Ohio City’s open‑fire restaurant ROSY has been named one of the New York Times’ 50 favorite U.S. restaurants for 2026, making it the only entry from the Buckeye State. The honor comes just weeks after the restaurant opened its doors in February, and it underscores the vibrant food culture emerging in Cleveland’s historic neighborhood.
Local chefs gain national recognition
ROSY is the brainchild of chef Vinnie Cimino and his business partner Andrew Watts. The duo previously opened Cordelia in downtown Cleveland in July 2022. Cimino, an Akron native who still calls the city home, said the New York Times accolade is “nothing short of incredible.” He added that the recognition validates the hard work his team puts in every day and affirms their mission to “celebrate today” through food.
Menu inspired by heritage and local farms
New York Times reporter Brett Anderson praised ROSY’s menu, noting dishes such as the “luscious ajvar red pepper sauce” and “juicy, house‑made cotechino sausage.” Anderson highlighted that the kitchen draws inspiration from the Istrian Peninsula in the Adriatic, a region that reflects the ancestral roots of many Ohio families.
ROSY’s ever‑changing menu is shaped by the daily deliveries from local and regional producers. One of the restaurant’s regular suppliers, Kentucky Gardens, is located just a block away. “Every Saturday at the end of their market, they just drop off whatever’s left over to the back door of ROSY,” Cimino explained. “One day it’s 17 pounds of tomatoes and two bunches of Swiss chard. Another day it’s eight peppers, some tomatoes and herbs.” This close relationship with small producers allows ROSY to support local agriculture while offering diners fresh, seasonal fare.
Casual atmosphere encourages walk‑ins
While ROSY accepts reservations, the majority of its guests are walk‑ins, reflecting the restaurant’s relaxed, “not‑too‑precious” vibe. The team hopes the New York Times spotlight will bring more visitors, but they stress that the experience remains accessible to everyone. “Walk in. That’s the whole point,” Cimino said. “Make us a part of your night. Come and experience ROSY. You’re going to get fed and have fun.”
What the list means for Ohio’s dining scene
The New York Times launched its annual restaurant list in October 2021, a time when the industry was emerging from pandemic‑related closures. Since then, only two other Ohio establishments have appeared: Columbus’ now‑closed Chapman’s Eat Market (2021) and Cincinnati’s Wildweed (2025). ROSY’s inclusion signals a growing national appetite for Midwestern cuisine and highlights the region’s capacity to produce world‑class dining experiences.
For Ohio City residents, the news is a point of pride and a boost to the local economy. The restaurant’s success is expected to draw additional foot traffic to nearby businesses, further strengthening the neighborhood’s commercial corridor.
Looking ahead
ROSY will remain open Thursday through Sunday, the first days of operation since the list’s release. Cimino anticipates a busier week but urges patrons not to let the buzz deter them from visiting. “Come and see what the fuss is about,” he said. “You know you’re gonna get fed. You’re gonna have fun. It’s just such a great time.”
Original reporting: Signal Cleveland — read the source article.
