The Big Cheese Downtown

Ever since I started this blog, one of my goals was to spend more time in downtown Akron, and especially, to try out some of the lunch spots I haven't had the chance to visit. Living and working as I do in the suburbs, my usual downtown lunches are business meetings that tend to be in the more “upscale” restaurants. So, I made it a mission to get into some of the other places.

This is not as easy as it sounds. For one thing, if you don't work downtown, parking is a bit more challenging and expensive. I don't have a nice monthly reserved parking spot, and I often forget to carry pocket change, so I needed to park in some of the county parking garages...and that can add between $2.00 and $5.00 to the lunch check! Of course, a parking ticket would add $50.00, so why am I complaining?

Anyway, as a connoisseur of tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches, not to mention good craft brewed beer, I had to put the Lockview at the top of my list. Located pretty much directly across from the Lock 3 Park, the Lockview specializes in dishes made with lots of cheese, and does so very well. The menu lists a dozen gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches featuring not only a variety of additions, but also a variety of cheese options. And, of course, you can always ask for your own customized combination. Pair one up with the tomato soup, which is always on the menu, or the soup of the day, and you've got lunch beyond the ordinary.

I liked the fact that the full-service bar features dozens of craft brews on tap. If you're a bit of an Englishman in your tastes, a good bitter is a great pairing with a Cheddar cheese, apple and bacon sandwich. I also loved the handmade deep-fried macaroni and cheese bites served with Siriacha ketchup. Next time I visit, I've got to try the Lockview Croquettes...mashed potatoes and cheese coated with panko, then deep-fried.

During the summer, there's a rooftop patio, where local bands sometimes entertain. Inside, there is space on the walls devoted to rotating exhibits by local artists. There is a terrific sound system. They were playing my favorite songs from the '70s on the radio one day, but they host local musicians, CD release parties, and monthly special socials.

With the entrance located right on South Main Street (207 S. Main to be exact), in the corner ground floor of the Ohio Building, it's not hard to find. I would advise getting there early...it was nearly deserted when I walked in at 11:15 one weekday, but practically exploded with customers at 11:30 when some of the government offices let their first shift go to lunch. Obviously, it's a downtown favorite!

Here's a link to the web site if you want to explore the full menu and beer list: http://www.thelockview.com/