Eight (!) years ago my friend recommended her favorite place - The Fairmount. She emphasized that…read morethe ambiance and cocktails are something to experience. Eight years worth of Fairmount moments later, this review is well overdue.
AMBIANCE: The ambiance allows you to slow down and enjoy your company. The restaurant is dim lit, has fireplaces, and loungey atmosphere. It somehow feels warm and I heard a lot of people refer to it as a second home (people are always so friendly here!). There is ample space - three bars, main dining space, and huge outdoor oasis bar. Nestled in Cedar Fairmount neighborhood, you'll also be able to enjoy historic neighborhood. There are seating arrangements if you're craving company or want to enjoy your date. Seating options include couches by the fireplace, tables, and high tops.
Fairmount is delightful during every season. During the summer you can enjoy the bar and patio. In the winter you can dine at the igloos. I prefer all seasons here.
FOOD/DRINKS: The menu at Fairmount is impressive and has exciting seasonal/weekly additions. You'll never get bored. The cocktails here are refined, very boozy, and very well crafted. The food is seriously delicious, and consistent every single time. I've been impressed with every dish. The dishes and drinks frequently follow the seasons.
During my latest visit I enjoyed Butter Pecan Warm Cider with bourbon ($12, so bold and boozy, tastes like fall). I also ordered Fig Trouble Little China ($15, a more rich version of Old Fashioned, so delicious). I also tasted Short Rib & Risotto for the very first time ($28, such a delicious dish, every bite was just amazing).
My favorites? Ah, so hard! I'll go with the Fairmount Burger! It's angus beef burger with bacon-fig chutney. It's so delicious! I can't even be serious about meat at the other burger places, this is easily the best burger in the city. My seasonal favorite? Kevin McCallister seasonal drink that resembles coquito or eggnog. The drink is topped with rice paper that includes the design of Kevin from Home Alone. It's such a fun tradition! I look forward to this drink all year and always tell the world about it!
SERVICE: The service is excellent. I haven't been anywhere where service is right on point every single time. Everyone is nice - the owner, hosts, and waitstaff. You truly feel seen and like the most important guest. I've visited previously while on dates and frequently dine here solo, always had the most pleasant service.
EVENTS: Many people book events here for their non-profits or companies. As far as individual events, Fairmount hosts a fun NYE party every year!
PARKING: Onsite parking lot is available at the back of the building. You can enter through the front doors on Cedar or right through the parking lot door.
There are numerous reasons why I love the Fairmount. I consider it to be the best dining experience in the Cedar Fairmount neighborhood of Cleveland Heights. I also love how the owner Jake is very engaged in the community and is incredibly friendly with the surrounding business owners. I'll choose this place again and again for calming ambiance, crafted cocktails, and delicious food. To many more years of Fairmount and at Fairmount!