Players on Madison
Cleveland, OH 44107-4326
Phone: (216) 226-5200
- Price:
- $$$
- Hours:
- Sun-Thu 5pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 5pm-11pm
Editorial Review for Players on Madison – by John Hyduk
The Scene
There are neighborhood Italian places all over Cleveland, ones that would be called "Mom's" if they were diners. Cozy and informal, they serve good food, but nothing to write Palermo about. Players, though, is different, with its sleek decor, polished-wood floors and track-lit modern art.
The Food
The menu, while pasta-based, shows more than a little whimsy. Penne al a vodka is a showstopper and the wine list is extensive (try the Rabbit Ridge zinfandel). But most come for the gourmet pizza or linguine with customized toppings--more than 50, including grilled shrimp and chicken, pistachios and smoked salmon. The red onion, pineapple and fresh tomato pizza is highly recommended, along with the sun-dried tomato tapanade. (Tell them to go light on the oil, though.) Although the delicious goat cheese starter is gone, there's now a very good phyllo-wrapped brie offered, as well as some nice crab-and-lobster spring rolls.
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User Reviews for Players on Madison
08/11/2008 Posted by pamdane
Service is Ok, Hostess is pleasant. There is nothing outstanding here. Has a Van Gough atmosphere IMO. Order to table time is atrocious. Appetizers and salads were served at the time meal should have been. No idea how mac and cheese deserves $17 with no sides? It didnt appear to be made with any type of above average cheese. There is nothing "wrong" with the restaurant or service, it just is not my idea of a star rated place.
Pros: Can be seated before 6pm without a wait.
Cons: Close quarters, but due to lighting you dont feel it.
02/16/2007 Posted by proados
Food is NOT that great and the prices are HIGH. Hostess is ANYTHING BUT FRIENDLY. Been there twice. First time for take-out pizza, which was just OK. I don't know why everyone thinks this is so fantastic. Apparently their pizza tastes aren't high. Second time we ate in, encountered the surly hostess once again and had dinner for two, each with a cocktail. Dinner came to $85. That's a price you don't mind paying at a fancy place with great atmosphere and terrific food. Players ain't that place. Would not recommend.
Pros: Close if you live in Lakewood
Cons: Price, Better-than-thou attitude of the hostess, Food is merely OK
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