Cleveland is home to its own interesting history, but the bulk of the area's personality undeniably comes from the suburbs. If you're familiar with the Strongsville, Ohio area, you might initially be skeptical that such a developed, high-traffic area ever appeared rural or hosted historic neighborhoods. Nonetheless, in the heart of town is a surprising historic village, and nearby is a restaurant and pub that's purportedly inhabited by a handful of spirits. Don's Pomeroy House is said to be among the most haunted restaurants in Cleveland, but don't let this scare you away. Their atmosphere is elegant and their menu indulgent. The staff is incredibly friendly and so, too, are the patrons. What about its resident ghosts, you ask? You'll have to pay a visit to find out.
Once upon a time, a young man named Alanson Pomeroy built the home of his dreams in Strongsville, Ohio.
Construction began on "The Homestead," as he called it, in 1847. Just a few years later, he expanded his property to include The General Store. In Strongsville's early days, this stunning site was doubtlessly one of the most impressive homes outside of Millionaires' Row.
Though it began as one of the grandest houses in the area, The Pomeroy House was at one time in serious disrepair.
It was between 1963 and 1966 that kids first looked at the spooky, abandoned "Pomeroy Ghost House" and dared one another to enter its storied grounds. Though locals attempted to save it, its cellar flooded, vandals destroyed its pristine walls, and time warped its floors and windows. Rumors persisted about its haunted grounds.
Nonetheless, it was added to the National Register of Historical Places and eventually restored to its former glory.
Now a restaurant, this unique dining destination maintains all the charms its original owners enjoyed. Rich, stunning woods adorn the dining spaces, and comfortably open rooms make the restaurant feel light and airy despite its indulgent comfort food.
The food here is exquisite, and the atmosphere is simply to die for.
From the pub to the dining room, visitors enjoy elegant surroundings and meals alike.
Some visitors nod to the house's former involvement on the Underground Railroad as the source of its spectral resident.
The restaurant's website even notes, "It’s true, a lot has happened in the Pomeroy House over the years – in fact, some staff members have reported ghostly images late in the evening."
Runaway slaves were hidden in the home's cellar during its service on the Underground Railroad. Alanson Pomeroy's son, Harlan, often recounted catching glimpses of people hiding beneath the cellar door. He also recalled seeing his mother slip away with a steaming plate of food to serve the stowaways, emphasizing the Pomeroy House's long-standing dedication to hospitality.
Psychics and unsuspecting diners have reported interacting with the home's spirits... but most enjoy a hospitable meal with no inkling of any haunting.
Despite being a formerly decrepit haunted house, Don’s Pomeroy House has made a strong comeback. It's said that half of the area's couples got engaged in this cozy spot, and over the years good news has been shared in great quantity over drinks at the old Pomeroy House.
Whether or not the site is haunted, one thing is for sure; whether you're planning a special event or swinging by for dinner, the food will sweep you off your feet.
You'll be head over heels for the menu at Don’s Pomeroy House. Seafood, steak, pasta, dessert, and more are awaiting the opportunity to tantalize your taste buds. Click here for a full menu.
Whether or not you believe in ghosts, the atmosphere at Don's Pomeroy House is hauntingly beautiful.
Perhaps members of the Pomeroy family hung around their home so long after their passing to keep on an eye on family members and then to scare off vandals after family finally moved out. And who can blame them for hanging around after the home became a restaurant?! If your home was full of laughter, fun, and delicious dining, you'd probably hang around, too.
While you're in the area, be sure to check out the local Cleveland Metroparks reservation.
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