8 Foods That Every Clevelander Craves When They Leave Cleveland
By Nikki Rhoades|Published April 21, 2018
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Life in Cleveland has certainly shaped those of us that grew up here.We’ve developed a certain vernacular and a unique accent, and we’ve also adopted certain traditions as our own. One thing that has happened right under our noses – literally – is a change in our taste buds. We’ve inexplicably developed a palate that has a preference for Cleveland area foods. The hardest thing for people like us is leaving our beloved hometown, because these delicious delicacies won’t taste quite as good:
Nobody makes a grilled cheese sandwich quite like Melt. Melt Bar and Grilled has ten restaurants throughout Greater Cleveland, and each one serves up impressive grilled cheese sandwiches. Personally, I'd miss the Parmageddon most (how can you not love pierogi-topped grilled cheese sandwiches?!), but their entire menu consists of Cleveland classics that you'd definitely miss.
You can find delicious handmade pierogies all over The Land and even throughout its suburbs. Whether they're prepared traditionally or accented with a modern twist, Cleveland pierogies are irresistible.
Every one of us has at one point discovered a local bakery that we believe has perfected the Buckeye candy recipe. Once you are away from said bakery, candy just isn't as sweet anymore.
Mr. Hero may be plentiful around Greater Cleveland, but once you venture out of the area you will be let down. This delicacy is a local favorite, and it pairs flawlessly with mozzarella sticks.
Kielbasa, cole slaw, french fries, and hot sauce... at some point, somebody looked at all of these seemingly unrelated ingredients and decided to put them together on a hot dog bun. The amazing part is that this dish is not only tasty, but it's beloved throughout the 216. You won't believe how much you'll miss this guilty pleasure food.
Paczki is a Cleveland favorite. Every Fat Tuesday, Clevelanders adopt the Eastern European tradition of indulging in sweets and celebration before the Lenten season begins (even though said celebration takes place on the Thursday before Lent in European countries). Here in Cleveland, Paczki Day is best paired with polka music, parades, and of course, delicious paczki.
There is no better sundae topping than hot fudge from Malley's Chocolates. After you've tasted this delicacy, you'll have to accept that you'll never find a fudge as mouthwateringly delicious anywhere else.
Slyman's Deli serves up the biggest and best corned beef sandwiches in the entire city. Many visitors have remarked that these corned beef sandwiches may be the best in the entire nation. You'll definitely miss this local deli delicacy when you find yourself away from Cleveland.
Cleveland is a city with a flavor all its own, but its best flavors can be found in some of the community’s classic dishes. What is your favorite Cleveland classic food? Tell us in the comments!
