Restaurant Review: Cozumel

Tuesday my ladies and I decided to try Cozumel the new Mexican restaurant in Lakewood.  It's located in the old IHop building.

Upon entering the restaurant I was happy to see they've made some pretty significant changes in the decor and even added a little bar.  Of course we all ordered Margaritas, and at $5.50 I felt the price was super reasonable.  They were slightly smaller than the Margs at El Jalepeno's (our usual hot spot) but at two dollars less they were much cheaper!

I ordered the Carne Asada and it was delicious.   I took my camera with the intention of taking a picture but I forgot!  Anyways, when it came out there was a nice serving of beans, some shredded lettuce, a very little bit of pico de gallo (I'm going to ask for more in the future), three wraps and a two good size pieces of beef to be cut up.  There was way more than I could eat, but of course I forgot my doggy bag at the table!  The price was good at $10.50 which is significantly cheaper than the Carne Asada at El J's which is $13.50.

Overall I think Cozumel might become our new go-to spot.  With everything being 1-3 dollars cheaper than El Jalepeno's it's definitely going to be easier on our wallets!  Not to mention, in good weather it is within walking distance of most of my friends' houses along with mine!

Have you gone to Cozumel?  What did you think, what is your favorite dish?

Coming Up

Coming up this week I hope to review Cozumel- a new Mexican restaurant in Lakewood and another place that is yet to be determined. Check back to see what the mystery location turns out to be!

Restaurant Review: Buckeye Beer Engine

On Monday evening I had a date at Buckeye Beer Engine in Lakewood.  I'd forgotten that this is Cleveland Beer Week, and was surprised to see how packed the joint was.  Luckily my date got there early and snagged us two seats at the bar.

As chance would have it he sat down next to the representative from Unibroue, a brewery in Quebec that was hosting a tasting that evening.  When my date and I both ordered a flight of four different Unibroue beers the representative, Jay, offered to pay for them both!  Score!  We decided we should have something to eat while we drank so I suggested ordering the hummus.  My date decided to challenge me and my taste buds and suggested the roasted red pepper hummus instead.  I went with it.  It was very tastey- but I got a nasty case of heartburn, (which I hope I hid well) though I can not be sure that it was from the hummus and not the beer.

Usually when I go to the Beer Engine I order their burgers which are amazing.  AND they have delicious fried pickles! (Snooki would love this place!*)  So if you are ever in Lakewood and looking for a good meal and want a craft beer then head to the Beer Engine.  You can't even order a Miller Light there if you want to!

Good food, good company, good times!




*please don't judge me for my Jersey Shore references 

Restaurant Review: Two Dad's Diner

This afternoon I went to Two Dad's Diner in Lakewood with my coworkers.  This is a locally owned restaurant that has great standard diner food.  We had ten people and they were able to easily accommodate us.  I ordered "the Bif" which was a warm roast beef sandwich with caramelized onions.  It technically comes with blue cheese on it, but since I have a dairy allergy I had it without.  A pickle and fries were served on the side.  It was delicious.  Everyone at the table seemed to enjoy their meal.  Some were raving about the sweet potato fries, others enjoyed the vegetarian options etc.  The prices are pretty reasonable with most dishes, if not all being under $10.  I'd recommend Two Dad's to anyone who is looking for a casual and delicious meal.

Bar Review: Brother's Lounge

Last night I had a date.  Per his suggestion we met each other at Brother's Lounge just outside of Lakewood's borders.  I'd never been so I was excited to see what it was like.  We sat in the wine bar and I really liked the vibe.  It was cozy and there was nice live music playing.  I enjoyed a glass of Pinot Grigio.  When we got there there weren't many open seats so we sat down at the end of a long narrow table that fit 8.  As we sat and talked more people came and sat with us till suddenly the table was full.  We didn't talk to them, but it was interesting.  I thought sharing a table with strangers might be weird, but really it was just fine and not very different than sitting at the bar.

Brother's also has an area that is more of a "regular bar" and a back area that is more of a concert venue where bands come and play.  I'd love to go back and try out the different areas as well.