
Whether the occasion is a romantic getaway with your significant other or a rowdy, light-hearted family gathering, a charcuterie board is a great selection for a picnic. Sliced meats and cheeses, bite-size veggies and finger foods provide a nice variety of items that are perfect for day-long nibbling.
When it's time to start planning, you'll find everything you're looking for and more at these wonderful specialty food and beverage shops around Northeast Ohio.
5600 Highland Rd., Highland Heights, OH 44143
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DiStefano's Authentic Italian Foods has been a Northeast Ohio tradition since 1972. Their imported and domestic cold cuts, ranging from prosciutto to turkey breast, are sliced fresh to order for the highest quality. While you're there, pick up some imported olives and ready-to-eat salads to complement your meal. If you have a larger group, DiStefano's offers party and antipasto trays for a minimum of 10 people. Hours are 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
1455 W. 29th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Native son Jeremy, accompanied by culinary school pals Allie and Kenny, came home to open Larder Delicatessen & Bakery in the historic Ohio City Firehouse building. In their first year, the trio was rewarded with a James Beard Award nomination for Best New Restaurant. True to its name, Larder stocks a sizable variety of meats, cheeses, and other groceries to fill your picnic basket. Save time by purchasing one of Larder's traditional or vegetarian charcuterie boards. Larder is open noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
6610 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103
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The namesake of the Gust Gallucci Company arrived in Cleveland from Faeto, Italy during the early 1900s and found a number of fellow transplants longing for food from their native land. Gust's first "shop" was a large wooden cart, and succeeding locations grew to accommodate the booming business. The Gallucci family still operates the store with its fine selection of deli meats, gourmet cheeses, and Italian and Hungarian specialty items. Hours are 8 a.m - 6 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
4138 Pearl Rd., Cleveland, OH 44109
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How good are the products from Old Brooklyn Cheese Co.? Brides have actually ordered "wedding cakes" made with their cheese wheels. Old Brooklyn makes their own cheeses using non-GMO-certified cow's milk aged for at least 90 days. Their pickled and beer-infused whole mustards were developed for use in-house, but they proved to be so popular that Old Brooklyn began selling them at retail. With 48 hours' notice, Old Brooklyn will prepare one of their specialty charcuterie boards or create one customized to your request. Hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
668 U.S. Hwy. 250 E., Ashland, OH 44805
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How could you resist a name like Grandpa's Cheesebarn? There really was a Grandpa Baum, and the third generation of his family recently entered the business to carry on his tradition. Product selection includes local and imported, smoked and grilling cheeses along with homemade cheese spreads and cheese curds. Grandpa's beef jerky, beef sticks, and summer sausage pair nicely with the cheeses. In 2018, granddaughter Misty Ankerman opened Best of Grandpa's Cheesebarn at 3916 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. in Norton. The original location is open 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday. Hours at Best of Grandpa's are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
55 Kidron Rd., Orrville, OH 44667
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Yes, Shisler's Cheese House is literally a house. John Shisler opened his modestly charming shop in 1958 for the purpose of showcasing local cheeses and gourmet foods to the community and passers-by on the Lincoln Highway. Its success led to the opening of a second location at 1275 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. in Copley as well as a thriving business shipping products around the world. The third generation of Shislers now runs the shops with the same emphasis on customer service pioneered by their grandfather. Shisler's Orrville location is open daily from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. except Sunday, when doors open at 9 a.m., while the Copley location's hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
1979 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Originally opened in 1912, West Side Market is such an institution that it's a popular tourist attraction featured on Travel Channel and Food Network. The market is home to more than 100 vendors selling every food item imaginable, from meats and seafood to spices and nuts. With more than a dozen produce vendors on hand, you'll find the widest assortment of fruits and vegetables direct from the field. While you're there, pick up some crusty breads and other fresh baked goods for your picnic basket. West Side Market is open 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and now 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday as well.
4641 Broadview Rd., Cleveland, OH 44109
If you're looking for a slick, modern "food shoppe," Ziggy's Produce & Farm Market isn't the place for you. But if you want a modest, family-run store where the focus is on high-quality produce, this is it. Butternut squash, watermelon, apples and other fruits and vegetables come fresh from local Amish growers. Have a sweet tooth? Slip some of Ziggy's imported chocolates and candy into your order. Customers especially appreciate the friendly, helpful service from Ziggy's staff. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday, when Ziggy's closes at 4 p.m.
2271 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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Owners of The Wine Spot aim to be more than just a purveyor of the finest brands of red and white. Their goal is to be a valued Cleveland Heights neighbor as a gathering place and resource for the local community. The Wine Shop is housed in the former Seitz-Agin Hardware, whose sign is still lovingly displayed above the coolers, and the store serves as the student-run gallery of Cleveland Institute of Art. Store hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday.
6060 Broadview Rd., Parma, OH 44134
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Named Best Wine Shop on Cleveland Hot List, The Little Birdie Wine Nest is one of a trio of businesses that grew out of owner Robin's passions. The Little Birdie is joined by The Morning Owl Coffee Bar and The Balancing Flamingo Yoga Lounge. Robin is a professional sommelier who uses her extensive knowledge to curate the shop's selection of more than 1,000 wines from around the world. Still can't find the right wine? Special orders are cheerfully accepted. The Little Birdie is open 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
What's your favorite picnic spot around Northeast Ohio? Don't worry, we won't tell!

Designating a special time to recognize the joys of candy may seem a bit redundant. But in 1974, to counteract the post-holiday dropoff in consumption, National Candy Month was born.
While National Candy Month was originally celebrated in January, it has since been moved to June. This is the perfect time to indulge your sweet tooth at these delectable candy shops around Northeast Ohio.
6770 Brookpark Rd., Cleveland, OH 44129
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A candy superstore may sound like something dreamed up by Willy Wonka, but it's not movie magic. Serving Cleveland and Northeast Ohio for more than 65 years. b.a. Sweetie Candy Company is the largest candy store in the United States. Sweeties carries an incredible 4,500 items, including retro favorites such as Turkish Taffy that will take you back to childhood. As if that weren't enough of a draw, this Disneyland for candy lovers also has an onsite soda shoppe and two 18-hole miniature golf courses. No time to shop in person? Order online for pick-up or delivery. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
6800 Detroit Ave., Cleveland, OH 44102
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The neighborhood soda fountain is a nostalgic memory for many, but Sweet Moses, named for Cleveland's founding father, brings it back to life. Sodas, floats, and other treats feature ice cream made in-house, which also includes vegan and sugar-free options. The 16-foot counter is made from Tennessee marble, and the restored wrought-iron chairs add another touch of authenticity. Before you leave, check out the candy case and take home some freshly-made chocolate bark, brownie pops, or caramel corn. Sweet Moses is open 2 p.m. - 10 p.m. daily, with extended hours until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
1297 Krumroy Rd., Akron, OH 4306
Have you spent the last couple of months refining your culinary skills? Whip up some homemade treats with ingredients and supplies from The Cake & Candy Depot. In addition to chocolates, icings, decorations, molds, and an amazing assortment of supplies, the shop carries cello bags, gift boxes, and other packaging options. Whether you're baking for five or 500, you'll find everything you need on the Depot's shelves. Spend time browsing and get inspired to try some new creations. Hours are 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - noon Saturday.
746 Richmond Rd., Cleveland, OH 4143
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Why should you visit All City Candy? Their own words say it best: It's 5,000-square-feet of "tasty, sugar-coated, candy-filled bliss." With names like Harry London, Russell Stover, Brach's, Hershey's, and Jelly Belly, All City's inventory reads like a Who's Who of iconic candy makers. Kids of all ages will have a blast with the selection of PEZ, spin pops, rock candy, and other novelty sweets. If you want something upscale for a gift or special occasion, All City offers gourmet treats of pretzels, marshmallows, Pop-Tarts, and other goodies hand-dipped in chocolate. Visit the website for weekly specials during National Candy Month. All City is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
4301 State Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264
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In 1954, Harry Grabham was making chocolate as treats for clients at his barbershop. The sweets were so well received that Harry decided to go into the business full-time with Grabham Candies. Today, the fourth generation of Grabhams continues Harry's tradition in the same building he opened more than 65 years ago. Grandpa Grabham's classic flavors include butter rum, almond toffee, turtles, and Danish puffs. Purchase candies individually or in pre-selected assortments that make great gifts. Store hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
743 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44702
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When a company has been operating for nearly a century, it must be pretty good at what they do. Ben Heggy's Candy Co. has been serving Northeast Ohio and candy lovers across the country since 1923. Over the years, parents and grandparents have introduced succeeding generations to Heggy's chocolates, caramels, salted nuts, and mints. Heggy's is open weekdays from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
5338 Mayfield Rd., Lyndhurst, OH 44124
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Yes, chocolate is just about perfect on its own, but pairing it with wine is a whole new level of deliciousness. Joel Fink, founder of Fantasy Candies, spent years creating his elite blend of high-cocoa chocolate called SweetDreams 72. The shop's curated selection of wines is a natural accompaniment, and staff members are happy to suggest specific pairings. Try their tasty "crunch" creations in which potato chips, Oreos, matzos, and other food items are hand-dipped in chocolate. Hours are 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
931 High Grove Blvd., Akron, OH 44312
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"Home of the World's Best Peanut Brittle" is a serious claim, but Arnold's Candies backs it up with an elite product and testimony from scores of satisfied customers. Other popular flavors of brittle include vanilla almond, pecan bacon, and cashew. Arnold's high quality is also found in soft mints, their other signature item, which comes in a variety of flavors such as peppermint, wild cherry, and root beer. Store hours are weekdays from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
6656 Wise Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
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The exquisite creations of Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates are like tiny pieces of art. When you bite into one, you'll discover they truly taste as good as they look. The shop's signature series of assorted chocolates includes the aptly-named Show Stopper, a two-pound collection of milk and dark chocolate treats. Other favorites include classic Ohio Buckeyes, truffles, and sea salt caramels. Anastasiades is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
When you're craving sugar, which goodie do you reach for to satisfy your sweet tooth?

Dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, street food has been a staple of many global cultures. Today, the growing popularity of food trucks has brought the convenience and variety of street food to Columbus and other cities around the United States.
Find out firsthand how food trucks are changing the Columbus dining scene by visiting these upcoming events.
Seventh Son Brewing - 1101 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43201
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The Hawaiian cuisine of Aloha Aina is so authentic that you'll feel the tropical sun and breezes while you eat. Customers line up for their signature steamed buns with pork, chicken, tofu, or Spam filling. Their Maui Fresh rice bowl has been described as "deconstructed sushi" and the Loco No Moco bowl is a lighter take on the traditional Hawaiian dish. Find Aloha Aina outside Seventh Son Brewing on Wednesdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Care Point East - 543 Taylor Ave., Columbus, OH 43203
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Who knew lobsters and sharks made such a great team? Backing from Barbara Corcoran of Shark Tank turned Cousins Maine Lobster into a national sensation. Now owners Jimmy and Sabin (yes, they're cousins) have brought their New England seafood favorites to Columbus. Try an iconic lobster roll or shrimp tacos with a side of Cape Cod chips. Grab a tasty lunch from Cousins outside Care Point East on Tuesday, May 26 between 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Ohio Theatre - 39 E. State St., Columbus, OH 43215
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No, Two Fatt Indians doesn't describe owners Amit Kumar and Raj Sabherwal. They just thought it was a funny, catchy name for their truck, which serves genuine North Indian cuisine. The chicken tikka masala earns unanimous raves, while the yogurt-based strawberry lassi drink is a treat rarely found in the Columbus area. Several vegetarian options are available, and the owners are happy to accommodate your preferred level of heat. Two Fatt Indians can be frequently found outside the Ohio Theatre from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Harrison Pond - 4720 Shull Rd., Columbus, OH 43230
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The all-American ice cream sundae gets a Latin twist at Glazed Churro Bar. Vanilla soft-serve is spiked with two churro sticks and dressed up with a range of sauces and toppings, such as the best-selling Cinna-Crunch featuring Cinnamon Toast Crunch and salted caramel glaze. If you can't live by dessert alone, the truck also serves tacos, burritos, and other savory street food. Stop by Harrison Pond on Monday, May 25 between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. for dinner, dessert, or both.
W. Broad St. & N. Front St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Remember what Mom said about the most important meal of the day? Heath, owner of Always Eat Breakfast, does. Start the day off right with one of their breakfast burritos or bowls made to order with your choice of ingredients. Heartier appetites may choose biscuits or tots topped with sausage or bacon gravy. Pick up one of Heath's extra-large muffins, baked on the truck, for a great midday snack. In a hurry? Visit the website the night before to order ahead. Always Eat Breakfast will be brightening the morning around the intersection of W. Broad St. and N. Front St. from 7 a.m. - 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 26.
St. Vincent Family Center - 1490 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43205
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Pita sandwiches are portable and filling, two qualities essential in street food. The fresh and flavorful sandwiches from Pitabilities have earned them a frequent #1 rating by Columbus residents. In addition to the traditional Greek gyro pita, the menu includes variations such as New Delhi with tikka masala sauce and Philly Steak with grilled onions and mushrooms. Possibilities Fries, topped with lettuce, tomato, onions, and your choice of protein, are a meal by themselves. On Friday, May 22 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., they'll be Quantum Health 2 at 5260 Blazer Pkwy.
Fifth Third Bank - 1669 Fishinger Rd., Columbus, OH 43221
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For nearly 150 years, Schmidt has been a legendary name in the Columbus food industry. Schmidt's Sausage Truck is the most recent venture for a family business that includes a meat-packing company, concession stands, and a German-themed restaurant. The Bahama Mama, Schmidt's signature pork and beef sandwich, was voted the official food of Columbus. Other offerings include bratwurst, knockwurst, and bologna, as well as classic sides of red cabbage, sauerkraut, and potato salad. Save room for one of the award-winning jumbo cream puffs. Catch Schmidt's outside the UA Five Points branch of Fifth Third Bank on Thursdays from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and Fridays from 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
DSW - 810 DSW Dr., Columbus, OH 43219
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If America had a national food, it would probably be fried chicken. Since 2012, people around Columbus have been flocking to Mya's Fried Chicken and their Korean-inspired, sweet-and-spicy take on the comfort food classic. The meat is brined in buttermilk for 24 hours and pan-fried to a crispy brown before the final touch: a drizzle of honey and vinegar infused with herbs and chilies. Choose from sandwiches, tenders, and wings with a selection of scratch-made sides. Stop by Mya's on Wednesday, May 27 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. outside the DSW home office and truck lot.
Ace of Cups - 2619 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
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No roundup of top food trucks in Columbus would be complete without Ray Ray's Hog Pit. Pork, beef, and chicken are coated with dry rub and cooked low-and-slow for that trademark pink smoke ring. Sauces are served on the side so you can apply to suit your individual taste. Can't decide? Go for the Meatsweats box filled with smoked brisket, pulled pork, jerk chicken, dry-rubbed ribs, and a hot link. Ray Ray's flagship location, adjacent to Ace of Cups, is open Thursday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.
If you opened a food truck, what would be your specialty?

The popularity of Asian food in the Columbus area now extends to a beverage. Bubble tea, created in Taiwan during the 1980s, usually contains milk and sugar along with a wide range of "toppings." While these add-ins include red beans, pudding and jelly, the most common one is tapioca pearls that give bubble tea its distinctive, Instagram-ready look.
Whether you're a bubble tea newbie or long-time fan, you'll find your perfect drink at these wonderful tea and juice shops (and one sushi joint!) around Columbus.
809 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43214
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If you want a primer on bubble tea, head to The Brewed Leaf. Customers rave about the authenticity and wide range of drink options available. In addition to tapioca pearls, you can choose from toppings such as wild rice, red bean, pudding, and aloe. The Brewed Leaf even has tea topped with a layer of cream cheese, a popular variation in China that gives the tea a welcome savory touch. Settle in with your drink over one of the board games the shop keeps on hand. Hours are 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.
2781 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43202
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It may not be a traditional culinary duo like spaghetti and meatballs or bacon and eggs, but Chicken & Tea has become a favorite combo around Columbus. The food truck serves bubble tea along with traditional Taiwanese fried chicken dishes, including their signature giant chicken cutlet that's the size of your head. Complete your meal with sweet potato fries or fried broccoli, green beans, or mushrooms. Chicken & Tea operates March through November, so check their Facebook page for updates. Standard hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. weekdays and 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. weekends.
982 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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ZenCha Tea Salon has the elegantly soothing ambiance you associate with drinking tea. ZenCha's mission of promoting international tea arts is accomplished by their professionally-trained "tea ambassadors," who are charged with providing elite customer service and helpful knowledge to all customers. The tea menu lists nearly 100 options from Asia, Europe and Africa, while bubble tea comes in delicious flavors such as peach, hazelnut, and caramel. Enjoy classic afternoon tea, including finger sandwiches, scones, and petite sweets, weekdays from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Stop in from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday, when brunch is served all day.
921 E. Johnstown Road, Columbus, OH 43230
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East meets West at Pochi Café with its blend of bubble teas and made-to-order sub sandwiches crafted with fresh meats and cheeses. Sandwiches like chicken parmesan, cheesesteak, and Italian come in 6-, 10- and 20-inch sizes. Other drink choices include smoothies with exotic flavors such as taro-coconut, peach-lychee, and mango-passion fruit. The updated diner-style seating area suits Pochi Café's stated belief in "The Art of Relaxing." Hours are 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. weekdays and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. weekends.
2899 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
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Like a little karaoke with your bubble tea? Little Moon Café & Tea hosts Karaoke Night every Saturday from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. With other regular events such as Monday Game Nights and Tuesday Euchre League, the charming café is a great place to hang out with old friends and make new ones. Each Monday at 1:30 p.m., Little Moon also serves as the base for Clintonville Entrepreneurship Center, a community resource for current and aspiring small business owners. Little Moon is open daily from 1 p.m. - 9 p.m. except Friday and Saturday, when hours are extended to 10 p.m.
1502 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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How good is the bubble tea at Knobu Sushi? Satisfied customers talk about the bubble tea as much as they do the sushi. What makes Knobu Sushi's bubble tea so special? The right degree of sweetness, size of the tapioca pearls and pearl-to-tea ratio. Sushi itself comes primarily in three different forms: rolls, burritos, and poke bowls, with each order customized for your choice of ingredients. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Sunday.
1440 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43220
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"Life is uncertain ... eat dessert first." Sometimes you just want to get down to the good stuff, and those are the times you head to Wali Dessert. Bubble tea fits perfectly into their menu of ice cream, smoothies, juices, and baked goods. Sit back in one of the comfy chairs or couches and indulge your sweet tooth. Order online for quick take-out. Wali Dessert is open noon - 10 p.m. every day but Tuesday.
5025 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43214
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Want a light lunch to go with your bubble tea? Tea Zone Bakery & Café fits the bill. The menu features ramen and udon, two classic noodle dishes, along with lunch boxes that include your choice of protein with rice and kimchi. Be sure to try the bingsoo, a traditional Korean shaved ice dessert topped with fruit, ice cream, and other yummy add-ins. Don't leave without picking up some of the amazing baked goods such as potato bacon bread, apple fritters, or fresh fruit cake. Hours are 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
3951 Easton Square Place E., Columbus, OH 43219
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Add a little variety to your bubble tea at Koko Tea Salon & Bakery. Instead of tapioca pearls, go with popping pearls filled with strawberry, mango, or peach juice. Koko specializes in cupcakes, another sweet treat with widespread popularity. Mix and match from the extensive list of cake and icing flavors that includes salty caramel, cake batter, peppermint, and Hawaiian coconut. If you want a more classic tea experience, Koko's downtown location at 361 E. Broad St. is open exclusively as a tea house. Events include lunch hour teas, traditional high teas, mimosa teas, kids' teas, and themed teas. Reservations are required. Hours at Easton Square are 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
1990 N. High St., Columbus OH 43201
The name may not be literal, but it's close. Between bubble tea, fresh tea, slushes, espresso, and punch, Millions of Milk Tea has a seemingly endless number of beverage options. While beverages are the main event, Millions of Milk Tea also has a similarly impressive menu of Chinese appetizers, soups, and entrées. You could probably eat lunch AND dinner every day for a year without ever repeating a meal. Millions of Milk Tea is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Which beverage found in Columbus fits you to a "tea?"

Here at Cutler Real Estate, we love food in every form! More specifically, we love the diverse groceries and authentic items found in the unique purveyor shops that stock everything from meat and cheese to exotic spices and sauces. With a calendar full of meals to fill, we want our shopping list to be as tasty as possible.
If you're looking to introduce new cultures and cuisines into your diet, you've come to the right place. On this list, you'll find twelve of the finest specialty and gourmet food shops around Northeast Ohio that deliver the world's flavor right into your shopping cart.
An homage to fromage, Fromage du Monde welcomes Canton residents into a world of cheese. This artisan cheese house is ready to serve you selections of the finest cheeses sourced from regions around the globe. Sample a few favorites with their cheese flight, pair the best cheeses and meats on their charcuterie board, or order up a cheese panini and cup of homemade soup for lunch. Interested in becoming a cheese connoisseur? They'll gladly teach you how to "speak cheese."
While we love a good cappuccino, we also love to curl up with a book and a nice cup of tea on a cold, wintery Ohio day. What better place to stock up on everything tea than the Ohio Tea Company? Opened in November 2015 by Terry Gabet, Ohio Tea Company is your source for loose-leaf teas ranging from favorites like Earl Grey and English Breakfast varieties, to herbal blends like Berry Blues and Lemon Ginger. Don't forget to stock up on tea filters and an infuser to start enjoying tea on a grand scale.
The right oils can lend remarkable flavor to any dish. At The Olive Tap in Medina, you have the opportunity to taste the difference and experience the quality that has earned the freshest olive oils and balsamic vinegars industry acclaim. They carry a selection of gourmet specialty foods like pastas, tapenades, olives, sauces, salsas, and jams to help you curate a meal precisely to your desired taste. Hoping to test out a few new recipes? The folks at The Olive Tap will be happy to suggest tasty dinners you can prepare with their oils.
3441 Tuttle Road Ste 103, Shaker Heights
Spice up your pantry while supporting your local Northeast Ohio nonprofits by shopping at Spice For Life. Spices, herbs, salts, peppercorns, chili peppers, and seasoning blends are all on deck at this stall within the Van Aken District Market Hall. While their products will make your plate a tastier place, their kindness makes our world a better place too. All of their profits are donated to various nonprofit organizations throughout the area that support human trafficking victims and prevent future instances of this prevalent problem in Ohio.
You don't need to travel across the Atlantic Ocean for the best European foods — simply head to the west side of I-71 in Brunswick and stop at European Specialty Food Market. Check off your entire grocery list as you shop their imports of meat, fish, cheese, pastries, sweets, and alcoholic beverages. Get a jar of borsch, just like grandma used to make. Cook up a fresh smoked sausage from Hungary, kielbasa from Poland, or weisswurst from Germany. Wash it all down with French wine or a Belgian beer, and you'll be overjoyed that you can eat so well without a passport.
Heinen's Grocery Store is a Cleveland institution. Since the 1920s, this butcher shop turned grocery store has been the one-stop-shop for everything you need to fill your refrigerator and pantry. Among their inventory of fresh, frozen, and packaged foods, Heinen's also carries local favorites from the state in nearly every department. Experience Ohio the way it was meant to be tasted by loading your shopping cart up with produce, cheeses, meats, and pastries from local farms, butcheries, and bakeries.
A hidden gem that you must unwrap, Mel's Sweet Shop lets you indulge your confectionary cravings. Once known as Penny's Sweet Supplies, Mel's is a cake decorating and baking supply store full of delicious goodies. They'll make sure you're stocked with the molds, frosting, fondant, and candy you need to make any sweet treat. Keep an eye on their calendar, too — they host candy making and cake decorating classes throughout the year. Just do us a favor and save a bite for us.
25650 Aurora Road, Bedford Heights
Say hola to the vibrant tastes of Latin America at Las Americas Latin Market & Restaurant. This specialty grocery store is full of flavor and ready to give your meals a little Latin flair. If you're new to Latin foods, you're in luck! Las Americas is also a restaurant. They serve up delicious Mexican and Peruvian cuisine so you can sample, savor, and plan your next meal.
Authentic South Asian groceries and cuisine are available at Sunny's Asian Food. This family-owned establishment lures you in with their sweet complimentary chai and aromas that tempt you to venture over to their kitchen in the back of the store. Serving up homemade Indian foods all week, we dare you to taste an item off of their menu and try to leave empty-handed. Once you sample their authentic offerings on the all-you-can-eat buffet, you'll fill your hands with as many groceries as you can carry so you can make these South Asian staples at home.
Cheese and mustard — you need both in your refrigerator, and Old Brooklyn Cheese Company has them ready for you. Not only do they carry local, domestic, and imported cheeses, but they also produce their own raw milk cheeses using milk from Hartzler Family Dairy in Wooster. The Old Brooklyn Cheese Company cheeses are only rivaled by their handmade mustards — or as they like to call them, Cleveland Caviar. Grab both, get home, and savor the flavor of Cleveland's finest cheese and mustard pairings.
8064 Columbia Road, Olmsted Falls
We don't have just one reason why we love Grand Pacific Popcorn Company — we have nearly 40! #1: Cheddar Pretzel Ale. #2: Bulldog Blend. #3: Red Cinnamon. Better yet, why don't you pay a visit to their shop in the Grand Pacific Junction and sample their savory, sweet, and seasonal flavors. While you're there, pick up some old-fashioned candy and soda to keep your sweet tooth satisfied all year long.
14492 Pearl Road, Strongsville
Jerky, smokies, sauces, and snacks — the best of the best are available at Jerky -n- Spice. They've got palate-pleasing variations of beef jerky, turkey jerky, exotic game smokies, seasonings, salsas, condiments, and sauces that cater to every taste imaginable. Where else in Ohio can you taste kangaroo, ostrich, alligator, buffalo, and antelope in the same shop? If you'd like to make your own sausage or jerky at home, they'll provide you with a kit and give you a few tips.
Where's your go-to destination for specialty and gourmet foods around Northeast Ohio? Let us know in the comments!