Ohio City, Cleveland

The West Side Market, just one year shy of its Centennial Celebration, anchors one of Cleveland’s proudest neighborhoods on the near west side. Ohio City, formerly the City of Ohio, was once one of Cleveland’s biggest competitors until it was annexed to the City of Cleveland in 1854. At the turn of the century, immigrants from Germany, Hungary, and Ireland moved into this area for jobs on its docks and distilleries. Over 100 years later, Ohio City is home to over 15 ethnic groups representing 25,000 people in a 4.5 square-mile area. Among the new immigrant and migrant groups were Hispanic-Americans, Asian-Americans, Native Americans and people from Appalachia. (information courtesy of Ohio City, Inc.)

The seeds for the brewing business were sowed and beer still reigns supreme in the Ohio City culinary scene. You can’t say Ohio City and not think Great Lakes Brewing Company! Great Lakes helps maintain everything Ohio City residents want their neighborhood to be: sustainable and self-promoting with a nod to Cleveland’s past while focusing on its future. It doesn’t hurt to brew what some think to be the best beer in the country. From Burning River Pale Ale to Eliot Ness Amber Lager, Cleveland’s past is poured into every bottle of their expanding enterprise that is rooted in Ohio City.

GLBC‘s success has encouraged others to join in its beer culture and culinary scene. Restaurants like Momocho, Bier Market, and Old Angle continue to pack in customers every weekend and newcomer Market Garden Brewery opened its doors in 2011.

Ohio City’s residents take a lot of pride in their neighborhood. Its tree-lined streets and front porches make for what might be Cleveland’s best summer living neighborhood. Weekly art shows, ice cream socials (yes..ice cream socials), and regular block parties show off why Ohio City residents are so proud.