Romantic dining in Our Regions
Planning the perfect date night? Discover intimate settings, exceptional cuisine, and romantic ambiance at these standout restaurants. Whether it's a first date or celebrating an anniversary, these spots set the mood for an unforgettable evening.
A beloved neighborhood bistro, Otto’s has been serving seasonal, locally influenced New American and Southern-inspired dishes in the heart of Covington’s MainStrasse since 2003. Known for its refined yet intimate atmosphere, the restaurant is especially celebrated for its fried green tomatoes and popular Sunday brunch, while offering lunch, dinner, brunch, and drinks. Gluten-free menu available.
2023 CityBeat's Best New Restaurant, Mama's on Main is a charming Italian wine bar in Covington's Mainstrasse Village owned by Emily Wolff and Paul Weckman, featuring house-made pastas, chicken parmesan, arancini, tiramisu, and espresso martinis which can be enjoyed on the rooftop. Cozy, vintage Italian décor with eclectic touches including stained glass and pinups, offering intimate dining rooms, heated rooftop seating, and a full bar with wine selection, creating a romantic yet lively atmosphere perfect for date nights or celebrations.
Strongs Brick Oven Pizzeria crafts authentic Old World-style pizza made from scratch daily and baked in Italian brick ovens for unmatched flavor. Founded in Newport in 2012, this local favorite has expanded across Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati with award-winning pies like the Pizza Alla Vodka, plus fresh appetizers and salads all made in-house.
Opened in 2016 as Mac's first Kentucky location, Mac's Pizza in MainStrasse Village is a go-to spot for families and friends, offering spacious indoor seating, two large patios, and private event space seven days a week. Known for its handcrafted pizzas made with homemade dough, slow-simmered marinara, and premium ingredients, Mac's also features a full menu of entrees and desserts alongside 26 beers on tap and more than 100 bottled and canned options.
Neighborhood gastropub serving elevated American comfort food with a focus on steaks, pork, and hearty entrees in a cozy, intimate setting. The heated, tented patio makes it a great spot year-round, and the menu also includes inventive seasonal dishes and select seafood options. Perfect for casual nights out, date nights, or gathering with friends.
Cozy steakhouse celebrating horse racing history with two outdoor patios, winning "Best Steak" in Northern Kentucky for 13 consecutive years. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, serving steaks, seafood, burgers, and pasta with a talented culinary team dedicated to creating visually stunning dishes and unforgettable experiences.
Carmelo's honors the legacy of Sicilian immigrant Carmelo Caserta, who believed food unites community, through warm hospitality and Italian-inspired dishes served in a welcoming atmosphere where everyone is treated like family. Co-owned by culinary veterans Billy Grise (The Rookwood, Hotel Covington) and Mitch Arens (trained in New Orleans' Cajun and Creole traditions), the restaurant blends Italian heritage with Southern flavors and family recipes.
Cork N Crust Bellevue serves handmade gourmet pizzas with unique sauce and cheese blends, house-smoked wings, charcuterie boards, and specialty salads with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options in a trendy, comfortable atmosphere. Featuring a unique wine selection with 16 wines on tap, wine flights, crafted cocktails, and international beers, plus front sidewalk and back patio seating.
Family-owned Tex-Mex and steakhouse serving Anderson Township since 1982. Famous for blackened pork chops—center-cut, bone-in, and lightly seasoned with a signature house blend. The menu spans Southwest favorites and hand-cut steaks, all prepared fresh daily. Margaritas are a local favorite. The cozy atmosphere features an indoor fireplace and year-round heated patio. A neighborhood institution where regulars gather for quality steaks and Tex-Mex classics.
Set in a renovated 1800s bottling works at the corner of downtown Lexington's Warehouse Block, where the original owner's name and an 1863 date are still set into the terrazzo at the door. Executive chef and owner Cole Arimes builds a rotating small-plates menu around house-cured meats, house-baked bread, and Kentucky farms named on the page, then runs pan-Asian technique through much of it: ginger ponzu, gochujang, tamarind. The room is industrial modern softened with sheer curtains and warm wood. Weekend brunch, a certified sommelier's wine and spirits program, Wednesday live music, and two private event rooms.
Family owned and operated since August 2014 by the Hoxha family, who arrived from Albania in 2003 chasing the American dream. Brothers and chefs Klodjan and Renato run the kitchen, sister Eri handles the front, and the parents work there daily. They also own a restaurant of the same name in Myrtle Beach. Pizza came off the menu years ago so the kitchen could focus on fine dining. What's left is a seafood-forward Italian menu built on scratch marinara, veal and chicken classics, scallops and lobster. The family kept pizza alive at Gios Pizzeria Napoletana in Market Common.
Fort Mitchell landmark since 1921, originally the Dixie Tea Room, renowned for world-famous onion rings, southern-style fried chicken, steaks, seafood, Hot Browns, and Sunday brunch buffet featuring goetta and fried chicken. Best of NKY 2022 & 2023 overall restaurant winner and Northern Kentucky's most award-winning restaurant, featuring charming historic Tavern Room and Hunt Room with knotty pine walls, oak floors, and a proud tradition of handcrafted southern comfort food.
Gastropub perched atop Price Hill offering Cincinnati's most spectacular panoramic views of downtown skyline, Ohio River, and Northern Kentucky. Named for historic Price Hill Incline that operated 1874-1943, restaurant sits on exact site of original Price Hill House. Dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows maximizing vista, while 1,400-square-foot heated seasonal deck seats 60 guests. Scratch kitchen utilizes in-house smoker and brick oven producing elevated pub fare including braised short rib grilled cheese, lamb burger sliders, wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings, gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, fried pickles, and grippos mac-n-cheese. Extensive bourbon selection features 30+ top-shelf bottles including Blanton's, E.H. Taylor, Weller, Stagg, and Old Fitzgerald. Sunday brunch served 10am-2pm. Historic photographs throughout restaurant document incline's legacy. Featured on Cooking Channel's 'Burgers, Brew and Que.'
Family-owned and operated steakhouse in historic two-story brick building on scenic Route 56, featuring wood-fired grills and affordable menu options for the whole family. Open-concept seating with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and vintage-inspired lighting creates comfortable yet special atmosphere. Live local musicians on Friday nights. Wood-fired steaks including ribeye, filet, and salmon served in intimate dining room with purple upholstered chairs. Established 2020.
Opened in 2003 as West Chester’s first fine-dining restaurant, Jag’s Steak & Seafood was built on a partnership between founder John Allgaier and Chef Michelle Brown, who later became chef proprietor and majority owner. The menu blends classic steakhouse traditions with contemporary touches, complemented by a deep wine cellar and a polished raw bar. Beyond the dining room, live music in the piano bar has helped establish Jag’s as a full evening destination, pairing refined food with entertainment and an enduring local reputation.
A downtown Broadway storefront that Miami County locals will tell you serves the best steak around, wrapped wall to wall in a music-legends theme: pop-art icons, gold cherubs and columns, a motorcycle parked indoors, and a stage built into the dining room for live bands. The cocktail list runs on the same conceit, every drink a riff on a music or pop-culture figure, and regulars name their bartender in reviews. Past the steaks the kitchen turns out breaded tenderloins, loaded burgers, a house barbecue sauce on half the menu, and a torched crème brûlée cheesecake.
Northern Kentucky's premiere dining destination combining exceptional steakhouse classics with authentic sushi and innovative seafood creations in an aesthetic masterpiece setting overlooking the Ohio River to downtown Cincinnati. Features prime dry-aged beef from Chicago alongside an authentic sushi menu and weekly fresh seafood specials, delivering a truly unique fine dining experience that seamlessly blends steakhouse traditions with Japanese culinary artistry.
Established in 1949, this longtime Cincinnati steakhouse feels like a step back into a mid-century speakeasy, complete with low lighting, classic booths, and old-school charm. The menu remains rooted in tradition, featuring char-grilled steaks, seafood, and legacy dishes that have defined the restaurant for decades. With its iconic dancing bull sign still welcoming guests and a legacy tied to classic cocktails, Rat Pack lore, and even film history, it remains a place where nostalgia and a good night out go hand in hand.
From the team behind Alfio's Buon Cibo (OpenTable's Top 100 in America), Noche blends Italian tradition with Argentine passion in a moody, magnetic space built for late-night energy and shared plates. Chef Alfio Gulisano's fire-kissed menu features house-made pastas, wood-fired creations like empanadas and arancini, and standout dishes like short rib gnocchi, with craft cocktails and an adventurous wine list designed to keep you lingering long after dinner.
Historic Italian restaurant and bar established in 1933 in a building dating to 1902, serving generations with Mrs. Pompilio's homemade ravioli recipe, Italian sausage, lasagna, cannelloni, and traditional pastas in Newport's legendary corner location. Featured in Rain Man (1988) with Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise, boasting regulation bocce courts with 64-team league, live music several nights weekly, Kentucky bourbon collection on the original back bar, and over a century of stories including mobsters, celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Marilyn Monroe, and families bringing second and third generations to this Italian restaurant with Kentucky flavor and unparalleled hospitality.
An upscale steakhouse and seafood restaurant built around meticulous execution, attentive service, and a deep respect for premium ingredients. Led by Chef Shawn Heine, the menu highlights prime steaks, fresh seafood, and thoughtful preparations designed to balance refinement with approachability. A robust wine program plays a central role in the experience, complemented by a polished lounge featuring handcrafted cocktails, a cigar patio, and rotating midweek specials. The overall atmosphere feels confident and composed, making it a natural choice for celebratory dinners, business meals, or an elevated evening out downtown.
Named Best Fried Chicken in Kentucky by Southern Living, this Southern Bourbon Bistro features over 550 bourbons, ryes, and whiskeys with farm-fresh ingredients and classic southern cooking inspired by Charleston and New Orleans with Kentucky infusion. Five dining rooms including main floor and four upstairs spaces, plus a hidden speakeasy-style "Gangster" party room behind a secret door paying homage to Newport's "Sin City" history, delivering unparalleled southern culture, hospitality, and flavors of the Bluegrass State and Deep South.
Thoughtfully designed wine bar and restaurant with locations in Covington, Kentucky and Cincinnati, Ohio, offering the largest selection of wine by the glass in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati with a rotating collection from across the globe. Features seasonal favorites, timeless classics, and boutique hard-to-finds served alongside wine-friendly snacks and petite entrees that change with the seasons, all delivered by friendly, knowledgeable staff passionate about wine and perfect pairings.
Locally owned since 2006, Sweet Basil has been Northern Kentucky's quiet answer to authentic Thai and fresh sushi for nearly two decades — tucked into a Crescent Springs strip while the chains around it cycle in and out. Family-run, independently owned, one location. The kitchen does Thai classics and sushi under the same roof, with a heat scale that actually means something. Carry-out is efficient. Dine-in gives you the full picture.
Opened in October 2023 by three women united by their love of Thai food and culture—Anya Hoffman, Wun Woon, and head chef Premmy—Thai Pavilion brings authentic Thai cuisine to Covington's Scott Street. The restaurant serves traditional dishes like pad thai, red curry, pad kee mao (drunken noodles), khao soi, and massaman curry, with customizable spice levels that can satisfy everyone from mild preferences to "thermonuclear" authentic Thai heat. Named after the Thai cultural concept of pavilions as community gathering places, the restaurant has quickly become a downtown lunch favorite for neighboring office workers and a destination for Northern Kentucky foodies seeking genuine Thai flavors.
Indianapolis' oldest restaurant, serving continuously since 1894 from the cellar of the Athenaeum, the German Renaissance Revival landmark built as Das Deutsche Haus and designed by the firm of Bernard Vonnegut, grandfather of Kurt. The dining room is beamed and paneled, hung with steins and painted German proverbs, with a brick corridor of mounted game and state coats of arms leading to the Kellerbar. The kitchen still cooks the old menu: rouladen, schnitzel, sauerbraten, oxtail soup, house sauerkraut, alongside steaks and seafood. Twelve imported drafts, fifty-plus imported bottles, and live music most nights in the biergarten.
Tousey House Tavern serves elevated Southern cuisine with Kentucky favorites like family-style fried chicken, slow-roasted prime rib, and the legendary Kentucky Hot Brown in a beautifully restored 1822 Federalist home. Located in historic Burlington and part of the bourbon-focused B-Line experience, this intimate restaurant combines white-tablecloth service with Southern hospitality, generous portions, and weekend bourbon specials in a charming setting that's been welcoming guests for over 200 years.
Rooted in the owners' family ties to Bologna, Italy's culinary capital, this downtown trattoria pairs handmade pastas and wood-fired pizza with warm, unfussy hospitality. Set in the historic 300 Main Street building looking out at Great American Ball Park, it houses what's billed as downtown Cincinnati's first wood-fired pizza oven, tucked behind the bar so guests get a front-row view of each 13-inch pie charring to order. The kitchen leans on serious sourcing, from Eckerlin's beef, pork and veal meatballs to a Bologna Chamber of Commerce-approved Bolognese. Craft cocktails and a curated wine list round out a room that reads casual at lunch and polished by dinner.
Walt's Hitching Post has served legendary smokehouse ribs with secret sauce, salted rye bread, and prime steaks since 1942 in a historic Fort Wright building that started as a 1900s hunting lodge. Now owned by longtime diners who've preserved the original log cabin wall and horse racing theme, this 80+ year institution offers filet mignon, ribeye, and classics like chicken livers alongside live music, valet parking, and that famous tomato garlic dressing in a rustic-chic atmosphere where generations of Kentuckians have celebrated special occasions.
Neighborhood pizza joint and third-place gathering spot in downtown Dayton serving unique wood-fired pizzas (unique thin-crust, square-cut), shareable appetizers, and craft cocktails. The welcoming atmosphere features creative menu items like mortadella schiacciata and garlic confit dip alongside exceptional drinks and attentive service.
Behind a bright red door on the north side of Covington's historic MainStrasse Village, Wunderbar brings authentic German-fusion gastropub dining to Northern Kentucky with legendary face-sized house-made pretzels, customizable sausage plates, and over 40 German and craft beers. This cozy neighborhood dive bar features constantly changing seasonal menus based on fresh ingredients, live music Tuesday through Sunday, and a dog-friendly patio perfect for raising a stein in MainStrasse's cobblestone charm.

A Florence-based taproom and sports bar anchored by one of the largest draft beer selections in Kentucky, 859 Taproom pairs a deep tap list with a full menu that punches above its weight. The kitchen sources beef locally from Whobrey's Farm in Sparta, Kentucky, while the bar pours more than 60 beers on tap alongside an extensive bourbon lineup. Jeff and Mandy took over in September 2021. Jeff spent more than 20 years as an executive chef. Mandy trained restaurant teams as a corporate trainer for Bonefish Grill. The two met years earlier — long before 859 Taproom — when Jeff was cooking in New York City and Mandy was working at AOL, eventually building both a family and a shared path into the restaurant business. The space is built for gathering: 19 TVs, a spacious interior, and outdoor seating that handles everything from casual dinners to game-day crowds.
Blind Squirrel is a bustling sports bar, restaurant, music venue, & destination whose original nest was built in 2017 in Louisville, KY. The local hot spot has now expanded to its second locale in Florence, KY. Our menu boasts an array of shareable appetizers, gourmet burgers, pizzas, soups, salads, & other unique fare including seasonal favorites that are enjoyed inside or out under the breezy palm trees. Our expansive bar offers 36 beers on tap, 100+ bourbons, & every other boozy beverage in between. And, dozens of TVs + a big screen ensure you'll never miss your favorite sports!
Bourbon House Pizzeria brings authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza to Northern Kentucky, with owner Mary Brandstetter recreating the flavors and aesthetic of her hometown pizzerias using fresh, daily-made dough and sauce. Voted Best Pizzeria in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, they also serve wine, bourbon, hoagies, calzones, appetizers, and more, all crafted with the same commitment to quality and authenticity. Two locations: Florence and Newport.
Buckhead Mountain Grill serves classic comfort food, juicy burgers, and fresh steaks in a comfortable mountain lodge atmosphere with Southern-inspired hospitality. Voted Northern Kentucky Magazine's "Best View From a Restaurant," this spot delivers scratch-made food, cold beer, and a taste of the Rockies.
Pizza Today's 2024 Pizzeria of the Year, serving wood-fired artisan pizzas, handcrafted pastas, fresh salads, and house-made meatballs with an extensive wine selection. Italian-inspired menu features antipasti including charcuterie boards, Italian chili, and meatball subs alongside their celebrated wood-fired pizzas and elevated dining experience.
Modern fusion seafood and grill house on the Bellevue waterfront, formerly Enson Harbor and now under new management led by Chef Danny with over 20 years of culinary experience. The menu blends steakhouse comfort with Asian-fusion creativity — customizable seafood boils with sauce and spice level options, hand-cut New York strips, handmade dumplings, ramen, and pho. Lunch focuses on boils, pastas, and blackened chicken salads. Situated in the former Joe's Crab Shack space overlooking the Ohio River with outdoor patio seating and Cincinnati skyline views. Full bar with craft cocktails, wine, and beer plus a dedicated happy hour menu.
This upscale comfort food restaurant in a beautifully renovated MainStrasse Village building serves "one-hour vacations" through scratch-made breakfast, brunch, and lunch. With no freezer or microwave in the kitchen, Cedar sources local ingredients for dishes like the Fat Zachary (chicken, chorizo, and egg in a corn gordita) and the Crabby Ben (jumbo lump crab on Sixteen Bricks sourdough with hollandaise). The Faeth family modeled their attention to detail after Jeff Ruby's, creating an escape where diners can unplug over craft cocktails and elevated comfort food.
One of Cincinnati's oldest continually operating bars, built 1875. Fourth owner Deb Henning and husband Silas purchased in 1985, restored to original look. Famous for three things: Bloody Marys voted #1 in every poll, fresh handmade burgers (never frozen), and the spectacular panoramic view of downtown, Ohio River, and Kentucky from the back deck. No tequila served—Charles Manson was banned after threatening to jump from the patio. George Clooney was a regular during his NKU days. Silas' bean-free Texas chili. Bread from Giminetti, meat from Ebert's in Newport.
Located inside Hotel Covington, Coppin's is a signature gathering spot featuring craft cocktails, a rotating seasonal menu of modern American cuisine, and a vast open dining space and lounge. Committed to culinary innovation and sustainability, they source the finest local and global ingredients while supporting local artisans to create distinctive, unforgettable dining experiences. Bar stays open later than food is served.
Family-owned pizzeria serving Bellevue since 1963, famous for signature hoagies with garlic butter-topped buns, thin-crust pizzas, and strombolis. The casual dine-in spot offers extensive vegetarian and vegan options including plant-based pepperoni and gluten-free crusts.
Frida 602 is a tequila and mezcal bar in Covington's historic Mainstrasse Village serving vibrant Latin street cuisine, fresh corn tortilla tacos, quesadillas, burritos, and bowls with flavors like al pastor, barbacoa, and mezcal-glazed chicken. An extensive agave spirits selection, signature Frida margaritas, and creative dishes like smoked cauliflower tacos and churros round out a menu built for sharing. Named for Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, the restaurant reflects the passion of co-owner Emily Wolff, who along with husband Paul Weckman opened Otto's in MainStrasse at age 22 in 2003 and never left the neighborhood, eventually adding Larry's Dive Bar, The Standard, Mama's on Main, and Frida 602 to create a walkable ecosystem of distinctly different spots that somehow all feel like the same community. The Kahlo influence is everywhere inside Frida, from the bold pink walls and eclectic art to a bathroom wallpapered with a Frida Vogue cover that might be the most Instagram-worthy in Northern Kentucky.
Upscale pub fare with a Cajun flair served in a charming century-old building featuring a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful outdoor patio under an oak tree. Menu ranges from fresh salads and gourmet burgers to outstanding specialty entrees, with a welcoming staff that makes new guests feel at home and regulars feel like family.
Top 3 Best of Cincinnati five years running. Shane Coffey and Kathy McDonald ran the Galactic food truck around Fountain Square and Washington Park for two years before landing it for good on Sixth Avenue, opening the brick and mortar on March 5, 2020, eight days ahead of the shutdown. They never closed. Coffey held executive chef posts in Aspen, New York City, and a private resort in Turks and Caicos before coming home to the area, and the married co-owners both still work the kitchen and the floor. The gluten free rice flour and potato starch breading began as a happy accident picked up while traveling the South and now covers nearly the whole menu, holding its crisp on southern style chicken that runs flavorful over fiery. Smoky ancho chipotle deviled eggs, jackfruit nuggets for the vegetarians, house chipotle honey mustard sold by the pint, and a Beer Can Collection Line of Hamm's, PBR, Little Kings and Old Style. Carbonite Han Solo on the wall, a chicken riding a rocket on the sign, and Coffey's motto, positive will prevail, on everything else.
Family-owned and operated in historic downtown Georgetown since 2008, this rambling sports bar and grill moved into its current building in 2016, nearly double the size of the original, pairing exposed brick, wood beams, and bourbon-barrel accents with a lively, TV-lined room. The 100-plus-item menu runs from cheesesteaks, strombolis, and burgers to a standout order of fresh jalapeño canoe poppers and locally loved wings. Forty rotating Kentucky craft taps, seasonal cocktails, and a full bar anchor the drink list. Weekly trivia, monthly Pint Nights, and summer live music round out a genuine small-town gathering spot with deep community roots.
Bar and grill in former Studebaker dealership blending hometown comfort with lively atmosphere in historic downtown Lawrenceburg. Cozy indoor dining with large bar area featuring community tables, plus expansive turf patio with outdoor bar hosting live music on weekends. 18 draft beers on tap, wide selection of seltzers, and signature cocktails. Menu includes handcrafted burgers, smoked wings, cajun pasta, cordon bleu sandwich, Brussels sprouts, and Icehouse tots. Dog-friendly outdoor seating with astroturf. Opened July 2022.
Named for owner Brad Wainscott's daughter and family black lab, Libby's Southern Comfort brings award-winning Southern cuisine to Covington's Duveneck Square in a restored industrial space that's home to the original Cheerwine Bourbon Slush. With goetta hush puppies made from Glier's Goetta, special-recipe fried chicken with hot honey, fresh oysters shucked to order, and fried green tomatoes piled with pimento cheese and bourbon onion jam, this family-founded casual eatery pairs comfort food at its best with a vintage bourbon collection and rotating specialty slushes on a year-round dog-friendly patio where "come as you are" isn't just a vibe—it's a promise, with all bread from Sixteen Bricks and oatmeal cream pies that beat Little Debbie every time.
Historic neighborhood tavern serving classic American comfort food, draft beer, and generous sandwiches in a cozy log cabin atmosphere.
The only self-pour taproom on the Grand Strand, where forty taps line the wall and you pour your own. Owners Erin Carachilo and George Eddis met working in Philadelphia restaurants before settling on this stretch of coast, and both influences show on the menu: fried flounder platters, shrimp and grits, and fried green tomatoes sit alongside cheesesteak egg rolls and flatbreads. The house signature is a mac and cheese flight served three ways, topped with chicken and bacon, chopped brisket, and blackened shrimp. A vaulted, string-lit room under a mile from the ocean, with an onsite room for private events.
This fresh and modern bistro, café, and market from the team behind Jefferson Social and Incline Public House specializes in pressed paninis, fresh salads, gourmet soups, and breakfast favorites like chicken and waffles with hot honey. Pair your meal with La Terza coffee, craft beer, or selections from their mimosa and Bloody Mary bar. Walk-up counter service keeps things casual at this Newport spot near the Aquarium and Levee.
Detroit-style and New York-style pizzeria by brothers Jared and Nicolas Wayne with partner Jake Goodwin. Original Taglio location opened 2016 serving square Detroit-style pies with caramelized cheese edges alongside traditional New York slices. Fresh ingredients with curated wines, craft beers, and cocktails. Full menu including appetizers, salads, and gelato available for dine-in, delivery, and pickup. FC Cincinnati Pub Partner with sports viewing. Private dining room seats 16 with two TVs.
Thai Tea House brings a dual personality to Florence—daytime cafe serving bubble teas, slushies, and specialty coffees with over a decade of experience, transforming into a Thai street food spot by evening. Owner Scarlett Stander's taro slushie has earned fan-favorite status, while traditional Thai beverages made with sweetened condensed milk offer a sweeter, bolder take than their American counterparts. Add boba for bursts of flavor that balance the richness, then stick around for dinner when Thai small bites and entrees take over the menu.
Gastropub housed in a historic 1875 Italianate building owned by Ian Hall, featuring rotating seasonal menus with locally sourced ingredients and scratch cooking. The open kitchen showcases chef-driven dishes alongside 12 rotating craft beer taps, house-made cocktails using premium spirits and fresh syrups, and boutique wines. Multiple dining spaces include a 120-seat dining room, outdoor cafe, heated patio, and private event rooms.
Women-owned and veteran-owned wine bar on 6.5 acres featuring international wines, top-shelf tequila, Kentucky bourbon, and a newly opened bistro serving elevated comfort food. Located in a restored historic veterinary clinic (operational for 57 years), the charming venue offers wine flights, charcuterie boards with artisanal meats and cheeses, and bistro specials like NY Strip steak dinners. Features live music on weekends, happy hour specials, themed events like Singo Bingo and board game nights, plus beautiful outdoor patios perfect for unwinding.
A converted 1930s filling station and garage turned vibrant neighborhood restaurant in Covington's MainStrasse Village. The kitchen centers on house-smoked meats — brisket, pulled pork, lamb shoulder, turkey — built into creative sandwiches, rice bowls, and shareable plates with global accents. The KY Hot Brown and Goetta Chopped Cheese nod to regional roots, while the smoked lamb pita and cauliflower shawarma stretch the menu wider. Weekend brunch draws crowds for huevos rancheros and brisket benedict. The original garage canopies frame a spacious outdoor patio. A well-curated cocktail program rounds out the experience.
Family-owned estate winery on a serene 36-acre horse farm featuring award-winning estate wines, handcrafted beers, and Kentucky bourbon alongside farm-inspired bistro cuisine. The restored 1842 George Vest House (National Register of Historic Places) overlooks rolling vineyards and horse pastures with live music in the outdoor pavilion and vintage barn tasting room. Chef Hipp E's Cocina Loca serves a changing menu of signature salads, flatbreads, chicken cordon bleu, pork tenderloin, ribs, brisket, and the best prime rib in town, plus Sunday brunch with mimosa flights and Bloody Marys.
A West Chester neighborhood institution since 1972, when Al and Dori Lang first opened the doors. Cincinnati native Jim Schmalz purchased the saloon in 1983 after years of pursuit—he'd previously owned Barleycorn's in the mid-'70s. What started as a 44-seat bar with a small porch has grown into a sprawling entertainment destination with multiple patios, 20 flat-screen TVs, a tiki bar, and sand volleyball courts. Award-winning BBQ ribs and the prime rib sandwich draw regulars, while live music, cornhole leagues, and private event space make this more than just a restaurant.
Bob Chinn and his daughter Marilyn spent four years scouting seafood houses across the country before opening a 175-seat restaurant in a shuttered Wheeling building two days before Christmas in 1982. The porch was enclosed by the late eighties and the room grew to 650 seats, feeding close to a million guests a year. Bob died in 2022 at 99; Marilyn Chinn LeTourneau runs it now with her daughters. Fish is flown in daily through O'Hare, the catch is posted at the front door, king crab and garlic buns anchor the menu, and the Hawaiian-shirt servers and Mai Tais in plastic cups are part of the tradition.
Named for the creek that once ran through what is now Independence, Kentucky — est. 1837 on the sign out front — Crewitts Creek Kitchen & Bar is a family-friendly American restaurant and sports bar in Independence known for specialty Mac N Cheese flavors, burgers, sandwiches, slow-cooked baby back ribs, and weekend brunch. Fresh scratch kitchen with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere, serving as the go-to destination for sports viewing.
A Fort Thomas fixture since 1968, this long-running neighborhood tavern has remained a consistent presence in the community for decades. Acquired in 2010 by Irishman Patrick Casey, the space blends bar and kitchen with a budget-friendly menu that includes pizza, calzones, wings, burgers, and sandwiches. The bar anchors the room, supported by a full drink lineup, multiple TVs, and a steady schedule of trivia, karaoke, and live entertainment. Outdoor patio seating and delivery round out the offering, giving it a broad local footprint that extends beyond just dine-in.
Relaxed joint serving pizza, hoagies, grinders, calzones, and other comfort food with beer, wine, and cocktails. Family atmosphere is front, sports bar in the back with outdoor seating.
Founded in 1991 by Tami Ursich, who started in the old railroad depot with eight employees and moved to the Higgins Avenue building in 1997. The name came from family grandfather Homer Phillips, who suggested it because iron horse is what train engines were once called, and an engine is a workhorse. Still one owner, one location, and around ninety Missoulians on staff. Four outdoor sections, a deep board of Montana taps, and a kitchen that names its suppliers, from Daily's bacon to Wheat Montana breads. Downtown's default for a sandwich and a local pint.
Opened in 2025 by a local father-and-son duo, this Union Promenade spot brings a championship course indoors. State-of-the-art simulators load more than 2,000 courses and double as screens for Mario Kart, watch parties, and workout classes. Two pool tables, darts, a jukebox, and a board game collection fill the rest of the room, and leagues are forming for both pool and darts. The kitchen runs golf-punned pub fare: sixteen-inch pizzas, burgers, wings, and a Sunday brunch buffet. Live music every Saturday, karaoke on Fridays, and a craft bin with coloring books for kids.
Located at the base of the iconic Roebling Suspension Bridge in Covington, The Gruff is an independently owned brick oven pizzeria and bar opened in January 2015 by husband-and-wife team Kristin and Avram Steuber, who previously operated Twin Bistro and Catering in Covington. The family-friendly spot — named after "Three Billy Goats Gruff" as a nod to the Steubers' three kids — serves Neapolitan-style pizzas, deli-inspired sandwiches, and craft salads alongside a full bar with rotating local craft beers. A retail market and bottle shop on site carry local beer and boutique wine. Situated at street level beneath the Roebling Bridge approach, The Gruff is easy to miss — tucked into the hillside with the city just out of frame, close enough to feel it but not quite see it from the patio. Service animals only.
Family-friendly neighborhood taphouse and restaurant. Rotating taps featuring local and national craft breweries, bottle shop. Full kitchen with military-themed menu. Consciously sourced ingredients, items fried in beef tallow and pure olive oil. Menu: Platoon Poke Bowl (ahi tuna, mango, avocado, edamame, crispy wontons), Combat Crunchers (Korean beef bulgogi bowl, kimchi, spicy mayo), unique Philly cheesesteak, Battalion Battered Haddock, Ranger Reserve burger (brisket-chuck blend). Chicken bites flash-fried in beef tallow (Buffalo, Garlic Parm). Tactical Tallow Fries, Philly Fort Fries (ribeye, Cheez Whiz). Vegetarian and gluten-free options. Kids menu includes toy. Dedicated kids area, games. Monthly trivia, Euchre, poker nights.
Created by two friends who saw what Covington was missing, The Well is an unpretentious neighborhood patio bar where everyone—friends, kids, dogs—is welcome with open arms. Chef Mitch Arens (former Hotel Covington exec) brings his New Orleans-trained palate to Beards & Bellies BBQ, serving elevated bar bites like goetta balls, lamb birria coneys, and Gulf shrimp po'boys from a fast-casual kitchen window, while the bar pours craft cocktails and local brews in an industrial-chic space with exposed brick, astroturf patio fire pits, big screens for game days, and regular entertainment from trivia nights to live music.
Boone County's first pizza restaurant, family-owned and operated at the same location for over six decades by Tom and Marian Schwartz and their nine children, now entering third-generation family tradition. Features homemade fresh crusts and sauces daily, including five-generation family spaghetti sauce recipe brought from Italy by Tom's grandmother Magdaline Marckesano, with reputation built on good food and old-fashioned hospitality, offering dine-in with patio seating, live music, delivery, and takeout.
Third-generation Williamson family operation since 1968. Mediterranean-inspired menu with signature sourdough-crust pizzas, famous subs, pasta, and an extensive wine list. Over 50 years serving Piqua.
Authentic 1950s modular stainless steel diner custom-built by founders Steve and Barbara Caudill, inspired by Route 66 road trips and post-WWII nostalgia. Elevated classic diner menu featuring breakfast all day (biscuits and gravy, French toast, waffles), burgers, Indiana pork tenderloin sandwiches, Grandma's meatloaf, devil eggs delight, and homemade berry cheesecake. Part of 4 Speed on 50 Auto Park complex celebrating automobile history with classic car in parking lot, vintage memorabilia throughout, and neighboring Amoco station. "Classy Food, Classic Cars" tagline. Opened 2023.
Chef Edward Lee's flagship fine dining destination in the heart of Old Louisville, housed in a charming historic carriage house. The tasting menu celebrates seasonality with ingredients from the restaurant's own greenhouse and Kentucky farms. Lee's cooking blends his Korean-American heritage with Southern traditions—a style that has earned six James Beard Award nominations and features in Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and The New York Times. Reservations required; an intimate space for special occasions.
Founded 2011 in OTR by Jared Wayne, Billy Draznik, and Sam Ginocchio. Brother Nick Wayne joined as co-owner. Built tables from a single log, made their own charcuterie, created root beer in-house. Pizza oven imported from Naples. OTR location closed 2020 after 9-year run; Madeira location (opened 2014) continues strong. Wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, fresh pasta, housemade everything. Also operates Taglio (OTR & Columbia Tusculum). Madeira location offers Roman-style thin crust option unavailable elsewhere. Mom's tomato sauce recipe at the heart of everything.
Award-winning Mediterranean wine bar owned by Dan and Lana Wright serving vibrant small plates since 2011. Executive Chef Joe Bedel's seasonal menu features fresh local produce from weekly farmer deliveries including signature fattoush salad, wood-grilled octopus, charcoal-grilled short ribs, ricotta with honey, and celebrated falafel. Recently doubled capacity by expanding into former Senate space with quieter dining room, eight-person booths, and outdoor seating. Named #2 Best Restaurant by Cincinnati Magazine and People's Best New Chef Great Lakes.
Acapulco in Lawrenceburg serves up hearty Mexican favorites in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that suits families, friends, and casual dinners alike. Guests enjoy a variety of menu staples like flavorful enchiladas, sizzling fajitas, and fresh tacos, paired with cold drinks in a no-frills setting. Its local charm and approachable pricing make it a reliable choice for authentic Mexican fare in southeastern Indiana.
Acapulco Mexican Restaurant brings bold, authentic Mexican flavors to Northern Kentucky with a menu of classic tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and margaritas in a lively, casual setting. Locals appreciate its generous portions, vibrant presentation, and family-friendly atmosphere that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or celebrations. The friendly staff and festive environment make it a popular pick for both dine-in and takeout.
A modern Italian restaurant and wine bar centered on seasonal cooking, thoughtful technique, and an inviting neighborhood atmosphere. The menu balances refined pastas and classic Italian flavors with a strong wine program, while outdoor patio seating makes it an easy gathering place in warmer months. Polished but approachable, it's designed for lingering meals with friends and family rather than rushed dining.
Modern fine-dining destination in Madison Square, opened March 2024. Seasonal contemporary American menu emphasizes prime meats and sustainably sourced seafood—Wagyu sirloin, Chilean sea bass, lamb chops. Globally inspired shareable plates encourage exploration. Stunning 8,000+ sq ft space with open kitchen. VIP service standard; chef's table available by phone reservation. Complimentary valet Friday–Saturday, parking garage entrance on P1 North.
A garden-style restaurant and bar tucked into the heart of Over-the-Rhine, offering an upscale yet relaxed setting for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Surrounded by greenery and anchored by a spacious outdoor patio, the space blends a neighborhood feel with thoughtfully prepared food, craft cocktails, beer, and wine. The menu balances approachability and creativity, with gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, making it well-suited for casual meals, celebrations, and larger gatherings.
Chef-owned Argentine-Italian restaurant bringing South American flair to Hyde Park Square for over a decade. Chef Alfio Gulisano, born in Buenos Aires with Italian heritage, crafts dishes honoring both culinary traditions through handmade pastas, signature raviolis, hand-cut steaks, and authentic empanadas in four rotating styles. Menu highlights include braised short ribs with gnocchi, pistachio-crusted salmon, grilled romaine Caesar, and French-cut lamb chops with mint chimichurri. Three in-house sommeliers curate extensive 350-bottle wine list while skilled bartenders craft cocktails like signature Maple Manhattan and classic Negroni. Six-course Chef's Tasting Menu offers intimate culinary journey through Italian and Argentine flavors. House-made desserts include legendary bourbon-soaked chocolate cake and apple bread pudding. Co-owners Jennifer Birt and Wine Director Michelle O'Brien ensure warm hospitality matches exceptional cuisine. Intimate upscale atmosphere perfect for romantic evenings and celebrations.
Veteran-owned and family-operated since 2016, this chef-driven dinner spot in Floyds Knobs is helmed by Executive Chef Alberto Papsodero, who built his reputation running Italian kitchens in Jeffersonville and Corydon. The menu leans into composed dishes — beef medallions, lobster ravioli, chicken Florentine, calamari — backed by weekly chef specials and a strong wine list. Portions are generous; entrees and salads are shareable. One house-made vinaigrette, housemade bread, and a kitchen that treats every plate as a reason to come back.
Family entertainment meets quality food at this Anderson Towne Center destination. The menu goes well beyond typical bar fare with inspired appetizers, gourmet burgers, seafood dishes, and hearty entrees. Thirty quality beers on tap rotate regularly alongside frozen drinks and craft cocktails. TVs throughout make it game-day central, while the live stage hosts local musicians. Kids love the arcade with games for all ages, plus soft-serve ice cream. The spacious patio welcomes groups for Sunday brunch or pre-movie dinners. A proud part of Anderson Township's community-focused dining scene.
Neighborhood institution since December 1982, affectionately known as "ATP" or "The Pub." Now under new ownership with improvements while maintaining the hometown bar feel. An array of burgers and sandwich options, countless appetizers, and daily homemade soups have built a loyal following over four decades. The ATP salad with sun-dried tomato vinaigrette is a sleeper hit. Outdoor patio with greenery-covered seating, live music, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Family-owned Lebanese and Mediterranean restaurant from the Hajjar family, established 1999. Brothers Andy and Majed Hajjar carry family recipes from Zahle, Lebanon, dating to their grandfather's arrival in America in 1918. Started as Andy's Deli in Walnut Hills. Fresh ingredients prepared from scratch daily. House-baked pita bread. Menu features Shish Tawook, Shawarma, Shish Kabob, Lamb Shank, Lebanese Zaatar Pizza, Hummus, Tabouli, Grape Leaves, Spanakopita, Mushroom Saute, and Kibbeh. Award-winning cuisine recognized by Christ Hospital as heart-healthy. Full bar with 16 craft beers and Lebanese wine selection. Baklava and Lebanese coffee. Belly dancing on weekends.
A Cincinnati institution that’s been pouring drinks and making memories since 1861, widely recognized as the city’s oldest bar. Set inside historic 1830s buildings, it blends deep-rooted history with a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere where first-timers feel like regulars and regulars feel like family. The food has become as much a part of the legacy as the bar itself, featuring locally sourced, award-winning comfort fare served casually across the barroom, upstairs dining rooms, and a covered courtyard that helped define downtown outdoor dining.
Authentic Mediterranean restaurant showcasing flavors of Turkey, Greece, Lebanon, and broader Middle East. Owner Mehmet from Istanbul brings decades of European culinary expertise to Montgomery. Menu features generous portions of classics like lamb shish kebabs, Adana kebabs, stuffed eggplant, grilled salmon, mixed kofte, falafel, hummus with warm pita, stuffed grape leaves, tabbouleh, and fried calamari. Appetizer selections include haydari yogurt with walnuts and dill, ezme spicy vegetable spread, white bean salad, and muhammara. Signature pistachio baklava and house-made desserts provide sweet finale. Wine room seats 19 guests while event room accommodates up to 36, with capability for parties of 130. Full bar features Turkish wines, Greek spirits, and Moldovan selections. Enclosed outdoor terrace offers European-style courtyard dining. Warm hospitality creates homey yet refined atmosphere perfect for leisurely celebrations.
A Hyde Park institution for over half a century, this location at Edwards Road has operated continuously since 1947—first as Allen E. Bradford Restaurant, then Apke's Grill (1948), Art's (1956), and finally Arthur's in the 1970s. Current owners Susan Selzer, Joe Santorelli, and BJ Hughes started as bussers and servers in the early 1990s while in college, eventually managing the restaurant before buying it from their bosses. The menu centers on half-pound burgers cooked to order, famous fried cheese, and fish and chips. The signature "Burger Madness" special runs Sundays and Tuesdays in Hyde Park. Walls are painted with faces of regulars, and only local beers flow from the taps. The Anderson location opened in September 2014.
Family-owned restaurant with two locations serving fresh sushi rolls, Thai curries, and Asian fusion dishes in a casual dining atmosphere. The Crestview Hills and Hyde Park (Cincinnati, Ohio) locations offer extensive menus featuring both traditional Thai favorites and creative sushi combinations. Advertises, "The Way It Is Made in Thailand!" and "Best Sushi in the Tri-State!"
A proud member of the Oakley community since 2003, this sister restaurant to Ambar India in Clifton has earned a devoted following for what many call the best halwa dessert between the Ohio River and Dayton. The lunch buffet draws crowds for its rotating selection of fresh curries, tandoori dishes, and vegetarian specialties. Fresh-made garlic naan, chicken shahi korma with cheese and golden raisins, and the signature chicken tikka masala keep regulars coming back. The cozy atmosphere fills with the aroma of authentic Northern Indian spices the moment you walk in. Family-owned and operated with the same quality and consistency that made Ambar famous.
The original location where it all began in 2012, putting Over-the-Rhine on the culinary map. Mexican street fare featuring made-from-scratch tacos, house-made tortillas, and seasonal margaritas. Selection of over 100 tequilas and American whiskeys pays homage to the Bakersfield sound—that raw blend of country and rock 'n' roll. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Rooftop seating adds to the vibrant atmosphere where friends gather at high-tops and couples squeeze into booths.
Opened December 2021 by Yolo Restaurant Group—Ed Biery and local restaurateurs Trang Vo and Tobias Harris of Lalo/Huit Group. Indoor food park atmosphere with container-style counter, vintage trailer ordering station, picnic tables, fake turf floors, and string lights. Scratch kitchen serves imaginative tacos (including birria), burgers, chicken, hot dogs, and bowls with signature salsas. Colorful mural art throughout. Separate event space with stage available for private parties.
A laid-back NuLu Italian spot born from two Kentucky friends who noticed no Louisville restaurants were making fresh pasta daily. Housemade pasta is the star—try the orecchiette with Jake's sausage from Bardstown. Their Caesar salad is legendary, often called the best in Louisville. Brick oven pizzas, seasonal shared plates, and a smart cocktail program round out the menu. Located in the AC Hotel with a sleek, modern dining room perfect for date nights or groups.
Craft barbecue joint smoking authentic low-and-slow meats with real wood smokers. Tender brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and smoked turkey headline the menu alongside pulled pork and Cincinnati hot links. Standout sides include rich, meaty beans with stew-like depth and cornbread served with salted cinnamon sugar butter. House-made sauces range from classic Bee's BBQ to Carolina Gold and fiery Garlic Ghost. The OTR location offers cozy dive-bar vibes with late-night service, while Madisonville keeps it classic carry-out style—both serving until they sell out daily.
Craft barbecue joint smoking authentic low-and-slow meats with real wood smokers. Tender brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and smoked turkey headline the menu alongside pulled pork and Cincinnati hot links. Standout sides include rich, meaty beans with stew-like depth and cornbread served with salted cinnamon sugar butter. House-made sauces range from classic Bee's BBQ to Carolina Gold and fiery Garlic Ghost. The OTR location offers cozy dive-bar vibes with late-night service, while Madisonville keeps it classic carry-out style—both serving until they sell out daily.
Historic farm-to-table restaurant in a 1796 building on the banks of the Ohio River, constructed on land granted to a Revolutionary War veteran and listed on the National Registry of Historic Sites. The building survived being set on fire during the 1862 Battle of Augusta and the Great Flood of 1937, serving over the centuries as a residence, general store, pharmacy, and ferry office with views of the still-operating Augusta Ferry. Reopened in 2017 by Lance and Lalani Bates, featuring seasonal menus with locally sourced ingredients, extensive bourbon selection, craft cocktails, rustic dining room with hive-shaped lighting, second-floor river-view balcony, weekend brunch, and live entertainment, serving signature dishes including Kentucky Hot Brown, charcuterie boards, filet, pork chops, and the Beehive Burger.
A scratch Italian kitchen with roots going back to 2010 in downtown New Albany — where it operated first as Connor's Place, then La Bocca, then Bella Roma beginning in 2014. Recently relocated to the Jeffersonville riverfront, it brought its following with it. All pasta and sauces made fresh daily; when dishes sell out, they're gone. The menu is classic Italian-American without shortcuts: veal parmigiana, chicken piccata, chicken saltimbocca, seafood linguini, tiramisu, and housemade cannoli. Small room, intimate feel.
Small, family-owned Italian restaurant in downtown New Albany since 2010. All pasta and sauces made from scratch daily—demand often exceeds supply, with certain dishes selling out by evening's end. Classic Italian menu done right: veal parmigiana, chicken saltimbocca, chicken piccata, and house-made cannoli and gelato. Intimate dining room adds to the charm, making guests feel like they've stepped into an Italian family kitchen. Warm bread served with true marinara. BYOB-friendly atmosphere with outdoor sidewalk seating available.
Bender's Pub Grub operates out of Alexandria Brewing Company, but make no mistake — this is chef Shawn Weinbender's show. The menu is scratch-made southern comfort food that regularly surprises people who showed up expecting bar snacks. The smoked wings with house-made Alabama White sauce have their own following, and the chicken and waffles and shrimp and grits get mentioned in the same breath as the best versions in the area. $6 Wing Wednesdays keep the regulars coming. Live music, a full craft beer tap list from Alexandria Brewing, and a backroom with arcade games and pinball round out the experience. The kind of place you stumble into for a beer and leave wondering why you waited so long.
Local sports bar opened June 2019 by Matt Berding (Badin High School 2000) and Robert MacKendrick (Fairfield High School 1999) in the Village Green development. The space previously housed Symmes Tavern and Roc's Grill & Bar—Berd's honors the legacy with "Symmes Tavern Ribs" on the menu. Focused on being a community gathering place with high-quality bar food: wings, homemade pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and apps like cheese moons and egg rolls. The tap list features local craft from Municipal and Fretboard alongside domestic staples. Features a spacious patio, private event room ("Berd's Nest" for up to 50 guests), and TVs throughout for game day.
Situated on Madison's hilltop, this is one of the few full-service Italian kitchens in the region south of Corydon. The menu draws from traditional Italian-American staples — eggplant parmigiana, veal parmigiana, puttanesca, chicken gnocchi, manicotti, seafood linguini — with homemade marinara and complimentary seasoned bread on arrival. Open daily for lunch and dinner. The kitchen leans on fresh, market-sourced ingredients; portions are generous. A full bar, outdoor seating, and a relaxed atmosphere make it a viable anchor for the Madison dining scene.
Not your typical Cincinnati chili parlor. Since 1969, Blue Ash Chili has made its premium chili using the same family recipe with top-quality ingredients—not too spicy, served Cincy-style from cheese coneys up to 6-ways with fresh jalapeños and fried bottle caps. The small-town diner feel keeps regulars coming back, but it's the famous double-deckers, hearty breakfasts, and creative menu that set it apart. Featured on Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives" in 2010, it was also named Official Chili of the WEBN Fireworks + Cincinnati Riverfest that same year.
Owner Curtis Bonekemper — “Bones” — spent six years building a following via food truck before opening this Montgomery brick-and-mortar. The commitment carried over: 100% grass-fed and finished Black Angus beef, local sourcing, and careful cooking. Patties come in quarter, third, or half-pound sizes with specialty builds or full customization. A vegan burger and salmon burger round out the menu for non-beef eaters. Cozy space (48 capacity max) with a good beer and wine selection. The Oakley second location has since closed; this is the one.
Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey brings modern American frontier cooking to Union, Kentucky, where Chef Christian Gill (a Guy's Grocery Games winner) crafts made-from-scratch biscuits using his grandmother's recipe alongside bold dishes like the Mother Load, Rhine Poutine, and their signature fried chicken biscuit. This restaurant pairs comfort food with bourbon and whiskey in a casual atmosphere, serving breakfast and lunch Wednesday through Sunday. Boomtown offers a taste of Southern hospitality with creative twists on classic comfort dishes.
Craft pizzas, smashed burgers, wings, and sandwiches in a pub-style atmosphere. Named in memory of owners' longtime canine companion. Buffalo chicken and BBQ Dad Bod pizzas are local favorites. Dog-friendly outdoor patio. Consistently praised for cleanliness, friendly service, and "big city vibe" in small-town Covington.
Bourbon House Pizzeria brings authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza to Northern Kentucky, with owner Mary Brandstetter recreating the flavors and aesthetic of her hometown pizzerias using fresh, daily-made dough and sauce. Voted Best Pizzeria in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, they also serve wine, bourbon, hoagies, calzones, appetizers, and more, all crafted with the same commitment to quality and authenticity. Two locations: Florence and Newport.
Founded 2010 by former Cincinnati Bengal Dhani Jones, Caveh Azadeh, and NiKo Grammas. Named for friend Kunta Littlejohn who said "If you wanna be somebody, you gotta rock a bow tie"—when Kunta was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, they created Bow Tie Cause supporting Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Managing Partner Heather Turner (Mt. Adams resident) joined 2013. Only café in Cincinnati pouring Intelligentsia coffee daily. Fresh Sixteen Bricks bread. Casual bistro fare—breakfast, lunch, weekend brunch. Three-tier patio is dog friendly. Coffee-inspired craft cocktails. Steps from Eden Park, Art Museum, and Playhouse.
New Orleans-inspired Creole gastropub from owner Joby Bowman and Chef Michael Shields, established 2012. Relocated 2018 to expand kitchen and focus on authentic Creole cuisine. Scratch-made menu features 12-hour dark roux Chicken & Sausage Gumbo, Pasta Monica, Alligator and Waffle, Fried Green Tomatoes, Jambalaya, and Bananas Foster Bread Pudding. Twenty-three craft beers on tap, craft cocktails. Live music featuring blues and boogie-woogie piano. Sunday brunch with performances. Outdoor garden room, private event space for up to 100. BrewRiver Stein Club membership available.
Brian and Tracy Teetzen had so much fun building The Cracked Pot that they knew they had more to offer. Their second restaurant, just a few blocks down Central Avenue, lets these two restaurateurs—who met as teenagers working in a restaurant—bring in recipes inspired by their travels and Midwest roots.
Modern steakhouse focused on big steaks and shareable small plates, owned by Ian Hall of The Exchange Pub + Kitchen. The menu features prime cuts with customizable sauces and toppings alongside rotating small plates emphasizing local products, fresh seafood, and modern cuisine. Sunday brunch available, plus private dining spaces including The Lantern Room speakeasy bar and courtyard patio.
Family-owned since 2000. Known for wings—crispy, generous-sized, with dozens of sauce options including signature BBQ garlic nitro and hot BBQ. Full American menu: burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, fried pickles (spears with spicy batter), wedge salads. Extensive bourbon selection—you can buy bottles to take home. Outdoor patio with stage for live music on weekends. Tuesday nights are packed. The kind of neighborhood spot where regulars know the bartenders by name.
Award-winning BBQ ribs and American fare in historic downtown Miamisburg since 1986. Co-founded by Todd Gamble Lyons (1986-2005, deceased 2013), the restaurant was purchased in 2006 by John Forman, a University of Dayton graduate. The 250-seat establishment overlooks the Miami-Erie Canal corridor and railroad—transportation routes that made Miamisburg a hub of commerce since the 1800s. Known for their signature 'Q Sauce' and People's Choice winner at Southwest Ohio Ribfest. Partner Glenn Thomas handcrafted all the woodwork—bar, tables, statues, stained glass—in his basement. Low staff turnover (18 of 40 employees have 5+ years, two with 20+ years). Five consecutive years of double-digit sales growth. Plans for back patio expansion facing the Great Miami River.
Covington RiverCenter's cafe-deli-market hybrid blends fresh-baked daily goods with grab-and-go convenience and a curated selection of beer, wine, and bourbon. From house-made quiche and gourmet sandwiches to unique cookie flavors like bourbon pecan and apple butter, this self-serve spot offers keto and gluten-free options alongside specialty coffee and smoothies. Enjoy your meal at indoor tables or on the outdoor patio with Roebling Bridge views, or browse the market for pantry items and local beverages to take home.
Mediterranean kosher café opened in 2022 by husband-wife team Yair and Lainey Richler in Pleasant Ridge. Yair grew up in Jerusalem managing his parents' bakery; Lainey served seven years in the Israeli army. Pescatarian menu with abundant vegetarian/vegan options from a scratch kitchen—shakshuka (won first place in Yelp's Brunch Battle), Mediterranean breakfast spreads, acai bowls. In-house bakery, specialty coffee bar, curated cocktails. Featured on America's Best Restaurants. Expanding to Blue Ash Rec Center location in 2025.
Clinton County institution across from Cowan Lake for 40+ years. Famous for the Rod Burger and Double Rod Burger—a pound of Angus steakburger served on top of fries. Prime rib Thursday through Saturday. Homemade peanut butter pie and cinnamon rolls for dessert. Rustic knotty pine interior, no-pretense vibe, weekend traffic backs up down the block. Part of RLG Restaurant Group.
Historic riverside restaurant established in the 1930s as a railroad workers' sandwich shop, serving traditional Italian recipes from Barga, Italy, Kentucky classics, and American cuisine with the finest USDA Prime meats and fresh-to-order pasta. Located at the base of Rosemary Clooney Street overlooking the Ohio River beside the Amtrak station, where CSX freight trains roar by within feet of diners enjoying wall-to-wall river views. Features cherry wood bar showcasing classic cocktails and Kentucky bourbon, private dining for events, and a storied history hosting governors, First Lady Hillary Clinton, Miss America Heather French, the Clooney family, and countless celebrities since reopening in 2000 under renowned caterer Jerry Lundergan.
Award-winning steakhouse housed in a historic Montgomery mansion with a storied past as a stagecoach stopover, speakeasy, illegal casino, and gangster hideout. The intimate setting oozes character across three unique dining rooms, three wine cellars, and five private rooms perfect for special occasions. World-class USDA Prime steaks anchor the menu alongside fresh seafood and a raw bar honored as one of Cincinnati's finest. Recently added sushi program features meticulously crafted rolls by seasoned chefs. Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence wine list and live entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings complete the experience. Service leaves guests feeling like royalty in this charming mansion setting where classic elegance meets exceptional hospitality.
Founded in 1979 in downtown Cincinnati, this long-running Italian restaurant was built on a commitment to fresh, scratch-made food and gracious, old-school hospitality. Today, that legacy continues with house recipes rooted in classic Italian-American tradition, blending familiar flavors with a sense of family and nostalgia. The experience feels warm, unpretentious, and grounded in decades of doing things the right way.
Cast Iron Steakhouse serves Certified Angus Beef aged 21-28 days and hand-cut in-house, then seared in cast iron skillets with their secret rub—filets, ribeyes, strips, and Delmonicos cooked to your exact specs. This locally-owned Jeffersonville spot keeps things comfortable and straightforward with everything made from scratch, from house-ground burgers and country fried steak to their famous Dutch oven peach cobbler, all at prices that won't punish your wallet for ordering a proper steak.
Family-owned Venezuelan empanada shop serving authentic South American street food made fresh daily. Specializes in oversized handcrafted empanadas featuring 18 distinctive fillings including traditional options like shredded beef, chicken, and white cheese plus unique Cincinnati fusion flavors like goetta and seafood mix. Each empanada bursts with savory, seasoned fillings prepared with aromatic spices including achiote, cumin, garlic, and peppers. Menu also features authentic arepas, pepitos sandwiches, cachapa corn pancakes, and churros. Complimentary trio of house-made sauces accompanies every order. Casual counter-service atmosphere with limited indoor seating and outdoor picnic tables. Food truck operations supplement brick-and-mortar locations.
Historic 1867 building in the heart of downtown Tipp City, just steps from the Great Miami River bike trail. Eighteen rotating taps showcasing Ohio craft breweries, house-made Cosmopolitan on tap with Ohio-made vodka, craft cocktails, wine, and mocktails. Coffee service and lunch added in 2025—paninis, homemade pop-tarts, pastries. Cozy beer hall, speakeasy-style wine vault, outdoor patio. Long-term goal: transform into a nano brewery using hops from their own Hopyard at Lock 16.
Family-friendly sports bar born from the idea that locally sourced ingredients make the best meals. Business partners Phil Marston and Gary Brock use beef from Bridgetown Finer Meats and buns from Servatii Pastry Shop, purchased fresh daily. Chef-designed menu features creative burgers like the Joey B (Cajun-inspired with pepper jack and Cajun mayo) alongside smoked-then-fried chicken wings with numerous sauce options. Local craft beers on tap from Rhinegeist, MadTree, Rivertown, and Mt. Carmel. Built on the site of the original Chandler's Restaurant, now remodeled and doubled in size.
Family-friendly sports bar born from the idea that locally sourced ingredients make the best meals. Business partners Phil Marston and Gary Brock use beef from Bridgetown Finer Meats and buns from Servatii Pastry Shop, purchased fresh daily. Chef-designed menu features creative burgers like the Westsider and Flying Pig alongside smoked-then-fried chicken wings with numerous sauce options. Local craft beers on tap from Rhinegeist, MadTree, Rivertown, and Mt. Carmel. Second location bringing the same commitment to quality and handcrafted food to Harrison.
A Schnitzelburg institution in the Murrow family for three generations. Check Sumpter opened the tavern in the late 1930s and sold to Joe Murrow Sr., who ran it until 1980 and gave the place its soul — knowing every regular by name. Grandson John Murrow runs it today. Order at the bar, grab a seat on the checkered floor, and wait for your name to be called. The signature chili, bean soup, bratwurst, pan-fried oysters, braunschweiger, and fried chicken are classic Germantown tavern fare at prices that haven't forgotten the neighborhood.
Co-founded in 2017 by Juan Imeroni (Ignite Entertainment) and Alfio Gulisano, both Argentine natives, bringing authentic Buenos Aires flavors to OTR. Gulisano runs the kitchen using his mother's recipes for empanadas—choose from a dozen varieties, from traditional cumin-spiced beef with egg and olives to experimental flavors like mushroom artichoke béchamel. Meats cooked on an open-flame grill in South American tradition. Intimate shotgun-style space typical of OTR buildings, with a back bar and outdoor patio. Named using Argentine slang for "bro" or "buddy."
Housed in a beautifully restored 1874 schoolhouse, this Anderson Township gem has been serving American comfort fare since Gary Sammons opened it in 1997. The historic two-story brick building retains its character with original details, antique school desks as decor, and walls lined with black-and-white photos of early Anderson Township. The menu offers refined American classics—think Clough Burgers, pan-roasted chicken, seafood dishes, and indulgent Derby pie with bourbon sauce. A hand-carved German backbar from the building's previous life as Miss Flo's tavern anchors the cozy room.
A white clapboard building three blocks from Newport's riverfront, Coaches Corner has been owned and operated by Midge and Terry Brewer since 1994. Fresh ground, hand-formed burgers seasoned with the house "magic dust" are the reason people make the trip, and plenty of locals will tell you without hesitation it's the best burger in Northern Kentucky. The bacon mushroom cheeseburger has its own following. Hand-cut fries come regular or Cajun-style, and the outdoor patio with fire pits and live music in the summer makes it a genuine neighborhood destination. Unpretentious, family-run, and exactly what a local burger bar should be.
A food truck parked in Camp Washington on Spring Grove Avenue that opened in May 2025 and has been earning attention fast. Tacos come in at $3 each — al pastor, adobo, chorizo — with birria and burritos drawing the most praise from early regulars. A few outdoor tables on site. The owners are clearly putting their hearts into it, and the Google reviews back that up. One of the most promising new taco operations in Cincinnati, still largely undiscovered.
Sophisticated French-American fine dining in a former Fifth Third bank building with the vault converted into a dining room. Fireplace, full bar, small-town setting with big-city execution. OpenTable named it one of America's 100 Most Romantic Restaurants. English Tea Cake is legendary. Nick Hoover and wife Andrea also own Bodega Wine & Specialty Foods Market next door.
A refined yet approachable French dining experience set in the heart of Over-the-Rhine, offering an intimate atmosphere well suited for unhurried dinners and special occasions. The space feels polished without being formal, creating room to settle in over classic French-inspired dishes, thoughtfully selected wines, and well-crafted cocktails. With a menu built around technique and balance rather than excess, it lends itself naturally to date nights, celebrations, or evenings when the focus is on the table and the company.
Husband-and-wife team Jesus Martinez and Izmene Peredo left careers at Brown-Forman to bring authentic Mexican breakfast culture to Louisville in 2015. Everything is made from scratch daily — there isn't a freezer in any location. The menu celebrates the desayuno tradition with chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, molletes, and café de la olla alongside creative brunch cocktails. Travel + Leisure named the pancakes among the Top 10 in America. The name — slang for doing everything with full effort — honors the hardworking Latino community that inspired it.
Chef-owner Braheam Shteiwi learned the business from his late father, who operated 14 Cincinnati restaurants including Gold Star Chili locations, Caruso's, and Spinning Fork. Court Street Kitchen opened February 2024 in 3CDC's Moore Flats project, serving New American fare in an upscale yet approachable setting. Chef de Cuisine Nott Khonsue (formerly sushi chef at Jeff Ruby's) sources seafood fresh—the branzino arrives as full sides, and oysters are harvested within 48 hours of serving. Features Shteiwi's mother's za'atar recipe in several starters. Adjacent VII Lounge opens nightly at 6pm with its own DJ booth.
Relaxed, indoor-outdoor venue featuring permanent food trucks and a full bar. Features Mad Anthony’s Pizza (cheesy, classic pizza favorites), CSS Empanadas (crispy, flavorful empanadas), and El Jefe’s Cubanos (bold, savory Cuban sandwiches).
Founded 2016 by Jan Collins, inspired by travels through Europe seeking intimate gastropub feel. Also owns Putters Sports Grill and opened adjacent Cozy's Cottage (2014) for breakfast/lunch. Executive Chef Refugio Hernandez leads kitchen with farm-to-table focus. Named "Most Charming Restaurant in Ohio" by LoveFood.com. Converted farmhouse with multiple intimate dining rooms, industrial pub, fireside patio with live entertainment. Build-your-own Bloody Mary bar at brunch. In-house pastry chef creates daily desserts including signature three-tiered carrot cake. 90% local ingredients including draft beers from Cincinnati and Dayton.
10,000-square-foot warehouse-style beer hall in the former Piqua Granite and Marble building, anchoring the Lock 9 Park redevelopment. Six flagship beers including Trinity Haze and Main St., plus a Piqua Pale Ale made with local hops. Full kitchen known for pizzas and creative stouts. Outdoor biergarten overlooking the park.
Crown Restaurant Group's flagship opened in 2018 in the Encore Apartments building. Chef-owner Anthony Sitek trained under Bobby Flay in NYC and brings Mediterranean influences to rustic New American fare. Nearly everything made from scratch in-house. The CRG burger, squid ink pasta, and General Tso's cauliflower wings are standouts. Popular brunch spot with carnitas hash and baked French toast drawing weekend crowds.
Steve Current and Karyn Stillwell-Current met working at The Winds Café—he was the cook, she was the server. They started catering in 1983 and opened this downtown storefront in 1989. Now celebrating 40+ years feeding the village with an upscale gourmet deli featuring international flavors, overstuffed sandwiches, made-from-scratch soups, and legendary desserts. Weekly "A Taste of _____" themed international weekends rotate through Italy, Mexico, India, Greece, Thailand. The go-to caterer for Yellow Springs gatherings big and small. Holiday meals, carrot cake, and daily specials draw regulars from across the region.
Neighborhood brewery opened in 2016 by Eric Bolser and Ron Sanders, specializing in dark and experimental beer styles. The taproom occupies a former car lot in Bellevue, built out largely by the owners themselves; the bar top was reclaimed from a 19th-century Bellevue home. Staples include Kentucky Common, Man on the Moo Milk Stout, and Mayan Sacrifice — a golden stout brewed with ancho and pasilla chilies, cocoa nibs, coffee, and lactose that earned silver medals at the 2023 and 2024 U.S. Open Beer Championship. Darkness Diner, their own permanent food truck, serves the outdoor patio.
Independent craft brewery and taproom along the Ohio River in Cincinnati's easternmost California neighborhood, nicknamed "Cincinnati's Playland." House-brewed mildly-hopped ales, refreshing lagers, ciders, meads, and customizable seltzers rotate alongside a full bar of top-shelf spirits. The award-winning kitchen serves elevated pub fare including wings acclaimed as the tri-state's best, build-your-own pizzas with gluten-free options, the legendary Fried Green Tomato BLT, beer-battered fish and chips, burgers on Cuban buns, and house-made soups. Large-capacity taproom with rentable private event space, performance stage, and sprawling outdoor beer garden overlooking neighborhood baseball fields. Regular entertainment includes live music, Euchre tournaments, trivia nights with the Cincinnati Kelts rugby team, and Third Thursday family arts nights.
Born from the team behind beloved Decca (which closed in 2022), Decade reimagines that spirit in a historic 1870s Butchertown building. New American cuisine with Italian and French influences centers on seasonality—carrot risotto, duck ragu pasta, arancini, and thoughtfully crafted cocktails including NA options. The bi-level space hosts art, live music, and private events. A neighborhood restaurant that feels like a destination, with the same hospitality DNA that made Decca a Louisville institution.
Founded 2019 by Trevor Snowden in the former Wurst Bar space where Delta and Linwood meet—hence the name "Delwood." Latin American-fusion gastropub bringing OTR vibes to the East Side. Snowden's Peruvian mother's heritage infuses the menu: classic double cheeseburger with special sauce, El Jefe burger with salsa criolla and huancaina, spicy fried chicken sandwich with rocoto aioli, tostones, Brussels sprouts with aji verde. Cocktails include Pisco Sours and Caipirinhas. Dog-friendly back patio. Big soccer fans—catch FC Cincinnati and EPL matches on the TVs.
Carrying on a family legacy that began in 1962, Demetrios opened in Covington RiverCenter in December 2024 after relocating from its Cincinnati Golf Manor location operated by owner Carl Vasiliou's parents, Demetrios and Gloria Vasiliou. The family-owned Greek-American diner serves breakfast all day and lunch favorites including gyros, double deckers, burgers, cheese coneys, chili, gravy cheese fries, salads, and wings, embodying the tagline "where Greek food meets American food." Demetrios brings over 60 years of Greek-American comfort food tradition to downtown Covington in a welcoming family dining atmosphere.
A Fort Wright institution since 1977, Dickmann's Sports Barn & Brew has been family-owned from the start. Richard Dickmann came on with his father in 1994 and took over solo in 2003, evolving what was once a neighborhood bar with peanut shells on the floor into Northern Kentucky's go-to sports destination. The wings — particularly the Barnburner — earned best-in-region recognition from the Cincinnati Enquirer and the reputation has stuck. Dickmann also founded Smoke Justis in Covington's Roebling Point District, which tells you everything you need to know about how seriously he takes the food side of this business. More than 35 flat screens inside plus four on the outdoor patio, sand volleyball, a solid craft beer tap list, and a full menu that goes well beyond bar snacks. It's always busy. There's a reason for that.
A full-service American bistro in Mariemont evolved from the original Dilly Deli (1982). Pioneer craft beer bar with 16 taps, wine taps, and adjacent bottle shop. Highly comfortable patio, live music five nights weekly, and Wine Spectator award winner.
A 1940s-era diner that's become a TikTok sensation for half-pound fresh-ground steak burgers and milkshakes so thick you need a spoon. Owner Keith Hardwick runs this mom-and-pop gem that's earned Nextdoor Neighborhood Favorite honors five years running (2019, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024). The BBQ Bacon Cheddar and Portobello Burger draw crowds, while Saturday nights bring slow-smoked ribs. Hand-cut fries and house-made horseradish dip complete the experience. Limited seating means it fills fast—arrive early or use the drive-thru.
Chef-owner Toki Masabuchi opened in Louisville's Highlands in 2009 after running the beloved Maido Essential Japanese. Born in Osaka and educated at Lindsey Wilson College and the University of Louisville, she built her concept from a take-out sushi stand to a regional institution. The menu fuses Japanese classics with Mexican and Western influences—think sushi rolls alongside Asian-inspired tacos and quesadillas. The New Albany location features a robatayaki grill at the bar for charcoal-grilled snacks, with rotating craft beers and an extensive sake selection.
Asian fusion from Earth and Ocean Restaurant Group with fresh seafood and creative sushi. Signature rolls include Hey Vinnie, Bengal Crunch Cat, and Purple Rain. Known for the "Zac Taylor salad" (crispy Brussels sprouts, kale, chile-lime vinaigrette, white wine-poached shrimp) favored by Bengals Head Coach. Menu features Buddha bowls, sesame crusted tuna, miso-glazed cod, crispy chicken tacos, and The Griddy Burger at The Banks location. Fish delivered four times weekly. Founded by Mike Hama and chef Rodelio Aglibot ("The Food Buddha").
Asian fusion from Earth and Ocean Restaurant Group with fresh seafood and creative sushi. Signature rolls include Hey Vinnie, Bengal Crunch Cat, and Purple Rain. Known for the "Zac Taylor salad" (crispy Brussels sprouts, kale, chile-lime vinaigrette, white wine-poached shrimp) favored by Bengals Head Coach. Menu features Buddha bowls, sesame crusted tuna, miso-glazed cod, crispy chicken tacos, and The Griddy Burger at The Banks location. Fish delivered four times weekly. Founded by Mike Hama and chef Rodelio Aglibot ("The Food Buddha").
Asian fusion from Earth and Ocean Restaurant Group with fresh seafood and creative sushi. Signature rolls include Hey Vinnie, Bengal Crunch Cat, and Purple Rain. Known for the "Zac Taylor salad" (crispy Brussels sprouts, kale, chile-lime vinaigrette, white wine-poached shrimp) favored by Bengals Head Coach. Menu features Buddha bowls, sesame crusted tuna, miso-glazed cod, crispy chicken tacos, and The Griddy Burger at The Banks location. Fish delivered four times weekly. Founded by Mike Hama and chef Rodelio Aglibot ("The Food Buddha").
Mexican seafood restaurant specializing in authentic coastal flavors with distinctive nautical-themed decor. "El Barco" means "The Boat," reflecting the restaurant's focus on fresh mariscos including shrimp ceviche, stuffed lobster, seafood enchiladas, and traditional dishes like California burritos and pastor tacos. Menu features customizable seafood boils, grilled fish, and classic Mexican plates. Lively atmosphere enhanced by live Spanish music creates festive backdrop for casual family dining. Complimentary chips, salsa, and cheese dip start every meal. Friendly service and clean, organized interior provide welcoming environment for both seafood enthusiasts and traditional Mexican cuisine lovers.
Family-friendly Mexican restaurant serving authentic cuisine including sizzling fajitas, enchiladas, and margaritas in a welcoming atmosphere.
A long-established Latin-influenced restaurant offering a broad menu of Spanish and Caribbean small plates, entrées, and shareables in a lively, multi-patio setting. Generations of family ownership have built a reputation for vibrant flavors and generous portions, from tapas like empanadas and seafood bites to hearty mains like Cuban-style sandwiches and grilled specialties. Multiple indoor and outdoor dining areas—including private rooms—make it a favorite for gatherings and celebrations, while a full bar complements the eclectic menu.
Since 1995, Louisville's go-to for scratch-made Mexican using locally sourced Kentucky beef and pork. Award-winning margaritas, artisan small-batch tequila and mezcal bar. One of the most vegetarian/vegan friendly restaurants in town—house-made vegan chorizo and vegan queso. Fish tacos are legendary. Happy hour daily 4-6pm. A Louisville institution that's earned 'Best Mexican Restaurant' multiple years running.
Authentic Mexican taqueria tucked in an Erlanger strip mall, serving street tacos, burrito bowls, and tortas with fresh ingredients and homemade hot sauce. The no-frills atmosphere belies the quality of authentic dishes prepared to order by owner Luis Diaz.
Cincinnati's premier food hall in Madisonville's Madison Square development, featuring 8+ locally-rooted restaurant stalls under one roof. Current vendors rotate but have included Four Mile Pig (BBQ), Little Easy (po' boys), Ramundo's Pizzeria, Rokaru Ramen, and others. Expansive indoor/outdoor seating designed for large groups with quiet conversation pockets. Full bar with 48 taps. Live music Fri–Sat, trivia and singo weekdays. Great for remote work with free Wi-Fi and outlets. Cashless ordering—text when ready.
A hidden gem within a hidden gem. Fourth-generation Yellow Springs native Katie Hammond and her parents Jim and Libby built Mills Park Hotel from the ground up, opening in April 2016. Every table and the bar were handmade from trees harvested on the property before construction—look closely and you'll see grey-silver streaks from the limestone bed below. Southern-inspired comfort food with Charleston and New Orleans influences: shrimp & grits with tasso ham gravy, chicken & waffles, biscuits & gravy. Local sourcing from Ohio farms including Peifer Orchards and Richards Maple Syrup. Front porch seating offers the best view in Yellow Springs.
Contemporary American steakhouse opened in 2004 by Jon Zipperstein (CIA-trained chef) and Gregg Pancero. Classic steakhouse offerings—prime steaks, fresh seafood—alongside a complete sushi program in a warm, candlelit atmosphere. Black-and-white photographs of Cincinnati landmarks line the walls. Half-price wine Tuesdays, half-price sushi Wednesdays (bar only), and half-price bar menu Thursdays. Happy hour runs 4–6pm daily. Two private dining rooms accommodate groups from 6 to 75.
Family-owned winery and upscale bistro set on 200 rolling acres of Indiana countryside. Founded by Tom Ertel with vineyards dating to 1999, the winery and restaurant opened in 2006. Award-winning winemaker Brian Ahaus crafts varietals from seven estate-grown grape varieties. The Chateau-styled building features a dining room overlooking the wine production area and vineyards, with patio seating offering panoramic views. The seafood-forward menu includes fresh grouper, jumbo crab cakes, shrimp scampi, and steaks, complemented by complimentary wine tastings. An easy day trip from Cincinnati—about five minutes off I-74.
Family-owned Italian restaurant and bakery tucked into downtown Madeira serving authentic Northern and Southern Italian fare for over twelve years. Owned and operated by the Bassano family, the restaurant features generous family-style portions that border on legendary. On-premise Italian bakery produces fresh breads daily including signature focaccia-style pizza bread with tomatoes, cheese, and herbs, plus decadent desserts like house-made tiramisu and cheesecake. Menu favorites include Mama's Lasagna, butternut squash ravioli, chicken marsala with garlic mashed potatoes, eggplant parmesan, and fettuccine alfredo. Two private dining rooms accommodate rehearsal dinners, corporate meetings, and family gatherings. Beautifully landscaped outdoor patio features Italian mural and stone lighted waterfall. Italian grocery items available for purchase.
Started as founder Mike Marschmann's roaming "Pizza Wagon" at Findlay Market and food truck events before landing this 2014 brick-and-mortar in Cincinnati's oldest surviving firehouse—the 1870 Samuel Hannaford-designed Fire Company 16 building in Walnut Hills. Current owner Sam Dobrozsi (fourth-generation small business owner, former Eli's BBQ team member) acquired it in 2019 and has publicly pledged "never building another Fireside anywhere ever." Wood-fired specialty pies include the Redlegger, Greek, White Pie, and rotating seasonal creations. The Eli's BBQ Pie remains a nod to its lineage. Expansive local craft beer list highlights Cincinnati brewers. Named to Yelp's Top 100 Restaurants in America (2022). Historic industrial-chic space with board games, arcade games, and outdoor picnic tables.
Modern American tavern in Over-the-Rhine reimagining comfort food classics through a 100-percent scratch kitchen with in-house rotisserie and house-butchered meats. The menu pairs handmade pasta with elevated interpretations like OTR Wellingtons and truffle fettuccine, while house-cured bacon and fresh-baked bread showcase meticulous craftsmanship. Reserve cocktails and distinguished bourbon selections recall Cincinnati's golden age hospitality. The warm, vibrant atmosphere balances fine dining refinement with honest, no-nonsense approachability perfect for pre-game bites, date nights, or gathering with friends.
The original Forno—"as close as it gets without taking a plane." Cristian Pietoso, born and raised in Florence, Tuscany, wanted to create a space that reminded him of home. "Oste" means innkeeper in Italian, and that spirit of caring for guests without pretense defines the experience. The custom wood-burning oven is the kitchen's centerpiece, firing Neapolitan-style pizzas at over 900 degrees in just 90 seconds. Rustic, handmade pastas include pappardelle with wild boar ragout and his grandmother's peperonata. The menu marks historically significant items Cristian grew up eating—each holds a special memory. Desserts like Pope's Chocolate Salame and basil panna cotta. Wine list focuses almost exclusively on Italian selections from Tuscany, Piedmont, Sicily, and Veneto. Bolo Tuesday (signature bolognese) and Lasagne Verdi Thursdays are weekly traditions.
The second Forno, bringing that same 'without taking a plane' philosophy to Montgomery's business district. Intimate setting with two bar areas—the main bar and another right next to the pizza oven where you can watch your Neapolitan pizza char at 900 degrees.
Family-owned BBQ restaurant operated by Robert and Tammy Viox; slow-smokes meats including 15-hour pulled pork, tender brisket, smoked turkey, and smoked chicken; award-winning dry-rub wings and fried Brussels sprouts with garlic cream sauce; serves BBQ sandwiches, melts (including brisket cheesesteak), burgers, platters, and three-meat combo; sides include mac and cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, and seasoned fries; drive-thru and catering available.
Chef/Owner/Pitmaster Chris Williams transformed this 150-year-old Germantown building into Louisville's premiere gastropub in 2018. USDA Prime brisket smoked 14 hours, award-winning pork belly chili (double winner of Louisville's Chili Cook-Off), and inventive sandwiches like the Cuban earn Food Network and Cooking Channel features. 15 Leo Weekly Readers Choice awards. BuyBlackLou member. Pay It 'Four'ward community program provides free meals to those in need. Pet-friendly patio.
Neighborhood wine bar and international tapas lounge near Garfield Park honoring the spirit of Frank Daoud—a man who lived with ambition, loyalty, and never-ending generosity. Curated wine selection and craft cocktails paired with thoughtful small plates blending flavors from Frank's favorite destinations: Brazil, Spain, the Mediterranean, and his native Jordan. Menu favors seasonal ingredients and approachable shareable dishes designed for connection. Relaxed, intimate setting where good drinks, good company, and good music come together in genuine hospitality. Perfect for easy evenings, casual dates, or unwinding over a glass or two.
A collaboration between Cincinnati restaurant group Looking Glass Hospitality and Blue Ash-based Fretboard Brewing Company, this gastropub opened in 2019 inside a historic riverfront building in downtown Hamilton. The ground floor taproom showcases visible brewing equipment, while the second-floor dining room offers a quieter atmosphere. A rooftop patio overlooks the Great Miami River. The on-site five-barrel system serves as Fretboard's R&D brewery for small-batch experimental beers.
A Glendale institution in a building that's been standing since the 1840s. Converted to a barbershop and tavern in 1907, operated as a speakeasy during Prohibition, burned and restored in 1992, and currently owned by Joe and Elise Mills since 2016 — Joe spent 37 years across the street at the Grand Finale including nine as co-owner. Sandy Koufax signed his first professional contract here. Reds Hall of Famer Ival Goodman once tended the bar. The walls are covered in license plates from every state and province. The jumbo wings have been on the menu since the '80s alongside an award-winning roasted garlic burger and homestyle comfort food that keeps a fiercely loyal crowd coming back. Outdoor patio.
Connected to the Hilton Garden Inn, this restaurant is co-owned by legendary golfer Frank "Fuzzy" Zoeller and his family in partnership with Indianapolis-based General Hotels Corporation. The New Albany native — who won the 1979 Masters in his first appearance and the 1984 U.S. Open — opened the restaurant in May 2022, filling the walls with photos from his storied career. Fuzzy passed away November 27, 2025 at age 74, leaving behind a legacy that includes this Southern Indiana gathering spot. BBQ favorites, broasted chicken, weekend prime rib specials, and cocktails featuring Fuzzy's Ultra Premium Vodka. While arguably outside the traditional scope of this directory, this listing is included out of respect for Fuzzy Zoeller, a great man whose commitment to his community extended far beyond the course.
A lively sports bar and grill known for hearty comfort food, cold drinks, and a high-energy game-day atmosphere. Guests can enjoy classic bar favorites while catching live sports on multiple screens in a fun, social setting. It’s a go-to destination for casual dining, group outings, and cheering on your favorite teams.
NuLu icon since 2011, housed in a converted auto service garage. Originally founded by Steve Wilson and Laura Lee Brown (21c Museum Hotel). Sold June 2025 to Todd Moore, a Louisville entrepreneur who also owns The Taj bar on East Market Street. Reopened August 22, 2025 with updated food and drink menus. Known for wood-fired brick oven Neapolitan-style pizza, Southern-inspired small plates, and a massive outdoor hangout with ping pong tables and string lights. The iconic crashing-car sculpture remains outside.
Housed in the former Clifton Branch Library that served the neighborhood for 60 years, this upscale-casual gastropub opened just after Thanksgiving 2018 by Dave and Claudia Taylor, who also own Ludlow Garage across the street. The scratch kitchen focuses on American comfort food with high-end flourishes—think hand-cut peppery fries, solid burgers, duck confit pappardelle, and seared scallops. Cocktails carry literary names honoring the building's past, and novels line the bar shelves. The crowning touch is Clifton's first rooftop terrace, offering sweeping views of the Gaslight District below. A perfect pre-show dinner spot before concerts across the street.
Family-owned Italian restaurant where Giovanni himself greets guests and shares stories about family recipes passed down through generations. Everything made from scratch—homemade pasta, sauces, and desserts including tiramisu and cannoli. Known for exceptional lasagna, veal piccata, chicken parmesan, and stuffed shells. Entrees come with house salad and garlic knots. Closes for two months each summer so the family can return to Italy. A beloved West Side institution with generous portions and old-world authenticity.
Goodfellas serves authentic New York-style pizza with hand-tossed dough, house-made sauces, and stone-baked pies until 3 AM. Born in Lexington and independently grown across the Tri-state, it maintains strong local roots despite multiple locations, but the Wiseguy Lounge upstairs truly earns its Wellfd listing as part of the acclaimed B-Line, featuring award-winning cocktails and one of America's top bourbon collections recognized by The Bourbon Review.
A family story that starts in Naples, Italy. Founder Dan 'Pops' Ciminillo grew up in his father Lewis's produce business in Lima, Ohio, learning quality ingredients from the ground up. After 25 years running a pizza shop named after his daughter, he moved to Cincinnati in 2004 and opened Goodfellows — named after his three sons. The menu is Italian-inspired with house dough made fresh daily, specialty pizzas named after family members, calzones, sandwiches, and homemade desserts. The vibe leans neighborhood bar with arcade games, foosball, and plenty of TVs for game days. Full bar and late-night hours make it a hangout as much as a restaurant.
A family-owned neighborhood institution in Norwood since 2008, built around gourmet burgers and a serious craft beer selection. The menu centers on thick, cooked-to-order patties with creative builds — the Gordo Burger, Hangover Burger, and Hawaiian Burger have all developed loyal followings. House-made appetizers like the stuffed jalapeños and baked mushrooms round out a menu that punches well above its casual setting. A large back room and patio provide room to spread out. Parking lot on site.
Housed in a beautifully restored 1800s governor's mansion in Covington's Roebling Point, this wine bar and Italian kitchen specializes in authentic Mediterranean cuisine using traditional recipes and ingredients. The menu features handmade pasta, including hand-stuffed shells with signature ricotta filling, alongside an extensive wine list and bourbon selection with half-priced bottles on Thursdays. With a cozy, romantic atmosphere featuring a fireplace and outdoor patio, it's a historic gem for both intimate dinners and special occasions.
Operating since 2014 inside an old Victorian home in the Highlands, this beloved breakfast and brunch spot features craft coffee from top artisan roasters (Onyx, Methodical, Ruby), fresh juices, and a seasonally driven scratch menu highlighting local farms. Breakfast beer and cocktails available. The cozy café doubles as a 'Bed & Beverage' with overnight accommodations. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Counter service, first-come-first-served seating. Weekend waits can reach 60 minutes—arrive early.
Northern Kentucky's premier casual upscale tavern established in 2007, known for signature Salmon Salad, Chicken Piccata, fresh wings, and "the Best Burger around" featuring creative options like their standout peanut butter raspberry chipotle jelly burger. Features live music Wednesday-Sunday, outdoor patio dining, fireside seating, extensive bourbon selection, half-price wine Mondays, and private event space, all built on Chef Jack Rolf's commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Neighborhood restaurant and bar in Fort Thomas serving seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine paired with a thoughtful wine program, craft cocktails, and curated beers since 2018. Led by Executive Chef Challis Hodge and wine director Lauren Hodge of Taste Food & Wine Group, featuring a wraparound bar designed for connection, regular live music, wine tastings and dinners, plus private events and catering.
Provisions with Intention. Husband-and-wife team Casey and Patrick Van Voorhis met at the Culinary Institute of America, then honed their craft at Michelin-starred San Francisco restaurants including Quince and Acquerello. They traded 17-hour fine dining days to build something sustainable—a trattoria-style café where they could start a family while making exceptional food. Fresh pasta is the foundation: 30 egg yolks per pound of dough, eggs delivered weekly from Casey's mom's farm. Seasonal menus change constantly, showcasing housemade sauces, focaccia, and dishes that respect ingredients without pretension. Named to Yelp's Top 100 Midwest Restaurants. Cooking classes available.
Fernando and Yaniel Martinez's upscale Mexican concept — the same cousins behind La Bodeguita de Mima. Originally opened as Guaca Mole Cocina Mexicana in Lyndon in 2013, it relocated to NuLu in February 2022 with a reimagined menu and jaw-dropping multi-room design. Themed rooms include an Alebrijes room, hammock seating, and rooftop patio. Regional Mexican influences from Oaxaca, Puebla, Riviera Maya, and Yucatan. Live mariachi, tableside dessert flambé, 50 tequilas and 25 mezcals. Churro cart. The whole place is an Instagram production.
Opened July 2025 by Trevor Snowden (Delwood, Parkside) in the former Lucy Blue/Bub's/Pizza Bank space. NYC slice shop vibes with a neighborhood bar feel. New York–style pizza by the slice or whole pies (12" and 18"). Dave Portnoy gave it a 7.9 and called the chocolate chip cookie "spectacular" (9.4). Soft-serve ice cream from the walk-up window. Full bar with craft cocktails. Multiple TVs for Bengals and Reds games. Right next door to Delwood.
A deliberately small neighborhood bar and kitchen in Northside focused on quality over volume. The menu is tight and rotates around creative specials — the double cheeseburger and sesame noodles have become signatures, and the salmon sandwich draws consistent praise. A back patio, live music nights, and Tuesday drink specials give it a strong community pull. The kind of place regulars guard quietly and recommend with confidence. Kitchen closes at 10pm nightly.
A family-owned Mexican deli and grocery on Lee Street in Covington, quietly earning its reputation one taco at a time. The menu stays focused — tacos, burritos, and quesadillas built on corn tortillas with chicken or beef barbacoa, topped with fried onion, cheese, cabbage, cilantro, and homemade red or green salsa. Birria tacos appear on Tuesdays, tamales on weekends. The attached grocery carries a strong selection of imported Latin products. No indoor seating — picnic tables out front. Part of the story behind Olla Taqueria, with the "Guti Fries" on Olla's menu a nod to the family name.
Founded in 2013 by Matt Harris and Mike Legg after 15 years working together in manufacturing. Expanded in 2019 with a bigger tap room completed in summer 2020. Barn wood on walls donated by the Hertlein Family farm (Vandalia staple since early 1900s), oak planks from the Trick Family. Also home to Blackbird Meadery for meads and ciders. Known for their sours, smoked wings with Chocolate Habanero sauce, and craft pizzas like the Brewhouse Rancher. Family-friendly with giant Jenga and large outdoor patio added in 2021.
A cozy basement gastropub in Germantown drawing crowds nightly for elevated pub fare and smoked meats. The legendary truffle fries—fried in duck fat, topped with sage mayo—are worth the drive alone. Roasted duck tacos, elk and venison burgers, brisket sandwiches, and crispy mushroom medleys showcase creative cooking with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Expect a wait—arrive before 5:00pm or face the line. No reservations; first come, first served only.
Florida family bringing cherished heirloom Southern recipes to Aurora's cozy remodeled dining room with rustic, grandmother's-house charm. Wood smoker crafts authentic barbecue including smoked meatloaf, pulled pork, half chicken with crispy skin, and catfish, complemented by fried green tomatoes with goat cheese, mac and cheese, collard greens, and bourbon bread pudding. Generous portions, warm hospitality, and attentive service where tradition meets community in every home-cooked meal.
Family-owned gastropub boasting Southern Indiana's largest craft beer selection with 100+ taps, chef-driven menu of elevated pub fare, and dog-friendly outdoor patio. Certified Cicerone on staff to guide beer pairings and craft custom flights. Opened 2018.
"Distinctively Southern, Soulfully Unique" restaurant and sports bar led by Executive Chef Daren Harris, known for signature Alabama White Sauce, étouffée catfish, dry rubbed BBQ shrimp over jalapeño cheddar grits, burgers, overstuffed potatoes, and Nashville wings. Popular local gathering spot featuring live music on Thursday and Saturday nights with artists from Nashville and The Voice, where "everybody knows your name" in a welcoming Cheers-style atmosphere. Live music every Saturday 6:30-9:30.
Vinyl runs this Mt. Adams room. Records line the walls, bartenders work the turntables between pours, and crates sit out for digging. The kitchen reaches further than the setting suggests: Roman-style pinsa, hot-pressed sandwiches on Breadsmith bread, smoked and baked wings, dressed-up hot dogs, bruschetta flights, and a Skyline dip that tells you exactly where you are. Downstairs, sister club Lofi runs DJs and drag shows. Live music, karaoke, trivia, and comedy rotate through the week, so the room changes character depending on the night you pick. 21+.
Solar-powered brewpub opened in 2019 by Matt Utter, Brian, and Josh—former Christian Moerlein team members—in a repurposed 1951 municipal building. Head brewer Utter studied in Munich, crafting traditional European styles with modern twists. Chef Lee Moeller's farm-to-table kitchen elevates pub fare with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Geothermal HVAC, native garden, and carbon-neutral beer series reflect deep sustainability commitments. Dog-friendly patio and spacious beer garden.
HighGrain's larger second location opened May 2024 in the former Brentwood Bowl, a 50,000-square-foot space now home to expanded brewing operations. The same commitment to sustainability, locally sourced ingredients, and traditional European styles with modern twists carries over from Silverton. Shares the building with La Terza Artisan Coffee and Revel OTR Urban Winery. Private event spaces and a full scratch kitchen make it ideal for gatherings of any size.
A two-time Best of NKY award winner (2024 & 2025 Best Soup/Salad and Best Sub/Sandwich Shop), Highland Square Deli serves hand-crafted, made-to-order favorites from breakfast through dinner in Fort Thomas. With fresh, locally-sourced ingredients going into everything from Italian-style breads baked daily to signature items like savory quiche, Buffalo chicken wraps, and their celebrated Berry Summer Salad, this cozy deli-style cafe offers healthy options with gluten-free bread available, all served in a welcoming sunroom setting with pergola-covered outdoor seating that feels like your own patio.
Housed in a restored former church, this Highlands destination pairs a globally curated beer list with a focused kitchen rooted in European influences. The menu highlights seasonal dishes, house-made sausages, and thoughtful pub fare designed to complement an extensive draft and bottle selection. The architecture alone sets it apart, while the patio and community-oriented atmosphere keep it approachable. A long-running fixture in Louisville's beer culture, it bridges craft beverage enthusiasm with serious kitchen execution.
Owned by Chris Rose, this Riverside Drive sports bar features basketball court-themed tables and bar crafted from reclaimed NBA court floors. The scratch kitchen smokes meats using cherry wood—the brisket draws comparisons to top Texas joints. Signature dishes include smoked stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon, Asian pork belly, and the Riverside Burger. German-style brisket served with pickles and bread, plus Grandma Feist's cheesecake round out a menu that elevates bar food. Sports memorabilia throughout, with an upstairs lounge and dog-friendly patio with live music.
Family-friendly sports bar and grill serving fresh-made burgers (including the Joey B burger with Cajun-seasoned beef, Cajun shrimp, pepper jack cheese, and homemade remoulade), wings available bone-in, boneless, or cauliflower with 16 different sauces (including honey wings, spicy garlic, and hot garlic), onion rings, cheese curds, hoagies, wraps, salads, pizza, nachos, and daily lunch and dinner specials; lower level features private party space with full bar, three pool tables, and arcade games; non-smoking on both levels with outdoor seating available.
Seven generations of the Huber family have farmed this 700-acre estate since 1843, when Simon Huber brought German winemaking traditions from Baden-Baden. Award-winning wines and spirits made from estate-grown fruits, homemade ice cream, farm bakery and sweets, u-pick orchards, and Family Farm Park activities spanning strawberry fields to tasting loft. 180+ years of sustainable farming heritage where farm-first values meet multi-generational experiences for all ages.
Locally owned pizzeria founded in 2021 by Chris Fox and Nick Lawrence with a mission to give back to the Sellersburg community. Features hand-tossed pizzas including signature options like bourbon chicken and Hot Brown, plus wings, salads, and specialty items like their new mac and cheese pizza. Sports bar atmosphere with multiple TVs, outdoor patio, and private party room.
Set in Cincinnati's historic Westwood Town Hall District, this modern steak-and-seafood spot was created by local owners who bought and restored the building in 2019 as part of Westwood's revitalization. The experience leans 'special occasion' without feeling stuffy, pairing premium steaks, inventive seafood, and a deep wine program with polished, welcoming service. Happy hour runs early in the evening, and Sunday service includes brunch plus dinner. Live piano nights add to the atmosphere, making it an easy pick for date night or celebrations.
Restaurant and catering company located inside Hillcrest Golf & Country Club co-owned by Adam Israel (Culinary Institute of America graduate) and Bill Gardner. Classic American breakfast, lunch, and dinner with contemporary twists focusing on fresh, local ingredients. Menu features house-made goetta, buttermilk biscuits with sausage gravy, burgers, eggs, steaks, Italian dishes, and Sunday brunch. Full bar with patio dining overlooking golf course.
A Louisville institution since 1933, when Jack Fry—a bookie and bootlegger—first opened the doors. Today, Executive Chef Shawn K. Ward leads a kitchen known for Southern cuisine with French influence. The walls display historic black-and-white photos of racehorses and prizefighters, and live jazz fills the intimate dining room Tuesday through Saturday. Signature dishes include shrimp and grits, lamb chops, and their renowned seasonal fruit cobbler with house-made ice cream.
Cincinnati's flagship luxury steakhouse from Jeff Ruby Culinary Entertainment, relocated in 2021 to an Art Deco-inspired showpiece adjacent to Fountain Square. The largest and most opulent Jeff Ruby's yet features gilded-age grandeur with artistic tributes to Cincinnati legends throughout. Nationally-acclaimed hand-curated USDA Prime dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, sushi, and raw bar anchor the menu alongside classic favorites like the legendary Steak Diane prepared tableside. Mother-of-pearl and gold-plated piano provides nightly live entertainment on the elevated stage. High-energy upscale dining where impeccable service meets show-stopping ambiance—guests dress up to see and be seen while celebrating life's special moments. Private dining available including exclusive Ruby Wine Vault experiences.
A folksy-chic tavern in a restored 1892 firehouse that once housed Dayton Fire Department Ladder 11. The original fire pole still extends through the ceiling to the second floor. Founder Jimmie Brandell (Chaminade Julienne graduate) started in the restaurant business at 16 under mentor Jack Rouda of Upper Krust fame, working his way up over 25 years before opening Jimmie's Cornerstone Bar & Grille across the street in 2004. He opened Ladder 11 on 11/11/11—his lucky number. After 50 years in the industry, Jimmie and wife Sue retired in 2023; son Nick now owns and operates. Several menu items preserve Upper Krust's original recipes, including Jack's Special sandwich (oven roasted beef, tomato, coleslaw, Russian dressing). Private event space in the upstairs Party Loft (80 seats) and Jimmie's Greenhouse (1877 house behind restaurant, 30-50 guests).
Classic Italian comfort food—chicken parmigiana, lasagna, fresh-made pasta, pepperoni rolls, and pizza—from owner Mo Jusufi, a Kosovo refugee who came to Dayton in 2002 speaking no English. He purchased the original Kettering location in 2014 from his friend, the late Jimmy Troni (36+ years in the restaurant business). The Oregon District location opened in 2024 in the former Franco's space, fulfilling a promise Jusufi made to Troni: "I will do better than you. I will open a second one." Family-run with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and customer service.
Country-style family restaurant serving farm-fresh comfort food including famous fried biscuits with apple butter, country fried chicken, Huber honey ham, chicken and dumplings, fresh vegetables, and homemade pies and cobblers. Founded 1983 by Joe and Bonnie Huber on the family's 200-acre farm (established 1926), recreating the generous farmhouse meals Grandma Mary served to farm hands in the 1920s. Seasonal operation (closed winter, reopens March) now run by the fifth generation of Hubers since Simon arrived from Germany in 1843.
Opened in April 2018, this Milford spot brings authentic Neapolitan-style pizza to Cincinnati's east side with a wood-burning oven as the centerpiece of the dining room. The menu is focused and deliberate — hand-tossed dough, fresh sauce, and a short list of pies that prioritize quality over quantity. The Margherita and Roma are standouts. Italian beers, local craft drafts, and wine round out the experience. The house-made Gen 4 sauce is sold by the jar. Dessert calzones filled with chocolate, bananas, and strawberries have become a signature. Intimate seating with a front-row view of the oven.
Gin bar and tapas lounge from owners Vic and Lesley Hugo (also own Crafts and Vines). Over 230 gins and counting in near-encyclopedic collection. Located in historic John R. Green Company building, Mainstrasse Village. Rotating monthly tapas menu with global flavors. Cocktail menu features The Syllabus (global flavor inspirations), Extra Credit (staff-crafted twists), and The Common Denominator (gin's evolution from pre-prohibition to modern). Live jazz Friday-Saturday nights. Sunday brunch 10am-2pm with live jazz third Sunday monthly. Semi-private event space for up to 50 guests. Custom cocktails off-menu encouraged.
Korean and sushi restaurant by Inho Cha near Findlay Market serving authentic Korean dishes alongside half-price sushi all day. Opened 2021 featuring traditional Korean fare like dolsot bibimbap served in hot stone bowl, tteokbokki, sundubu-jjigae, and tempura udon paired with specialty sushi rolls. Playful modern dishes include kimchi crab rangoons and Seoul wings. House-crafted cocktails with seasonal ingredients. Fresh pasta made daily visible through window on Elm Street. Happy hour 2-5pm Tuesday through Friday.
Breakfast-focused spot in Verona celebrating morning meals with homestyle favorites, biscuits and gravy, and signature warm donut bites served in a welcoming community atmosphere. The family-friendly restaurant specializes in traditional breakfast classics prepared with heart from Wednesday through Sunday.
Sports bar and grill serving burgers, sandwiches, beer-battered fish, salmon BLT, pizzas, quesadillas, and wings; full bar with heavy emphasis on IPAs and extensive whiskey selection; games include shuffleboard, pool, Golden Tee, and board games; outdoor patio seating available.
Izakaya and sushi bar from James Beard-nominated Chef Hideki Harada, relocated to Clifton's Gaslight District in 2025 after six years in College Hill. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Menu spans ramen, bao buns, kushiyaki skewers, and a new sushi bar with fresh seafood from Sen by Kiki. Try the wagyu skewer, kimchi ramen, or College Hill roll—a nod to the original location. Lunch bowls available.
A family-run Korean restaurant known for its authentic flavors and consistently executed classics. The menu highlights favorites like bibimbap, bulgogi, kimchi-based soups, and handmade dumplings, all served in a cozy, unpretentious setting. Dishes lean traditional rather than modernized, with an emphasis on balance, heat, and depth. The atmosphere feels personal and familiar, the kind of place built on repeat visits, steady cooking, and a loyal local following.
Austin and Henry Burns built the first location with their own two hands and opened on Derby Day with a refrigerator of fish, two fryers, and a cooler of beer. This locally-owned Jeffersonville riverfront destination still delivers the same abundant variety, friendly service, and reasonable prices that made Kingfish synonymous with great seafood across Kentucky and Southern Indiana for 70+ years—plus live entertainment, outdoor dining, and views that keep folks coming back.
A downtown bar with a cult following for its chicken wings and an easygoing, no-frills atmosphere that regularly comes up in “best in town” conversations. The space centers around a long bar with shuffleboard, complimentary popcorn, and a small patio, giving it a distinctly urban feel more reminiscent of Manhattan than a typical Midwestern tavern. It’s a 21-and-over spot built for game days, casual afternoons, and nights where the wings and the crowd are the main attraction.
A NKY staple for about 75 years, this authentic Cajun/Creole restaurant brings Louisiana cuisine and Southern hospitality to Northern Kentucky with specialties like gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, Cajun shrimp boil, blackened Chilean sea bass, fried alligator bites, frog legs, and crab cakes. Charming New Orleans-themed atmosphere with crooked floors and outdoor metal furniture creating a unique bayou dining experience high above the Licking River, featuring generous portions and signature cocktails like the Voodoo and Hurricane.
Independent family-owned American restaurant with a quirky sense of humor and strong community commitment, famous for schWINGzzz™ featuring 14 wet sauces, 4 dry rubs, and 6 heat levels from mild to excruciating Solar Flare. 4 time winner of NKY Best Wings. Large casual menu with indoor dining rooms, semi-private areas, adults-only bar featuring 16 draft beers, plus outdoor main patio and family patio for al fresco dining, with entire menu available for dine-in or curbside carryout.
German-American restaurant and bier haus operated by the Kreimer family since 1982. Bavarian-style architecture with stonework, timber beams, and armor décor creates a castle-like atmosphere. Signature dishes include hand-cut steaks from local farms, schnitzel with house-made schwine sauce, krautballs, and potato pancakes. The outdoor River Bar on the Great Miami River features live music and festival-style seating. Full banquet facilities available. A west-side destination combining old-world German heritage with American comfort fare.
Authentic Turkish and Kurdish cuisine in the heart of Anderson Towne Center. Chef-owner Comert Kurdistan brings the flavors of his homeland to Cincinnati through scratch-made classics—silky hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, flaky borek pastries, and perfectly seasoned kebabs. The lamb shank, slow-cooked until falling off the bone, has earned legendary status. Cincinnati Magazine dubbed Kurdistan "an eggplant whisperer" for his memorable vegetable preparations. The enchanting patio, draped with grapevines and herbs, transports diners to the Mediterranean. Warm hospitality makes everyone feel like family.
Cousins Fernando and Yaniel Martinez built this NuLu Cuban restaurant as a love letter to their family matriarch, "Mima" — a former Miss Cuba and Tropicana performer who rafted to the U.S. from Havana in 1994. The 1950s-inspired dining room transports guests to pre-revolution Cuba with vintage fixtures, red vinyl seating, and live music nightly. Signature dishes like ropa vieja, lechón asado, and the tableside-opened entrée in a sealed can make for one of Louisville's most immersive dining experiences. Full rum bar, cigar-friendly patio, and Havana Nights chauffeured dining packages.
Family-owned authentic Mexican restaurant serving shareable dishes, street tacos, and family recipes since 2018. Features seasonal menus with gourmet presentation, full bar with house-made cocktail mixers using classic Mexican flavors, margaritas, tequila, and bourbon. Colorful decor with murals, outdoor patio, and a hip, trendy atmosphere.
La Catrina brings creative street tacos to Jeffersonville with inventive combinations like the Fuego (carne asada with habanero salsa and serrano pickled onion), quesabirria loaded with mole-glazed brisket, and the Kentuckiana with crispy chicken and Nashville hot aioli. Beyond tacos, the menu runs deep with burritos, quesadillas, shareable nachos and cholo fries, plus a tequila bar that pairs perfectly with anything from their fire-roasted elote to cerveza-battered fish tacos.
Louisville's best-kept secret in the Highlands—rustic Southern French and Spanish fusion in an intimate, romantic setting. Chef Alexander Dulaney showcases classic French technique with exuberant innovation. Award-winning cocktails crafted by owner/bartender Isaac (Bourbon Classic 2017 winner). Barrel-aged Vieux Carré, escargot Rockefeller, pan-roasted airline chicken, and crab-encrusted cod. All bread baked in-house. The kind of neighborhood gem that regulars visit for every special occasion.
A simple Monmouth Street storefront that has been a benchmark for authentic Mexican in NKY for years — reportedly a go-to for Cincinnati's top chefs when they want the real thing. Homemade tortillas wrap an extensive meat roster: al pastor, carnitas, barbacoa, birria (goat), lengua, tripe, and more. Specialty tacos include huitlacoche and pumpkin flower for those willing to venture off the familiar path. Homemade margaritas, horchata, and caldos round out the menu. An attached tienda and carniceria carry fresh produce, cut meats, tortillas, and Mexican grocery staples.
Family-owned fusion spot where Mexican and Venezuelan street food collide, founded by husband-and-wife team Edgar de la Cruz and Karina Presti who started by driving around passing out Microsoft Word menus in 2018. Fresh-made arepas and Venezuelan cheese meet generous tortas piled high with combinations like chicken Milanese, steak, carnitas, and bacon. Birria tacos, deep-fried quesadillas, and empanadas round out the à la carte menu built with love by people who aren't chefs—just passionate cooks. Named Yelp People's Favorite and Best Carryout Restaurant in Kentucky, this casual, pet-friendly spot delivers authentic flavors that turn first-timers into regulars.
Family-owned Venezuelan and Mexican street food spot featuring made-from-scratch tortas, arepas, empanadas, and tacos with gluten-free and keto options. Opened in 2018 by husband-wife team Edgar de la Cruz and Karina Presti, blending flavors from their native Mexico and Venezuela. Named Yelp People's Favorite 2020 and nominated Best of Northern Kentucky 2025.
Le Bar à Boeuf is a French neo-bistro tucked into the first floor of the Edgecliff Private Residences on Victory Parkway in Cincinnati's East Walnut Hills, serving classic bistro fare rooted in the culinary legacy of the late Jean-Robert de Cavel. The menu reads like a love letter to French cooking: escargot, beef tartare, duck leg confit, steak frites, French onion soup, and a rotating specials list built around local and seasonal ingredients. De Cavel arrived in Cincinnati in 1993, earned four James Beard semifinalist nominations, and spent three decades making this city a destination for serious French cuisine. His wife Annette and the JR Cincy family continue to honor that legacy with the same exactness and warmth he brought to everything he touched. The room is intimate, the service is exceptional, and the view overlooking the Ohio River is one of the better-kept secrets in Cincinnati dining.
Louisville's most theatrical steakhouse experience, featuring everything from certified Angus beef to authentic Japanese A5 Wagyu from Miyazaki Prefecture. Named a Top 20 Steakhouse in America by USA Today. The dimly lit, glamorous space includes the famous Louis Vuitton booth crafted from 17 pieces of vintage luggage. Over 100 bourbons complement the menu. Brunch includes their signature Drag Brunch on weekends with seatings at 10:45am and 1:30pm.
A warm and welcoming dining spot in Dayton's historic Oregon District with an eclectic menu that blends Southern comfort and globally-inspired dishes. Seasonal brunch offerings sit alongside dinner favorites like shrimp & grits, Bahn Mi sliders, and grilled Wagyu smash burgers, all crafted to pair beautifully with their tiki-inspired cocktail program. Three outdoor patios and lush interior botanical touches create a relaxed atmosphere encouraging lingering meals. Thoughtful wine, craft beer, and tropical cocktails complement the chef's creative plates.
Upscale steakhouse established in 2016 as tribute to owner Hans Philippo's hometown of Lisse, Holland, blending traditional American steakhouse cuisine with authentic Dutch flavors and ingredients. Three-floor venue seating over 300 guests features two private rooms on the second floor, outdoor terrace, and third-floor cigar lounge, offering unique off-menu specials that celebrate Dutch culinary traditions.
Opened December 2017 by brothers-in-law Dan Lynch and Joe Brenner, who built the brewery from the ground up on the banks of the Little Miami River in historic Old Milford. Brewmaster Jim Strelau brings 25+ years experience and multiple GABF awards. Small-batch craft brewery focused on taproom experience over distribution—16 rotating taps ranging from hoppy IPAs to crisp lagers. Brick-oven artisan pizzas complement the beer; try the Old Milford or Figgy Piggy. Stunning riverside location with rooftop bar, outdoor patio with Adirondack chairs along the water, and spacious industrial-chic taproom. Convenient to the Little Miami Bike Trail. Separate event center accommodates 25–300 guests.
Opened in 2018 inside a renovated historic Cincinnati Post Office built in the 1920s. Award-winning burgers, signature dry-rubbed wings, and build-your-own pizzas anchor the menu. The East End Burger and Cincy Fries (topped with goetta, cheese, and over-easy egg) draw loyal followings. Two floors of dining with bars on each level, pool tables, and giant TVs throughout. Year-round dog-friendly patio with outdoor TVs. Self-proclaimed "Home of the Pats Nation Cincinnati" for New England sports fans.
Boutique Italian steakhouse in Washington Park named by USA Today as one of the 20 best steakhouses in America worth a road trip. Redefining the steakhouse experience without white tablecloths—bold, sophisticated atmosphere with sultry ambiance. In-house butchered and charred steaks alongside handcrafted pasta and extensive wine list. Vibrant yet intimate space for celebrations, romantic dinners, and business meals.
A taste of New Orleans in NuLu's heart, with the best shrimp and grits in town alongside creative Cajun-Creole dishes, Mediterranean touches, and an indulgent bananas Foster. Two floors of indoor dining, a gorgeous shaded patio, covered balcony, and Stave—a speakeasy in the basement with live music Thursday through Sunday. Perfect for everything from brunch to late-night cocktails. Five unique private event spaces available.
Founded March 2018 by Jeff Keate, Shane Spears, pitmaster Tom Martin, and Aaron Sharpe (who departed September 2025). Named for Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, the Roman statesman for whom Cincinnati was named. All meats sourced from neighborhood butcher Avril-Bleh and smoked low and slow over oak and cherry wood. Signature "Chitas" (chicken pita sandwiches) and handcrafted pies join pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and smoked wings. Modern-industrial space features free live music weekends. Counter service means fast turnaround even for large groups. Large catering orders require 24-hour notice; orders over $1,000 require 48-hour notice.
Ludlow Bromley Yacht Club brings beach vibes to the Ohio River from its floating barges in Ludlow, serving pub classics like grouper sandwiches and cold drinks alongside live music and man-made beach seating. Owners Steve and Andrea Gott rebuilt this iconic NKY landmark after a barge destroyed it in 2019, reopening in 2025 with the same cash-only, laid-back river atmosphere that made it a community gathering spot for nearly three decades. With its marina docking and waterfront location, LBYC is where Northern Kentucky meets summer vacation—no matter the season.
Family-owned sports bar in Silverton's heart, dedicated to a casual atmosphere with diverse menu and drink selection. Burgers, wings, famous box tots, flatbread pizzas, and daily specials satisfy every craving. Twelve tap handles focus on local craft brews alongside domestics, imports, and a full bar. Large patio, private party room, live music, and free trivia Thursdays make it a neighborhood gathering spot for food, fun, and entertainment.
MadTree's boldest venture yet opened February 2025 inside a renovated 15,000-square-foot airplane hangar at Summit Park. Co-founded in 2013 by Brady Duncan, Jeff Hunt, and Kenny McNutt, MadTree built its reputation on award-winning craft beers and a deep commitment to sustainability—they're Ohio's only B Corp-certified brewery. Parks & Rec was designed for families and outdoor lovers, featuring indoor and outdoor kids' play areas, all-day brunch, wood-fired pizzas, and a patio that seamlessly blends into the park's green space. The "Branch Out" program makes this one of the region's most inclusive restaurants for guests with developmental disabilities, complete with a calming room developed alongside Cincinnati Children's Hospital.
Farm-to-table diner on historic Main Street using all local products with no frozen foods, owned by welcoming operators who source ingredients locally. Breakfast, burgers, barbecue including Tina's Famous BBQ pulled pork sandwich, chili cheese fries, mushroom omelette, biscuits and gravy, and Swiss burgers. Also source for all-natural free-range, grass-fed, pasture-raised beef by the pound. Cozy, quaint atmosphere with outdoor tables and interior reflecting owner's interests. Dine-in, carry-out, and local delivery. Ranked #1 restaurant in Rising Sun.
Under new ownership since August 2024, this female-owned sushi and sake bar features Executive Chef Roberto Castaneda's pan-Asian kitchen alongside Sushi Chef Isaiah Barrett's creative specialty rolls. The menu spans traditional Japanese offerings like miso soup and fresh sushi to crowd-pleasers like pork dumplings and chicken katsu, paired with an extensive sake selection of 20+ varieties. The cozy cocktail bar atmosphere and friendly service have made this Madison Avenue spot a go-to for both quick lunches and date nights.
Greater Cincinnati's oldest live music venue, housed in an 1875 building in Newport's East Row Historic District that's served as a café since 1944 and legendary home of the mid-century "boogie woogie" movement with greats like H-Bomb Ferguson and Big Joe Duskin. Now operated by Brian Conner, featuring live blues music every night, home of the Mansion Hill Blues Festival, and serving southern-inspired tavern fare including burgers, Nashville Hot sandwich, fried green tomatoes, fried okra, and award-winning fried chicken. Open daily with lunch, weekend brunch, craft cocktails, and an authentic neighborhood blues atmosphere where "you're only a stranger once."
English-style public house fusing British sophistication with bold Indian flavors in a moody Arts and Crafts-inspired setting. Chef Megan Yung (Le Cordon Bleu London-trained) crafts London-style curries like butter chicken and Malabar shrimp with maximized richness, plus charred meats, Scotch eggs, and ale-steamed mussels. Pot pies, fish and chips, and the Marigold burger (Welsh rarebit on house-made English muffin) balance familiar comfort with unexpected spice. Bespoke Cincinnati Distilling gin stars in the signature Pimm's Royal Cup. Deep emerald and crimson tones, antique china place settings, and botanical motifs create sultry, intimate ambiance perfect for adventurous date nights.
Scratch kitchen restaurant anchoring historic downtown Harrison in beautifully restored mid-1800s Odd Fellows Building. Three siblings purchased and renovated the landmark structure in 1996, earning the 2000 Preservation Award from Cincinnati Preservation Association for excellence in rehabilitation. Familiar homemade dishes using fresh ingredients create nostalgic flavors in relaxed, vintage atmosphere. Menu features Maryland crab cakes, hand-cut Certified Angus Beef burgers, fresh seafood, specialty sandwiches, and impressive salad variety. Weekend prime rib special available while supplies last. Sunday brunch showcases signature potato soup, voted guests' number one choice. Pub-style bar serves upscale liquors and craft brews. Live music and special tasting events pair wine with seasonal menus. Multiple dining rooms accommodate private parties and corporate gatherings with personalized custom menus. Owners Katie and Paul maintain hands-on presence ensuring warm, family-like hospitality.
An upscale American tavern and steakhouse built around the idea of craic — an Irish sense of energy, community, and togetherness that shapes the experience from the moment you walk in. The chef-driven menu elevates classic tavern favorites with thoughtful twists, balancing comfort and polish across steaks, entrées, and shareable plates. The atmosphere feels lively and welcoming, making it a natural fit for group gatherings, celebrations, and nights that linger longer than planned.
Chef Bruce Ucán, a Mayan Indian from Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, was a pioneer in NuLu when he opened his first restaurant here in 1997. Since 2007, he and co-owner Anne Shadle have served authentic Mayan cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients from Kentucky farms. Their commitment to farm-to-table extends to sustainably produced meats and seasonal produce. Signature dishes include cochinita pibil, mole, and their legendary lima beans. An intimate space with photos of Chef Bruce's village lining the walls.
Oaxacan-inspired taqueria founded by Josh Wamsley after 10 months living and learning to cook in Mexico. Street-style tacos with fresh corn tortillas made in-house—pork with avocado salsa, steak with pickled onion and goat cheese, fish, veggie. Homemade salsa bar with pico, salsa verde, salsa picante. Also enchiladas, quesadillas, pozole, elote. Gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Counter-service with indoor/outdoor seating. Started 2012, now a Cincinnati institution.
Cozy neighborhood restaurant in the heart of Newport offering a diverse scratch kitchen menu in a warm, welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff. Perfect for leisurely dinners with loved ones, quick lunch catch-ups with friends, or solo meals at the bar, where laughter flows freely and guests are invited to come as they are and leave with satisfied hearts, full stomachs, and smiles.
A 2025 James Beard Award finalist, Chef Noam Bilitzer invites guests to experience the bold, vibrant flavors of Levantine cuisine in this intimate NuLu gem. 'Meeshmeesh' means apricot in both Arabic and Hebrew—a playful term reflecting the restaurant's approach. Dishes draw from Palestinian, Lebanese, Syrian, Israeli, and North African traditions with locally sourced ingredients. The salatim platter, lamb merguez, and brown butter knafeh are standouts. Reservations release on a 60-day rolling calendar via Tock.
Opened in 2024 in the former Urban Grill space, this casually refined eatery pays tribute to Newtown's history as Mercersburg (settled 1792 by Captain Aaron Mercer). Co-owner Nick Fucito brings his hospitality expertise to a menu of classic American fare with modern twists—the fried spicy chicken sandwich with cherry peppers packs serious heat, while the horseradish cheddar mashed potatoes steal the show. Weekend brunch draws families, and the seamless indoor-outdoor flow makes it perfect year-round. Surrounded by Clear Creek Park and the charming village, it's become the heart of Newtown's dining scene.
Contemporary American restaurant nestled in quaint historic Glendale Square creating charming backdrop for any occasion. Eclectic chef-driven menu features fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, specialty sandwiches, and impressive salad variety. Everything from salad dressings to desserts made in-house using only freshest ingredients. Famous weekend prime rib available Friday through Sunday while supplies last. Wine list personally curated to complement menu features selections from around the world. Live music enhances atmosphere, particularly on weekends. Warm professional service blends seamlessly with intimate multi-level dining space featuring cozy fireplace. Private dining accommodates groups of 10 to 150 guests for celebrations, corporate events, and special occasions. Perfect blend of neighborhood charm and refined dining makes Meritage Glendale's beloved destination for lunch and dinner.
Downtown dining room inside 21c Museum Hotel pairing seasonal New American cuisine with contemporary art space atmosphere. Executive Chef Corey Cova—Navy veteran, CIA graduate, veteran of Momofuku Ssam Bar, Morimoto, and Chef Michael Symon's Lolita—crafts thoughtful plates celebrating local farmers and regional ingredients with globally inspired touches. Elevated bar program features craft cocktails with local distilleries and wines from family-owned vineyards. Polished yet approachable vibe equal parts date-night destination and social gathering spot welcoming all walks of life.
Family operated and started as a BBQ sauce and rub company in 2009 before growing into a full-scale smokehouse. Everything is all-natural, made by hand, and fresh — no artificial flavoring, no shortcuts. The wings get called out specifically and often, with house-made sauces including a Grippo's BBQ flavor that leans pure Cincinnati. Smoked meats run the full range — brisket, pulled pork, ribs, turkey, hot links — and the scratch sides hold their own. Featured in The Voice of Black Cincinnati as a go-to destination for the community. End with Hershey's hand-dipped ice cream, which sounds like an afterthought and isn't. Catering available for events of all sizes.
Food truck turned local institution. Owner Miguel Espinosa debuted at the 2016 Street Fair and set up permanently in Kings Yard in 2017. Authentic Mexican street tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and bowls made fresh with recipes from his hometown of Mexico City. Birria tacos and carne asada are crowd favorites. Recently added an indoor dining room (March 2025) in the former Winds Cafe kitchen space—giving patrons an off-street option while the truck keeps slinging. Plans for a second Greene County location underway. A Yellow Springs staple through multiple transitions.
A counter-service smash burger spot in the heart of Over-the-Rhine, delivering on a focused menu of juicy burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, and boozy milkshakes without the wait or pretense of the neighborhood's larger dining rooms. Orders come out fast and are made to order with fresh ingredients. Local CinSoy tofu is available for those skipping meat. The patio is dog-friendly. No reservations, no waitlist — walk in, order at the counter, and eat well.
Authentic Irish pub in a beautifully restored 1888 building at the foot of the Roebling Suspension Bridge, serving traditional Irish favorites like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and Irish stew alongside American pub classics including buffalo wings and burgers. Features draft beers including Guinness and Smithwick's plus local craft brews, extensive Irish whiskey selection and creative cocktails, live music, sports on big screens, weekend brunch, late-night kitchen Friday and Saturday, patio with stunning Roebling Bridge and Cincinnati skyline views, plus two private event spaces in a vibrant pub culture where you come as a stranger and leave as a friend.
Kansas City-style dry rub BBQ born from Kentucky Derby winnings in 2012. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives and in 'Top 100 BBQ Restaurants in America.' Trained under 'Baron of BBQ' Paul Kirk. Famous smoked wings ('Best Wings Ever'), beef ribs that may be the best you'll ever eat, house-smoked sausage without casing. St. Matthews location has full bar with 150+ bourbons. Solar-powered, eco-sensitive packaging, 2% of sales goes to local charities (over $350K distributed).
Partners Brian Holton and Ian Luijk (a Dutch transplant and general contractor) opened Monnik in 2015 in the Schnitzelburg neighborhood, rooted in Holton's experience founding Beer Engine in Danville, KY. Brewer Buddy is now also an owner. The name means "monk" in Dutch, reflecting the focused craftsmanship behind their 20-tap beer program. But this is no brewery with an afterthought kitchen — Head Chef Jess Parker runs a full seasonal menu of creative comfort food built on locally sourced ingredients. Sauerbraten, war fries with peanut sauce, potted ham hock, curry beans, and daily specials rotate with the seasons. Event space upstairs.
The Gregory family's barbecue empire began here on November 1, 1951, when Ted Gregory took over McCabe's Inn in what was then a sleepy country village. His wife Matula developed the signature tangy-sweet sauce that put Cincinnati ribs on the map—she deserves the title "Ribs Queen" though Ted became known as "The Ribs King." Five U.S. presidents have dined here, along with Bob Hope, Johnny Bench, and Neil Armstrong. The original location is packed with sports memorabilia. Sauce ranked Top 5 in America by Bon Appétit.
Ted Gregory cast the lone "yes" vote against his family's objections to open this riverfront location in 1989—history proved him right. Stunning views of the Ohio River from floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor seating that feels like vacation. Upstairs sports lounge adds energy. Same legendary loin back ribs and signature sauce as the original, plus Greek-influenced touches like Momma Gregory's meatballs. The Saratoga chips topped with pulled pork were voted #1 appetizer in Cincinnati. Private dining for up to 250 guests.
A Montgomery dive bar since 1975 with wings that have no business being this good. Huge, smoked, and served with house-made sauces — regulars put them in the same top-three Cincinnati conversation as Knockback Nat's and Oak Tavern, and they're not wrong. Dark inside, basic on purpose, and completely unbothered by it. The homemade tater tots and Cajun fries get their own following alongside the wings. Pool table, steel-tip darts, multiple TVs, and outdoor patio.
A Clifton neighborhood restaurant offering a mix of creative comfort food and casual bar favorites in a relaxed, modern setting. The menu blends sandwiches, burgers, small plates, and rotating specials, supported by a full cocktail and beer program. The atmosphere strikes a balance between laid-back and polished, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. Its approachable pricing and neighborhood feel have helped it develop a loyal following.
A bright and modern brunch spot along the Frankfort Avenue corridor, serving elevated morning classics with global touches. The menu includes inventive takes on pancakes, breakfast tacos, sandwiches, and espresso drinks, presented with an eye toward detail and freshness. The space feels contemporary yet comfortable, attracting both neighborhood regulars and weekend destination diners. Its focus on daytime dining keeps the energy high and the experience streamlined, making it a dependable stop for thoughtful breakfast fare.
Cajun seafood restaurant delivering hands-on boil-in-bag dining experience with bold, spicy coastal flavors. Signature menu features "The Mr. Catch" with choice of snow crab or lobster tail plus two pounds of customizable seafood, all seasoned with options including garlic butter, lemon pepper, Cajun, or Old Bay. Build-your-own combos allow diners to mix crab legs, crawfish, whole shrimp, clams, and mussels with corn and potatoes. Menu also includes fried baskets, po'boy sandwiches, hush puppies, clam chowder, and popular Mr. Crab Special Wings. Full bar with cocktails and happy hour specials. Lively, casual atmosphere welcomes families and groups with capacity for private events up to 300 guests. Multiple TVs throughout make it perfect for sports fans.
Established in 2005 by Mike and Kathleen Dewey in the storm cellar of a 1924 farmhouse, Mt. Carmel is Cincinnati's oldest craft microbrewery and still family owned and operated. Twenty taps of house-brewed beer, a full kitchen, and a farmhouse setting with a patio overlooking a small pond — it's a destination in its own right. The wings are dry-rubbed and smoked with five sauce options including the Pterodactyl (sweet chili and soy) and the Denzel (serrano, jalapeño, and habanero). CityBeat has called them out specifically. Private event space available in the carriage house for up to 80 guests, with additional capacity in the taproom and farmhouse.
Established 1921, under current ownership since 2013. Rated #1 east side bar by CityBeat. Famous for smoked wings—arguably the best in the city. Spacious patio overlooking Mt. Lookout Square, partially covered and heated. A dozen TVs for all the games. Weekend brunch with breakfast burritos, sandwiches, and fresh-squeezed mimosas. Live music, Monday trivia, karaoke. College grads and young professionals pack the place on weekends. Same kitchen serves Millions Cafe across the street.
A gastropub pouring high-end craft beers and cocktails alongside scratch-made, chef-driven pub fare. Owners Jennifer Dean and Forrest Williams relocated from downtown Dayton to Uptown Centerville in 2025 after nearly a decade downtown. Named for the historic Mudlick Whiskey distillery that operated nearby until the 1913 flood. Dark hardwoods, stainless steel accents, and tufted booths create an upscale-yet-approachable atmosphere. Regional variations on traditional pub dishes emphasize mindfully sourced ingredients.
Soul food restaurant serving authentic Southern homestyle cooking with recipes passed down from owner Jade King's grandmother. Originally from Detroit, Jade started the business in 2018 setting up tents to cook outside for the Middletown community before opening full sit-down restaurants. Menu stars include famous fried chicken, seafood weekends featuring crab legs and lobster boils, fall-off-the-bone ribs, smothered pork chops, savory collard greens, cheesy mac and cheese, candied yams, and homemade desserts like banana pudding and chocolate cake. Known for warm hospitality where Jade greets customers like family, creating a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home. Food is "Flavored with God's Favor and Highly Seasoned with Love."
Opened in 1983 inside the historic Mariemont Inn, this neighborhood restaurant takes its name from founder Mary Emery’s vision of Mariemont as a “national exemplar” community. The menu centers on approachable American cuisine served throughout the day, enjoyed in a spacious dining room or on a relaxed outdoor patio. Just off the lobby, Southerby’s Pub offers a more intimate setting with fireplaces and classic lounge seating, making the experience feel as much about community and atmosphere as it is about the food.
Originally founded by Catherine Mac Dowall in 2018, Naïve was acquired in November 2024 by Jessica and David Richter, restaurateurs who relocated from Denver to Louisville to run it hands-on. The Butchertown spot serves Latin-inspired share plates — ceviche tacos, empanadas, yuca fry poutine, Pambazo sandwiches — with a farm-to-table emphasis on local ingredients. The zen-like outdoor patio with string lights and fire pit is a date-night draw. Full cocktail program with craft margaritas and seasonal drinks.
Craft brewery and pizzeria founded in 1987; brews award-winning beers on-site (first commercial brewery in New Albany since 1935); serves hand-tossed, roundhouse, refrigerator-style, and upside-down pizzas, calzones, pasta, sandwiches, and beer cheese; extensive craft beer selection including house-brewed beers and guest taps from American and international breweries; visible R&D brewery in dining room.
A Monmouth Street staple for over a decade, built around hand-tossed, made-from-scratch New York–style pizza using fresh ingredients. Owner Mike has cultivated a community-driven pizzeria with signature creations like the Flying Pig, Pepperoni in Paradise, and the Cincinnatus (a chili cheese coney–inspired pie that surprises newcomers). The menu extends to hoagies, traditional Italian appetizers, and the house Spaghetti Knob Bocce ball. A substantial craft and import beer list plus wines by the glass or bottle round out the experience. Monday specials draw a loyal crowd. Free parking at the lot on Dayton Street.
A true neighborhood tavern in the quaint village of Newtown. The tavern-style pizza has earned a devoted following—thin crust, quality toppings, and consistently correct orders keep locals coming back weekly. Wings are another house specialty. The friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent local craft beer selection make it an easy choice for Friday happy hours or casual dinners. Summer brings outdoor seating on Main Street. Nothing fancy, just solid neighborhood bar food done right in a welcoming setting that feels like home.
Founded in 1949 by Nick Malavazos, this Xenia institution was revived in 2009 by Marc Perkins, who left a career in aircraft maintenance to restore the place to its former glory. Now a 76-year-old destination drawing crowds from across the region. Award-winning wings—double-fried for crispness and hand-floured—have won the Kickin' Chicken Wing Fest at Fraze Pavilion every year since its inception. The signature Sweet Hot Damn sauce starts mild then delivers serious heat. The legendary Big Nick burger is over half a pound of hand-pattied certified angus beef. Famous hand-sliced potato chips are soaked overnight. Everything scratch-made daily, sourcing from local suppliers. Cabin-pub atmosphere with beautiful patio overlooking the bike path.
Fine-dining Italian restaurant in a building that was once a barn for the city's 19th-century incline trolleys. Approaching 30 years of operation, consistently AAA 4-Diamond rated. Nicola Pietoso opened on Tax Day 1996 when people said a fine-dining restaurant in Over-the-Rhine would never work—he proved them wrong. When his beloved wife Maureen passed and Nicola faced a cancer diagnosis, son Cristian (already a respected chef/owner with his own restaurants) took over operations. Nicola is now cancer-free and runs the restaurant's wine program. All pastas, desserts, and breads handmade fresh daily. Famous bread basket. 5-course Chef Crafted Grand Tasting Experience. Private dining rooms for up to 80 guests. Valet parking available ($10 Mon–Thu, $15 Fri–Sat). In March 2025, owners announced plans to move to 127 W. Fourth St. (former Pigall's space) in 2026. As of January 2026, Chef Cristian reversed course, citing patron feedback about the original building's significance—Nicola's will remain at the Sycamore Street location.
Opened in 2016 and now a cult favorite in the heart of Pleasant Ridge, Nine Giant is the kind of brewpub where the food program gets talked about as much as the beer. The wings rotate as Thursday night specials with creative flavors like Smokey Sambal, Bacon Pineapple Habanero, and smoked wings with fresh Fresno Chile Buffalo sauce — not your standard bar wing program. Scratch kitchen, burgers, brisket chili, and a menu that changes often enough to keep regulars coming back. Expanded in 2024 with an additional 800 square feet and 50 more seats. For the beer-focused crowd, the Fermentorium at 6111 Ridge Ave around the corner handles barrel-aged and experimental offerings — drinks only. CityBeat has called out Nine Giant's wings specifically.
Named one of the New York Times' 50 Best Restaurants in America for 2024—the only Kentucky restaurant on the list. Chef Lawrence Weeks, a 2024 James Beard Award semifinalist raised in a Creole and Cajun household, brings New Orleans soul to Louisville's Germantown neighborhood. The gumbo is dark and enticing, thick with smoked brisket and wilted greens. Fried catfish comes under a drift of Haitian pikliz. Over 300 bourbons and 26 signature cocktails complement the menu.
Founded summer 2015 by Jon Weiner and Stuart MacKenzie—both veterans of Wellmann's Brands cocktail bars. Stuart now runs the show solo. Named for 1937 flood photos showing Northsiders floating in rowboats down Spring Grove Ave. Nautical-themed gastropub with ropes, dive helmets, and life preservers. Two-story patio with outdoor bar. Some of the best wings in the city. Fresh cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients—no freezer, no microwave. Craft beer focus with local breweries. Weekend brunch features Bloody Mary garnished with smoked wing, bacon, and pulled pork slider. Live music venue. Approaching 10th anniversary. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Anchoring the charming O'Bryonville district since the late 1980s, O'Bryon's was reimagined in 2010 under local ownership, transforming into an award-winning neighborhood institution. The sprawling space features two full bars, a rooftop patio, and brick-lined warmth with flat screens throughout. Their signature Flying Pig Wings come with 13 house-made sauces including the standout Habanero Ranch, while the famous Shark Tank cocktail—served in a 32-ounce souvenir cup with a grenadine-filled plastic shark—has achieved legendary status. Beyond the wings, expect classic pub comfort food with creative touches: beer-battered chicken tenders, the O'Bryon's Burger, and generous wraps.
Highly rated authentic Mexican street food haven established in 2021, serving as a cultural melting pot where diverse backgrounds blend over time-honored recipes and locally sourced ingredients. Named after the Spanish word for cooking pot, Olla celebrates the power of food to unite the community, offering traditional tacos, authentic flavors that transport diners to the streets of Mexico, and a welcoming space where people from all walks of life gather to share stories and bond over genuine Mexican cuisine in Covington's vibrant community.
Built inside the old Oakley Building and Loan since 2003 — the safes are beer coolers now. Featured in Cincinnati Magazine for their top ten burger, best Bloody Mary, and best Trivia Night, but the wings are what keeps people coming back. Bone-in or boneless with ten sauces plus dry rub options, and a house-made blue cheese that gets its own mentions. Monday is 50-cent jumbo wing day, which tells you everything about the crowd. Heated patio, dog friendly, outdoor bar. A neighborhood fixture that doesn't need to advertise. Takeout available.
Bright and vibrant Hawaiian restaurant bringing the aloha spirit to Court Street Plaza since 2023, after outgrowing its original Oakley Kitchen stall. Classic plate lunches—Shoyu Chicken, Teriyaki Beef, Huli Huli Chicken—served with two scoops rice and mac salad. Scratch-made with organic eggs for housemade mayo, Sakura Farms wagyu for teri beef. Spam musubi, lumpia, vegan options. Full bar with tiki cocktails. QR ordering, weekend brunch, patio seating.
Kosher fast-casual bistro near Cincinnati Eye Institute in Blue Ash, reportedly built by a local businessman who owns nursing homes—wanting to ensure observant employees had somewhere to eat. Contemporary self-service format with digital ordering screens. Menu features smoothies, salads, falafel plates, pizzas, and healthy grab-and-go choices. Vibrant space with ample indoor and outdoor seating. Notable for having Cincinnati's only kosher sukkah for dining out during Sukkot—an expertly built structure behind the building in a park-like setting.
Born in 2020 as a gourmet take-and-bake pizza spin-off of the original Padrino in Milford, Ohio, this Fort Thomas location has evolved into a full-service Italian pizzeria serving "Italian comfort food that rivals your grandma." The affordable family spot features pizzas, classic pastas, and Italian hoagies alongside rotating craft beers, seasonal cocktails, and weekly specials in a warm, naturally lit space. With outdoor patio seating and a reputation for generous portions and exceptional service, Padrino delivers cozy date nights and family dinners at prices that won't break the bank.
Founded July 2023 by Trevor Snowden, a native Cincinnatian and Hyde Park resident. Formerly of Thunderdome Restaurant Group where he oversaw OTR eateries like Eagle, Bakersfield, and Maplewood. Sister restaurant to Delwood in Mt. Lookout. Latin-influenced American bar food—empanadas, Peruvian-marinated chargrilled chicken sandwiches, pimento burgers, hand-battered chicken tenders. Snowden's mother is Peruvian, and that heritage shows in the flavors. Great patio overlooking Hyde Park Square. TVs for sports. First-come, first-serve seating.
Taqueria by Derrick Braziel bringing vibrant energy of Mexico City street food to downtown Cincinnati. Started as food truck in 2019 before opening permanent location 2024. Name pays homage to Cincinnati Reds and Mexico City's Diablos Rojos baseball team. Signature tacos al pastor cooked on trompo alongside bistec, campechano, and seasonal vegetarian options. Locally sourced ingredients with authentic Mexico City taqueria spirit.
In January 2000, a few Loveland locals saw the need for a family-friendly establishment and purchased one of the town's oldest buildings in the Historic District, adjacent to the Little Miami Scenic Bike Trail. Named for the area's first settler, Lt. Colonel Thomas Paxton (who ate Christmas dinner at Valley Forge with George Washington), the restaurant serves traditional bar favorites—burgers, wings, paninis—alongside an excellent breakfast menu with standout omelets. Part-owner Ralph Dunnigan, now semi-retired, has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charities through the restaurant, earning him the Colonel Paxton Ranger award for distinguished community service. Partner Kevin Egan oversees operations, including sister restaurant Ramsey's Trailside next door.
Yellow Springs standard for over 20 years. Started in 1997 as a one-room cantina with BBQ and Tex-Mex crafted by the original "Peach Fuzz" in what was formerly Eddie's Liquor and Drive Thru. Expanded in 2005 to add live music stage and main bar. Now an eclectic full-service restaurant, bar, and live music venue with 21 rotating craft beers on tap. Tuesday open mic nights, Friday karaoke, Saturday live bands, comedy, and drag shows. Indoor and patio seating with TV monitors. Welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where diverse crowds come together.
Pearl Street Taphouse lives in a 135-year-old building that husband-and-wife team Teri and Kelly Conn saved from demolition and transformed into a beloved Jeffersonville destination with their 25+ years of restaurant and brew industry experience. This lovingly refurbished landmark serves as both neighborhood gathering spot and craft beer haven, built as much on the Conns' passion for local hospitality as it is on those original wooden beams.
Contemporary American bistro in The Clair Hotel, helmed by Chef Jacob Benavides (formerly chef de cuisine at Boca). Named after the historic flower cart that once occupied Fountain Square. Sustainably sourced menu blends classic comfort food with global flavors—Chicken Schnitzel, Amish Chicken Pressade, Grilled Prime New York with smoked beets. Local ingredients from Egg Shack and Sixteen Bricks Bakery. Happy hour weekdays, private dining available.
Casual Italian restaurant from Thunderdome Restaurant Group named after founders Joe and John Lanni's grandparents Giuseppe and Addolorata. Opened 2019 paying homage to family Sunday suppers with house-made pastas crafted daily visible through 15th Street window. Menu features cherished Lanni family recipes including Sunday Sauce with bigoli pasta, veal-pork meatballs, and braised pork shoulder in Nonna's red sauce. Curated Italian wines, craft cocktails including Fratelli Libre with house-bottled soda. Two-level space with classic bistro upstairs and intimate New York supper club atmosphere downstairs.
A contemporary Italian gem in Shelby Park with an open kitchen where skilled chefs craft ricotta cavatelli, margherita pizzas from imported flour, and seasonal small plates. The cocktail program—including standouts like the green apple mule and Italian margarita—perfectly complements the cuisine. Hip yet welcoming atmosphere with thoughtful design. A newer arrival building devoted following for its quality-focused approach to Italian classics.
Petra Mediterranean has been bringing authentic Middle Eastern flavors to Jeffersonville since 2013, serving rotisserie beef and lamb gyros alongside hummus that locals swear is the best in the region. The menu goes deep with harder-to-find dishes like chicken and steak shawarma, falafel, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and a full kabab selection—all made daily with traditional recipes and quality ingredients that keep the flavors vibrant.
Founded in 2010 by three childhood friends—Duy Nguyen, Bao Nguyen, and David Le—who simply wanted a pho shop to hang out at. The name "lang thang" means to wander aimlessly, a playful nod to what their Vietnamese parents called them as restless kids. The interior channels 1970s Saigon with bold floral wallpaper, honoring the family's 1975 immigration to Cincinnati. Pho broth slow-simmers for up to 48 hours in industrial kettles. Beyond the signature soups, expect crispy bánh mì, rice noodle salads, and house specials like shaken beef and grilled mussels topped with Vietnamese coriander.
Opened in March 2021 by couple Paul Montgomery and Christina Goehrig in a restored 1913 building that once served as California, Ohio's police station—the basement kitchen was the original horse stables. Meats smoked on-premise with scratch-made sides and sauces. The signature Pig Candy Waffle features pulled pork with maple peach glaze on a gluten-free waffle. Healthier sides and vegan goetta reflect the owners' evolving approach to BBQ. Second location opened in Loveland in October 2025.
When co-owners Christina Goehrig and Paul Montgomery went looking for a second location, they wanted something with character to match their jailhouse original—they found it in the former Branch Hill United Methodist Church. Insomnia Design preserved the stained glass windows and bell tower while converting the space into a proper barbecue joint. Opening day October 17, 2025, they tried to keep it quiet and sold out in under two hours. Steps from the Loveland Bike Trail and just off I-275, cyclists and families have made this a regular stop. Same scratch-made sauces and on-site smoking as Kellogg, with daily specials drawing crowds: ribs on Monday, Reubens Tuesday-Wednesday, and BBQ Potato Bombs on Thursday. The Brisket Grilled Cheese has already become a Loveland favorite. Heated deck keeps outdoor dining going year-round.
Wood-fired sourdough pizza baked at 900°F in a Ferrari-red oven imported from Modena, Italy. Housed in a lovingly restored circa-1860 Butchertown brick building, Lupo has earned devoted fans for Neapolitan-style pies with spectacular crust, handmade pasta, small plates, and natural wines sold at retail prices. The Sting Like A Bee pizza with hot honey is legendary. Own delivery team ensures fast, reliable service. No reservations—first come, first served.
Louisville's longest-running upscale Italian, established in 1992 by owner Tim Coury in the Crescent Hill neighborhood. Over 30 years of Northern Italian fine dining with Chef John Plymale (there since the beginning) as an ACF-certified executive chef. Extensive wine list, local craft beer, and a signature cocktail program. Known for scallops with polenta cakes, lamb chops, veal meatballs, and house-made pastas. VIP private room for events. Business casual dress code.
Social dining destination in downtown Lawrenceburg specializing in fine whiskey with 100+ bourbons and whiskeys, 18 beers on tap, and signature cocktails. Seasonal menu with diverse offerings, second-story outdoor patio overlooking the park and center stage, live music, and private event space for up to 100 guests with dedicated bar.
Chef-driven Asian gastropub serving bold street food since 2012 from the Lang Thang Group (Bao Nguyen, Duy Nguyen, Danny Yant, Mike Dew). Modern take on pan-Asian flavors with signature okonomiyaki (savory Japanese cabbage pancakes), inventive ramen bowls, garlic noodles, banh mi, and rotating creative dishes like spam musubi and poke bowls. Full Vietnamese coffee program from Lang Thang Coffee Company including traditional drip and new-school coconut coffee drinks. Open-air dining with entire Vine Street side opening up for sidewalk cafe atmosphere. Full bar featuring craft cocktails, sake, beer, and natural wines. Breakfast available with fresh bao buns and Vietnamese coffee. Weekly trivia nights and late-night dining.
The second location of a Norwood institution that opened in 1966, transplanted to Mason’s West Main Street with the same family ownership, the same half-pound cheeseburger, and the same stubborn refusal to overthink it. Daily lunch specials, homemade soups, chicken salad, and mock turtle soup give the menu more range than the flagship, and the outdoor patio is a warm-weather draw for the suburbs. Paper plates, cold beer in frosty mugs, and an easygoing pace. Not trying to be a neighborhood bar — turns out it already is one.
A Cincinnati institution since 1966, still family-owned and operated by Matt Imm, son of co-founder Albert Imm. The half-pound cheeseburger — made from a Wassler’s Meats chuck blend, the sole supplier since day one — is the undisputed draw. Order it without specifying temperature; it comes out exactly right. The in-house deli in the back still sells cheese and lunch meat by the pound. Gingham tablecloths, a cherry bar, daily specials, and a Monday cheeseburger-fries-and-beer deal that borders on criminal.
The brick-and-mortar expansion of the Taco Queen operation that earned its name on Old Union Road. The Florence location on Turfway brings the same street-style Mexican to a more accessible spot — tacos, burritos, quesadillas, fajitas, and birria that reviewers are already tracking down from across the region. Covered outdoor seating adds to the experience. Still building its reputation in Florence, backed by the credibility already earned in Union.
Opened 2025 by Georgetown native Justin Juhasz, who also owns Floyd Farm & Feed. The two-story brewhouse takes design inspiration from the railroad tracks running through historic downtown Georgetown, located adjacent to the town's sports park. House beers brewed on-site through EZBREWS partnership with fresh taps rotating weekly. Menu highlights local sourcing—Fischer Farms pork and bacon, Sirocco Ridge Farm goat cheese—across elevated pub fare like cabbage rolls, smoked wings, and loaded mac. Second-floor patio overlooks Georgetown Park.
The original. Founded 2000 by Italian-American brothers Tony and Gino Ramundo using their father's recipes—bringing New York-style pizza by the slice to Cincinnati before anyone else. Gino passed away in 2006; Tony continues the family legacy. Voted Best Pizza Sauce by Cincinnati Magazine. Tiny spot mostly for takeout with just two tables. Open until 4am Friday and Saturday for late-night cravings. Try the 26-inch pizza challenge: you and a partner have 10 minutes to finish a two-topping pie with extra cheese—beat it and it's free.
The second location carrying on a family pizza tradition rooted in recipes dating back to 1954. The same scratch-made dough, house sausage, and signature sauce that built the Yankee Rd original — now closer to Fairfield and Hamilton. The menu covers pizza, ribs, steak hoagies, Italian subs, and homemade desserts. Dinner-only hours keep the focus tight, with a Wednesday-through-Sunday schedule that makes every night feel intentional. A quieter, more neighborhood-driven complement to the flagship location. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Opened in 2008 to honor a family pizza legacy that traces back to 1954. Homemade dough, signature sauce, and house-made sausage are all prepared from scratch using original family recipes. The menu goes well beyond pizza — baby back ribs, steak hoagies, classic Italian subs, pasta, and homemade desserts all have a following. The dining room is cozy and casual, with local craft beers on draft and a strip-center location that belies the quality inside. This is the original Raymond's and the heart of the operation.
Louisville's first whole-animal butcher shop with restaurant serving meats from local farms committed to sustainable, humane, ethical practices. Constantly changing chalkboard menu built around live-fire cooking. Smoked half chicken with Alabama white sauce, lamb kabobs, beef tartar, house charcuterie. Everything from butchery to sausage making to stocks executed in-house. Full bar with classic cocktails and food-friendly wines. Butcher shop can be rented for private dinner experiences.
Red Yeti brings CIA-trained Chef Bowe's award-winning farm-to-table cooking to a historic 1881 building in Jeffersonville, partnering with local farms to create unique, flavorful dishes that make this one of the region's most talked-about dining experiences. The bar matches the kitchen's commitment with scratch cocktails made from house-made syrups and locally sourced ingredients, all served in a space that's spent 140+ years as everything from a pool hall to a corvette parts store.
Co-founded in 2017 by Anthony Maieron and John Coleman (JC) with their wives Jodi and Amy—both couples were coworkers at Cincinnati Bell. Anthony's family brought winemaking traditions from Italy, where his grandfather grew grapes and his father made sangiovese in their garage with friends. All wines made 100% on-site using a process passed down through the Maieron family. Fruit sourced from California, Washington, and Chile. Master Vintner Alex Sena oversees production in the basement, which houses up to 60 barrels. 2023 gold medalists at Cincinnati International Wine Festival. Three-story 1885 building with live music, rooftop patio, and event space.
Key West-themed floating seafood restaurant delivering island atmosphere with Ohio River views from April through October. Family-owned by Capt. Mike and First Mate Darcy, featuring fresh sustainable seafood with signature blackened mahi mahi, signature blend burgers (short-rib, brisket, sirloin), and frosty tropical drinks. Live Key West music transports diners straight to the Florida Keys while "crew member" staff serves the whole family in a laid-back island setting where "the only thing we overlook is the water."
Family-owned sports bar built on the premise that you deserve better than chain restaurant food from a box. The kitchen delivers on that promise with freshly ground burgers, hand-sliced Philly cheesesteaks, homemade slow-roasted beef, scratch-made soups, sauces, and coleslaw. The wings earned "Dayton's Best" honors at Kickin' Chickin Wing Fest four consecutive years (2013-2016). Don't skip the famous turkey balls. Three 110" projection screens and a wall of HDTVs make this NFL Sunday Ticket and Ohio State headquarters. Kid-friendly gaming area and Sunday "Kids Eat Free" keep it a true family spot. Fish Fry Fridays and Monday wing nights pack the house.
A fixture in Vevay for decades, tucked on Ferry Street in one of Indiana's oldest river towns. The breadsticks alone have a reputation that draws people from neighboring counties — fresh, garlicky, buttered, and served piping hot. The menu covers Italian-American fundamentals: pizza, calzones, antipasto, spaghetti, fettuccine alfredo, chicken dishes, and subs. Nothing overreaches. A Friday lunch buffet runs 11am–2pm. Family atmosphere, casual setting, consistent kitchen. The kind of place locals get carry-out from to leave room for visitors.
Boundary-pushing steakhouse from Epic Brands founders reinventing fine dining with eclectic maximalist design and approachable hospitality. Named Top 10 Best Steakhouses in Cincinnati by CityBeat, S.O.B. delivers premium steakhouse quality without white tablecloths or pretentious atmosphere. Menu showcases USDA Prime and Wagyu beef, caviar service, shaved truffles, and gold-leaf options alongside fresh seafood, scratch-made pastas, creative burgers, and inventive salads. Vegetarian options include cauliflower steaks and black truffle gnocchi. Show-stopping desserts feature theatrical presentations with dry ice cotton candy trees and 24-karat gold-adorned cakes. Vibrant interior explodes with colorful murals, captivating sculptures, mismatched chandeliers, and signature bathtub photo prop. Expansive patio offers gorgeous outdoor dining with fresh flowers and fans. Three-hundred-plus wine bottles, craft cocktails, and attentive service complete the experience.
Urban-style gastropub, Victorian post-industrial decor. Chef-driven seasonal menu, everything made from scratch, no freezer. Extensive gluten-free options (90% of menu), dedicated gluten-free fryer. Menu: Southern gluten-free fried chicken (bestseller), butternut squash sage carbonara (pappardelle, Brussels sprouts, bacon), twin filet mignon with whipped potatoes and celeriac, shrimp scampi pasta, vegetable biryani, spicy pimento cheese dip with pork rinds, cheddar scallion biscuits, fried bologna pretzel sandwich, mushroom lentil burger. Chef's table in open kitchen. Nine signature cocktails by Level 2 sommelier Scott Schmidt, extensive bourbon selection, craft beers.
A modern diner and bar in the heart of Over-the-Rhine known for its elevated comfort food and creative twists on classic plates. The menu spans all-day breakfast and brunch favorites through hearty burgers, sandwiches, and inventive entrées, often blending familiar diner sensibilities with unexpected flavors and ingredients. With a lively atmosphere, full bar, and thoughtful approach to both food and drink, it feels equally fitting for weekend brunch, casual dinners, or gatherings with friends in a relaxed yet vibrant setting.
Cozy candlelit Moroccan-inspired wine bar and lounge by Jose and Ann Salazar, opened June 2024 in former Salazar restaurant space. Inspired by couple's Morocco travels. Mediterranean-focused wine list, craft cocktails, Moroccan small plates including chicken pastilla cigars, lamb tagine with hand-rolled couscous, Zalouk (eggplant-tomato compote), grilled octopus, oysters, and caviar bumps. Moody, intimate atmosphere with pillows, cushions, and terra cotta accents evoking Marrakesh nightlife vibe.
A creative Southeast Asian kitchen blending Malaysian influences with modern, locally inspired cooking. The menu spans rich curries, layered noodle dishes, thoughtfully prepared proteins, and composed small plates, with clearly marked vegetarian and vegan options woven throughout. Ingredients are handled with care, balancing bold spice with restraint and technique. The dining room feels intimate and warm, encouraging a slower, more engaged meal. It’s a place for diners who appreciate depth of flavor, cultural range, and food that feels intentional rather than trendy.
Opened September 2025 in the former Red Feather Kitchen/Boca space. Owner Alex Plattner's first dine-in location after four years of takeout success in Hyde Park. 75 seats plus private dining room. Same artisan pizzas as the original—New York/New Haven-inspired and tavern-style thin crust—now enjoyed fresh from the oven instead of a takeout box. Expanded menu includes salads, sides, desserts, beer and wine. Local sourcing continues: Rich Life Farm & Fungi, TS Farms, Urban Stead Cheese. Designed in collaboration with Cincinnati-based Indio.
An Oregon District standout featuring world-fusion cuisine that weaves Peruvian, French, and Mediterranean influences into a chef-driven menu. Executive Chef Margot Blondet highlights her Peruvian heritage with dishes ranging from empanadas and ceviche to refined entrées like surf & turf and seasonal seafood. The space blends casual elegance with two outdoor patios and full bars, ideal for date nights or craft cocktail dinners. Certified green and heartfelt in its sustainability ethos, this restaurant is prized for its inventive flavors and vibrant presentation.
James Beard-nominated Chef Jose Salazar's flagship restaurant reopened November 2024 in new downtown location below Paycor headquarters—nearly five times larger than original OTR space. Farm-inspired New American cuisine celebrating seasonal ingredients with creative, refined yet approachable plates. Menu features prime ribeye, seafood towers, signature "Lil fried oyster slider," and rotating seasonal dishes.
Anderson Township's neighborhood anchor since 1926 — nearly a century of bar burgers, wings, and cold beer. Award-winning burgers are cooked to order and sized generously, with the mushroom and swiss and cowboy burger drawing steady repeat business. The menu covers the pub classics well: fried mushrooms, chicken tenders, quesadillas, taco salads. A patio extends the space seasonally. Late hours on weekends make it a go-to well past the dinner window. No-frills, no-gimmicks, and no plans to change.
The American Dream served on a bun. Sammy Flores emigrated from Mexico in 2003, washed dishes at a chain restaurant for two years, then opened his first venture—El Pueblo—in 2005. By 2009 he was ready for his next chapter: a sports-themed burger joint honoring his adopted country's iconic food. The custom blend of all-natural brisket and sirloin arrives fresh, never frozen, hand-pattied and char-grilled to order. Themed burgers celebrate local sports heroes (try the Anthony Muñoz with chorizo and corn fritters), while 25+ craft beers rotate on tap. Walls packed with sports memorabilia and screens tuned to every game make this a neighborhood destination for Bengals Sundays and FC Cincinnati watch parties alike.
A vibrant vibe. Sanctuary Social is a warm, inviting gathering place designed for friends, families, and neighbors to connect over shareable plates, craft cocktails, curated wines, and thoughtful pairings that encourage conversation. Beyond the dining experience, Sanctuary Social hosts exclusive club events, chef-inspired dinners, and community gatherings that make each visit feel both personal and memorable.
Open since 1912 and still in the hands of the founding family, this downtown Cincinnati institution takes its name from a story: founder Salvatore Scoleri befriended Metropolitan Opera star Antonio Scotti in Philadelphia in 1911 and asked to honor him with the name of his new restaurant. Four generations of the DiMarco family later, the mosaic tile walls, Chianti bottles overhead, and check tablecloths are all still there. Entrees come with minestrone soup, salad, and housemade garlic bread. The veal preparations run deep, and the cannoli and tiramisu are made in house. One of the longest continuously operating Italian restaurants in Ohio.
On the top floor of a century-old urban firehouse in downtown Covington, above Flying Axes, this art-infused cocktail bar opened in 2023. The open-format interior features a signature indoor tree installation hung with rare spirits curated by Find Otherwhere, expressive murals, and intimate seating nooks. Specialty cocktails run $13–$14 — including the S'more Espresso Martini and The Covington, built with cacao-infused bourbon, Torino vermouth, Pasubio, cherry bark bitters, and vanilla. The rooftop patio opens onto Mainstrasse Village below, offering a tighter space with a better angle on the street than anything at ground level.
A Creole-Sicilian fusion restaurant housed in the legendary Willow Lake Tavern building in Anchorage. Owner Alan Salmon drew on 25 years of running the original Selena's in Tampa—named after Selena Giacona, the matriarch whose recipes inspired the kitchen—and brought the concept to Louisville. Fresh seafood is flown in daily from the East Coast, anchoring a menu of po'boys, gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, stuffed shrimp, and Sicilian pastas. The outdoor courtyard with a koi pond and the signature beignets at Saturday and Sunday brunch are local favorites.
Gourmet hot dog and gastropub from Queen City Hospitality Group, founded by husband-and-wife team Dan and Lana Wright. All-beef hot dogs made locally by Avril-Bleh & Sons with creative toppings including the Croque Madame (béchamel, black forest ham, poached egg on brioche) and Mexico City (guacamole, chipotle crema, bacon, queso fresco, tortilla strips). Full menu features Nashville hot chicken sandwich, gyros, burgers, and house-made falafel. Duck fat fries, truffle fries with harissa aioli, and poutine with local cheese curds and braised short rib gravy. Featured on Cooking Channel's "The Best Thing I Ever Ate." Airy, spacious dining room with outdoor patio in Summit Park.
Chef-owner Anthony Lamas has been putting Louisville on the culinary map since 2005 with his Nuevo Latino cuisine. A four-time James Beard Award semifinalist and Food Network's Extreme Chef winner, Lamas blends his Mexican and Puerto Rican heritage with locally sourced Southern ingredients. All seafood follows Monterey Bay Aquarium's sustainable guidelines. The seasonal patio along Bardstown Road is among the city's best. Known for ceviches, churrascos, and creative cocktails.
Local pizzeria known for thin-crust pizza baked in fire-bricked ovens, featuring a lunch buffet and menu items including spaghetti, wings, and soft pretzels with warm cheese. Operating with the tagline "Squarely the Best," Sherrilli's offers dine-in, delivery, and takeout with affordable prices and a cozy atmosphere.
Shift Restaurant & Bar offers a welcoming dining experience in Bright, Indiana, featuring a locally-driven menu of contemporary American favorites and pub classics, including burgers, tacos, and unique brunch meals in a casual, heart-warming setting. With a full bar, seasonal outdoor seating, and entertainment like live music, it’s a go-to spot for gatherings with family and friends. Diners appreciate the friendly service, quality comfort food, and relaxed atmosphere that make it a reliable neighborhood restaurant and bar.
BBQ, live music, and moonshine destination in the heart of Newport offering mouthwatering BBQ in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with friendly staff and diverse menu for leisurely dinners, quick lunches, or solo meals at the bar. Features newly renovated speakeasy with one-of-a-kind moonshine tasting experience perfect for groups and private events, creating a relaxed setting where laughter flows freely alongside great food, music, and conversation on the levee.
Owned by six-time World Pizza Champion Brittany Saxton, who purchased the restaurant in 2023 after 13+ years in the industry. Named for the 600-degree temperature of their old-world brick ovens. Located in a beautifully renovated former JC Penney building with restored stamped metal ceilings and views into the open kitchen. Dough made in-house daily, local farm-raised products including Blue Jacket Dairy feta cheese. Over 100,000 unique customers annually. Wine room with stone walls for private events.
Back-to-back Best of NKY BBQ winner (2017 & 2018), Smokin' This and That brings authentic Southern barbecue to Florence with old-school cherry and hickory wood smoking techniques that make sauce optional—pitmasters Guy and Mandy Cummins' secret dry rub creates fall-off-the-bone ribs, brisket, and pulled pork so tender it'll land in your lap. Since starting in a backyard kitchen in 2013, this family-run community hub (now celebrating 10+ years and planning a second location) has become legendary for signature creations like the BBQ Parfait (layered meat, beans, and Miss Mandy's house-made slaw) and BBQ tacos with secret avocado sauce, all served in a welcoming space that offers military and first responder discounts and proves the best days are spent with family and good food.
An intimate, subterranean Italian dining experience set beneath the streets of downtown Cincinnati, known for its candlelit atmosphere and unhurried pacing. The menu centers on house-made pastas, traditional Italian preparations, and thoughtfully sourced ingredients, designed for lingering over multiple courses rather than rushing through a meal. With a focus on warmth, conversation, and timeless technique, the space naturally lends itself to date nights, celebrations, and evenings where the setting is as memorable as what’s on the plate.
Family-owned classic American diner in an iconic 1950s building opened in 1958 and revived by the Copley family in 2024; serves breakfast and lunch featuring goetta, eggs, biscuits and gravy, hash browns, the signature Spare Burger (similar to Big Boy), burgers with crinkle-cut fries, Philly cheesesteaks, wings, pickle fries, onion rings, chicken tenders, and soft-serve ice cream served from the front window; known for homemade cream pies.
Ohio's best-kept secret hiding in plain sight. Kim Frazier—Springfield native—bought the former Nifty 50's Bar in 2018, chasing a lifelong dream of owning a restaurant. After a year building out the kitchen, she brought in Executive Chef Clayton Horrighs, whose pan-Asian expertise spans Japan, Vietnam, China, and Korea. When the neighborhood regulars weren't thrilled with ramen replacing their dive bar, Frazier hosted a soft opening for friends—and social media did the rest. Now people drive two, three hours for what Yelp voted best ramen in Ohio. The cozy 800-square-foot interior keeps the dive bar charm; the front patio is bigger than the dining room. Signature Tonkotsu ramen, JFC tacos, legendary shrimp rangoons. Local art on the walls, Ohio beers on tap. A five-star dive bar.
Self-described as 'casual, fine dining' with steak, seafood, and global influences—Italian, French, South American, Asian. Executive Chef Darin Mitchell grew up in Springfield, graduated first in his class at Scottsdale Culinary Institute. Cornerstone of downtown Springfield's restaurant revival.
Reopened in 2024, this revived neighborhood tavern brings new life to a historic Hamilton building that has served many roles over the decades, including its original run as The Stone Tavern from 1936 to 1972. Today, it offers a relaxed gathering place with craft cocktails, cold draft beer, and a menu that goes beyond typical bar food, blending pub favorites with traditional British dishes like shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, and fish and chips. Built by hand and run with intention, it feels rooted in community, history, and the simple idea of creating a place where people can come together and unwind.
Opened in December 2019 inside the former Sorrento's building, bringing authentic Old World-style brick oven pizza to Reading Road. All dough, sauces, and appetizers are made from scratch daily and baked in an Italian brick oven that serves as the visual centerpiece of the restaurant. The Pizza Alla Vodka is the signature, and the meatball sub has earned its own following. A full bar with craft beer, wine, and cocktails rounds out the experience. Private events and catering available. The laid-back atmosphere and open kitchen make it easy to settle in and watch the craft up close.
The West Side outpost of a family-owned pizzeria rooted in Old World-style brick oven technique. Same scratch-made dough, house sauces, and Italian brick oven as every Strong's location — just closer to Bridgetown and the Western Hills corridor. The Pizza Alla Vodka remains the signature, with a full menu of specialty pies, calzones, hero sandwiches, and famous meatballs. A full bar with craft beer, wine, and cocktails keeps the experience complete. Private event space available for groups. Closed Mondays — Tuesdays through Sundays only.
Strongs Brick Oven Pizzeria crafts authentic Old World-style pizza made from scratch daily and baked in Italian brick ovens for unmatched flavor. Founded in Newport in 2012, this local favorite has expanded across Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati with award-winning pies like the Pizza Alla Vodka, plus fresh appetizers and salads all made in-house.
Three-time James Beard nominee/finalist Chef Jorge Guzman presents elevated Mexican cuisine built around a scratch masa program using heirloom corn imported from Oaxacan farmers. Tortillas are ground on volcanic basalt stones; dishes are prepared over a live-fire hearth in an open kitchen. Wine Director Lauren Gay curates one of the region's best beverage programs. The AIA award-winning design occupies the historic Avant-Garde building directly above sister concept Tender Mercy. Complimentary valet parking daily.
A Cincinnati breakfast institution since 1941. What started with Mort Keller's secret-recipe Wispy Thin Pancakes has delighted generations of diners for over 80 years. The menu has changed little—huge fluffy omelets, creative sandwiches with playful names like "Cuddlin' Puppy" and "Slaughterhouse Five," and those famous wispy thins remain the draw. Neal and Adam Mayerson are the 6th owners of this family-owned restaurant, having acquired the original Paddock Hills location in 2019 before expanding to OTR (2020) and this Summit Park location (January 2023). The Blue Ash outpost sits in The Approach, on land that was once Cincinnati's municipal airfield.
Sugar n' Spice's second location, opened July 2020 inside a restored piece of Cincinnati history. In 1984, diner-loving developer Phillip Adelman moved an old-school diner car to this Sycamore Street spot, fulfilling a childhood dream of creating "a friendly place where you felt comfortable and relaxed." After nearly 25 years as Joe's Diner, the building sat abandoned until the Mayersons restored and renovated it, preserving the vintage diner car that makes this location bright and unique. Same secret-recipe Wispy Thin Pancakes, same rubber ducky tradition, same family-friendly vibe—just with more space and that classic diner-car charm.
From-scratch cooking in a building that started as a butcher shop in 1948. Owner Brian Rainey bought it in 2004 and increased organic sourcing 500 percent, now working with 18 local farms. Everything made in-house: breads, veggie burgers, gyros, jams, hot sauce, dressings, soups—down to the pickles.
Sushi and Boba Tea House covers both cravings in downtown Jeffersonville with a full menu of sushi rolls—from classic California rolls to signature creations like the Waterfall Roll loaded with fried shrimp, crab, and three sauces—plus a boba tea bar serving everything from classic milk tea to combo flavors like peach-mango. The kitchen also cranks out teriyaki plates, pho, yakisoba noodles, and fried rice, making it easy to mix sushi with whatever else you're hungry for.
A lively Cajun and Creole kitchen blending bold Southern flavors with casual American fare in Cincinnati’s East End. The menu stretches from jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish etouffée to blackened seafood and smoked barbecue classics, and a celebrated Hot Sauce Wall with over 30 heat levels keeps spice lovers coming back. With a full bar, outdoor seating, and a welcoming atmosphere that pairs well with its rich, savory dishes, it’s a fun and flavorful destination for a group dinner or casual night out.
A food trailer on Old Union Road that built one of the most loyal followings in Boone County entirely on word of mouth. People drive 45 minutes from Cincinnati just for the burritos and queso. Al pastor with a scratch-made smoky hot sauce is the signature, birria is the other reason to make the trip. Portions are serious — the burrito runs close to two pounds. No brick and mortar, no signage that makes it easy to find, and a customer base that keeps coming back anyway. The real thing, out of a trailer, in Union, Kentucky.
Authentic Mexican street food spot serving fresh, generously portioned tacos, tortas, and burritos made with your choice of proteins including chorizo, grilled chicken, barbacoa, carnitas, and the fan-favorite quesa-birria. Homemade tamales and sopes alongside fresh salsa keep regulars coming back, while the modest building with outdoor seating offers a peaceful spot to enjoy flavors that locals call the best tacos in the area. Reasonable prices—three tacos and a Mexican Coke for around $15—and friendly service make this unassuming taqueria a go-to for those craving genuine Mexican flavors without the corporate polish.
Tacos Los Compadres is a vibrant Mexican restaurant in Crittenden, KY, serving authentic flavors that transport you to the heart of Mexico. Founded with a passion for sharing delicious food with the community, our menu features a mouthwatering selection of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites. In addition to our dine-in experience, we also offer a food truck for on-the-go tasty meals, catering services for special events, and exclusive holiday specials to add some fiesta to your celebrations.
Detroit-style and New York-style pizzeria by brothers Jared and Nicolas Wayne with partner Jake Goodwin. Original Taglio location opened 2016 serving square Detroit-style pies with caramelized cheese edges alongside traditional New York slices. Fresh ingredients with curated wines, craft beers, and cocktails. Full menu including appetizers, salads, and gelato available for dine-in, delivery, and pickup. FC Cincinnati Pub Partner with sports viewing. Private dining room seats 16 with two TVs.
Detroit-style and New York-style pizzeria by brothers Jared and Nicolas Wayne with partner Jake Goodwin. Original Taglio location opened 2016 serving square Detroit-style pies with caramelized cheese edges alongside traditional New York slices. Fresh ingredients with curated wines, craft beers, and cocktails. Full menu including appetizers, salads, and gelato available for dine-in, delivery, and pickup. FC Cincinnati Pub Partner with sports viewing. Private dining room seats 16 with two TVs.
The concept began with an orange Post-It note reading "TACOS" stuck to founder Scott Schmidt's wall—a reminder of the fast-casual taqueria he envisioned. That vision became reality in 2017 when Tahona opened in Blue Ash's Summit Park, bringing California-inspired Mexican street fare to the suburbs. The kitchen operates on a "fresh-to-taco" philosophy: slow-roasted meats, house-made salsas, and scratch preparations throughout. Tacos arrive on flour or corn tortillas with fillings like fish topped with pineapple-mango pico or vegetable with marinated tofu. The bar pours a deep tequila selection anchored by signature fresh-ginger margaritas.
Covington's authentic Northern Indian restaurant specializes in tandoori oven dishes and exotic curries made fresh daily, with spice levels customizable from 1-6. The menu showcases classics like chicken tikka masala, saag paneer, and ginger lamb alongside unique breads including kashmiri naan studded with raisins and coconut. The full bar features four Indian beers and Sula wine, complementing a diverse menu that ranges from vegetarian specialties to lamb and seafood dishes.
A family-owned staple of Louisville's east end since 1996, specializing in North Indian cuisine prepared with traditional culinary techniques. The tandoor oven is central to the kitchen, turning out expertly marinated meats and freshly baked naan. The menu spans a wide range of chicken, lamb, seafood, and vegetarian dishes with spice levels adjusted to each guest's preference. Known for generous portions, warm service, and a comfortable dining room with white tablecloths. A four-time Louisville A-List winner and recognized as one of the Best of Kentuckiana.
Chef Gaetano "Tano" Williams has been working in kitchens for over 40 years, and this Hamilton outpost—his 40th restaurant opening—brings upscale casual dining to the riverfront. Opened August 2019 by Tano and his wife Gina, the contemporary space overlooks Marcum Park and reflects Hamilton's downtown revival. The seasonally changing menu emphasizes local sourcing and sustainability, with standouts like stuffed salmon, pan-seared striped bass with beurre rouge, and crispy polenta cakes. Recently became one of the first Cincinnati-area restaurants certified seed oil-free. Take a craft cocktail to-go and explore the park, or settle into the patio for weekend brunch. The catering operation ranks among Cincinnati's top-rated.
The original Tano Bistro began when Chef Gaetano "Tano" Williams and wife Gina started catering from their home kitchen, quickly outgrowing it and renovating a historic building in downtown Loveland in December 2009. After a devastating fire engulfed the building and neighboring apartment on May 28, 2017, what might have ended the story became an opportunity—the Williams family purchased and rebuilt, emerging as a three-story oasis with rooftop dining, three bars, and private event space. Now one of the first Cincinnati-area restaurants certified seed oil-free, the seasonally changing menu highlights local farms like Foxtail in New Richmond. Signature cocktails—particularly the old fashioneds with blue cheese-stuffed olive martinis featuring "ducks on the pond" ice chips—rival any craft bar in the city. The large front windows put you right in the charm of historic downtown Loveland, steps from the Little Miami Scenic Bike Trail.
The downtown Cincinnati outpost of the beloved Fairfield original, opened by the same family who came from Chicago in 1999. Located in the heart of downtown near the Aronoff Center for the Arts and Fountain Square, this location serves the same authentic, time-honored Mexican family recipes in a vibrant, historic building. The menu features genuine taco fillings like barbacoa, carnitas, tripe, and goat served traditional style on corn tortillas with onions and cilantro. Full bar with imported Mexican and domestic beers, margaritas, and traditional cocktails. Fresh-baked desserts including Three Milk Cake, Flan, Fried Ice Cream, and Sopapilla. Popular for pre-theater dining with accommodating staff who understand time constraints. Catering available for downtown events and business luncheons.
A Fairfield institution since 1990, this family-owned-and-operated restaurant has served authentic Mexican family recipes for over 35 years. President Lourdes Leon oversees operations featuring traditional dishes passed down through generations. The menu spans breakfast (available as plates, tortas, or burritos), lunch specials ($7.75), and dinner with tacos, enchiladas, burritos, tamales, fajitas, and seafood including oysters on the half-shell and shrimp cocktails. Tortas are made with fresh bread from neighboring Panaderia La Mexicana. Full bar with margaritas, Mexican sodas, and horchata. The festive, family-friendly atmosphere makes it a local favorite for everything from quick lunches to celebrations.
A distinct Thai dining experience in Dayton's Oregon District blending authentic Thai classics with sushi and sashimi in an inviting setting. Signature curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes deliver bold, balanced flavors rooted in traditional Thai spice profiles, while sushi offerings showcase delicate preparation and fresh seafood. An extensive list of wines, craft beers, and spirits pairs nicely with both the fiery and savory dishes. Lunch and dinner are served in a polished yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a standout for both casual meals and special evenings.
Neighborhood bar & grill in a historic 1894 building that served as Masonic Lodge, schoolhouse, and movie theater before becoming today's beloved gathering spot. Four distinct spaces include Main Dining Room with gas fireplace and exposed brick, casual Red Room hosting trivia nights, Second Floor lounge with wood pellet stove and parlor games, and lively bar featuring reclaimed Indiana wood. Diverse menu, weekly specials, craft cocktails, and warm hospitality where locals and visitors unwind in Southern Indiana history.
A 70-year Cincinnati institution reborn. What started as Etter's Golf Center in 1950 was reimagined in June 2022 by managing partner Todd Gailar, an Etter's regular who saw untapped potential in the aging facility. Rather than demolish the original buildings, the team renovated them—preserving decades of family memories while adding a full-service restaurant, bar, two 18-hole mini golf courses, 40 driving range bays (18 covered and heated), and a Trackman simulator room. Chef LeRoy Ansley (formerly of Senate) designed the menu of "elevated American classics," anchored by the All American Burger featuring a short rib and brisket blend from local Avril-Bleh Meats. Fire pits, cornhole, and a four-season patio make this a year-round gathering spot.
The Baker’s Table is a chef-driven neighborhood restaurant in Newport offering an intimate, thoughtful dining experience rooted in the flavors of the Ohio Valley. The dining room features a monthly-changing six-course tasting menu built around seasonal ingredients, while the bar offers a la carte options for a more casual visit. With just twenty tables each night, carefully balanced portion sizes, and effortless accommodations for vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free guests, the focus stays on comfort, quality, and hospitality.
Cincinnati institution since 1965. Eddie Sheppard became owner after starting as bartender/manager in 1968, developing the charm of an old-world cafe. Hidden gem—narrow passageway leads to a sprawling brick courtyard with fire pit. Underground tavern filled with Tiffany lamps, copper, vintage memorabilia, model planes, and signed photographs. Live music six nights a week showcasing Cincinnati's local scene. Craft cocktails, local beers, extensive whiskey selection. Named for blues legend Blind Lemon Jefferson. No food—order from Mt. Adams Bar & Grill next door.
Rooted in Argentine heritage, this chef-driven restaurant brings Latin American and Italian influences together in a way that feels both distinctive and approachable. The menu blends fresh local ingredients with carefully selected imports, creating bold, satisfying flavors that reflect both tradition and craft. Each dish carries a sense of intention and generosity, offering something Cincinnati hasn’t historically seen done quite this way. The experience feels warm, confident, and grounded in culture rather than trend. Voted by City Beat one of the best steakhouses in Cincinnati.
Neighborhood bar and restaurant in beautiful historic building steps from the Ohio River, across from Lawrenceburg Event Center. Locally inspired menu with BBQ, sandwiches, and chicken salad, paired with rotating craft beer selection and signature cocktails. Spacious, relaxed atmosphere perfect for pre-concert drinks, riverfront walks, or date night. Drink specials including $2 beers. Karaoke too (call to verify what nights).
The Teetzen family moved from Lebanon to Middletown to open their dream business—a coffee and crepe shop inspired by a café they fell in love with during a trip to Germany. They converted a former Realtor office into this cozy, charming space where the family lives upstairs and Cassidy runs an art studio in the basement.
A classic American brasserie at Fountain Square honoring the Tyler Davidson fountain across the street. The menu blends French, Italian, and American influences with handmade pastas, crudo selections, and entrees like steak frites and scallops grenobloise. The elegant dining room overlooking downtown offers an upscale yet approachable atmosphere. Semi-private patio spaces face Fountain Square with climate-controlled seating. Happy hour at the bar features discounted wines, beer, cocktails, and small plates.
Southern comfort food restaurant and beer hall from Thunderdome Restaurant Group specializing in antibiotic-free all-natural fried chicken. Chicken brined in-house, dredged, and dropped into custom-built fryers served with house-made hot honey. Classic Southern sides include five-cheese mac and cheese, spoonbread with maple butter, sweet potato crock with toasted marshmallows, collard greens, white cheddar grits with pickled peppers, and horseradish mashed potatoes. Full menu features fried chicken sandwiches, blackened shrimp po' boys, and Carolina braised pork alongside snacks like jalapeño cheddar hush puppies and spicy chicken dip. Sixteen taps pouring local, craft, and domestic beers plus 100 bottle and can selections. Warm rustic interior with Blues playing in background.
Classic dive bar with garage doors opening to a spacious patio, live music on weekends, pool table in back, karaoke nights that get lively. Known for smoked pork quesadilla, skillet corn, and best wings in town. Where everybody knows your name.
Fine dining restaurant in downtown New Albany serving contemporary American cuisine with globally-influenced small plates and tapas. Open Wednesday through Sunday for dinner, The Fair offers a warm and inviting atmosphere focused on crafting memorable dining experiences with expertly prepared dishes.
An industrial-chic Highlands bistro opened in November 2016 by Chef Dallas McGarity and his wife Laura. McGarity, a Johnson & Wales-trained chef from South Carolina, won Food Network's "Chopped" and was named a 2024 James Beard Award semifinalist. The seasonal menu blends Mediterranean and Southern influences using locally sourced Kentucky ingredients—signature dishes include the roasted rack of lamb, whipped feta, and the double smash burger. A curated bourbon list, craft cocktails, and a warm neighborhood atmosphere round out the experience. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
Anchored in historic downtown Lebanon, this iconic inn and restaurant traces its roots back to 1803, making it Ohio's oldest continuously operating business and a destination for both locals and travelers alike. The dining experience blends classic American fare with a sense of heritage, served in spaces that reflect centuries of hospitality and stories from U.S. presidents, authors, and other notable guests. Menu offerings span handcrafted starters, hearty entrées, and traditional desserts, all framed by the charm of antique architecture and warm, professional service that honors both tradition and the present.
Modern diner from brothers Paul and Neil Barraco, nestled among Milford's historic Main Street buildings. Named for John M. Pattison, Ohio's 43rd governor whose Victorian mansion Promont is a local landmark. All-day breakfast features creative "fromelettes" (frittata-omelet hybrids), signature dishes like the Governor Tso's chicken sandwich and smoked lamb French dip. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Full bar with imaginative cocktail menu. Dual garage-door facade opens to outdoor seating.
Upscale, yet approachable. The Green Line Kitchen & Cocktails serves upscale American cuisine with creative appetizers, prime rib, fresh seafood, and handmade pastas in a beautifully repurposed Fort Thomas bank building. This OpenTable 2024 Diners' Choice winner from Cafeo Hospitality Group combines inventive cocktails, seasonal dishes, and a warm neighborhood atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
One of the oldest hamburger drive-ins in the country, founded 1932 by Bert and Alice Lawler, celebrating 93 years in 2025. Current owner Donnie Osborne purchased April 2018 and grew up blocks away, also owns Shaddock's Pizza in Middletown. Classic carhop service with orders taken at car window or picnic tables. Famous for burgers covered with chili sauce, onions, and pickles; frosted-mug root beer; and soft-serve ice cream. Kenny Steele has been a carhop here for 40+ years and is considered as much a staple as the burgers themselves. Former owner Dick Henderson (30 years) stopped by after Osborne took over and helped tweak the recipe back to the glory days.
Soul food destination in the Roselawn area serving Southern-inspired comfort cuisine with a club-like atmosphere. The menu showcases made-from-scratch dishes like salmon with collard greens, candied yams, mac and cheese, and signature wings with hot honey sauce. Full bar with specialty cocktails including the popular "Liquid Marijuana." R&B music sets the vibe in this grown-and-sexy pregame lounge that doubles as event space for birthday parties and gatherings. Pool tables and casual hangout atmosphere make it a neighborhood gathering spot. Generous portions at reasonable prices keep locals coming back.
A Fort Thomas landmark in a building that's been standing for over 90 years, Midway Cafe was taken over in 2015 by two lifelong friends — Dave and Matt, along with their wives Staci and Erika — who kept the bones of the place and rebuilt everything else. The smoked wings are the reason most people show up, and the Cajun dry rub is the move. WLWT named them best wings in the region in 2018 and the reputation has only grown since. The bourbon selection is the other half of the story — an extensive, carefully curated lineup that caught the attention of bourbon groups across NKY. As Erika Kraus once put it, when new customers walk in for the food and spot the bourbon wall, it's usually an "oh my goodness" moment. Outdoor patio. Live music. Full menu beyond wings.
A neighborhood fixture for 35+ years at the corner of Wasson and Drake. Sold in 2019, massively renovated with new scratch kitchen, open-concept bar, and large outdoor seating. "ReEstablished" to serve Oakley, Hyde Park, and Norwood. Nashville Hot Chicken and Sloppy Joe are must-haves. Great apps and salads. Buckets of beer—cheapest around. Heated patio with firepit. TVs for the games. Cigar-friendly. Brunch weekends. Perfect for family dinner, date night, happy hour, or late nights. Central location accessible by foot, car, or bike (Wasson Way trail nearby).
Founder April Koenig opened this "neighborhood social house" in 2021 with a vision for a sophisticated gathering spot where neighbors could fall in love, close deals, or simply grab a bottle of wine to go. Executive Chef Arthur Kurtzman brings years of fine-dining training to Modern French cuisine with playful twists—think show-stopping Japanese and French omelets at brunch and tapas-style shareables at dinner with curated charcuterie boards. Deeper Roots coffee anchors the morning menu; Sixteen Bricks provides the bread. The shelves hold 150+ artisanal wines available by the glass or to take home, and a wine club keeps regulars stocked with interesting pours.
A Dayton institution since 1947, this legendary steakhouse has earned recognition from Food Network (#2 steakhouse in America), The New York Times ("10 of the World's Greatest Old Dining Institutions"), and Gourmet magazine. The original pine paneling and bar remain largely unchanged since 1954. Steaks are cut, aged, and prepared in-house with an emphasis on quality. The signature house salad dressing has achieved cult status. No reservations, no credit cards, no dessert—just exceptional steaks and timeless ambiance.
One of OTR's genuine neighborhood bars, tucked into Main Street with a layout that does exactly what it should — booths along one wall, a handsome bar built from salvaged Kentucky doors and a reclaimed mantelpiece along the other. The menu is tight and intentional: burgers, wings, beef on weck, a Friday fish fry done in Modelo Negra beer batter, and hand-cut fries. Honey mustard wings and habanero garlic wings have developed their own following. A Buffalo Bills stronghold with a relaxed regulars crowd and no pretense. The kind of bar OTR doesn't make enough of anymore.
Laura and Nash Neely converted an old VFW post shotgun house into one of Louisville's most beloved pizza joints, opening in 2015. Nash left banking to pursue his pizza obsession, and Food Network named it the best slice in Kentucky. Massive New York-style slices, specialty pies up to 20 inches, hoagie sandwiches, calzones, and a full bar with 15+ craft drafts. The Germantown original retains the VFW's 48-star American flag and wing-and-star logo. A second location opened on Bardstown Road in Deer Park ~2023.
Jeff Ruby's original steakhouse and Cincinnati's longest continuously-running fine dining restaurant since opening in 1981 inside the old Cincinnati Police Patrol House No. 6. The birthplace of The Jeff Ruby Experience where the vision for luxury steakhouse dining came to life over four decades ago. Timeless menu features perfectly dry-aged USDA Prime steaks, rare Wagyu beef selections, and the legendary macaroni and cheese named by Food Network as one of its Most Magnificent Sides. Classic upscale atmosphere delivers intimate fine dining where impeccable service and attention to detail create memories alongside exceptional cuisine. The restaurant where Jeff Ruby's passion for Cincinnati hospitality began and continues to thrive. Private dining and Ruby Wine Vault experiences available.
Cheviot-grown owners with deep west side roots, open since 2008 under the Black Sheep Pub name before a full renovation in 2012. The menu is built around the neighborhood's German-Irish heritage — gourmet scratch pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and wings that show up consistently in west side conversations. Fifteen tap handles featuring Cincinnati's best local brews, and the only bar in Cincinnati officially certified to pour a perfect pint of Guinness — staff were flown to the Guinness Brewery in Dublin to earn it. Seven thousand square feet with a dining room, party room, and large outdoor patio. Live acoustic music on weekends, trivia nights weekly.
Dr. Donald and Phyllis Miller—he a family physician, she an architect, both Ohio State grads who met after WWII—saved this 1864 Civil War-era schoolhouse from demolition in 1961 and converted it to a restaurant in 1962. Now proudly owned and operated by their four children: Chris, Jeff, Pam, and Beth. The original two-story brick schoolhouse (one of the first in the Midwest) serves family-style comfort food on lazy susans in the original classroom—menu written on the actual blackboard. Fried chicken, roast beef, country fried steak, meatloaf, and baked cod come with fresh salads, mashed potatoes, green beans, and sweet cornbread. Walk the grounds, visit the General Store, and hang out with the goats and geese. Over 60 years of making family memories.
A community food hall and beer garden built around historic 1920s grain silos near 2nd Street Market. Three Dayton residents—Wes Hartshorn, Shannon Thomas, and Scott Johnson—purchased the 1.47-acre property in 2022 and spent $2.73 million transforming it into a gathering space with four locally-owned food vendors operating from repurposed shipping containers: Nood Bar (Asian-inspired noodles and bao buns from Chef Dane Shipp of Culture), The Burger Bistro by Cece's Kitchen, KungFu BBQ, and Indigo (gluten-free, plant-forward). Centralized bar with 16 taps, full liquor, and one of only three feather bowling courts in the country.
Opened January 2019 by Middletown native John Langhorne, named after his great-grandfather John Swire Langhorne—a northern Englishman who fell in love with a woman headed to America. Historic building constructed in 1864, served as doctor's office, boarding house, political headquarters, and more. World traveler Langhorne renovated the run-down interior with brick and reclaimed wood to evoke a cozy English pub. Head Chef Corey Estes creates rotating specials based on guest feedback including the Ugly Donut Burger featuring glazed donut from longtime Middletown institution Central Pastry Shop. General Manager Shelbi Hamilton started six years ago as part-time server. Live music on patio in warmer months, inside during cooler weather.
Brothers Tom and Mark Kunkemoeller saved this neon-lit Linwood institution in January 2019, dropping 'Terry's' from the name but keeping what made it a Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives destination. Tom left a 20-year career as GM at Montgomery Inn Boathouse to preserve the quirky burger joint's legacy. Build-your-own creations range from classic to outrageous—filet mignon patties, four-cheese sauce, foie gras if you're feeling fancy. The space glows with vintage neon and '70s/'80s nostalgia. House-made sauces and craft beers on tap.
An eclectic European bistro-pub housed in Anchorage's historic train station, opened in 2010 by Louisville native Kevin Grangier. The 260-seat space blends Parisian flair with English pub warmth — stone, red leather, wrought iron, and the original crimson beer taps from Churchill Downs' Silks Bar. Creative comfort food ranges from the famous Candied Anchor Bacon and sweet potato fries with bourbon-marshmallow crème to filet mignon and goat cheese salads. The lower-level Sea Hag Pub features a 30-foot copper bar with built-in ice troughs, 50+ bourbons, and 60+ beers.
Family-owned restaurant in historic 1891 building featuring Executive Chef-driven cuisine with Indiana's only in-house dry-aged steaks in state-of-the-art coolers. Sakura Farms American Wagyu beef and locally-sourced ingredients crafted with meticulous care. Main dining room seats 60 with exposed stone walls, rich colors, soft lighting, and vintage photographs celebrating Aurora's heritage. Committed to community, creating meals meant to be the best you've ever eaten in an atmosphere perfect for friends and family to savor together.
New American cuisine in a lovingly restored mid-century modern building—the historic Parkmoor Drive-In, which won architectural awards when built by Rollin L. Rosser in the 1950s. The Idea Collective (owners of Sueño, Tender Mercy, and Dōzo downtown) purchased the former Carmel's Southwest space and opened Three Birds in June 2025. Chef Jorge Guzman (3-time James Beard finalist) oversees a menu of elevated comfort food: smash burgers (an homage to co-owner David Kittredge's Oklahoma roots), rotisserie chicken, corn dog shrimp, cacio e pepe, and steak frites. The 85-seat interior opens to a 90-seat patio anchored by "Lucille," a celebration maple named after Lucille Ball.
Housed in an 1883 historic brick home in Bellevue's charming Fairfield Avenue district, this B-Line bourbon stop features 100+ bourbons and ryes, 60+ craft beers, and specialty cocktails like the signature Funken Old Fashioned with a coal black king cube. The "posh-but-not-pretentious" tavern serves light fare including flatbreads, the local favorite Hanky Panky, and Buffalo chicken dip until 20 minutes before closing. Enjoy Wine Down Wednesdays, outdoor seating with yard games in the dog-friendly side yard, or grab an official BED cup for Bellevue's designated outdoor refreshment area.
Founded 2015 by Sarah Cole, a Fort Thomas native whose life was tragically cut short in 2016. Former employees Lea Dickman and Raymond Bowman purchased the business to honor her legacy and have expanded it since. Rock 'n' roll-themed burger joint where every item pays tribute to music legends—Meatallica, Buns 'N Roses, Nom Petty, Goetta Van Fleet, Breadzeppelin. Organic grass-fed beef from local Ohio farms, handmade veggie and vegan burgers, plus organic milkshakes (try the Oreo Speedwagon or Flan Halen). Tables decorated with band photos. Dickman also operates Sarelli's Catering.
Where 'classy is a state of mind' in Germantown. Smash burgers have gone viral—TikTok-famous, perfectly caramelized with soft buns, juicy patties, and those iconic pickles. Fries dusted with 'magic dust' seasoning so good you skip the ketchup. Vegan burger and vegan fish & chips options. Industrial-chic vibe with outdoor picnic tables. A neighborhood hangout that takes its craft seriously while keeping things unpretentious.
Old-school sandwich shop and neighborhood market from husband-and-wife team Kathleen Roll and Justin Simmons, both Dayton natives who met at Wright State. After 25+ years combined in hospitality (including stints in Cincinnati, New York, and Chicago), they returned home in 2022 when COVID derailed plans to open a bar in Chicago. Named after their sandwich-loving fathers—Tony (Simmons's dad) and Pete (Roll's dad)—the shop serves quality cold cuts on fresh bread with curated grocery goods, beer, and wine.
Upscale steakhouse established 2010 by chef Tony Ricci combining classic American steakhouse tradition with modern culinary innovation. USDA Prime steaks hand-cut in-house and prepared with proprietary seasoning blend of paprika, sea salts, and peppers creating deep char while sealing in juices. Menu showcases aged all-natural American beef alongside freshest daily seafood, raw bar featuring blue point oysters and Alaskan king crab, plus creative contemporary fare. Extensive thoughtfully-curated wine list pairs perfectly with exceptional cuisine. Casual-elegant atmosphere features warm lighting, open kitchen feel, energetic dining room ideal for special occasions and celebrations. Award-winning service provides memorable fine dining experience.
Family-owned concept blending authentic Mexican kitchen traditions with hand-cut Angus steaks, opened in Florence in 2020. Handcrafted dishes pair with a premier tequila selection in a stylish yet family-friendly atmosphere that relocated Californians say reminds them of authentic Mexican steakhouses. Tacos al pastor arrive on corn tortillas without the Tex-Mex additions, while hand-cut steaks get fire-grilled after seasoning with house-blend rub. Manager Chuy and the team treat regulars like family, whether you're grabbing fajitas Jalisco on the patio or settling in for dinner with the extensive beer and wine selection.
A Cincinnati favorite since 1988—over 35 years of consistent quality in an ever-changing Kenwood landscape. Proprietor Gregg Pancero, co-owner Jon Zipperstein, and Executive Chef Chase Blower lead a team devoted to relationships and reliability. As Pancero puts it: "Making sure your soup is hot, your salad is crisp, and your seafood is fresh." The menu spans fresh seafood daily, great steaks, California-style flatbread pizzas, and creative pasta dishes. An extensive wine list (30+ by the glass) has earned Cincinnati Magazine's "Best Wine List" honors. The veranda dining is a spring-through-fall favorite. Private rooms accommodate 24–70 guests.
Tuba Baking Co. serves authentic Southern German scratch-made cuisine from a tiny mom and pop spot in Dayton, featuring sourdough pretzels made with a 13-year-old rye starter, house-made spätzle, Flammkuchen, and The Swabinatian—a vegetarian German 3-way with Cincinnati-spiced lentils. Chef Drew Rath brings real-deal German flavors to a cozy gastropub with curated German beers, an outdoor Biergarten, and dishes like Schnitzel and Kirschenmichel cherry bread pudding that keep this hidden gem ranked #1 in Dayton. Walk-ins only—call ahead to check availability.
Tulum is a lively Mexican restaurant in Bellevue, Kentucky, known for its flavorful regional dishes like birria and steak tacos served in a warm, tropical-inspired setting. Diners praise the fresh, authentic menu and welcoming atmosphere that blends relaxed indoor dining with a comfortable outdoor vibe.
Founded in 2015 by lifelong friends Sean Spurlock and Zach Greves, who were 22 years old when they turned a college-break pizza obsession into a restaurant. The concept bridges Chicago deep dish and New York thin crust under one roof — both styles made from scratch with care. The building is the former Art Deco Mason City Hall, adding real architectural character to the experience. A craft beer selection and creative specialty pies complement both styles. Named "Best Pizza in Cincinnati" by Cincinnati Magazine in 2017. Waitlist available via their website.
Beth White and her son Matthew converted an old log cabin (formerly "Country Junction" pizza) in July 2011, opening as "A Better Place for BBQ." In 2013 they renamed it to honor Beth's niece Shayna, who was killed in a car accident years earlier—she'd always jokingly called her aunt "Uncle Beth." Now this family operation sits at a rural four-way stop, only open three days a week, no advertising, yet lines stretch out the door. Everything scratch-made: Texas-style brisket you can cut with a plastic knife, pulled pork, collard greens, sweet potato casserole, and the famous mac and cheese (recipe from Matthew's girlfriend's aunt). Signature sauces include blackberry BBQ, Bourbon, and hard-to-find Alabama white sauce. Jalapeño cornbread pudding is a must. Honda plant workers from Marysville are regulars. Snowmobiles, Jaguars, and tractors all pull up to this rustic cabin.
Authentic Italian espresso lounge, aperitivo bar, cafe, bakery, and import store from Andrea Stefano and Melissa De Giorgi, originally from Puglia, Italy. Named after family bakery "Vigne Vecchie" (the old vineyard) established by grandfather Erminio Stefano in 1940s Casamassella. Menu features panzerotti, sfogliatelle, cornetto, Lucia Salad (prosciutto di Parma, melon, artichokes, parmigiano reggiano, dried figs, balsamic), Rigatoni VV (pistachio pesto, crispy guanciale, stracciatella), and house-made chitarra pasta. Signature Espressino Freddo (chilled espresso with cold mousse). Full panini selection, Italian pastries, authentic desserts including pistachio cheesecake and cannoli. Italian import store with curated wines and specialty groceries.
Nicola's "little sister," opened by Cristian Pietoso and his father Nicola in 2007 when Fountain Square was rebuilt. Cristian's first restaurant, reflecting his approach to simple, wholesome, authentic Italian food. Contemporary Italian with handmade pasta, wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas, seafood, steak, and game. Menu crafted using fresh local and imported Italian ingredients. Signature dishes: Tagliatelle Bolognese, Mama's Eggplant Parmigiana, Lumache alla Vodka, crispy gnocchi with four-cheese fonduta and truffle. Wine list features nearly 200 labels. Recently renovated with expanded outdoor dining, plush upstairs seating, and an expanded pasta station where guests can watch fresh pasta sheeted and cut by hand. Live music nightly. Chef's Table experience available beside the pasta station window. Multiple private event spaces for rehearsal dinners, weddings, and business meetings.
A South End institution in Iroquois Manor Shopping Center serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine with generous portions and spice levels you control. The pho is considered among the best in Louisville—clean, flavorful broth that converts even skeptics. The extensive menu includes bánh cuốn, bún bò huế, curry dishes, and vegetarian options. Family-owned and operated, consistently packed with devoted regulars. Neighborhood Favorite across 27 Louisville neighborhoods per Nextdoor.
Brothers Vincenzo and Agostino Gabriele have served authentic Northern Italian cuisine in this stunning 1860 former bank building since 1986. Ranked #22 Best Restaurant in America by Yahoo Cuisine and Best Italian Restaurant in Kentucky by The Daily Meal. The elegant downtown space features tableside food preparation, flaming specialty desserts, and a wine cellar housed in the original bank vault. Chef Agostino imports San Daniele prosciutto, Parmigiano Reggiano, and De Cecco pasta directly from Italy.
Founded 2024 by Michelle Nguyen, who relocated to Cincinnati from Rhode Island in 2020 after two decades in corporate finance. Her passion for wine culture was ignited during her college years in Paris, where she discovered wine's central role in French life. Over 400 wines curated by David Schildknecht, a Mt. Lookout resident and internationally renowned wine critic who writes for Wine & Spirits and previously contributed to Robert Parker's Wine Advocate. Tasting bar shares space with Lookout Joe Coffee Shop. Bottle shop down the hall; no corkage fee if you purchase there. Cincinnati Wine Academy upstairs offers classes from two-hour tastings to multi-session courses.
Family-owned and operated upscale casual bistro owned by Chef Vitor and wife Heather Abreu, blending modern flair with artistic precision at corner of Jamison and Stateline Roads. Award-winning Chef Vitor named "Best Chef" by Cincy Magazine 2019, with Cincinnati Small Business Excellence Awards 2019 and 2020. International infusion cuisine featuring signature sushi rolls (Bang Bang Shrimp, Fire Tuna, Chef Vitor's Malibu Roll, Crazy Shrimp & Lobster), New American dishes, ribeye steaks, beef medallions, goat cheese bake, and rotating Special Features menu every 4-5 weeks. Chef's Table offers personalized 5-course meals. Full bar with craft beer, boutique wine, and expansive bourbon selections. Dog-friendly covered patio, warm lighting, cozy seating. Originally started as food truck, moved from Cheviot, Ohio to Bright 2017.
Family and minority owned Mexican restaurant that opened in early 2022 and quickly became a Troy staple. Mix of Tex-Mex and regional Mexican influences from Guadalajara, Michoacán, and Guanajuato. House-made salsas and queso prepared fresh every morning. 100 seats with spacious dining room, private party room, outdoor patio, and full bar. Known for consistency in service, cleanliness, and food quality.
Louisville's premier fine-dining Italian, open since August 2004 on Frankfort Avenue. Managing Partners: Executive Chef Joshua Moore and GM Jonathan Tarullo. Moore started as a pastry assistant at Vincenzo's at 14 and has since cooked at the James Beard House, served Muhammad Ali and Robert DeNiro, and grows produce on his own 10-acre farm to supply the restaurant. Voted Best Italian by Louisville Magazine three consecutive years (2017–2019). Just named to USA Today's 2026 Restaurants of the Year list. White-linen atmosphere with live music Wed–Sat in the bar. Complimentary valet parking.
Dayton's largest craft brewery, founded in 2014 by Nick Bowman (Centerville native, former Anheuser-Busch sales/marketing) and brewmaster John Haggerty (decade at New Holland Brewing in Michigan, 25+ years brewing experience, trained in Germany). The name pays homage to the Wright Brothers' wing-warping technology that enabled controlled flight. The downtown taproom occupies the 1938 Buckeye Brass & Iron Foundry—the original 10-ton industrial crane still arches overhead. Beer names celebrate Dayton history: Ermal's Belgian Cream Ale (honoring pull-tab can inventor Ermal Fraze), Trotwood Lager (Trotwood Trailers), 10 Ton Oatmeal Stout. Products distributed across central and southwestern Ohio.
Warped Wing's Huber Heights Barrel Room & Smokery location featuring craft beer and house-smoked American BBQ. Part of Dayton's largest craft brewery founded in 2014, combining quality craft beer with BBQ dining experience.
Warped Wing's Mason Barrel Room & Smokery location featuring craft beer and house-smoked American BBQ. Part of Dayton's largest craft brewery founded in 2014, combining quality craft beer with BBQ dining experience.
Warped Wing's Springboro Barrel Room & Smokery location featuring craft beer and house-smoked American BBQ. Part of Dayton's largest craft brewery founded in 2014, combining quality craft beer with BBQ dining experience.
Washington Square Cafe serves fresh, locally-sourced American comfort food in the historic 1800s Joseph Graves House in downtown Burlington, featuring half-pound cooked-to-order Angus burgers, the signature Big Fish sandwich, chicken & waffles, and house-smoked pork tenderloin. Winner of Best Patio Dining 2025 and finalist for Best Breakfast/Brunch, this cozy family-owned cafe offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a relaxed atmosphere with an enclosed heated patio featuring live music and TV for sports, plus proximity to the popular Burlington Antique Show.
A Western Hills tradition since 1993, specializing in Chicago-style deep dish and stuffed pizzas built from scratch daily. The building looks like a house from the outside, but inside it's warm, comfortable, and unmistakably a neighborhood restaurant. The stuffed pizza is the signature — layers of dough, fresh ingredients, and house-made sauce baked into something worth the wait. The full menu includes pastas, sandwiches, and salads. Homemade desserts, especially the peanut butter pie, are a local favorite. Draft and bottled beer available. A West Side staple with a loyal following.
California-style pizza and Italian fare from co-owners Liz Valenti and Elizabeth "Wiley" Wiley, who met at Grinnell College and reunited decades later to open this rustic-chic eatery. The name honors Wiley's mother, who collected coins and always kept a wheat penny for luck. Valenti trained at Tony Gemignani's International School of Pizza in San Francisco; the focaccia uses leftover pizza dough in the traditional Italian method. Mom's marinara recipe anchors the menu. The Taylor Street pizza and eggplant fries are crowd favorites. Exceptional allergy accommodations—gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options abound. James Beard Foundation recognized Wiley in their Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership program.
The original and the one regulars argue is still the best. Wild Mike's has been a westside institution since 1994 and the Delhi location is where loyalists tend to land. Seven sauces, seven heat levels, and a house-made blue cheese that gets its own mentions in every conversation about this place. Mike's Mix — a blend of all the sauces — is the move if you can't decide. Full menu of burgers, sandwiches, and sides.
The Harrison Avenue location sits in the heart of Green Township and is the most visible of the three — which means it gets the most first-timers and the most scrutiny. The wings are the same program: seven sauces, house-made blue cheese, Mike's Mix for the undecided. Cincinnati Magazine covered Wild Mike's specifically for this location. Parking is tight when it's busy, which it usually is. Dine in or carryout.
The Bridgetown Road location pulls from a broad westside base and keeps the Wild Mike's formula intact — big wings, seven sauces, house-made blue cheese that people drive for. The Mike's Mix has a "voodoo magic addiction flavor" according to at least one out-of-towner who made the trip specifically for it. Full menu, dine in or carryout, and the kind of place you stop at on the way home without having to think about it.
A contemporary dining room in the heart of Over-the-Rhine built around seasonal ingredients, thoughtful technique, and a strong sense of place. The menu evolves with the availability of local and regional products, balancing creativity with restraint and letting flavors lead rather than spectacle. With an intimate, modern atmosphere and an emphasis on pacing and detail, the experience feels well suited for intentional dinners, conversation-focused evenings, and meals where the craft behind the food is part of the appeal.
A laid-back sports café overlooking Hidden Valley Lake, this spot serves up classic pub favorites like wings, burgers, and sandwiches in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Guests can enjoy indoor seating or unwind on the outdoor patio while watching the game or taking in lake views. Friendly service and a casual vibe make it an easy choice for lunch, dinner, or drinks with friends.
Owner Susan Hershberg launched Wiltshire as a catering company in 1989 and spent 35 years building it into a culinary powerhouse. The Highlands location is the flagship café — a warm, airy bakery turning out artisan breads, flaky croissants, morning buns, cinnamon rolls, and pastries reviewers compare to Parisian boulangeries. Breakfast and lunch menus feature creative, locally sourced dishes: frittatas, gourmet sandwiches, seasonal salads with hot shrimp, and take-home meals. Downtown location opened 2021, serving similar menu with pre-theater prix fixe dinners. Newest outpost inside MashUp Food Hall specializes in pastries, chocolate confections, and lunch. Hershberg recently partnered with Erika Chavez-Graziano to launch an artisanal chocolate line.
Casual fine dining institution born from a 1977 collective where ten owner-workers grew their own sprouts, made yogurt, and baked bread in a dollar pizza oven. Now co-owned by Mary Kay Smith—who arrived shortly after opening and never left—and chef Roland Eliason. European-inspired cuisine with American influences; menu changes every two months to reflect seasons and decades-long relationships with area farmers.
Family owned and operated by Kim Snider on the west side of Hamilton, Wings on Brookwood has built a following that extends well beyond Butler County. The wings come bone-in or boneless with six house-made sauces and a heat scale that runs from mild to atomic — the atomic crazy garlic BBQ has its own cult following. The house blue cheese gets called out as often as the wings themselves, which is saying something. Cajun curly fries are a must. Small place, limited parking, and it fills up fast — come early or call ahead. Carryout, delivery, and catering available.
Ohio's oldest tavern, built as a log cabin stagecoach stop in 1827. German immigrant Franz Hafner bought and expanded it in 1847; the original hand-hewn log cabin remains visible in the rear. German-American pub fare: sauerkraut balls, currywurst, schnitzels, bratwurst platters, Hofbrau beer-battered fish.
A Main Street anchor in Covington's MainStrasse Village with a menu built around burgers, wings, and a fully stocked bar. The flagship Zola Burger — loaded with bacon, grilled onions, sautéed mushrooms, capicola ham, and American cheese — has earned a loyal following, and the house-made Asian slaw gets called out almost as often as the burgers themselves. Live music runs Wednesday through Saturday, daily happy hour specials keep the patio active, and the kitchen stays open until a reasonable hour. Unpretentious, consistent, and firmly rooted in the neighborhood.
Opened in April 2024 by Northern Kentucky artist Dustin Sims, this one-of-a-kind venue combines a cocktail bar, restaurant, and working art gallery where every piece on the walls is for sale from Sims's personal collection. The visually stunning space features 150-year-old Albee Theatre chairs, bowling alley lane tables, and a restored flight wing table, creating an eclectic atmosphere that changes seasonally with rotating artwork and mirrors. The menu offers elevated bar bites like loaded pulled pork tots, 7-cheese buffalo mac & cheese, pulled chicken sliders, and street tacos alongside handcrafted cocktails including a smoked bacon old fashioned, spicy paloma, and reposado espresso martini.