
When you think "bourbon," the first place that comes to mind is probably Kentucky. But with all due respect to our neighbors across the river, Ohio has plenty to offer when it comes to the most American of spirits. In every corner of the Buckeye State, you'll find great bourbon bars where you can sip your favorite whiskey neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a unique craft cocktail. Let's all raise a glass to the best bourbon bars in Ohio!
2767 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
It's hard to imagine a better hangout for bourbon aficionados than the Whiskey Bar. With its straight-to-the-point name and welcoming speakeasy vibes, it's a perfect place to sit and sip awhile. And with over 400 varieties of whiskey on deck, it's unlikely you'll run out of spirits to sample. The Whiskey Bar also has a friendly, easy-going staff of bartenders who are always happy to help you find the perfect bourbon for any palate. This is definitely a hidden gem in the Cleveland area.
2063 E. 4th St., Cleveland, OH 44115
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Offering one of the best bourbon collections in Northeast Ohio, Society Lounge is a staple of the Cleveland bar scene. With its stylish interior and Roaring 20s-inspired atmosphere, drinking here almost feels like stepping back in time. Society lounge is best known for their expertly-mixed craft cocktails (bourbon fans should sample the 'Death in New York') and prohibition-era ambiance, but they also offer a huge selection of spirits. Expect to be able to choose from 30-plus bourbons at any given time, and with a healthy selection of rye, scotch, and gin to boot.
8003 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026
The Bourbon Review named Oak & Embers one of the best bourbon bars in America in 2019, and they definitely know what they're talking about. This hole-in-the-wall in Chesterfield is all about the three B's: bourbon, barbecue, and beer. They serve an amazing selection of bourbon and craft beer to go with their smoky, savory pulled pork, beef brisket, and baby back ribs. And if you're in the mood for a cocktail, try one of their bourbon-centric signature mixed drinks. The "Follow the Smoke" is made with Makers Mark bourbon, Campari and Dolan sweet vermouth smoked with hickory.
36 E. Gay St., Columbus, OH 43215
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You'll find no shortage of great whiskey bars in Columbus, and the Buckeye Bourbon House is definitely one of the best. Their bourbon shelf is a thing of beauty, and they're always highlighting new and exciting bourbons, including a lot of small-batch spirits made right here in Ohio. They have over 50 whiskeys and bourbons to choose from, as well as crafty cocktails and a menu of elevated pub grub. They even offer bourbon flights for those who want to savor the different flavors. Buckeye Bourbon House also made Bourbon Review's ranking of the best bourbon bars in the Midwest for 2021.
843 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Over 300 whiskeys are just waiting to be sampled at the Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge, a High Street hangout that might just offer the best bourbon selection in Columbus. This cozy, intimate space is the perfect place to enjoy drinks with friends and enjoy the Prohibition-themed decor. In addition to a deep roster of bourbons, the Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge offers an incredible array of signature cocktails that run the gamut from approachable and sweet to bitter and spirit-forward. You'll never run out of new flavors to try here, but if you want a basic Old Fashioned made just the way you like it, this is a great place for that too.
1380 W. 3rd Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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A beloved staple of Columbus' Grandview Heights neighborhood, Barrel & Taps has everything you need for a good time. They always have a well-curated selection of bourbon ready to pour and craft beer on tap, and the indoor bar and outdoor patio each invite guests to stay awhile and enjoy themselves. There's a good chance there will be a food truck or two on-site if you get a little hungry. And with regular events like trivia nights, live music, and yoga on the patio, there's pretty much always something fun going on at Barrel & Taps.
1051 Goodale Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212
Having been awarded Best Creative Cocktails two years running in 614's ColumBest poll, High Bank Distillery Co. takes drinks seriously. Bourbon is featured in cocktails such as the End of Anxiety, which pairs nicely with the restaurant's many shareables. We're partial to the Crispy Brussels with sweet chili glaze and Shrimp Tacos with adobo marinated shrimp. In addition to Grandview, the owners of this bar and eatery are scheduled to open a second location in the Gahanna/New Albany area this year.
3934 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
Cincinnati is just a stone's throw across the Ohio River from Kentucky, so it should come as no surprise that the city has a lot to offer bourbon aficionados. The Littlefield is a great example. This hip Northside hangout features an eclectic interior and a breezy patio space, along with a great bourbon selection and plenty of local craft beers on tap. They make great cocktails too, like "The Fergus," made with bourbon, balsamic vinaigrette, ginger beer, and basil simple syrup. The Littlefield is also known for their elevated pub fare and Sunday brunch, which always includes vegan and vegetarian options alongside staples like burgers and shrimp-and-grits
1201 Broadway St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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You might never have guessed that biscuits and bourbon went together, but you will after visiting Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey. Their biscuit plates and biscuit sandwiches are to die for. Try the Rosewood—Korean fried chicken, house-made kimchi, and Gochujang BBQ between two golden, butter biscuits—and chase it with a house cocktail like the Boomtown Gold Rush or the Gold Fashioned. Boomtown always has around 50 varieties of bourbon, scotch, whiskey, and rye as well, and their whole vibe revolves around a creative take on classic American frontier food and drink.
251 Calhoun St., Cincinnati, OH 45219
Known for being a great happy hour hangout, Hop Scotch Craft Beer & Whiskey is the perfect place to grab a drink after work. They have a huge selection of bourbon and whiskey, along with plenty of excellent craft beer. The staff behind the bar is reliably friendly and knowledgeable, and weekly specials like karaoke and mix-and-match craft beer buckets, there's always a good time to be had. Hop Scotch has 100-plus varieties of whiskey and a menu of staple pub fare like wings and flatbread pizzas.
Ohio offers no shortage of great bourbon bars. What's your favorite watering hole?

Cupid's arrow has been hitting its mark all around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati! We're feeling the love at Cutler Real Estate, where we've entered into a "marriage" with LoLo Gifts to bring you the best free offers from local small businesses.
What will be the next restaurant, bakery, or candy shop to capture your heart? Find the answer among our fabulous lineup of February's offers.
4230 Belden Village Mall Cir. NW 4570, Canton, ON 44718
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The colorful, delicate treats at Le Macaron French Pastries are almost too pretty to eat. Emphasis on almost, because one bite of these sweet sensations will brighten anyone's day.
Le Macaron French Pastries brings a piece of Paris to Canton. In addition to more than 20 flavors of macarons, the charming patisserie offers Napoleons, éclairs, tarts, and meringues. For a refreshing change of pace, try one of their macaron shells with a scoop of luscious gelato.
740.263.1557
Monday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
75 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
No, "gourmet hot dog" is not an oxymoron. Expand your culinary horizons with your choice of creative hot dog options at Stray Dog Cafe.
As if there weren't already good reasons to visit the main library in downtown Akron, Stray Dog Cafe adds upscale fast food to the mix. The Mac & Cheese Dog takes comfort food to a new level, while the Stray Hog brings all your BBQ favorites together. Dogs are available in beef or turkey.
330.594.5392
Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
503 S. Court St., Medina, OH 44256
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Want to give your sweetheart some sugar? Head over to Frosted Cake Shoppe and pick out two cupcakes from the flavors of the day, such as PB&J, hot fudge, or sea salt caramel.
In May 2020, at the tender age of 18, Brittany became the owner of Frosted Cake Shoppe after a stint as a cake decorator. As someone who graduated high school at 13 and college at 18, Brittany has always been an overachiever, and that carries through to the mouthwatering baked goods from her shop.
330.952.2253
Monday and Wednesday - Friday: Noon - 6 p.m.
Saturday: Noon - 5 p.m.
4692 Kidron Rd., Kidron, OH 44636
You want Italian, he wants burgers? Pizza is common ground for all culinary tastes. The handmade pies at Whitmer's Pizza of Kidron will have you coming back for more.
Whitmer's Pizza of Kidron carries on the legacy of the original location in a historic general store in Wineburg. Customers also rave about the signature broasted chicken, available by the piece or in full dinners. Be sure to save room for their dessert pizza, topped with apple pie filling and vanilla glaze.
330.857.3000
Tuesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
163 W. Erie St., Kent, OH 44240
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Erie Street Kitchen is a great start or finish to a special date night. Share a plate of deviled eggs, fried green tomatoes, or one of their other delicious appetizers with your significant other.
Located in the iconic Venice Cafe, a Kent institution since 1951, Erie Street Kitchen serves up Southern favorites with a side trip into Asian flavors. Classics such as jambalaya, shrimp & grits, and chicken & waffles are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Nashville hot fried chicken and fried perch add new dimensions to traditional báhn mì sandwiches.
330.593.5928
Tuesday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
772 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Whether you prefer sweet or savory breakfast, bagels are always the answer. Start your day off right with a tasty breakfast bagel from The Lox Bagel Shop.
How good are the bagels at The Lox Bagel Shop? Good enough to land them on the "Best Bagels in America" list in Food & Wine Magazine. Their hand-rolled bagels, a pleasing mix of New York and Montreal styles, are boiled and baked in a live-fire oven. Get them as a hearty sandwich or with a simple schmear of cream cheese.
614.824.4005
Monday - Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
819 E. 185th St., Cleveland, OH 44119
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Yes, you may think of your significant other as "eye candy." But the term will take on a literal meaning once you see the shiny, hand-painted bonbons at Sweet Bean Chocolate.
Sweet Bean Chocolate is truly a labor of love for husband-and-wife team Bob and Kristin Barnes. Bob is in charge of the chocolate-making process, starting with roasting and grinding the cacao beans, while Kristin is the artist behind the hand-painted, molded final product.
216.795.5561
Wednesday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
4271 Harrison Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45211
2692 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208
Decisions, decisions. Do you use your $10 certificate on caramellows, chocolate-covered Oreos, or buckeyes? Fortunately, there's no wrong answer at Fawn Candy.
In 1946, WWII vet Paul "Pep" Guenther and his wife Jean opened Fawn Candy, selling homemade ice cream and confections. Today, their four daughters are keeping it all in the family, running Fawn Candy with assorted children, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. Their continued success led to opening a second location at Rookwood Pavilion.
Harrison Ave.
513.574.9612
Monday - Wednesday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Madison Rd.
513.351.4191
Monday - Wednesday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Thursday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday: Noon - 5 p.m.

Want to receive these great offers every month? We're not high-maintenance. Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get started.

Fizzy, often fruity, and just a little bit sweet, hard seltzer is quickly becoming a favorite drink among those who prefer a lighter flavor profile when indulging. Cincinnati seltzer lovers are in luck: The city is home to some of the most popular hard seltzer producers in the state, and many of its bars serve at least one brand. The following nine bars are some of the best places to enjoy a happy hour hard seltzer in and around Cincinnati.
18 W. 13th St., Over-the-Rhine, OH, 45202
Full of gleaming glass and sophisticated wood paneling, Sundry and Vice is a small old-fashioned bar with a classy, almost academic atmosphere. Its front window looks almost like a curio cabinet. Inside, patrons can sit atop the tall leather-covered bar stools and order drinks with captivating names like the Clover Club, the Jade Effect, and the Miracle Finnish.
In addition to their cocktail menu, Sundry and Vice also serves a pair of highballs made with classic New York Seltzer. You can choose from either mezcal mixed with Root Beer seltzer or vodka mixed with Peach Soda seltzer.
7885 E. Kemper Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45249
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Named for the day Ohio was founded (March 1, 1803), the March First Brewery is extremely proud of their state and heritage. This company produces the locally beloved Astra Hard Seltzer line of products, which was named to celebrate Ohio's under-recognized contributions to the field of space exploration.
You can visit the brewery and stop by the on-site bar to sample a few flavors of Astra seltzer drinks, including Bomb Pop, Red Cream Soda, and Crush. March First also serves plenty of food to accompany their drinks, including sandwiches, chips, and delicious fresh pizzas straight from the stone ovens of their pizza kitchen.
2940 Highland Ave. #230, Cincinnati, OH 45212
Part bar and part bowling alley, Fowling Warehouse might just be the best place in Cincinnati for hard seltzer lovers. In spring 2021 they hosted Cincinnati's very first Seltzer Fest, a celebratory exhibition with nearly a hundred different types of hard seltzer from local and national brands on tap.
Fowling Warehouse also offers a wide selection of hard seltzer from local partners year-round. One particularly fun menu offering is their Mystery Seltzer, an order which will get you one random can of hard seltzer from a selection of over 30 flavors. This can be a fun way to get your hard seltzer fix without limiting yourself to the same old standby flavors you always go for.
27 W. 7th St., Covington, KY 41011
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Prefer to sip your drinks in the cool, refreshing night air? The Rooftop is an open-air bar that has recently opened on top of the Braxton Brewing Company building. With 5,000 square feet of space and plenty of on-site amenities to enjoy (including lounge-style seating, umbrellas and canopies, a grassy lawn area, and more), this establishment offers a relaxed setting and an incredible view of Cincinnati's skyline.
The Rooftop's extensive drink menu includes four flavors of VIVE hard seltzer, including Sunrise Punch and Southern Punch. The fruity profiles of these picks matches perfectly with the bar's breezy atmosphere. Be sure to visit when the weather is good for the best possible experience!
2800 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206
Woodburn Brewing is a modern bar with a deep respect for its historical roots. The company chose to use phoenix iconography in its branding to celebrate the resurgence of Ohio's brewing culture in recent years. Now, they have become an integral part of this thriving sub-culture. The owners have gone the extra mile to create a diverse entertainment experience to complement their enticing array of drinks. The bar regularly hosts events like trivia nights, live performances, and even yoga classes on the premises.
On top of their artisan beer, this bar also serves several flavors of Astra hard seltzer, including Pink Lemonade and Baja Blast. They also offer Blackberry Breeze hard seltzer from Ohio's own FigLeaf Brewing Company.
793 E. McMillian St., Cincinnati, OH 45206
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Thanks to its offbeat location, The Comfort Station is one of the most distinctive bars in the Cincinnati area. The building was originally built as a public restroom and bathhouse back in the early 1910s and was recently converted into a commercial bar space by the same team that founded Sundry and Vice, another bar on this list. Patrons still enter the bar using the original Women's room door, an excellent touch that makes your visit feel unique from the moment you walk in.
This bright and intimate bar is all about fostering connections, and patrons are encouraged to bring outside food and stay a while if they want to. As for drinks, most are handcrafted cocktails that you won't find anywhere else. For instance, the bar's signature Mass Communicatin' hard seltzer cocktail blends the fruity flavors of strawberry and citrus with more complex notes of ginger and amaro.
1727 Logan St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
The Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom is a relatively recent addition to the Samuel Adams Brewery, but it has already grown a considerable local following. With both indoor and outdoor spaces for mingling and a growing clientele, this is an up-and-coming social spot for the city's younger crowd.
The bar's menu is largely focused on promoting their fresh-brewed Samuel Adams beer, but they also offer some Truly Hard Seltzer (one of the other brands owned by their parent company, the Boston Beer Company) and other drinks. Try a few different options as you relax in one of their leather-upholstered armchairs or admire the rustic barrel wall that pulls together their dark wood décor.
2804 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206
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Anjou is a very new bar that the owners decided to open after seeing so many of their favorite hangouts close during the 2020 pandemic. While it is still working to establish itself as a recreational venue, its bright, airy atmosphere gives it a unique appeal that should help it to stand out from the local competition.
Anjou serves Braxton Brewing's VIVE Dragonfruit and Mango hard seltzers as part of their lineup of local beers and spirits. The light fruity taste of these drinks goes perfectly with the cheery surroundings, but make sure you don't visit too late – the bar's doors close by midnight at the latest.
3210 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
If you prefer a casual atmosphere while you're out on the town, Millions Café is the place for you. This modest-looking dive bar serves an impressive selection of hard seltzers from both local and national brands, including Astra, Truly, and White Claw.
You can sip your drink while listening to music from the live DJ, participating in the bar's weekly trivia night, or just chatting with your fellow patrons. This bar is known to be very laid-back, so it's a great hangout spot for people who don't usually spend much time in Cincinnati's nightlife scene.
Which Cincinnati bar will you be sipping hard seltzer at next Friday night?

New Year's resolutions like losing weight are so last century. In 2022, why not resolve to learn more about your community with the help of Cutler Homes and LoLo Gifts?
We've teamed up to provide a monthly series of free gifts spotlighting local small businesses. Whether you pick up croissants in Northeast Ohio, appetizers in Columbus, or coffee in Cincinnati, make a resolution to check out these fabulous merchants.
Akron: Smoked Gouda Mac 'N' Cheese Bites
Columbus: Smoked Gouda Mac 'N' Cheese Bites
Wooster: A Pulled Pork Sandwich
Cincinnati: A Sandwich or Bagel, and a Coffee
4866 Everhard Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44718
Who says you can't improve on perfection? Cupcakes are heavenly, but the gourmet flavors at Nom Nom Cupcake Factory will take your appreciation to a whole new level.
About Nom Nom Cupcake Factory
The baked treats at Nom Nom Cupcake Factory are so amazing that delighted customers use them as wedding cakes. Each week features a rotating selection of flavors such as Salted Caramel and Cinnamon Toast. As if that weren't enough, the bakery has upped their game by offering gourmet flavored popcorn.
Contact and Hours
330.705.2560
Monday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m.
3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, OH 44333
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Yes, the blue-box mac 'n' cheese is classic comfort food. But get ready to enjoy the blissful sensation of biting into the smoked Gouda mac 'n' cheese bites from The Rail.
About The Rail
As a spinoff of Mike Mariola's City Square Steakhouse, it's no surprise that The Rail serves first-class burgers. Beef is 100 percent locally sourced, with several specialty burgers as well as extensive build-your-own options. The Rail is also known for their delicious four-cheese scratch-made mac 'n' cheese.
Contact and Hours
330.864.7245
Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
109 W. Washington St., Medina, OH 44256
Candy apples aren't just for fall. Bite into one of these delicious sweet treats with your gift from Candyapple & Co.
About Candyapple & Co.
Appropriately, Candyapple & Co. is an "offshoot" of a landscaping company specializing in orchards. Their dipped apples go far beyond caramel and candy to encompass more than 100 flavors, including root beer float, carrot cake, and sparkling wine. Be sure to check out their boutique with jewelry, skincare products, and other great gift items.
Contact and Hours
330.635.0132
Tuesday - Friday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
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Bread is sometimes referred to as "the staff of life." You're sure to agree after you use your $10 to try one of the tasty loaves from Brimfield Bread Oven.
About Brimfield Bread Oven
Technology may be king, but Brimfield Bread Oven still believes in old-school techniques. At this European-style bakery, all products are made from scratch with top-quality ingredients and baked in a wood-fired oven. Stop by on Saturday between 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. and take home a traditional wood-fired pizza for dinner.
Contact and Hours
330.474.7800
Thursday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
5839 Frantz Rd., Dublin, OH 43016
Even chefs at five-star restaurants agree that everything tastes better fried. That goes for mac 'n' cheese, the granddaddy of comfort foods, especially when they're made with gourmet cheese like the smoked Gouda mac 'n' cheese bites at The Rail.
About The Rail
Over the past few years, the gourmet Angus beef burgers at The Rail have earned awards and recognition from local and national publications. One of the favorites is the Mojo, made with a blend of beef and andouille sausage and getting some added kick from a topping of jalapeño slaw. Cool things down with one of two dozen brands of Ohio craft beer on hand.
Contact and Hours
614.725.3200
Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
128 S. Market St., Wooster, OH 44691
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Sample some legendary Southern BBQ without leaving town. Make sure you have plenty of napkins ready when you get your pulled pork sandwich at Omahoma Bob's BBQ.
About Omahoma Bob's BBQ
Omahoma Bob's BBQ achieves their authentic Texas-style taste with a dry rub of spices and classic low-and-slow cooking in the smoker. Hot Italian sausages and German brats are also created in-house. Complete your meal with turnip greens, red beans and rice, hush puppies, and other traditional sides.
Contact and Hours
330.262.9871
Tuesday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.
9701 Kenwood Rd., Blue Ash, KY 45242
Marx Hot Bagels has been a Cincinnati favorite since 1969. With the first bite of your sandwich or bagel, you'll understand why.
About Marx Hot Bagels
Don't settle for those frozen grocery store bagels. Marx Hot Bagels serves more than 30 varieties, all baked fresh daily. They make a perfect canvas for egg salad, lox, hummus, or just a simple schmear of cream cheese. Change things up with some bagel bread, bagel pretzels, or bagel thins.
Contact and Hours
513.891.5542
Monday - Sunday: 6 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
3471 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44118
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Croissants are the superstars of baked goods, serving equally well as breakfast pastry and base for a savory sandwich. How will you enjoy your two croissants from On the Rise Artisan Breads?
About On the Rise Artisan Breads
At On the Rise Artisan Breads, baking is truly an art. The bakers start work each day before the sun rises, using simple but high-quality ingredients to create breads, rolls, pastries, cookies, and quiches. For a real treat, don't miss the daily specialty flavors such as raisin challah, eclairs, and chocolate cherry batard.
Contact and Hours
216.320.9923
Tuesday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Resolve to keep the fun going all year long. Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get our monthly offering of freebies.

When the snow flies in Ohio, the fun has just begun! With opportunities for skiing, ice skating, winter hiking, and countless other activities, it's the perfect season to enjoy the outdoors in Ohio. Be sure to check out these nine amazing outdoor destinations in Ohio this winter.
16200 Valley Pkwy., Strongsville, OH 44136
Tobogganing at the Chalet at Mill Stream Run Reservation is a winter tradition in Northeast Ohio. With its two 700-foot refrigerated ice chutes, Mill Stream Run offers the thrill of a fast-paced toboggan ride all winter long, with or without snow. Just be sure to hold on tight—once you start moving, you're likely to top 50 miles per hour before you reach the bottom! You can always warm up in the Chalet or slow down and explore the park's snowshoe and cross-country ski trails while you're there. Mill Stream Run Reservation is operated by Cleveland Metro Parks and is just 20 minutes from the city.
10620 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026
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One of Ohio's top skiing destinations, Alpine Valley Ski Resort is nestled among the rolling hills of Northeast Ohio, less than 40 minutes from Cleveland. Their varied terrain includes gentle slopes that are great for beginners, as well as some more advanced slopes for seasoned skiers. Alpine Valley Ski Resort also offers equipment rentals and hands-on skiing courses with skilled instructors to help new skiers learn the ropes. If you get a little hungry between runs, stop in at the on-site restaurant for a bite, or warm up with a beverage at the Snow Belt Saloon.
5793 Boston Mills Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264
Endless winter adventures await at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This wild 32,500-acre playground in Northeast Ohio includes 125 miles of hiking trails open year-round. The 19.7-mile Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is especially popular among cross-country skiers thanks to its smooth grade, while the rugged Ledges Trail meanders among large rock formations that become encrusted in icicles every winter. Cuyahoga Valley National Park also offers some great opportunities for snow tubing and sledding, especially in the Kendall Hills section.
4265 E. Dublin Granville Rd., Columbus, OH 43230
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Blendon Woods Metro Park is one of the best places in Columbus to get away from city life for a while and experience nature. This 653-acre park includes a waterfowl refuge and nature center, with an elevated platform overlooking Thoreau Lake that's a popular year-round spot for bird watching. Blendon Woods Metro Park also includes several trails that are perfect for a winter hike. The 2-mile Sugarbush Trail is especially popular among cross-country skiers. Best of all, the park has a shallow, man-made pond that freezes over in winter to form a natural ice skating rink.
2905 Leibs Island Rd. NE, Millersport, OH 43046
A mere 30 minutes from Columbus, Buckeye Lake is one of the great winter destinations in Central Ohio. When the 3,100-acre lake freezes over in winter, it's one of Ohio's best ice fishing spots, thanks to its abundant populations of saugeye, panfish, and bass. Stop in one of the gear shops or cafes around the lake to warm up, and be sure to visit on January 22, 2022, for Winterfest. This annual event includes food and drink, live music, and various events around the lake, culminating in a spectacular fireworks show. Buckeye Lake is accessible for fishing through Buckeye Lake State Park, including a 4-mile shoreline path that connects the North Shore to Lieb's Island.
1000 Snow Valley Rd., Zanesville, OH 43360
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Central Ohio's premier ski and snowboard destination, Mad River Mountain is located just an hour from Columbus in the rolling hills of Zanesville. Skiing is available December through March most years on the 1,460-foot mountain, with a vertical drop of 300 feet. Mad River Mountain offers challenging runs for experienced skiers, as well as a learning area with easier terrain for beginners. There's even a tubing area that kids can enjoy while the grown-ups ski and a bar and grill in the lodge that serves up tasty drinks and pub grub.
3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden opened in 1875, making it the second-oldest zoo in the United States. It's one of the absolute must-visit attractions in the Cincinnati area, no matter the season. In winter, visitors have some particularly special events to look forward to, including the spectacular PNC Festival of Lights. Visit on a winter weekend for Penguin Days, an annual event that includes discounted admission and a chance to meet the zoo's resident penguins up close and in person. Penguin Days goes from January 10 to March 11.
520 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Fountain Square is at the center of Downtown Cincinnati. Every year from November through February, the square is overtaken by a massive outdoor ice rink open to public skating. A 90-minute ice skating session including skate rentals is just $10, and kids 4 and under can skate for free. The rink also includes a separate area for ice bumper cars, which are a heck of a lot of fun. Visit after dark to see Fountain Square lit up in holiday lights, and be sure to check out some of the shops and eateries that are just footsteps away. It's a perfect place for a romantic winter night out in Cincinnati.
1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
An outdoor sculpture gallery spanning more than 300 acres, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum is a unique place in any season. But it's a particularly magical place in winter, when the trees, trails, and more than 70 sculptures are dusted with snow. Every year, the park also hosts a spectacular holiday lights display. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum is located in the community of Hamilton, less than 30 minutes from Downtown Cincinnati.
Where will you be spending your time outdoors in Ohio this winter?