We're going to Kentucky, We're going to the Fair!

We're actually going to the West Side Market!  After a glorious brutal win on Clark fields with Team Arterx, I rushed home to greet Stefanie (sister), Kurt (brother in law) and Chase (nephew) at the apartment. This was the little  guys first viewing of my new place in Lakewood and he was such a big boy walking up the three flights of stairs to get to the space.  After a quick tour we heading towards Ohio City in search of "Big Fish" as Chase kept saying. 1pm on a Saturday at the market is a crazy time to go, but it added to the cultural ambiance of the visit. Recycled Shopping bags in hand Stef and I set out to grab some fresh produce while Kurt and Chase had a learning lesson in fruits and veggies. If you have never heard a 2 year old say "asparagus", I can tell you its absolutely adorable! I grabbed avocados, asparagus, cucumbers and a huge head of cabbage (I'm gonna reattempt cabbage and noodles - wish me luck).

We stepped inside the complex to peruse the over 70 vendors that provide meat, dairy  products, pastries and seafood to the greater CLE area.  Stef had a shopping list so Kurt, Chase and I walked around looking for the "big fish" Chase wanted to see.  We tasted popcorn, tried some beef jerky and of course got a sausage sandwich at Franks.  Stef walked away with some great deals and I snapped some fun pictures.

 Chase and his catch of the day

 Kurt and Chase checking out some seafood

 Kurt also found a favorite at Vera's Bakery

Even though he's not looking at the camera, the propped elbow on my shoulder proves his stud status

Check out the West Side Market here to find out more about this historic working landmark.  

Here's to a great weekend - Cheers Cleveland!  -S

Next Stop ------>  The Root Cafe

Get Grilled...

Last night, my sister called to discuss our adventure plans for today:

Steffie - "So, is this place like fancy?"

Shel - "Ummm, No, its more like artsy, eclectic. Very friendly people, and some of the best food on the west side"

Steffie - " Oh okay good, I can't wait to see your place."

That's right, the family is trekking out from Willoughby to see my new abode at the corner of Lake and Cove. Grammy, Aunt Kristi, Mom and Stefanie will all be coming to see the new place and take me out to lunch at Melt Bar and Grilled in Lakewood. Hence, why I'm up at 7.57am on a Sunday. No I'm not getting ready for church; the ooozie cheesiness of a Melt sandwich is a holy enough experience for me. Ultimately, I'm trying to make my space look like a home and dispose of the empty bottle of wine on the kitchen counter that was easily downed last night.

I went to Melt's website to check out the hours and did a little bit of exploring. It seems as though my friends back home will soon be able to enjoy "The Kindergarten" without the drive into Lakewood. Melt is opening a second establishment on Cedar Rd. in Cleveland Heights. With its close proximity to Lee and Coventry, the East Side venture will pull in a similar crowd as the Lakewood restaurant.

My favorite combination at Melt is the "Half Combo". Half of "The Kindergarten", with your choice or cheese and topping, side salad and choice of soup...which is usually the vegetable chili. Favorite Salad (My usual order - I have a bit of a weak stomach to handle all of the above) is the "Bread, Bacon and Blue". The salad is a huge pile of fresh greens, blue cheese, fresh made herb croutons and warm bacon balsamic dressing. I usually add grilled chicken on top, but steak can also be added.

Today, we have the Sunday Brunch menu to choose from as well. This includes breakfast combos and Belgian waffles.

I love the quirkiness of Melt. From the year round Christmas decorations to the random coffee mugs that are used to serve soup, Melt is a conversational piece in itself at every table in the Pub. I can't wait for my family to get here... all this talk about food is making me a bit hungry!

Enjoy!

http://www.meltbarandgrilled.com/

New Beginnings

Halloween weekend is coming up and we are very excited to say that the Space will be picking up from its current location in Willoughby and heading to the West Side! Lakewood, Ohio will become our new stomping ground and we couldn't be happier. With its close proximity to Downtown Cleveland, Lakewood will provide Studio Space and its writers the chance to branch out in the music and art scene. Currently we are working on interviews with up and coming Cleveland artist and the fun doesn't stop there. Keep following along! We will be updating soon!

Leasing Office

Today is a great day. Not only is it Friday; a day when if all else fails, you watch movie trailers at work. But its also the day when I officially sign my lease to the new place in Lakewood.

Lakewood, Ohio. What can be said? Aside from the fact that its close to downtown CLE and the CLE Metroparks, its also has great history and an amazing social scene.

First things first, I'm not a newbie to the Lakewood scene. Working in Rocky River for the past year, I have learned to love and appreciate the surrounding areas known simply as the West Side. Don't fret East Siders - I still love Willoughby and all that it has to offer, BUT I'm ready to try something new!

Secondly, I finally found a place that has everything I want (well almost). Right price, right size, wood floors, high ceilings. Only downfall - NO PARKING. So street parking it is, not a problem for Izzy. Izzy is my car for those of you who are unaware... I'm sure one day I will write about all the loves in my life, but for today a simple introduction will do: Izzy the Impreza.

Well, I'm off to sign the papers!