Back in the day, I really liked ABC. I still really like their food. It's just too chaotic for me usually. I used to live on the East Side... and never really understood how reluctant East Siders are to cross the river. Several years ago, W25th was a stretch. I moved downtown - just west of the river (literally - the river is my front "yard") and I have begun to understand why people use highways and venture all over the Greater CLE area when they live on the West Side. Ok... you might be asking where I am going with this...
Even though I loved ABC... XYZ seemed like a long haul (again, I realize the errors in my ways) several years ago when it opened. Even though... its what? A half-mile further? Ok, ok...
I finally ventured to XYZ for the first time this summer... expecting to experience the same ABC environment. Wrong. The food is equally foody and amazing.... but the environment is so much more sophisticated, and so much less... dive bar.
The patio in the summer is incredible. And, this place has carry out pizza. burgers are good. The salmon BLT is delish. Even the fries are tasty.
You're certain to run into interesting individuals here whom you can easily strike up conversations with at the bar or at another table. Friendly vibe, no crazy packed space. I like the end of the alphabet a little better these days...