Date Archives: January 2021
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29
New Year, New LoLo Gifts From These 6 Small Businesses
Why not make 2021 the year you get to know the wonderful local businesses around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati? Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts want to get you started with January's selection of free offers.
January Gifts:
Canton: $10 Certificate
Kozmo's Grille
37 - 1st St. SW, Massillon, OH 44647
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Don't feel like cooking? Kozmo's Grille has a tempting assortment of upscale bar food favorites such as house-made potato chips, hearthstone pizza, and gourmet mac and cheese. Dine in or order ahead for carryout.
About Kozmo's Grille
From its setting in a modestly updated historic building to its menu of elevated comfort food, Kozmo's Grille has a goal to be "just different enough." Customers keep coming back for their award-winning pizza, prepared with homemade dough and baked in a hearthstone oven.
Contact and Hours
330.832.8807
Monday - Friday 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Akron: $10 Certificate
Niko's Sandwich Board
1947 W. Market St. #104, Akron, OH 44313
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Who doesn't love a good sandwich? The healthy, made-to-order deli sandwiches at Niko's Sandwich Board include vegan and vegetarian options, so there's something to satisfy everyone's tastes.
About Niko's Sandwich Board
With its emphasis on fruits and vegetables, olive oil, herbs, and whole grains, the Mediterranean diet has gained acclaim as a heart-healthy way of eating. Niko's Sandwich Board features traditional favorites from the owner's home island of Ikaria, including falafel, curried lentil, garbanzo salad, and pita bread.
Contact and Hours
330.794.5444
Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Cincinnati: Coffee and Pastry
Red Tree Gallery and Coffee
3210 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209
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Whether you're starting your day or need a quick pick-me-up, coffee and a pastry does the trick. Stop by Red Tree Gallery and Coffee for a freshly brewed cup of joe and locally-sourced pastry to go with it.
About Red Tree Gallery and Coffee
Red Tree Gallery and Coffee loves to showcase products and talent from the Cincinnati community. In addition to serving coffee and pastry from local vendors, Red Tree maintains a gallery where customers can view and purchase jewelry, paintings, and other works from regional artisans.
Contact and Hours
513.321.8733
Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Columbus: Coffee and Pastry
One Line Coffee - Short North
745 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43125
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One Line Coffee combines the finest globally- and locally-sourced ingredients for a menu of creative beverages for purists and adventurous souls alike. Pair your drink with a scratch-made cookie, muffin, or scone from OLC's own kitchen.
About One Line Coffee
Quality ingredients call for quality equipment. One Line Coffee uses the La Marzocco Strada LP, one of the rarest machines in the world, to pull espresso for their extensive offering of coffee drinks. Their signature honey and maple lattes are sweetened with products from nearby Honey Run Farm and Milligan's. Order online and your carryout order will be ready when you are.
Contact and Hours
614.564.9852
Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Wooster: Cookies or Cupcakes
The Faithful Little Cupcake
116 N. Main St., Orrville, OH 44667
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If you have a sweet tooth, cupcakes are one of the four main food groups. You'll be hooked on these mini delicacies from The Faithful Little Cupcake, which are matched only by the excellence of their delightful cookies.
About The Faithful Little Cupcake
At The Faithful Little Cupcake, variety is the spice of life. Each day features a rotating selection from their 100+ flavors along with a core menu of the six most popular flavors. Not surprisingly, one of them is Buckeye Blitz, a chocolate cupcake topped with peanut butter buttercream, ganache, and a buckeye. Have a special occasion coming up? Ask about their custom-designed cupcakes and cookies.
Contact and Hours
330.683.2253
Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Medina: Coffee and Pastry
Cool Beans Cafe
103 Liberty St., Medina, OH 44256
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When it comes to coffee, are you old school or do you go trendy with lattes and cappuccinos? Whichever you prefer, you'll come away happy after a visit to Cool Beans Cafe. Add one of their luscious pastries for a great light breakfast or midday snack.
About Cool Beans Cafe
Voted "Best Coffee in Medina County" the last seven out of nine years, Cool Beans Cafe literally has a winning formula. The espresso bar offers five different blends of brewed coffee, including Flavor of the Day, along with a full range of specialty drinks such as lattes, chai tea, Italian sodas, and smoothies. Customers have been impressed with the knowledgeable baristas and their ability to make special request drinks not on the menu.
Contact and Hours
330.723.7174
Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Freebies Galore!
Who doesn't love free stuff? Every month, Cutler Real Estate teams up with LoLo Gifts to provide a new selection of offers designed to showcase local small businesses.
It doesn't even cost anything to join! Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get started.
22
9 Places Around Ohio to Puzzle It Out Jan. 29th
January 29th is Puzzle Day, so head to your local shop and buy some to work out on your own or with family members. Simple puzzles with just a few pieces can help kids get started on this fun pastime while working on their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Before you know it, they'll be helping you on more complex 500- or 1,000-plus puzzles that take days to complete. And no matter what your interests, you'll probably be able to find a puzzle that matches them.
Check out the following 9 places around Ohio to puzzle it out:
Northeast Ohio
Sweets & Geeks
342 E. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256
The Sweets & Geeks name says it all – the store is a pop-culture haven that carries sweet candy as well as retro and modern "geeky" games, collectibles, and puzzles. Located near the heart of Historic Medicine Square, the shop has a good selection of puzzles, including ones with Coca-Cola, DC, Marvel, and Harry Potter themes. And while you're at the store, pick up some candy to enjoy while you're working your puzzle at home. From "weird and gross" choices to nostalgic candies you might have grown up with, you'll find something to please everyone who's working on the puzzle. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday.
Once Upon a Time
19285 Detroit Rd., Rocky River, OH 44116
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This family-owned toy store has been open since 1984 and been in its current location since 1988, so it has many satisfied customers throughout the northeast Ohio area. It's a good spot to shop for puzzles, including ones from the popular Ravensburger brand. Their puzzles range from 15-piece ones that appeal to young children to 9,000-piece scenes that will keep the family busy for days. You'll also find uniquely fun 3D puzzles. Visit the shop from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.
Toyrifix
885 W. Main St., Smithville OH 44677
Toyrifix carries a large selection of toys, games, and puzzles and prides itself on inspiring creative interactions between generations. You'll find plenty of puzzles, including one with a "Wine Time" theme that's perfect for these times of social distancing. Others follow a color theme, such as red, orange, or green, or depict colorful flowers or cute llamas. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday.
Columbus
The Book Loft
631 S. Third St., Columbus OH 43206
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You'll find much more than books at The Book Loft at German Village – which is one of the country's largest independent bookstores – including a huge collection of jigsaw puzzles. It's located a few blocks south of the state capitol building in a location with a rich pre-Civil War history. Since it takes up an entire city block and encompasses 32 rooms, you're sure to find additional items like board games, posters, and more. Hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m., 7 days a week.
Gramercy Books
2424 E. Main St., Bexley OH 43209
Locally owned Gramercy Books carries a selection of carefully curated puzzles, books (of course), and more. It's located in the heart of Bexley, at the intersection of East Main Street and Cassady Avenue. After you select the puzzles you'd like to buy, take time to visit the store's café, Kittie's, to enjoy Stumptown coffee, snacks, and their famous cupcakes. And don't forget to pet Wally, the store's adorable dog. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 7 days a week.
Beanbag Books
25 W. Winter St., Delaware, OH 43015
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Originally started as Fundamentals Parent-Teacher Store, Beanbag Books has been one of Delaware's favorite shops for over 30 years. Shop for puzzles, games, books, and more educational and fun activities you can share with your child. Hours are 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Cincinnati
Downbound Books
4139 Apple St., Cincinnati, OH 45223
Downbound Books has an extensive selection of puzzles, including those that have 500 or more pieces and ones that are well suited for children or for the entire family. The shop is open for curbside pickup from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. You can also set a shopping appointment for groups of up to 5 people, and neighborhood deliveries are also offered.
King Arthur's Toys
3040 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209
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King Arthur's Toys was started over 40 years ago as a tiny hobby shop, growing over the years to become a popular – and larger – store that carries puzzles, games, and toys. Shop for gorgeous Pomegranate puzzles, which are beautifully artistic. Choose from a depiction of Van Gogh's Irises, Old-World map, Renoir's Luncheon of a Boating Party, and many more. They're so attractive that they're perfect for preserving and framing to hang on the wall. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.
The Bookshelf
7754 Camargo Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243
You'll find a variety of puzzles and books at The Bookshelf, so a visit to the shop will have you well-stocked for at-home fun. If you become a frequent customer at The Bookshelf, you may want to purchase a frequent buyer card to receive a 10% discount, and if you're a teacher, you can score 15% off even without the card. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.
Piecing It Together
What kind of puzzles will you piece together as you spend time bonding with your family?
13
9 Places to Indulge in Pasta Around Northeast Ohio
One of our favorite ways to warm up on a frigid winter day is to indulge in a fresh homemade pasta dish. There's something comforting about eating a classic Italian meal, whether in-house or to-go. The smell of fresh Italian herbs, the taste of fine wine, and the sight of a freshly prepared pasta dish create a truly enjoyable dining experience.
Whether you're planning a family dinner or a romantic date night, there are several delicious Italian restaurants in the Northeast Ohio area that offer amazing menus with entrees not to be missed. Below are nine recommendations for local restaurants where you just might discover your favorite new pasta dish.
Maxi's Bistro
12113 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
Another great choice in Cleveland's Little Italy is Maxi's Bistro. This restaurant is frequently known as one of the best places to visit in Cleveland. Maxi's menu offers several classic Italian dishes, pastas, and gourmet pizzas in a relaxing setting with a welcoming ambiance. You have to try the Lobster Ravioli with cognac cream sauce! The restaurant is currently open for limited dining capacity and delivery, takeout, and curbside pickup. In the summertime, they have a beautiful garden patio for outdoor dining.
Trattoria On The Hill
12207 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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Located in the heart of Cleveland's Little Italy, Trattoria On The Hill has been serving old-school Italian cuisine since 1984. This family-owned-and-operated restaurant features all the classic Italian dishes like Cavatelli, Ravioli, and Linguine With Clams. Best of all, they actually sell jars of their signature sauce on-site. If you'd prefer to eat your pasta dinner at home, Trattoria On The Hill is currently accepting takeout orders by phone.
Molto Bene Italian Eatery
18401 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
What could be better than contemporary pasta dishes in a warm, cozy atmosphere? Head on over to Lakewood and check out Molto Bene Italian Eatery. If you love delicious Lasagna, Tortellini, Gnocchi, Fettuccine, and a wide range of savory homemade Italian sauces, Molto Bene is the place for you. Best of all, you can indulge in their award-winning Gelato for dessert. Molto Bene is frequently considered one of Lakewood's best Italian restaurants, and we definitely recommend it. Party sizes are currently limited to five people or less, and reservations are recommended as space is limited. Hard time getting a table? Takeout is also available.
D'Agnese's Trattoria and Cafe
566 White Pond Dr., Akron, OH 44320
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For a traditional white-tablecloth dining experience, head on down to Akron and try D'Agnese's Trattoria and Cafe at White Pond. This cozy restaurant serves classic Italian cuisine at a reasonable price. They offer an eloquent dine-in experience, but you can also call in for carryout or curbside pickup. The chef prepares a carefully crafted menu of monthly specials, so there are always various new dishes to try. If you would prefer to stick to the classics, you can't go wrong with the Pan-Seared Salmon over Risotto or one of their delicious gourmet pizzas!
Mia Bella Restaurant
12200 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
A contemporary Italian restaurant with a Mediterranean twist, Cleveland's Mia Bella Restaurant is a family-owned-and-operated establishment serving up some of the best pasta dishes in Northeast Ohio. Add in a large selection of wines from around the world, and Mia Bella's makes for a fantastic date night spot. The chef has more than 20 years of experience cooking in fine-dining establishments, so you know you're going to have a delicious meal. Outdoor dining is available on the patio when weather permits; however, indoor dining capacity is limited. Carryout orders are available by phone.
Luca Italian Cuisine
2100 Superior Viaduct, Cleveland, OH 44113
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If upscale Italian is more your style, Luca Italian Cuisine in Cleveland can make for a perfect date night. This award-winning restaurant offers modern high-end Northern Italian dishes with stunning views of Cleveland. Their menu features more than 100 wines from around the world, and upscale pasta dishes are made in an authentic Tuscan style and served in a truly elegant atmosphere. Both dine-in and takeout options are available.
Luigi's Restaurant
105 N. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
If you like a homestyle casual family atmosphere, Luigi's Restaurant in Akron is an absolute must-try. Established in 1949, Luigi's has been an Akron staple for several decades. The Baked Lasagna with garlic bread is absolutely delicious. The portions are huge, and the prices are reasonable, so it's a good idea to come hungry. For dessert, you have to try one of Luigi's freshly-baked pies! The restaurant is open for limited dine-in seating; however, they do get very busy, so plan your visit accordingly. Takeout orders can be placed by phone if you'd prefer to try Luigi's at home.
Bruno's Ristorante
2644 W. 41st St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Located just south of downtown Cleveland is Bruno's Ristorante. This classic restaurant offers authentic Italian dining and a variety of delicious pasta dishes designed by Chef Bruno himself. Enjoying some homemade Gnocchi with Bruno's blush sauce in a warm, intimate atmosphere is the perfect way to warm up on a cold winter night. Bruno's menu is designed to delight both the eye and the palette and the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. Dine-in, takeout, and delivery options are all available. Be sure to make a reservation if you're planning to stop by on a weekend.
Guarino's
12309 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
For some truly old-school Italian fare, stop by Cleveland's oldest restaurant. Guarino's, located in Little Italy, was opened by Vincenzo Guarino after he came from Sicily in 1898. The menu features dishes like Gnocchi Pesto, Pasta Primavera, and Linguine With Clam Sauce, along with all the classics. The restaurant also has a beautiful garden area for outdoor dining when weather permits. Guarino's is currently open for dine-in eating, but takeout can also be ordered online. Valet parking is also available on weekends.
Now That's Amore!
What's your favorite Italian restaurant in Northeast Ohio?
6
8 Places to Order Tempura Dishes Around Northeast Ohio
Who's hungry for some tempura? Tempura Day is on January 7th, and we're ready to dig into the best tempura Northeast Ohio has to offer. Unfamiliar with this Japanese dish? Tempura is not a food, but rather, a style of food, similar to "fried." Tempura is a batter traditionally made with flour, water, and egg yolks, but more contemporary batters may use starch or baking soda to create a crispier texture. No matter how it's made, it makes everything from seafood to vegetables taste amazing. Celebrate Tempura Day in Northeast Ohio with a tempura dish at these restaurants.
Kasai Japanese Restaurant
3875 Massillon Rd. #300, Uniontown, OH 44685
For more than 15 years, Kasai Japanese Restaurant gained a following that has helped them become one of the most popular Japanese restaurants in the area. From appetizers to sushi to dinner combos, Kasai offers a variety of tempura options, including shrimp, vegetables, and chicken. Their Kasai Lunch Specials come with tempura, house salad, and miso soup, but if it's sushi that you prefer, Alaskan Beauty Roll, Grouching Tiger Roll, and Kasai Crazy Roll are waiting for you.
Shuhei Restaurant
23360 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood, OH 44122
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Looking for traditional Japanese tempura served in a traditional Japanese atmosphere? Shuhei Restaurant is your destination. The waitstaff wear kimonos, and artwork on the walls date back hundreds of years. Japanese desserts, sake, and ramen are served up alongside Tempura Soba and Tori Tempura. One bite and you'll see why so many celebrities, athletes, and high-profile figures come to Shuhei when in Northeast Ohio.
SASA
13120 Shaker Square, Cleveland, OH 44120
There are so many tempura dishes at SASA that you'll definitely need to visit again and again to try them all. The classics like shrimp tempura are on the menu, but we think you should try a few unique options like Calamari Tempura Salad, Yam Tempura, and the Scandinavian Roll with whitefish tempura. Try to pop in right when the workday ends to take advantage of Happy Hour specials on tapas plates and alcohol.
Kintaro All You Can Eat Sushi & Hot Pot
7325 Northcliff Ave., Brooklyn, Ohio 44144
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If the unlimited sushi doesn't get you through the door of Kintaro All You Can Eat Sushi & Hot Pot, then their amazing tempura dishes will. Soft Shell Crab Tempura and California Tempura rolls are must-haves and can be ordered with your choice of tempura vegetables like zucchini, sweet potato, mushroom, and broccoli. Of course, you can't go wrong taking advantage of the all-you-can-eat sushi, so feel free to go crazy with Chicken Tempura and Shrimp Tempura rolls until you're stuffed!
Omizu Japanese Restaurant
6843 Ridge Rd., Parma, OH 44129
Whether you're a fan of traditional or modern Japanese cuisine, Omizu Japanese Restaurant is ready to treat you to a night of unforgettable bites. Their Temp Udon Hot Pot is a great alternative to the typical shrimp, chicken, and veggie tempura (though no shame in ordering the tried and true classics). Be sure to try some other unique offerings, like Wasabi Tobiko, Uni, Pork Katsu, and Chirashi.
Ginko Restaurant
2247 Professor Ave. B., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Ginko Restaurant prepares masterpieces that look way too good to eat. When you finally give in and chow down, you'll be blown away by the taste. Share this delicious food with your family, friends, or team, and let Ginko treat you to a private tasting menu or buffet/family style catering. Order up plenty of tempura veggies alongside your choice of entrees, starches, and desserts. Tempura Day only comes once a year; why not celebrate in style?
Umi Sushi
7558 Pearl Rd., Middleburg Heights, OH 44130
At Umi Sushi, they believe that small changes — such as using better ingredients — have huge impacts on food. You'll immediately taste these little differences in every big bite you take of Authentic Wok Tempura. Umi Sushi is a great lunch or dinner spot, but we insist that you visit during happy hour for discounted tempura sushi rolls and finish them off in style with decadent Tempura Vanilla Ice Cream.
Parallax
2179 W. 11th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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French cooking techniques receive an Asian flourish at Parallax. Fusion seafood and sushi are highlighted on their delicious menu. Fancy Vegetable Tempura with your Duck Confit? What about Tempura Lobster Tail and a side of Tempura Green Beans? These palette pleasers and more are ready for you to experience at Parallax.
Table for Two
Where is your favorite place to grab tempura around Northeast Ohio?
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