Ohio City Cleveland, OH

One of the oldest neighborhoods in Cleveland, Ohio City traces its roots back to 1818. The city became an independent municipality in 1835 only to be annexed by Cleveland 18 years later. Rich in history and culture, Ohio City is home to a large array of residents. Early city settlers were of English, German, Hungarian and Irish descent, yet population expansion in the 1970s brought many Latino, Asian and African-American families. Such diversity has inspired creativity in a community where art galleries and eclectic small businesses thrive. Several cultural events celebrate regional heritage throughout the year. These festivities include the Burning River Festival, Brite Winter Festival, Puerto Rican festival and the Ohio City Run and Crawl.

Ohio City restaurants offer something to please even the most diverse palates. Several varieties can be found simply exploring West 25th Street. Neighborhood choices include American, French, Italian, Thai, Mexican and Middle Eastern fare and popular breweries.

Located in a former bank building, Crop Bistro and Bar serves cutting-edge cuisine that is as beautiful as the decor of the place. The warm balsamic popcorn remains a happy-hour favorite. Pan-seared scallops and the Korean BBQ short ribs are also popular.

If flavors of Mexico tempt the mind, Momocho Mod Mex satisfies. Many come for unique guacamole selections such as goat cheese or smoked trout. Executive Chef Eric Williams reinvents taquitos with butternut squash and wild boar options. A gluten-free menu suits those with allergies.

Bruno's Ristorante & Catering brings authentic traditions from Coreno, Italy to Ohio City with favorites such as calamari fritti and homemade lasagna. Bruno's may appear average outside, but the food surpasses expectations.

When craving creations from the Middle East, travel to Kan Zaman Restaurant and Hookah Lounge. Many menu choices as well as evening entertainment fill the large venue. Live music, belly dancers, DJs and tango nights keep Saturday nights exciting.

As Ohio's first craft brewery, the Great Lakes Brewing Company has set the bar high for local competitors. Dortmunder Gold gained national recognition after winning the Great American Beer Festival's gold medal. Other award-winning beer creations not to be missed include the Burning River Pale Ale, Eliot Ness Amber Lager and Christmas Ale. Original beers paired with excellent burgers keep locals returning to Great Lakes Brewing Company loyally.

After the sun sets in Ohio City, residents relish in clubs and breweries. For a fast tempo and lively crowd, Bounce dance club keeps guests entertained. Market Avenue Wine Bar has affordable wine selections that make for a lovely evening. Tasting events are a great way to meet the neighbors. Live jazz can be found at the upscale Velvet Tango Room, where they specialize in classic cocktails. BOP STOP at The Music Settlement combines music school and music venue. Here the lake view enhances already superior performances. Ohio's only Belgian beer bar since 2005, McNulty's Bier Markt presents over 100 Belgian and American craft beers.

As one of the most connected areas of Cleveland many transportation options exist. Locals choose from riding a bike, walking, public transportation, hiring a driver or driving their own vehicles. Highways 90, 71, 77 and Route 2 make destinations quickly reachable. Parking on city streets may be free but can be difficult to locate a spot. The RTA provides affordable public transit with nine neighborhood routes. Choose from Uber or West Side Shuffle for a reliable ride home. For local events and private occasions Lolly the Trolley could be reserved. Inexpensive taxi cabs can be hailed with little wait at bars and restaurants. Westlake Cab Company continues to be the most popular, yet Ace Taxi Service and Airport Taxi are options.

Ohio City can be considered a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood. Second only to downtown, the district possesses sociable sidewalks and many bike racks facing establishments. However, roadways stay busy, and nonexistent bike lanes make street travel complicated for cyclists.

More urban than rural, Ohio City contains some parks. Both Greenwood Park and Fairview Park provide family-friendly events during the summer months including live music and an ice cream social. Jim Mahon Park located on Detroit Road also lies in the community.

More active residents should become familiar with the free Cleveland Metropark system nearby. Edgewater Park features lake views as well as fitness stations, a pier and an expansive beach. Pets on a leash can come to play as long as they stay off the beach. Just past Edgewater Beach rests Whiskey Island, a marina, as well as a yacht club.

Citizens consider Ohio City reasonably inexpensive. The cost of living stays lower than downtown Cleveland. Housing options include new luxury development, refurbished historic buildings and more affordable duplexes. The average rental rate for a single dwelling runs $940. Enjoy a pizza for under $20 or a burger for less than $10 at more than one establishment. A local beer averages $6.25. All one-way RTA bus fares have a fee of $2.25, or travelers have the option to purchase an all-day pass for only $5. Driving remains reasonable with Ohio City gas prices hovering at 13 percent lower than the national average cost.

Shopping in Ohio City offers locals a variety of products. Art, antiques, jewelry, bikes and furniture seem located centrally near West 25th Street. Shops to stop and explore continue to be City Buddha, Urban Orchid, the Glass Bubble Project and Cigar Cigars. Room Service boutique carries unique clothing and home goods. Penzeys Spices across the street from the West Side Market supplies the highest quality flavors to prepare meals at home.

The West Side Market continues to be the gem of the neighborhood. Residents flock to this fresh market for savory buys. Established in 1912, the West Side Market maintains only the freshest food crafters from generations of Cleveland families. Restaurants throughout Cleveland have been known to purchase ingredients here. Dave’s Supermarket and Save-A-Lot have stores in the community for affordable groceries. Seasonal street markets can also be found in the Hingetown area at the north end of Ohio City.