Chef Tony Fortner

          Chef Tony Fortner is the innovative Executive Chef of Southern Cafe, bringing a fresh, new, creative twist on traditional soul food. The basic concept is the merger of his fine dining background, combined with the comfort food he grew up eating. The end result is an edgy, new menu that's sure to please the toughest critics palate. From classics Buttermilk Fried Chicken, Smothered Pork Chops, Chicken & Sausage Gumbo, Collard Greens & Baked Macaroni & Cheese, to his signature creations; Soul Rolls, Red Velvet Waffles, House Potatoes, Whiskey Ginger BBQ Sauce and Black Bean Chili. (To name just a few.) When you sample the selections at Southern Cafe, you will taste the southern influence of the cuisine he has brought to the shores of Lake Erie.

Our History

Chef Tony started cooking in a professional kitchen in 1979. Having attended culinary school and becoming a certified culinarian, he returned to his hometown of Cleveland and held positions at some of the top venues in the city, including Embassy Suites, Johnny's Downtown, and Canterbury Golf Club, where he came to realize that southern comfort food was a cuisine that he wanted to introduce to the city. He always brought a new and creative style to enrich the dining experience of his adventurous fans. Creating and implementing Southern Cafe's menu has proven to be a good decision. When you read the menu you will know that you are about to embark on an innovative dining experience!