Best Restaurants in Downtown Cincinnati
In some cities, the downtown restaurant scene is limited to fast food chains and quick-serve spots that cater to the business lunch crowd. Not so in Cincinnati!! Here, the downtown district has plenty of great spots no matter what you’re craving or how much you want to spend. Here are a few of our picks for the best restaurants in downtown Cincinnati:
O’Malley’s In the Alley ($). Stepping into O’Malley’s is like stepping back in time—just watch your head: Cincinnati’s second oldest bar still boasts its original, low-hanging tin ceilings! The cuisine is standard pub-grub fare done right, but the real draws here are the beer selection and the excellent views from the patio.
Maplewood Kitchen & Bar ($$). This popular brunch spot uses organic ingredients to elevate dishes like lemon ricotta pancakes and rotisserie chicken hash. The breakfast sandwich also manages to make goetta seem healthy, so this spot deserves a mention just for that.
Sotto ($$$). If you’re looking for great Italian restaurants in Cincinnati, consider Sotto, where the ambiance is dark and romantic and the food is authentic and rich. (Insider tip: go for lunch, and you’ll receive one of their popular ricotta donuts free with your meal).
Restaurant L ($$$$). Few restaurants in Cincinnati do a better job setting the stage for a special-occasion meal, from the elegantly-plated fine French cuisine to the gorgeous tree in the center of the dining room.