The Cutting Board, in its third year, is located inside the historic Aurora Inn. Their upscale homestyle menu changes throughout the season keeping creations fresh for diners. The restaurant is open daily (except Christmas Day) for inn and outside guests.
In addition to dining, this modern venue is great for weddings, social events, family reunions and showers. They also cater! We enjoyed having them cater one of our recent Board Meetings. Make sure to check out the events calendar on their website to see when they’ll be hosting their next wine or beer dinner.
Chef Paul Mendolera has been in the kitchen since he was 13 years old and with Aurora Inn just under a year and a half. Sous Chef, Scott Ita, has been involved with our events in the past through his previous endeavors and introduced Paul to Our Lady of the Wayside. Paul is no stranger to competition, as he has participated in other local events. Last year he tok home a win at Taste of the Western Reserve! This will be his second year competing at Cleveland’s Finest Hors d’Oeuvre Contest and we're happy to have him back. Aurora Inn also helped us kick off the BBQ season at Grapes & Ale last May. They will host their very own area BBQ Chef War this Spring.
What’s on the menu for our guests tonight?
Chef Paul will be cooking up a Lobster Sweet Pea Risotto!
Executive Chef Joe Novak has been in a kitchen professionally for a little over 15 years. After attending a community college for some time, he took the opportunity to attend culinary school where he was able to build on his skills and passion for cooking. Joe enjoys that he is still able to learn through the experiences his career brings. Right next door to HGI is the 700 Beta Conference Center, a premier event space that he helps run. This prime location hosts anything from corporate conferences and training sessions to weddings and family reunions.
Though this will be his first time participating in Cleveland's Finest Hors d'Oeuvre Contest, Joe has won 'Best Appetizer' and 'Best of Show' at other local competitions. The Hilton Garden Inn just so happens to be a sister property of Aurora Inn, which is how they became introduced to Our Lady of the Wayside and tonight's event. We are excited to have them join us this year!
What will Chef Joe being cooking up for guests tonight?
A twist on Bruschetta and his award winning Crab Cakes!