What Are The Best Restaurants in Cincinnati?

Cincinnati, Ohio, is a city known for its Midwestern hospitality and its rich cultural heritage ― from its baseball roots to its strong food scene. The city’s greater metropolitan area is filled with diverse and delicious cuisine for visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a romantic dinner, a night out on the town, or a casual lunch for the whole family, checking out the top restaurants in Cincinnati is a must. If you’re exploring the Queen City and in the mood for a fantastic meal, here are the top 10 restaurants in Cincinnati to consider.

1. Boca

A modern restaurant steeped in traditional French cuisine, Boca has quickly become one of the best places to eat in Cincinnati. Founded by renowned chef and restaurateur David Falk in 2005, Boca has an upscale menu that includes steaks, signature dishes, seafood, salads, and homemade desserts like their awesome banana chocolate crumble. Prices are a bit higher than you might find at most other restaurants, but Boca’s classy atmosphere and exquisite food make it worth every penny.

2. Jean-Robert’s Table

Run by Executive Chef Jean-Robert de Cavel, Jean-Robert’s Table offers an impressive contemporary menu that features French and Mediterranean flavors. Beyond the convenient location in downtown for those exploring the city, this one-of-a-kind restaurant offers great options from special seasonal dishes to signature offerings like their coq au vin

3. Senate

When it comes to burgers and beer in Cincinnati, Senate is one of the most popular options available. Located just south of downtown in historic Findlay Market, Senate serves up a fantastic selection of burgers and specialty fries. There is even a full bar for those who want to add on a craft beer to their meal. It’s Greek-inspired eatery, Senate also brings unique tastes like gyro and flatbread sandwiches to its patrons.

4. Taft’s Ale House

Inspired by the life and legacy of former President of the United States William Howard Taft, Taft’s Ale House is Cincinnati’s Palace of Purveyors. Located in the city’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood (UBER OTR), this modern restaurant has a relaxed vibe that pays homage to its historic setting. The menu features delicious pub fare along with its selection of craft beer from the Taft Ale House brewery.

5. Nada

Nada brings a little slice of Mexico to Cincinnati with a modern cuisine that’s full of flavor. The bustling cantina specializes in Mexican street tacos, margaritas, and delicious entrees like enchiladas and chile rellenos. Its menu features both conventional and creative options ― like their amazing chocolate con churros for dessert ― and offers special vegan options too making it a great choice for everyone

6. Taste of Belgium

Those who want to add some European flair to their Cincinnati restaurant experience should definitely visit Taste of Belgium. Located in midtown Cincinnati near the University of Cincinnati and other college campuses, Taste of Belgium is famed for its unique Belgian waffles that are served up with decadent toppings like bananas foster. Diners can also try out their light menu featuring classic menu items like sandwiches and salads for lunch or dinner.

7. Salazar

Salazar brings classic Mexican flavors to life with dishes like birria tacos, tamales, and seafood items like ceviche and mussels – all with a modern twist. The restaurant comes equipped with an outdoor seating area that has comfy couches and heaters to keep diners warm during the colder months.

8. The Eagle

One of the newer restaurants on this list, The Eagle is conveniently located in Over-the-Rhine (OTR) near Washington Park. With an impressive menu that combines classic American dishes with contemporary flavors, The Eagle is the perfect place to come with friends or family for an unforgettable evening out. True to its name, nearly every dish on the menu ― from french fry variations to main entrees ― feature chicken from Mary’s Free Range Chickens.

9. The Mercer Gastropub

The Mercer Gastropub brings classic saloons into the 21st century with their creative menu items ― like truffle tater tots, beer cheese fondue, and inventive burgers – all served up in a sophisticated yet casual setting. With an extensive beer list featuring local beers from MadTree Brewing Company, Rhinegeist Brewery, Little Miami Brewing Co., Streetside Brewery, and more, it’s easy to add a pint or two to your meal without worrying about breaking the bank.

10. Pit To Plate BBQ

Smoked brisket, pulled pork, pork spare ribs — Pit To Plate BBQ has it all and more! The restaurant focuses on Southern-style BBQ favorites cooked low-and-slow with their custom-made smoker pit loaded up with fresh wood chips from local forests. Add on some traditional sides ― like coleslaw or mac & cheese― and wash it all down with sweet tea or your favorite craft beer and you have one amazing meal worth remembering! When searching for great places to eat in Cincinnati, these top 10 restaurants are sure to impress your taste buds amicably! From seafood to steaks and Southern BBQ style food to creative burgers — there’s something for everyone in the Queen City! To learn more about Cincinnati’s food & drink scene, make sure you check out Visit Cincinnati USA for additional information on some of the best restaurants, food festivals and specials throughout the greater Cincinnati area!