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.

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.

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.

Darke County institution since 1934, now in its 90th year under the same family. Famous for Louise's secret recipe steamed loose-meat sandwiches using hindquarters ground on-site—still $2.80. Exterior walls completely covered in chewing gum, a tradition since WWII when soldiers stuck gum here before shipping out.

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.

A Smoketown institution since New Year's Eve 1988, where founder Shirley Mae Beard still cooks in the open kitchen on her Rollator walker. Everything is made to order—hot water cornbread, smoked ribs from sidewalk grills, fried chicken wings, and smothered pork chops. The walls display photos honoring the history of Black jockeys in Kentucky horse racing. Cash only. Come hungry and patient—the cooking takes time because 'it's a waste of time if you don't do it right.'

Named Southern Living's Best Restaurant in Kentucky 2024 and featured on Ebony Magazine's EBONY Eats 45. Owners Adrienne and Chef Kristopher Cole deliver elevated seasonal comfort food with Louisville flair—build-your-own deviled eggs, Challah French toast, hot honey fried chicken biscuits, and lemon ricotta flapjacks. Sourcing from local farms like Berry's Beef, Kenny's Cheese, and Blue Dog Bakery. Full coffee bar with signature lattes plus craft cocktails. Second location opening 2025 in Norton Commons.

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.

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.

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 downtown Cincinnati dining room shaped by the vision of James Beard–nominated chef Jose Salazar and rooted in family heritage. The menu bridges traditional and modern flavors from Spain and Latin America, featuring tapas, ceviches, cured meats, cheeses, and paella designed for sharing or lingering over a full meal. Anchored by an energetic bar and supported by a wine program focused on Spain and the Old World, the space feels equally fitting for a quick stop at the bar or a longer evening centered around the table.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Women-owned winery and restaurant housed in the historic 1900 Baer Building, featuring Floyd County's only winery with wines crafted in the cellar beneath. The ground-level tasting bar and brick oven kitchen serve pizzas, entrees, and charcuterie boards with a patio overlooking Bicentennial Park. Live music on Saturday nights, karaoke on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, plus wine flights and Indiana craft beers available.

Downtown Dayton's oldest bar, dating to 1942, has evolved into a nationally recognized bourbon house with over 800 whiskeys. The original 1862 back bar—salvaged from Cincinnati's Gibson Hotel—anchors a space that feels both historic and refined. Bartenders complete a six-month to one-year apprenticeship focusing on flavor profiles and bourbon history. Esquire named it among America's best bars. The upstairs event space accommodates private tastings and cocktail classes led by owner Joe Head, a Kentucky Colonel and Bourbon Steward.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Westwood outpost of this locally-owned gastropub occupies the historic Junietta Firehouse, bringing the same beloved formula to Cincinnati's west side. Classic American comfort food gets elevated treatment—the signature burgers, crispy tots, and scratch-made dishes pair perfectly with craft cocktails and local brews. The building's character shines through with original architectural details meeting modern bar design. Whether catching a game on the big screens or settling in for weekend brunch, the welcoming vibe makes everyone feel at home.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sisters Carly Bogard and Hannah Wischmeyer built this 'wild and weird' brunch destination from the ground up in September 2021. Self-described 'alien disco vibes' meet serious culinary chops—all bread, bagels, and pastries are baked in-house daily. Local sourcing runs deep: Blue Jacket Dairy cheese curds, Hull's Trace aged cheddar, Indian Creek Creamery milk, and Deeper Roots coffee. The Rise & Swine sandwich (slow-cooked pork, honey mustard aioli, candied jalapeños on house croissant) won the 2nd annual Taste of Bellefontaine. Full coffee bar plus mimosas and the signature Bloody Hell Jenny.

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.

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.

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.

Herb & Thelma’s Tavern has been pouring cold beer and flipping iconic burgers in Covington since 1939. With fresh, locally sourced patties made daily and a tavern atmosphere passed down through generations, it’s a place that feels untouched by trends. This is old-school in all the right ways—simple food, honest prices, and a loyal local crowd. A must-visit for anyone who wants to experience Northern Kentucky the way it used to be.

A beloved neighborhood destination founded in 2004 and helmed by chefs with deep culinary experience. Here, seasonally driven, scratch-made dishes celebrate high-quality ingredients with simple yet imaginative techniques. Menus span refined salads, hearty sandwiches, grilled meats, and fish, reflecting familiar comfort with creative twists. The team's commitment to local sourcing and thoughtful execution has earned community devotion over two decades. Warm service and a welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for both relaxed lunches and memorable dinners.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Restaurant inside one of the largest water-powered grist mills still in existence, built in 1802 by Revolutionary War soldier Owen Davis. The Satariano family purchased the property to preserve this historic treasure—one of fewer than 100 original operating mills remaining in America. Home-cooked meals with fresh whole-grain breads, pies, and cookies baked daily. Breakfast served all day: pancakes, omelets, cornmeal mush, fried potatoes. Lunch until 3pm: sandwiches, salads, homemade soups. Dine to the gentle sounds of the mill wheel and water cascading over falls, with views of Clifton Gorge and the Little Miami River.

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.

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.

A Krimmer family tradition for over 35 years across three Cincinnati-area locations. Dough is baked fresh daily, cheese grated in-house, and sauces prepared from scratch each morning. The menu stretches well beyond pizza into pasta, calzones, sandwiches, and salads — all comfort food priced for families. The dining room is laid-back and familiar, built for regulars who come back week after week. A 'Take & Bake' option lets you finish pies at home. Winner of the 2011 Best of Taste Award of Merit for its lasagna. Flagship location. Delivery available to surrounding neighborhoods.

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.

Anchor Grill is a Covington, Kentucky landmark that's been serving classic Southern comfort food since 1946, pairing hearty portions with a nostalgic 1950s diner vibe that keeps locals and travelers coming back. Known for its burgers, breakfast, and brunch, the diner also offers takeout, delivery, and catering, making it an easy, anytime stop.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Started as a hobby when Brent Dalton began smoking meat for his church after moving back to his hometown of Middletown. People asked him to cater events, so he bought a food truck in 2016. Opened brick-and-mortar restaurant December 2020 during COVID. Full-time family business with wife Kelly and children Brady, Isabel, and Ava working alongside friends from Breiel Boulevard Church of God. Specialties include pulled pork, smoked brisket, baby back ribs (Brent's personal favorite), and "Not Your Nachos" (tortilla chips smothered with smoked meat, na'cho cheese, and homemade pico de gallo). All sides made in house. Also offers soft-serve ice cream. Food truck still available for catering throughout Ohio.

Bouquet is an upscale farm-to-table bistro in Covington with deep relationships to over fifty local farmers, creating a constantly evolving menu of elevated seasonal cuisine like Wagyu meatballs, duck, and Marksbury Farm pork chop alongside an extensive bourbon collection in a relaxed, LGBTQ+-friendly neighborhood setting. The seasonally-inspired menu features house-made charcuterie boards, innovative small plates, fresh salads, and artisan pastries, with four-course tasting menus available for a complete culinary experience.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.'

Serving legendary fried chicken for over 80 years in a building from the early 1830s, The Chicken House is a Southern Indiana institution where fresh, never-frozen chicken is delivered daily. This family-friendly local favorite—once beloved by golf legend Fuzzy Zoeller—has earned Best Chicken honors in both Clark and Floyd Counties, serving generous portions of comfort food classics alongside a lakeside playground.

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.

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.

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.

Housed in a 1910 building that once operated as Sig's general store, this Old North Dayton gem has served homemade Eastern European cuisine since 1990. Founder Elinor Sluzas's original recipes remain in use under current owner Joe Castellano. The vintage tin ceiling, stained glass windows, and Turkish marble bar create old-world charm. The menu spans German, Lithuanian, Polish, Hungarian, Russian, and Italian dishes—try the cabbage rolls, sauerbraten, or potato pancakes. Two private banquet rooms accommodate up to 100 guests.

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.

Born from disaster, beloved for generations. When the Great Flood of 1913 devastated Miamisburg, 27-year-old Sherman 'Cocky' Porter fed refugees with his family's secret-recipe burgers. Demand never stopped. Owner Jack Sperry has preserved the legacy since 2008—same recipe, same cast-iron skillet technique, same Market Square location. Ranked among America's Top 100 burgers by 'Hamburger America' and featured by CNN Travel. Sliders are flash-fried to crispy perfection. Cash only. Porter's slogan still applies: 'Pickle in the middle and onion on top makes your belly go flippity-flop.'

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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+.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Founded 1926 by Zip Kirschner—originally operated as a bookie joint. Celebrating 100 years in 2026. Current owner Mike Burke is the sixth owner; he started working there as a teenager in the 1990s, became manager in 2005, and bought it from Brian Murrie in 2015. Second-oldest business on Mt. Lookout Square. Famous for hand-pattied burgers made with fresh beef from Avril-Bleh & Sons Meat Market downtown, served "deluxe" on Klosterman buns with lettuce, tomato, and onion. Try the Girthburger topped with signature mettwurst—named by former Bengal Pat McInally. Non-Cincinnati-style chili: meat and beans in tomato emulsion with sour cream and cheese. Electric train circles overhead, installed decades ago.

All-day cafe and taqueria in Over-the-Rhine blending Mexico City taquerias with Oaxacan street vendor inspiration since 2019. First Mazunte location offering breakfast tacos, tortas, conchas, and daily cafe de olla alongside lunch staples like Al Pastor tacos and ready-to-go carnitas. Cozy downtown spot serving morning meetings over coffee, busy lunch rushes for local business community, happy hour mezcal and guac, and low-key pre-theater dinners. Catering hub with pickup and delivery. Organically evolving identity rooted in approachable Mexican cuisine.

Bistro featuring hand-crafted entrees alongside world-class charcuterie boards made with cured meats and cheeses from around the world. The menu emphasizes masterfully prepared dishes at affordable prices, paired with custom cocktails and a premier wine selection curated by beverage professionals. Unique, cozy atmosphere with exceptional hospitality and service.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Eaton institution serving Preble County for nearly 50 years. Classic dive bar meets neighborhood grill located just feet from the train tracks. The Mule Burger and Parkview Burger are legendary, but regulars swear by the prime rib and filet mignon served Thursday through Saturday. Fresh foods, handmade sauces and dressings.

A nostalgic carhop drive-in serving the Dayton area since 1961. Trays still hang on car windows while 1950s and 60s music plays overhead. Owner Emily Collins, who purchased the business in 2008 after graduating from Ohio University, has modernized the menu while preserving classics like footlong hot dogs, cheeseburgers, crinkle-cut fries, and house-made root beer served in frosted mugs. Seasonal operation runs approximately February through mid-November. Cash only; ATM available on-site.

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.

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.

A longtime Italian restaurant perched above the city with panoramic views of downtown Cincinnati and the Ohio River, known for its classic Northern Italian fare and warm hospitality. The menu highlights pasta, veal, seafood, and traditional entrées crafted with care alongside an extensive wine list, all served in an elegant yet welcoming dining room. With its striking vista and timeless approach, it’s a memorable choice for date nights, special occasions, and dinners that feel both classic and distinctly Cincinnati.

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.

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.

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.

Opened March 2023 behind Emporium Wines in the former Veganry space. Husband-and-wife team Angie Hsu and Matan Mazursky draw from their Taiwanese and Israeli backgrounds for a borderless menu—falafel, dandan noodles, masala chaat, scallion pancakes, kati rolls. Fully vegan with gluten-free options.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

A Kiss family institution since 1962, this cozy steakhouse near the University of Dayton specializes in BBQ ribs, steaks, and chops. Joe and Irene Kiss became sole owners in 1989, renaming it from "The Old Hickory Bar-B-Q." The restaurant remains family-run, with son-in-law Gary Fisher managing since 1995 and multiple generations working the floor. The signature house BBQ sauce and salad dressing have remained unchanged for decades. A compact, vintage dining room maintains its 1970s character.

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 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.

Ranked #1 on Tripadvisor among Florence restaurants, Mai Thai has earned its reputation through consistent execution of authentic Thai cuisine and fresh sushi since the mid-2000s. The master chef with over a decade of experience crafts generous portions from fresh ingredients, delivering everything from fiery curries to crowd-favorite Pad Thai with customizable spice levels. Attentive service and reasonable prices keep this cozy spot packed with regulars who've made it their go-to for both quick takeout and relaxed dining with family and friends.

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.