Chef Vinnie Cimino.

In the world of culinary arts, few names are as synonymous with heartfelt hospitality and innovation as Vinnie Cimino. The 2024 James Beard Semifinalist, who has crafted a reputation for blending his Midwestern roots with forward-thinking cuisine, is more than just a chef—he’s a visionary with a mission to redefine how we think about food, community, and the people behind it all.
At Cordelia, his restaurant in Cleveland, Cimino’s culinary journey takes center stage, wrapped in a warm blanket of what he calls "Midwest Nice." It’s a concept that, to Cimino, is more than just a slogan. "It’s who we are. It’s embedded deep down," he says. He’s not just referring to the signature dishes or the farm-fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers. Cimino is talking about an ethos of genuine hospitality—one that radiates from his staff as they greet each guest with the kind of warmth and sincerity that can only come from a place where relationships are valued over everything...