The deliciously fresh faves of the season are available and priced affordably at Station 43 Tavern
By Beth Newcomb
It might seem unthinkable that a “little engine that could” like Solon’s firehouse-themed Station 43 Tavern could so effortlessly hit culinary high notes with seasonal fare that’s as fresh as it is delicious.
After all, a local bar-restaurant doesn’t typically venture far from the traditional burgers, wings and fries offering.
But Station 43 blazes its own trail—and then some, darling.
Chef Brian Swaney’s diverse expertise is backed by the enthusiastic support of co-owners and managing partners Lisa Randazzo-Ross and Anthony Fiorelli.
“Brian is really a master in the kitchen,” Lisa enthuses. “Over the years we’ve become known as much for our fresh seasonal offerings as we have for our Cheers-like atmosphere—a place where everybody knows your name.”
Holding top spots on the current menu are the fresh cavatelli topped with Bolognese sauce and basil, offered at a modest $11.99, and the Chicken Caprese, which is smothered with freshly picked tomatoes, priced at just $12.99.
“We rolled out our summer menu earlier in the season and it includes a dozen brand-new items,” says Lisa.
“The menu is a collaboration between Brian, Anthony, me and the rest of our staff. We also regularly ask for input from our customers. This is genuinely a family-like atmosphere, and everyone has a voice in how things are done.”
With a wraparound patio and porch for alfresco dining, reserved parking spots for motorcycles and family-friendly events like the Antique Fire Truck Show (Sunday, September 15, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.), anytime is a good time to visit Station 43. Enjoy your time outdoors with a “drink-of-the-minute” Mojito, garnished with fresh mint. The patio stays open weather permitting.
“As long as people want to sit outside, we keep the patio open,” Lisa states.
And while the balmy temps prevail, Chef Brian will still be grilling beer, bacon and Swiss cheese brats.
“For that something different, we are making grilled lamb sliders stuffed with tomato, red onion and homemade tzatziki sauce served on a brioche bun,” Chef Brian smiles.
For appetizers, try the Duck Pot Stickers, Fried Pickle Spears, Hushpuppy Shrimp or freshly baked soft Bavarian pretzel served on a hanger, along with beer cheese sauce for dipping. All are priced between $5.99 and $10.99.
“The Duck Pot Stickers are an inventive, delicious twist on the regular pork version,” says Anthony. “And the Hushpuppy Shrimp, which is lightly coated in a fluffy cornmeal breading, adds some southern flair to our menu.”
Standards like steak, ribs, burgers and homemade stuffed peppers are on the menu year-round. But as the fall approaches, creative twists like the just-released BBQ Pork Skins will make their way onto the menu.
“They’re loaded potato skins topped with our homemade pulled pork,” Anthony smiles. “And, priced at just $12.99 for five, they’re amazing.”
You can always count on Station 43 to highlight the season’s big games, and with Browns games on deck, Lisa, Anthony and Chef Brian have come up with more ways to delight fans. A slew of seasonal appetizers and food specials are already in the works. On game days, beer specials include $2 domestic drafts and $3 craft pints. On Monday and Thursday nights during game week, enjoy a Talls for Smalls draft beer special.
Station 43 Tavern is located at 39910 Aurora Road, in Solon. Dining hours are Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Call ahead for seating or reservations at 440-836-0043. Check out the dining and catering menu at Station43Tavern.com. The restaurant offers a free dinner entrée for anyone turning 43 with a valid ID.