Walk into the DoubleTree by Hilton on West Market Street and you’ll notice it immediately. It’s that specific kind of hum—the sound of a dining room that hasn't just survived for twenty years but has actually stayed relevant. This isn't your standard, sterile hotel eatery. Honestly, most people in the Copley-Fairlawn area don't even think of it as a "hotel restaurant." To locals, it’s just Beau’s Grille, the house that Chef Beau Schmidt built.
Beau’s has this weird, almost magical ability to be two things at once. It’s the place where you go for a high-stakes power lunch with a client from downtown Akron, but it’s also where you end up on a Tuesday night in a hoodie because you just really need those house-made mozzarella sticks.
It’s been around since 2003, taking over the old Market Street Grille space, and in the restaurant world, twenty-plus years is basically a lifetime. You've probably seen the awards plastered near the entrance—everything from "Best Restaurateur" to "Best Steak in Akron"—but the real proof is in the crowd. On any given night, you’re looking at a mix of hotel guests, long-time regulars who have their "usual" table, and foodies who drove in from Cleveland just for the calamari.
What Actually Sets Beau’s Grille Fairlawn Apart?
If you talk to Chef Beau Schmidt, he’ll tell you the secret is consistency. But let's be real: it's the menu. It’s ambitious without being pretentious. You’ve got Italian influences clashing with Asian zing, sitting right next to classic American comfort food.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that it’s "just another steakhouse." While they do a mean Angus Strip and a Filet Mignon that’ll make you want to weep, the range is what’s actually impressive. Where else are you going to find Veal Sausage Stuffed Banana Peppers alongside a Super Food Kale Salad?
The Legend of the Mozzarella Sticks
You can’t write about this place without mentioning the mozzarella sticks. It sounds silly. It’s a bar snack, right?
Wrong.
At Beau’s, these things are hand-rolled, massive, and served with a marinara that actually tastes like tomatoes instead of sugar-water. They’ve won awards for these things. They’re basically the local gold standard for fried cheese.
The Tuscan Vibe and That Patio
The decor is "Tuscan-inspired," which basically means it feels warm, expensive, and a little bit like you’ve escaped Ohio for a second. The stone accents and soft lighting do a lot of heavy lifting for the "romantic dinner" crowd.
But if the weather is even remotely decent, the Terrace is the place to be. It has this rustic stone fireplace and enough seating for about 60 people. It’s arguably one of the best patios in Akron, mostly because it doesn't feel like you’re sitting in a parking lot. It’s private, cozy, and great for people-watching.
Navigating the Beau’s Universe
It’s easy to get confused because the "Beau’s" name is everywhere lately. You’ve got:
- Beau’s Grille (Fairlawn): The original flagship at the DoubleTree.
- Beau's on the River (Cuyahoga Falls): The sister spot at the Sheraton with those floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the falls.
- Beau’s Bar & Bistro (Copley): Formerly the Market & Deli, recently rebranded for a more "hearty dinner" vibe.
While the "River" location has the views, the Fairlawn location has the soul. It’s the operational hub. It’s where you’ll most likely spot Beau himself checking on tables or tweaking a recipe.
The "Must-Order" Reality Check
Look, everyone has their favorites, but if you’re a first-timer or haven't been back in a while, there are a few things that are non-negotiable.
The Calamari Napolitana is a staple for a reason. It’s sautéed, not just deep-fried into a rubbery mess. They hit it with lemon, garlic, and sherry, and it’s surprisingly light. If you’re leaning toward an entree, the Stuffed Salmon (often packed with brie and spinach) is a heavy hitter.
For the traditionalists, the English Cut Prime Rib is a classic. It’s served with Yukon mashed potatoes that are buttery enough to qualify as a dessert. Speaking of dessert, if the Bread Pudding is on the menu, just order it. Don't think about the calories; just do it.
The Business of Being Beau
Behind the scenes, the restaurant is part of the RDA Hotel Management Group. Rennick Andreoli, the president of RDA, and Beau Schmidt have a partnership that has basically shaped the hospitality landscape in this corner of Northeast Ohio. This partnership is why the service is usually so polished. They treat it like a high-end independent restaurant, even though it’s technically "hotel dining."
A Note on Private Dining
If you’re trying to host a rehearsal dinner or a corporate meeting, they have a step-down private area with French doors that fits about 30 people. For bigger blowouts, they lean on the DoubleTree’s 13,000+ square feet of event space. It’s a popular choice for local weddings because, let’s be honest, wedding food is usually "meh," but when Beau’s is catering, people actually eat.
The Practical Stuff
- Location: 3180 W. Market Street, Akron, OH 44333. It's right across from Summit Mall.
- Parking: It’s a hotel, so parking is usually a breeze and complimentary.
- Happy Hour: It’s legendary. Usually runs 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The lounge gets packed, so get there early if you want a seat.
- Live Music: They frequently host local acts like Chad Hoffman or John Markovic in the lounge. It adds a nice layer of energy that you don't always get in Fairlawn.
Final Actionable Insights
If you’re planning a visit, here is how to do it right:
- Make a reservation on OpenTable. Even on weeknights, the place can get slammed with business travelers and locals.
- Ask about the "Soup du Jour." Their kitchen actually makes their stocks from scratch, and the New England Clam Chowder is genuinely some of the best in the 330 area.
- Check the Lounge Calendar. If you prefer a quiet meal, avoid the nights with live music. If you want a vibe, those are the nights to go.
- Try the White French Dressing. It’s house-made and has a cult following. You can usually buy a jar to take home if you’re nice to your server.
Beau’s Grille doesn't need to reinvent the wheel. It just needs to keep being the reliable, slightly upscale, very delicious anchor of Fairlawn. Whether you're there for a $50 steak or a $15 burger, you’re going to get the same level of attention. That’s why it’s still here.