Hidden Inside A Neighborhood Market, This Old-School Deli Makes Some Of The Best Sandwiches In Cleveland
By Nikki Rhoades|Published July 25, 2023
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Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
If there’s one thing that makes Greater Cleveland’s suburbs especially exciting, it’s the superabundance of local supermarkets. From long-standing landmarks like the West Side Market to pop-up farmers markets, there’s more than enough to side-step the need to visit big box stores for groceries. However, few markets have captured this hyperlocal ethos better than one bazaar in Shaker Heights. Van Aken Market Hall sits in the heart of the suburb’s energetic Van Aken District, beckoning to visitors with a curated selection of local businesses and eateries. Here hides one of the best sandwich shops in Greater Cleveland… and it’s something of a secret, as the business doesn’t even tout its sandwich selection. Check out these mouthwatering options:
The shining star of the Van Aken District, the eponymous Van Aken Market Hall is a must-see destination.
I love local gems like this. This welcoming modern storefront hides a number of local businesses, placing the spotlight on area makers, growers, and sellers. It's a great place to stop if you're hankering for a bite to eat!
Locals love visiting Banter, one of the many impressive businesses in the market.
Banter is a purveyor of indulgences, from house-made sausages and poutine to an international selection of wines and craft beers. Their food is so good that it has been featured on television shows on Food Network, Travel Channel, and the Cooking Channel.
Unbeknownst to many, poutine can come in various styles, and Banter doesn't shy away from that! Their menu includes unique options like chicken paprikash, buffalo wing, and even mushroom-topped frites. There's enough variety to satisfy most styles of snackers.
The menu also features sausages, including one cherished Cleveland tradition: Polish Boys!
For those that aren't in the loop on this classically Cleveland treat, a Polish Boy features a kielbasa topped with cole slaw, fries, and sauce. Banter serves theirs with BBQ sauce, though hot sauce is another frequent topping you'll encounter. If the Polish Boy isn't your vibe, try a corndog, chili cheese dog, or any of their other mouthwatering sausage options.
But the sausages aren't the only handhelds here... though their sign may lead you to believe otherwise!
While the menu is limited, the options don't stop there! There are other appetizers to get your mouth watering, and there are even more entrees to dig into.
Chicken, catfish, and beef sliders are a hit with locals... and they're quietly some of the best sammies in the area.
These mixable, matchable entrees are perfect for adventurous and traditional eaters alike. Try the "It's Poppin" burger for jalapeno popper-topped goodness, or the chicken and waffles slider for an epic combination of savory and sweet.
Plus, you never know when sandwiches are going to pop up on their weekend specials list.
Be sure to follow the Banter Facebook to see what's coming. Come with your appetite, and maybe plan to take home a to-go order and a bottle... you'll love having a little treat to look forward to later!
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Before or after your meal, be sure to budget time to explore the market... it's casual and welcoming, and a great place to relax.
This is an excellent place to meet up with friends for lunch, embark on an adventure with your family, or take a solo adventure. Beyond the market, the Van Aken District also has much to offer, so it's worthy of a whole day trip.
Bring your appetite, and don't forget to take something home for later!
...And wear comfortable shoes, because you're going to want to explore all that the Van Aken District has to offer. Don't forget your reusable shopping bag, either!
Find the market at 3441 Tuttle Rd, Shaker Heights, OH, 44122.
One of the best sandwich shops in Greater Cleveland is hidden in Van Aken Market, and it’s calling your name. What will you be ordering? Let us know in the comments!
Before you head into the area, read into the history of Shaker Heights. It has one of the coolest stories to tell in Northeast Ohio!
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