When you think of an old-school Jewish deli, what comes to mind? A cold cut platter, bagels, or maybe a slice of challah? You're probably imagining this destination in a highly trafficked spot like New York City, but there's a mouthwatering restaurant and deli in Greater Cleveland that has this and more. Enter Corky & Lenny's, a long-standing stalwart of classic Cleveland cuisine whose menu is as wide-ranging as its clientele. It's located in a no-frills strip mall that may be hard to miss at first glance, but this iconic restaurant is modestly legendary. Check it out:
Back in 1956, Sanford “Corky” Kurland and Lenny Kaden dreamed up a New York-style deli in Cleveland.
Thus, Corky & Lenny's was born. Their first location opened in South Euclid Cedar Center, and it was an instant hit. Ever since their debut, locals have raved about the delicious offerings at this cool Cleveland restaurant.
While it has occupied a few different spots over the years, the current location of this restaurant and deli opened in Woodmere in 1973.
And, as mentioned, it is both a restaurant and deli. You can dine in, carry out, or grab some goodies to go from the deli counter. Whatever you decide to do, you'll be treated with service that has been legendary since 1956.
At first glance, it's easy to miss Corky & Lenny's. But one visit is enough to show you that this Cleveland staple is beloved.
The ambiance is surprisingly energetic, as Corky & Lenny's is truly where people meet to eat. Families and friends come together over the promise of good food, but the free smells and home-away-from-home milieu makes it easy to stay for a spell.
They're known for larger-than-life sandwiches...
If you're a hungry, a Corky & Lenny's sandwich will definitely fill you right up! Brisket, tuna, meatloaf, veggies... you name it and they've made it.
... And famously mouthwatering soups.
The soups at Corky & Lenny's are truly delicious, but their matzo balls are what diners rave about most. If you've never had a matzo ball, it's a Ashkenazi Jewish soup dumpling that's particularly popular in Eastern Europe. Corky & Lenny's is one of the most palatable places to try this dish!
Dining in is a treat like no other, as the vibe and the food simply can't be beat.
There's truly something for everyone here. The menu is almost unbelievably lengthy, and even the pickiest of eaters will find something delicious to tickle their taste buds.
Of course, there's something to be said for their delicious carryout, too!
Sometimes, comfort food is best enjoyed at home. Grab a to-go order and see just how good these Cleveland favorites are at home!
As a formal heads up, you should know that Corky & Lenny's is one of the corned beef landmarks in The Land.
Corned beef is a Cleveland staple, and this restaurant and deli does it with a particular flare. But if you're a fan of corned beef, then this dish belongs on your local dining bucket list!
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Rhode Island, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Maine, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Massachusetts, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
...But don't fill up too much, because there's a mouthwatering dessert waiting at the end of your meal.
Of course, you can always grab this to-go, too! As with the entrees, the size of these desserts will knock your socks off.
Deliciousness awaits at Corky & Lenny's!
Visit this landmark restaurant and deli at 27091 Chagrin Blvd, Woodmere, OH 44122.
Patrons from all over the state adore this Greater Cleveland restaurant and deli, and it's plain to see why. They say a picture is worth a thousand words but, believe it or not, these dishes look even better IRL. What's your favorite item at Corky & Lenny's? Tell us in the comments!
Love local dining? Check out these other restaurants on the East Side of Cleveland for additional bucket list destinations.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!