sophistication, creating an intimate setting that encourages lingering conversations over a bottle of wine from their extensive collection. The meticulously curated menu at Cru Uncorked pays homage to French tradition. Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients are transformed into an array of dishes through innovative culinary techniques, each plate a testament to the restaurant's commitment to delivering an unparalleled dining experience.
5. Giovanniās
25550 Chagrin Blvd, Beachwood
In the upscale district of Beachwood, Giovanni's stands as a monument to the art of Italian fine dining. An aesthetic blend of classic and modern design elements are captivating and set the tone for the fine cuisine served at Giovanni's. The interior evokes a sense of timeless romance and coziness, completed by art-laden walls, rich mahogany accents, and a gentle ambient lighting scheme that casts a welcoming glow.
With each visit, diners embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Italy. The meticulously crafted menu boasts an exquisite balance of traditional and innovative Italian dishes, each course echoing Italy's rich culinary heritage and the restaurant's dedication to superior quality. Every bite at Giovanni's promising a memorable feast steeped in authenticity.
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