Tremont's La Cave Du Vin, Lil Ronnie's team up for pizza and wine pairing event

Published in Food and Wine on Monday, July 28th 2025 at 10:10 GMT by Cleveland.com
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The August 14 event at La Cave du Vin will feature Modales organic wines from Fennville and pizza from neighborhood favorite Lil Ronnie's for $25 per person.

Tremont's La Cave du Vin and Lil Ronnie's Join Forces for an Unforgettable Pizza and Wine Pairing Extravaganza

In the heart of Cleveland's vibrant Tremont neighborhood, two beloved local establishments are coming together to create a culinary experience that's sure to delight foodies and wine enthusiasts alike. La Cave du Vin, the cozy wine bar known for its extensive selection of global vintages and intimate atmosphere, is teaming up with Lil Ronnie's, the neighborhood's go-to spot for artisanal pizzas with a creative twist. The result? A special pizza and wine pairing event scheduled for July 15, 2025, promising an evening of perfectly matched flavors, lively conversation, and a celebration of Tremont's dynamic food scene.

This collaboration marks a fresh chapter in Tremont's ongoing evolution as a hub for innovative dining experiences. La Cave du Vin, which translates to "The Wine Cellar" in French, has been a staple in the area since its opening in 2004. Tucked away in a historic building on Professor Avenue, the bar exudes a rustic charm with its exposed brick walls, dim lighting, and shelves lined with bottles from around the world. Patrons often describe it as a hidden gem where one can escape the hustle of city life and dive into a world of oenophilic discovery. Owner and sommelier Elena Rossi, who took over the reins in 2018, has built a reputation for curating thoughtful wine lists that cater to both novices and connoisseurs. "We believe wine is about storytelling," Rossi shared in a recent interview. "Each bottle has a history, a terroir, and a personality that deserves to be paired with food that enhances its narrative."

Enter Lil Ronnie's, the pizza parlor that's been turning heads since it opened its doors in 2020. Named after founder Ronnie "Lil Ronnie" Thompson, a Cleveland native with a passion for Neapolitan-style pies infused with local ingredients, the spot has quickly become synonymous with bold, inventive toppings and a commitment to sustainability. From their signature margherita with heirloom tomatoes sourced from nearby urban farms to experimental creations like the "Tremont Truffle" featuring black truffle oil, prosciutto, and arugula, Lil Ronnie's pizzas are crafted in a wood-fired oven that imparts a smoky char and perfect crispiness. Thompson, a former chef at several high-end Cleveland restaurants, emphasizes quality over quantity. "Pizza isn't just comfort food; it's an art form," he explained. "We use dough fermented for 48 hours and toppings that reflect the seasons and our community's spirit."

The upcoming event, dubbed "Slices & Sips: A Tremont Pairing Affair," is set to take place at La Cave du Vin's intimate venue, with Lil Ronnie's pizzas being prepared on-site in a pop-up kitchen setup. Attendees can expect a multi-course tasting menu where each pizza slice is meticulously paired with a complementary wine. The evening kicks off at 7 p.m. with a welcome reception featuring light appetizers and a sparkling wine toast—perhaps a crisp Prosecco to cleanse the palate and set a festive tone.

The first course might feature Lil Ronnie's classic pepperoni pizza, with its tangy tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and spicy cured meat, paired with a robust Italian Chianti. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat, creating a harmonious balance that highlights the pizza's savory depth. Rossi describes this pairing as "a nod to tradition with a modern edge," explaining how the Sangiovese grapes in Chianti bring out subtle herbal notes in the pepperoni.

Moving on, guests could savor a vegetarian option like the "Garden Delight" pizza, topped with roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and a balsamic glaze. This would be matched with a light-bodied Pinot Grigio from Italy's Friuli region, whose citrusy brightness complements the earthy veggies without overpowering them. Thompson notes that this pairing is ideal for summer, evoking the freshness of a Mediterranean garden.

For those seeking adventure, the event includes a wildcard course: Lil Ronnie's "Spicy Fusion" pizza, blending chorizo, jalapeños, and cilantro for a Mexican-inspired kick. Paired with a bold Argentine Malbec, the wine's dark fruit flavors and tannins tame the heat while amplifying the smoky undertones. "It's all about contrast and surprise," Rossi enthuses. "The Malbec's structure stands up to the spice, turning what could be overwhelming into something exhilarating."

Dessert isn't forgotten either. A sweet pizza variation, perhaps drizzled with Nutella, fresh berries, and powdered sugar, could be paired with a dessert wine like a Portuguese Port or a late-harvest Riesling. The sweetness of the wine mirrors the pizza's indulgence, providing a satisfying close to the meal.

Beyond the food and drink, the event fosters a sense of community. Limited to 50 guests to maintain an intimate vibe, tickets are priced at $75 per person, including all pairings, tax, and gratuity. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made via La Cave du Vin's website or by calling the bar directly. Organizers have planned for dietary accommodations, with gluten-free and vegan options available upon request, ensuring inclusivity for all attendees.

This isn't the first time Tremont has seen such creative collaborations. The neighborhood, once an industrial enclave, has transformed into a culinary destination with spots like The South Side and Edison's Pub drawing crowds. Events like this pizza and wine pairing build on that legacy, blending old-world charm with contemporary flair. Rossi and Thompson both express excitement about the potential for future partnerships. "Tremont is all about connection," Thompson says. "Pairing our pizzas with Elena's wines is like bringing two families together for a feast."

For wine lovers, the event offers an educational component. Rossi plans to lead brief talks between courses, demystifying wine selection and encouraging guests to explore beyond their comfort zones. "Many people think wine pairing is elitist, but it's really about experimentation," she says. Thompson echoes this, adding that pizza's versatility makes it an ideal canvas for such explorations.

The collaboration also highlights sustainable practices. Lil Ronnie's sources ingredients locally, reducing carbon footprints, while La Cave du Vin focuses on organic and biodynamic wines. This eco-conscious approach resonates with Tremont's progressive ethos, where community gardens and green initiatives abound.

As Cleveland's food scene continues to evolve, events like this underscore the city's appeal as a destination for gastronomic adventures. Whether you're a local looking for a mid-week treat or a visitor exploring Tremont's eclectic streets, "Slices & Sips" promises to be more than just a meal—it's an immersion into the flavors that define this neighborhood.

In a city renowned for its rock 'n' roll hall of fame and sports fervor, it's refreshing to see culinary creativity take center stage. Rossi and Thompson's partnership exemplifies how small businesses can innovate and thrive together, creating memorable experiences that linger long after the last sip and bite. If past events are any indication, tickets will sell out quickly, so mark your calendars for July 15, 2025, and prepare your taste buds for a Tremont treasure.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy La Cave du Vin's regular happy hour specials or explore nearby galleries and shops. With live music potentially on the agenda—rumors suggest a local jazz trio—the evening could extend into a full night out. This event not only celebrates pizza and wine but also the spirit of collaboration that makes Tremont special.

For those unable to attend, Rossi hints at recording parts of the event for social media, allowing virtual participation. But nothing beats the in-person magic: the aroma of fresh-baked dough mingling with the bouquet of fine wines, the chatter of excited diners, and the satisfaction of discovering a perfect pairing.

In essence, this pizza and wine event is a testament to the power of fusion—merging the casual comfort of pizza with the sophistication of wine in a setting that's quintessentially Cleveland. It's an invitation to slow down, savor, and connect, right in the beating heart of Tremont. Don't miss out on what could become a new annual tradition.

Read the Full Cleveland.com Article at:
[ https://www.cleveland.com/entertainment/2025/07/tremonts-la-cave-du-vin-lil-ronnies-team-up-for-pizza-and-wine-pairing-event.html ]

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Tremont's La Cave Du Vin, Lil Ronnie's team up for pizza and wine pairing event

Tremont's La Cave du Vin and Lil Ronnie's Join Forces for an Unforgettable Pizza and Wine Pairing Extravaganza