The Flying Fig

Cleveland's Flying Fig is a true culinary gem in the city. The Flying Fig is almost a past time in Cleveland's fine dining culture-- a place with such a familiar name that even those who've never even stepped through the doors of the establishment can still say, “Yeah, I've heard good things about that place.”

The inside décor of this Market Street eatery is simple and relaxed, yet sophisticated enough to be crisp and classic. It's upscale with a laid-back twist-- the perfect bistro-style lunch or supper spot for special occasions and simple get-togethers alike.

The menu presents with simplicity and straightforward flavor that is unmatched by other local eateries. The Flying Fig chefs combine the unmistakable flavors of exquisite natural foods, many of which are locally sustained and cultivated, to create dishes that are simple yet complex and satisfying to the palate. The result is unparalleled freshness and flavor that simply cannot be duplicated elsewhere.

To start your meal, consider the tempura battered green beans, which are served hot and crispy with a sweet Ponzu sauce with pineapple caramel, or the fabulous Plum Creek chicken livers, complete with crisp bacon, goat cheese, locally grown arugula and an apricot poblano pepper vinaigrette.

For your meal, try the small plate trio, in which you get to choose three tapas to enjoy for just $24.50. My favorites include the polenta cake, which is crisp and served with a delicate fennel tomato sauce and mascarpone cheese; a sea scallop that is seared and stuffed with lightly braised beef and a spicy horseradish and potato puree; and stuffed banana pepper with spicy Italian sausage and a coulis made with tomato and thyme. The gnocchi, which is made with herbed ricotta and tender rabbit meat, onions and wild mushrooms, is also quite delicious.

Flying Fig's entree selection includes seafood, beef, poultry and vegetarian dishes. The tandoori spiced Plum Hill chicken comes with a curry and coconut basmati rice and a curry-lime butter that provides just the right amount of sweetness and spice. A grilled hangar steak, which is served with local wax beans and green salsa, comes with delicate fingerling potatoes that are cooked in flavorful duck fat. The grilled pork chop is derived from an Ohio farm and served with a sweet peach barbecue sauce that explodes with sweet, smoky flavor.

The restaurant features a fully stocked bar and dozens of local and imported wines. If you aren't sure what wine will best suit your meal selection, ask your server-- they're extremely helpful in assisting you in choosing a good pair.

Dress is business casual and reservations are helpful on busy weekends and for large parties.

 

- by LeeAnn Mullen, Cleveland Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

LeeAnn Mullen

LeeAnn Mullen is a freelance journalist from Cleveland, Ohio. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism is currently furthering her education by studying for an additional degree in information systems management. Mullen has written for several Cleveland-area newspapers, online publications and dozens of private clients. Her topics of specialty include health, technology and travel.