Fun In Fairlawn (No Kids Allowed)

Fun In Fairlawn (No Kids Allowed)

Parents Night Out Wine Glasses
Brandi and her husband, Mike.

Couples who play together, stay together.

When my husband, Mike, and I moved to the Akron area six years ago, we were young, newly married and had only a dog in tow. We didn’t know a soul, but were excited about the opportunities that a new city, places and friendships would bring.

We both determined to work and play hard and we’ve spent the last half dozen years building our careers, family and life as Akronites. Now, with our busy schedules, a happy dog and the newest addition, an adorable toddler (I’m biased, I know), I’d say that we succeeded in our quest to settle in.

Like most families with kids, pets, working ­parents and a calendar full of commitments, our life is utter and complete chaos. I wouldn’t have it any other way; however, an old friend once offered ­marital advice that continues to resonate with me. He said, “Don’t ever get so busy that you forget that relationships are like bank accounts. You’ve got to make deposits in order to make withdrawals.”

It’s with this in mind, Mike and I make an effort to arrange a “date night” every few weeks. No kid, no distractions, just he and I, enjoying each other and our surroundings. Luckily, Fairlawn has a variety of great eateries and entertainment for us to enjoy, so it’s easy for us to get away, while staying close to home.

First Comes Golf

We arranged for our babysitter to arrive in the late afternoon so that we could squeeze in a quick nine holes of golf at Fairlawn Country Club before dinner. Despite my pathetic golf game, we had a great time unwinding from the week while getting a little ­exercise and fresh air.

Out On The Town   

After far too many swings on the beautiful course and some fun banter, we did a quick wardrobe change and headed down the street to 750ml (2287 W. Market St.), a charming wine bar nestled in the corner of Pilgrim Square. We found a coveted table on their small patio and enjoyed a unique flatbread called The Angry Chicken, which was the perfect spicy complement to our big, bold wine. With no toddler to chase after, the mood of the meal was so peaceful that it didn’t feel like we were overlooking Market Street, but rather Napa Valley. Blissful.

With the sun still shining bright, we decided to move on to another favorite patio in the area, Beau’s Grille (at the Akron/Fairlawn Hilton, 3180 W. Market St.). Although bustling with a large dinner crowd, we were able to score a table for two and ­ordered a few more small plates to share. The Beau’s Berry and Watermelon salad has to be one of my all-time favorite meals. In a single bite, I can taste summer.

After finishing our meal, we visited with some friends while lounging in the comfortable seating area by the terrace fireplace to cap off the evening.

Adult conversation in a kid-free environment isn’t something we get much of these days. To honor the experience, we tried hard to steer clear of any topics that ­included crayons, Hot Wheels or Disney Jr.

We went home with happy stomachs and happy hearts, knowing that our parents night out was the perfect evening to prepare us for demands the busy weeks ahead will surely bring.

I’m already planning our next date night. Do you have suggestions on places that we should visit around Northeast Ohio? Share with us at #NEOhioParentsNightOut.

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