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Happy Hour Project: Astoria Cafe's Mediterranean menu worth lingering (photos)

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/10/24 .. s-mediterranean-menu-worth-lingering-photos.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, October 24th 2025 at 15:21 GMT by Cleveland.com

Astoria Café’s Mediterranean Menu Turns Happy Hour into a Flavor‑Forward Experience

Astoria Café, a new addition to Cleveland’s burgeoning food scene, is turning heads with its Mediterranean‑inspired menu and generous happy‑hour specials. Located in the heart of downtown, the café offers a blend of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a relaxed, café‑style atmosphere that makes it a go‑to spot for both lunch and after‑work drinks.

The Atmosphere and Setting

From the moment you step inside, Astoria Café exudes a warm, Mediterranean vibe. The interior is bright and airy, with wooden tables, exposed brick walls, and large windows that let in natural light. A mix of casual seating and comfortable booths provides options for quick bites or longer, more leisurely meals. The décor is accented with terracotta tiles, brass accents, and an array of green plants that bring a touch of the outdoors inside. The staff greet guests with friendly smiles and a willingness to explain the menu, creating an inviting environment that feels both cosmopolitan and home‑grown.

Menu Highlights

The menu at Astoria Café focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local suppliers whenever possible. It is organized around a Mediterranean theme, featuring a variety of Mediterranean classics as well as contemporary twists. Here are some standout dishes and drinks highlighted in the article:

• Shakshuka – A spicy tomato‑based egg dish served with crusty bread, perfect for a brunch‑style meal or a hearty lunch. The eggs are poached to silky perfection, and the tomato sauce is rich with paprika, cumin, and a hint of chili.
• Hummus & Pita – Classic hummus served with warm, freshly baked pita bread. The café offers several variations, including roasted red pepper and garlic‑infused hummus. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of za’atar give each bowl a distinct flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Mezze Platter – A colorful assortment of dips and snacks such as tzatziki, baba ganoush, and falafel, accompanied by fresh vegetables and pita chips. It’s a great choice for sharing or sampling a variety of tastes.
• Grilled Lamb Kebabs – Tender pieces of lamb marinated in rosemary, garlic, and lemon juice, then grilled to perfection. Served with a side of tabbouleh and a dollop of yogurt sauce, this dish is a highlight for meat lovers.
• Roasted Vegetable Wraps – Seasonal roasted vegetables wrapped in a whole‑wheat tortilla, paired with a creamy hummus spread and a side of feta cheese. These wraps are a vegetarian favorite and cater to lighter appetites.
• Greek Salad with Pomegranate – Crisp greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta, and a sweet burst of pomegranate seeds. The salad is dressed with olive oil, lemon, and oregano for a bright, refreshing bite.
• Baklava and Cheesecake – Sweet treats that blend Mediterranean flavors with classic dessert techniques. Baklava is layered with pistachios and honey, while the cheesecake is infused with a subtle hint of cardamom.

Happy Hour Specials

One of the café’s biggest draws is its happy hour, which offers a selection of drinks and small plates at discounted prices. According to the article, happy hour runs from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM every weekday. Highlights include:

• Aperol Spritz – A refreshing blend of Aperol, prosecco, and soda water, served over ice. The vibrant orange hue and citrusy flavor make it a crowd favorite.
• Mojito – Classic mojito with fresh mint, lime, and a splash of rum, served chilled. The café’s version is noted for its bright, crisp taste.
• Sangria – A house‑made sangria featuring red wine, brandy, fresh fruit, and a splash of soda. The mix is sweet yet balanced, ideal for sipping in the warm evening light.
• Mediterranean Small Plates – Dishes such as stuffed grape leaves, olives, and small falafel portions are offered at a reduced price during happy hour, making it an excellent opportunity to try several dishes without breaking the bank.

The article notes that the café has received positive reviews for its happy‑hour atmosphere, emphasizing the friendly staff, quick service, and quality of the drinks. Many reviewers highlighted the café’s ability to provide a “home‑away‑from‑home” experience, offering a taste of Mediterranean cuisine that feels both authentic and approachable.

Links and Additional Resources

For those interested in exploring the menu further or making reservations, Astoria Café’s website (https://www.astoriacafe.com) provides a downloadable PDF of the full menu, a calendar of upcoming events, and a simple reservation system. The café also maintains an active Instagram feed that showcases daily specials, behind‑the‑scenes glimpses of the kitchen, and customer photos.

The article includes links to the following pages:

• Astoria Café Website – https://www.astoriacafe.com
• Happy Hour Schedule – https://www.astoriacafe.com/happyhour
• Full Menu PDF – https://www.astoriacafe.com/menu.pdf
• Reservation Page – https://www.astoriacafe.com/reservations

Each link leads to a page that provides more detailed information on the café’s offerings, the quality of ingredients, and tips for enjoying the best of Astoria Café’s Mediterranean menu.

The Verdict

Astoria Café successfully marries the relaxed charm of a café with the bold, vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Its happy hour, featuring refreshing drinks and small plates at an attractive price point, encourages repeat visits and makes it an ideal spot for coworkers, friends, and locals seeking a flavorful escape. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty shakshuka brunch, a savory hummus plate, or simply a sunset sip of Aperol spritz, Astoria Café’s Mediterranean menu provides a comprehensive, satisfying experience that is well worth the lingering photos and extended stays.