Where to Eat Before Going to Progressive Field on Opening Day

As most Cleveland Indians fans know, the weather at Progressive Field can be unpredictable in April for opening day, which will fall on April 12 in 2010. Some years it's sunny; other years, such as 2007, the game has been called due to heavy snow. Still, there's just something irresistible about seeing the season's first home game in person. If you're heading to the ballpark, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance. Just remember: Game time is 3:05 p.m.

John Q's Steakhouse
55 Public Square in Cleveland
216-861-0900
JohnQsSteakhouse.com

Located in the heart of downtown Cleveland just a short walk from Progressive Field, the venerable John Q's has been serving quality steaks for more than 30 years. That doesn't mean that the wood-paneled restaurant isn't fun, however. The spot is a mecca for sports fans of all likes on game days. Treat yourself to a peppered steak or a fork-tender fillet, or order one of the best burgers in town, complete with grilled onions, mushrooms and cheese. John Q's also offers a full bar, wines by the glass and a good assortment of beer. Though it won't be set up for opening day, keep in mind that John Q's has one of the best patios in Cleveland for game days later in the season. The doors open for lunch at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday.

Flannery's Pub and Restaurant
323 Prospect Ave. in Cleveland
216-781-7782
Flannerys.com

Just two short blocks away from Progressive Field, Flannery's is part Irish pub, part sports bar. On opening day, they open early and serve breakfast with a live radio broadcast and lots of excitement. The pub-like atmosphere evokes old Dublin, but the spirit on game days is pure Cleveland. Flannery's offers a host of draught beers, both Irish and domestic, and the menu features Celtic favorites, such as Irish stew and colcannon (Irish mashed potatoes with cabbage), as well as American fare, like burgers and meat loaf.

Fat Fish Blue
21 Prospect Ave. in Cleveland
216-875-6000
FatFishBlue.com

Also two blocks from the ballpark, Fat Fish Blue serves up Cajun cooking and blues music. The atmosphere is reminiscent of Mardi Gras and the food is finger-lickin' good. Try the pulled pork sandwich, Big Daddy's gumbo or the Southern fried chicken. Fat Fish serves pretty good burgers, too, and all are accompanied by sweet potato chips. Fat Fish Blue opens for lunch at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday.

Alvies Gateway Grille
2033 Ontario St. in Cleveland
216-771-5322
AlviesRestaurant.com

This is about as far away from a sports bar as you can get. Still, if you're in the mood for a pastrami on rye or classic club sandwich, eat here. They also serve classic bacon-and-egg breakfasts at affordable prices. Located just two blocks away from the ballpark, this is the most authentic New York-style deli that you'll find in downtown Cleveland. The service is efficient, the menu varied and the atmosphere a throwback to the 1960s. It's open from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Zócalo Mexican Grill & Tequileria
2071 E. Fourth St. in Cleveland
216-781-0420
ZocaloCleveland.com

If Mexican food is your idea of pre-game fare, head down Cleveland's East Fourth Street to Zócalo. This cantina, around the corner from Flannery's Pub and about three blocks from the ballpark, offers a variety of traditional -- and not so traditional -- Mexican specialties. Menu highlights include the queso fundido appetizer (a mixture of spicy sausage, tomatoes and peppers topped with a layer of cheese), fajitas and chiles rellenos (poblano peppers stuffed with vegetables, beef and cheese). As you might imagine from the restaurant name, Zócalo serves the largest selection of tequilas in Cleveland. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. daily.