If you’ve lived in Cleveland or Lakewood long enough, you know the panic that set in back in 2016. The original Diner on Clifton, a staple at the corner of West 117th and Clifton for nearly two decades, was losing its lease. It felt like the end of an era. People weren't just losing a place to get eggs; they were losing a communal living room where the servers knew your name and your "usual" was already on the grill before you even sat down.
Thankfully, the story didn't end there. After a two-year hiatus that felt like an eternity for fans of their corned beef hash, the restaurant returned as Dinerbar on Clifton. It’s just a block away from the old spot, but it’s a whole different beast.
The Resurrection of the Diner Bar on Clifton
The move from 11637 Clifton Blvd to the current spot at 11801 Clifton Blvd wasn't just a change of address. It was a total brand evolution. Owner Perry Drosos took a former PNC Bank and flipped it into a sleek, "Modern American Diner" that manages to keep the soul of the old place while adding some much-needed 21st-century upgrades.
Honesty time: the old place was cramped. You were basically sitting in your neighbor's lap while trying to enjoy a patty melt. The new diner bar on clifton has double the square footage. It has high ceilings, Fornasetti wallpaper that looks like it belongs in a boutique hotel, and—praise be—restrooms that are actually on the main level.
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But the biggest change is right there in the name. Adding "Bar" wasn't just for show. They now have a full-service bar that curves through the center of the room. It means you can pair your breakfast-for-dinner with a bracing margarita or a mimosa. It’s a vibe shift that turned a traditional morning spot into a genuine all-day destination.
What to Eat When You Finally Get a Table
The menu is massive. It’s a double-sided beast that can be a little overwhelming if you’re indecisive. Most people go for the classics, and for good reason.
- House-Made Corned Beef Hash: This isn't the canned stuff. It’s thick, salty chunks of meat mixed with tender potatoes and sweet onions.
- Chicken Pot Pie: Served in a hot skillet with a crust so flaky it’s borderline criminal.
- The Risotto Balls: One of the "new" additions that quickly became a fan favorite. They’re deep-fried, filled with pesto and melted cheese, and served with marinara.
One of the best kept secrets here is the pastry program. Chef Annabella Andricks is a wizard with sugar. You’ll see a glass display case near the bar that usually features giant, overstuffed Ho-Hos, salted caramel cheesecakes, and rainbow "funfetti" cakes. If you leave without a slice of something, you’ve basically failed the mission.
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The Community Vibe is Real
It’s easy to talk about the food, but the real reason the diner bar on clifton survived a two-year closure is the people. When the original location closed, some of the staff had been there for 15 or 20 years. That kind of loyalty is unheard of in the restaurant industry.
When they reopened in 2018, the "soft opening" turned into a full-blown mob almost instantly. People weren't just there to eat; they were there to welcome back a friend. It’s a mix of old-school regulars who have been coming since the "Clifton Lunch" days and younger Lakewood residents who just want a good burger and a drink on a heated patio.
The Realistic Side of Dining Here
Let's be real for a second. No place is perfect. Because it’s so popular, the diner bar on clifton can get chaotic. If you show up on a Saturday morning at 11:00 AM, expect a wait.
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The parking situation can also be a bit of a headache. There is a small lot, but it fills up fast, and you might find yourself circling the side streets of Lakewood. Also, while the new tablet-based ordering system is efficient for the kitchen, it can occasionally feel a little impersonal compared to the old-school paper tickets.
Why it Still Works in 2026
In an era where every new restaurant feels like a pre-packaged corporate concept, this place feels lived-in. It’s "sleek and stylish" as their tagline says, but it doesn't feel cold. It still feels like a neighborhood joint where you can wear a hoodie or a suit and nobody cares.
The hours are pretty consistent—usually 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily, with slightly earlier openings on the weekends for the brunch crowd. If you’re looking for a recommendation, try going on a Tuesday at 4:00 PM. You get the Happy Hour deals (4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on weekdays), no wait for a booth, and the full attention of the bar staff.
Your Game Plan for a Visit
If you're planning a trip to the diner bar on clifton, here is the best way to do it without the stress:
- Check the Case First: Walk past the host stand and see what desserts are in the case. They sell out fast, and you might want to ask them to set a slice of that chocolate caramel tart aside for you.
- The Patio is King: If the weather is even remotely nice, ask for a seat on the elevated patio. It’s great for people-watching on Clifton Blvd.
- Go Beyond Breakfast: While the omelets are great, their "Hot Favorites" like the open-faced roast turkey with mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food.
- Parking Hack: Don't stress the main lot. Look at the side streets immediately to the north of Clifton; it's usually a shorter walk than you think.
The transition from a 24-hour "Clifton Lunch" to the polished diner bar on clifton has been a wild ride for the owners and the community. It’s a rare success story of a local landmark evolving without losing its identity. Whether you’re there for a $7 Nutella shake or a full New York strip steak dinner, you’re part of a Cleveland tradition that refused to stay closed.