Cordelia

I'm not typically inclined to go to restaurants. With having to handle issues being gluten free (coeliac) and lack of general knowledge, it doesn't usually end up as a good time for me. Cordelia was not any of that. Despite a minor misunderstanding from the hostess/host stand, Hannah our server was super knowledgeable about gluten free and the difference between gluten free and coeliac friendly foods. She marked everything that could be adapted or that were coeliac safe. On top of answering my hundreds of questions, she handled them with ease and enthusiasm that made me feel less like a burden and more cherished as a person. Been making a list of places that I would love to show to ppl who come and visit and that showcase a diversity of flavour and considerations for dietary restrictions and Cordelia has jumped high in that list.

An absolute gem in Cleveland and my husband’s and my new favorite spot! The restaurant was so accommodating to our party of four, and the decor and ambiance were incredible (even down to the details of the bathroom). We tried the Saz-Who drink, Caesar tartare, JoJos, pimento cheese, burger box, and the fried ice cream Almond Joy dessert (so delicious!). As someone with a less adventurous palate, I was a little reluctant at first, but everything was AMAZING. We even plan to come back with my MIL who is gluten-free because they seem accommodating to GF folks. I love that everything is locally sourced—it’s such a cool touch. Our server, Zaq (sp?), was incredibly personable, attentive, and really knowledgeable about the menu. You can tell by his enthusiasm that he had a passion for the place, that is energy you don't usually see when you go out to dinner. You can tell that so much heart and soul has been put into this place, and we’re so lucky to have it here in our city.

A flavorful extravaganza! Cordelia is one of the most underrated restaurants in Cleveland, period. It has been a few years since I've been on East 4th Street. I remember this used to be Lola's, which had an incredible duck dish. Cordelia's belly-up menu is sensational. It's a six to eight course meal. Each dish is brought out by a chef as they describe in detail exactly how the food was prepared and what to expect while eating it. This was my first time dining here and I was not disappointed. This is a from scratch kitchen so each dish is prepared to order and the menu is constantly changing so week to week or month to month the flavors will vary. This is definitely an experience you have to try more than once throughout the year and season to see what intensely bold and flavorful concoctions the chefs will curate for your dining experience. The ambiance was perfect for us millennials as they were playing early 2000s and 90s hip-hop and R&B. It felt like we were getting our own personalized concert as we were just jamming and enjoying some great quality food. With so many amazing entrees, the highlight for the evening for me was certainly the lamb that was perfectly seasoned. Easily the most succulent protein that I've ever had. Each bite melted into your mouth and the dish was paired alongside a bed of roasted carrots with a yogurt sauce that was a great complement. Right when I thought the savory floodgates were over they brought out their signature pork belly. Which by this point our belly’s were quite literally up and over or belts with no room left. They kindly boxed up the last entree for us and brought out the final course. The first dessert we shared a gluten free pudding with rice cake, caramel and bit of an espresso topping. The second dessert was an all spice forward ice cream with apples and puff pastry. Both delicious. It was a delightful and truly one of a kind experience right in the heart of downtown Cleveland. That’s enough reading long reviews lol go reserve a table now and bring all the appetite you can muster; you’re going to need it.