RNC

     Next week Republicans from all across the country will converge on Cleveland to nominate their candidate for the upcoming presidential election in November.  I must admit that I am less interested in that process than I am in their choice of regional culinary delights available to them.

     Cleveland's many immigrant groups and significant blue-collar demographics continue to play an important role in defining the area's cuisine.  Ethnically, Italian foods as well as several Eastern European cuisines, particularly those of Poland and Hungary, have become gastronomical staples for the area.  Prominent examples would be pizza, chicken paprikash, stuffed cabbage, pierogi and kielbasa.  Favorites among residents are City Chicken and the Polish Boy, meals that are both hearty and inexpensive.


     Cleveland is also where Hector Boiadi (Chef Boyardee) got his start and where the Mr, Hero franchise began.


     And for those with a sweet tooth, go to any number of bakeries and order up a coconut bar or a cassata cake.

More on Cleveland cuisine tomorrow.