Marion’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Tapas Bar brings the casual elegance of dining indoors back to the forefront

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Marion’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Tapas Bar is introducing Charcuterie Boards—which are all the rage and the perfect size to share. The visually-enticing boards are built with a generous selection of cured meats, cheeses, fruits, veggies, grilled toast points, nuts and more. (Photography: Benjamin Margalit)

By Mary Malik

Outdoor patio dining season is winding down and we’re heading back indoors. Good thing there’s a casual, upscale and sophisticated dining experience waiting for you and your friends at Marion’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Tapas Bar in Mentor.

Marion’s restaurant manager, Joe Phillips, has teamed up with his old friend, chef Marion Smith, and food and beverage manager, Jonathan Morrow, to create this casually elegant setting. In the Tapas Bar, enjoy a wide variety of small bites and sandwiches, craft cocktails and beers, an expansive wine list and live entertainment.

Weather permitting, the patio at Marion’s Mediterranean Restaurant and Tapas Bar is an enjoyable place to relax with friends.

“Joe and I worked together way back when I was the head chef at Classics restaurant in Cleveland,” says Marion. “Joe is the ultimate professional in this industry and knows all there is to know about creating not just a place to eat, but also a true dining experience—and that’s what we offer here.”

Joe has raised the level of service at Marion’s from the great experience people have already come to expect, to a level beyond anyone’s expectations.

“When I was at Classics there were only two five-star restaurants in Ohio at the time and we were one of them,” says Joe. “It was more than a dinner out. From the time you arrived until the time you got in your car at the end of the evening, you knew you had just experienced something very special. I know just how to create that same feeling here at Marion’s. We already have it here with the food, now we’ve elevated the rest of your experience.”

So, with Marion taking care of the food and Joe the service, Jonathan is ready to take your beverage choices up a notch as well.

“Jonathan has been working with me since Marion’s opened two years ago and has learned just how I like things done,” says Marion. “He’s excited to have some fun introducing creative craft cocktails, local beers and wines and other surprises.”

Marion and Joe know from their time at a high-end restaurant like Classics that in this business you often get just one opportunity to make a lasting impression. They take that very seriously.

“Our goal is to take that moment we have with you and give you something that will last a lifetime,” says Joe. “There’s never, ever an excuse for bad service.”

And how could you have a bad experience at the Tapas Bar with small bites like grilled beef tenderloin plates, wild mushroom risotto balls, Marion’s signature Greek saganaki (flaming) cheese presented tableside and served with homemade bread, or spicy capicola-wrapped shrimp?

Marion’s signature French Onion Soup

That’s only the beginning. The expansive bar and seating areas are dimly lit by shaded overhead crystal chandeliers that add sophistication and a hint of mystery to the upscale room.

“This is the place to come with your friends after a long day at work and immediately relax as soon as you walk in,” says Joe. “We’ve got the atmosphere, the food, drinks and music covered. Have a seat and let us take good care of you.”

You may want to start with a nice glass of red, white or rosé from the extensive wine list that includes selections from local wineries like Ferrante and

M Cellars. You can sip on that while you and your friends choose one of the charcuterie boards or create your own personal board choosing from local cheeses, meats and house-made seasonal desserts. And there are always, always food and drink specials at the Tapas Bar.

And, you’ll want to save room for dessert and coffee or a nightcap when you visit Marion’s Mediterranean. From left to right: Limoncello Truffle, Oreo Chocolate Mousse Cup and the Mango Cheesecake.

The Tapas Bar and the main room at Marion’s can also be reserved for your private gatherings and celebrations.

“We love nothing more than helping you celebrate,” says Joe. “Bridal and baby showers, anniversary parties, family reunions…put your most trusted celebrations in our hands.”

And with the holidays right around the corner, Marion’s Mediterranean Restaurant and Tapas Bar spaces are the perfect venue for your corporate celebrations as well.

“The Tapas Bar is a great space for a smaller office function and the main dining room or banquet space can accommodate large groups,” says Jonathan. “Reserve your space now for the holiday party and sit back, relax and enjoy the season.”

At the Tapas Bar, Marion, Joe and Jonathan want you to bring your family and friends and allow them to give you a unique dining experience you won’t find anyplace else.

“Together we are taking Marion’s Mediterranean Restaurant and Tapas Bar to the next level of food and service,” says Marion. “Come in and join us. You’re in great hands.”

Marion’s Mediterranean Restaurant and Tapas Bar is located at 7701 Reynolds Rd in Mentor. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.; closed on Sunday. Reservations are available through OpenTable.com or call 440-951-7100.