Sourwood Public House Brings Modern Southern Eats to Lakewood
Liam Cutwater · October 18, 2026
Sourwood Public House lands in Lakewood with a daring, modern Southern menu and a thoroughly revamped space.
Lakewood just scored a fiery new dining destination: Sourwood Public House. Opening in the famed former Deagan’s spot, this modern Southern concept is poised to shake up Detroit Avenue with unexpected flavors, a slick interior, and a polished-casual spirit that’s all about tasty risks and local pride.
What’s Cooking at Sourwood Public House
If you think you’ve tasted all the Southern food Cleveland has to offer, think again. Sourwood’s menu fuses classic comfort with bold global twists:
- Deviled Eggs – but not like your grandma made
- Chicken-fried Oysters
- Crispy Catfish Tacos
- Fried Green Tomatoes
- Salads like Caesar and soups such as crawfish bisque and creamy corn chowder
- Show-stopping Korean triple-fried chicken (yes, gluten-free!) with sauces ranging from gochujang BBQ to honey hot
- Shrimp and Grits, Chicken & Waffles, and Blackened Catfish
- Sandwiches (with hand-cut fries) starring fried chicken, fried catfish, and a mighty smash burger
This isn’t standard meat-and-three territory—the kitchen is making “down South” cool again.
Where It’s Making Waves
You’ll find Sourwood Public House at 14810 Detroit Ave., right in the heart of Lakewood. It’s a familiar address for locals—this location hosted Deagan’s Kitchen for over a decade, then a couple of blink-and-you’ll-miss-them successors. But under the helm of industry vet Leo Hines, this spot is set for a serious comeback.
Why This Opening Matters
The Deagan’s building is practically Lakewood legend, and every foodie has wondered who might crack the code since it closed. Leo Hines isn’t a stranger to the scene: this is his first independent venture, but he cut his teeth at powerhouses like Bravo/Brio, Burntwood Tavern, M Italian, and Sapphire Creek Winery. That experience means he knows how to build buzz—and deliver on it.
Lakewood vibes demand a restaurant that isn’t afraid to experiment but knows comfort is key. Sourwood promises both: bold menu moves and total hospitality. Your next go-to spot for date night, group hangs, and fried chicken cravings? Book it.
Dramatic Interior Transformation
The old Deagan’s look wasn’t just retired—it’s been completely rebooted.
- Every inch, from basement to ceiling, has been refreshed.
- New furniture, custom booths, and banquettes bring “polished casual” to life.
- Lighting, wall panels, and bar tops were all purpose-built for good times.
- Exposed brick got a cool grey-wash, making it lighter, brighter, and way more Instagram-worthy.
You’ll walk in and immediately know this isn’t your dad’s gastropub.
When and How to Visit
Sourwood Public House plans to open doors in early December, just in time for a winter comfort food fix. No reservations? Not a problem—just bring your appetite.
- Address: 14810 Detroit Ave, Lakewood
- Keep your eyes open for their opening announcement, and you’ll want to slide in ASAP to get first tastes.
One to Watch
From menu to space, Sourwood Public House is out to set a new standard for modern Southern in Cleveland. Lakewood, you’ve waited long enough—now get ready for something big. Meet you at the bar?