The seasonal menu at Station 43 is ablaze in heated buzz, but there are fresh new changes in the works
By Beth Newcomb
He had me at Pork Tacos.
That’s just one of the fresh new items on Station 43’s already red-hot seasonal menu, created by Chef Brian Swaney. But wait, there’s more. Dive into the Seafood Pizza and prepare to immerse yourself in the rich flavors of the sea—topped with cheese, of course.
“We change our menu seasonally to keep things interesting for our guests,” says Anthony Fiorelli, managing part owner of the restaurant.
“But instead of offering traditional pub food, we’ve been blazing new trails since we opened in 2006. Our menu is bursting with fresh flavors, and most of it is comfort food—not pub food.”
In fact, Station 43 has become known as much for its food as its comfortable, Cheers-like atmosphere. “We take the food portion of our business very seriously,” says Lisa Ross, the other half of the owner/management team.
“People love our firehouse theme and the creative cocktails we serve, but Chef Brian spends hours creating our seasonal menus. Our signature is comfort food, but he regularly puts a spin on those favorites so they’re uniquely ours.”
A perfect example is the aforementioned Seafood Pizza. Everybody is familiar with the idea of topping a pie with shrimp or some other oceanic delicacy, but Station 43’s seafood pie is a study in to-die-for deliciousness. Topped with shrimp, crab, spinach and tomatoes resting on a blanket of cheesy Alfredo sauce, this pie, offered at $14.99, is a must.
The Pork Tacos, crafted from house-cooked pork with homemade corn salsa and a garnish of pickled onions, are already a bona fide classic. You get three with every order, for just $8.99.
But to start your meal, the Reuben Balls, which are bursting with authentic flavor, include sauerkraut and corned beef wrapped in a tasty breaded roll then deep fried to secure all the goodness inside. Served with a side of thousand island dressing, $6.99 will get you seven to nosh on.
Chicken and waffles anyone? Uh, yeah. This classic includes a breast, thigh, leg and wing of honey-dipped chicken, served over waffles with maple syrup. Enjoy this southern classic for just $14.99.
Chef Brian flexes his creative muscle with the B’s Burger. “It’s named after him because he puts his own twist on the Roman burger,” Lisa smiles. For $11.99, you’ll get a big meaty burger topped with salami, mozzarella, lettuce, tomato, red onion, mayo and balsamic dressing along with your choice of side.
Listed here is, of course, just a fraction of the delicious new offerings on the Station 43 fall menu. Anthony says there’s a lot more to enjoy, like the Puff Battered Walleye, for $17.99, and the Homemade Chicken Pot Pie, for $15.99.
But the best part about visiting the place where everybody knows your name is that in addition to the new seasonal menu favorites, there’s a daily special to delight your taste buds. Or you can visit for one of the signature seasonal drinks, like the Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martini, and simply relax and enjoy the game.
“We show all of the big games, including all the games from local teams,” Lisa says. “So, visit us anytime during the winter for a delicious meal, a relaxing cocktail, and the opportunity to connect with a warm and friendly bunch of people.”
A Fiery New Look
Because Station 43 is constantly working to be the best version of itself that it can be, Lisa and Anthony boldly put the restaurant on hiatus until January 20, when the doors will re-open and customers will be treated to a fresh new look.
“We didn’t do anything too dramatic, but we did make some changes we think our guests will love,” Lisa says.
Gleaming new hardwood floors have replaced the old ones and restrooms have been upgraded. Fresh paint touches abound throughout. Your favorite perch at the bar is still available, but now you can hang out with the rest of the Cheers-like regulars on a brand-new seat. Dining chairs have also been replaced.
“We’re preparing for the next decade and beyond,” Anthony inserts. “Our commitment to the community and our valued customers continues to hold top honors.”
It’s located at 39910 Aurora Road, in Solon. Dining hours are Sunday through Thursday, from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, from 11 a.m.-11 p.m. The phone number is 440-836-0043 and you can call ahead for seating or reservations. The web address is Station43Tavern.com where you’ll find dining and catering menus. Like the restaurant on Facebook at Station 43 Tavern. The restaurant offers free Wi-Fi and a free dinner entrée to anyone turning 43 with a valid I.D.