The Walkable Ohio Town That’s Known for Its Delicious Food Scene

The most splendid thing about the United States is that our cultural diversity allows us, in many cases, to travel the world without leaving our own backyards. This may not be the case in every state, but in Ohio, we have many unique neighborhoods that have popped up over the years, preserving the stories (and, perhaps more importantly, family recipes) of individuals who have settled here, regardless of where their roots lay. In Cleveland, one of the most notable cultural enclaves is Little Italy, a vibrant neighborhood where food brings people together in a magical way. Whether you embark on a foodie tour or spend your time meandering and soaking up the vibes, you're bound to love this neighborhood.

Way back in 1885, a cluster of Italian communities sprung up around Cleveland, with Little Italy being the most memorable. Its proximity to Lake View Cemetery helped it secure its prominence: Many of the Italian residents brought with them knowledge of marblework, and the need for local stonemasons at the cemetery kept people busy. That, of course, was just the tip of the iceberg when it came to cultural crafts that flourished in this neighborhood.

Garment making, art, and food fueled local businesses, which ushered in the modern era of Cleveland's Little Italy. Today, the neighborhood's historic charm continues to delight visitors, and unique shops, storefronts, and galleries keep foot traffic steady. That is, if visitors aren't too full from meals.

More than two dozen restaurants and bakeries dot the neighborhood, and each brings its own unique flair to the local dining scene.

If there's one long-standing institution whose identity is deeply entwined with Little Italy, it's Guarino's. It's the oldest restaurant in Cleveland, dating all the way back to 1918. While Mrs. Guarino's food kept customers coming in, it was the restaurant's creative business tactics during Prohibition that made it such an iconic spot. An intimate, safe, and a friendly place to wet your whistle, it's no wonder locals like Dean Martin made it a regular stop. Even visitors like Frank Sinatra loved to hang out here, and to this day, the restaurant's vibes have changed very little.

While Guarino's is known for its old-school recipes, each restaurant in the neighborhood has its own flair. La Dolce Vita, for example, is cozy and relaxed, feeling a bit like an old family home. No matter where you go, pizza and pasta are likely staples.

Perhaps the most celebrated time to visit this walkable community in Cleveland is during the Feast of the Assumption. Taking place in mid-August each year, this massive celebration kicks off with parades, street food, live music, and endless excitement. It's a Catholic holiday at its core, but Clevelanders celebrate with a flair that's uniquely, well, Cleveland. Thousands of people show up to attend regardless of religious background, and the foodie experience they enjoy is truly next-level.

From stromboli to spaghetti, there's no shortage of snacks during the Feast. While it is indeed a food-centric experience, this celebration is also a great way to honor Italian culture and Cleveland's unique personality. There's something for everyone in Little Italy, but the most important thing to remember is to save room for dessert.

When you visit Little Italy in Cleveland, you immerse yourself in old-school charm that's simply unrivaled in this day and age. There's so much to love about this neat cultural hub in Ohio, but it's undeniable that food is the neighborhood's greatest draw. Breaking bread is a time-honored tradition, and there's no better place to do it than in a welcoming neighborhood that instantly feels like home.

While you're in the area, be sure to budget some time to visit Cleveland Heights. This cool community is also one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Ohio, and it has a unique culture that's well worth exploring. Become an expert-level Ohio explorer on your own by using our Travel Planner to organize your next adventure.