Lakewood's new Salt

A friend and I headed to the new Lakewood restaurant, Salt + a restaurant, last week. I was really looking forward to checking out chef Jill Vedaa's (formally of Rockefeller's) spot. It's located in the old Pug Mahones. I had never been, so I have nothing to compare it to, but the interior of Salt is thoughtful, industrial yet warm, and full of visual details.

There is a great little bar/lounge area just inside the door, and then diners in the main dining room have a view of the small open kitchen.

The menu consists of three categories: Vegetables, Fish, and Meat. All of the dishes in each category are small plates, and intended for sharing.

And sharing is exactly what we did. Two from each category!

Marinated Manchego with fennel, citrus, herbs and fresh bread ($9)

Dates with Maytag blue and bacon jam ($8)

Braised Octopus with olives and oranges ($9)

Shrimp with pickled garlic, black garlic hominy, and roasted garlic mojo ($13 for 6)

Lamb Carpaccio with charmoula yogurt and fried onion ($12)

Short Ribs with fresh kimchi and smoked sweet potato ($11)

Not pictured...the two desserts we split. A fried angel food cake with lemon curd and fresh berries, and a butterscotch pot de creme. Both great, and a highlight of the meal.

Overall, there wasn't a dud on the table, but the Shrimp really stood out to me. I also really liked the kimchi and the smoked squash with the short rib.

Service was attentive, knowledgeable, and very friendly, and also allowed us to take our time and gab and graze for three hours. We had a lot of catching up to do. I had first ordered a craft cocktail, the Amelia, and it was uber-strong. I had to switch to a glass of wine to ease in. I discovered a new-to-me wine that I liked...in a can! Underwood Rose from Oregon ($6 for the can, which is about 2 generous glasses of wine). Now I'll have to go hunt it down.

I really enjoyed my experience there. Go check it out for yourself. Currently, they only accept reservations for parties of 6 or more. Beware that they are closed on Tuesdays, but you can also try their Sunday brunch.

Salt + a restaurant
17625 Detroit Avenue
Lakewood, OH 44107
216-221-4866