great takes on family travel in the U.S.

There is plenty of good grub in the Cleveland area, but sometimes by looking outside of the expected area you can find something new to try.

For example, take Salvatore’s Ristorante in Vermilion, OH. It’s a very small, intimate space that probably gets overlooked often because of its location. It’s not in the downtown area right off of Rt. 2 and it’s in a little strip plaza across from a drug store. And yet, you’ll find some of the most delicious authentic Italian food you’ve ever tasted this little eatery.

Be prepared when you walk in the door—you’ll have to walk down a dark hallway that doesn’t seem that welcoming. But once you get inside and see the bar, someone will be there to greet you with a smile on their face. Only after taking a moment to be seated will you note the tacky old-style décor, complete with silver hanging blinds, Italian statues, and dark marble tables with high-back chairs—along with the requisite music by Frank, Dean, or something being sung in Italian by Josh Groban, of course.

You can dress up or down here and families of all types fit in. The wine list is not extensive but decent, and dessert is always a must—the tiramisu is truly wonderful here. You can also spend a little or a lot at Salvatore’s, depending on your taste. When we go we enjoy drinks before and after dinner, a bottle of Chianti, appetizers and desserts, along with dinner. We can drop a pretty penny, but others get in an out for a quick meal at a much lower cost.

It’s important to note that the restaurant can fill up quickly, especially on the weekends. I always recommend calling ahead for reservations anywhere you go for dinner when you can, and Salvatore’s is no exception. For directions and contact information, click here. And then make plans to enjoy some fabulous Italian food!