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Flying Fig
Categories: Restaurants American (New) Restaurants Vegetarian American (New), Vegetarian [Edit]
2523 Market AveCleveland, OH 44113
(216) 241-4243
- Hours:
Tue-Thu 4 pm - 11 pm
Fri-Sat 4 pm - 12 am
Sun 11 am - 11 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Romantic, Trendy
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
81 reviews for Flying Fig
Review Highlights
"Tempura Green Beans with Ponzu and Pineapple Caramel sauces."
(in 9 reviews)
"Started with the chorizo stuffed, bacon wrapped dates."
(in 8 reviews)
"Caramel Sea Salt Ice Cream / Fig Ice Cream (housemade."
(in 16 reviews)
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81 reviews in English
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Review from Kenny Y.
1/9/2012
This is a fantastic restaurant, and I've gone here for many a celebratory dinner. But, I'd like to note that their menu changes very frequently based on the current produce that is in season in the local farms. Before you decide to try something at this restaurant mentioned in any of the other reviews, you might want to call and make sure they have it.
That being said, everything I've ordered at this restaurant has been excellent. The portions are very large as well. If they are available on the menu, try the short ribs or the bouillabaise. For dessert, the bread pudding is PHENOMENAL - if they have it. Also, the tempura green beans appetizer (which is the one thing that has always been offered when I've been here) is seasoned quite well, and they give you a heaping pile of them, which you will gobble up quickly like potato chips or edamame. In addition, the service here is very good and they refill your water consistently. And I've never been here for happy hour but I heard that it was great too.
One last thing - parking may be difficult at this restaurant if the neighboring lot is full. It was full half of the times I've gone here. -
Review from Lizi C.
Bummer! I tried the Mahi Mahi, what a waste of money and time. Salty, tangy, small, incredibly spicy (spicy was not advertised). The Mahi was served in a bowl on top of a runny scoop of rice that tasted like Uncle Ben made it himself. The fish and rice was floating in a broth made of what tasted to be 90% soy sauce and 10% water. What a terrible dish all for $22 and an hour of my time.
I tried to get in earlier reservation but was told there were no tables available until 8:15 at night. When we walked in at 8:15 there were multiple large tables unoccupied in a half empty restaurant. I'm done with this place.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/18/2011
What was ordered:
Dinner for two:
Tempera green beans - I had high expectations for the green beans… Read more »
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Review from Michele L.
Cleveland, OH
1/18/2012
This is one of the best happy hours in Cleveland. I have known this for years, but sometimes I just need to remind myself. Last night I did just that. For $5, you can get the best blue cheese/bacon burger in Cleveland (I dare you to find a better one at that price), or the confit chicken legs, which I ordered for the first time last night. I have never had confit chicken legs before, and they exceeded my expectations-especially with the added touch of pickled carrots. The happy hour runs from 4-7pm Tuesday through Friday.
If you don't make it to the happy hour, you must stop into the Market at the Fig connected to the Flying Fig. I had the best sandwich of my life there two months ago, and it has made eating sandwiches anywhere else in Cleveland difficult. The market also supplies hard to find beverages and Utz potato chips.
The only reason I give this restaurant four stars is because the happy hour menu is limited, and the normal menu can be a little pricey, but this is one place where get your moneys worth in taste. I also commend this restaurant for always buying local, and to me, that is worth the higher price. -
Review from m. m.
Philadelphia, PA
1/3/2012
Said it before and I'll say it again: I am not a foodie. But my husband and I were visiting for the holidays and I wanted us to take a break from family and have a nice couples' dinner out. After reviewing my available local "nice" but not "uberfancy" restaurant options, I picked Flying Fig, mostly because we could wear our jeans, the menu included burgers, and Lolita didn't seem to use OpenTable. As it turned out, Flying Fig did not put one foot wrong all night with respect to our evening, so I was very happy with my choice and would definitely visit again.
Although this place advertises itself as a bar first and restaurant second, everybody I know goes there primarily to eat interesting food. Not that the cocktails aren't good but there are lots of other places if you just want a drink. The dining area is small at the Flying Fig, but on this weeknight it was packed for about two hours at dinner time. I would add that due to the small size of the room, "packed" equated to very very noisy to the point where you pretty much had to yell across the table to be heard, particularly since the next table had about five drunk young women whooping and hollering over their plates. It quieted down considerably after about 7:30 pm. If the food and service hadn't been so good, the noise level would have been bothersome, but since we had such a great meal otherwise I'm willing to overlook it.
We started with an appetizer of chorizo-stuffed dates which were totally yummy. Then on to the entrees: husband had a very fresh, very large cheeseburger with crispy fries (I stole a few and they were done just perfect and in particular were not limp), and I had a glazed pork shop nestled in some cheesy grits. (Although we picked meaty meals, I noticed that there were also several vegetarian appetizer and entree choices on the menu, in addition to a couple of pedestrian sounding salads.)
The food was super fresh and absolutely excellent. If everything at restaurants tasted this good, I just *might* have become a foodie. Our waiter was also awesome, a total pro who really knew what he was doing, even though the place like I said was jammed and seemed to be understaffed.
Dessert involved some homemade fig ice cream with the best cookies I have had in a restaurant in a long time. Thank heaven not everybody makes their homemade ice cream the consistency of soft serve (this was hard the way I like it), nor makes their cookies soft (the chocolate chunk was crispy the way I like it, and warm from the oven). The coffee was also among the best cups I have ever tasted in a restaurant and the waiter helpfully informed us they get it from City Roast right across the street. Score for the locals.
Be aware that the portion size varies dramatically and a bit wildly. We ordered one appetizer to split because we didn't know how big the plates would be and didn't want to end up ruining our dinners. The appetizer turned out to be a small plate (three dates), and the dessert was also a reasonably small portion, but our entrees were GINORMOUS. The pork chop I ate was so huge it was like the whole hind quarter of a piglet, and the waiter even said that the chops they were currently serving were much bigger than that dish used to be. My husband, who usually has no trouble putting his meals away, couldn't finish his big portion of fries. We took all the tasty leftovers home of course, and ate them up next day, but if you're planning to consume a whole dinner here, I'd suggest you bring your appetite. -
Review from Kristen K.
Cleveland, OH
1/29/2012
The tempura green beans might just be the most delicious things I've ever had. I'd come back to Flying Fig just for those!
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Review from Sammy S.
Cleveland, OH
12/18/2011
I went to Flying Fig twice this weekend. Once for happy hour/dinner on Friday, and again on Sunday for brunch. The restaurant itself is very warm and inviting. Both visits we had a seat near the bar and found the booths to be very comfortable and good for people watching. Friday night we had a happy hour hamburger which is delicious and a steal at $5. We also got the two-cheese sandwich. This was simply one of the best sandwiches I've ever had. It consisted of very good quality, slightly aged cheese with walnuts, pickled zucchini, figs, and arugula on excellent focaccia. Simply delicious. The cocktails we got were excellent also, including a gin gimlet and a house concoction of St. Germain, gin, citrus, and soda.
Sunday brunch was more of the same. We tried the huevos rancheros and the polenta with deep fried egg and mushrooms. Both were excellent. The price is a bit steep for brunch, but the quality more than justifies it. We had the same waiter both trips, and the service was excellent and affably understated. -
Review from Theresa C.
Cleveland, OH
11/6/2011
My first time at Flying Fig was definitely better than the second time. However, I still have hope for Flying Fig, so I'll be willing to give it a Four Star. To make my life easier, below are the reasons why it deserves a four star and reasons why it was disappointing at times:
Why I gave it a 4 star:
1) Great appetizer - try the dates, it was delicious!
2) Classy place to go for a date
3) Happy Hour food was decent with some fun drinks (chicken drumstick was good, bruschetta was interesting)
4) The majority of their dinner selections were pretty tasty - the duck was good.
Now, why I shouldn't have given it a 4 star:
1) We got a random gratuity charge when we went for happy hour - there was only 2 of us eating too.
2) I did not like their short ribs. The lamb meat wasn't as tender as it could have been. Overall, my second time dinning there was a bit disappointing - the price I paid wasn't worth the quality I received.
It's okay, overall, this is a nice place to go. I'd give it one more try sometime to let the restaurant redeem itself. -
Review from Shayna R.
11/3/2011 ROTD 11/26/2011
Yum! One of my best friends introduced me to Flying Fig a few days ago for some drinks and appetizers. I got a ginger margarita which was so delicious that I actually had a dream about it the next night. No joke. I feel like all my future margaritas will be a disappointment compared to that! We split the famous tempura green beans as well as the chorizo dates with bacon. Both were great, and I could've eaten far more of them! Our server was friendly and just the right amount of attentive, and I loved the atmosphere. Can't wait to go back!
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Review from Sarah V.
7/15/2011 ROTD 7/31/2011
I'm kind of like Ben Stiller in Along Came Polly when it comes to eating mixed nuts at the bar. Yes, I am that freak who thinks I'm gonna get the Ebola virus from a bowl of mixed nuts. I couldn't bring myself to sample the fresh made chips and dipping sauce sitting during happy hour. I wasn't sure how long it had sat out before I made it there. Especially since it took me a while to catch the eye of the bartender to order a drink. Things must wait a long time at the wooden water trough.
He was really busy. So I just sloughed it off and got lost in the drink menu. I was torn between 3 drinks. I knew I had to at least try two, and after one I was second guessing my rationale. But I went for it, yelpers! He recommended the Moscow Mule. Vodka, ginger beer, and lime, helloooo Dolly!! It was refreshing and just what I needed to turn it loose. Once I slammed that down, I immediately set the dry glass at the front face of the bar so he could see it. Seconds later he was asking what else I wanted to try. "The Rhubarb cocktail", I said sloppily. It was made with local rhubarb syrup and some champagne. UM-yum. After that drink you could have called me Barb and I wouldn't have cared.
By this time our party had arrived. I was a little tipsy, thanks to my new friend at the bar. But feeling goooooooood. And I'm feeling it this morning....
We were there for Yelp Eats. 20% off selected menus. I ordered the Pork Loin. She asked me how I wanted it cooked. I'm used to wait staff asking me this question for beef. But for pork?! Pork and chicken always make me nervous when undercooked. Pink pork, ew!!! She recommended medium, and I graciously obliged. And I'm still alive today! Must be all that lead paint I chewed on as a kid.
In the mean time we nibbled on the tempura green beans. They were good, I'm just not sure if I would order them again? It came with 2 dipping sauces, Ponzu or a pineapple sauce. I favored the latter. I just wanted something more from them. Like when you're dating a guy for 3 years and it's not headed to the altar anytime soon. That kind of feeling.
When this pork came out I almost fell off my chair. The prices were steep, and I expected the plates to come out with a bite of food on them. This pork was bigger than my hand (that's what she said). When I read the description I wasn't sure what to expect: Molasses Glazed Ohio Pork Loin, Sweet Potato, Pickled Radish, Watercress, Jalapeno & Cilantro. If we could ever eat a really great song, like Pink Floyd -Hey You, it would be this dish.
The sweet potato puree had a nuttiness to it. Maybe cinnamon or nutmeg? It was deliciously paired with the pickled radishes/watercress & friends. Mixed with the saltiness of the pork, and there on that day, I witnessed the union of something great.
Our waitress offered us a dessert menu. But we drank our calories instead. I should have accepted because after I left I was eyeing the ice cream places on Detroit.
I love you Flying Fig. You filled the hole where pork belongs. However, I didn't see any figs flying. I think it's a farse.Listed in: Sophie's Choice, Take Me Out, For Reviewers like You
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Review from Zack H.
7/14/2011
The Flying Fig is what food should be. The world is a better place simply because I tried this place, located in Ohio City near the Great Lakes brewpub, West Side Market, and hundreds of thugs south of Lorain Ave.
I'm sorry if I was a little more to the point that I normally am: I am BUZZZZED now. The cocktails served at this place is bar none. They can be dangerous, though; they are strong and rather tasty. They also have complimentary homemade chips at the bar they serve that are coated in salt and some other glorious seasonings.
I ended up ordering a tender loin that was covered in carrots, radishes, jalapenos, yams, and tons of other things that don't belong on a tender loin - or so you'd think. The price is rather high, but the quality of the ingredients and the skill with which they're cooked result in this place having some of the best tender loin in the city. Their deep-friend green beans are divine, and I hate green beans with a passion. Green beans, along with mushrooms, are the two foods that can repel me. I can make an exception to that rule here.
The porch in the front is intimate and allows customers to mingle and drink over...things, I guess. Meanwhile, the way the interior is lit is simply romantic and awe-spiring. I would absolutely go here on a date if I lived in Cleveland.
If you are looking to go on a date, this is the place. If you are looking to go out with friends, go here, then across the street to the Great Lakes brewpub to get drunk. You'll be thanking me. -
Review from Cara L.
Updated - 7/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
Aaaaaand we're back!
I can't tell you how excited I was for Flying Fig to be a Yelp Eats 2011 participant--mostly because it's been way too long since I've been back to indulge. I think it's truly safe to say that this place cannot disappoint me.
The items on the discounted menu were truly generous and looked divine and that drink menu... it gets me every time. I'm not one for sweet cocktails, but when you have a properly-made flight 77 for me to pour down my throat, you have a happy blonde. But then you add in some Ohio rhubarb syrup? Wow. Help my life.
After a bev or two, we were finally ready to dive into Yelp Eats. I ordered some of these famous tempura green beans for the table to share. Simple, yet delicious. I passed on the pineapple-y sweet dipping sauce, but the other was salty perfection with these crunchy green guys. Yum. As we nibbled and grazed on bread and beans, the server took our drink and food orders, not missing a beat and actually stopping to chat. How refreshing! I love it when the staff is friendly enough to engage with their guests. I'd pass on the snooty, overly-proper-types any day.
Then came the food. Most everyone in our party ordered the glazed pork loin and absolutely loved it--as in, 100% clean plates. I was a little jealous as I saw them slice into the tender pieces of perfectly cooked deliciousness. Another one of our party ordered the burger, which was no ordinary burger. In fact, after eating every-single-thing off his plate (including fresh fries and a huge, juicy burger piled high with chihuahua cheese and onion rings), he exclaimed, "best burger of my life." Then, well, that left me with the most delicious striped bass ever. Tender, a little flaky, seasoned and seared perfectly. Another clean plate without that overly-stuffed feeling.
Once again, a gorgeous experience, Flying Fig. Thanks for hosting!Listed in: Super Cinco Stars, Ohio City Guide, Perfect for Patio Season, Vegetarian in CLE, Parking Nightmares
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/11/2010
There is only one way for me to describe the Flying Fig: Drop-Dead-Delicious!
I came here during… Read more »
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Review from Jason M.
Cleveland, OH
I'm only giving it four stars because I have only eaten here once. I also tried a very basic menu item, the ohio grass fed beef burger. The burger was $19 and damn was it good. Like real good. Like I think it beat out Heck's Cafe in my burger rank.
I've also met with... who I think is the General Manager now, Steven and he's a cool dude. He came here from Brooklyn, NY. He said they change the menu almost daily and go with the seasons.
Works out great because they are located so close to the Westside Market and can easily pop over to scope the pickings.
Changing the menu that often is clearly what makes this place so intriguing. It's almost like trying a new experience each time.
Service is solid, not completely blown away but not bad. Like I said, I've been here once for dinner.
Looking forward to going back and trying more sophisticated dishes. -
Review from Kaitlin D.
Cleveland, OH
Updated - 7/14/2011
The fig never disappoints. The only reason for the 4 stars is the hurting it puts on my wallet.
A friend and I came here for the Yelp Eats discount on the green beans. I wanted to share my love and it was successful! We also shared the smoked turkey sandwich--mouth watering delicious. It's great the next day, too! Homemade pickles?! SOLD. Also, the dirty bird martini is excellent--I just love martinis.
And, once again, the staff and service were great!!Listed in: Dranks, Would You Like a Side of Fresh…, In a Pickle
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/20/2011
Tempura battered green beans. That is all.
We stopped here on our way to get some drinks later in… Read more »
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Review from James P.
Medina, OH
9/5/2011
Before I give my review I must point out that I have Celiac's Disease and I'm restricted to a Gluten Free diet. Therefore my reviews always factor in how a restaurant accommodates my diet. Four of us had brunch at the Flying Fig, Sunday August 21st. We all got the Migas w/ Chorizo. The food was very good, however for the price the portions could have been larger. My 3-star rating is due to my drink order experience. I ordered a Bloody Mary and asked the server to check if the Worcestershire Sauce used was Gluten Free. She went to check, came back and informed me that the BM batch was made the previous evening and she wasn't sure if the Worcestershire Sauce was Gluten Free. Wasn't sure? Doesn't a restaurant know what products they use? I would give this restaurant another try, maybe for dinner
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Review from Peter W.
3/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
The wife and I recently visited Flying Fig for a late evening dinner after a long day of digging out from the previous nights blizzard. I was pretty surprised to find that the place was mostly empty at 10PM on a Friday, but I guess a lot of that can be chalked up the weather and a metric tonne of things going on in town that evening.
The sparsely populated dining room and bar were actually a welcome sight, having just come from a fun, but over-crowded gathering, and after we made ourselves comfortable in our booth we got down to the business of trying to decide what to order.
I suppose that to say I've heard great things about Flying Fig is an understatement, and for certain friends, it has been their favorite restaurant in town for years. Finally having a chance to take it all in in person proved they at least had a very solid argument.
I ended up ordering the lamb shank, and the wife ordered the burger and when they arrived I'm pretty sure our eyes popped out of our heads. My lamb shank looked as if it might have been a prop from the Flintstones, and my wife's burger looked mouth-wateringly good (as did the accompanying mound of fries and onion rings). Both dishes tasted even better than they looked and it wasn't long before they had disappeared completely.
The service was friendly and efficient. As I said earlier, it seemed as if we might have hit on a relatively dead night, but I feel confident we would have received the same treatment had we come at a busier time.
In my opinion, Flying Fig has earned every word of praise I've heard about it, and I can't wait to go back. -
Review from Alicia B.
4/27/2011 Seated via OpenTable 1 Check-in Here
Flying Fig was very close to being empty on a Saturday night. Which makes me so sad because it's such a cute place and I'm pretty sure it was the best meal I've had in a really long time!
Everything about our meal was perfect - the drinks came quickly and were really great. Anyone who knows how to properly mix St. Germain gets points with me! Our appetizers were fresh and delicious - the dates (of course!) and a very summery fried squash.
But I've come to Flying Fig other times and left slightly disappointed in my entrees and wished I had only ordered small plates. Well, not this time. I had a beef cheek rigatoni that was out-of-this-world good. I was too busy devouring my rigatoni to even ask how the husband's hangar steak was, and by the time I'd looked up to ask if I could try it, it was gone. I guess he really liked his, too.
We ordered an apple dessert (I hate apple desserts, I just wanted the ice cream!) and mannnn, was it good ice cream. I wanted to buy it by the gallon and keep it in my freezer at all times. And I don't normally get that excited over vanilla.
Overall, it was a perfect (but definitely pricey) meal and I hope the next time I go back it is just as lovely and delicious. -
Review from Paul J.
Keller, TX
6/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
Went here because of the buzz from other Yelpers. While we weren't disappointed per se, both my wife and I felt the food here lacked inspiration -- even if it was technically prepared as advertised. Hard to put my finger on, but the food here just lacked the small details that set a five star review apart from the rest.
Started with the chorizo stuffed, bacon wrapped dates. A great start: flavorful, just the right amount of sweet with the kick of chorizo. Also had the tempura green beans: these were undercooked and a bit too stiff, having had these numerous times elsewhere at other restaurants.
My dish was the steak, a bone in strip: I'm a Texan, and in Texas we let the steak speak for itself. Here, they drowned this thing in butter. Flavorful, but I kept trying to get past the heavy butter to taste the beef. The side dishes served with the steak, while generally well prepared, were pedestrian: chopped and seasoned potatoes, and asparagus that, like the green beans, was undercooked.
My wife had the lamb. Again, solid but unspectacular: plated like you might at home, and with some heavy grains & cream that might be s mismatch with such a rich meat.
Service was prompt, friendly; not too crowded for main suppertime during a Sat night. Would I go back next time I'm in Cleveland? Probably not, but not because we had a bad experience -- just that there are better options (Lola, for example). -
Review from Kate W.
3/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
Stop #2 on my wine bar crawl of Cleveland. Really empty - just a table or two occupied, and no one at the bar except me - it was a Wednesday so I should give them the benefit of the doubt, but there were more employees than customers, and while the bartender (maybe the owner? she seemed to be in charge...) was completely attentive, I felt awkward sitting at the bar - the only customer at the bar, mind you - while a gaggle of employees chatted loudly at the end of the bar.
Aside from that, the wine and food were lovely. They didn't seem to have too many wines by the glass, but the one that the bartender recommended for me was very nice. I tried the chorizo-stuffed dates that someone else here recommended and they were great - very filling, even though you only get three.
The atmosphere, at least in the bar area, was a little trendier than I personally care for with some uber-modern art on the wall and very low lighting, but this would be a very nice impress-your-date place. -
Review from Niki F.
Broadview Heights, OH
5/20/2011
We went to the fig for my husbands birthday. Overall, we had a great experience. I really enjoyed the design of menu and bar area. I did feel though, that the dining area fell flat. It was far less romantic feeling than the bar.
Our drinks were fantastic, as was the service. We started with the spicy tomato soup which was outstanding. Followed it up with a molasses glazed pork loin. I very much enjoyed this dish. The locally grown pork had a nice flavor. My only discrepancy was that it was not cooked to specification. I asked for no pink at all, and it came to us with the center extremely pink.
Overall, I would recommend a drink and an appetizer in the bar. Cute bar for the area. -
Review from Jeff E.
10/1/2010
Self-realization has led me to consider my rating system, as my reviews are heavy on the 4 and 5 stars. This has me questioning whether I'm too easy on the places I frequent and as of late, might have caused me to be a tad more critical.
But this place gets the 5 stars anyway!
I drove from Solon to try this place and though some might say simply leaving the suburbian wasteland for Foodies tilted my tastebuds in favor of Figs-a-Flying, I relent. But it doesn't change the fact that they've got it all right in this place.
Sat at the bar, struck up conversations with locals, and realized that this place is the real deal. It's been here for years and was using local ingredients before that was hip.
I had the special: The Grilled Marlin with a Chimichurri that was on a bed of Spinach-infused Couscous along with roasted Carrots.
The carrots were perfect and I'm not a fan of carrots. I wish there were more! As for the couscous, much the same situation. Usually, I think couscous is overrated, but this deserved serious attention (which it got as I devoured every last morsel).
The chimichurri was a delight on the marlin and if I had to complain about anything at all, I might say that the marlin was a little unevenly cooked with one side being a little crispy.
I'm hooked. I get to Cleveland at least once a month and now I've found a new favorite.
Oh, what a Happy Plate I had! -
Review from Joyce P.
8/27/2010
After hearing about Flying Fig forever (magazine write-ups, friends), I came here with a few girlfriends to share the small plates. I can't believe its taken me several years to make my way here!
It really is one of Cleveland's best. Some of my favorites: house-made pasta (soft, fresh, delicious), medjool dates (chorizo, dates in bacon), and the fig ice cream (creamy, delicious - only needed a few bites!) Mmm.. drooling...right now.
Others that were still good: tempura battered green beans, mussels (mmm), roasted beet salad.
The overall environment was enjoyable and I had a great time with the girls! -
Review from Liz B.
San Francisco, CA
11/5/2010 Seated via OpenTable
Quick recap:
Ordered the much talked about tempura green beans. Just ok. Probably not worth the fried calories.
Ordered the seared Duck Breast with leg confit. The leg was incredibly tasty and properly seasoned. The breast (the main portion of the dish), resting on the pumpkin puree, was entirely forgettable and fairly bland (I had to ask for salt). I expect more for $26.
My mother ordered the polenta and was only marginally pleased.
The kicker was (and perhaps there could be some argument on this one) I started out ordering a glass of wine ~ the Fidelity Merlot ~ and once it arrived was so offput (by one sip) by the incredibly chalky, earthy, dirty taste of it, I (after saying I NEVER do this) sent it back and asked her recommendation for a replacement that was lighter, etc. I ended up with the pinot noir that was decent and drinkable. BUT she charged me for both glasses. REALLY?!?!?!? I suppose the restaurant was within their fair rights to do that, but it made me incredibly unhappy as a customer. I paid the full bill, but left knowing that I will NOT recommend the restaurant, based on that poor service element and the marginally pleasing food, and will certainly not return myself.
Hope the management reads this and realizes how unhappy this made me as a customer. -
Review from Al B.
Cleveland, OH
2/12/2011
I have to first of all state that any criticism that I write here is purely nit picking and that you should refer back to the 5 star rating! After all how interesting is it to read that our server was friendly and timely because she was or that the food was delicious because it was.
The dimly lit dining room and world beat music playing so loud it's like another person sitting at the table let you know that you were definitely in one of Cleveland's trendy restaurants. Feeling very much in the mood I ordered the Chicken Confit with hericot vert and spaetzle, this isn't your mother's chicken and dumplings! The chicken was moist, fantastic and falling off the bone but slightly salty. The hericot vert or as they were called in my house growing up, green beans, had a crunch and wonderful flavor. The spaezle was the perfect complement to it all and helped balance the saltiness of the chicken.
The dinner was capped off with bread pudding that wasn't too sweet and a smear of carmel that was just sweet enough.
The best recommendation I can give the Flying Fig is would I bring out of town guest to show off Cleveland's foodie community and the answer is a resounding, YES! -
Review from Hungry A.
Buffalo, NY
Updated - 3/1/2010 2 photos
One of the BEST Restaurants in Cleveland OH. Hands Down.
*One of my favorite out of town dining experiences (2/27/10)
The front of house staff (Tony and Ray especially) are EXCEPTIONAL as well as accommodating.
After a Chopin Vodka "Dirty Bird" (fancy name for a tasty Dirty Martini)
WE
Ordered: (ALL Split between myself and a work colleague)
-Charcuterie and Cheese Plate (Manchego/Prosciutto/Olives/etc.)
-Tempura Green Beans with Ponzu and Pineapple Caramel sauces
-Medjool Dates wrapped in smoked bacon and stuffed with chorizo
-Crispy Polenta
-"Bacon and Eggs" *Crispy Pork Belly with local eggs/apple butter/grits)
-Hangar Steak with Duck Fat Fried Potatos
-Caramel Sea Salt Ice Cream / Fig Ice Cream (housemade)
- Bread Pudding (made with Pecan Sticky Buns)
-Double Espresso
**With a $15. corkage fee available, we brought a bottle of Krug Grand Cuvee and a 97 Chateauneuf Du Pape - Both were perfect accompaniments to all small plates.
**HIGHLY recommend making this a destination if you are ever in striking distance. Wonderful location. Everything that comes out of that kitchen is fantastic.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/6/2008
I had been seriously looking forward to going to this "acclaimed" spot for the better part of 2008.… Read more »
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Review from Boon K.
6/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
Totally disappointed. The tempura chicken was dry and the duck confit was dry too. We came for happy hour and had some drinks but the food wasn't my cup of tea. I only like the fries and that was it.
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Review from Nicole M.
Updated - 3/2/2009
You know it's love when the one who seduced you makes you brunch. Oh Figgy, darling, you made me fall in love with you all over again. It's not the sultry but playful scene from the night before. It's relaxed and requited.
I brought my 6 year old and Mon cher chou to brunch. Herself Who Would Not Be Pleased was just aching to brood about something. Then she got the whole wheat pancakes with apples and bacon in front of her. Then Herself transformed into Queen Sunshine of Baconland. Good bacon does that to her.
Mon cher chou and I started out with cocktails. I had the grapefruit, which was freshly squeezed juice and a blend of booze, darling. It was bright, pert and refreshing. Mon cher chou's orange cocktail was heavy on the Stoli orange and a bit light on the juice. This might not be a bad thing.
I had the fried polenta with a saute of spinach, muchrooms and pancetta. The polenta was crisp on the outside and creamy on the inside. The saute was cooked with a light hand and added a fresh counterpoint to the heavy polenta. Mon cher chou had a decadent, moist, creamy marscapone french toast. It was almost custard-like. Mercy.
The sweet bread (not sweetbread!) basket was a bit small for the cost, but the baked goods were divine-- pound cake, zucchini bread, a muffin, all homemade.
The atmosphere is relaxed, easy and accomodating of children, although they do not have an awful dumbed down menu for them. Every child would like the pancakes, sweet breads or french toast.
It seems that they are still working out a few kinks in the service-- our orders were put through twice. But there was nothing that inconveninced us. The staff was their usual cool, friendly selves.
So, FF, you took me in, you spun me around and now you made me breakfast. I think this is it.Listed in: See and be Seen, My current favorites
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/1/2009
I never planned on loving you, FF. No dear, when you took over the spot that once held my beloved… Read more »
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Review from L. D.
Chagrin Falls, OH
7/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've had Flying Fig on my to do list for awhile now. Meal included: Dates stuffed with House-made Chorizo, Wrapped in Smoked Bacon - OK, Salad - Good, Pork Entree - Pork was cooked properly and very moist and the best bread pudding I have had in a very long time. I'm only giving it 3 stars because I was not wow'd from start to finish and for the $$$ I think I should have left feeling it was worth it.
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Review from Melissa H.
Los Angeles, CA
6/6/2009 2 photos
En route to Los Angeles from upstate New York, the Flying Fig was our first stop for food. Even though the atmosphere and food could call for a more pretentious attitude regarding attire, they welcomed us warmly in our driving clothes.
Our server was very friendly and knowledgable, giving us ample time to choose from the menu while maintaining contact and not disappearing.
It was very difficult to decide what to have for dinner. Everything sounds good.
We started with a special appitizer of the day, an asparagus-bacon quiche. Unlike a typical quiche, this was fluffy, light, and full of flavor.
Next, my fiancé had 3 small plates: gnocci with rabbit, chorizo stuffed dates, and a crispy polenta cake. I had a pasta special of penne with smoked chicken and kale in pesto. Normally, we're fast eaters, but Flying Fig had us Oohing and Aahing at every bite, trying desperately to make it last.
It did not, and we were tempted to lick our plates. Luckily, our lovely server reminded us of dessert.
He ordered the chocolate lava cake with fig ice cream while I ordered the rhubarb cake with strawberry ice cream. Amazing.
And we left with enough energy to make it to Indiana that night. -
Review from Kimberly K.
San Francisco, CA
12/19/2009
I don't know why i've never reviewed the fig. It's by far one of the best places to go in clevo.
i stopped in with a friend last night for a drink and a dessert, and i am always reminded "dammit, why have i not reviewed the fig ever on yelp??"
their food is delicious. beyond delicious. years ago, i had a pork tenderloin something or other here that i still remember to this day as one of the best meals i've ever had. their green beans are sooo tasty. and basically anything else of the carnivorous temptation persuasion will melt your taste buds into heaven.
at christmas time they offer an egg nog martini. you won't regret it. ask for it. it's the christmas time drink that could cure tiny tim.
for dessert you're gonna want to try the molten lava cake with fig ice cream. it's not the flash-in-the-pan boxed chocolate lava cake. it's true sweetness that makes you warm and fuzzy on a cold winter's night.
the fig is definitely one of the best places to eat a nice meal in clevo. if you want to impress your significant other, appreciate a coworker, or take the family out for a nice meal, this is the place to go.
with friendly service to boot. -
Review from Rachel B.
12/20/2009
I'm definitely fatter after last night.
At Kimberly K.'s suggestion, I tried the egg nog martini. Words cannot describe. I usually don't drink bourbon, but this drink went all the way dowwwn.
I had the Ohio Beef Burger (very reasonable at $15), with buttermilk blue cheese and bacon. It came with a side of extremely delicious fries which came close to Bar Cento's...almost. Definitely had rosemary in them, which I love. They also included some house-made pickles, which were surprisingly sweet. I have a feeling the ketchup was also made in house, because it came in one of those mini-side dishes and just tasted so different and fresh. But I was too embarrassed to ask our server.
My husband had a trio of small plate ($24) which included tofu with lentils, rice, and harissa yogurt; fried polenta; and mushroom gnocchi. He enjoyed everything (and only gave me a bite of the tofu, the bastard).
We were actually too stuffed for dessert. Like I said, definitely fatter.
Will return!Listed in: One Hand on the Horn, Don't Skip Dessert, Best Burgers
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Review from Amy T.
7/24/2009
5 stars is an easy decision. I don't get to come here much ($$$$$) but I have had wonderful meals when I do.
The first time I came here was after I was dumped...My dad wanted to take his little girl someplace nice. I was coming from the East side and got off the shoreway on w.28. It isn't super easy to make a left there and I was stopped for a few minutes. While stopped, a woman came over and tried to get in my car. Luckily, I am always expecting this and locked the door as soon as I saw her make a move (I have had this happen to me, for some reason, like 10 times). Once again, I thwarted a crazy woman from getting into my car. This did not make her happy, so she turned around and began slapping her backside. I looked in horror, which really did not make her happy, so she pulled up her jean skirt and pushed her bare bottom against my car window. Luckily, traffic cleared and I was able to make my turn without seeing any more body parts.
What does this have to do with the flying fig review you ask? A lot.
1) don't come that way unless you want to see crazy lady body parts
2) take your daughter to the Flying Fig when she gets dumped. She will always appreciate it.Listed in: Better in the Summer, Locally Sourced
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Review from Morgan R.
2/15/2010 1 Check-in Here
If I could give Flying Fig 3.5 stars I would. I feel like I am cheating the establishment a little only giving 3 stars, but given the choice of "A-OK" and "Yay! I'm a fan!" I lean toward A-OK.
First, I need to give the folks there major props for being so nice. Our reservation on Open Table never made it into their system and yet they were more than willing to accommodate us on a Friday night. I was honestly expecting to be told that we were SOL, but they were awesome.
The French 77 is a great cocktail. I drink St. G and 'pagne pretty regularly, but never with fresh lemon juice. It tasted like British lemonade. Yum. The small plates are really the stars here. The bacon wrapped dates stuffed with chorizo were phenomenal. The stuffed banana peppers were really amazing as well.
Entrees were a bit more "meh". The hangar steak was flavorful, but the chimicurri-style sauce overpowered the beef. The short rib was much better; it had a nice combination of caramelized exterior with tender beef flavored by fat renderings. Both the roasted potatoes with the hanger steak and the mashers with the short rib needed more salt. They were flat, bland.
Dessert was lovely: fresh, housemade doughnuts; two kinds served with an amazing fig compote. Perfect to split between two people to end the meal.
I think Flying Fig really wants to be a tapas style restaurant and offers entrees for those who aren't ready for tapas. Given that, I would stay away from the entrees and order up all of their small plates and sample and enjoy. It is a much more enjoyable experience than the normal courses, anyway! -
Review from Sarah H.
11/1/2009
Came here for the Sunday night happy hour.
I thought it was good.
Not great.
Not 4 or 5 stars by any means, IMO
We had tempura green beans, bleu cheese burgers, french fries and pork nachos.
Average. Painfully average, as I went in here with very high expectations.
Poo. -
Review from Karen W.
Tempe, AZ
11/8/2009
Tried the restaurant week menu here. For the most part- delicious. For appetizers, the chicken livers are tender on the inside, flavorful, with a nice breadcrumb crust on them. The dates were also very good- a mix of sweet with smokey bacon and spicy chorizo. For the entrees- Hanger steak- Tender! Great flavor! Probably the best tasting steak I've had in some time. The scallops with pasta- well, just OK. The scallops were great, and the ingredients in the meal themselves tasted good on their own, but when combined, I felt like they were lacking a cohesiveness to make the dish taste just right. Dessert was great- had some chocolate banana bread pudding and tried some apple tart. Both had great flavor and were a perfect finish to our meals.
The meals are good sized portions, and we had very attentive service. I'd definitely like to go here again (but I will not order scallop pasta next time). -
Review from Hank B.
Lakewood, OH
9/17/2011
I've been a fan of Flying Fig for a long time, however last night's mediocre experience may have changed that. Is the food still good? Yes, but the menu is tired. It's the same dishes that have been listed all year. The appetizer special? Mushroom soup - now that's some creative cuisine!. Time for an update. Although the menu has become a bit boring, the worse part of last night was the service. It was just plain bad. We spent most of our time there waiting and not eating. It's not a good night when your evening consists of wondering when or if you might get food or see a server. We arrived at 7 PM, by 8 we had managed to score a drink, however we had yet to see any food, as a matter of fact we had yet to even order any food. The service at Flying Fig has always been average at best - it's the food that's kept us coming back. After last night's meal with the tired menu and bad service I'm not sure we have a reason to return.
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Review from Deborah H.
New York, NY
8/2/2007
It's unpretentious, it's chic, it's very tasty.
If I lived in Cleveland, the Flying Fig would easily be my favorite restaurant. I love dining out in smaller cities because you can eat at excellent restaurants for excellent prices! I read about this place on the plane ride over in the Continental magazine and immediately put it on my list of places-to-dine.
Service was the best I've had: our waitress was friendly (but not to the point of loquaciousness) and helpful (but not to the point of being overbearing). She made sure to recommend the perfect wine to go along with fish and duck. There's both outdoor and indoor dining.
I fell in love with the herbed ricotta gnocchi... The pasta was firm but not too chewy, and was accented very well by fresh herbs and cheeses. Unfortunately, the duck entree was a little dry, and a tad past my requested medium doneness. The pain perdu dessert (brioche french toast w/ apples and ginger ice cream) was refreshing and a nice ending to a heavy meal.
If I come here again, I'm almost positive this rating would change from 4.5 to five stars. -
Review from Sheila F.
Cleveland, OH
5/11/2008
When my husband was looking for a date night restaurant, yelp users sealed the deal on his decision to take us to The Flying Fig. Boy, am I grateful!
The Flying Fig was fabulous in every way. It's not quite formal enough for an anniversary or Valentine's day, but not casual enough for an everyday night out- which makes it a perfect first date restaurant or a great night out with friends. The waitstaff was very attentive and answered our questions in a way that wasn't pretentious, despite the fact that some of the items on the menu were a bit obscure.
The food was absolutely delicious. I ordered a steak dish with sides of asparagus and potatoes au gratin. My husband ordered a pork dish wrapped in pancetta. Although I can't recall the details of the sauces, they were all unique, yet not overpowering.
My only complaint is that the decor was lacking a bit. The lighting was nice, but sometimes low lighting is a clever way to hide a dull atmosphere. No worries, though- you can always hop across the street to the wine bar for nicer ambiance. -
Review from Ben H.
Cleveland, OH
2/13/2011 2 photos
My wife and I visited here looking for a nice little place to enjoy a weekend meal. Although we didn't have any expectations (other than the 4.5 star yelp rating), we left a little disappointed. The environment was nice,but the comfort was below average. The chairs were small and wobbly and the tables were close enough together to hear what was going on with the neighbors sick grandma and the difficulty of her partners work/life balance.
The food was good, but not great either. Lets start with the basics - the bread. As you can see by my photo, the bread just didn't do it. The olives were good (not to lolita standards), and the salads were literally iceberg lettuce smothered in oil. The highlight of the meal was the hangar steak, but it was covered in caramelized onions which overpowered the steak itself.
We both had a drink, an appetizer, a salad and we shared an entree and were out the door for $75. All in all, not a bad spot, but I expect a little more for the pricetag. -
Review from Sara G.
Jacksonville, FL
5/25/2011
Great service, delicious food, and a sweet little market next door. Tasty homemade cookies for dessert. The bonus is a parking lot right next door for cheap.
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Review from Sarah Z.
Cleveland, OH
1/27/2008
Be prepared for a foodigasm.
This is definitely my favorite restaurant in Cleveland. The food is elegant yet not overdressed. The staff is knowledgable but not condescending. The atmosphere is romantic but still fun.
The chef definitely takes pride in her craft and respects the ingredients that she uses. The menu is very seasonal making sure only ingredients that are in season and of good quality are used. The only recommendation I can make due to this is try the duck (however it is prepared it is decadent), the molten chocolate cake with fig ice cream (yumm), and the martini specials at the bar (a different celebration of flavors everynight)
