At age the of 20, Chef Rafael moved with his wife to Cleveland, Ohio. His goal was to continue his Italian culinary skills which he acquired in the region of Verona, Italy.Chef Rafael was introduced to the restaurant industry at a very young age. His grandmother was very well known for her home-cooked dishes. She loved having her grandson with her as she cooked meals as soon as he was able to walk. He was six years old when he first learned how to make homemade pasta and, by age 14, he was ready to embark on his own culinary journey. His first stop was Verona, Italy,which was the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The romantic and rich architectural heritage of Verona was matched by the great culinary venues of that city and Chef Rafael's experience and skills grew exponentially. Three years later, Chef Rafael traveled to Belgium and France where he then experienced cooking French cuisine as well.
Acqua Di Dea, part of the award-winning Jola Eat Global Restaurant Group, opened its third location in 2021 and quickly became one of the best restaurants in Cleveland, serving fresh seafood and authentic Italian dishes in the heart of downtown Cleveland. Whether you're looking for romantic restaurants in Cleveland, best seafood restaurant near you, or a top-rated Italian restaurant in Cleveland City, our kitchen brings bold flavors and a warm atmosphere to every table. Proudly ranked among the best restaurants in downtown Cleveland, we’re your go-to spot for lunch, dinner, and special occasions. Join us for the best Italian seafood in Cleveland, hand-crafted pasta, and unforgettable fine dining near you. Among Cleveland restaurants, we stand out for our commitment to excellence, offering fresh and elevated fine dinging experience consistently placing us among the best restaurants in Cleveland.For private events contact ashley.mcnulty@jolaeatglobal.com
Venetian Born Chef Alberto Leandri prepares flavors from home for Clevelanders at this upscale, modern Italian restaurant. The menu will feature handmade pastas, fresh fish and seafood, fine meats, and artisan pastries and gelato.
Offering a curated selection of wines, classic cocktails, local beers, as well as delicious non-alcoholic options. Dishes are thoughtfully chosen, and a small selection of desserts will also be available nightly.“We built Gather to be a place where we wanted to hang out. We wanted it to feel upscale and comfortable simultaneously” - Matt and Julie Barnes
