The Taste of Tremont, an afternoon filled with food and friends. This is a chance to experience an event unlike any other in a part of Cleveland that’s still reminiscent of its heyday. The Taste of Tremont has something for everyone and for one day only during the heart of summer. If you blink you might miss it!
Tremont is continuing to reassert itself as one of the hot-spots on the west side Cleveland. It has the distinction of being one of the oldest areas in Cleveland with the biggest revival. It has managed to build from within, creating stores and homes from its distinct architecture. This is all done while keeping the character of the community, such as building sized murals or brick lined roads, yet updating the infrastructure. The young, old, and in-between are pouring into Tremont for its affordable living in restored Victorian homes; trendy restaurants like Lolita and classics like Sokolowski’s University Inn; art; shopping; and coffee all spilling around the heart of Tremont, the beautiful Lincoln Park.
The best way to spend eight hours on Sunday, July 15 is to locate yourself directly in the middle and settle in for a food, beer, and a musical event that will not disappoint. If last year was any indication, the crowds will swell to more than 20,000 people, the streets between Starkweather and Fairfield on Professor Avenue will be lined with babies, foodies, hippies, yuppies, and puppies all looking to eat, drink, and be merry at one of the most anticipated summer events. The 10th annual Taste of Tremont, like every year before, is sure to please a variety of palates, even those just looking for a beer.
Speaking of palates yours is sure to be delighted like mine was if the food vendors are anything like last year. More than 15 restaurant booths from the Tremont area tempted pedestrians every few feet. Last year, Lolita, owned by Cleveland’s very own Michael Symon, offered mac and cheese while Fat Cats had the crowd pleasing shrimp rolls. Expect 806 Martini and Wine Bar to offer tapas fresh off its menu and Bac Asian American Bistro and Bar to continue to incorporate southeast Asian flavors in its updated fusion approach. Dante should hopefully make some of its handmade pastas, always a fan favorite, although it could try and compete with Parallax and sell fresh, modern Japanese sushi. Whereever I turned there was something tempting, it was hard to pace myself!
Taste of Tremont will continue to be free admission to the public, but expect to spend some money on food and drinks. The hours remain Noon until 8 p.m. to enjoy the festivities. Street parking will be hard to come by so carpool if you can and get ready to walk.
I’m still excited that Professor Street will remain uncovered, rain or shine, because if you don’t like the weather- true to Cleveland, just wait 10 minutes! Prices for food ranges from $3-$5 dollars and the portion sizes are made to fit in your hand and be carried. The good eats last year were everything from Italian sausage (my favorite) or Chorizo (my second runner-up), chips and dips, eggrolls, pierogies and much more.
Expect shops on Professor Avenue like the Banyan Tree, Piccadilly’s Fine Arts or the Cleveland Auction Company to offer a small pause from the heat, though you may need to purchase something if you want to stay long. One of my favorite stores, the Banyan Tree has amazing clothing, jewelry and accessories, it’s too easy to pass the day away in there. And if all else fails, and the temperature passes 90 degrees like it did last year, make your way over to Tremont Scoops for a tasty treat; handmade ice cream and yogurt. A great ending to a prefect day.
