Akron Life January 2022

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

AKRON LIFE CELEBRATES 20 YEARS!

VOLUME 20 | ISSUE 1 | JANUARY 2022

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photo by Stefanie Manley

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JANUARY 2022 | VOLUME 20 | ISSUE 1

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On The Cover | 20 330 Flavor Awards | photo by Stefanie Manley

[ FEATURE ]

20 330 FLAVOR AWARDS

Discover five best new restaurants to try now. Plus, find over 225 of your top dining picks.

shrimp Divine photo by Stefanie Manley

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31 UNCORKED Folie à Deux

12 AGENDA [ the essential social digest ]

32 UNTAPPED Sublimely Self-Righteous Black IPA

[ DEPARTMENTS ]

07 UPFRONT Happy Birthday

11 FROM THE PUBLISHER Mr. Brightside

Special Sections

36 BRIDAL Dream weddings come to life. 48 EDUCATION Student athletes excel in class and on the field.

08 MAIL BONDING

12 AGENDA [ the essential social digest ] 13 Entertainment listings + Calendar of events 30 GOOD EATS [ notable food + drink ] 30 Restaurant listings 31 Uncorked: Folie à Deux 32 Untapped: Sublimely Self-Righteous Black IPA

09 RADAR [ seen + heard ]

10 20 YEARS OF AKRON LIFE

Akron Life & Leisure 's first Publisher's Page

59 PARTING SHOT Cuyahoga Falls championship team

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U P F R O N T

Managing Editor | Kelly Petryszyn | kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com

Happy Birthday

This year celebrates the start of Akron Life and the rebirth of Akron.

This past August, I wrote an article about the reopening of the Civic’s renovated arcade and lobby and the addition of the new Knight Stage and teased Lock 3’s massive makeover. All are reestablishing South Main Street as an anchor of downtown. From the beginning, dining has been a large part of Akron Life , and this issue pres ents our fourth annual 330 Flavor Awards, with over 225 winners voted on by readers. This year we’re highlighting new restau rants. I find it so encouraging that despite pandemic struggles with staffing and supply shortages, locals are still opening restaurants and customers are coming out. The Flavor Awards are a newer addition to Akron Life , but it returns to Don’s mission of celebrating the best that Greater Akron has to offer. It amazes me that the excitement for The 330 Don wrote about experiencing at an Akron Aeros game is as strong as ever. And nearly two decades later, I found myself in the same ballpark among another genera tion of passionate locals, and I’m editing the magazine that he started to give the Greater Akron region its own publication to record and share stories about the residents, businesses and things that make it vibrant. Thank you for reading Akron Life and for your continued support. I’m excited to embark on this anniversary year with you as we salute where we came from, our burgeoning renaissance and the bright future ahead.

photo provided by the city of Akron

As Akron Life approaches its 20th anniver sary in November 2022, we are celebrat ing all year by sharing content from our archives and updates on the rich life The 330 offers. Find founder Don Baker Jr.’s first column on pg. 10. In it, he writes about downtown, Canal Park and the redesigned Akron Civic Theatre of the “new Akron,” reborn after the desolate days of rubber factories leaving Akron in the ’70s and ’80s. It’s not lost on me that two decades later, we are experiencing another revival with even more on the horizon, as phase II of the Main Street Corridor project is underway and new businesses and apart ments continue to emerge. It’s a great coin cidence that Akron Life ’s first year covered the people, places and events that shaped the new Akron, and one of those was the restoration of the Civic’s main auditorium.

I finally experienced the thrill of the reopened Main Street in downtown Akron this past summer when it warmed up and vaccines made it safer to be in crowds at Akron RubberDucks games. At Akron Life , we work with the Downtown Akron Partnership to produce the annual downtown Akron guide and had been writing about the multiphase project for years, so the anticipation had built. When my family and I attended one late July game, Main Street was so packed that it was tough to find parking and the restaurants outside of Canal Park were all full. The crowds brought an

exhilarating energy — the renaissance had begun.

[ Managing Editor Kelly Petryszyn is an adventure seeker, forever a dreamer and an avid supporter of #TeamFiona. ]

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M A I L B O N D I N G

Tell us what's on your mind.

FOUNDER Don Baker Jr . [ 1940-2018 ]

VOLUME 19 | ISSUE 12

DECEMBER 2021

FAMILY FINDING A new Portage County group home helps foster youth feel at home

Comments? Got something to say about an article you read in Akron Life ? Or maybe you want to tel l us about something great happening in the area. Send comments and suggestions to: Akron Life , 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313, and please include your name and address.

PUBL I SHER Colin Baker cbaker@bakermediagroup.com CREAT IVE DIRECTOR William L. Teckmyer III wteckmyer@bakermediagroup.com MANAGING EDI TOR Kelly Petryszyn kpet ryszyn@bakermediagroup.com ASS I STANT EDI TOR Alexandra Sobczak asobczak@bakermediagroup.com GRAPHIC DES IGNER Tylar Calhoun tsut ton@bakermediagroup.com

STOW & KENT EXPLORE NEW SPACES & THINGS TO DO IN THE TREE CI TY TOP DOCTORS 2021 ST I LL F IGHT ING DOCTORS & NURSES STAY STRONG IN THE COVID- 19 BATTLE

Or emai l them to editor@bakermediagroup.com. We reserve the right to edit letters for length and clarity.

KELLI CONNELL Program Manager at Group Home photo by Shane Wynn

H A V E A K R O N , W I L L T R A V E L

Get Your Face In Our Magazine

Send us pics of yourself with a copy of Akron Life and end up on this page! Images and descriptions can be sent to editor@bakermediagroup.com.

CONTRIBUT ING WRITERS Brendan Baker Aaron Fowler Mike McKenney CONTRIBUT ING PHOTOGRAPHER Stefanie Manley

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EDI TORIAL INTERNS Marcus Anderson Halena Sepulveda

OR AT T END A V I RTUA L E V ENT , 330TIX OF F ER S BOTH E A S E AND ENT ERTA I NMENT .

JANUARY 2022 | VOLUME 20 | ISSUE 1 ( ISSN No. 74 470 5787 1 ) akronlife is published monthly by

Baker Media Group, LLC, 1653 Merriman Road, Suite 116, Akron, OH 44313. Copyright 2022© by Baker Media Group, LLC, All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or pictorial content in any manner is prohibited without written permission. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by an addressed envelope and sufficient postage. Baker Media Group, LLC and akronlife accept no responsibility for unsolicited material. Subscription rates: Continental U.S., One year —$19.95, Two years —$34.95. Call for Alaska, Hawaii or international rates. Single issues available by calling the circulation department or visiting akronlife.com/store . $3.95 each plus $3.50 shipping & handling. Editorial, adver tising and business offices: (330) 253-0056, fax (330) 253-5868.

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R A D A R

by Marcus Anderson and photo provided by Katie Gross

seen + heard

WAZZUP Those of us who remember the ’90s often find ourselves reminiscing about boy bands, Walkmans and slap bracelets. “The One with All The 90's’’ podcast, ranked in the top 10 percent of popular podcasts globally by Listen Score, takes you back to those fly times with episodes featuring special guests and trivia about TGIF shows, Britney Spears, $1.50 gas prices and more. It’s hosted by Katie Gross, owner of Suburban Lash & Beauty in Macedonia and current Mrs. Northeast Ohio. And if you’re totally into it, head to its website for merchan dise like pencils with sitcom phrases and an “Ugh! As If!” pin from “Clueless.” allthe90s.com

THE REVOLUTION It’s OK to drink in church at the new Belltower Brewing Co. in Kent. Located in a more than 150-year old former church, Belltower Brewing taps house-made German-style brews like kölsch and Marvin’s märzen crafted by head brewer and Market Garden Brewery vet Jennifer Hermann. Nosh on inventive options from beer cheese burgers to mussels steamed in beer as you sip, relax and listen to the historical bell ring. 310 Park Ave., Kent, belltowerbrewing.com

BUILDING SKILLS The new year is the perfect time to tackle home

improvement projects, and it can be rewarding to do them yourself. Access helpful resources through the Community Tool Library, a Well Community Development Corp. pro gram. If it's your first time embarking on home improvement, learn more in some of the Well's home maintenance classes taught by pros. Choose from over 500 tools in the library, including ratchets, drain snakes and drills. Find whatever you need to fix your home and master your space. 647 E. Market St., Akron, thewellakron.com

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2 0 Y E A R S O F A K R O N L I F E

Founder | Don Baker Jr. | 1940-2018 Akron Life & Leisure 's first Publisher's Page November 2002

Making Memories

Publisher's Page

I t kind of snuck up on me. This cultural and architectural renais sance in Akron did not come as a com plete surprise, but it took me awhile to recognize that the Akron in which I

The genesis for this magazine reaches back to 1968 on a business trip with the late Tom Babcox, president of Babcox Publications and one of the biggest Akron boosters I have ever known. He confided in me that he wanted to start a city magazine for Greater Akron, to celebrate all of the won derful things he saw here. At the time, I couldn't see what he saw; I thought his idea was a daydream. If he were alive today, he certainly would be celebrating this wonderful city along with us. Just look at what we have to celebrate: a rich and thriving downtown, Canal Park, the new Akron Civic Theatre, the new library, the art museum, the symphony, the Ohio Ballet, E.J. Thomas Hall, Blossom Music Center, Carousel Theatre, the Highland Theater, Kent State University, The University of Akron, Inventure Place, the John S. Knight Center, the Soap Box Derby, the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Stan Hywet, Hale Farm & Village, Quaker Square and much, much more. But Akron Life & Leisure does not just celebrate Akron proper, but the surrounding communities in Summit, Portage, Medina and northern Stark we see as Greater Akron, a thriving community of almost a million people. Couple this with moderate housing costs and an adequate supply of decent jobs and you've got a community that is a model for the rest of the country. This first issue is just the beginning. Our vision for future issues is to bring you the best that Greater Akron has to offer. From fine dining, theater, live performances, to ele gant homes and how to create a way of life; we will also bring you the best in writing, photography and ideas. We invite you to join us in this celebration of the place in which we live and work and play. Let us know what you think of your new magazine, and by all means subscribe for yourself and your friends. Your ideas are important to us, and your support is essential.

grew up wasn't the same city I live in today. I think it was the opening game at Canal Park when Jaret Wright pitched the first game for the Aeros in freezing April weather. The place was absolutely packed; there were no seats left and standing room was at a premium. I looked around and real ized that well over 10,000 people had come to downtown in winter-like conditions to not only watch a baseball game, but to celebrate the new Akron. There was a time in the mid-70s when I could not have con ceived of Greater Akron as anything more than the typical, Midwestern, rust-belt city fighting to stay alive. ln 1976, this town was paralyzed by a massive United Rubber Workers strike that almost put all of the shopkeepers and merchants out of business. Then, one by one, the rubber companies left town to set up shop in greener, non-union pastures. When the rubber companies departed so did the movers and shak ers that made things happen in Akron, and it appeared that the city and surrounding region would die a cruel and ignominious death. The rubber barons who founded this city had created a rich cultural environment in which to live. They funded the arts and charities and entertainment venues that reflected their lifestyle. The Seiberling mansion known as Stan Hywet was a symbol of what this area had once been: a savvy, culturally rich area in which many folks wanted to live. So, there I was, standing in the middle of 10,000-plus freez ing celebrants in downtown Akron, waiting for Jaret Wright to throw the first pitch, when I realized that the Akron in which I have lived and worked all these years, had changed right in front of my eyes. I could no longer smell even the faintest hint of that uniquely Akron aroma of burnt rubber and roasting oats; things had definitely changed.

Don Baker Jr.

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F R O M T H E P U B L I S H E R

Publisher | Colin Baker | cbaker@bakermediagroup.com

Mr. Brightside

I’m kicking off the new year by looking forward.

It’s a new year, and with that comes all the possibilities. I guess you could call me an optimist. I always find something to look forward to. I am able to wake up and feel motivated by something in the future. The magazine business is all about the future. We work on and write about subjects that are months away, and some times that can create challenges, like with photography. It’s hard to do a spring issue when current photos are snowy, so we have had to plan some photo shoots a year in advance or use a file photo. I was recently listening to a psychologist speak about the positive emotions you feel when moving toward a goal, and he said, The more valuable the goal is to you, the more positive the emotion is that you feel . I find that to be true for myself and the way I think about Akron Life . Those first few years of the magazine, I’m sure a business consultant could have come in, looked at our operation and said, Y ou might want to just shut the doors , but we never did. We just kept publishing. So, what is it I look forward to? On the personal side, I am joining the world of Peloton exercise bikes. Since I’m writing this column in 2021, I don’t have the bike yet. Maybe if you never hear about it in another one, it’s because I only rode it a few times and it’s now being used as a coat rack. But I am so looking forward to getting it. Since I have a toddler running around the house, a gym has been low on the priority list, and I am going to try a home gym, or at least a home bike.

My other go-to thing I look forward to is improving my golf game. Now, this doesn’t always happen. Often, I have good games followed by games that I walk away from saying, I am done with this sport and It’s a complete waste of time. But the laws of the universe will give me just one shot, usually on the last few holes, and I think, Wow, that

was an awesome hit or putt. I will play one more time . Then the cycle continues. With the magazine, it’s new story ideas and expanding our digital presence for our 20th anniversary year. We are also looking at adding a podcast this year. Stay tuned.

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JANUARY 2022 | VOLUME 20 | ISSUE 1

Agenda the essential social digest

Through 1/26 “Susan Byrnes: The Viscosity Series” View this Ohio artist’s inventive exhibit of landscape inspired sculptural drawings, including this piece, “Begonias.” Massillon Museum, Studio M Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org

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SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS on akronlife.com or email jburkhart@bakermediagroup.com.

Akron Symphony Orchestra Theron Brown, an Akron-based jazz musician, and Thomas Moore, director of marketing for the Akron Symphony Orchestra, discuss different jazz-centered topics in their new podcast, “Backstage at the Hi Hat,” available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more. akronsymphony.org Akron Zoo Visit the zoo digitally to enjoy live keeper talks, animal encounters and presentations from local experts. akronzoo.org The Americana Roundup Akron musician Ryan Humbert launched an online radio station, the Americana Roundup, which plays more than 3,000 songs he handpicked. The station plays all day and focuses on rock, country, folk and more. americanaroundup.com ArtsInStark Check Facebook for videos with fun things to do at home including crafts and dance lessons, music performances and book readings. facebook.com/ artsinstark Apollo’s Fire Indulge in music, art and literature with the Music for the Soul video series from the Cleveland Baroque orchestra. The group posts past concert videos, interviews with people like the Grammy Award-winning conductor Jeannette Sorrell and related readings. See shows through a digital portal or in person. apollosfire.org

Blu Jazz Jazz enthusiasts can enjoy their favorite tunes through livestreams on Blu Jazz’s Facebook page and support local artists. facebook.com/blujazzakron Canton Symphony Orchestra The orchestra is offering fun ways to connect virtually. Watch mini concerts and learn about the issue of diversity in classical music during the “Orchestrating Change” podcast. cantonsymphony.org Cleveland Orchestra Connect with the orchestra via the streaming platform Adella to access new performances recorded in Severance Hall through the In Focus series, as well as the “On a Personal Note” podcast that’s about classical music. clevelandorchestra.com Gage House Sessions Grab your favorite drink and enjoy an evening with local musicians via Gage House’s live sessions. Check out previous shows from artists including Madison Cummins and Ben Gage, who both make for evenings of soothing tunes. facebook.com/gagehousesessions Jilly’s Music Room The Akron music venue is hosting select Streaming Fridays on its YouTube channel. Watch the livestreams and visit the online store to order dinner, tip the band, make a donation and buy merchandise. jillysmusicroom.com

NOTE : Dates, events, locations, times and prices are subject to change. Please call ahead.

Remote

Akron Art Museum Explore the museum’s collections online. Kiddos and those wanting to get creative can craft via video lessons. akronartmuseum.org/at-home Akron Civic Theatre The Civic has an assortment of live performances from all over with its Live Virtually portal. Check its Facebook for local musicians’ streams, events, stage shows and other performances. facebook.com/akroncivic Akron Soul Train View video profiles from past, current and future Soul Train artists-in-residence. facebook.com/akronsoultrain Akron-Summit County Public Library Sit kids down for regular storytimes with children’s librarians or various book talks via videos on its Facebook page. Books are available inside or for curbside pickup. facebook.com/akronlibrary

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Magical Theatre Co. The Barberton theater company is offering game nights and educational videos. Children can also enjoy stories read by local theater veterans during Magical Storytime. magicaltheatre.org Nightlight Cinema Purchase tickets to rent movies online through the Akron art house cinema’s virtual screening room— you’ll have access to the films at nightlightcinema.com/ virtual-screening-room. Ohio Shakespeare Festival Check out its venture, Ohio Shakespeare Festival Radio Plays, in which the troupe adapts plays and short stories for livestreaming. facebook.com/ohioshakespeare Radio on the Lake Theatre The Shaker Heights-based organization utilizes modern technology to connect with actors, directors and artists from throughout the country to perform and record radio plays. radioonthelaketheatre.org Rubber City Theatre Dive into the world of online theater with its Shakespeare in the Living Room series in which professional actors perform Shakespearean works using props they found lying around their homes. facebook. com/rubbercitytheatre Standing Rock Cultural Arts Enjoy a podcast of “Arcade Cheezy Town,” a play written and performed by students in the New World Children’s Theatre based in Kent. standingrock.podbean.com

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens The North American Reciprocal Museum Association is offering virtual tours of the first floor of the Manor House at Stan Hywet. Guests can tour the most impressive floor without leaving their homes. stanhywet.org Summit County Historical Society of Akron, OH Learn about historical figures on their birthdays, join virtual book talks, view artifacts and more on its Facebook page. facebook.com/ summitcountyhistoricalsociety Summit Metro Parks Explore many different topics, including animals, plants, different habitats and more, through virtual events. summitmetroparks.org Up Front Art Space This Cuyahoga Falls gallery is sharing photos and videos of artwork for sale to support local creatives. facebook. com/upfrontartspace Virtual Jukebox Dance and sing along to videos made by local artists. You may have heard some of these 330 artists, like Jim Ballard, Shelby Olive and Adrian Labra on 90.7 and 91.3 Summit FM radio waves in the past. Check out the 50-plus videos to enjoy your favorites and discover new sounds. the330.net/virtual-jukebox

Weathervane Playhouse Sign up for virtual workshops and classes for all ages that focus on dancing, acting and more. Also view short films on the theater’s YouTube channel. weathervaneplayhouse.com Events Through 1/9 “Afterimages: Geometric Abstraction and Perception” This Akron Art Museum exhibit showcases art from the ’60s and ’70s with perceptual effects based on the science of eyesight, from pulsating patterns to afterimages that linger after the viewer looks at something else. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Wednesday, Friday Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. akronartmuseum.org Through 1/9 “Artwork by Members of the Boys and Girls Club of Massillon” Visit the Massillon Museum to see some colorful, uplifting pieces made by youth. Massillon Museum, Fred F. Silk Community Room Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org Through 1/16 “Stark County Artists Exhibition” This annual juried show highlights the work of local artists who live or work in Stark County. Massillon Museum, Aultman Health Foundation Gallery, 121 Lincoln Way E, Massillon. Tuesday-Saturday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 2-5 p.m. Free. massillonmuseum.org

Wandering Aesthetics Theatre Go on this Akron troupe’s Facebook page for

performance videos frommembers and fans — it could be play readings, poetry, comedy, puppets, dance or whatever else artists submit. facebook.com/watheatre

2022 is already a lucky year for high school seniors. They’re eligible for an ENTIRE SEMESTER of FREE COLLEGE TUITION next fall at Stark State College. Any major. And there’s more: Even after their free start at Stark State , they’ll get the lowest tuition in the area . Of course, Stark State is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, important for any family, whether their student takes their SSC degree straight to a good-paying, in-demand job or transfers for a baccalaureate degree at SSC’s partner institutions such as The University of Akron, Kent State University, The Ohio State University and Northeast Ohio Medical University. Unlimited credit hours. Online or on campus.

Families can learn more about why Stark State is the place to start at February’s senior night .

Get the details:

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Through 2/21 WinterBlast at Lock 3 The city of Akron provides winter activities for adults and children, like Ohio’s largest outdoor seasonal ice skating rink, polar cub kids’ rink, reindeer run slide, polar indoor mini golf, the magical train and more. Lock 3, 200 S. Main St., Akron. lock3live.com Through 2/27 “Continuum: Historical Resonances in Contemporary Art” Five special pairings of past and present works encourage surprise and delight. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Wednesday, Friday-Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. akronartmuseum.org Through 2/27 “Forever Chanel/ Coco & Karl” This exhibit at the Kent State University Museum features more than 40 examples of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel and Karl Lagerfeld, such as dresses and suits. Kent State University Museum, Stager and Blum Galleries, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and all on Sundays, otherwise $6 general public. kent.edu/museum

Through 4/3 “Pop Op” See pop and op art from the Canton Museum of Art’s collection and lenders, with featured artists including Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, Roy Lichtenstein and Clevelander Julian Stanczak. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, $8 nonmember adults. cantonart.org Through 4/30 Countryside Winter Farmers’ Market Shop from local farmers, food entrepreneurs and artists at Countryside’s indoor farmers market on select Saturdays. Old Trail School, 2315 Ira Road, Bath. 9 a.m.- noon. countrysidefoodandfarms.org Through 5/15 “The 10,000 Things” Cleveland artist Jordan Wong melds inspiration from Asian art with graphic design, iconographies and his musings on triumph and growth. The exhibit features brightly colored large-scale vinyl printworks both inside the museum and outside in the Bud and Susie Rogers Garden. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Wednesday, Friday-Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. akronartmuseum.org

Through 3/6 “Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross” This comic book artist has produced some of the most iconic images for the Marvel Universe today, including Captain America, Spider-Man, Black Panther and more. See art from his recent book, “Marvelocity,” and learn about Ross through childhood drawings, sketches, head busts and more. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. Tuesday Thursday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Free members, $8 nonmember adults. cantonart.org Through 3/26 Haymaker Farmers’ Market Enjoy the winter season of this year round market by shopping indoors for local food, art, handmade products and more. United Methodist Church of Kent, 1435 E. Main St., Kent. Saturdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. haymakermarket.com Through 3/27 “More is More: Visual Richness in Contemporary Art” Viewers who look closely are rewarded at this Akron Art Museum exhibit of intricate art with rich patterns, ornate surfaces and unexpected details. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. Thursday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Wednesday, Friday-Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m. akronartmuseum.org

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Through 7/17 “What’s in Your Bag?” The Kent State Museum features an exhibit inspired by a purse in the museum’s collection that still had personal items in it. This display imagines what could be in others’ purses. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and all on Sundays, otherwise $6 general public. kent. edu/museum Through 8/7 “Textures: The History and Art of Black Hair” The Kent State University Museum features an exhibit that connects the history, fashion and art of Black hair. Kent State University Museum, 515 Hilltop Drive, Kent. Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-4 p.m. Free, students, staff and all on Sundays, otherwise $6 general public. kent.edu/museum 1/3 Art Camp: Graffiti Kids ages 7 to 14 learn about and practice lettering, design and stencil making associated with graffiti, tagging and image making. Materials are provided by the studio. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron. 8:30 a.m.-noon half day, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. full day. $40-$70. akronartworks.com

1/6 Wellness through Art: Drawing and Doodles Make art from mindless and mindful attention. Explore contour drawing and simple but mindful doodles with pencil and pastels. Take a moment to destress while exploring your creativity with a variety of artistic media. The class begins and ends with brief relaxation or an easy meditation. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron. 6:30-7:45 p.m. $25. akronartworks.com 1/6-1/8 Levit Plays Brahms Second Piano Concerto Igor Levit brings his probing curiosity, extraordinary musicianship and immeasurable empathy to Brahms’s towering Second Piano Concerto performed by the Cleveland Orchestra. Rounding out the concert is a new work by Hans Abrahamsen, whose work “Let Me Tell You” has been called the best classical work of the 21st century. Mandel Concert Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 7:30 p.m. $21-$151. clevelandorchestra.com 1/7 First Friday Family Movie: “Frozen” The Canton Palace Theatre presents a family friendly movie as a part of the Canton First Friday celebration. Say hi to Anna and Elsa entertainers. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 7 p.m. cantonpalacetheatre.org

1/7 Cleveland’s Clearwater Revival: The Sights and Sounds of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty Take a trip back to the late ’60s and early ’70s as Cleveland’s Clearwater Revival immerses its audience in the complete experience of the swamp rock and Americana-roots music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty’s solo career, which spans five decades. Akron Civic Theatre, Knight Stage, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $20. akroncivic.com 1/8 Concert Film Presentation: “Rocketman” combining elements of both a live event and film screening in one night. See the film on Canton’s largest screen while being immersed in the Palace’s theatrical lighting during the concert scenes. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 7:30 p.m. $10. cantonpalacetheatre.org 1/8 Thomas Mulready & Vanity Crash: Bowie@75 - Ziggy Stardust Revisited This show features live original music and Bowie classics alternating with exclusive interviews conducted with members of the Spiders From Mars, Bowie’s hard rocking band during his Ziggy Stardust period. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 N. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $20-$25. jillysmusicroom.com 1/12 Today’s Bride Akron Wedding Show Gather your wedding party, family or fiance and plan your entire wedding under one roof. Shop everything you need to create your dream wedding with over 100 of Northeast Ohio’s best wedding professionals. Take advantage of special discounts, deals, prizes and giveaways. John S. Knight Center, 77 E. Mill St., Akron. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $15-$40. todaysbride.com/ bridal-shows 1/13 Wellness through Art: Clay Bas Relief Learn relief techniques to reveal the images below. Take a moment to destress while exploring your creativity with a variety of artistic media. The class begins and ends with brief relaxation or an easy meditation. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron. 6:30-7:45 p.m. $25. akronartworks.com 1/13 Divergent Sounds Series: Rock Meets the Symphony featuring Hey Monea Discover the new sound of two different musical genres combined into one unique concert series. Hear Canton Symphony Orchestra musicians perform with some of the region’s most popular musicians. Enjoy free admission with a donation of a gently used musical instrument for the Summit’s Music Alive Program. Umstattd Performing Arts Hall, Zimmermann Symphony Center, 2323 17th St. NW, Canton. 7:30 p.m. $20-$45. cantonsymphony.org The Canton Palace Theatre presents a unique concert movie experience,

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1/13 Dr. Sketchy’s Head to Jilly’s Music Room to experience Dr. Sketchy’s Anti-Art School, the world’s premier alternative drawing movement. Artists draw glamorous underground performers in an atmosphere of boozy conviviality. Founded in 2005 in a dive bar in Brooklyn, Dr. Sketchy’s has now spread to over 100 cities around the world. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 N. Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $10. jillysmusicroom.com 1/13-1/15 Welser-Möst Conducts Mozart & Dvořák Franz Welser-Möst leads the Cleveland Orchestra in a concert that opens with a charming work with a sentimental connection: the Linz symphony is named after his hometown. Mozart wrote it when stopping over on a trip from Vienna to Salzburg, both in Austria. Concluding the concert is Dvořák’s Eighth, as exciting and tuneful as his famous New World Symphony. Mandel Concert Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 7:30 p.m. $21-$151. clevelandorchestra.com 1/13-1/23 8x10 TheatreFest Weathervane Playhouse celebrates the art of the short play with its 10th 8x10 TheatreFest. Each play is written with a specific prop selected by the previous season’s audiences. $18-$22. weathervaneplayhouse.com 1/14 Akron Zoo Wine & Paint This event features an animal themed painting led by an instructor. During the intermission, a zoo animal ambassador paints. Tickets include one drink, appetizers and an 11-by-14-inch painting to take home. Additional drinks are available for purchase. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 6-8 p.m. $35-$40. akronzoo.org 1/14 Morrison Hotel This Doors tribute has been thrilling crowds with accurate versions of the Doors hits since 1994. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 N. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $5-$10. jillysmusicroom.com 1/14 The Thor Platter Trio Born and raised in Buffalo, singer-songwriter Thor Platter received a good dose of classic rock as a youth when his sister introduced him to her record collection. Her Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen and Bob Dylan albums influenced Platter while he forged his own songwriting style, built around strong vocals and a great group of musicians backing him. G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St., Peninsula. 8 p.m. $15. peninsulahistory.org 1/14-15, 1/21-22 & 1/28-29 “Rent” This rock opera tells the story of one year in the life of a group of bohemians struggling in modern day East Village, New York. The group deals with love, loss, the AIDS epidemic and life in one truly powerful story. Akron Civic Theatre, Knight Stage, 182 S. Main St., Akron. $20. akroncivic.com 1/14-15, 1/21-22 & 1/28-29 “Hear What’s In The Heart: A Shoemaker’s Tale” This play brings to life all the passion, comedy and drama inherent in a Sicilian American family. Akron Civic Theatre, Knight Stage, 182 S. Main St., Akron. $20. akroncivic.com 1/15 “Baroque Virtuosos” The Akron Symphony Orchestra presents an evening of the world’s best from the Baroque era, including a world premiere of a tuba concerto. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 8 p.m. $15-$60. akronsymphony.org

EJ THOMAS HALL JOSHUA BELL & LARISA MARTINEZ FEBRUARY 8

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Valentine’s date night.

A union of voice and violin Married in 2019, this extraordinary couple tours together for the first time – a can’t-miss event.

tuesdaymusical.org tuesday usical.org

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1/15 Hotel California: The Original Tribute to the Eagles This tribute band has shared the stage with the Doobie Brothers, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Gretchen Wilson and more international artists. They’ve performed in places like Tahiti, Dubai, Japan, India, Bermuda and more. Akron Civic Theatre, Knight Stage, 182 S. Main St., Akron. $20-$30. akroncivic.com. 1/16 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Concert This uplifting concert showcases the music of prominent Black composers, such as Dolores White, Mary D. Watkins, Carlos Simon, Brian Raphael Nabors, William Grant Still and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, as well as music in the African American spiritual tradition. The program concludes with James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson’s beloved hymn “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Mandel Concert Hall, 11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland. 7 p.m. Free. clevelandorchestra.com 1/17 Akron Zoo’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day Guests can enjoy free admission and fun activities provided by the Akron Chapter of NAACP. Online reservations are required. Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. akronzoo.org 1/21 Satisfaction: the International Rolling Stones Show This is the international touring tribute show to one of the world’s greatest rock bands. This Billboard and Pollstar highly rated show is entering its 20th year in production with over 4,000 performances listed to its credit. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 N. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $5-$10. jillysmusicroom.com 1/22 Outback presents Rodney Carrington: “Let Me In!” Rodney Carrington is a multitalented comedian, actor, singer and writer playing sold-out shows around the world as one of the top 10 highest grossing touring comedians for the past two decades. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 7 p.m. $50-$200. cantonpalacetheatre.org 1/22 Highway 61 This Rust Belt-based band features Bob Moughler on harmonica and vocals, Mike Lenz on guitar and vocals and Dylan Roth on drums. Moughler’s quest was to form a band that would incorporate Chicago-style blues and West Coast boogie. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 N. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $5-$10. jillysmusicroom.com 1/23 University of Akron Steel Drum Band Dr. Larry Snider founded the University of Akron Steel Drum Band in 1980. At the time, it was one of only three colleges in the U.S. to have a steel drum ensemble. For over 40 years, all of the band’s steel drums were exclusively built and maintained by master tuner Dr. Clifford Alexis. This ensemble is dedicated to performing the musical art form of Trinidad and educating people about that history. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. $7-$12. 2:30 p.m. akroncivic.com

1/25 “Dancing with the Stars: Live Tour 2022” Favorite dancers from this iconic TV series hit the stage this winter with a new show, starring Brandon Armstrong, Alan Bersten, Artem Chigvintsev and more. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. $45-$80. 8 p.m. akroncivic.com 1/28 Roxxymoron Voted best local band by Akron Life readers, Roxxymoron is an eight-piece rock pop cover band with horns, tight vocals and a song list spanning generations. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 N. Main St., Akron. $5-$10. jillysmusicroom.com 1/29 Dungeon Mapping for Beginner Game Masters Adults 21 and over can join an in-person tutorial on how to draw dungeon maps for any game master who wants to take their game to the next level and present their players with original maps and design. Have a drink and get creative. Materials and your first glass of wine are included. Registration is required. Akron ArtWorks, 1684 Merriman Road, Akron. 7-9 p.m. $30. akronartworks.com 2/2 Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets This band is made up of Pink Floyd’s formidable drummer and co-founder Nick Mason along with other musical legends Gary Kemp, Guy Pratt, Lee Harris and Dom Beken. Aptly named after Pink Floyd’s second album, fans get treated to songs from Floyd’s iconic early catalog up to the 1972 album “Obscured by Clouds,” including the epic “Echoes.” Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $60-$105. akroncivic.com 2/3 Alla Boara This critically acclaimed group of artists seeks to bring recognition and new life to Italy’s diverse history of regional folk music. The modern arrangements of near-extinct folk songs are surprising, playful, mournful, tender and bewitching. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $20. akroncivic.com 2/4 “15 60 75” The Numbers Band This long-running blues-rock combo formed in Kent in 1969 with an original lineup that included guitarist-keyboardist Hank Smith, bassist Greg Colbert and drummer Tim Hudson. Jilly’s Music Room Music Room, 111 N. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $5-$10. jillysmusicroom.com 2/4-2/26 “Something Rotten” Set in the 1590s, brothers Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadows of that Renaissance rock star known as “The Bard.” When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theater involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first musical. See it on select dates. The Hudson Players, 41 S. Oviatt St., Hudson. 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. $15. hudsonplayers.com 2/5 “Lift Ev’ry Voice: A Celebration of Brotherhood & Sisterhood” Monteverdi’s beautiful “Nigra Sum” from the Vespers of 1610 meets a stunning 2019 composition of the same title by Black composer Jonathan Woody. Renowned countertenor Reggie Mobley shares tales of his childhood growing up Black in the deep south. A suite by Joseph Bologne, known as “the Black Mozart” in the 18th century, leads to Civil War-era spirituals. The Apollo’s Musettes youth choir join Apollo’s Fire musicians and soloists in this celebration of our shared humanity. Arlington Church of God, 539 S. Arlington St., Akron. 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. $10-$72. apollosfire.org

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2/5 Zoso with Ravenwood Zoso: the Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience formed in 1995 to perform the most accurate and captivating Led Zeppelin live show since the real thing. Each band member has been carefully selected to portray both the appearance and playing styles of their Led Zeppelin counterparts. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $20. akroncivic.com 2/5 All Grateful Dead Show featuring the JiMiller Band JiMiller blends together blues, country, Cajun, old rock ‘n’ roll, jazz and bluegrass into a musical Americana that is described as “fresh and timeless.” The band, however, is best-known for its freeform improv rock that was made famous by the Grateful Dead and Allman Brothers. Akron Civic Theatre, Knight Stage, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $20. akroncivic.com 2/5 Jim Ballard & the Strangs with Jon Mosey Trio An Akron native, Jim Ballard has long been a part of the Northeast Ohio music scene. The lineup of the Jon Mosey Trio is Mosey on guitar, vocals and songwriter, Tb Player on bass and Erik Diaz on drums. Jilly’s Music Room, 111 N. Main St., Akron. 8 p.m. $5-$10. jillysmusicroom.com

2/6 MadCap Puppets present “The Story Quest” Royal storyteller Everett Hickenbottom has spun 999 tales in as many nights for the queen. He recounts two adventurous tales before getting help from the audience to imagine one final wondrous story. This family-favorite includes loads of audience participation and hilarious puppets in this charming production. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 2:30 p.m. $5-$14. akroncivic.com 2/8 Violinist Joshua Bell and Soprano Larisa Martinez Bell is one of the world’s most recognized and in-demand classical musicians. Martinez is the operatic soprano who debuted to acclaim at Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall in 2019 and has performed extensively with Andrea Bocelli. Together, they are coming to Akron as one of the first stops on their first tour as a married couple during Tuesday Musical’s latest show. E.J. Thomas Hall. 198 Hill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $25-$70. tuesdaymusical.org 2/11 Dwight Yoakam presented by Latshaw Productions Enjoy a show by Dwight Yoakam, who has sold more than 25 million albums worldwide and is a Grammy Award-winning performer. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N, Canton. 7 p.m. $52-$122. cantonpalacetheatre.org

2/11-2/27 “Charlotte’s Web” Based on E.B. White’s classic story, the show centers around the tender, life-changing friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte who manages to save his life. This show is full of love, devotion and heartwarming humor. See it on select dates. Players Guild Theatre, 1001 Market Ave. N, Canton. $25. playersguildtheatre.com 2/12 Wine, Cheese and Chocolate, Darling Celebrate life’s little pleasures at this unique and immersive tasting event that showcases numerous different wines, both domestic and international. Patrons can enjoy wines from dry to sweet, white to red and Champagne to port. Tastings are paired with amazing different cheeses and chocolates presented by local purveyors. Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Akron. 7 p.m. $45. akroncivic.com 2/12 Gospel Meets Symphony The concert — one of Northeast Ohio’s proudest and most enduring musical traditions — features the Akron Symphony Orchestra as well as a variety of inspirational songs performed by some of the area’s best musicians and vocalists, including the GMS 2.0 Choir, the junior gospel choir. E.J. Thomas Hall, 198 Hill St., Akron. 7:30 p.m. $15-$60. akronsymphony.org

Looking for a perfect Valentine’s date night?

He’s one of the world’s most famous violinists. She’s the soprano who has performed extensively with Andrea Bocelli. They’re both coming to EJ Thomas Hall on February 8 for Tuesday Musical’s Akron Concert Series. Tickets start at just $25. Or, for $50, get a three-concert package that also includes Tuesday Musical’s March 1 classical and-jazz concert reuniting long-separated Cuban brothers and May 4 concert by Miami’s sizzling Nu Deco orchestra. How about a sexy, intimate concert by newlywed superstars Joshua Bell and Larisa Martinez ?

Married in 2019, superstar violinist Joshua Bell and soprano Larisa Martinez are coming to Akron for a concert that’s a perfect Valentine’s date night.

For details: akronconcertseries.org 330-761-3460.

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330 FLAVOR AWARDS

by Kelly Petryszyn and Alexandra Sobczak

photos by Stefanie Manley

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FRESH TASTE TAKE A SEAT AT THESE BE T NEW RESTAURANTS. AMID THE PANDEMIC, THEY OPEN D TO OFFER AUTHENTIC MEXICAN FARE, RUSTIC SMOKEHOUSE PLATTERS AND ECLECTIC GLOBAL CUISINE. ENJOY THESE UNIQUE CULINARY EXPERIENCES, AND CHECK OUT OVER 225 OF YOUR PICKS FOR BEST GASTROPUB, JOJOS, BREWERY AND MORE.

330 FLAVOR AWARDS

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Owner Cameron Thomas delivers the roasted vegetable orzo and fire-roasted feta dip.

just eat, drink and have a good time, but also to buy beer and wine on their way out or even on separate occasions.” The menu features formal dishes like shrimp scampi and petite filet while also serv ing elevated casual fare like chicken pesto flatbreads and fire-roasted feta dip. “The main inspiration was to bring something a little more mature, a little more refined to Kent,” he says. “We’re looking to use high-quality ingredients utilizing some higher-end elements but also be very approachable.” The roasted vegetable orzo ($14) embodies that mission. With sauteed veggies like

zucchini, yellow squash, broccoli, tomato, artichoke and bok choy that get mixed with lemon garlic oil and house-made pesto over orzo and topped with goat cheese, the dish appeals to vegetarians, while also having the option to add shrimp, chicken or steak. “It has a nice crisp taste with the vegetables and a rich mouthfeel with the cheese,” Thomas says. “It’s perfect to add chicken to. It has a lus Merchant focuses on drinks, with an extensive menu of whiskey, gin, scotch, cocktails and more. Enjoy a seasonal drink like the gin-based spiced hibiscus honeypot cious, lingering finish.” Like Riverside, the River

while dining by the restau rant’s large windows or on its wraparound porch and soak ing up views of wildlife such as beavers, foxes, wild turkeys and a bald eagle. “There’s definitely a diverse array, especially in a more urbanized area,” he says. Also look for railroad tracks, where trains go by at least once per hour, and old canal markings, which inspired the restaurant’s name. “It just landed on River Merchant, trying to harken back to the mercantile canal railroad lineage,” Thomas says. AS 911 N. Mantua St., Kent, therivermerchantkent.com

When Cameron Thomas opened the River Merchant in early 2020, he had already spent years planning how to preserve the spot’s legacy. Formerly Riverside Wine & Imports, the Kent location has long been beloved by locals looking to shop for wine and get a scenic view of the Cuyahoga River. But now, you can shop, take in the sights and dine, all in one trip. “The big thinking for me is the lineage of this being a great location for retail,” says Thomas. The River Merchant still maintains a small market with specialty wine and beer. “A lot of people come to not

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330 FLAVOR AWARDS

Best Restaurant in The 330 1 . Sylvester’s North End Grille 2 . The Merchant Tavern 3 . Luigi’s Restaurant Best New Restaurant in The 330 1 . El Patron Tequileria & Cuisine 2 . Vinifera Wine to-Whiskey 3 . Mama’s Hot Dogs Best Restaurant in Downtown Akron 1 . Diamond Grille 2 . Luigi’s Restaurant 3 . Crave Best Restaurant in Medina County 1 . Santosuossos’ Pizza Pasta Vino 2 . Thyme2 3 . 111 Bistro Best Restaurant in Summit County 1 . Luigi’s Restaurant 2 . Kingfish 3 . The Bistro of Green Best Restaurant in Portage County 1 . Ray’s Place 2 . Arnie’s West Branch Steak House 3 . The River Merchant Best Restaurant in Stark County 1 . Sylvester’s North End Grille 2 . Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery 3 . Bender’s Tavern Best Chef in The 330 1 . Tony Sledge, Kingfish 2 . Beau Schmidt, Beau’s Grille 3 . John G. Bahas, Waterloo Restaurant and Catering

Best Restaurateur 1 . John G. Bahas 2 . Ken Stewart 2 . John Kolar 3 . Beau Schmidt Best Service Staff 1 . Rosewood Grill 2 . Kingfish 3 . Beau’s Grille

Best Breakfast 1 . Farmer Boy Restaurant

2 . Fred’s Diner 3 . Wally Waffle

Best Chicken and Waffles 1 . Beau’s Grille 2 . Wally Waffle 3 . Blue Door Cafe & Bakery Best Benedict 1 . Rosewood Grill 2 . Wally Waffle 3 . Beau’s Grille Best Sandwiches 1 . D & M Grille 2 . Menches Bros. Restaurant 3 . Beau’s Grille Best Classic Burger 1 . D & M Grille 2 . Swensons Drive-In 3 . Pub Bricco Best Specialty Burger 1 . Menches Bros. Restaurant 2 . Swensons Drive-In 3 . The Rail Best Veggie Burger 1 . The Merchant Tavern 2 . Swensons Drive-In 3 . Butcher & Sprout 3 . Mustard Seed Market & Cafe Best Reuben 1 . Diamond Deli 2 . Beau’s Grille 3 . Waterloo Restaurant and Catering

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