Academy Tavern

My partner and I went to the Academy for our engagement dinner. We didn't want anything super fancy (or super pricey!) and we're not native to this area of Cleveland, so we pulled up some local restaurants and the Academy looked great to us. We weren't disappointed! After a very brief moment of confusion when we walked in - I thought it might be a UK pub-type setup, where you order at the bar - we sat ourselves and our server, the manager for the night (so sorry I forgot your name!) came right over. The manager was amazing: great service, really kind, and clearly loves the place. We each had an Ace pineapple cider, which was maybe one of the best ciders I've ever had (and I love hard ciders). On tap, perfect blend of sweet and dry, and the pineapple flavor isn't overpowering. I liked it so much I had a second. For food, we got six Buffalo wings, a basket of onion rings, and the Academy burger and fries. The wings were literally everything I want from a chicken wing: fresh, hot, tossed but not soaked in sauce. Some people might prefer a crisper wing - as far as I could tell, these weren't battered or floured (although I could be wrong) but for me they were perfect. The onion rings were fresh out of the fryer and not too greasy, so that's an immediate win. We didn't end up eating much of the burger, but that's through no fault of the burger! The portion of it I did have was well cooked, juicy, and thick. Great quality burger, I just wish I was hungry enough for it! And, of course, my fiancé's star of the show: the fries. Fries were the perfect thickness, not too thick and not too tiny, freshly cooked, and the seasoning on them was top notch. I think my partner ate more of the fries than any other part of the meal. All this and our meal and drinks came out to about $47! I literally did a double take at the bill because I couldn't believe it was so low. I want to give a special shout out to the manager (again, so sorry I forgot your name) for being so helpful and kind. Without him our experience would still have been great, but he was an absolute star.

Amazing vibe, authentic feel, and friendly staff. Chris & Jessica (the owners) are extremely hospitable. The Academy is one of my favorite places to go with friends. Todd provides top of the line service no matter the size of the crowd. *Side note: the wings are AMAZING! Garlic Parmesan (pictured) is my go to flavor! The Drink: Go Blue Update (as of 04/01/2022): Fish Fry Fridays during Lent are amazing! I had the Fried Pike combo (w/ fries, & coleslaw). Ridiculously delicious! And the size of the meal is definitely a shareable size! Next drink: Jameson Orange Lemonade— it’s a game changer. Love love love this drink. It’s smooth and tasty, and does what you want it to do 🍹

I stopped by after work for a beer and some food. I've had their wings before and they're pretty tasty, maybe a little overcooked but if you like dry wings these are for you. I've worked in a pub that sold wings so I get it. The atmosphere is super casual and friendly. The staff was pleasant and the service was prompt. Not much else to ask for. Will visit again.

Summary: great service and food along with strong drinks. Can’t go wrong here. Such an awesome and unpretentious neighborhood dive bar (and I mean that in the absolute best way possible)! Food selection is limited, but the Academy Burger and Thai wings are amazing. Probably the best bar grub I’ve ever had. Drinks are incredibly strong (but I’m certainly not complaining). Prices are a bargain to say the least ($7 for a double vodka soda). The bartenders are chill and friendly. Angel was great! This is definitely my new spot when I’m in Cleveland for work!

I held a gathering after my mother's memorial for those who couldn't make it during the day. The owner is from Shaker Heights High School, so I thought it would be a great place for old classmates to reconnect. The owner was so hospitable! We had the entire back indoor area, and it was perfect. They have music, good food and drinks. Some of my guests went outside in the patio area, which was great since Covid-19 is coming back. I will be back and will hold another gathering there for sure.