Michael Symon's favorite pie

From the moment you walk under an Italian-striped awning, and take in the ceiling of twinkling lights, flickering candles on the tables and murals of the sweeping Mediterranean countryside, Geraci’s Restaurant transports you to a cozy taverna on the sun-dappled coast of Sicily.

“It’s an honor for my wife, Marti Geraci Spoth, and I to carry on the traditions started by her parents in 1956 with their flagship restaurant in University Heights,” says owner Greg Spoth. “Working with our children, over the years we’ve expanded our brand of authentic, from-scratch Italian dishes served in a casual, family-friendly setting by opening restaurants in Pepper Pike, Mayfield Village, Willoughby and downtown Cleveland. We’re celebrating our one-year anniversary in historic downtown Willoughby and couldn’t be happier to be here.”

The eatery seats about 48, between cozy tables and bar stools, and bar counter in the front window that looks out to Erie Street and makes for great people-watching.

Good Enough for Michael Symon

Geraci’s pizza has garnered top honors both in Cleveland and nationally, proudly representing the CLE on TV’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives twice.

“Though I’m pleased to have won numerous awards for our pizza over the years,” says Greg, “what I’m even more proud of is to have Michael Symon say we are his favorite Cleveland pizza. That means a lot.”

What’s the most popular “pie” at Geraci’s? Hands down the pepperoni, cooked well done.

“We only serve the best pepperoni money can buy, then we cut it nice and thick,” says Greg. “To us, when you cut corners, you cut the ultimate flavors—and we would never do that. We make all the dough, every sauce from scratch, using Marti’s Sicilian grandmother’s recipes. Those dishes have never changed, but over the years we have evolved to meet popular dietary choices such as gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan.” 

Greg admits the sausage pepperoni is his favorite pizza, he likes it even better drizzled with hot habanero pepper honey. It’s called the honey pie. He says for dessert, he adores the Spumoni Bomba, which is chocolate, pistachio and strawberry gelato coated in chocolate. (Cosi delizioso!)

With corporate holiday parties, family gatherings and Cleveland football games on the docket, he reports their catering business picks up this time of year. 

“We can put together a package to fit every occasion, including appetizers like our famous meatballs, gourmet pizzas, subs, pastas, salads and entrees,” he says.

Year-round Al Fresco Dining

This hidden gem hopes to be jammed every night. Greg and his family decided to get creative and build a tent over the back patio to accommodate more diners.

“With heaters, a brick floor, charming tables and plants, it’s an inviting atmosphere to kick back and enjoy. Perfect for date night or family night,” he says.

Marti’s parents ended up working in the restaurant into their 90s and never slowed down. At 79, Greg says he isn’t going anywhere either, and still works every day.

“When your customers become your friends, and you get to see the look on their faces when they love the food you’ve made them, well, that makes coming to work every day a joy,” he says with a wink.

Geraci’s Restaurant is located at 4127 Erie Street in downtown Willoughby. Hours are Wednesday-Saturday, 4-9 p.m.; Sunday, 3-8 p.m. Call 440-220-6347 for more information and view the menu at GeracisRestaurant.com. Other locations are in University Heights, 2266 Warrensville Center Road; Pepper Pike, 29425 Chagrin Boulevard; Mayfield Village, 6687 Wilson Mills Road; and downtown Cleveland, at 603 Prospect Avenue.