Zip's Cafe

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.