Just got in from my maiden voyage to Don's Lighthouse....
Walked in at 8:30 p.m. to the sounds of Chicago, don't know what song or record but had to be one of their hits, from the 70's. The only thing more empty than the song was the restaurant. Never afraid to state the obvious, I ask "How does this place stay in business?" Sea-faring obviously isn't in season so I give them the benefit of the doubt.
We are seated in the ubiquitous hunter green table trimmed with the equally offensive wainscot effect; the same type of combination that is responsible for doing in countless other eateries throughout the midwest. Service is speedy and efficient. Beer is quick to follow and cold and the salad is seasonably fresh with ample fruit strewn about. Two for two.
Shortly after the $5 burger arrives with more than a handful of fries. Perfect. I've easily paid double before but that argument isn't even worth having. The burger was a top five entry. The fries were also delicious. The Monday night special did not disappoint...still, I'm left wondering how such a massive place has managed to stay afloat?? Does the city of Cleveland support these guys financially as some type of a historic landmark or grant? You could fit the graduating class of Strongsville High inside the place yet there is only me and my guest and maybe three other tables requiring service; one of which hosted a guy talking about politics... "This country is five years in the hole but I'm confident Obama is the guy to get us out." I decline to announce his term is only four years. I guess from the looks of the decor the management at Don's Lighthouse is equally as bad at judging time. I digress.
Overall though I am equally impressed by the service and common sense to try to bring people in to sample different items at "the nice price" much the same as by the unintentional nice job of making the place hipster-unfriendly. The place is simply too huge though and they could really trim down or maybe offer a tour or make some extra dough and turn the place into a haunted lighthouse around Halloween. Dunno. Place would be smart to at least get creative; sell some sampling of micros, (selection consisted of Labatt, Bud and Great Lakes Dortmunder) and possibly update the tired (but clean) decor. Property has to be through the roof.
From one to ten:
Service: 9
Atmosphere: 3
Alcohol selection: 5
Price: 6.5
Food: 9
Amentities: 9 (on site free parking access to the highway)
Overall: 7.5