Where CLE Eats: Voodoo Tuna’s Joe Koskovics

Who’s going to eat? Joe, operating partner at Voodoo Tuna, a sushi bar and Asian fusion restaurant located at 15326 Detroit Ave. in Lakewood.

Where does he suggest? Taki’s Greek Kitchen, located at 377 Lear Road in Avon Lake, and Il Rione, located at 1303 W. 65 St. in Gordon Square. 

Why does he go there? When it comes to why he suggests that people go to Taki’s, Koskovics has a simple answer.

“They have the best dish in Cleveland,” he explains.

That particular dish is the octapodi skaras, a char-grilled octopus served with arugula, warm Greek potato salad, and a red wine vinaigrette. Koskovics first encountered the dish on his first trip to Taki’s around two-and-a-half years ago. Now he stops by Taki’s at least once a month to enjoy the atmosphere, daily specials, and some standout cephalopod. 

“I’ve never had octopus prepared that well in my life,” Koskovics says. “I love octopus, especially being a sushi chef. After ordering the dish 20-plus times, it’s been just as good every single time.”

Koskovics second establishment also highlights good seafood, but this time the sea creature plays a supporting role. 

“One of my favorite pizzas in the Cleveland area is the clam pie at Il Rione,” he says. “It’s not overloaded with toppings – the middleneck clams, smoked pepper, and Italian seasoning make this my favorite seafood pizza to have any time of year.”

While molluscs might not be everyone’s go-to pizza topping, the briney goodness of Il Rione’s clam pie takes the cake for Koskovics. In fact, he suggests pairing it with a nice, buttery Chardonnay if you’re in the mood for a real treat.