Cincinnati is a place filled with some of the best dining destinations. While the city faced a lot of obstacles in the past, they didn’t stop Cincinnati from making its mark on the map, particularly in their dining scene. If you haven’t been to Cincinnati, it’s high time that you do because you should never miss the opportunity to try some of the best restaurants and bars in town.
Sundry and Vice
This dark and warm hub is ideal for a chilly winter night. They have an extensive selection of cocktails, including old fashioneds and boulevardiers, as well as their house blend cocktails.
Must-Try: Don’t leave until you try the Truth and Dare, which is a combination of sesame-washed gin, grapefruit bitters, plum, and fortune cookie garnish.
Insider Tip: If you are indecisive as to what to order, you can always opt for the bartender’s choice. Let them know what flavors you want, and they will be able to point you in the right direction.
Orchids at Palm Court
The Orchids at Palm Court is a well-regarded restaurant in all of Cincinnati. It features fine-dining choices that will bring you back to America’s high-end dining experience. Palatial furnishings and high ceilings will welcome you as you enter the upscale food hub.
Must-Try: The grand 10-course tasting menu is all worth your $120. Their menu always updates, so make sure to ask their staff for the best on the list. Some of the new dishes include seared scallops with lardo and squash blossoms with green tomato and soubise.
Insider Tip: The restaurant is located beside a bar, so you can come for an after-dinner drink and enjoy the view of the river.
Salazar
Salazar should make it to the list of your must-try restaurants in Cincinnati. Jose Salazar established this local favorite. The relaxing interior of the restaurant will ensure you have an intimate time with your family and friends while you dine over a glass of wine or cocktail.
Must-Try: You can have their Reuben sandwiches, which is famous for its “million island dressing,” if you arrive for lunch.
Insider Tip: While Salazar offers tasty entrées, you should not forget to try their equally delicious coffee and tea offerings.
Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar
They say to do as the locals do, and if you are in Cincinnati, it means visiting Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar. This bourbon bar offers over 300 bottles of local bourbon and whiskey. They can either be served as they are or mixed with other cocktails.
Must-Try: Don’t overlook their local bourbon as well as the Horse’s Neck.
Insider Tip: Make sure to check out the house specials before deciding what to order as they feature a rotating bourbon and cocktail of the day.
Senate
Senate is not your typical dog joint. This cool hot dog house was established by Daniel Wright, who is well-known in the entire city for his exceptional talent in cooking. He upgrades American comfort food, one notch up with his gourmet dishes.
Must-Try: Don’t sleep on their Shia LaBeouf hot dog with goat cheese, bacon, arugula, onions, and balsamic.
Insider Tip: They recently opened a second location in Blue Ash.