Hook & Hoof New American Kitchen and Cocktail — Restaurant in Willoughby

We had the pleasure of visiting this establishment on Thursday, April 3, 2025, arriving just before 5:00 PM. Despite not having a reservation, we were seated promptly—a stroke of luck, as reservations are typically recommended here.

The ambiance is dark and moody, by design. The dim lighting and accented interior gave off a castle-like aesthetic, which complements the establishment’s identity as a bourbon bar. It’s a place where people gather not only to dine, but to drink and unwind in a cozy, almost medieval atmosphere. The setting was unique and immersive, offering a high-end, yet comfortable, experience.

To start, we ordered the Brussels sprouts—and they were phenomenal. Easily one of the best renditions of this dish we’ve tried. Crispy, flavorful, and uniquely seasoned, they showcased the chef’s creativity and attention to detail. These are a must-try for any first-time visitor.

For our main course, we selected the C.A.B. (Certified Angus Beef) Strip Steak, priced at $48. Each came with fried mushrooms, a whole grain mustard sauce, and potato wedges. I requested my steak cooked slightly more than medium, leaning toward medium-well, and although there was still a bit of visible pink (even a touch of blood, as seen in photos), the flavor and execution were exquisite. The steak was tender, perfectly seasoned, and rich with flavor—absolutely worth every dollar.

To end the meal, we enjoyed a slice of baklava cheesecake. This dessert delivered on all fronts—texture, flavor, and originality. It was one of the most memorable cheesecakes I’ve had in quite some time. The fusion of classic baklava crunch and creamy cheesecake was executed beautifully.

Service throughout the evening was smooth and attentive. The staff maintained a good balance of professionalism and warmth. The bathroom was spacious and clean, which added to the overall positive impression of the establishment.

Final Thoughts

This restaurant is truly a gem in Willoughby, Ohio. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates well-crafted food and atmosphere, this spot deserves a visit. It’s a high-quality dining experience with a distinct character—and one that absolutely belongs on your local or travel bucket list. Make a reservation if you can, but if you’re lucky like we were, you just might get seated for an...

A wonderful hidden treasure in Willoughby. The service was wonderful, the bar inventive, and the food delicious!

We started with the duck wings which were served well paired with a house bourbon bbq sauce garnished with fresh wispy dill. Super crispy, sweet and tangy which played well with the extra fat of the duck. Six large wings to an order!

Next the fried brussel sprouts in a sour but savory asian flavor profile with a clever garnish of crushed wasabi peas on top were a highlight of the whole meal. Served in a large bowl these easily fed two and could have served many more as an appetizer.

My wife ordered the butcher's cut- a 14oz Ribeye on this night served with a creamed spinach gratin that was to die for! MP was a very reasonable $34.

I had the wedge and paired it with the smoked clams/mussels. The salad is served with a creamy and sweet take on a blue cheese buttermilk dressing off set by a large and salty piece of fried pork belly.

The smoked clams/mussles were served steaming in a pot of delicious broth formed with smoky chorizo, lager, and coconut milk. Large crusty pieces of baguette were perfect for dipping. I need to impress upon the portion here, this can feed a table of 4-6 as an appetizer and even as an entree could easily feed 2 as I brought about half home.

Finally the cocktail list, especially the wide variety of whiskeys, is impressive. While all our cocktails were well prepared and tasty, the most impressive was I believe titled the "Oakland Park." A beautiful scotch forward drink made with Suntory and Blood Orangecello served with a table side smoke presentation. Wow!

Overall an amazing experience, we will be coming back again and again. If you appreciate the food buy the kitchen a round for after hours. $12 to spread a little Modelo joy to those hard working cooks is priceless. This should be a haunt for everyone in the...

Passed thru area and wanted a good meal at a locally-owned unique restaurant. Food was good but service lacked considerably for this type of supposed upscale restaurant.

Firstly, sign for restaurant poorly placed, dark and barely readable, making it very difficult to find location.

Waitress was nice but did not try very hard to explain options or anything about restaurant, knowing we were not from the area. Water glasses went unfilled until asked even though she went by our table often. Dirty dishes not removed promptly as expected. Not asked if we were finished with items before attempting to remove them from our table.

Food runner tried to serve me someone else’s entree. Then she brought my husband’s meal; my meal was delayed approximately 15-20 plus minutes. My husband ate his meal slowly but he was finished with his by the time my entree arrived. Other food was coming out of the kitchen for other customers with no attention to getting my entree promptly so I could have it at same time as my husband. Waitress apologized after a few minutes and stated staff misread order and actually my husband received another person’s order of the same entree. Finally, when my entree was brought to the table, the waitress just said the chef was sorry. Nothing else!!!!!!!! Expect a little more than a sorry.

Observed other couples leaving without ordering -one was never waited upon after a considerable amount of time.

There was plenty of staff. Restaurant was far from very busy. No excuse.

Not what was expected in this caliber of restaurant. Our bill was over $100 for 2 entrees, 1 wedge salad, 1 dessert and 2 waters. We did not drink alcohol due to having to drive 5 more hours after our dinner.

Food was wonderful and very tasty, but wait staff and food runners could use a LOT of intense training for this type of restaurant and...