March is shaping up to be a lively month in the Playhouse Square District, bringing a mix of seasonal traditions and fresh starts. From beloved fish fry spots and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to the shift into Daylight Saving Time and the first signs of spring, there’s plenty to look forward to. Whether you’re craving good food, planning festive outings or just excited to welcome longer, sunnier days, here’s what’s happening in the district this month.
Fish Fry Fridays
Fish fry season has o-*fish*-ally arrived! Throughout the Lenten period, spots across the Playhouse Square District are serving up special Friday menus you won’t want to miss.
The Friars’ Table is offering fish fry specials every Friday throughout Lent, including Good Friday. Guests can choose from two lunch options: fried cod or fried shrimp, each served with chips and coleslaw. For dinner, the restaurant features fried cod or fried shrimp paired with coleslaw and mac & cheese. All specials are available for both dine-in and carry-out. The regular menu also includes a variety of seafood options, such as Salmon St. Celestine and Fish a la Mont Athos for dinner.
Hofbräuhaus Cleveland is celebrating fish fry season with a lineup of special menu offerings. The Lenten menu in the bierhall features Clam Chowder, Shrimp Po Boy, Cod and Perogies, Sauteed Pollock, and more. Fridays at the Haus always include live music from local bands. So, grab your family or a group of friends for a fun start to the weekend! Prost!
Additionally, Yours Truly offers fish fry specials every Friday all year long. Guests can choose from the Fish Fryday entrée, which includes a lightly battered filet of cod served with coleslaw and either cottage fries or red skin potatoes, or they can opt for the tavern fish sandwich. The menu also features a filet of cod and grilled salmon that are available any day of the week.
St. Patrick’s Day Fun
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with authentic Irish spirit at Parnell’s Irish Pub. The festivities kick off in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the warm atmosphere and classic Irish favorites. Raise a perfectly poured pint of Guinness or savor a smooth sip of Jameson as you join friends and neighbors for one of the most beloved celebrations of the year. Whether you're popping in early or settling in for the craic, Parnell’s adds a lively dose of Irish spirit to your St. Patrick’s Day plans.
At Hofbräuhaus, doors open at 8 a.m. with a full Kegs & Eggs menu, green beer, and all-day food and drink specials that keep the celebration going strong. Live entertainment kicks off with the Brian Panke Duo from 8 -10:30 a.m., followed by the Cleveland Memorial Firefighters Pipes & Drums at 9 a.m. The fun continues into the afternoon as the Irish Troubadours take the stage from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. It’s the perfect place to feel a little extra luck this St. Patrick’s Day.
Springing Forward
Daylight Saving Time has officially arrived—and yes, we’re all feeling that lost hour of sleep. But don’t worry: the Playhouse Square District has you covered with two great spots that make early mornings a little easier (and a lot tastier).
Corbo’s Bakery is a great choice if you need a morning or afternoon pick‑me‑up. Their fresh‑brewed coffee can help shake off the sleepiness, and pairing it with one of their signature Italian pastries is guaranteed to brighten even the groggiest morning of the year.
Close by in the Bulkley Building, The Brassiere offers a cozy and calming atmosphere, which is ideal if you’re easing into your day. With homemade pastries, sandwiches, espresso drinks and unique desserts, it’s the kind of place where you can sip, unwind and slowly welcome the morning back into focus.
Sunshine Returns
The days are already beginning to warm up here in Northeast Ohio, and it’s bringing all the best vibes with it. Sunny afternoons, lifted spirits and, best of all, the chance to enjoy a great meal outdoors again!
Located at Playhouse Square Plaza, Something Good Social Kitchen brings all the flavor and feel‑good energy with burgers, hot dogs and creative eats that are as fun as the season itself. Every meal you enjoy helps feed someone in need. So, as the weather warms and spirits lift, treat yourself to a meal that feeds both your mood and your community.
It is also the perfect time to “scoop” up some happiness at Ben & Jerry’s! Whether you’re craving a waffle cone, a milkshake or a sundae piled high with chunks and swirls, it all tastes even sweeter when you’re enjoying it under blue skies and that first warm spring breeze. With late hours that keep theater fans and evening explorers smiling, plus exclusive flavors you can only find here, it’s the sweetest little spring fling Cleveland has to offer.
For more information on the Playhouse Square District, visit playhousesquare.org/district.