There are a bunch of reasons to head to Chagrin Falls. You can admire the waterfall, breathe air that’s fresh (by admittedly Ohio standards), and enjoy a meal without having to worry about parking or reservations. And some of the best dining real estate in town isn’t actually on the main street – it’s tucked away on side roads. Whether you end up near the falls or up the hill, here are 16 great spots to eat, all of which are casual enough to walk into wearing whatever you wore to see the sights.
Bummin’ Beaver Brewery
$$ | (440) 543-9900 | WEBSITE
There are now countless breweries around Chagrin Falls, and by the time you read this, that number may have doubled or tripled. Their formula is pretty simple: offer enough rotating beers to convince people they’re exploring new flavors even if they also stick with the refreshing tart Gose, and serve these very good brews all-day in cozy spaces where you can show up with your dog. It works, so take advantage when you find yourself craving a friendly pint with live music and trivia.
Yours Truly Chagrin Falls
$ | (440) 247-3232 | WEBSITE
If you find yourself in Chagrin Falls on a weekend morning, then you probably shouldn’t head to Yours Truly, unless you’re prepared to wait behind a dozen families with strollers while the hostess tries to find a table. Also, please tell us what your secret is for getting the kids up and dressed before 10 a.m. on a Saturday. But any other time of the day, it’s a solid choice for a comforting meal.
Grab a plate of classic diner fare, like their General Tso’s chicken or a breakfast skillet, and enjoy it at one of the outdoor tables when the weather’s nice.
Jude’s Sports Page Tavern
$ | (440) 543-1575 | WEBSITE
Sports bars are casual places, and Jude’s Sports Page Tavern, with its worn-in bar stools and dive bar feel, is no exception. But just because you can walk into this Chagrin Falls spot in jeans and a t-shirt doesn’t mean you have to settle for mediocre pub grub. Instead, this place serves top-notch takes on sports bar classics, like their must-try chicken wings that keep regulars coming back year after year.
The atmosphere stays lively with ice-cold drinks and bartenders who strike up conversations with everyone, making it feel welcoming and comfy from the moment you walk in.
M Italian
$ | (440) 247-7474 | WEBSITE
If you’ve just finished a long day exploring the charming boutiques and waterfalls of Chagrin Falls, you’re going to want something more rewarding than a simple snack. Luckily, M Italian is right there in the heart of town, ready to welcome you. Head straight in after your stroll, and treat yourself to their fabulous lobster and shrimp pasta, or perhaps the acclaimed eggplant parmesan, followed by a slice of their rich, comforting lasagna.
With servers like Theresa and Kris offering warm, attentive recommendations in the classy, trendy atmosphere—complete with great indoor and outdoor seating—it’s the perfect spot to refuel and celebrate.
Cowboy Food & Drink
$ | (440) 708-1011 | WEBSITE
It can be a bit of a shock to leave the quiet charm of Chagrin Falls’ main street, with its boutique shops and historic buildings, and enter the lively atmosphere that is Cowboy Food & Drink. Instead of wandering around looking for a family-friendly spot with character, just head straight to this hidden gem. It’s a casual BBQ restaurant that serves some of our favorite food in town, like the in-house smoked prime rib and the creamy mac n cheese.
Dave’s Cosmic Subs
$ | (440) 247-9117 | WEBSITE
Sandwich cravings are known as a lunchtime ritual, but we don’t see why they can’t also be a perfect dinner solution. Rather than question our lack of restraint when it comes to carbs, just agree with us, and grab a delicious sub at Dave’s Cosmic Subs after your stroll through Chagrin Falls.
This sandwich spot is a great casual hangout option in case eating is a group activity for you, and there’s also a lively dining area where you can enjoy a massive tuna sub customized to your liking by yourself. Just remember to bring your appetite – most subs run about $12-15, and they’re worth every penny.
Coyote Mexican Grill & Cantina
$$ | (440) 543-0454 | WEBSITE
Coyote Mexican Grill & Cantina looks like your standard Mexican spot, and you could just stop by for chips and salsa, but this Chagrin Falls restaurant serves food you’ll want to sit down and enjoy. We like the wide selection of choices – especially the perfectly cooked steak and the seafood burrito that comes packed with fresh ingredients – and if you don’t want to commit to a full meal, definitely try the phenomenal coleslaw that accompanies the chips.
If you’re dining with family, take advantage of the kid-friendly options, and watch the efficient service from waiters like Hector, who provides a personal touch throughout your meal.
Aladdin’s Eatery Bainbridge
$ | (440) 708-0088 | WEBSITE
To say that you have to deal with crowds when visiting Chagrin Falls would be an understatement. If you want to eat somewhere that won’t be packed with tourists wearing cameras around their necks, go to Aladdin’s Eatery Bainbridge, a casual Mediterranean spot in Bainbridge.
Sit at a table in the clean, simple dining room, and eat kabob with Jasmine rice or a vegetable plate with eggplant and garlic puree, which is fresh and costs $14, while watching all of the people you passed in town clog up the sidewalks on their way towards the shops.
Crooked Pecker Brewing Company
$ | (440) 384-3452 | WEBSITE
You know the routine – a Hefeweizen, some food truck tacos, and maybe an IPA. Crooked Pecker is consistent and flavorful, and their Chagrin Falls spot delivers exactly that. This location has the extra appeal of being in a cozy, rustic space with exposed beams and warm lighting, so grab a pint (or order ahead if you’re planning to settle in after work), and enjoy it at the wooden bar while chatting with the knowledgeable staff about the rotating brews.
Zeppe’s Pizzeria
$ | (440) 543-5004 | WEBSITE
You’d like to just order a basic pizza after a long day and call it a night. The problem is that you want something with more character than the frozen pie in your freezer that’s been there since last month. Head to Zeppe’s.
This Chagrin Falls spot feels kind of like your favorite local hangout – it’s a cozy space with rock and roll tunes and photos on the walls (which is just a fun way of saying the atmosphere is lively), but the menu includes things like fresh, hot pizzas with zesty sauce during lunch, and incredible fish and chips for dinner. The friendly staff makes you feel right at home, and you’ll leave remembering why this place is a local favorite.
17 River Grille
$$ | (440) 893-0797 | WEBSITE
The Chagrin Falls waterfalls have plenty in terms of views, and as a result, this tends to be the most scenic of the local restaurants. In fact, you’re probably going to see more people trekking down to the river than you did on the whole drive to this Ohio spot.
Fortunately, the cozy space provides a great view, so invite your whole family or everyone who wished you happy anniversary on Instagram, and order pork chop, rainbow trout, and carrot cake from the menu as you enjoy the sounds of the falls in the elegant, upscale dining room.
Plaza Agave
$ | (440) 543-1186 | WEBSITE
It’s always tricky to decide what kind of Mexican food you’re craving, and when you can’t tell if you want something light and fresh or a hearty, indulgent meal, it’s hard to settle on a restaurant. That’s why you should know about Plaza Agave.
This Chagrin Falls spot offers a great variety of authentic Mexican dishes – from fresh, flavorful options to satisfying, generous plates – and whether you’re in the mood for mouth-watering fish tacos with spicy salsa, or you want a steak fajita burrito packed with savory fillings, you’ll be happy here. The portions are large and reasonably priced, the service is attentive and kind, and the atmosphere is nice with a patio for outdoor seating.
While the interior is pleasant, the outdoor area could use some better lighting and clearer signage. Overall, it’s considered the best Mexican restaurant in the area, offering great food and service that makes planning your meal easy.
Lemon Falls Cafe/Marketplace
$ | (440) 247-8000 | WEBSITE
Lemon Falls Cafe isn’t right on the main drag like some other Chagrin Falls spots in this guide, but you won’t mind those extra steps once you arrive. Since it’s tucked a bit away from the busiest downtown foot traffic, it’s not overwhelmed with crowds despite the cozy seating for about twenty and that wonderful aroma of simmering pasta sauce.
Also, that short walk might just make room for you to sample more of the homemade pastries, like those delicious blueberry scones or the outstanding avocado toast. Stop by after a morning stroll and try one of the breakfast sandwiches, or meet some friends here in the afternoon for a cup of coffee, tea, or one of their fantastic soups.
Pizzeria DiLauro
$ | (440) 384-3947 | WEBSITE
Chagrin Falls is a quiet place on weekdays, when the waterfall trickles softly, and families stroll leisurely down otherwise empty streets like locals enjoying the scenery. But when you get off of the main road, you should follow the locals and head for Pizzeria DiLauro. This fantastic pizzeria stands out from all of the chain restaurants nearby with its family-friendly dining room, large screen TVs, and colorful cocktails.
Start with the salad with locally grown lettuce and homemade dressings and a grapefruit margarita from the full bar, and the weekend crowds won’t seem quite as busy. The Luca pizza with pepperoni, pickled jalapenos, and a drizzle of hot honey is praised for its beautiful, thin, crunchy crust and light sauce, and the homemade cannoli, especially the orange cream flavor, is highly recommended.
With quick service, a casual atmosphere, and friendly staff, it’s a great place to enjoy a tasty meal, though arriving early on weekends is advised.
Pizza Connection
$ | (440) 248-3020 | WEBSITE
Pizza Connection is open for takeout every day from 11am-9pm, and whenever you order from this family-run pizzeria in Chagrin Falls, three things are for certain. First, you won’t spend more than $20 on any single pizza; second, you should have the garlic white pizza with whipped ricotta – a rustic crust topped with fresh ingredients and that nice chew – on your order. And third, you’ll enjoy everything you eat.
Generally, the solid pizzas and subs are best here, but if you don’t mind ending your meal with something sweet, then try the gelato, especially the vanilla and salted caramel flavors.
Washington Street Diner
$ | (440) 375-6789 | WEBSITE
It’s a lazy Sunday morning, which is the main reason you were able to convince yourself to skip the usual cereal and head out for a proper breakfast. And now that you’re up and dressed, you want to continue enjoying the weekend vibe and eat somewhere cozy. Head to Washington Street Diner, the traditional American spot in Chagrin Falls with the friendly staff and comfortable atmosphere.
The entirely-welcoming space is right on Washington Street, and it’s a great place to have pattymelt, sweet potato fries, homemade corn beef hash, and French toast on the regular day when you need a reliable and enjoyable meal without any fuss.