At age the of 20, Chef Rafael moved with his wife to Cleveland, Ohio. His goal was to continue his Italian culinary skills which he acquired in the region of Verona, Italy.Chef Rafael was introduced to the restaurant industry at a very young age. His grandmother was very well known for her home-cooked dishes. She loved having her grandson with her as she cooked meals as soon as he was able to walk. He was six years old when he first learned how to make homemade pasta and, by age 14, he was ready to embark on his own culinary journey. His first stop was Verona, Italy,which was the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The romantic and rich architectural heritage of Verona was matched by the great culinary venues of that city and Chef Rafael's experience and skills grew exponentially. Three years later, Chef Rafael traveled to Belgium and France where he then experienced cooking French cuisine as well.
Venetian Born Chef Alberto Leandri prepares flavors from home for Clevelanders at this upscale, modern Italian restaurant. The menu will feature handmade pastas, fresh fish and seafood, fine meats, and artisan pastries and gelato.
The regional and contemporary menu at Lago is a culmination of northern Piedmontese dishes to Sicilian seafood dishes inspired by 30 years of Italian cooking and upbringing. We have also added in some popular American-Italian dishes for those guests looking for a more modern Italian dining experience. The beverage options at Lago are equally as much thought out in standard and craft as the food menu. Lago offers a unique predominantly Italian wine list, where a large number of bottles can also be ordered by the glass, and half bottle. A 10 selection draft list, well thought out craft bottled beer, Italian inspired handcrafted cocktail & martini list sets Lago apart from all the rest! Lago’s philosophy is simple… The freshest ingredients, made from scratch menu items, using simple recipes to bring authentic Italian flavors to the table. All inside a warm and inviting atmosphere where good food and good friends coexist in blissful harmony. Annually a "Best Of" Winner, Come and join us!
