Best Bites of 2020

As we kick off this new year, I want to reflect back on my best bites of 2020. It may have been more challenging than other years, but we found ways to check out new restaurants and continue to support those that we love. Here is a roundup (in no particular order) of the best dishes in Cleveland that I had last year.

Beef Argentina taco from Half Moon Bakery

Jerk Chicken bowl (Box-it pictured) from Irie Jamaican Kitchen

Sriracha Cheese Curds from Great Lakes Brewing Co.

Almost the entire meal at Zhug, but particularly the Warm White Beans and the Harissa Peanut Hummus

Radicchio salad from Rosso Italia

Sandwich Night carry-out special at The Black Pig

Croissant (and Focaccia and Italian Sandwich...) from Leavened

Flavor Burst from Independence Dairy King

O.G. Roni pizza from Good Meal Jane

Moqueca Baiana from Batuqui

Share some of your favorite dishes that you tried last year in the comments. Any new restaurants that you discovered that you've returned to again and again?

The year wasn't complete crap. We developed some new hobbies, enjoyed a slower lifestyle, focused on what matters most to us, and still enjoyed many wonderful meals and supporting local businesses. But here's hoping there's even more in store for 2021!

Irie Jamaican Kitchen Opens West Side Location

The popular Irie Jamaican Kitchen in Euclid opened a west side location in the heart of Old Brooklyn recently, and the neighborhood was anxiously awaiting for its doors to open.

Located just moments from the zoo on Pearl Road, and with an approachable "build-your-own" style of menu, it will be a perfect option for families and quick takeout in the neighborhood.

Pictured here is the Jerk Chicken ($9.99) from their "Box It" section of the menu. A generous helping of two meats, it was perfect for splitting for lunch. All "traditional" plates come with a side of Rice and Peas (red beans), Cabbage, and Plantains.

All of the sides were very good and helped enhance the spicy kick of the jerk seasoning. My mom used to cook jerk chicken quite a bit when I was young, so I love it!

We also ordered a side of the Mac & Cheese ($2.50), which was only ok. It just wasn't creamy enough for us.

However, one section of their menu features Mac & Cheese and you top it with any of the meats. I saw one order come out from the kitchen (instead of from the warming trays the side dish was served from), so perhaps the fresher Mac & Cheese is creamier. Something tells me that Mr. H will be trying this soon.

Overall, the food was incredibly flavorful and with generous portions at a low price point. I think it will do well in the neighborhood. I also look forward to customizing my order a bit more with their "Jahpotle" style of choosing up to 4 toppings like cucumber salad, mango sauce, and pineapple coleslaw. We just wanted to stick to the basics this time to get a real feel of the flavors. 

Irie Jamaican Kitchen West

4162 Pearl Road
Cleveland, OH 44109
(216) 291-7488

Irie East
621 East 185th
Euclid, OH