10 Great Restaurants in Cincinnati

Founded by chef and restaurateur David Falk, Boca has set a culinary precedent in Cincinnati with its lavish décor and elegant European cuisine. Melding French and Italian flavors, this is a dinner-only restaurant—a place to indulge yourself in style come evening.

Located in a former maisonette in vibrant downtown, Boca offers small bites and sharing dishes, as well as a decadent desserts list. Pair your meal with a glass of wine, a flute of champagne, or a swanky cocktail.

A hidden gem in downtown Cincinnati, Sotto is a romantic trattoria set in an atmospheric basement space. Mood lighting, rustic wooden furniture, and red curtains set the tone for gutsy Italian fare, including elegant antipasto, freshly made pasta, and hearty, succulent meats.

Making many of the city’s top picks lists, Sotto’s to-die-for Italian desserts are designed to woo the senses. It’s the perfect place for a family get together or a candlelit date night. Don’t forget to book a table.

For cozy hospitality and big helpings of everything, nothing beats The Eagle. Located just a short stroll from the emerald expanse of Washington Park, this laid-back beer hall serves all the good stuff: golden fried chicken, ice-cold craft beers, and generous plates of finger-licking soul food.

The Eagle is one of Cincinnati’s favorite meetups thanks to a blues music soundtrack and a vibrant atmosphere. Sample local brews at the wrap-around bar or enjoy a meal at a farmhouse table.

Maplewood Bar and Kitchen in downtown Cincinnati prides itself on its locally roasted coffee, cold pressed juices, and wide selection of West Coast cuisine. It’s a laidback café where sunny California comes to life through a light, bright aesthetic and fresh, natural ingredients.

Grab yourself a comfy booth and dig in to an all-day breakfast or take a seat at one of the venue’s many tables. Order a sandwich, skewer, and a specialty coffee, or treat yourself to an indulgent cocktail.

Pepp & Dolores is a charismatic Italian restaurant located in Cincinnati’s historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. The venue is celebrated for its authentic handmade pasta dishes that were inspired by the founder’s grandparents, Pepp and Dolores.

Here, it’s all about the Sunday sauce—from nonna’s iconic spaghetti sauce to sumptuous toppings infused with exquisite ingredients, including Meyer lemon, lamb ragu, fennel sausage, and Calabrian chili. Pair your pasta with a curated wine or enjoy a cocktail or a glass of fizz.

The brainchild of James Beard nominated chef Jose Salazar, Goose & Elder is conveniently situated across the road from Cincinnati’s historic Findlay Market, making it a perfect pit stop while shopping. Inside its laidback interior, you’ll enjoy juicy burgers, sharing plates, hearty main courses, and dreamy desserts.

Aesthetically, the venue has the atmosphere of an old-school diner, reimagined with rustic chairs and tables. Grab a seat, watch the world pass by, and enjoy a craft beer or a fancy cocktail.

Part of the Montgomery Inn restaurant chain, The Boathouse is renowned for its succulent barbecue, summery salads, and flavorful meat dishes. Located in downtown Cincinnati, with stunning views over the Ohio River, this beloved kitchen and sports bar is a veteran in the food scene.

Try the venue’s irresistible ribs, sample the chicken and shrimp, or satisfy your hunger with a fat sizzling steak. The Boathouse also offers a convenient carry-out and delivery service for those who fancy a delicious takeaway.

Set in the vibrant Cincinnati neighborhood of Pleasant Ridge, The Lonely Pine Steakhouse transports diners back in time to Midcentury America when roadhouses and diners were all the rage. Outfitted with an old-school bar and retro décor, it’s a place for Southwestern flavors and fat, juicy steaks.

Soak up the nostalgia while enjoying porterhouse, ribeye, and sizzling strip steaks, as well as starters, “sidekicks”, oysters, and burgers. Order a cocktail or a bottle of wine, before finishing up with a scrumptious dessert.

The Precinct is an upscale steakhouse set in a historic former police house in Cincinnati’s oldest neighborhood: Columbia-Tusculum. A multiple award winner, the venue is renowned for its Romanesque-style exterior and show-stopping décor—red velvet chairs, opulent chandeliers, and leadlight windows.

Here, the steaks take center stage with succulent Japanese wagyu, filet mignon, and prime cuts cooked to perfection by a talented team. A well-stocked cigar list is also on offer or try a decadent dessert if you prefer something sweet.

For entertainment, atmosphere, and some delicious deep fried food, nothing beats the Northside Yacht Club. This Cincinnati hangout contains a nautical-themed interior, blistering live music, and an alfresco patio where you can chat and relax.

Swing by for a quick drink, catch the Bengals on game day, or grab a booth (and a bite to eat) while enjoying karaoke, trivia, or a dynamic ‘Cincy’ band. There’s burgers, wings, and cocktails aplenty, and a range of cold beers in cans or on tap.