BEST OF THE EAST Living it up with the area's

Best of theBest of the

We asked you to nominate your East Side favorites in dozens of categories. Then, we compiled the top three vote-getters in each one and asked you to once again cast your ballot at the Best of the East party at Landerhaven April 28. Read on to learn about the winners.

Stories by: Chrissy Kadleck, Myra Orenstein, Ann-Marie Vazzano and Sarah Webb

RESTAURANT //THE POMPADOUR

Small plates delivered in the Pompadour’s cozy, tapas-only dining room always create a buzz. “We’re so small that when servers start bringing plates out of the kitchen, they walk by everybody and people are like, ‘Oh, what is that?’ And everyone talks to one another at the tables,” says Rusty James Phillips, chefowner of the downtown Fairport Harbor restaurant.

The popular Humble Vegetable dish is not only eye-catching, but each vegetable presented goes through a different process to get to the plate. “We like to play with a lot of (temperature) differences, so you get hot and cold sensations in your mouth at the same time with this dish,” Phillips says. This healthy dish is also gluten-free and vegan.

320 High St., Fairport Harbor, 440-639-0263, thepompadourbar.com

MUSHROOMS: These meaty veggies are marinated in Pompadour seasoning and olive oil, usually overnight, Phillips says. Then, they are grilled to order and served hot.

ROASTED TOMATOES: After six hours of slow roasting in the oven, the Roma tomato is the next ingredient to star in the dish. “We slow roast it to preserve the juice in it, and then it’s served cold in contrast to the mushrooms,” Phillips says.

HARICOT VERTS: A combination of fresh, yellow wax and French green beans are cooked al dente in a bit of garlic, olive oil and butter and served warm. “We’re trying to preserve the snap in the beans so they’re not completely cooked through,” Phillips says.

PICKLED CHAYOTE: This Mexican squash is a cross between an apple and a zucchini. Phillips says they turn it into a squash noodle and pickle it. “This adds some acid and texture to the dish, as well as a cooling effect,” he says. AVOCADO RICE WINE VINAIGRETTE: The creaminess of a pureed avocado is combined with rice wine and sushi vinegar to make this unique dressing that is drizzled over the vegetables.

TOASTED SESAME SEEDS: The dish is sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds for a finish that adds texture and a bit of smokiness.

SEASONAL PIMMS CUP: Sip on this delicious drink that combines grapefruit and vanilla cordial, cinnamon, lemon, salt and house-made ginger beer.

PHOTOGRAPHER //KIM PONSKY SABLE 5

With smartphones in hand, it seems like everyone has become a photographer. Kim Ponsky Sable, owner of Kim Ponsky Photography, shares tips for taking a great photograph. 1. Set your objective. Decide whether you are going for candid shots or specific “picture perfect” poses. 2. Avoid the sun. Sun makes people squint and highlights every fine line people typically try to hide. Shoot in areas of open shade. Cloudy but bright days are best. For bright days with no clouds in the sky, indoor photography by a window can provide ideal lighting. If it’s bright enough inside to comfortably read a book without additional light, it’s bright enough to capture a good photo. 3. Act natural. The subject should stand or sit in a way that feels comfortable. The goal should be to capture subjects in a way that makes them look like themselves. 4. Think about the framing of your subject. Follow the rule of thirds, where you make the subject part of the surroundings while they are still the focus. Position subjects in the upper third portion of the frame while being careful not to cut off their heads. Avoid centering the subjects in the middle of the frame. 5. Ensure your subjects are at ease. Once the subjects are comfortable with the photographer, they can relax and be themselves. 3797 Green Road, Beachwood, 216-229-7427, kimponskyphoto.com

SENIOR LIVING //THE WEILS/MENORAH PARK LIVE MUSIC VENUE // BEACHLAND BALLROOM & TAVERN

Beachland Ballroom & Tavern features a fall lineup you won’t want to miss. Todd Gauman, Beachland’s marketing director, gives the lowdown on upcoming shows. 1. The Aristocrats. This original yet irreverent group, offering one of the top rock-fusion acts in the world, graces Beachland Ballroom & Tavern on Aug. 18. 2. The Idles. The punk rock band hailing from the U.K. plays at the

Agora on Sept. 9, and chances are high that the setlist includes the original song, “The Beachland

Ballroom,” which details the group's rise to international fame. 3. The Osees. This psych garage rock band makes its annual stop at

Beachland Ballroom on Sept. 18.

This band may be moving on to larger venues soon, so be sure to snag tickets now. 15711 Waterloo Road, Cleveland, 216-383-1124, beachlandballroom.com3

The process of aging is often met with grumbles, but it doesn’t have to be unpleasant. Dr. Jessica Coleman, vice president of medical affairs at Menorah Park, offers tips for staying sharp.

1. Exercise your body. Physical activity has been proven to improve the health of the body and mind. Exercise decreases the risk and severity of many common health conditions, including cardiac disease and diabetes. Physical exercise also has been shown to prevent and slow down the progression of dementia. 2. Stimulate your mind. Mental activity is just

as important as physical activity to your overall 4 if not more, effective. 3. Be mindful of what you’re putting in your body. Limit alcohol intake, eat a plant-based diet and don’t smoke. 4. Start with small changes. The key is to make lifestyle changes. Redefine this phrase as “small, sustainable changes.” Drastic diets and exercise regimens rarely lead to long-term success because they are not sustainable. Change your life in small ways that can have a big impact on your health. For example, take the stairs, park farther away or replace soda with water. 16695 Chillicothe Road, Chagrin Falls, 440-543-4221, menorahpark.org/residences/the-weils COURTESY KIM PONSKY PHOTOGRAPHY / ISTOCKhealth. Exercising the brain leads to improved memory recovery and storage. Don’t get stuck on crosswords and Sudoku — building new friendships and learning new skills are just as,

4

BARTENDER, CHEF, SEAFOOD, STEAK // HOOK & HOOF NEW AMERICAN KITCHEN AND COCKTAIL

Hunter Toth, owner and chef at Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail, grew up working in his family’s grocery store, where he learned the ins and outs of food and food care.

As a young adult, he shifted his focus and moved to Florida for art school, but after spending time with friends on the beach and enjoying the various cuisines they introduced to him, it all clicked. From there, he worked in Cleveland and Florida restaurants, being everything from a barback to dishwasher to the person who cuts the fries and breads the fish. “It’s like art, where you don’t realize how in-depth you get, and you find yourself learning and you don’t even realize it,” Toth says.

The rest is history. In 2016, Toth and his partner, Chaz Bloom, joined forces to open Hook & Hoof in Willoughby.

“The city was thrilled we were putting in a progressive dining establishment. We had a lot of support, so it was just up to us to not mess it up,” Toth says.

The restaurant’s food is a homage to childhood, with contemporary twists inspired by the owners’ travels. The amber lighting and brick setting allow diners to get lost in both the food and atmosphere. 4125 Erie St., Willoughby, 440-571-5312, hookandhoofdtw.com

While Toth and Bloom frequently change up the menu, there are several staple dishes:

1. 24-Hour Brined Pork Chop. The star of the show, this brined, double bone-in pork chop is grilled and basted in pork butter, resulting in a tender and juicy cut. 2. Smoked Clams & Mussels. This dish is rendered with chorizo in a pan with shallots and garlic and deglazed with negro Modelo. The clams are then added, along with coconut milk and the mussels, creating a broth that features a South American flair.

It’s so delicious that diners often ask for the broth in a to-go container. 3. The Classic Burger. The half-pound patty is topped with imported gruyere Swiss cheese, tomato, thickcut bacon and a special sauce. Don’t let the simplicity fool you — the burger packs a flavorful punch, so much so that the restaurant sometimes limits how many it can offer.

BREWERY // BOSS DOG BREWING CO.

It’s all in the name at Boss Dog Brewing Co. in Cleveland Heights. Ohio proud and Cleveland tough, the brewery serves up drinks and food pairings like a boss. Owner Josh Sweet gives the scoop on must-try drinks and the best food pairing for each. 1. El Hefe. This bright and light German wheat beer features traces of slightly spicy clove with hints of banana. Even better, cans of this delicious drink can be found at Heinen’s Grocery Store locations starting July 1.

Pair it with: Shrimp salad sandwich

2. Mastiff. This mango-infused hazy IPA features an unmatched juicy, tropical, citrus flavor that quenches the thirst and satisfies the senses.

Pair it with: Summer salad

3. Rocktoberfest. This German marzen was the 2021 Best Oktoberfest

Winner at Cleveland Oktoberfest — and for good reason. The malty beer features a beautiful deep-amber color and offers a clean and classic finish.

Pair it with: Schnitzel sandwich

THINGS right. now.we love

SHOP LOCAL AND TREAT YOURSELF (OR YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS, INCLUDING THE FOUR-LEGGED FURRY ONES) TO THESE FUN FINDS.

CLEVELAND T-SHIRT SHOP // CLE CLOTHING CO. These unique tees, tanks, sweatshirts and more let you wear your Cleveland pride on your sleeve — literally. There’s even a collection featuring local landmarks like the Guardians of Traffic and Terminal Tower. Multiple Locations, 216-767-5884, cleclothingco.com

PET BOUTIQUE // THE POSH PET BOUTIQUE Dress your canine to the nines with these handmade fashions. Although they specialize in outfits for small dogs, clothing for bigger pups can be custom ordered. Pet toys are available, too. 7361 Center St., Mentor, 440-290-0360, theposhpetboutique.com

CLEVELAND HANDMADE MARKET VENDOR //

THE GOURMET SOAP MARKET Bask in the sweet scents of summer without leaving your shower. The beach collection features glycerin soaps, shower bombs, lotions and more, all made with fresh, mindfully selected ingredients. 204 Third St., Fairport Harbor, 216-854-7202, gourmetsoapmarket.com

PATIO // SAPPHIRE CREEK WINERY & GARDENS

The stunning main terrace at Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens is meant to be enjoyed all year. Edison lights hang across a heated patio outfitted with motorized vinyl screens and a beautiful fireplace. These creature comforts, coupled with views of the wooded grounds, Sapphire Creek and the gardens spanning the 15 acres, make this award-winning, indoor-outdoor space the best of both worlds. At this hidden gem, take a stroll on the grounds with a glass of Napa Valley wine, take in the dramatic water and fire features or enjoy a craft cocktail at any of the comfy outdoor seating spots located throughout the extensive property. Don’t miss out on Sapphire’s modern American menu offerings, including its famed lobster tater tots. “People love those — they are so good,” says Kathleen Dangelo, owner. “We have amazing tuna tacos and a blackened striped bass that people have just been raving about.”

16965 Park Circle Drive, Chagrin Falls, 440-543-7777, sapphire-creek.com

MANI/PEDI //AVANTI SALON

Staying on top of the latest colors, shapes and options for manis and pedis is a must during any season. Marisa and Tony Paterniti, owners of Avanti Salon, get it — color says it all. This season, look for pastels from bright blues and yellows to greens and purples. Bright colors for toes and softer, lighter colored fingers are in vogue. White toenails are big news. “They’re clean and trendy,” Marisa Paterniti says. Look for almond-shaped nails with longer nails being popular among the younger crowd. Gels keep increasing in popularity thanks to their staying power and quick-drying ability. As for when to have a mani/pedi, keep your fingers and toes looking fresh and fabulous with a traditional manicure once a week, gel manicure every two weeks and a monthly pedicure.

8027 Mayfield Road, Chesterland, 440-729-9008, avantisalon.com

DANCE | FITNESS | MUSIC | THEATRE | VISUAL ARTS Try something new this fall!

Located in beautiful Russell Township, Fairmount Center for the Arts offers introductory and advanced classes and workshops for children and adults.

Register today at FairmountCenter.org, or call 440-338-3171.

BIRTHDAY PARTY // NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES

Picking a theme and intertwining it throughout a party, from the invitations to the snacks, is a great way to throw a memorable birthday celebration. At the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, there's no shortage of inspiration. Children celebrating "B'Earthdays" at the Nature Center can tap into their sense of adventure with activities that include following hints to find hidden gems in a forest, looking for fairy-sprinkled clues to discover the butterfly lifecycle or practicing survival skills by building stick forts. Katrina Heinzen, environmental educator, says parents often creatively carry the theme throughout the party, recalling one mom who took the "Creepy Crawly Critters" theme to an entirely new level. “Everything looked like a different kind of bug, so you had different bugs on the cupcakes and the cookies, and even the hors d’oeuvres were caterpillars made out of grapes on skewers,” she says. “She thought of everything.” Added bonus: Throw a party without any plastic waste and get a $25 rebate.

2600 S. Park Blvd., Cleveland, 216-321-5935, shakerlakes.org

BIKE SHOP //EDDY’S BIKE SHOP

Eddy’s Bike Shop has chalked up its share of local and national accolades. Opened in 1940, father and son Jim and Jimmy Ruggles are its third-generation owners. Employees like Zac Waugh, Eddy’s service manager, know bikes and their trails. For safe, family-friendly rides, head to North Chagrin Reservation with its scenic trails leading to River Road. More experienced riders should check out South Chagrin Reservation, which offers a different experience with rising parkways and options for side excursions on its hiking trails. A little farther east, Waugh likes Chapin Forest Reservation at Lake Metroparks. The trails have a bit more crushed limestone and gravel and boast a scenic overlook of the area, as well as views of Downtown Cleveland. Waugh says bike enthusiasts should consider joining touring clubs, such as Cleveland Touring Club or the Cleveland Triathlon Club. For a fun, midweek bike ride he invites everyone to Eddy’s Taco Tuesdays ride. Meet at the shop at 6:30 p.m., bike to Barrio in Willoughby, grab dinner and bike back to the shop.

2830 Bishop Road, Willoughby Hills, 440-943-2453, eddys.com

MEXICAN FOOD //BARRIO

If your idea of a taco is ground beef, tomato, lettuce and cheese, listen up. Barrio’s tacos can be a true culinary work of art. Create your own masterpiece from a host of menu offerings, and Barrio’s kitchen will build it. Barrio director of marketing Ashling Murray offers some suggestions from its sizable menu. Start with Barrio’s unique double shell — a soft taco, queso fundido and guacamole in the middle and a hard taco shell. Next, add protein. For a bit of a kick, Murray recommends the spice rub chicken or the jalapeno lime skirt steak. Less spicy options include pulled pork or braised short rib. Vegetarian options are also available. Or, add more than one. The Chihuahua cheese is her next choice since this soft, mild, white cheese pairs well with proteins. Now, you’re on your own. With seven available toppings, pile on pineapple or corn salsa, cilantro, onions, lettuce and pico de gallo. Cauliflower or cilantro lime rice are also available add-ons. Typically, two to three tacos satisfy even the biggest appetites. Barrio also offers brunch tacos on Saturdays and Sundays.

Best ofthe Winners List

FOOD

Restaurant The Pompadour, Fairport Harbor Patio Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens, Chagrin Falls View 17 River Grille, Chagrin Falls Lunch Spot M Italian, Chagrin Falls Late Night Food The Fairmount, Cleveland Heights Brunch Sol, Willoughby Organic Food Whole Foods Market, Multiple Locations Vegetarian Tommy’s Restaurant, Cleveland Heights Seafood Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail, Willoughby Sushi Pacific East Japanese Restaurant, Cleveland Heights Steak Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail, Willoughby Independent Coffee Shop Heartwood Coffee Roasters, Chagrin Falls, Hudson Quick Bite Yours Truly Restaurant, Multiple Locations Ice Cream Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream, Multiple Locations Bakery Luna Bakery & Cafe, Cleveland Heights, Moreland Hills Smoothie Pulp Juice and Smoothie Bar, Multiple Locations Pizza Geraci’s Restaurant, Multiple Locations Burger Flip Side, Multiple Locations Wings Winking Lizard Tavern, Multiple Locations Mexican Barrio Tacos, Multiple Locations Italian M Italian, Chagrin Falls Chinese Ho Wah Restaurant, Beachwood Farmers Market Heart of Willoughby Outdoor Market, Willoughby Deli Farmer in the Deli, Chesterland Family Dining Mario Fazio’s, Willoughby Hills

SERVICE

Wedding Venue Landerhaven, Mayfield Heights Day Spa Ladies & Gentlemen Salon and Spa, Mentor, Lyndhurst Mani/Pedi Avanti Salon, Chesterland Salon Avanti Salon, Chesterland Dry Cleaner D.O. Summers Cleaners, Multiple Locations Senior Living The Weils, Chagrin Falls Car Wash Zappy’s Auto Washes, Multiple Locations Fitness Center Results Fitness, Mayfield Heights Yoga/Pilates Cleveland Yoga, Multiple Locations

ENTERTAINMENT

Happy Hour Burntwood Tavern, Multiple Locations Golf Course Manakiki Golf Course, Willoughby Live Music Venue Beachland Ballroom & Tavern, Cleveland Brewery Boss Dog Brewing Co., Cleveland Heights Charitable Cause VeloSano, Cleveland

SHOPPING

Jeweler Alson Jewelers, Woodmere Pet Boutique The Posh Pet Boutique, Mentor Wine Store Red, Wine & Brew, Multiple Locations Beer Selection (Retail) Red, Wine & Brew, Multiple Locations Florist Flowers by Julie, Fairport Harbor Garden Center Gale’s Garden Center, Maple Heights, Willoughby Hills Bike Shop Eddy’s Bike Shop, Multiple Locations Boutique Knuth’s, Woodmere Cleveland Handmade Market Vendor The Gourmet Soap Market, Fairport Harbor Men’s Fashion Ticknors Men’s Clothier, Beachwood Home Decor White Magnolia Boutique, Chagrin Falls Health Foods (Retail) My Mindful Market, Willoughby, Chagrin Falls Cleveland T-Shirt Shop CLE Clothing Co., Multiple Locations Consignment Shop Passion for Fashion, Chesterland Antique Shop Antiques on the Square, Chardon

CHILDREN

Dance Theater Fairmount Center for the Arts, Novelty Gymnastics Lakeshore Dance & Gymnastics, Mayfield Music Instruction Fairmount Center for the Arts, Novelty Birthday Party Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, Cleveland

PEOPLE

Chiropractor Aligned Chiropractic & Physical Rehabilitation, Willoughby, Ashtabula Chef Hunter Toth (Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail), Willoughby Bartender Chaz Bloom (Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail), Willoughby Stylist Aubrey Maffit (Ladies & Gentlemen Salon and Spa), Mentor Interior Designer Meghan Bergstedt (Payne & Tompkins Design Renovations), Chardon Fitness Instructor Josh Mekota (Results Fitness), Mayfield Heights Photographer Kim Ponsky Sable (Kim Ponsky Photography), Beachwood

ALIGNED CHIROPRACTIC AND PHYSICAL REHABILITATION

39000 Mentor Ave. Willoughby, Ohio 44094 440-953-3950 alignedchiro.org

Aligned Chiropractic is a full-service facility committed to the highest standards of patient care with a focus on workers compensation injuries and functional rehabilitation.

CLEVELAND CLOTHING CO.

20070 Walker Road Shaker Heights, Ohio 44122 216-303-9991 cleclothingco.com

Spreading Cleveland pride one T-shirt at a time since 2008. From printing tees in a basement to the Best of Cleveland! We are independent, local and family owned. A one-stop shop for Cleveland theme graphic tees, apparel, accessories, gifts and more!

HOOK AND HOOF NEW AMERICAN KITCHEN AND COCKTAIL

4125 Erie St. Willoughby, Ohio 44094 440-571-5312 hookandhoofdtw.com

Hook & Hoof located in historic Downtown Willoughby is an award- winning scratch New American kitchen using modern technique on timeless food and drink.

KNUTH’S

30619 Pinetree Road Pepper Pike, Ohio 44124 216-831-1116 knuths.com

A women’s wear boutique like no other, Knuth’s has been Cleveland’s fashion leader since 1960. Customers on both sides of town find inspired apparel, shoes and more. 8027 Mayfield Road Chesterland, Ohio 44026 440-729-9008 avantisalon.com

Avanti Salon is an award-winning Aveda Concept Salon and home to some of Northeast Ohio’s premier beauty professionals specializing in hair, skin and nails.

FAIRMOUNT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

8400 Fairmount Road Novelty, Ohio 44072 440-338-3171 fairmountcenter.org

Offering high-quality instruction for children and adults in dance, fitness, music, theatre and visual arts for more than 50 years. Explore the arts with Fairmount!

KIM PONSKY PHOTOGRAPHY

IG: @kimponskyphotography FB: @kimponskyphoto 216-229-7427 kimponskyphoto.com

A 5-time winner of Best of the East, Kim Ponsky Photography is a fully custom lifestyle photography studio specializing in child/family, high school seniors, corporate headshots and special event photography.

PACIFIC EAST JAPANESE RESTAURANT

1763 Coventry Road Cleveland Heights, Ohio 44118 216-320-2302 pacificeastcoventry88.com

Mon-Thur 11 am-10 pm, Fri 11 am-3 pm, 5-10:30 pm, Sat Noon-3 pm, 5-10 pm, Sun 3-9:30 pm

12767 Chillicothe Road Chesterland, Ohio 44026 440-688-4118 facebook.com/passionforfashion2

Passion for Fashion has created a curated collection of name brand to luxury designer clothing, handbags, shoes and accessories representing current styles and trends of today’s fashion. With an ever-changing selection at a fraction of retail prices, you’ll leave looking fabulous. Proud to be awarded the “Best of the East” Consignment Shop for 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022!

SAPPHIRE CREEK AND WINERY

16965 Park Circle Drive Chagrin Falls, Ohio 44023 440-543-7777 sapphire-creek.com

Visit Sapphire Creek Winery and experience fabulous wine and delicious cuisine in a beautiful setting. 9620 Old Johnnycake Ridge Road Mentor, Ohio 44077 440-210-0024 redwineandbrew.us

Red, Wine & Brew features a vast inventory of wines, craft beers and cigars. Come visit any of our three locations in Mentor, Chesterland, and Westlake.

ZAPPY’S AUTO WASHES

8806 Mentor Ave., Unit D Mentor, Ohio 44060 844-927-9274

Mon-Fri 9 am-5 pm, Sat 9 am-3 pm, Sun Closed zappysautowashes.com

Zappy’s Auto Washes offers it all with more to come including thirteen car washes, four detail centers, mobile detailing, retail store, gas store and an auto care center.

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