Cleveland Finds: One Red Door

One Red Door

Fans of "Cleveland Finds" have probably noticed my predilection towards more casual eateries. This will be different.

Cleveland is actually home to a great deal of wonderful higher end dining experience. Off the top of my mind, Lola, Dante and L'Albatros are all fantastic restaurants worth trying. However, my personal favorite place for higher end dining in the Cleveland area has been One Red Door. I think it doesn't get as much press as these other restaurants because it's located in the beautiful town of Hudson, about 40 minutes away from downtown Cleveland. But I think the ambiance and quality of the food is competitive with these other restaurants, if not superior. Also, the prices are better than the afore mentioned restaurants. 

One Red Door offers two ways of eating: you can construct a meal simply from the many appetizers and small plates. Or you can just go for a larger plate. Jane and I split the difference, starting with an appetizer before getting a huge main plate.

 

Crispy Manchego Cheese - So freaking good... Possibly one of the best things I've eaten so far this year. The honey and paprika on top really elevates this dish to incredible heights.

Ribeye - This contends with the rib-eye at Lola as the best steak I've had in Cleveland. Crusted with a porticini mushroom crust and cooked absolutely perfectly, it had a crispy crust and a melt in your mouth tenderness. Moreover, since Jane and I were sharing, they split it in the kitchen, a touch I appreciated. (the pic is of half a steak!!!) Sides of fried brussell sprouts and cannellini beans only added to the greatness of this dish. If you like beef, order this.

The menu changes seasonally, so there's no guarantees these dishes will stay on the menu (though they should). If you find yourself with a bit more cash or wanna impress some special someone, I highly recommend One Red Door. 

- JK