OHIO CITY, Ohio — The latest hot spot to open in Ohio City comes to Cleveland from the owners of the Edda coffeehouse and café, the Pioneer upscale sports bar, and the Truss rooftop event venue.
A shared-plate steakhouse by the name of Jaja does not disappoint, with unique décor and menu choices courtesy of the team at Harbor Bay Hospitality (HBH).
Jaja Executive Chef Brian Whalen and HBH Director of Restaurant Operations Julie Marlowe showcased all it has to offer in a First Look on What's New, highlighting the energy they hope guests feel and what they hope they take away after a visit.
"We hope guests leave with a deeper sense of wanderlust, and as if they’ve just gotten a taste of traveling around the globe in one sitting, and had a dining experience different from anything they've enjoyed in Cleveland thus far," Marlowe said. "We want guests to feel comfortable yet elevated in our lush, intimate dining room, and socialize over the globally inspired small plates that will arrive alongside exceptional service. Jaja’s eclectic design will evoke a sense of curiosity, free-spirit, and discovery in each guest."
From the moment guests walk through the door, it's a sensory experience one won't soon forget. Designed by Chicago-based Studio K, Jaja is intended to celebrate the “wild and free” with its sophisticated design details. To tie into the desired sense of wanderlust, notes of nature are incorporated throughout the space along with the use of texture, lush greenery, and eccentric patterns. And to fully connect with nature, there's a retractable glass roof above the dining room, that the teams hopes creates a sense of connectivity with the stars above and welcoming in the fresh air.
Ohio City felt like the perfect spot for HBH to expand its footprint. "With a team full of Cleveland natives, and several other Harbor Bay Hospitality concepts in the same immediate vicinity, Ohio City felt like a no brainer," Morales said. "The historic market, lively community, and growing popularity adds to the draw this neighborhood has."
The menu at Jaja certainly adds another compelling reason to visit the area. Described by Whalen, their offerings are great for an intimate outing or a more social occasion.
"Jaja is a high-design modern supper club that serves a globally inspired take on the classic steakhouse with innovative small plates meant to be shared with a date or a group, Argentine-style wood-fired meats and seafood, and memorable desserts," Whalen said. "The wine program at Jaja features a curated list of bottles you may not see on many other lists, but are sure to love, and focus on natural, organic and biodynamic production.
"The cocktail menu features modern takes on classics - think a margarita with a salt foam garnish instead of a salt rim - that are as beautiful in presentation as they are delicious."
In addition to the dining room, there is also a balcony patio section available for additional seating, private parties, and more.
Those interested can visit Jaja, Tuesday through Sunday. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
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