Cork ‘N Cleaver, A Local Dining Staple

Looking for a dependably delicious destination for a business lunch, dinner out with the girls, or cozy meal with the whole family? Look no further than Cork ‘N Cleaver. With a solid menu that takes in hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, chicken, chops and slow-roasted prime rib, there’s sure to be something at Cork ‘N Cleaver to please every member of the party.

Although Cork ‘N Cleaver’s only Fort Wayne location sits along Washington Center Road, the restaurant is actually part of a bigger national franchise that’s been around for decades, (the first Cork ‘N Cleaver opened in Scottsdale, Arizona in 1964). The inviting décor and atmosphere call to mind a Southwestern hacienda, and provide a much-appreciated way to warm up during this chilly time of year! In keeping with the overall theme of the restaurant, menus are cleverly presented on actual meat cleavers (don’t worry, there are no sharp edges)!

You can’t go wrong with a steak for dinner, or perhaps an order of tender prime rib, also available in sandwich form at lunch served on a crusty hoagie roll with horseradish sauce and au jus on the side.

Sides go above and beyond the usual fries and chips into some much more interesting and tasty alternatives ranging from cheesy potatoes au gratin to sautéed garlic mushrooms and mashed rum sweet potatoes.

Cork and Cleaver is also known for their infamous salad bar. With several toppings, bases, proteins, and dressing, this unique and innovative concept allows for guests to truly make the dining experience their own. They literally have everything you can think of - from anchovies - to jelly belly jellybeans!                                                

For dessert? A six-inch-tall slab of Mud Pie is a no-brainer, a glorious creation of mocha ice cream, chocolate cookie crust, whipped cream and hot fudge. 

Cork ‘N Cleaver is located at 221 E. Washington Center Rd. For more information, call (260) 484-7772 or visit corkncleaveronline.com.

This post was originally published in January 2012 and has been updated. Updated May 2024.