Cleveland’s Pickle Showdown: Who Took the Brine Crown?
National Pickle Day may have passed on November 14th, but the tangy excitement is still a hot topic in Northeast Ohio. To celebrate this beloved snack, cleveland.com’s Yadi Rodriguez took on the delicious task of ranking nine local pickle varieties from two prominent brands, offering a definitive guide for pickle enthusiasts across the region.
Northeast Ohio’s Deep Dive into Pickles
Pickles are far more than just a sidekick in Cleveland; they’re often the main event! From classic spears to innovative artisanal creations that could make a cucumber blush, our region boasts a vibrant pickle scene, complete with its own dedicated festival. In honor of this local passion for all things vinegary, we delved into offerings from two standout brands: Cleveland Pickle and Randy’s Artisanal Pickles, both conveniently found at Heinen’s.
Meet the Brine Battlers: Cleveland Pickle vs. Randy’s Artisanal
The competition showcased two distinct styles, each bringing unique qualities to the jar. Cleveland Pickle presented thick, crunchy chips renowned for their clean, bold flavors. Their commitment to consumer convenience was evident with helpful serving suggestions printed right on the jar, making them a user-friendly choice for any pickle lover’s pantry.
On the other side, Randy’s Artisanal Pickles charmed tasters with quirky and memorable names like “Mustache on Fire” and “Black Pepper.” These small-batch creations impressed with their fresh ingredients and artisanal appeal. An added bonus: most of Randy’s offerings are kosher, vegan, and gluten-free, ensuring accessibility for nearly everyone in the community.
The Crunchy, Tangy Taste Test Experience
Our expert tasters sampled a wide array, ranging from the familiar sweet-and-tangy bread-and-butter chips to fiery spears that explicitly promised a “killer afterburn.” The evaluation process rigorously focused on several key criteria: the all-important crunch factor, the balance of flavors, and whether each pickle truly delivered on its promised profile. While some entries, like Cleveland Pickle’s Original Dill (noted as too vinegary) and Randy’s Deli Style Dill (which missed the mark on both texture and taste), fell short, many others truly shone, demonstrating the incredible variety and quality available locally in Northeast Ohio.
And the Pickle Champion Is…
After much tasting and deliberation, a clear victor emerged from the briny showdown! Cleveland Pickle’s Spicy Dill proudly claimed the No. 1 spot. This pickle was universally praised as a true “adult pickle,” offering a perfect combination of bold heat, satisfyingly thick slices, and a perfectly balanced flavor profile that spice aficionados will absolutely adore.
Hot on its heels at No. 2 was Randy’s Spicy Dill, which provided a consistently satisfying crunch and a delightful slow-building heat that lingered pleasantly. Other notable mentions from the ranking included Cleveland Pickle’s Sweet & Hot (securing No. 4) for those who appreciate a sweet introduction followed by a spicy kick, and Randy’s Bread & Butter (at No. 5), a quintessential choice for fans of classic tangy sweetness.
Top-Ranked Pickles at a Glance
| Rank | Brand | Variety | Key Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Cleveland Pickle | Spicy Dill | Bold heat, thick slices, balanced flavor |
| #2 | Randy’s Artisanal | Spicy Dill | Slow-building heat, satisfying crunch |
| #4 | Cleveland Pickle | Sweet & Hot | Sweet with a distinct spicy kick |
| #5 | Randy’s Artisanal | Bread & Butter | Classic tangy sweetness |
Why Cleveland’s Local Pickles Matter
This comprehensive pickle showdown underscores that these crunchy delights are far more than just a fleeting trend in Northeast Ohio; they are an integral and cherished part of our culinary landscape. Whether you’re indulging in a snack straight from the jar, enhancing your favorite burger, or adding a zesty chop to a vibrant salad, these local brands consistently deliver exceptional and memorable flavor experiences. Their commitment to quality, innovative variety, and accessible options truly showcases the vibrant and thriving food scene right here in Cleveland.
Want to explore the complete ranking of all nine varieties and discover your own next favorite jar? Check out the full list HERE!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleveland’s Pickles
- When was National Pickle Day celebrated?
National Pickle Day, which inspired this local ranking, was celebrated on November 14th. - Which local pickle brands were featured in the ranking?
The ranking prominently featured pickle varieties from two beloved local brands: Cleveland Pickle and Randy’s Artisanal Pickles. - Where can Cleveland locals purchase these highly-rated pickles?
Both Cleveland Pickle and Randy’s Artisanal Pickles, as highlighted in the article, can be conveniently found at Heinen’s. - Which specific pickle took the highly coveted top spot in the Cleveland ranking?
Cleveland Pickle’s Spicy Dill was officially crowned the No. 1 pickle, praised for its bold heat and balanced flavor. - Are these local pickles suitable for various dietary preferences?
Yes, many of Randy’s Artisanal Pickles are explicitly labeled as kosher, vegan, and gluten-free, making them accessible and enjoyable for nearly everyone.
Next time you’re craving a crunchy, tangy, or spicy bite, remember that Cleveland’s thriving local pickle scene offers a world of delicious flavor right in your own backyard, waiting to be explored.
Cleveland’s Top Pickles Ranked
