Pubs/Wine & Martini Bars in Downtown

A classic Cleveland "old-man" bar with a totally modern vibe, this well-run tavern offers a full bar and plenty of tasty noshes, ranging from roasted red pepper hummus to a humongous burger. Nightly happy hours help make this a popular destination.

Brothers has grown away from its funky blues-club vibe of days past. Now it features three rooms: a restaurant/tavern, a wine bar that specializes in acoustic sounds, and the roomy Music Hall, which hosts rock, blues, jazz, and reggae acts.

The main attraction at this downtown bar and grill is the 40 beers on tap — always fresh, always rotating. To go with, pick the fresh, hand-formed burgers on a pretzel bun. The casual atmosphere includes plenty of TVs tuned to sports, making it just right for a Gateway-district beer break.

Cobblestone roads lead to the best beers around. The tasting room provides a bird's-eye view of the shiny steel tanks and antique bar that Eliot Ness once bellied up to. The cellar bar is less bright, but even more atmospheric.

This massive Ohio City brewpub seats well over 300 guests in multiple dining rooms, at various bars, and in a gem-like beer garden. Upscale pub grub joins an ever-evolving list of world-class suds, cooked up by an award-winning brewmaster. Don't miss the house chips, meat boards, Cubano, and ridiculously delicious southern fried chicken.

Tucked into a small space just south of Public Square, Ontario Street Café is hidden in plain sight. This classic Cleveland bar has been around for longer than most regulars can recall — but then again, most have been drinking since noon. Despite the well-worn interior — and less-than-welcoming exterior — this is no dive bar. Bartenders wear white shirts and neckties. Service is prompt and professional. And the fresh-sliced deli sandwiches are out of this world. Drinks are dirt cheap but you need cash to enjoy them.