With the 2026 Winter Games in full swing in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, you may be inspired to taste your way around the globe. As athletes from all nations gather in the spirit of competition, the Playhouse Square District offers its own global showcase one plate at a time – no passport required!
Starting off our culinary journey in the USA, District offers a menu that features contemporary American dishes with Mediterranean soul, European influence and local focus. For your “opening ceremony,” the filet mignon packs a gold‑worthy punch of flavor, and the fire‑and‑ice dessert is the perfect dramatic finish.
Heading south to Mexico, 1942 Tacos + Tequila serves authentic tacos and margaritas. Start strong with the 1942 sampler, featuring Mexi‑rolls, empanadas, chicken quesadillas, and a special sauce that sets the tone for your flavor adventure. Pair it with a house margarita for a winning combination.
Crossing the Atlantic, we land in Ireland, where the nation’s winter sports strengths lie in sliding sports such as skeleton and alpine skiing. Slide on over to Parnell’s Pub for a classic Guinness or a glass of Jameson whiskey – the perfect way to stay fueled for competition.
Across the pond in Germany, Hofbräuhaus took home three gold medals, one silver, and one bronze in the 2025 Ohio Craft Brewers Cup, a.k.a. the “Brewery Olympics.” Enjoy the BBA Kaiser Schwarz alongside a big plate of Schnitzel, and you’ll feel like you’ve climbed the podium yourself.
Arriving in the host country of this year’s games, Italy brings warmth to the soul even in winter’s chill. Escape the cold by cozying up next to the fireplace at Cibreo Italian Kitchen, and feel like you’ve taken a trip to Tuscany. From the Cibreo Bolognese to the Chicken Parmigiana, every dish is a winner.
Traveling east to the Mediterranean coast, Sittoo’s showcases traditional Lebanese recipes made with the finest ingredients. The Shish Kabob entrée, char‑grilled marinated beef served with salad and cinnamon‑kissed rice pilaf, is a flavorful contender for your personal podium. And if that doesn’t “peak” your interest, the assorted baklava pastries will satisfy your sweet tooth. Open for breakfast and lunch, Zaytoon Lebanese Kitchen is also gold-medal worthy, serving handcrafted family recipes. Start your morning with the Steak Shawarma Hash or stop for a Falafel Pita as an afternoon pick-me-up!
Our journey continues into Northeastern Asia at Gochujang where street style meets authentic Korean cuisine. South Korea holds the most medals in short track speed skiing. Athletes compete in heats, with only the fastest advancing. The stakes are high and the tension is hot, perfect setting for enjoying an order of Korean street chicken with spicy buldak sauce. If spice isn’t your thing, Gochujang offers milder options such as chicken rice bowls, sweet fried tteok and customizable Korean corn dogs.
Our final destination lies east of the Korean Peninsula: Japan. This year marks Japan’s 23rd appearance in the Winter Games. Sushi En - located in the Bulkley Building - is guaranteed to deliver a delicious dining experience. Warm up from the winter chill with a comforting bowl of ramen or savory yaki udon. You also can’t go wrong at the sushi bar, featuring crowd favorites like the Broadway Roll, Classic California Roll and Scallop Roll. Complete the experience with a refreshing Japanese soda for a perfectly well‑rounded meal
Whether you're cheering from home or stepping out between performances, these restaurants let you experience a taste of the world without leaving Cleveland. For more dining options in the Playhouse Square District, please visit playhousesquare.org/dining.