2011 grad now Head Bartender Willie L seen here preparing my dirty martini. It was awesome as is the atmosphere and service. Looking good! Checkout that glass! Also 2011 grad Gianna and Willie at their favorite spot. The food was great, especially the walleye and spaghetti w meatballs. Thanks for everything see you soon. Nida Italia located in Little Italy.


Jessica 2006 grad showing her skills and smile while making my Captain & Coke. Looking good! She has worked at Shalala, Tino's, and Fridays. She is seen here at Jacks Bar and Grill in South Euclid on Friday.

 

Deanna, a current student and owner of Anthony's located in Little Italy is raising a bottle of wine as a toast. They just added alcohol to the menu. She is finishing class just in time to set up her bar and serve cocktails beginning in March. Way to go D glad we could help.

Club Isabella has made an impressive comeback. We enjoyed this jazz club back in the 20th century but the new  C.I is back with a vengence. It was very well decorated, intimate dining area with the bar at your finger tips. Fresh made libations starting with the lemon, basil martini, menu is different but good and Isabella has a open lounge area.

Club Isabella is located in Little Italy at the corner of Random Road & Cornell Road.

 





Basil Lemonade Martini

In a mixing glass muddle basil
Fill glass half with ice
2oz Kettle One Citrus Vodka
Fresh lemon and hint of basil syrup
Shake or swirl to mix and chill and serve in chilled martini glass

We decided to take a trip off the reservation and visit two places not on our sweet 16 list. First up is The Washington Place Inn in Little Italy.  It’s a beautiful historic place restored with a chic modern décor. The dining room is bright and inviting, a great place to enjoy drinks and conversation.  Everything was very modern, decorated with sleek metals and warm woods.

The menu is impressive, with several eye and palate pleasing choices. The drink menu is just as awe inspiring. Will had been there before and decided to refresh his memory and have a side car. He said it was definitely as good as he remembered, and he’d be back to try it again, third time’s a charm! They make their side car a little different that you may be used to. The use 1oz of Hennessy V.S., 1 ½ oz St. Germain’s, and 1 ½ oz Hendrick’s  Gin, they mix that with a splash of Stirrings Ginger Syrup, a splash of lemon juice and a splash of apple juice. They’re delicious but they can really sneak up on you!

Our other trip was to Burntwood  Tavern in Chagrin Falls. The place is everything the name suggests. The building is all brick inside and out with beautiful wood floors and trim. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the lounge is filled with wood tables to sit at and enjoy company. The copper top bar is eye catching and excellent place to take in your surroundings and have a drink. There are also three decks outside to enjoy the warmer weather. The place has been packed since they opened, which is great because they are the first restaurant to do well in this building.

Will decided to be adventurous and try their signature drink, A Pear of Cukes. This drink is made with pear vodka, 2 slices of cucumber, and sweet and sour mix. The flavors go well together and make a light and refreshing drink. Great to enjoy on one of the three decks while you watch the sun go down. We will definitely visit this fantastic friendly tavern again!