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!

The Half Moon Bakery

You may remember, The Half Moon Bakery was on my 2019 To Dine Challenge list. But as the December days wound down, they still hadn't opened their doors on West 25th Street. So I "replaced" it on the Challenge list with something comparable, but was then delighted to learn that they would be ready for business just DAYS into the new year.

We headed there soon after its opening, and the charming bakery immediately won me over. You order at the counter as soon as you walk in, and then there is a large "sweets" display off to your left. Don't overlook it as you focus on ordering their delicious empanadas like we did! Everything looked very tempting.

There is a counter along the window for some seating, if you prefer to eat there. But there was a lot of takeout happening. There's a small parking lot on the side of the building.

The Empanadas range from $2 - $3. We ordered the Pepperoni Pizza (pictured in back below), and then two Tacos. The tacos use the empanada shell, and they were so freakin' good. I'll be getting one every time. Pictured below is the Chicken Taco, but we also ordered their specialty Beef Argentina.

Mr. H also couldn't resist trying the Cuban ($8.99) from the Sandwiches section of the menu (all served with fresh cut fries). They also have a small list of Salads to choose from.

Just look at how thick-cut that pork is!

I had Half Moon's food catered at a meeting once, about three years ago. It was just as good as I remembered! I'm so thrilled that they were able to overcome the hurdles of opening, and that it is so close to home. Do yourself a favor and get in there to try it for yourself.

The Half Moon Bakery

3460 W. 25th Street
Cleveland, OH 44109
(216) 772-2499