
Whether the occasion is a romantic getaway with your significant other or a rowdy, light-hearted family gathering, a charcuterie board is a great selection for a picnic. Sliced meats and cheeses, bite-size veggies and finger foods provide a nice variety of items that are perfect for day-long nibbling.
When it's time to start planning, you'll find everything you're looking for and more at these wonderful specialty food and beverage shops around Northeast Ohio.
5600 Highland Rd., Highland Heights, OH 44143
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DiStefano's Authentic Italian Foods has been a Northeast Ohio tradition since 1972. Their imported and domestic cold cuts, ranging from prosciutto to turkey breast, are sliced fresh to order for the highest quality. While you're there, pick up some imported olives and ready-to-eat salads to complement your meal. If you have a larger group, DiStefano's offers party and antipasto trays for a minimum of 10 people. Hours are 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
1455 W. 29th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Native son Jeremy, accompanied by culinary school pals Allie and Kenny, came home to open Larder Delicatessen & Bakery in the historic Ohio City Firehouse building. In their first year, the trio was rewarded with a James Beard Award nomination for Best New Restaurant. True to its name, Larder stocks a sizable variety of meats, cheeses, and other groceries to fill your picnic basket. Save time by purchasing one of Larder's traditional or vegetarian charcuterie boards. Larder is open noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
6610 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103
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The namesake of the Gust Gallucci Company arrived in Cleveland from Faeto, Italy during the early 1900s and found a number of fellow transplants longing for food from their native land. Gust's first "shop" was a large wooden cart, and succeeding locations grew to accommodate the booming business. The Gallucci family still operates the store with its fine selection of deli meats, gourmet cheeses, and Italian and Hungarian specialty items. Hours are 8 a.m - 6 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
4138 Pearl Rd., Cleveland, OH 44109
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How good are the products from Old Brooklyn Cheese Co.? Brides have actually ordered "wedding cakes" made with their cheese wheels. Old Brooklyn makes their own cheeses using non-GMO-certified cow's milk aged for at least 90 days. Their pickled and beer-infused whole mustards were developed for use in-house, but they proved to be so popular that Old Brooklyn began selling them at retail. With 48 hours' notice, Old Brooklyn will prepare one of their specialty charcuterie boards or create one customized to your request. Hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
668 U.S. Hwy. 250 E., Ashland, OH 44805
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How could you resist a name like Grandpa's Cheesebarn? There really was a Grandpa Baum, and the third generation of his family recently entered the business to carry on his tradition. Product selection includes local and imported, smoked and grilling cheeses along with homemade cheese spreads and cheese curds. Grandpa's beef jerky, beef sticks, and summer sausage pair nicely with the cheeses. In 2018, granddaughter Misty Ankerman opened Best of Grandpa's Cheesebarn at 3916 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. in Norton. The original location is open 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday. Hours at Best of Grandpa's are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
55 Kidron Rd., Orrville, OH 44667
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Yes, Shisler's Cheese House is literally a house. John Shisler opened his modestly charming shop in 1958 for the purpose of showcasing local cheeses and gourmet foods to the community and passers-by on the Lincoln Highway. Its success led to the opening of a second location at 1275 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd. in Copley as well as a thriving business shipping products around the world. The third generation of Shislers now runs the shops with the same emphasis on customer service pioneered by their grandfather. Shisler's Orrville location is open daily from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. except Sunday, when doors open at 9 a.m., while the Copley location's hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday.
1979 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Originally opened in 1912, West Side Market is such an institution that it's a popular tourist attraction featured on Travel Channel and Food Network. The market is home to more than 100 vendors selling every food item imaginable, from meats and seafood to spices and nuts. With more than a dozen produce vendors on hand, you'll find the widest assortment of fruits and vegetables direct from the field. While you're there, pick up some crusty breads and other fresh baked goods for your picnic basket. West Side Market is open 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday and Wednesday, 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and now 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday as well.
4641 Broadview Rd., Cleveland, OH 44109
If you're looking for a slick, modern "food shoppe," Ziggy's Produce & Farm Market isn't the place for you. But if you want a modest, family-run store where the focus is on high-quality produce, this is it. Butternut squash, watermelon, apples and other fruits and vegetables come fresh from local Amish growers. Have a sweet tooth? Slip some of Ziggy's imported chocolates and candy into your order. Customers especially appreciate the friendly, helpful service from Ziggy's staff. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday, when Ziggy's closes at 4 p.m.
2271 Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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Owners of The Wine Spot aim to be more than just a purveyor of the finest brands of red and white. Their goal is to be a valued Cleveland Heights neighbor as a gathering place and resource for the local community. The Wine Shop is housed in the former Seitz-Agin Hardware, whose sign is still lovingly displayed above the coolers, and the store serves as the student-run gallery of Cleveland Institute of Art. Store hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday.
6060 Broadview Rd., Parma, OH 44134
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Named Best Wine Shop on Cleveland Hot List, The Little Birdie Wine Nest is one of a trio of businesses that grew out of owner Robin's passions. The Little Birdie is joined by The Morning Owl Coffee Bar and The Balancing Flamingo Yoga Lounge. Robin is a professional sommelier who uses her extensive knowledge to curate the shop's selection of more than 1,000 wines from around the world. Still can't find the right wine? Special orders are cheerfully accepted. The Little Birdie is open 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
What's your favorite picnic spot around Northeast Ohio? Don't worry, we won't tell!

It's summertime and the livin' is easy, especially when enjoying free gifts from top local vendors. Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts are excited to present this month's special treats.
Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati are rich in restaurants, shops, and services that make an area a great place to live. Our agents at Cutler Real Estate have teamed up with LoLo Gifts to offer this monthly program showcasing the best local businesses.
Cincinnati: Wrap, Juice or Smoothie
32 Erie St. S., Massillon, OH 44646
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Want a quick and satisfying meal on the go? Pick up a tasty meal replacement shake from Healthalicious. Choose from dozens of mouthwatering flavors such as cherry cordial, banana nut muffin, and Fruity Pebbles.
You'll have a whole new concept of nutrition after a visit to Healthalicious. The smoothie and juice bar offers an incredible variety of meal replacement shakes, energy drinks, and herbal teas. With more than 100 flavors to choose from, you'll find something to fit any mood or cravings.
330.556.4523
Monday - Friday 6 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
631 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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During summer, higher temperatures and more activity often lead to lighter eating. Stay nourished and refreshed with a wrap, fresh-squeezed juice, or smoothie from Total Juice +.
For more than 20 years, family-run Total Juice + has been committed to educating the community about healthy eating. Located in downtown Cincinnati, the quick-service shop provides convenience without sacrificing quality. The menu of wraps includes vegetarian options, while juices are fresh-squeezed to order and smoothies include natural fruit with no syrup added.
513.784.1666
Monday through Friday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
75 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
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Who says hot dogs are just for baseball games? Stop in at the charmingly-named Stray Dog Cafe for a gourmet grilled dog (beef, turkey, or veggie) dressed up with your choice of toppings and condiments.
Since 2009, Stray Dog Cafe has been on a self-proclaimed mission to "make Akron more Akrony." Originally operated as a street cart, the business moved into a brick-and-mortar spot connected to the Main Library in October 2017. Not a fan of hot dogs? Go with a panini, hot sandwich, wrap, or one of the all-day breakfast items. A wrap with a bottle of water and chips or fruit for $5 is one "Doggie Bag" you'll be happy to carry out.
330.594.5392
Monday through Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
4316 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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When it comes to games, everyone's a kid at heart. Indulge your competitive spirit with a free board game rental at Tabletop Game Café. Choose from a wide range of titles for adults, kids, casual fans, and serious gamers.
At Tabletop Game Café, Life is literally a game. The shop stocks an incredible selection of classic and new board games, including recent release Half Truth, co-designed by legendary trivia champion Ken Jennings. Games can be rented by the week, and a $19 monthly membership lets you take two games at a time. If you stay and play from the collection of free games, keep up your energy with sandwiches, snacks, and drinks from the café menu. Please note that social distancing measures are being observed, including mandatory use of face masks.
614.725.0328
Tuesday through Thursday 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday Noon - 10 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 4 p.m.

So what does it cost to enroll in LoLo Gifts? Absolutely nothing! Cutler Real Estate offers the complimentary program as a way to connect area residents with local small businesses.
Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get started with your free LoLo Gifts.

What is a mother? A best friend, a shoulder to cry on, a compassionate caretaker, a role model, and guide through our toughest moments in life — being a mom involves being everything a son or daughter needs, whenever they need it. Moms, step-moms, mothers-in-law, grandmothers, and maternal figures all deserve recognition and celebration for their profound impact on our lives. This Mother's Day will certainly be different than all others, and while social distancing may prevent us from being together physically, it doesn't have to stop us from showing the women in our lives just how much we care about them. Send the mom in your life a beautiful floral arrangement from one of these florists that conveniently deliver around the Cleveland and Akron areas.
730 S. Arlington St., Akron, OH 44306
Looking for a Mother's Day arrangement that will suit any style mom may have? Look no further than Robinson Florist. Not only will they match you with a bouquet that is bright and beautiful, but they will also deliver it to any doorstep across the nation. No matter if your mom lives in downtown Akron or all the way in San Jose, California, Robinson Florist is determined to deliver the perfect Mother's Day gift to your mom wherever she may be.
1455 W. 29th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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This florist in the heart of historic Cleveland creates upscale floral arrangements that exceed expectations. Urban Orchid specializes in crafting bouquets and floral designs for special events such as weddings which means your everyday order will be made with the same talent and stunning beauty that men and women desire for the most important days of their lives. With one location in Ohio City and another in Little Italy, they'll send your mom a completely customized creation that will leave her breathless.
17458 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111
Why can you unquestionably trust Al Wilhelmy Flowers with your Mother's Day gift? They've been the reliable, professional florists that Cleveland men and women have counted on for over 140 years! Al Wilhelmy Flowers will go the extra mile to make sure your mother only receives the finest floral arrangement. With delivery available across the United States, Canada, and other international locations, Al Wilhelmy will be your first choice for flowers for every occasion.
11520 Buckeye Rd., Cleveland, OH 44104
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The best and freshest flowers in Cleveland are available from Orban's Fruit & Flowers. Their popular bouquets, fruits, and gourmet baskets can include everything from roses and pineapples to roses and champagne. Please keep in mind that Orban's is functioning with a limited staff to prioritize the health and safety of their employees so consider making your order as soon as possible or opting for a delivery date other than Mother's Day Sunday.
1843 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44301
With sweet gifts and fragrant flowers readily available, shopping for a Mother's Day gift is effortless with Colonial Florists. Unlike other services that may deliver flowers in a box — sometimes causing the arrangement to become damaged during shipping — Colonial Florists always create your arrangement by hand and deliver it anywhere in the United States personally. When you choose Colonial Florists for a Mother's Day gift, you're ensuring that your mom receives an arrangement that's as beautiful and cared for as she is.
2132 Noble Rd., East Cleveland, OH 44112

Show you care even if you can't be there with Mother's Day flowers from Nela Florist. Since 1939, Nela Florists has delivered thousands of gorgeous arrangements to mothers and grandmothers around the city. They offer a wide variety of bouquets for a range of prices, including their special Deal of the Day bouquets that are perfect for sons or daughters who want to pick out the perfect Mother's Day gift on a tight budget.
110 Merz Blvd., Akron, OH 44333
Offering free delivery for local online orders, Pam's Posies guarantees your complete satisfaction with all of their florist-designed and hand-delivered arrangements. If you're not sure which flowers would be best for your mom, choose the Florist's Choice Bouquet. One of their talented florists will create a custom arrangement with the freshest flowers available with a vase included.
11519 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111

Don't worry if you don't have a green thumb — the talented staff at Green Thumb Florist have the talents necessary to create an unforgettable Mother's Day arrangement. Although they have a number of excellent Mother's Day bouquets ready for delivery, we suggest looking at their "Flowers in a Gift" options as well. These bouquets come in a number of adorable vase designs such as water pitchers, smiley-faced mugs, and even a cute terrarium. Not only will you give mom a beautiful bouquet, but you'll also gift her a great vase that she can use again and again.
1099 Grant St., Akron, OH 44301
It's all about mom at Amedeo's Florist this month, and they're ready to help you show your love and appreciation to the maternal figure in your life! This local florist knows exactly how to say "Thank you for everything" with an amazing floral arrangement — they've been doing so for over 70 Mother's Days! Make this Mother's Day extra special with one of their colorful bouquets that can be delivered right to your mom's doorstep.
What's your favorite flower for Mother's Day? Let us know in the comments below!

With many businesses in Northeast Ohio shut down, and "social distancing" in full effect, it's time to start getting creative about finding things to do. Productive hobbies are becoming more popular, and taking up knitting is a great choice.
If this appeals to you, then you'll be glad to know that there are plenty of ways you can learn to knit online. Once you're ready, you can support the local area knitting shops that so desperately need your business right now. Here are some tips for getting started and a few of our favorite stores in Northeast Ohio and beyond.
There are plenty of online resources where you can learn to knit. Start by checking out some YouTube channels, like AllFreeKnitting or Craftsy Knitting. If you prefer a more structured class style, you may want to take a look at the classes on websites like SkillShare or Instructables.
Once you've got the basics down, you'll want to visit the websites for some of the area's best knitting stores. Here are a few of our favorite Ohio stores where you can shop for all of your knitting needs.
1387 Sloane Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107
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River Colors Studio carries a huge selection of gorgeous yarn. They also have all the materials you'll need to start your knitting projects including needles, hooks, accessories.
Check out their selection of patterns, including some great free ones that are perfect for beginners. You may also want to order a few publications, like Pom Pom Quarterly and Mason-Dixon Field Guides. These are a great way to learn more about your new hobby.
100 North Main St. Suite 230, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
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A fun, boutique-style shop, The Artful Yarn carries an internationally-curated selection of yarns. They currently offer curbside pick-up, limited-distance delivery, and 2-day USPS shipping. You can order over the phone and even video chat via FaceTime. They have some inventory online and will be expanding their online offerings very soon.
On March 30th, they're starting a "Magical Mystery Knit" that you can join right from the comfort of your home. Sign up for their email list or follow them on social media so you can keep up on all the latest news and updates.
129 Portage Trail, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
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Harps & Thistles Yarn Emporium carries an eclectic selection of yarns and prides itself in offering reasonable prices. You'll love browsing through their gorgeous yarns, and you can also find all of the needles, hooks, bags, and accessories you need.
If you're a beginner, check out the "Yharma's Basement Clearance" section. This is a great way to stock up on supplies without breaking the bank.
12620 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44120
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You'll find everything you need to get creative with your knitting projects at Fine Points. They specialize in unique yarns and offer kits that have all the materials you need to make a specific project. They also carry needles and accessories, patterns, books, jewelry, and more.
15708 Lorain Ave, Cleveland, OH 44111
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Destination Yarn is an independent shop that hand-dyes their yarn onsite. It's easy to lose yourself in their website, where you can shop by yarn type, dye technique, or collection. They also sell lots of great kits for sweaters, shawls, and pullovers and fun gifts for other knitting-lovers in your life.
13572 Chillicothe Road, Novelty, OH 44072
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Fiber Addiction carries a wide variety of brand-name yarns including Euro, Berroco, and Cascade. They also offer products from indie dyer Cornbread & Honey. In response to recent events, they're offering individual appointments for those who want to come shop in person, or you can shop online. In addition to yarn, they also carry a fun selection of bags, books, notions, needles, and hooks.
You can get some great deals right now, including free shipping through April 15th. They also offer pick-up orders for those who live nearby.
Other shops around Ohio worth checking out online:
1200 Rock Road, Mansfield, OH 44903
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Do you want to make a truly luxurious knitting project? If so, then you'll want to pay a visit to Alpaca Meadows' website. These Ohio residents have a happy herd of alpacas that provide a limited amount of fiber each year. It's either processed on-site or by a local mill. Alpaca yarn is incredibly soft. It's also warm, comfortable, durable, hypoallergenic.
If you see something you like, make sure to stock up, because once it's gone, it's gone. Not sure what to do with alpaca yarn? Take a look at some of their beautiful patterns as well!
1 N. Main St., Mt Vernon, OH 43050
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The Makery also carries a wide selection of hand-dyed, hand-spun yarns and fair trade fiber. You can choose from a variety of materials, including alpaca, cotton, bamboo, linen, silk, wool, and more. They also carry needles, hooks, and notions.
Need some inspiration? Check out some of their super-cool books with many interesting ideas. They also carry fun craft kits designed especially for kids, so if you're home-schooling right you, you'll definitely want to check this out as well.
35 S. High Street in Dublin, Ohio 43017
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For a wide selection of yarn at a variety of price points, as well as needles, buttons, and books, you'll definitely want to take a look at Knitting Temptations' website. They carry many popular brands and you can keep yourself on-budget by shopping by price range.
Don't have a ton of money to spend right now? Create an account and build a wish list! This way, when you're ready to move on to future projects, you'll already have your shopping list ready!
217 South B St., Hamilton, OH 45013
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Lambikin's Hideaway is a local yarn store that prides itself on offering amazing customer service, fair prices, and a huge selection of yarn. Here you'll find a variety of options including lace, fingering, sport, DK, worsted, bulky, and super bulky yarn. While you're on the website, don't forget to subscribe to their newsletter to stay in the loop about their latest classes, promotions, and specials.
What kind of knitting project are you looking forward to trying first?

Who says candy is just for special occasions? Thanks to February's "sweet" deals from Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts, every day can be Valentine's Day!
Each month, our agents at Cutler Real Estate join LoLo to spotlight the amazing variety of shops, restaurants, and services in the area. Satisfy your sweet tooth as you explore these delightful candy and chocolate shops around Northeast Ohio, Cincinnati, and Columbus.
Canton: Box of Chocolates and Bag of Chocolate Pretzel Rods
Akron: Peanut Brittle, Cashew Brittle, and Bag of Butter Mints
6656 Wise Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
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Chocolate is so perfect by itself that pairing it with savory and salty flavors takes them to a new level. Try it for yourself with a free box of chocolates and bag of chocolate pretzel rods from Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates.
About Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates
The Anastas family continues to uphold the high standards of quality and customer service set by their father when he opened his eponymous chocolate shop in 1984. In addition to their Signature Series of gourmet chocolates, truffles, and caramels, Anastasiades carries fresh roasted cashews, fancy mixed nuts, and praline pecans.
Contact and Hours
330.494.5500
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
129 W. Elder St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Chocolate truffles are delicate treats that hide a delicious center of peanut butter, nuts, and sometimes even more chocolate! Visit Maverick Chocolate Co. for three luscious truffles made with their award-winning, bean-to-bar chocolate.
About Maverick Chocolate Co.
In 2014, founder Paul Picton chose the name "Maverick" for his new business to symbolize his ethic of questioning the status quo and taking a stand. Today Paul's wife and two sons are also involved in running Maverick, which uses ethically-sourced cacao beans to create small batches of chocolate for superior quality.
Contact and Hours
Findlay Market
513.381.0561
Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
931 High Grove Blvd., Akron, OH 44312
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Do you prefer candy that has a satisfying crunch, or the kind that melts in your mouth? With February's gift from Arnold's Candies Inc., you don't have to choose! Enjoy the varied but equally delicious textures of peanut brittle, cashew brittle, and butter mints.
About Arnold's Candies Inc.
Arnold's has been an Akron institution since 1953. Their candies are still made by hand, combining classic techniques with the finest ingredients. The retail shop was recently joined by an online store so you can share Arnold's iconic peanut brittle and other goodies with family and friends around the country.
Contact and Hours
330.733.4022
Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Vine St. and N. Wall, Columbus, OH 43214
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MMELO calls itself a confectionary to honor the traditional candy-making methods of using basic, all-natural ingredients to create something special. Sample one of MMELO's beautiful chocolate bars and savor the rich, complex flavors that come from simple, honest craftsmanship.
About MMELO Boutique Confections
After living in Barcelona for 12 years, founder Michelle Allen and husband Paul decided to bring a touch of Europe to Michelle's hometown of Columbus. MMELO is modeled after a European confectionary café, serving as a community gathering place where you can visit with friends, read, work, study, or just sit back and sip on a cappuccino. Pair your gourmet coffee drink with one of MMELO's exquisite chocolates or fresh-baked goods such as muffins, tarts, financiers, Danishes, and croissants.
Contact and Hours
614.372.5744
Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 5 p.m.

Cutler Real Estate offers the LoLo Gifts program free of charge to help people discover the unique local businesses that make Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati such great places to live. New gifts arrive every month.
Want to learn more? Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent today.