CLE Eats: Mason's Creamery

If I had to eat just one thing for the rest of my life, it would be ice cream. I LUUUURRRVE ice cream, and we are so lucky to have so many amazing, local choices here in Cleveland. One of my favorite ice cream shops is Mason's Creamery, located in Ohio City at 44th and Bridge.

My obsession with Mason's Creamery is so great, that I've actually become friends with the owners Jesse and Helen. I'm particularly obsessed with their vegan churros that they make fresh, and basically to order. Hot churros, cold ice cream… seriously, is there anything better? Actually, there is. They also have a churro ice cream sandwich where you pick the ice cream in the middle. IT IS HEAVEN. TRUST ME ON THIS.

Jesse makes all the ice cream in-house in small batches. The flavors change frequently, and there's always an excellent mix of regular ice-cream and vegan options. Some of my favorite flavors include the mexican chocolate, olive oil (yes. olive oil) and buttered popcorn. The olive oil and buttered popcorn come served with a sprinkle of smoked salt--- absolutely amazing. 

So, if you like cool, creamy, delicious treats, hurry over to Mason's Creamery. Check their website for hours-- they are not open on Sunday until the summer. They can also be found at the Cleveland Flea, although without churros, and with a more limited menu (obviously). 

And like the mural on the side of their store, make sure to go over all the time! You will probably see me there!! 

CLE Shops: R/S

A couple of weeks ago, Clair and I stopped in at R/S Cleveland for some retail therapy and to see lovely Jennie! To be honest, it had been a few months since I stopped over, and seeing all the fun and adorable merchandise made me remember how much I LOVE this boutique.

There was so much great stuff on display-- from the adorable puppy centric gifts (for the new fur-parent) or artisan bitters (for the beverage aficionado), and charming hostess gifts (for all the spring parties), R/S has a little something for everyone. And, if you're looking to fill adult easter baskets, this is a perfect local boutique to turn to!

I picked up an adorable tunic/beach cover up and a ridiculously cute tea steeper in the shape of an axe!! I haven't taken any pictures of my purchases yet, although I'm sure they will make an appearance on Instagram (@cleshopaholic) soon enough!

R/S is located on West 25th in Ohio City, just south of Lorain Rd. Check their website for hours of operation! 

CLE Eats: The Grocery Ohio City

This past weekend, Nick and I stopped in at The Grocery in Ohio City to grab some lunch. It was my first time in this relatively new grocery store, and I was instantly charmed! The space is small-- no bigger than a bodega or small coffee shop, and has a very limited selection of items, but I would describe the selection as small but mighty--- very very well curated. From Inca Tea, Fruit Vibe Juice, Red Lotus Food, and Pope's Kitchen -- a selection of artisan products, all made right here in Cleveland. There's also a small produce section- the day we went, they had garlic, red peppers, tomatoes, and avocados, among other things. You can also buy certain items in bulk (by the mason jar): quinoa, barley, popcorn, etc. Buying in bulk is a much better deal than buying the same items packaged.

In addition to packaged and fresh foods, The Grocery also offers a selection of sandwiches-- high quality meat & cheese on equally high quality bread. Really, the basics of any good sandwich.

Nick and I each picked a sandwich and juice for lunch -- our meal was absolutely delicious. Overall, an excellent visit-- I know I will be visiting again soon!!

An Hour In... Ohio City

This past weekend, N and I had an our to kill, and so we decided to spend it in a part of Ohio City that I really haven't taken the time to explore yet. If you haven't checked it out yet, West 29th between Church and Detroit is an absolutely charming little party of Ohio City. 

Our first stop was Urban Orchid, a delightful floral boutique. To be honest, this is not the first time I've been here, but what I love most about this boutique is that you can give them a budget and an occasion, and they will create an absolutely stunning one-of-a-kind boutique that is GUARANTEED to put a smile on the recipient's face! AND, I always learn something new there, like...

Ornamental Kale-- I didn't know that was a thing!

Beautiful pink roses!

In addition to flowers, they also carry small gift items like vases and jewelry, and of course, adorable Cleveland themed merchandise!

We then walked around the corner to Rising Star Coffee Roasters, but not before I stopped to take a picture of this camper...

For someone who really doesn't care for camping, I am REALLY enamored with campers! I blame Charity.

2 Vietnamese iced coffee to go, please!!! 

I love this bench at Rising Star

A few steps across the streets, and we were at Cleveland Museum of Art's newest outpost, Transformer Station! Incidentally, Transformer Station is hosting Ohio City Stages every Wednesday in July, which is an awesome street fest with live performances! 

I absolutely LUUURVEE the industrial details in the space! There are usually 4 different exhibits each year, and like the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Transformer Station uses technology to help guide patrons through the exhibits (hint: take a mobile device with you!)

Another quick stop to check out the newest pet store: Kutya Rev.

Seriously, how adorable is this?!

I am also really excited that Harness Cycle will be opening at the corner later this year!! I can totally picture myself sweating it out and then heading over across the street to get some post-workout 

coffee!!! 

So, if you haven't explored this little part of Ohio City before, I strongly encourage you to do so! It is a really lovely way to spend a few hours!