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- ☕ Birdtown Brewing and Big Food News
☕ Birdtown Brewing and Big Food News
Plus, Geiger's Customer Appreciation Day and what's a free trade zone?
Good morning, Buzz Nation.
I’m here to tell you there’s a first time for everything. Like 2026 being the year I finally start making my bed.
With Arbor Day coming up, I want to personally congratulate North Ridgeville for officially earning Tree City USA status!
Dreams do come true.
Today on The Buzz:
Birdtown Brewing (finally) opening
Brite Winter Fest
Borocco bids adieu
Have a Westside weekend,
—The Briggses
Community Blend
New Brew 📍 Lakewood
[Photo: Birdtown Brewing Facebook]
Some of the best craft beers ferment for months. This Birdtown Brewery has been fermenting for 12 years—and it looks like it will be worth the wait.
Twelve years after the Lakewood Planning Commission first approved the conversion of St. Gregory the Theologian into Birdtown Brewing, the long-awaited project is finally ready to tap the kegs this spring. (Original ETA: summer 2015.)
The team says they wanted to take their time — and like Buddhist monks who create masterpieces by moving one grain of sand at a time — they were very intentional.
The 100-year-old Byzantine Gothic Revival church now seats 260 guests across multiple levels and a new patio. Inside, it’s part cathedral, part Irish pub:
A 32-foot live-edge bartop anchors the main floor
Brewing equipment from Deutsche Beverage (installed back in 2017) sits front and center in the former sanctuary
Geraci’s Pizza will be serving up thick-cut pepperoni pies
Tables downstairs are crafted from the old Lakewood High gym floor
Opening target: late March or early April. Truthfully, we’re excited. It feels like exactly what Madison Ave. has been missing.
Sometimes the best brews just take a little longer to ferment. 🍺
Please…not Hola Tacos 📍 Lakewood
Jodie walked into the living room the other day with a genuinely panicked look on her face.
Her first thought? Hola Tacos.
“You can take my arepas,” she said, dead serious, “but you better not take my Hola Tacos.”
Here’s what’s happening: The Vergara family has decided to close Borrocco’s Lakewood location. The Crocker Park location is temporarily paused, and the East Side spot will remain open. Hola Tacos is also hitting pause until spring.
From what we understand, this doesn’t appear to be a business-driven decision as much as a family health and well-being one — which, frankly, is bigger than any menu item.
We’re wishing the Vergara family all the best and hoping this pain is temporary.
Because the Westside can handle a lot.
But losing tacos and arepas long-term? That might test us.
Mark Your Calendars
From our friends at Geiger’s
Geiger’s has been the Westside’s go-to place for all things outdoor sports and apparel. They are throwing their famous customer appreciation day at Peek’n Peak on Sunday, March 1.
Stop into the Lakewood Geiger’s to grab a coupon (Limit 4 per family) that gets you:
$30 lift ticket
Free ski demo
Complimentary snacks and refreshments, and more
See you on the slopes!
Real Estate & Housing
Ohio City’s Building Something
Tinnerman Lofts 2048 Fulton [Photo: Realtor.com]
Over the last decade or so, Ohio City and West 25th have slowly and steadily become a popular place to move, launch a cool new restaurant, or have a pop-up EDM show in a donut shop.
A 2024 policy shift might slow its roll.
In 2024, Cleveland reduced its 15-year residential tax abatement in “market-rate” neighborhoods like Ohio City from 100% to 85%.
Translation: developers now pay more property tax upfront.
Here’s what’s moving:
Infill homes are still rising.
On Bailey Avenue, Knez Homes built two three-bedroom houses with garages and first-floor offices. One is already sold.
On West 28th Street, Knez added a modern two-bedroom home on a tight lot (zoning variance required).
Big apartments are pushing ahead.
The 109-unit Ambler Apartments at 2166 W. 26th is under construction.
It’s a $29 million project backed by up to $20 million in Port of Cleveland bonds.
Developers: Dan Whalen and Luke Palmisano, with Geis Companies building.
Foundations are already visible from West 26th and Monroe.
Ohio City’s rebuild didn’t stall — it just got more selective, more strategic, and a little trickier.
Westside Pour Over
⚠️ North Ridgeville - After 16-year-old Violet Gustafson was killed crossing Lorain Road last year, North Ridgeville officials approved a plan to add two crosswalks and improve lighting and signage at the Lorain and Cook intersection to enhance pedestrian safety.
🛒 North Olmsted - A grocery store might be coming to the Great Northern Mall thanks to a Canadian Automotive group. (Cleveland.com)
🛍️ Lorain - Trademark Global is a warehouse operating as Lorain County’s first free trade zone. The FTZ helps U.S. companies defer tariff payments placed on goods purchased from other countries. (The Chronicle)
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🍽️ Business & Restaurant News
Atmos plans to do more than drip 📍 Gordon Square
Like upgrading from drip to espresso, this Gordon Square spot is planning to do things differently.
After two years of planning, Zach Burkhart is launching Atmos Coffee (5509 Detroit Ave.) in Gordon Square, aiming to create a true “third space” — part workspace, part hangout.
What stands out:
A Bellwether electric roaster that turns green beans into fresh batches on-site.
Launch blend: Red Shift (Ethiopian + Brazilian beans).
Menu basics: drip, espresso, cortados — plus pistachio matcha and tiramisu lattes.
Belgian waffles made in-house (because the smell matters).
Atmos opens daily, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Full Story from Doug Trattner.
Cedar Point
I know we’re a long way from opening day of Cedar Point, but this little nibble of fromage should get you excited for Summer.
[Photo: Cedar Point]
Via X.com, Cedar Point sent out some photos of the first roller coaster to begin testing for the 2026 season! The Wild Mouse is the first ride to get fresh tracks for the season that officially opens May 9.
What’s Happening, Westsiders?
👨👩👧👦=Family Friendly
Friday, February 20
Cleveland Tattoo Arts Festival – Cleveland Convention Center, Downtown | Runs through Sunday
A weekend where commitment issues take a backseat. Live tattooing, artists from everywhere, and enough inspiration to make you text, “Should I do it?” Ink responsibly
👨👩👧👦Third Friday Art Walk – 78th Street Studios, Battery Park | 5–9 PM
Studios open, galleries buzzing, and dozens of guest artisans filling the halls. Wander the maze, grab a bite, and make a night of it.
Pizza Night Baking Class – Annie’s Signature Sweets, Berea | 6–9 PM
Flour on your hands, sauce on your shirt, heart full of love. You’ll make everything from scratch and leave with pizza you can proudly say you built yourself. Dough it yourself
Pączki Party: Pączki & Wine Pairing Event – Little Birdie Wine Nest, Parma | 6:30 PM
Powdered sugar meets perfectly paired pours. Come for the pączki, stay because you’re on your third wine sample and forgot to take the dog out. Filled with joy
Mon Chéri: A Wine + Vinyl Night – La Cave Du Vin, Tremont | 8 PM–12 AM
Dim lights, French wine, and DJs spinning vinyl like it’s a love language. Dress cute, pretend you only listen to obscure soul, and lean into the vibe. Press play
Saturday, February 21
February Warehouse Sale – Bliss Home Market, Avon | 8 AM–1 PM
A once-a-month warehouse sale that feels like a treasure hunt for designer-inspired furniture and décor. Come with measurements, leave with a find you’ll pretend you discovered “by accident.”
3rd Annual Gifts of Love Craft Show – Rocky River Memorial Hall | 9 AM–2 PM
Handmade goods, cozy décor, baked treats, and thoughtful gifts fill the hall for a feel-good shopping stop. Valentine’s may be over, but supporting local never is.
The Closet Edit: Galentine’s Edition – The Matriarchy, Hingetown | 1–4 PM
A curated clothing swap designed to refresh your wardrobe sustainably. Bring quality pieces, leave with “new-to-you” favorites, and enjoy a stylish afternoon out. Swap smart
Kittens & Mittens Fundraiser – Backstage Bar, West Park | 2–5 PM
An afternoon of drinks, raffles, and community support for a good cause. Show up, give back, and maybe win something fun along the way. Paws for a cause
👨👩👧👦Brite Winter 2026 – Waterloo Arts District | 2–11 PM
Cleveland’s signature winter music fest returns with live bands, art installations, and bundled-up crowds who know how to do cold weather right. Bundle up
A Night for Babies: Prom Edition – Tenk West Bank, The Flats | 7 PM
A prom-inspired evening supporting NICU families, complete with dancing, sparkle, and a reason to dress up. Relive the magic — this time for a meaningful cause. Dress to impress
PILATES x PLUNGE #003 – Revive Spa & Yoga Collective, Lakewood | 7–8:30 PM
A full-body wellness night pairing Pilates with a refreshing cold plunge. Move, reset, and leave feeling just slightly braver than when you walked in. Take the plunge
Sunday, February 22
United We Brunch 2026 – The Madison, E. 55th & Payne | 11 AM-2 PM
Cleveland Magazine and Scene bring together some of the city’s best restaurants for a tasting-style brunch celebration. Discover new favorites, and pretend you’re a brunch critic. Brunch it up
Fleetwood Mac Tribute Brunch with Rumours – Music Box Supper Club, The Flats | 12 PM
Brunch meets “Dreams” with a live Fleetwood Mac tribute set to your mimosas. Come ready to sing along and pretend you’re in your Stevie Nicks era.
Star Wars Trivia – Great Lakes Brewing Co., Ohio City | 12 PM
Put your Jedi knowledge to the test over pints and pub fare. From deep cuts to classic lines, this one’s for fans who know their Wookiees from their droids.
Drag Brunch & Bingo – BrewDog Cleveland, The Flats | 12–3 PM
High-energy drag performances meet bingo rounds and brunch cocktails. Expect laughs, sparkle, and a crowd that came to have fun. Dab and slay
The Unteachables Live! PTO Tour – Funny Bone, The Flats | 2 PM
A crew of stand-up comics who also happen to be teachers take the stage for an uncensored afternoon of classroom chaos and real-life stories. Detention has never been this funny. Class dismissed
Sip, Sparkle & Create – Market Avenue Wine Bar, Ohio City | 2–3:30 PM
An artsy afternoon of resin charm-making paired with a drink and a cozy wine bar backdrop. Leave with something sparkly and a little creative glow. Add some shine
Conditions |
|---|
Sunrise: 7:15 AM |
Sunset: 6:07 PM |
Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent 🌒 |
🎷 Live Entertainment
Friday
Absolute Intense Wrestling: Cultivate 2 | Mahall’s, Lakewood 6:30 PM
Heated Rivalry Dance Party | Mahall’s, Lakewood 7 PM
Richfield Circus | Front Street Social, Berea 7 PM
Kameron Marlowe Live On Tour | Globe Iron, Flats 7 PM
Disco Interno | The Local, Strongsville 7 PM
The Heart of Robin Hood | Hanna Theatre, Playhouse 7:30 PM
Suffs | Connor Palace, Playhouse 7:30 PM
Motown & More with Nitebridge | Music Box CH, Flats 7:30 PM
Drag Bingo with Veranda L'Ni & Friends | Music Box SC, Flats 7:30 PM
Rellick | Late Braces | Coda, 8 PM
Emo Night Karaoke | The Winchester, Lakewood 8 PM
Foundation Room Presents Quenton Rubin | House of Blues, Cleveland 8 PM
The Alton Merrell Trio | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 8 PM
Rumours | Time Warp Bar, Westlake 9 PM
Live & Local Featuring Austin Walkin' Cane | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
Presence | Backstage Bar, Westpark 9 PM
Jazz Jam Session | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 10 PM
YeEDM Friday: Jimmy Gross | Welcome to the Farm, Flats 10 PM
Saturday
Black History Month Celebration | Rock Hall, Cleveland 10 AM
Boaterhead's Second Annual Day Drinking to Remember 2026 | The Local, Strongsville 11 AM
Suffs | Connor Palace, Playhouse 1:30 PM & 7:30 PM
The Heart of Robin Hood | Hanna Theatre, Playhouse 1:30 & 7:30 PM
Bob Seger Tribute Featuring Against The Wind | Music Box CH, Flats 7 PM
Lover: An All Taylor Swift Dance Party | Mahall’s, Lakewood 7 PM
Heated Rivalry Dance Party | Mahall’s, Lakewood 7 PM
Free Movie Night: Joe Cocker – Mad Dogs & Englishmen | Music Box SC, Flats 7:30 PM
Dan Wall Trio | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 8 PM
Rrriot! | The Headtrips | Blind Boxing | Coda, 8 PM
Pet the Cougar | Time Warp Bar, Westlake 9 PM
Dark Wave Dance Cave: Strange Love | The Winchester, Lakewood 9 PM
Live & Local Featuring Diana Chittester | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
Colors Presents R&B Only Live | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
Foundation Room Presents House Sessions | House of Blues, Cleveland 9 PM
The Drop Downs | Backstage Bar, Westpark 9 PM
Tyler Reid | Welcome to the Farm, Flats 10 PM
Sunday
Elton John Tribute Brunch with Tommy Lee Thompson | Music Box SC, Flats 12 PM
Fleetwood Mac Tribute Brunch with Rumours | Music Box SC, Flats 12 PM
Suffs | Connor Palace, Playhouse 1 PM & 6:30 PM
The Heart of Robin Hood | Hanna Theatre, Playhouse 3 PM
The Pat Bianchi Organ Trio (Ft. Troy Roberts and Colin Stranahan) | The Bop Stop, Cleveland 7 PM
Gogol Bordello | House of Blues, Cleveland 7 PM
Masters of Hawaiian Music: George Kahumoku Jr, Led Kaapana, & Sonny Lim | Music Box SC, Flats 7 PM
The Local Voice | The Local, Strongsville 7 PM
Weather
Friday
54 🌡️ 33 | 🌧️ | 40% | 💨 S 16-23 mph
Saturday
40 🌡️ 31 | ⛅🌧️ | 50% | 💨 W 9-11 mph
Sunday
37 🌡️ 27 | 🌨️ | 90% | 💨 W 7-13 mph
Monday
32 🌡️ 21 | ⛅ | 50% | 💨 NW 13-16
🧊 Lake Erie is 87.81% frozen
That’s it for today, Westsiders.
Have a great weekend,
—The Briggses