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19 Cleveland
Master Critic Review
19 Cleveland
8.0
Opened in 2018 by owner Eyal Hen, 19 Cleveland channels Tel Aviv’s café culture into a Nolita space filled with whitewashed walls, greenery, and an always-on soundtrack. Contemporary Mediterranean plates, from hummus and smoked eggplant to a beloved falafel burger, make it a flexible choice for brunch, casual dates, and small-group dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
“Jerusalem-style” focaccia, Falafel burger, Smoked eggplant carpaccio
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Tel Aviv–inspired small plates, cocktails, and music in Nolita.
Who should go: Friends or dates craving modern Israeli flavors and cocktails.
When to visit: Evenings for full vibe; brunch for sunlit, relaxed meals.
What to order: Jerusalem-style focaccia, falafel burger, smoked eggplant carpaccio.
Insider tip: Bar seats keep wait times shorter and give best view of room.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Nolita; expect metered spots to be scarce after 6pm. Nearest reliable option is paid garages on Lafayette or Bowery.
Dress code: Smart casual; Nolita-lean dressy is common. Jeans are fine, but most guests opt for elevated tops or light eveningwear.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is doable at two-tops but can be energetic during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, depending on weather and group size.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—hummus, salads, Jerusalem focaccia, and the falafel burger anchor several vegetarian-friendly plates.
Vegan options: Moderate—some spreads, salads, and vegetable dishes qualify; mains are more limited.
Gluten-free options: Good selection—many dips, proteins, and salads are naturally gluten-free, but breads and some fried items are not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The warm lighting, greenery, and Tel Aviv café vibe strike a balance between casual and polished, making it easy for conversation without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes—but waits can build during peak dinner times. Small parties have the best luck, especially if willing to take bar seats.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat. The menu works for older kids who enjoy Mediterranean flavors, but the room skews adult and social; best for families with teens rather than young children.
Best For
Better for: Atmospheric brunches, modern Israeli small plates, and a lively social vibe that leans stylish without being intimidating.
Skip if: You want quiet, hushed dining; need extensive vegan mains; or prefer more traditional, region-specific Mediterranean menus.