12 Incredible Restaurants in Cincinnati, OH You Need to Try

Blake Walsh

Sep 17, 2023 • 8 min read

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, Cincinnati boasts a richly diverse food scene with flavors to satisfy every palate.

From high-end steakhouses to hole-in-the-wall chili parlors, the Queen City offers a culinary adventure around every corner.

Join us as we embark on a gastronomic tour of some of Cincinnati's most interesting and remarkable restaurants.

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We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals for their invaluable contributions to this article: Susanne Regan, Jared Foster, Mary Phelps, Gregory Bayliss, Delilah Holmes, Rachel Soto and Lisa Fischer.

Boca

Tucked away in a downtown alley, Boca showcases the sophistication of Northern Italian cuisine paired with an upscale yet relaxed ambiance.

Their Beef Wellington is an edible work of art: puff pastry wrapped around tenderloin, foie gras, and mushrooms. Each savory bite is a carnivorous symphony, melting on your tongue in perfect harmony. An extensive wine list curated by a knowledgeable sommelier provides the ideal complement to Boca's menu.

For a sweet ending, the bite-sized Pomme Soufflés are a must, with a deliciously crispy exterior giving way to a fluffy, cloud-like interior.

Dining at Boca is a memorable experience engaging all the senses, making it the perfect choice for celebrating special occasions.

Sotto

Offering a rustic Italian escape in the heart of the city, Sotto's invitingly austere interior features exposed brick walls and candlelit tables setting the mood for a romantic evening.

The small but innovative menu journeys through Italian cuisine with plates meant for sharing. Fresh salads, bruschetta, and roasted vegetable antipasti lead into hearty pastas and mains like the succulent braised short rib served atop creamy polenta.

It's the ideal spot for an intimate meal that feels like a vacation to the Old Country.

Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse

Carnivores rejoice at Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse, known for exceptional cuts of meat and seafood in a stylish upscale setting. Situated under a dazzling chandelier, the centerpiece table provides a luxurious place to enjoy signature dishes like the Joey Burrow, a surf and turf pairing filet mignon with a butter-poached lobster tail.

Don't miss Ruby's handcrafted cocktails or the decadent desserts like bourbon pecan pie.

From the complimentary valet parking to the top-notch service, every detail is carefully crafted for an indulgent fine dining experience. For an unforgettable steakhouse affair, make reservations at Jeff Ruby's.

Abigail Street

In Cincinnati's historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, Abigail Street offers a contemporary take on Mediterranean cuisine inspired by the coastal regions of France, Italy, and Spain.

With generous shareable plates, vibrant salads, and hearty main dishes, the menu takes diners on a tour across the Mediterranean.

Vegetarians flock to Abigail Street for meatless fare like the falafel and inventive brussels sprouts. The bourbon cocktail menu adds a uniquely local twist. Abigail Street's charming ambiance and central location make it an ideal spot for trying something new or impressing out-of-town guests.

Mita

Jose Salazar's downtown restaurant Mita's highlights the inspired cuisine of Spain and Latin America.

Named after the chef's grandmother, Mita's features a lively lounge perfect for enjoying tapas like the crowd-pleasing tostones with guacamole. Ceviches showcase the fresh catch of the day seasoned with citrus and spices. Heartier plates include paella brimming with seafood and the Cuban sandwich layered with ham, pork shoulder, and pickles.

Housemade sangria, Spanish wines, and Latin American spirits complement the vibrant menu. The elegantly adorned dining room provides a polished yet warm backdrop for group dinners or a romantic date night.

Nicola's

Family-owned Nicola's offers contemporary Italian cuisine in an intimate setting. Exposed brick walls lined with wine bottles set the scene for a neighborhood trattoria vibe.

Start with shareable antipasti before moving into hearty pastas, specialty pizzas, and mains featuring premium cuts like the bone-in ribeye. Gluten-free diners will appreciate the many pasta and pizza options catering to dietary needs.

While dishes lean towards classic Italian, specials showcase the chef's seasonal inspirations. Staff go above and beyond with personalized service, making Nicola's a reliable choice for marking special occasions or simply enjoying a high-quality Italian meal.

Goose & Elder

Situated across from Findlay Market, Goose & Elder supplies weekend crowds with inventive brunch plates and Southern-inspired cocktails. The monster breakfast platter piles eggs, potatoes, bacon, and Texas toast high to fuel hungry market-goers. Can't decide between pancakes and French toast?

Their Monte Cristo offers the best of both between thick-cut sourdough bread. Wash it down with a refreshing elderberry margarita.

Inside, scuffed wood floors and worn tables create a casual atmosphere, while the patio captures lively market views. Despite the no-reservations policy, the staff's upbeat energy makes the wait for a table fly by. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely weekend brunch with friends.

Salazar

Chef Jose Salazar's namesake restaurant Salazar provides a contemporary take on Latin flavors for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Chilaquiles made with house-fried tortilla chips can be ordered any time of day.

Garlicky papas, the restaurant's unique take on home fries, pair perfectly with eggs for a satisfying lunch. Made-to-order guacamole and creamy poblano corn soup hit the spot on a chilly day.

For dinner, grilled meats and seafood shine, accompanied by sides like the brussels sprouts with cotija cheese. Salazar offers a taste of Latin America with locally sourced Ohio ingredients, cementing itself as a downtown dining destination.

The Eagle

Looking for down-home Southern cooking north of the Mason Dixon? The Eagle's menu fills that void with regional favorites. Fried chicken glistening with hot honey tops the list of must-tries, along with unexpected surprises like the Granny Smith apple grilled cheese showcasing the chef's creativity.

Sides like mac and cheese, hush puppies, and garlicky fries are made for sharing. Inside, picnic-style tables fill the laid-back beer hall space.

Outside, a sprawling patio provides a sunny spot for day drinking. Young locals flock here for the hearty comfort food, craft beers, and lively atmosphere. It's a taste of Dixie transplanted into Cincinnati's urban core.

Incline Public House

Incline Public House supplies panoramic downtown views along with solid gastropub fare. The menu covers all the classics like juicy burgers and fish tacos.

For a taste of Cincinnati, try the goetta sausage with eggs for brunch or the steak wrap stuffed with LaRosa's Buddy LaRosa pizza sauce. The real showstopper is the vista - the outdoor deck makes an ideal spot to soak in the city below while sipping local draft beers.

Arrive early to snag a coveted patio table. The food may be ordinary pub grub, but the soaring perspective of downtown makes this place extraordinary.

Krueger's Tavern

In the Findlay Market neighborhood, Krueger's Tavern blends trendy and traditional with its gastropub menu. Small plates like the pretzel with beer cheese make great starters.

Heartier options range from burgers to steaks to rotating chef's specials. The rooftop deck provides stellar views of the city skyline and the historic market. Inside, the vibe is moody and romantic, with candlelight and exposed brick walls. Extensive craft beer and cocktail lists cater to different tastes.

Make reservations for dinner to ensure a table, or drop in for a more laid-back lunch. Krueger's manages to feel upscale yet approachable.

21C Museum Hotel

The Metropole at 21C Museum Hotel merges art, history, and inventive cuisine. Dishes are crafted using modern techniques like cooking over a fireplace, sous vide, or on a rotisserie.

The kitchen plays with tastes and textures, combining peaches with goat cheese grits or serving carrots roasted in hay.

Menus shift seasonally to highlight fresh ingredients. Inside the restaurant, original contemporary art installations grace the walls. Friendly staff eagerly share details about both the food and the artwork. Expect an immersive culinary experience where every bite feels uniquely imagined.

Ché

Tucked away in Over-the-Rhine, Ché infuses Argentine flair into Cincinnati's dining scene. Empanadas overflowing with savory beef, tender chicken breast platters, and hearty bean dishes provide a taste of South America.

Brussels sprouts glazed in chimichurri sauce supply a meatless delight. Located in a former church, the dramatic high ceilings add grandeur to the intimate space. Attentive servers eagerly guide diners through the menu, explaining each item's origins.

An extensive South American wine and cocktail list provide the perfect accompaniment. Ché brings international flavor to Cincinnati in a cozy, welcoming setting.

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