For my final night in Cleveland I had dinner at Lola Bistro which is considered the crown jewel of the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Located along the food and entertainment district of East 4th Street, the New American restaurant features an inventive and creative menu by chef and owner, Michael Symon.
I arrived for my Sunday night reservation and sat at the Chef’s Counter overlooking the kitchen. The restaurant was dark and elegant. The counter possessed a warm amber glow.
I browsed through the cocktails on a tablet and ordered a nice bourbon cocktail, then things started off with some bread and butter.
For an appetizer, I ordered the iconic Beef Cheek Pierogi. The eastern European dumplings are a beloved staple of the city’s cuisine and this was a unique take on them. The shredded beef filling was juicy and tender. The pierogies were topped with a savory sauce, mushrooms and horseradish crème fraiche.
For a main, I went with the Sea Scallops with cauliflower, caramelized onions, Meyer lemon, and bacon bits. The scallops had a nice sear and were tender. There were salty, tart, and savory flavors. I also had the Potato Lyonnaise as a side. The potatoes and onions are sauteed in butter and parsley. I would have liked them to be crispier though.
I may not be big on sweets, but I couldn’t leave without trying The 6 a.m. Special. I’m so glad I did! Brioche French toast with maple-bacon ice cream and caramelized apples was a heavenly combination. It was amazing! It’s been added to my list of favorite desserts.
Dinner at Lola was great and I’m so glad I finally had the chance to dine at one of Chef Michael Symon’s restaurants. It was a great final day in Cleveland enjoying a yummy brunch and a baseball game. I walked back to the hotel and a Bar 32 nightcap before going to bed.
I was heading home tomorrow, but had time for one last meal and another iconic dish before catching my flight.
Lola Bistro
2058 E 4th Street
Cleveland, OH 44115
(216) 621-5652
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