This Chef Turned a Rundown Spot Into the Most Beloved Restaurant in Lakewood, OH

When executive chef and owner Anthony Romano took over the space formerly occupied by Players on Madison, he didn’t just slap a new name above the door.

He poured his soul into every detail — from the made-from-scratch menu rooted in healthy new American cuisine to the warm, come-as-you-are energy that makes first-time visitors feel like regulars.

Romano’s philosophy is refreshingly simple: “create a space that’s a reflection of his kind of place — relaxing, fun, and a celebration of life in the company of friends and family with good food and a great cocktail in hand.”

The name “Sarita” itself is layered with meaning — it’s a nod to Chef Romano’s mentor, and also the name of a beloved song by New Orleans band The Subdudes, one of Romano’s personal favorites.

Regulars have repeatedly called Sarita “a gem in Lakewood,” praising the diverse, thoughtfully crafted menu and the fact that “it is obvious that the chef has put a lot of thought into the ingredients.”

What truly sets Sarita apart in the Lakewood dining scene is Romano’s commitment to lighter dishes — think natural reductions, plenty of vinaigrettes, and bold flavors that don’t rely on heavy cream or butter.

It’s the kind of New American cuisine that feels indulgent without the guilt, and it’s a refreshing departure from the ordinary.

Ranked among the top restaurants in Lakewood, Sarita has earned its reputation not through gimmicks, but through consistency, craft, and genuine heart — and Cleveland’s West Side is all the better for it. 🌟

Food Highlights

• Penne alla Vodka: Gulf shrimp, roasted shallots, spinach, rosemary, and sun-dried tomato-vodka cream — one of Sarita’s most popular dishes.

• BBQ Braised Short Ribs: Plated over cheddar grits with roasted corn, arugula, tomatoes, and cotija cheese.

• Corn Encrusted Crab Cakes: Paired with roasted corn-bacon risotto, grilled asparagus, red pepper aioli, and lemon-garlic aioli. 🦀

• Hot Chicken: A fan-favorite that diners keep coming back for, this dish showcases Chef Romano’s talent for taking familiar comfort food and making it something extraordinary. 🔥

• Pineapple-Soy Glazed Verlasso Salmon: Served with cilantro rice, Thai chili-glazed haricot verts, and mango salsa. 🐟

• Chorizo & Manchego Stuffed Banana Peppers: Resting over a tomato-roasted corn ragout — a bold, punchy appetizer.

Sarita’s vibe is warm, sophisticated, and effortlessly welcoming — the kind of place that works equally well for a date night, a celebration dinner, or a casual gathering with friends.

The interior is modern and chic, with an aesthetic that reviewers describe as “a definite improvement” over the previous tenant, blending clean design with an intimate, neighborhood-restaurant feel.

Whether you slide into a cozy table inside or grab a spot on the patio in warmer months, Sarita delivers the kind of relaxed, joyful atmosphere that Chef Romano always envisioned. 🍷