The Republican National Convention in Cleveland from July 18-21 is bringing tens of thousands of people to the city, where its Quicken Loans Arena will serve as host.
But they all can't survive on concession-stand food.
Here are our picks for some fine dining establishments in Cleveland where even presumptive nominee Donald Trump might break bread.
(In no particular order; prices subject to change because of convention)
BLUE POINT GRILLE: Located in the hip Warehouse District, the Blue Point Grille is one of the best - if not the best - seafood restaurant in town. Go for the Mega Raw Bar for $125, which includes two whole Maine lobsters, blue point oysters, shrimp cocktail, jonah crab claws, lobster & shrimp salad, smoked mussels, and chilled king crab. Executive chef Marc Standen has an interesting backstory - he attended the Rochester Institute of Technology to study photo journalism but his longing for home-cooked meals led him to a cooking position at a local restaurant, where he soon married both disciplines.
THE CAPITAL GRILLE: You could say The Capital Grille is a chain but that's like saying Tiffany's is a chain because it has multiple locations. TCG is a red meat lover's dream, and this location in Cleveland is no exception. Try the Gorgonzola and Truffle Crusted Dry Aged New York Strip for $49 - it's magnificent and one of our Capital Grille favorites. But there's more to this place than just steaks - the grilled chicken is terrific, as is the lamb, and there are numerous seafood selections to get a little surf and turf action going.
CHEZ FRANCOIS: Located in suburban Vermilion, it's worth the trip to visit this sophisticated French restaurant. Expect the standards on the menu, including duck breast and Beef Wellington, but we've nothing but great things about the Sautéed European Dover Sole with toasted sliced almonds, grapes and whole butter. It just sounds mouth-watering. Chez Francois also has an extensive wine cellar to pair your dinner with.
CROP BISTRO AND BAR: Some restaurants have amazing menus in pedestrian spaces. Some have daunting space that overwhelms a flimsy menu. Crop Bistro and Bar has a tremendous menu in a magnificent space, two floors in a restored 1925 Beaux-Arts building. If you can pull some strings, try to reserve the Chef's Table and go for the 11 Course Tasting Menu for $105.
JOHNNY'S BAR: Wonderful Italian restaurant with some great outdoor seating as well. Originally opened as Louise's Garden in the 1920s and changed to Johnny's Bar in 1952, the restaurant is famous for its marinara sauce. But Johnny's also offers a dish that few Italian restaurants offer anymore, and that's gnocchi. Specifically, a Potato Gnocchi with Sautéed Shrimp, Broccoli and Cream ($28.95).
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