It's what you get when you are committed to your community, your friends and your family. After almost 20 years of working in fine dining establishments, Northeast Ohio native, and classically trained Chef James Balchak has moved back home for a new venture: Aurelia, an American-style bistro in Chagrin Falls, Ohio.
As Chef James Balchak defines it, I believe in Northeast Ohio; the food will be sourced from local farms, fisheries and suppliers. All food products will be fresh and seasonal and the menu will change based on what is available during the season or on that day. The New American-style bistro will offer a wide variety of high-quality food in an upscale, yet casual environment at reasonable prices.
As Chef James Balchak defines it, I believe in Northeast Ohio; the food will be sourced from local farms, fisheries and suppliers. All food products will be fresh and seasonal and the menu will change based on what is available during the season or on that day. The New American-style bistro will offer a wide variety of high-quality food in an upscale, yet casual environment at reasonable prices.
Reviews (14)
Federico Brooks
Jan 21, 2022
Report
This restaurant deserves 6 stars. Every time I have dined at Aurelia with my partner it has set the bar higher for all the other restaurants I have reviewed.
The atmosphere is cozy and accommodating, with professional, smart, familial and warm service, and the food arrives surprisingly quickly.
But it's the food that sets its galaxies apart from any other restaurant i have ever dined in. The quality of the ingredients and their source, the artistry of their composition, and the palpable love that is put into every dish is unmatched.
Bravo
The atmosphere is cozy and accommodating, with professional, smart, familial and warm service, and the food arrives surprisingly quickly.
But it's the food that sets its galaxies apart from any other restaurant i have ever dined in. The quality of the ingredients and their source, the artistry of their composition, and the palpable love that is put into every dish is unmatched.
Bravo
Banca Littlejohn
Dec 20, 2021
Report
I wish I could say this restaurant provided a wonderful experience celebrating my graduation and my brothers birthday but I will never know. The restaurant canceled my dinner reservation for 8 people less than 4 hours before I was expected to arrive. I understand Covid and staffing has been an issue, but to cancel the day of was very disappointing and unprofessional. If staffing has been an issue at this establishment the restaurant was already aware and should have provided adequate notice or made arrangements to accommodate customers. I wasn’t even able to make alternate dinner arrangements
Emily Weiss
Nov 29, 2021
Report
AMAZING!! If I could give 100 stars I would in an instant! Amazing cocktails, appetizers, and meals. We were very impressed. Attentive staff and perfect service. The owner, James came over and we spoke with him for a little while. What a wonderful person and passion for what he loves. My favorite restaurant, hands down. Will be back very very soon.
Luke Herr
Aug 21, 2021
Report
This was our first pandemic meal out since we headed up to Cleveland for a vacation and I'd stumbled into it looking for something different than the normal high end chain restaurants near our hotel. My fiancee and I were delighted to find one of the best dining experiences we'd had in years with wonderful food and atmosphere. While we won't likely return until the pandemic is over if it ever truly ends, I'm grateful we got to experience this meal out.
Jenny Cruger
May 15, 2021
Report
This has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants. We had an incredible meal each time we have gone. It’s not a huge menu but this place doesn’t need one. The chef here is definitely an artist and his… passion comes through in every bite. The food is seasonal, fresh and of high quality ingredients. Can’t wait to return for the scallops. Thank you!!!!
Anusha Gibson
Apr 18, 2021
Report
Jennifer Costantino Gant
Aug 16, 2020
Report
Ron Robertson
Aug 09, 2020
Report
The place smells terrible of fish... it’s very overwhelming as soon as you walk in.. we almost turned around and walked back out.. we noticed several other people coming in and mentioning to themselves of the… odor.... it was down hill from there.. service was okay the food was nothing spectacular, portions were good , we were never asked for dessert or coffee , a total different person dropped the check off and walked away ? Don’t even know who or were she came from?? We both expected more by all of the reviews and their website..very disappointed..
Melissa Thouin Federman
Jul 12, 2020
Report
Anthony S.
Jun 10, 2019
Report
Griffen Stephens
May 31, 2019
Report
Hollis Moore
Oct 13, 2018
Report
Outstanding food, incredible service! This place is truly special. Chef James and the rest of the staff are amazing and made me feel at home. I truly have not tried one item that wasn’t excellent. The fresh, original cocktails and extensive wine list is the cherry on top of the incredible cuisine! The sangria is to die for, and uses a ton of fresh fruit as the sweetness so it’s not too sugary. I also love the Oolong Sweet Tea cocktail that has fresh brewed tea, homemade lemonade, and Tito’s. Last night I had the Lake Erie Walleye cakes and the salmon salad with strawberries, both incredible
Diana Medina
Oct 04, 2018
Report
Bruce Corson
Sep 18, 2018
Report