Anatolia Cafe

Located in the heart of artsy Cleveland Heights, the Anatolia Cafe is a unique restaurant featuring authentic Turkish eats and laid-back atmosphere. Local college students, businesspeople and trendy couples alike find this popular eatery to be among the best dinner spots in Cleveland.

 

The lighting is bright during the daytime thanks to the ample windows, but once the sun goes down, the mood at Anatolia becomes just a little romantic as the intensity dims. Outside, a quaint sidewalk cafe becomes the center of attention on Lee Road as it bustles with patrons indulging in robust European wines, delicious humus and tantalizing gossip.

The fare at Anatolia is fresh and truly authentic. Starters like falafel, Turkish olives, Babagannush (mashed eggplant with garlic and tahini), and grape leaves stuffed with pine nuts, currants and dill combine refreshing flavors that dance merrily on your taste buds.

Main course favorites like lamb or filet mignon shishkebabs, cabbage stuffed with beef, rice and garlic yogurt sauce, chicken adana with red peppers and paprika, grilled red snapper, vegetable stew with balsamic vinegar and shrimp sauteed with yogurt sauce are the pillars of Anatolia's menu.

Of course, you can't leave the Anatolia Cafe without having tried their famous Turkish baklava, which features a buttery, flaky, melt-in-your-mouth pastry filled with butter and nuts.

A wide variety of European wines and beers are available at Anatolia's bar alongside traditional mixed drinks.

Reservations are always accepted and are especially helpful on busy weekends. Dress is casual.

 

 

- 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.