20 Best Restaurants in Cleveland, TN

This article was written by local contributor Violet Thomas & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Violet Thomas

Jun 18, 2023 • 15 min read

Welcome to Cleveland, Tennessee, my charming little hometown, with a vibrant food scene that will simply blow your taste buds away!

Having lived here for years, I've had the pleasure of experiencing some of the most delightful flavors this small town has to offer.

From mouthwatering barbecue to authentic ethnic cuisine, Cleveland's restaurant scene has something to suit everyone's palate.

So come along with me as I share with you some of my all-time favorite spots to wine, dine, and unwind in our beloved city.

Trust me, after this culinary journey through the best restaurants in Cleveland, Tennessee, you'll be sure to call the town a true food lover's paradise!

Rice N Go

I am so grateful to have a restaurant like Rice N Go in my neighborhood!

Their Korean cuisine is truly authentic and always leaves my taste buds craving for more.

With generous portions and full-flavored dishes, it's impossible not to fall in love with this place.

The atmosphere at Rice N Go is both fun and welcoming, with K-pop tunes playing in the background.

The restaurant itself is always clean and well-organized, which is a huge plus for me.

As a Korean food lover, I cannot recommend this place enough.

From bulgogi bowls to spicy pork bowls and even Korean corndogs, every dish is simply amazing.

Plus, the fact that they make fresh kimchi in-house just adds to the already fantastic dining experience.

Biskit NV

I can't believe I waited so long to finally try Biskit NV!

This gem of a restaurant truly deserves all the praise it receives.

As for the food – it was nothing short of amazing.

I tried the Mr. V and the Loaded Rooster, and both were heavenly.

The biscuits were enormous and so fluffy that they almost melted in my mouth.

I also ordered a couple of sides, but I quickly realized that the portions were so generous that I didn't even need them.

On my visit, the restaurant was quite busy, so I decided to share my table with a mother and her son.

It was such an enjoyable experience, and it's clear that Biskit NV is a place beloved by people of all ages.

Rico Deli & More

I recently dined at Rico Deli & More, a charming Puerto Rican restaurant in my neighborhood.

As soon as I walked in, I was reminded of my Abuela's warm and inviting kitchen.

The authentic flavors of the food took me straight back to my childhood.

I was particularly excited to find sofrito on their menu - a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine that I grew up enjoying.

Of course, I had to buy some to take home for my own cooking.

On my visit, I tried their appetizer sampler, which was a feast in itself.

Our bill for three people came out to $60, but we definitely ordered too much food.

You can easily get a satisfying meal for around $10 per person, including a drink.

The Cuban sandwich was a standout dish, easily one of the best I've ever had.

True

I recently visited True for a date night with my significant other, and it was an evening to remember.

This rustic-chic bistro offers Southern cooking with a creative twist, which elevates the dining experience.

The ambiance was relaxing and inviting, and their biodynamic wine and beer selection didn't disappoint.

The food was absolutely phenomenal.

I started with the wedge salad, which was hands down the best I've ever had.

The Bleu cheese dressing was delicious without being overpowering, and the bacon pieces were crispy and not too salty.

For my main course, I tried True Pasta, a delightful dish with house-made pasta, shrimp, lemon Cajun butter, tomatoes, and basil.

I can't even begin to describe how good it was.

My partner also thoroughly enjoyed their Margherita Pizza.

The service at True was exceptional, too.

The Press

Just the other day, I had the pleasure of stopping by The Press for their infamous Sunday brunch.

This gastropub and wine bar, located in the same building as Mash and Hops microbrew pub, is a true gem in our town.

I immediately noticed the unique long and thin indoor layout, which makes social distancing effortless, and the outdoor patio dining option also caught my eye.

But the true star of the show was the food.

I decided to try their Biscuits and Gravy Casserole and the Blackberry French Toast Casserole, and let me tell you, both dishes were out-of-this-world delicious!

To top it all off, I couldn't resist ordering their Mimosa Flight, which was nothing short of spectacular.

Spoonys Seafood Restaurant

I had been hearing a lot about Spoonys from friends and online reviews, so I decided to give it a try when my son visited us.

The catfish dish was delicious, and we all enjoyed the fried okra as well.

My son and partner tried the Philly Cheesesteak and Chicken Philly sandwiches, which they liked, but they felt that the bread could have been toasted for better texture.

The onion rings side order was a bit small and not as hot as the other items.

We also ordered a half-gallon of Pineapple Tea, which was a hit with everyone.

Gg's Restaurant

I recently decided to give Gg's Restaurant a try, and I was not disappointed.

The double cheeseburger I ordered was fantastic, and the onion rings were phenomenal when dipped in the Gg's sauce.

But my visit didn't just stop at the burger.

On another occasion, I tried their garlic burger, which was juicy, flavorful, and cooked just right.

The onion rings, and fries were also terrific, not too breaded but crisp and tasty.

What really stood out for me was the pinto beans and cornbread, which instantly transported me back to my grandma's kitchen.

My partner's BBQ burger was also a hit, though it did require a few extra napkins.

Naan House Cleveland

I was beyond thrilled when I found out that there's finally an Indian restaurant in Cleveland.

Trust me when I say that Naan House Cleveland has become my go-to spot for amazing Indian cuisine.

I've been visiting this place for several months now, and I'm still in awe of how delicious and fresh their food is!

My personal favorite is the Malai Kofta with Garlic Naan and their mouthwatering Samosas.

Their Aloo Gobi also tastes incredible and has the perfect balance of flavors.

My partner, on the other hand, swears by their Chicken Vindaloo and Tikka Masala.

And if you're into spicy food, you can always ask for the FIRE to spice things up.

Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

One of the best things about Naan House Cleveland is that they cater to all tastes and spice levels, making it a great place for anyone who loves Indian food or wants to try it for the first time.

The service is always fantastic, and the food is worth every penny.

Little Diner

Little Diner on 1st has become my favorite breakfast place in Cleveland, TN.

You can check them out on Facebook.

As soon as you walk in, you're greeted by a warm atmosphere and lots of antiques and signs to look at.

I remember my first visit on a busy Saturday morning; even though it was packed, we were served quickly, and the food was worth the wait.

I often opt for the breakfast special - at just $4.99, it's a steal!

You get two eggs, two bacon, and two pancakes, which is the perfect amount to fill you up.

I've also tried the Cleveland special for $6.99, and the biscuits are simply amazing.

Cafe Roma

The other day, I decided to finally try out Cafe Roma, the Italian restaurant in our town that has been getting such great reviews.

I've been hearing a lot about the traditional Italian dishes, seasonal specialties, and their lovely rustic ambiance, so I was pretty excited to dine there.

I ordered the Sun-dried tomato pollo chicken shrimp, expecting a flavorful dish.

My partner ordered the spinach goat cheese lasagna, which was absolutely delicious.

As for dessert, the bread pudding was a winner, and the cheesecake paired with Jack Daniel's ice cream was utterly divine.

Kang's Boba House

I recently had the chance to try out Kang's Boba House since I was craving some ramen, and it's quite close to my place.

I have to admit that their tonkotsu ramen was quite delicious and well-priced.

It was a pretty straightforward process as they are not taking sit-down orders, so I scanned their QR code and placed my order through their online menu.

Although I thought the broth of my ramen was quite flavorful, I have read some mixed reviews about their seasoning and portion sizes.

Personally, I found the portion to be generous enough for my needs.

My ramen came with some dumplings and pork belly, which I enjoyed.

It took around 15 minutes for my order to be ready, and I appreciated the convenience of a quick ramen fix close to home.

Farmhouse Cleveland

One day, my friends and I finally decided to give Farmhouse Cleveland a try, and it did not disappoint!

As soon as we stepped in, we were greeted with the warm and cozy atmosphere, tastefully decorated with Christmas items that made us feel right at home.

The food was, as expected, delicious, and the portions were generous, all while being reasonably priced.

My grilled chicken salad was perfect for my blood sugar, but I couldn't help but notice the other dishes being served around me, all looking and smelling amazing.

I'm so glad we finally decided to visit Farmhouse Cleveland, and I'm proud to support a small local business that truly cares about its customers and offers such a delightful dining experience.

Springplace Takeout

Just the other day, I decided to grab lunch from my all-time favorite spot, Springplace Takeout.

This hamburger restaurant, which is nestled in our neighborhood, has undoubtedly become a part of my weekly routine.

Let me tell you, the burgers here are simply out of this world.

The seasoning, the juiciness, and the perfect balance of flavors make them, hands down, the best burgers I have ever had.

The people running this place are not only incredibly friendly, but they also make you feel right at home.

It's quite evident that most of the customers are locals, which only adds to the warmth and familiarity at Springplace Takeout.

I highly recommend trying their double bacon cheeseburger – it's not just the best I've ever had, but it's also one of the freshest, most satisfying burgers I've ever eaten.

Aside from the burgers, Springplace Takeout also has a fantastic selection of sides.

I particularly love their onion rings, which remind me of the delicious, home-cooked food my me-maw used to make.

The prices here are great, and the memories of my childhood shake shack make it all the more special.

Cameron's

One of my favorite places for breakfast in the neighborhood is Cameron's.

I can't emphasize enough how much I enjoy their incredibly huge homemade biscuits!

They taste even better than they look and trust me, they look fantastic.

The best part is that I can have breakfast all the way till they close at 2 pm, which is perfect for me since I like to sleep late.

Cameron's is a hidden gem in Cleveland.

Their breakfast buffet on Fridays and weekends is truly a bang for the buck at just $10 + drink, and I believe it's the only place in town where you can still enjoy a breakfast buffet.

The food is always delicious, and the portions are more than generous.

City Cafe Diner

City Cafe Diner is an old-school 24/7 diner that offers a diverse selection of meals, with generous portions of American fare, an all-day breakfast, and mouthwatering desserts.

From classic breakfast food to Greek dishes, City Cafe Diner truly has something for everyone.

I appreciate their attentiveness, making sure my dining experience is pleasant and enjoyable every time.

I've tried various menu items, and they've never disappointed me.

The chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce is a personal favorite, and it's unforgettable.

I've also seen other patrons enjoy their pasta dishes, which I'm looking forward to trying on my next visit.

Aside from the delicious food, the diner maintains a clean and comfortable atmosphere, even during the less busy hours.

The spacious bathroom is always spotless, which is a huge plus for me.

As a dessert lover, I can't resist checking out their extensive cake selection, which is a perfect way to end a meal.

Pupuseria Marelyn #2

If you're in the mood for some delicious and authentic Central American cuisine, Pupuseria Marelyn #2 is the spot to go in our neighborhood.

I've been there numerous times and have always been impressed with their vast menu and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The service is always on point, and the pupusas, oh, the pupusas!

They are hands down the best I've ever had.

With a variety of pupusas to choose from, you'll never run out of options to try.

I am also a big fan of their tamales and the refreshing pineapple agua fresca.

The place has a laid-back and relaxed vibe, which is perfect for a casual and enjoyable meal.

While it's true that it might be empty at times, it doesn't take away from the quality and taste of the food.

It's just an opportunity for us locals to enjoy a hidden gem in our community.

Pupuseria Marelyn #2 is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience.

With each visit, I find myself trying new dishes and falling in love with the flavors.

Their horchata, for example, has become a personal favorite.

Tacos El Don Mexican Kitchen

I've already tried various places for Mexican food in the area, but one of my favorites is Tacos El Don Mexican Kitchen.

The first time I visited, I remember how excited I was to try their Quesabirria, and it didn't disappoint.

The consome-soaked tortillas, perfectly cooked meat, and melty cheese had me hooked.

Since then, I've tried various dishes from their menu, including fish, barbacoa, and birrio tacos - all of them have been delicious.

However, my absolute favorites are their chorizo enchiladas and chicken crispy tacos.

The fact that you get four of each for just $7 is an incredible deal.

I haven't had a chance to try their empanadas yet, but they look amazing too, and I'm sure I won't be disappointed.

Fuji Teriyaki Express

Whenever I'm craving some Asian cuisine, I often find myself heading to Fuji Teriyaki Express.

It's an unassuming restaurant located in a narrow, contemporary space that offers a variety of delicious dishes.

Though some may find the food a bit greasy or the portions to be lacking in meat, I personally love their house soup and the drunken noodle dish.

My partner is a big fan of their Thai fried rice as well.

One thing I appreciate about Fuji Teriyaki Express is their fast and friendly service.

They also have a special sauce that you can add to your meal, which tastes like a delicious mayo.

The prices are quite reasonable, making it easy to enjoy a tasty meal without breaking the bank.

It's a little hole in the wall, but the charm of the place makes it all the more special.

Steam Boys Cleveland

I recently decided to try out Steam Boys Cleveland, a Chinese restaurant that opened up in my neighborhood.

I was really excited to check it out, especially because it offers something different to the area.

The location is clean, inviting, and has easy access.

I appreciated the casual dining experience - you simply order at the counter, pay, and place a table number where you seat so the food can be brought to you.

The portions were ample, and the service was quick and pleasant.

Kumo Asian Garden

My other go-to Japanese restaurant in town has to be Kumo Asian Garden.

I've always been a fan of their food, especially their sushi.

I've had sushi from Florida to California, and this place has some of the best I've tasted.

The fish cuts are generous, and even my 10-year-old loves it, which is saying something because she's very picky.

Their hot and sour soup is also the best anywhere.

When it comes to hibachi, I ordered a senior-size chicken hibachi, mixed vegetables, and fried rice lunch last time I was there.

The portions were quite generous, and the taste was great with fresh ingredients.

My partner ordered the shrimp hibachi and told me he'd eat it there again.

We both enjoyed our meals for under $20, which is quite a deal.

The variety of menu choices at Kumo Asian Garden is also impressive.

There are lots of sushi and sashimi choices, as well as hibachi options.

Final Thoughts

I must say that my taste buds have been on quite the adventure while exploring the diverse and vibrant culinary scene in Cleveland, Tennessee.

From the mouth-watering tacos at Tacos El Don Mexican Kitchen to the refreshing Pelican's Snoballs on a hot summer day, there's something to satisfy every craving.

I can't wait to return to my favorites and continue discovering new gems in this wonderful city.

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