Imagine a place where corned beef sandwiches are so big, they could double as pillows.
Welcome to Slyman’s, Cleveland’s temple of deli delights!
Nestled in the heart of Cleveland, Ohio, Slyman’s Restaurant is a time capsule of culinary nostalgia that’s been serving up oversized sandwiches and hearty comfort food since 1964.
This isn’t just any old diner – it’s a bona fide institution that’s been feeding hungry Clevelanders for generations.
As you approach the unassuming brick building on St. Clair Avenue, you’ll spot the iconic red and white sign proudly proclaiming “Slyman’s Restaurant” in bold letters.
It’s like a beacon of hope for empty stomachs, calling out to passersby with the promise of “Cleveland’s BIGGEST Corned Beef Sandwich.”
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Biggest? That’s a bold claim.” But let me tell you, folks, Slyman’s doesn’t mess around when it comes to portion sizes.
These sandwiches are so massive, you might need to unhinge your jaw like a snake to take a bite.
As you step inside, you’re immediately transported back to a simpler time.
The interior is pure, unadulterated retro charm – think vinyl booths, Formica tabletops, and ceiling fans spinning lazily overhead.
It’s like the 1960s never left, and honestly, why would they want to when the food is this good?
The air is thick with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling corned beef and freshly baked rye bread.
It’s enough to make your mouth water and your stomach growl in anticipation.
The bustling atmosphere is a symphony of clattering plates, animated conversations, and the occasional “Oooh” and “Aaah” as diners lay eyes on their gargantuan sandwiches for the first time.
Now, let’s talk about the star of the show – the corned beef sandwich.
This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a work of art, a testament to the power of piled-high deli meat.
Picture this: two slices of fresh rye bread struggling valiantly to contain a mountain of tender, perfectly seasoned corned beef.
It’s like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, but instead of stone, it’s made of deliciousness.
Each bite is a flavor explosion that’ll have you questioning why you ever settled for those sad, flat sandwiches from chain delis.
But Slyman’s isn’t a one-trick pony.
Oh no, their menu is a veritable smorgasbord of deli delights.
From roast beef that’s so tender it practically melts in your mouth, to turkey sandwiches that could feed a small army, there’s something for everyone.
And let’s not forget about the sides.
The potato salad is creamy perfection, the coleslaw is crisp and tangy, and the pickles?
Well, let’s just say they’re so good, you might be tempted to ask for a jar to take home.
Now, I know we came here for the corned beef, but let me let you in on a little secret – the potato pancakes at Slyman’s are the unsung heroes of the menu.
These golden discs of potato perfection are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with flavor.
They’re like regular pancakes’ cooler, more sophisticated cousin who spent a semester abroad and came back with an accent.
Served with a dollop of sour cream and a side of applesauce, these potato pancakes are a religious experience for your taste buds.
You might find yourself having an existential crisis, wondering how you’ve lived this long without them in your life.
But don’t worry, Slyman’s is here to fill that potato pancake-shaped void in your heart.
These potato pancakes are so good, they might just steal the show from the corned beef.
It’s like a culinary plot twist – you came for the sandwich, but you stayed for the pancakes.
They’re the dark horse of the menu, the unexpected MVP that leaves you questioning everything you thought you knew about potatoes.
And here’s the kicker – they pair perfectly with everything on the menu.
It’s like they’re the Swiss Army knife of side dishes, ready to complement any main course you throw at them.
Just be prepared for some serious plate envy from your dining companions when they see these golden beauties arrive at your table.
As you sit there, contemplating whether you can finish your sandwich (spoiler alert: you probably can’t), you’ll notice the wall of fame adorning the restaurant.
It’s a who’s who of Cleveland celebrities and politicians who’ve graced Slyman’s with their presence over the years.
It’s like a deli hall of fame, where the only qualification for entry is the ability to tackle one of their monstrous sandwiches.
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The service at Slyman’s is as no-nonsense as the food.
The waitstaff moves with the efficiency of a well-oiled machine, slinging plates and cracking jokes with equal aplomb.
They’ve seen it all, from first-timers gawking at the size of their sandwiches to regulars who’ve been coming here since before the moon landing.
Speaking of regulars, Slyman’s has a loyal following that would make most restaurants green with envy.
It’s the kind of place where the staff knows your order before you even sit down, and where friendships are forged over shared tables and mutual appreciation for a good deli sandwich.
Now, I know what some of you health-conscious folks out there are thinking.
“But what about my diet?” Well, let me tell you something – diets are like New Year’s resolutions.
They’re made to be broken, especially when faced with the temptation of a Slyman’s sandwich.
Besides, I’m pretty sure carrying one of these sandwiches back to your table counts as a workout.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous (or just really, really hungry), you might want to try the “Slyman’s Challenge.”
It’s not officially on the menu, but legend has it that if you can finish an entire corned beef sandwich, a side of potato pancakes, and a slice of cheesecake in one sitting, you’ll be granted honorary Cleveland citizenship.
Okay, I made that last part up, but you’ll definitely earn the respect and awe of your fellow diners.
Now, let’s talk about the breakfast menu, because Slyman’s isn’t just a lunch and dinner joint.
Oh no, they’re serving up morning delights that’ll make you want to set your alarm clock early.
We’re talking about omelets so fluffy they could double as pillows, and hash browns that are crispy enough to make a potato chip jealous.
And if you’re feeling particularly indulgent, you can even get a corned beef omelet.
It’s like they took everything great about lunch and breakfast and smooshed it together into one glorious, cholesterol-laden package.
It’s the kind of breakfast that’ll have you ready to conquer the world… or at least ready for a nap.
But Slyman’s isn’t just about the food – it’s about the experience.
It’s about sitting elbow to elbow with strangers who quickly become friends over shared stories and shared condiments.
It’s about the satisfaction of tackling a sandwich so big it should come with its own warning label.
It’s about feeling like you’re part of a Cleveland tradition that’s been going strong for over half a century.
And let’s not forget about the takeout option.
Because sometimes, you just want to enjoy your massive sandwich in the comfort of your own home, where no one can judge you for unhinging your jaw like a snake to take a bite.
Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends at your next potluck.
Just be prepared for everyone to suddenly become very interested in where you got that amazing corned beef from.
Now, I know some of you might be thinking, “But what if I’m vegetarian?”
Well, first of all, I admire your commitment to your principles in the face of such meaty temptation.
But fear not, for Slyman’s has options for you too.
Their grilled cheese is a thing of beauty, with melty cheese oozing between perfectly toasted bread.
It’s like a warm, comforting hug for your taste buds.
And let’s not forget about the tuna salad sandwich, which is a refreshing change of pace from all the red meat.
It’s like a little taste of the ocean in the heart of Cleveland.
As you finish your meal (or more likely, pack up half of it for later), you’ll find yourself already planning your next visit.
Because that’s the thing about Slyman’s – it’s not just a meal, it’s an experience.
It’s the kind of place that becomes a part of your personal history, a landmark in your culinary journey.
You’ll find yourself saying things like, “Remember that time we went to Slyman’s and couldn’t move for three hours afterwards?”
Or, “I swear, that sandwich was bigger than my head!”
These are the stories that become part of your family lore, passed down from generation to generation like a cherished heirloom.
Only instead of a piece of jewelry, it’s the memory of a sandwich that could feed a small village.
So, whether you’re a Cleveland native or just passing through, make sure to put Slyman’s on your must-visit list.
It’s more than just a restaurant – it’s a slice of Cleveland history, served up between two pieces of rye bread.
Just remember to bring your appetite… and maybe a wheelbarrow to cart yourself home afterwards.
For more information about Slyman’s Restaurant, including their full menu and hours of operation, be sure to check out their website or Facebook page.
And if you’re trying to find your way to this temple of deli delights, use this map to guide you to sandwich nirvana.
Where: 3106 St Clair Ave NE, Cleveland, OH 44114
Trust me, your taste buds (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with a corned beef sandwich that’s calling my name.