LAKEWOOD, Ohio -- Lakewood is one of Cleveland's most happening suburbs with a variety of restaurants and bars catering to all different tastes. We decided to look at a few of the taverns and eateries that standout. If you're thinking about a night out on the town in Lakewood, here are a few suggestions:
Humble Wine Bar: Easily the classiest of Lakewood's Detroit Avenue taverns, Humble Wine Bar is a great place to take a date on a Friday night. Dozens of wines in their wine cellar and a stone pizza oven also make this a great place for a dinner with friends or family.
Around the Corner Saloon: One of Lakewood's most popular hang-outs for college kids and young professionals, Around the Corner Saloon is always a happening place on the weekends, especially for those who don't want to make drive to downtown Cleveland's nightlife hotspots. The enormous patio makes this a great summer hangout ... if summer ever arrives.
Vosh Night Club: A throwback to the big band era and one of the west side's premiere music venues, this Riverside Drive hotspot is a favorite of jazz lovers. The stellar cocktail menu and craft beer list serve as the icing on the cake.
Barrio: Famous for their tacos and margaritas, the Madison Avenue branch of this Cleveland-area bar franchise also serves free chips and salsa to customers. I would also check out there guacamole menu. Expect to wait if you plan on going on a Friday or Saturday night.
16 Bit Bar: There isn't much I can say about this one that hasn't already been written. With a creative cocktail menu and an interesting mix of craft beers on draft, you can get sloshed while enjoying classic arcade games. It's best to patronize this bar and arcade during their happy hours on weeknights or early in the afternoon on a Saturday or Sunday when it's not ridiculously crowded.
Melt Bar and Grilled: Just Like 16 Bit Bar, there isn't much more I can say about this famous Northeast Ohio franchise that hasn't been said already. They don't take reservations for groups smaller than 12, so arrive early and expect to wait if you want to enjoy their famous grilled cheese on the weekend or at dinnertime.
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Buckeye Beer Engine: If you've never tried Mead, a libation made from fermented honey, this would be a good place to start. Their menu features eight different varieties of this sweet nectar. Oh, and their title isn't misleading, they've got a great draft beer selection.
Phantasy Nite Club: With a good mix of National and local acts, Phantasy remains Lakewood's premiere music club. A giant pirate ship makes this venue stand out.
The Foundry Concert Club: The Foundry -- which is right across the street from Phantasy on Detroit Avenue -- features mostly hard rock acts.
West End Tavern: One of the best happy hours in Lakewood, this upscale Lakewood bar has drink specials that can't be beat. Don't forget the $2 Tacos on Tuesdays and 40-cent boneless wings on Thursdays.
Forage Public House: With the most eclectic cocktail menu in Lakewood, Forage might empty your wallet, but it will leave you satisfied.
Pier W: As the name suggests, this is the best place to enjoy quality seafood in on the west side. They also have a specialty cocktail menu for anyone who wants to enjoy a drink or two with a nice dinner. It's one of the most expensive restaurants in Lakewood, so I recommend checking out their happy hour prices if you don't want to drain your bank account.
Corky's Place: This neighborhood bar is a favorite for people who want to try their hand at karaoke. It's also an affordable place to grab a drink or two after a hard day of work.
The Side Quest: This Detroit Avenue hangout features dozens of board games in their library, and customers are also allowed to bring their own. The Side Quest also features nights for Cards Against Humanity and Dungeons and Dragons. Check out their calendar for other special events.
Mahall's Lanes: A restaurant, dive bar, music venue, comedy club, Mahall's is undoubtedly the most versatile nightlife hotspot in Lakewood.
Bevy in Birdtown: A music venue, karaoke spot and gastropub, Bevy in Birdtown is one of Lakewood's most interesting bars.
Merry Arts Tavern: With big screen TVs on either side of this bar, and TVs embedded into the booths, Merry Arts Tavern is possibly the best place in Lakewood to watch a big game. Also, try their funnel cake fries.