Eden Valley Enterprises -- Lost Restaurants

Some of Cleveland's most famous and notorious restaurants were the nightclubs of Vincent Ave. NE. This street, that ran one block north of Euclid between E 6th and E 9th, was nicknamed "Short Vincent" in the early 1930s by press agent/publicity manager, Mitchell Dexter Plotkin, and it was THE center of Cleveland nightlife in the early to mid-twentieth century. Some of the establishements on this restaurant row included The Theatrical, The Roxy, The 730 Lounge, A. Jacob's Grill Room, Freddie's Cafe, The Frolics and Mickey's Lounge Bar -- just to name a few.

Memories:

Tom Roehl remembers that the Stouffer's on Euclid Ave. had its back door on Short Vincent. The men's room window overlooked that alley. At the Roxy, the girls would come out to the catwalk and relax or "sun" themselves and guys in the restroom would watch them.(September 28, 2018)

Ginny Swift recalls "going to the Theatrical Grill on Short Vincent which was owned by Mushy Wexler, a noted mobster of Cleveland. Mushy was the perfect host as he would circle the room conversing with each table and flicking his Zippo lighter to light your cigarette. It was noted for drawing famous big name entertainers and delicious food. There were always popular athletes, politicians, court personal (sic) and notable Clevelanders dining there. You were always sure to see someone famous eating or just 'schmoozing' at the Theatrical Grill." (October 15, 2019)

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