Alea is a modern, small, 33-seat Mediterranean-inspired restaurant built around a wood-fired hearth in the center of Ohio City. If you pull up a chair at the L-shaped bar of the craft-cement-chic eatery in Hingetown, you’ll have a front-row seat to the heated exchanges. It is the center of the establishment, where chef and owner Athan Zarnas coaxes practically everything into flame-induced smoky delight. A typical side dish is transformed into an unexpected star during cooking, full of stunning flavors and wonderful textures.

The server will not only welcome you back after a week away but will also remember what you had to drink. The service was polished, professional, engaged, and engaging. Alea has prospered as a result of a menu that is extremely robust and a committed team. The tasting menu-only restaurant offers a variety of constantly changing (and always intriguing) alternatives. A delicious variation of grilled oyster and lamb with a strong Korean flavor is featured in one recent selection. Be ready for the unexpected.

With a nearly comprehensive list of natural, organic, biodynamic, and sustainable options, Alea has one of the greatest alternative wine menus in the area. Along with a few well-chosen beers and superb craft drinks. Non-alcoholic options include the Fentimans Curiosity Cola, Q Ginger Beer, and Alta Amaro Soda. Coffees and teas are also available.