
Does the term "supper club" conjure up visions of exclusive restaurants where Frank Sinatra and his Rat Pack caroused over steaks and martinis? In reality, Midwest supper clubs offer fine dining and socializing in a more widely accessible setting.
Here's a brief look at the history of this enduring American classic, along with a list of the best supper clubs around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Supper clubs are often associated with Los Angeles and New York City, but the Midwest is deep in their DNA. In fact, the first supper club was opened in Beverly Hills, CA by a native of Milwaukee.
In their heyday during the 1930s, supper clubs were meant to be an outing for an entire evening. Contemporary supper clubs are less formal but retain the emphasis on traditional meat-and-seafood menus and lively social interaction.
1148 Main Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
Located in the iconic Flats of downtown Cleveland, Music Box Supper Club is truly a one-stop entertainment venue. Downstairs, guests dine on a menu of short ribs, fresh seafood, and other favorites prepared with some Caribbean flair. Upstairs is the concert hall that has hosted noted musical acts such as John Hiatt, Rufus Wainwright, the Smithereens, and Lucinda Williams. The supper club opens at 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday. From Monday through Wednesday, dining is available only for concerts and other events.
14 N. State St., Westerville, OH 43081
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As indicated by its slogan, "Exclusive - but Inclusive," Asterisk Supper Club aims to make elegant dining accessible to all. In addition to lunch and dinner of comfort food favorites, Asterisk offers traditional high tea daily from noon - 4 p.m. Sip on your choice of tea while nibbling on scones, sandwiches, and other accompaniments. Westerville was once known as the "Dry Capital of the World," but today Asterisk serves an assortment of classic and craft cocktails. Hours are noon - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 8 p.m. Sunday.
2919 State Route 430, Mansfield, OH 44903
While steak is a mainstay on the menu of most supper clubs, Oak Park Tavern is also known for its signature Lake Erie yellow perch. Sit at the bar and watch as your meal is prepared in the open kitchen. If you prefer a different view, relax outside on the all-season patio. Oak Park Tavern is open 3 - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 3 - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
940 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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A Midwest tradition takes on global flavors at Ampersand Asian Supper Club. Thanks to its sophisticated dining room and creative menu, Ampersand earned a spot on Columbus Monthly's list of Best New Restaurants in 2020. Customers rave about the rich miso soup and the binge-worthy nori fries, but the ramen dishes are the real stars of the show. Favorites include the mushroom-forward Fungus Among Us and pork-studded Tonkatsu. Ampersand is open daily from 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
797 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Dayton, OH 45459
Fans of nostalgia will love Paragon Supper Club, where the ambiance takes you back to the 1970s. Opened in 1978, the Paragon retains the brick wall, wood accents, and chandelier lighting of that era. Ribeye and filet mignon are highlights of the classic upscale menu, but check out the daily chef's features such as sauerbraten and 32-ounce Wagyu tomahawk. Hours are 5 - 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 5 - 11 p.m. Friday, 4:45 - 11 p.m. Saturday, and 5 - 9 p.m. Sunday.
94 N. High St., Dublin, OH 43017
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Can't decide between an upscale steakhouse or casual pub? Get the best of both at The Avenue Steak Tavern. The menu includes steaks, side dishes, and other classic supper club fare along with pub favorites such as roast beef on weck and crispy hot chicken biscuit. Save room for the banana bread pudding, a customer favorite topped with hazelnut chocolate and caramel. The Avenue is open 4 - 9 p.m. daily, with extended hours until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
4250 Chief Woods Lane, Moraine, OH 45439
Founded in 1961, Treasure Island Supper Club started out as a modest diner frequented by local General Motors employees. It has since grown to become a popular gathering place known for its spectacular U-shaped handmade wooden bar. The extensive collections of area memorabilia add to the community feel. Many customers recommend the house salad dressing, described as, "poppy seed dressing without the seeds." Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
580 Walnut St., Ste. 100, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Prime Cincinnati's mission statement couldn't be more simple or more profound: "A passion to serve." That passion comes through in everyone, from the chef to the wait staff. Looking for a place to unwind after work? Stop by for $7 MidWeek Martinis and some shareables from the happy hour menu. Enjoy live music on Wednesday and Friday or catch the big game on one of the 4K high-definition TVs. Dinner is served seven days a week and lunch is available weekdays from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
1926 Brown St., Dayton, OH 45409
True to its old-school roots, The Pine Club doesn't accept credit cards or reservations. Even George and Barbara Bush were once told it would be a 45-minute wait for a table. But the restaurant's four-star food and luxurious ambiance have gained national acclaim from the New York Times, Gourmet Magazine, and Cooking Channel, where The Pine Club was featured on "The Best Thing I Ever Ate." Hours are 4:30 - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 4 - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
If money (and calories) were no object, what would be the must-have items for your dream dinner?