Sokolowski's University Inn

Story

At Sokolowski’s University Inn, we meet a lot of your dining needs. Whether you’re meeting business associates or just getting together with a friend for lunch, you’re guaranteed to get a good meal at a great price.

On a Friday or Saturday night, having dinner at the University Inn provides fun and flavor. Come with friends and enjoy a cold drink from our diverse beer selection. Or, bring a date and let Cleveland’s legendary Tom Ballog entertain you with the piano. We take reservations for larger parties and can also help you plan your next private party. Looking for a place to host your rehearsal dinner? We frequently work with brides and grooms to provide a great experience at one of Cleveland’s staples.

Sokolowski’s is open for lunch throughout the week and dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings. Please contact us for more information or to ask questions about your next private party or to make a reservation.


THE HISTORY BEHIND THE INN

Established in 1923, Sokolowski's University Inn is one of Cleveland's oldest family-owned and operated restaurants.

Victoria and Michael Sokolowski purchased the property in 1923. Back in the day, Tremont (or Southside, as it was known for many years) was filled with many taverns and saloons. It was a hard-working, blue collar, industry-driven neighborhood, so it was only natural for these laborers to want a cold one at the end of a long day. Victoria and Michael provided just that.

Fast forward to the 1950s, the Sokolowski's son, Bernard, returns home from the Army and begins to run the family tavern. His future wife, Marion, had moved from New York to Cleveland in the early 50s where she continued to work as a Registered Nurse in local hospitals. She was introduced to Bernard, and they wed in 1954.

As the city and neighborhood continued to evolve with growth and industry, Bernard and Marion decided it was time to start serving some of those Polish-style recipes Marion had learned growing up. When the Innerbelt project started in the mid 1950s, Victoria came up with the idea of feeding these ironworkers, and that's when Sokolowski's dove into the food industry. Marion suggested cafeteria-style service, serving good, quality food. Sokolowski's was born. It's somewhat ironic that we are still here as the state and city begin to build two new Innerbelt bridges.

Bernard passed away in 1987 and Marion in 2001. They taught their children and grandchildren about how to treat people and employees, and above all, you patrons. They instilled a moral foundation that is so important today.

Today, Bernard Jr., Michael, and Mary Lou run Sokolowski's. We are proud to be the oldest eatery in Tremont and the second oldest family-owned and operated restaurant in Cleveland today.