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Exploring the Best Restaurants in Cincinnati

Exploring the best cincinnati in restaurants

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The Cincinnati region’s food scene is known for its chili, southern comfort food, beer, and bourbon, but there’s so much more to look forward to.

The Queen City boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary experience, being home to some of the best dining spots in the Midwest. From iconic steakhouses and ethnic favorites to lavish fine dining, there are tons of options to explore.

If you’re planning a visit to the region, here are some of the best Cincinnati restaurants you must include in your itinerary.

Exploring Cincinnati's Culinary Diversity

Cincy promises an exciting gastronomic adventure with its iconic steakhouse, culinary innovations, and hidden gems.

a plate of steak and potato in best cincinnati in restaurants

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Iconic Dining Destinations

Ask the locals where you can good steak and the answer you’ll most likely get is Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse. This iconic spot is also a great option if you’re looking for romantic restaurants in Cincinnati.

Must-Try:

  1. Steak Collinsworth – 8oz filet, king crab, asparagus, bordelaise, and béarnaise.
  2. The Ocho Cinco – 6oz filet, creole crawfish sauce, and 6oz lobster tail.
  3. Dover Sole – Lemon beurre blanc, capers, and toasted garlic.

Reviews:

“If I could give this place 10 STARS…. I would! An EXPERIENCE like none other! From the moment you walk in the door, use the restroom, eat, visit the Cigar Bar to leaving is totally indescribable! We expected the best, but we got BETTER THAN THE BEST! The food was great and the drinks were amazing, the staff was amazing! And the Managers were more foot soldiers than the staff, speaking, helping patrons, talking, making drinks, cooking, seating tables. Never seen anything like this before and I’ve seen a lot! It will definitely be my go to place when I come back to Cincinnati. You miss this while here, you are definitely missing what will make your trip extra special. Prices are worth it! By the way the waiter Dom is who you want, BE sure to tell Charlie, that Flowers sent you! He has a treat for you!”
– Flowers Strickland

Restaurant Information:

a bowl of meat and vegetables in best cincinnati in restaurants

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Culinary Innovations

Located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, Lalo Chino Latino Kitchen is known for its innovation in Latino and Asian fusion cuisine.

The Chino Latino-inspired fare from Lalo’s menu is a delightful blend of family recipes, culinary creativity, and inspiration from passion. This dining gem is a place worth visiting, as it offers a fresh take on familiar dishes.

Must-Try:

  1. Mexi Bibimbap – Kimchi, black beans, corn, pickle carrots, pickled cabbage, cucumber, kale, pico de gallo, peppers, onions, and a sunny-side-up egg, tomato rice. Served in a hot clay bowl with a side of hot rojo salsa.
  2. Mongolian Fajita Plate – Peppers, onions, mushrooms, and zucchini in Mongolian sauce. Served on a hot plate with sides of black beans, white rice, and corn tortillas.
  3. Mofongo – Caribbean-style mashed plantain with a hint of garlic butter, spicy mayo, and a side of house salad.

Reviews:

“So we stumbled upon this place while searching for local Latin American Mexican cuisine in Cincinnati to cater to our wedding. First off, the host and waitress (Tj and Jayla) gave us some of the most personal, exceptional service we have ever had. The food was absolutely amazing! We mainly stuck to their traditional tacos but also loved the asian inspired tacos as well. Also loved the dip platter, their queso blanco is probably the best I have had in Cincinnati. Would definitely recommend this lesser known joint for a relaxed date night.”
– Kaitlyn B

Restaurant Information:

a bowl of shrimps in best cincinnati in restaurants

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Hidden Gems

Located less than five miles from downtown Cincinnati, Conserva may be one of Greater Cincinnati’s best hidden gems.

The owner and head chef of this must-visit tapas restaurant, Challis Hodge, studied Spanish tapa cuisine to offer an authentic experience in a welcoming and cozy environment.

Must-Try:

  1. Ventresca de Atún Claro en Aceite de Oliva – Yellowfin tuna belly in olive oil.
  2. Sardinillas Guisadas – Small sardines in red sauce.
  3. Mejillones en Salsa Brava – Mussels and sweet kombu in salsa brava.

Reviews:

“Such a hidden gem! So grateful that we discovered Conserva before it becomes impossible to get a reservation! (Which will be VERY soon!) The service was wonderfully personable (the owner is a five-star hostess), the ambience is warm and welcoming, and the food rivals any Michelin-starred restaurant in the Cincinnati area! So excited to welcome this new culinary gem to our area!”
– Alyce Vilines

Restaurant Information:

A Taste of Cincinnati's Cultural Tapestry

These restaurants will take you out of Cincinnati and give you a taste of the local cuisines from California and all the way to Cuba!

best cincinnati in restaurants with a bowl of vegetable salad

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Farm-to-Table Delights

Maplewood Kitchen and Bar is one of the local favorites among downtown Cincinnati restaurants. Patrons love to enjoy gourmet food inside the bright, airy space surrounded by contemporary décor.

The café has a casual yet sophisticated menu that channels SoCal. All the food served here are made from locally sourced, fresh ingredients.

Must-Try:

  1. Mediterranean Bowl – Tri-colored quinoa and brown rice blend, hummus, lavash chips, tomato, feta, cucumber, mixed greens, crispy chickpeas, and yogurt Dijon sauce.
  2. Maplewood Burger – Ground chuck, short rib, and tenderloin, white cheddar, house pickle, green leaf, grilled tomato, roasted garlic aioli, and 16 Bricks sesame bun.
  3. Lemon Ricotta Pancakes – Fresh seasonal fruit, berry compote, and Ohio maple syrup.

Reviews:

“This is our second time we have ate at while visiting Cincinnati. They have Amazing brunch! We both enjoyed an awesome branch. Everything was really good.”
– Poe Run

Restaurant Information:

a bowl of vegetable and black rice best cincinnati in restaurants

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Ethnic Enclaves

Prepare to be taken to a lush, tropical destination as you dine at Amador, one of the best Cincinnati riverfront restaurants. This spot is known for its delicious Cuban food and stunning views from the outdoor patio that overlooks the Ohio River and Cincinnati Skyline.

Immerse yourself in Cuban culture through meticulously curated cuisine, hand-crafted cocktails, and delightful coffee and desserts.

Must-Try:

  1. Lechon Asado – Slow-roasted pork marinated in mojo. Served with chicharrónes, pickled vegetables, sweet plantains, white rice, and black beans.
  2. Churrasco – Grilled flank steak, chimichurri. Served with yuca fries, white rice, and black beans.
  3. Pollo Asado – Charbroiled chicken, Cuban-style Romesco. Served with pickled vegetables, tostones, and yellow rice.

Reviews:

“Lunch here was a wonderful experience! We throughly enjoyed every aspect of this restaurant. The teas were beautiful, the coffee was rich, and the food was generously portioned and flavorful. Our server, Jessianna, was so sweet, providing us with great service and pleasant conversation. There was such a fun atmosphere! If we are ever back in Cincinnati, we will be sure to stop in again!”
– Elise C

Restaurant Information:

exploring the best cincinnati in restaurants

Wrap Up

There you have it – the top 5 Cincinnati restaurants worth exploring when you’re in the city!

And if you’d like to know more about the area, please contact me at 513-447-5858 or mwalley@comey.com, and let’s schedule a meeting!

Frequently Asked Questions

Two of the best restaurants for a romantic dinner are Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse and Conserva.

Where can I find the best Cincinnati restaurants with outdoor seating?

One of the Cincy dining spots with vegan/vegetarian options is Conserva.

Yes, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse and Maplewood Kitchen and Bar are family-friendly restaurants.