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Best of the Best
Only looking for the best of the best?
These dining establishments are continually listed as the "best of the region" in local and national publications.
Boca
3200 Madison Road
Cincinnati, OH 45209
513-542-2022
Intimate and upscale, Boca is where you to go to brag about where you went to dinner last night where you go to surround yourself with other fashionable people. The Trattoria side is small but cozy, more casual and less expensive.
Cincinnati, OH 45209
513-542-2022
Intimate and upscale, Boca is where you to go to brag about where you went to dinner last night where you go to surround yourself with other fashionable people. The Trattoria side is small but cozy, more casual and less expensive.
Brown Dog Cafe
5893 Pfeiffer Road
Cincinnati, OH 45242
513-794-1610
This Blue Ash spot offers a sophisticated and eclectic cuisine in a modern yet intimate setting. Relax at the bar for cocktails, a signature martini list and a diverse selection of excellent wines.
Cincinnati, OH 45242
513-794-1610
This Blue Ash spot offers a sophisticated and eclectic cuisine in a modern yet intimate setting. Relax at the bar for cocktails, a signature martini list and a diverse selection of excellent wines.
Carlo & Johnny
9769 Montgomery Road
Cincinnati, OH 45242
(513) 936-8600
There's a Chicago-style steak house elegance here, in the richly designed decor and general ambience, but with an Italian twist. Three unique dining rooms plus a lovely outdoor patio welcome diners. A place to relax and enjoy the good life, with live music.
Cincinnati, OH 45242
(513) 936-8600
There's a Chicago-style steak house elegance here, in the richly designed decor and general ambience, but with an Italian twist. Three unique dining rooms plus a lovely outdoor patio welcome diners. A place to relax and enjoy the good life, with live music.
Celestial Steakhouse
1071 Celestial St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-241-4455
This Cincinnati dining tradition draws a sophisticated crowd for its four-star steakhouse fare, cool jazz and fabulous view. The Incline Lounge serves a broad range of wine by the glass, as well as martinis, single malts, bourbons and cocktails. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-241-4455
This Cincinnati dining tradition draws a sophisticated crowd for its four-star steakhouse fare, cool jazz and fabulous view. The Incline Lounge serves a broad range of wine by the glass, as well as martinis, single malts, bourbons and cocktails. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Cumin
3520 Erie Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45208
513-871-8714
With a sleek, stylish interior, Cumin is sure to be a hit with people seeking a hip dining spot in Hyde Park. Offering up Indian fusion cuisine and a trendy atmosphere, this is a promising spot for the hip and sophisticated.
Cincinnati, OH 45208
513-871-8714
With a sleek, stylish interior, Cumin is sure to be a hit with people seeking a hip dining spot in Hyde Park. Offering up Indian fusion cuisine and a trendy atmosphere, this is a promising spot for the hip and sophisticated.
Daveed's at 934
934 Hatch St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-2665
Owner/chef David Cook calls his cuisine "contemporary, eclectic" with an ethnic influence, executed in a "French technique". This spot nestled in the heart of Mt. Adams is sleek, but comfortable and upbeat - reflecting the spectacular cuisine. Original art for sale hangs on the walls.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-2665
Owner/chef David Cook calls his cuisine "contemporary, eclectic" with an ethnic influence, executed in a "French technique". This spot nestled in the heart of Mt. Adams is sleek, but comfortable and upbeat - reflecting the spectacular cuisine. Original art for sale hangs on the walls.
El Coyote
7404 State Road
Cincinnati, OH 45230
513-232-5757
El Coyote is the original "Tex-Mex" restaurant in Cincinnati. Since 1980, its steaks, chops, seafood, Southwestern specialties and margaritas have become dining favorites-and the relaxed atmosphere is a great escape from the daily grind.
Cincinnati, OH 45230
513-232-5757
El Coyote is the original "Tex-Mex" restaurant in Cincinnati. Since 1980, its steaks, chops, seafood, Southwestern specialties and margaritas have become dining favorites-and the relaxed atmosphere is a great escape from the daily grind.
Graeter's
15 Locations in Cincinnati USA
Returning downtown after nearly a year absence, Graeter's 1,750 square foot Fountain Square location is the perfect place to enjoy a frozen treat in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. You don't have to limit yourself to just ice cream, though, as the location has plenty of pastries and other treats ready to help your sweet tooth get its fix.
Returning downtown after nearly a year absence, Graeter's 1,750 square foot Fountain Square location is the perfect place to enjoy a frozen treat in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. You don't have to limit yourself to just ice cream, though, as the location has plenty of pastries and other treats ready to help your sweet tooth get its fix.
Honey
4034 Hamilton Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45223
513-541-4300
Enjoy this cozy and casually cosmopolitan spot with simple decor, botanical prints on the walls, and subtle light from skylights. There's an upscale bohemian vibe to Honey, with a multigenerational and diverse clientele. You'll feel comfy dressed down or up.
Cincinnati, OH 45223
513-541-4300
Enjoy this cozy and casually cosmopolitan spot with simple decor, botanical prints on the walls, and subtle light from skylights. There's an upscale bohemian vibe to Honey, with a multigenerational and diverse clientele. You'll feel comfy dressed down or up.
Hugo
3235 Madison Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45209
513-321-HUGO
Enjoy the Charleston-like feel of warm southern hospitality in the restaurant and the small plates lounge - complete with brick fireplace - or just relax with a selection from the extensive wine list representing both domestic and imported vintages.
Cincinnati, OH 45209
513-321-HUGO
Enjoy the Charleston-like feel of warm southern hospitality in the restaurant and the small plates lounge - complete with brick fireplace - or just relax with a selection from the extensive wine list representing both domestic and imported vintages.
Iron Horse Inn
40 Village Square
Cincinnati, OH 45246
513-772-3333
Built in the 1850s and located beside the train tracks in historic Glendale Square, the Iron Horse sits against a backdrop best described as a Norman Rockwell painting come to life. Inside, however, the Iron Horse is a completely different experience. Remodeled in 2008, the restaurant's upstairs area is designed to feel like an upscale supper club. Downstairs, the foyer is highlighted with an Far East influence throughout the decor
Cincinnati, OH 45246
513-772-3333
Built in the 1850s and located beside the train tracks in historic Glendale Square, the Iron Horse sits against a backdrop best described as a Norman Rockwell painting come to life. Inside, however, the Iron Horse is a completely different experience. Remodeled in 2008, the restaurant's upstairs area is designed to feel like an upscale supper club. Downstairs, the foyer is highlighted with an Far East influence throughout the decor
JeanRo Bistro
413 Vine St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-621-1465
Tables are covered with white linens and butcher paper; gracious service is offered in a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere associated with Parisian bistros. Decorated with unique fixtures; fun, authentic posters and objects from many years of Jean-Robert de Cavel’s personal collection.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-621-1465
Tables are covered with white linens and butcher paper; gracious service is offered in a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere associated with Parisian bistros. Decorated with unique fixtures; fun, authentic posters and objects from many years of Jean-Robert de Cavel’s personal collection.
Jeff Ruby's
700 Walnut St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
(513) 784-1200
Got a special occasion? Get dressed up and let the tuxedo-clad wait staff spoil you. If you're not up for the pricey meal, check out the bar, which is as classy as the restaurant but perhaps more fun. There's live entertainment every night.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
(513) 784-1200
Got a special occasion? Get dressed up and let the tuxedo-clad wait staff spoil you. If you're not up for the pricey meal, check out the bar, which is as classy as the restaurant but perhaps more fun. There's live entertainment every night.
Jo An Japanese Restaurant
3940 Olympic Blvd.
Erlanger, KY 41018
859-746-2634
Nearly hidden away in an office park building surrounded by business suites, this modest sushi spot is no secret to the local Japanese community. While Jo An is approachable enough for beginners, it’s even more of a treat for those familiar with Japanese cuisine.
Erlanger, KY 41018
859-746-2634
Nearly hidden away in an office park building surrounded by business suites, this modest sushi spot is no secret to the local Japanese community. While Jo An is approachable enough for beginners, it’s even more of a treat for those familiar with Japanese cuisine.
Local 127
127 W. Fourth St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-1345
Formerly Jean-Robert at Pigall's, Local 127 has Las Vegas-trained master sommelier Steven Geddes as the brains behind this restaurant aimed to cultivate local producers and use nearby agricultural products as fully as possible.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-1345
Formerly Jean-Robert at Pigall's, Local 127 has Las Vegas-trained master sommelier Steven Geddes as the brains behind this restaurant aimed to cultivate local producers and use nearby agricultural products as fully as possible.
Mount Adams Fish House
940 Pavilion St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-3250
Wash down that mahi-mahi with some sake, wine or one of the specialty martinis at this casual but classy neighborhood eatery.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-3250
Wash down that mahi-mahi with some sake, wine or one of the specialty martinis at this casual but classy neighborhood eatery.
Nada
600 Walnut St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-6232
Located in the glass-fronted space adjoining the Aronoff Center, Nada offers open seating and a bar on the first level featuring premium tequilas and fresh juices, while reserved seating is available on the upper level. Contrasting rustic touches have been added to the contemporary decor.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-6232
Located in the glass-fronted space adjoining the Aronoff Center, Nada offers open seating and a bar on the first level featuring premium tequilas and fresh juices, while reserved seating is available on the upper level. Contrasting rustic touches have been added to the contemporary decor.
Nectar
1000 Delta Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45208
513-929-0525
One open airy space painted an earthy pumpkin color with wood tables, chairs and benches along the walls offers a friendly "get together" ambience, with views onto Mount Lookout Square and natural light from the large front windows.
Cincinnati, OH 45208
513-929-0525
One open airy space painted an earthy pumpkin color with wood tables, chairs and benches along the walls offers a friendly "get together" ambience, with views onto Mount Lookout Square and natural light from the large front windows.
Nicola's Ristorante
1420 Sycamore St..
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-6200
Contemporary and spacious, the restaurant was once a car barn for incline trolleys in the 19th century and retains that historic charm. Nicola Pietoso, a native of Italy, first brought the culinary traditions of Tuscany to Cincinnati in 1996.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-6200
Contemporary and spacious, the restaurant was once a car barn for incline trolleys in the 19th century and retains that historic charm. Nicola Pietoso, a native of Italy, first brought the culinary traditions of Tuscany to Cincinnati in 1996.
Orchids at Palm Court
35 W. Fifth St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-9100
Located in the Art Deco masterpiece that is the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza in downtown, Orchids is a destination just for the historic beauty of the architecture and surroundings - urban and elegant with echoes of a bygone era.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-9100
Located in the Art Deco masterpiece that is the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza in downtown, Orchids is a destination just for the historic beauty of the architecture and surroundings - urban and elegant with echoes of a bygone era.
Palace Restaurant
601 Vine St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
(513) 381-6006
You'll find a formal and elegant, but relaxed environment at the Palace Restaurant, inside the historic Cincinnatian Hotel downtown. A special occasion destination.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
(513) 381-6006
You'll find a formal and elegant, but relaxed environment at the Palace Restaurant, inside the historic Cincinnatian Hotel downtown. A special occasion destination.
Primavista
810 Matson Place
Cincinnati, OH 45204
(513) 251-6467
Featuring one of the best views of Cincinnati available anywhere in town, Primavista lives up to its name and reputation as one of the area's best Italian restaurants. The quiet elegance is offset by the coziness here - and the view makes it a great spot for a drink as well as a meal.
Cincinnati, OH 45204
(513) 251-6467
Featuring one of the best views of Cincinnati available anywhere in town, Primavista lives up to its name and reputation as one of the area's best Italian restaurants. The quiet elegance is offset by the coziness here - and the view makes it a great spot for a drink as well as a meal.
Riverside Korean Restaurant
512 Madison Ave.
Covington, KY 41011
(859) 291-1484
Traditional Korean seating (cushions around low tables) is an option at this restaurant, but you can always keep your shoes on and sit at a regular booth. The restaurant is small, but well worth the wait. For large groups, it's best to make reservations in advance.
Covington, KY 41011
(859) 291-1484
Traditional Korean seating (cushions around low tables) is an option at this restaurant, but you can always keep your shoes on and sit at a regular booth. The restaurant is small, but well worth the wait. For large groups, it's best to make reservations in advance.
Slims
4046 Hamilton Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45223
513-681-6500
Slims has a reputation as an out-of-the-mainstream insider’s restaurant, located in hipster Northside. People come for the bohemian atmosphere as well as owner Patrick McCafferty’s fresh Latin American dishes such as vatapa or mofongo.
Cincinnati, OH 45223
513-681-6500
Slims has a reputation as an out-of-the-mainstream insider’s restaurant, located in hipster Northside. People come for the bohemian atmosphere as well as owner Patrick McCafferty’s fresh Latin American dishes such as vatapa or mofongo.
Soho Sushi
28 W. Fourth St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-246-4261
This lunchtime sushi spot offers six signature rolls and the option to put together your own combination of wrap, meats, veggies and spices. (Don't worry, their trained professionals will do the actual rolling and cutting.)
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-246-4261
This lunchtime sushi spot offers six signature rolls and the option to put together your own combination of wrap, meats, veggies and spices. (Don't worry, their trained professionals will do the actual rolling and cutting.)
Song Long Restaurant
1737 Section Road
Cincinnati, OH 45237
(513) 351-7631
Song Long is a neighborhood eatery that combines a mom-and-pop feel with international flavor. The ambiance is comfortable and simple with a touch of Asian decor.
Cincinnati, OH 45237
(513) 351-7631
Song Long is a neighborhood eatery that combines a mom-and-pop feel with international flavor. The ambiance is comfortable and simple with a touch of Asian decor.
Terry's Turf Club
4618 Eastern Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45226
513-533-4222
The previous owner of Neon's on Main Street has his new establishment decorated with neon signs that softly light the old-style diner interior. Fast becoming a favorite with regulars, the food, conversation at the bar and ambience keep folks coming back.
Cincinnati, OH 45226
513-533-4222
The previous owner of Neon's on Main Street has his new establishment decorated with neon signs that softly light the old-style diner interior. Fast becoming a favorite with regulars, the food, conversation at the bar and ambience keep folks coming back.
The Precinct
311 Delta Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-321-5454
In 1981, Jeff Ruby remodeled this historic and architecturally significant patrol house, turning it into one of the city's premiere restaurants. It has been a favorite of Cincinnatians, celebrities and critics ever since. The interior glows with turn of the century elegance and grace.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-321-5454
In 1981, Jeff Ruby remodeled this historic and architecturally significant patrol house, turning it into one of the city's premiere restaurants. It has been a favorite of Cincinnatians, celebrities and critics ever since. The interior glows with turn of the century elegance and grace.
Via Vite Restaurant
520 Vine St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-8483
Located in the only free-standing building on Fountain Square, Via Vite offers a birds-eye view into the heart of downtown Cincinnati in an attractive architectural setting. Take the live music in the upstairs dining/bar area, the elevated patio seating and late-night menu into account and Via Vite will make you shout "bravo Italia" by the end of your visit.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-8483
Located in the only free-standing building on Fountain Square, Via Vite offers a birds-eye view into the heart of downtown Cincinnati in an attractive architectural setting. Take the live music in the upstairs dining/bar area, the elevated patio seating and late-night menu into account and Via Vite will make you shout "bravo Italia" by the end of your visit.
