Bites Nearby Classic: Station 43 Tavern

, located on Route 43 in Solon, is one hot spot.

Who should know better than two firemen?

Mike Ruth and Bob Shimits started this tavern in 2006. With the help of partners, they renovated the building, searched for fire-related memorabilia and came up with a menu and atmosphere to appeal to families and bar patrons alike. The subsequent expansions to the building reflected their success.

As you walk in, the clink of glassware, the hum of people talking and joking mix with the delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen. As you look around you’ll see photographs of Solon spanning many years, uniforms, patches, helmets and other fire-related items covering the walls and ceiling. The general dining area is on the left, with a large “U” shaped bar and additional seating on the right. If the room doesn’t capture your attention, then the new large-screen TVs will. Although the atmosphere is great, people come for the food and drink. The menu is full of hearty standards and Station 43 specials.

Starters include homemade potato skins, “43” spring rolls  and the Decision Maker (a platter full of goodies). Wings, like some other starters, can be a meal in themselves. They are tossed in a variety of sauces from Firehouse Hot to Cajun Dust, or served plain with celery sticks and ranch dressing.

Steaks, filets, Firehouse and St. Louis-style ribs compete with pasta primavera, linguine and chicken parmesan for your dinner choice, while beer-battered Lake Erie Perch and shrimp dinners round out the seafood options.

Station 43’s choices would not be complete without burgers and sandwiches. The popular Station Burger shares the menu with other favorites such as the Charlie Boy and Sicilian Burger. You can also order breaded sole, meatball subs and  corned beef on rye. Comfort food is at its best with the fried baloney sandwich. Pizza is another option. Traditional toppings are offered, along with suggested combinations from the chefs.

Salads are not to be overlooked. They can be a meal or a great accompaniment to other food.

If  you have any room left, or want to start out with something sweet, then “Cheesecake Factory” cheesecake, fried Italian doughnuts or chocolate cake should take care of your sweet tooth.

There is always something going on. Daily specials, happy hour, live music, holiday celebrations keep bringing patrons back time after time. They agree, Station 43 is the place to be.