The Heart of the Matter
Whether your plans call for celebrating with your Galentines, having a night out with your pals, or wooing your Valentine, we've got the dish on delicious ways to enjoy an evening with your favorite folks.
Need a plan for your Galentine or Valentine?
Look no further! Find a list of drinks, dinner, and desserts to make your Valentine’s Day – or the weekend before or after, it’s weird on a Wednesday – unforgettable.
Ovaries before brovaries
Grab your favorite gal pals and head to Braxton Brewing for an early Galentine’s Day Brunch on Saturday, Feb. 10. Enjoy a brunch buffet by Taste of Belgium, with Braxton beers, bloody Marys, mimosas, and DIY floral bouquets.
Treat your girlfriends (and yourself) to a shopping trip at Junebug Jewelry Designs on Saturday, Feb. 10. Shop their latest designs and enjoy signature cocktails from Molly Wellmann. Plus enjoy 15% off all purchases made during the event!
Things will definitely be looking up when you head to the Galentine’s Brunch at the Observatory on Sunday, Feb. 11. Celebrate with brunch, a mimosa bar, a program about Women in Astronomy, and even a self-care goodie bag.
The Stretch gets into the Parks & Rec spirit for Galentine’s Day on Feb. 13 with “surround sound” music from our DJ Roomba, Pin the Mustache on Ron Swanson, and even an appearance by Lil Sebastian.
turn up the romance
Ladies, dine on lobster bisque, surf and turf, Beef Wellington and more and enjoy a complimentary rose with your meal at The Filson.
Steal a-pizza their heart with a cheesy good time at Killer Queen – especially with half-off pizzas for Valentine’s Day. Plus discounts on your fave drinks.
Louvino Cincinnati in OTR is offering a romantic three-course prix-fixe menu of their signature dishes, plus a prosecco greeting to start the evening.
Feeling Fiery? Head to the Fire + Ice Dinners at Moerlein Lager House, running the next two weekends, with ice bars, fire performers, and special themed dinners.
Delight in a decadent three-course Italian dinner on Valentine's Day at Nicola’s Ristorante, for a truly romantic experience.
Take your beloved’s breathe away with incredible views of the Cincinnati skyline with Valentine’s Day dinner at Opal Rooftop.
Love’s a game, right? Win gift cards, prizes and more during Red Leprechaun’s bingo night.
Kick your Valentine’s Day up a notch and enjoy fine dining at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse with a prix fixe menu and special hours for Valentine’s Week.
Find love at the The Stretch is giving you a break on Valentine’s Day proper with a Stoplight Party on Feb. 15 for those who are single, taken, or find things are “complicated.”
Love – and the aroma of baking – is in the air at Taste of Belgium. Dive into a stack of their Red Velvet Waffles and bring some home to enjoy when the craving hits.
Don’t forget to make those reservations, to ensure a smooth date with your sweetie.
Bet on a Good Time
Nation Kitchen and Bar has teamed with BetMGM for a food and fun right across from Great American Ball Park.
Opening Day is 63 days away. With the cold weather, rain, and more rain, we’re more than ready for Spring.
175 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Nation Kitchen & Bar open
Monday–Thursday, 11 a.m–9 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Saturday,10 a.m.–10 p.m.; Sunday10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sportsbook opem
Monday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m to midnight; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to midnight
More info at www.nationkitchenandbar.com/the-banks.
Now there’s a new place to count down to the biggest and best day on the sports calendar!
The BetMGM Sportsbook at The Banks has teamed with Nation Kitchen & Bar to create the perfect sports-watching experience, with burgers, beers, betting, and big TVs.
The restaurant area is open to all ages, while the sportsbook is for those 21 and over.
Photos: Shae Huth
Nation is renowned locally for its award-winning burgers, like the Temperance Burger with beef, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles and mayo plus a monthly BIT burger, with proceeds donated to a local non-profit. The menu also includes brunch on Saturday and Sunday, complete with chicken and waffles, French toast, and breakfast tots. The bottomless mimosas Named in honor (?) of Carrie Nation,
The new BetMGM Sportsbook at The Banks has a 350-square foot video wall, 14 Sports betting kiosks, three betting windows, and a VIP room with private bar and betting kiosks. Later this spring, a covered outdoor patio with seating and TVs will open.
Get a Grip
What's better than a grilled cheese at Frisch's Big Boy? A Grippo's grilled cheese! Find out how to sink your teeth into this new collab.
The ultimate comfort food just got a uniquely Cincinnati twist.
Two iconic Cincinnati flavors have teamed up to create a crunchy collaboration, as Frisch's Big Boy welcomes back the Grippo's Grilled Cheese Sandwich.
This classic Cincinnati collab debuted in 2021 and by popular demand, has returned to the Frisch's menu through Feb. 10. (So hurry!)
The Grippo’s Grilled Cheese is topped with four slices of melted American cheese and Grippo’s crunchy, tangy potato chips, grilled until golden between two pieces of Texas Toast. Of course, it pairs perfectly with a bowl of Frisch's classic tomato bisque!
The Grippo's Grilled Cheese is available for dine in, carry out or drive thru.
2023 Favorite Dishes
Cincinnati prides itself on haute cuisine while still loving hot dogs. See what we just couldn't get enough of at local restaurants.
OpenTable recently named six Ohio restaurants to its Top 100 list.
And guess what? They’re all in Cincinnati!
Are we surprised about this latest honor? Not one bit.
Cincinnati is a food lover’s paradise. You can have it all – Midwest comfort food, a juicy, delicious steak at a fine restaurant, and the delights from all over the world around every corner.
We checked in with our Cincinnati Favorites folks for their picks for their best dishes of 2023.
Scallops at 20 Brix!
It was my 40th birthday and I was surrounded by my best friends! Food tastes better when you're with people you love.
– Sarah Celenza
Everything I ate at Boca
Specifically the leek caesar salad!
– Megan Coffey
A pork chop and hoppin’ John at Nolia.
Chef Jeffery Harris deserves all the accolades.
– Hillary Copsey
Delwood, best burger in Cincinnati.
– Tim David
Courtesy: Delwood
Lauren Artino echoes his sentiments choosing a Classic Delwood double, smothered and THEIR SPICY MARGARITA. Hold the bun, add lettuce, please!
Steak Collinsworth.
Bridget England says only one place in the Tristate does it right, and it’s Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse.
The Porterhouse at the Chef's Table at Sotto.
– Chef Christian Gill
Courtesy: Sotto
Chicken Tikka Masala from Amol India
– Emma Guckiean
Lamb Tikka Masala
There’s only one place that Stephen Schmidt will place his order. And that’s Grace of India in White Oak.
The Blackened Mahi-Mahi at the Emery Restaurant
Courtesy: Emery
Served with a veggie saute and topped with a shrimp remoulade - YUM! Plus, their service is top-notch. The art of their seasonal menu is incredible!
Also, you can never go wrong with the wedge salad and petite filet mignon at Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse.
– Krista Katona Pille
Courtesy: Pepp & Dolores
Pasta al limone at Pepp and Dolores.
Satisfying on every level!
– Evans Mirageas
Crispy Brussels at Baru Shushi.
– Jenifer Moore
Tagliarini with Mushroom Ragu from Mama's on Main.
Any dish from there is heaven, but this one takes the cake, especially with the focaccia with whipped ricotta.
Courtesy: Mama’s on Main
– Kathrine Nero
(Who has us drooling over
this dish!)
Ntakos Salad at Fillo.
– Mindy Rosen
Kiki Ramen Fish Special.
The fish was lightly breaded and flash-fried fish with fresh chilis. It was spicy but full of flavor not just heat, light but filling, and absolutely delicious. I have not stopped thinking about for months.
– Tricia Suit
beer and the tacos from J’s Fish Taco Truck!
– Amy Thompson
Her tip: They are best enjoyed in a Narrow Path Brewery outdoor Igloo!
Courtesy: J’s Fish Tacos
Big Dipper Nachos at The Filson.
The Grippo’s seasoning is key!
– Courtney Tomasetti
Courtesy: The Filson
Gordita Crunch Wrap with a side of Fried Okra.
From High Grain Brewery, it’s best washed down with Alpsi, Munich Dunkel Lager. Always fresh, tasty and rather healthy. The house made beer bheese is awesome too!.”
– Jayne Utter
A Big Bee Day
Birthday Cake pancakes filled with sprinkles and topped with whipped cream – Where can you find this mouthwatering dish? Just follow the buzz to Sleepy Bee Cafe's 10th birthday celebrations.
A decade in business, in any industry, is a big deal. This weekend, Sleepy Bee Cafe celebrates that milestone with pancakes, a special birthday brew, and more fun activities!
Sleepy Bee Cafe’s story started in Oakley in December 2013. Since then, Sleepy Bee has expanded to four locations while also crafting and curating a healthy, well-balanced menu, prioritizing sourcing from local farms and vendors, featuring local art, furniture and more, and continuing its composting and recycling journey.
Sleepy Bee Cafe is renowned for its sustainability, using bees as its muse and inspiration. The role of bees in the local ecosystem informs all the restaurant does, as they work to create the most sustainable and life-giving food and hospitality company.
Earlier this year, Sleepy Bee earned B Corp Certification from the nonprofit, B Lab. Sleepy Bee joins a select few restaurant groups designated as leaders in a global movement toward a more inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economy.
If you’re going to Sleepy Bee’s College Hill location to celebrate this weekend, head over to Brink Brewing Co. and try Sleepy Bee’s Breakfast Brew. It's Brink's award-winning milk stout, Moozie, with a Sleepy Bee twist.
This past year has been a banner year for Sleepy Bee. Along with the B Corp certification, the restaurant has received a number of regional “Best Of” awards and honors for their team. As partnerships continue to thrive, it has allowed the company to increase their sustainability efforts. Birthday cake pancakes sound like a great way to celebrate!
For more information about Sleepy Bee’s 10th birthday celebrations, visit sleepybeecafe.com.
A Cup of Kindness
This holiday season, Good Plates Eatery is giving away meals at no charge, as owners Andrew and Jamie Schlanser try to help as many of their neighbors as possible.
Good Plates Eatery
235 West McMillan
Open Tuesday - Saturday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
goodplateseatery.com
Interested in lending a helping hand? Make a donation to Good Plates through Venmo at @goodplateseatery.
This Christmas Eve, Good Plates Eatery will give away holiday meals at no charge. The Clifton eatery’s owners, Andrew and Jamie Schlanser, just wrapped up their Thanksgiving Meal Giveaway and are already in high-gear, working to make sure this year’s holiday events help as many of their neighbors as possible.
And it doesn’t matter if you need one meal or one per family member.
“There is no charge, no questions, no reason needed, just come in and we’ll have them ready,” say the Schlansers. “Six people in your family, six meals are packed up for you.”
“Something that started as a small thing of just wanting to make meals for anyone that needed one, has turned into a large thing of just wanting to make meals for anyone that needs one,” they continue. “We started In 2020 we did roughly 80 meals between the two holidays. In 2022 we were able to get out around 3,300 meals and we are planning to have enough food to go way beyond that number this year.”
In years past, the duo and their team have served up roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn and green beans, stuffing, breads and dessert and coffee to enjoy while you wait.
“Everything is packed in microwaveable containers so it can be reheated for a holiday meal, they’re also served warm if you just want to stop by and get something to eat!” say the owners.
For the Christmas Eve meals at Good Plates Eatery, doors will open at 12 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 24. Guest can come and simply
say how many meals they need, and they’ll be handed a bag with containers. The full Christmas meal menu is still being fine-tuned, and will be available on the website soon.
During pick-up, Good Plates will have desserts, coffee, and hot chocolate for anyone who’d like to sit and hang for a bit. Coat racks will be set up outside the restaurant for their final winter coat drive of the season.
When you stop in Good Plates Eatery, you’ll likely find a table stocked with canvas bags,T-shirts and hoodies, hand-poured beeswax candles, hot chocolate jars, room sprays, local honey and more gifts. The Schlansers say every dime goes toward the Holiday Meal Program.
“We couldn’t do it without friends, neighbors, and community members that donate so much and we are proud to keep this tradition going for years,” they say.
Trip to Bountiful
Enjoy a locally curated Thanksgiving feast by Tisdel Distributing that benefits La Soupe and makes your holiday stress-free and delicious.
Tisdel’s Thanksgiving Feast
Limited quantities available
Order at tisdeldistributing.com/thanksgiving. Pick up for pre-ordered meals will be Tuesday, Nov. 21, 12–2pm at Tisdel’s showroom at Kenwood Collection. 5901 E. Galbraith Road, Level R2.
Make your Thanksgiving a luxury experience with a unique offering from Sub-Zero, Wolf and Cove by Tisdel Distributing. With their showroom located in Kenwood, this family-owned company is offering a locally curated Thanksgiving feast, complete with gourmet recipes to make your holiday stress-free, distinctive – and delicious.
“The entire Tisdel Distributing family is filled with a sense of gratitude during this holiday season,” said Courtney Black, president of Tisdel Distributing. “It’s our honor to give back to the community, and do our part to put an end to food insecurity in Cincinnati.”
The feast includes:
Bronze-breasted whole fresh turkey, farm fresh produce and an aromatic herb bundle from Greenacres Foundation in Indian Hill
Parker House Rolls from Allez Bakery
Black Truffle Butter from Parisian Pantry
Signature spice rub, recipes, timeline, tips and directions for preparation by Tisdel Executive Chef Brandie Lamb
Whimsical smashing pumpkin from Chocolats Latour
Four carefully paired wines from Hart & Cru for an additional cost
The feast serves eight and costs $400, with proceeds donated to La Soupe, the Cincinnati nonprofit aimed at alleviating food insecurity and food waste.
“We consider our appliances to be the highest quality available, so it made sense to curate the very best local ingredients for your Thanksgiving meal,” said Brandie Lamb, executive chef, Tisdel Distributing.
“La Soupe is grateful for the support from Tisdel Distributing - and this partnership is a win-win,” said Suzy DeYoung, founder of La Soupe. “You get a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, and we have the means to further our outreach to prevent food insecurity with Tisdel’s generous donation.”
Tisdel Distributing is proud to shine a spotlight on local vendors in this Thanksgiving feast, curated by Amy Tobin and Co.
“This is just the beginning. We’re looking forward to more ways throughout the year to support our friends at La Soupe,” said Black.
All That and Dim Sum
From dumplings to bubble tea, Enson Harbor in Bellevue offers a world of authentic Chinese cuisine plus the rich flavors of traditional dim sum dishes.
Authentic dim sum, with a view of the Ohio River and Downtown Cincinnati on the side? Say less.
But actually, tell me more!
We recently made our way to Enson Harbor in Bellevue. (It’s in the former Joe’s Crab Shack, and, dare we say, it’s a GREAT replacement).
The menu includes traditional Chinese dishes, including handcrafted Xiao long Bao and an array of authentic dim sum options, all made to order.
You’ll find steamed buns, cold and hot noodles, fried rice, crab wontons, and soup. The incredible dumplings choices from golden beef to watercress with shrimp. Round out your meal with a cocktail and finish up with dim sum desserts or a refreshing (and fun!) bubble tea.
Additionally, a few of the dumpling options are gluten free! We tried the jumbo shrimp dumplings and the snow pea leaf dumplings, filled with shrimp and they.were.DELISH!
The service at Enson Harbor was great, and our food came out hot and fresh. Along with the flavorful dishes, the views were spectacular!
With a menu this big, we’ll be back for sure.
Sweet Talk
What's in the box? Crumbl Cookies brings freshly baked, ready for delivery, and always delicious cookies to new Tristate locations.
Crumbl Cookies
6173 Glenway Ave.
The new location joins four other Crumbl stores in the region. Each store offers a variety of the 250+ flavors that rotate weekly. A new weekly menu drop every Sunday!
Is the west side the best side? At the very least, it’s getting a whole lot sweeter.
The iconic and much-celebrated Crumbl Cookies is opening its fifth Cincinnati-area location tomorrow in Western Hills. And Cincinnati People got a sneak peak of the new location!
Each week, Crumbl features six of its 250 (and counting) rotating flavors of Instagram-worthy cookies in pink packaging. This week, feast your eyes – and stomach – on traditional chocolate chip, double fudge brownie, red velvet, pumpkin chocolate chip peaches and cream and frosted strawberry Pop-Tart. Our non-scientific Cincinnati People taste test revealed that last one was the surprise winner, with real Pop-Tart pieces on top and a sweet strawberry filling. Watch for a new menu every Sunday night!
Keep in mind – the cookies pictured here are sized for catering. The ones you’ll get in store are much larger.
Crumbl Cookies is the nation’s largest and fastest-growing cookie company with more than 350 locations across the country.
Too far from the West Side? Check out the other local Crumbl locations in Anderson, Mason, Oakley and West Chester.
Get Lucky
Celebrate the grand opening of Red Leprechaun Irish Pub at The Banks this Friday at The Banks, complete with a bar imported from Ireland.
Grand Opening Party
Friday, Oct. 6, 2 p.m.
20 West Freedom Way
Ribbon cutting ceremony at 2 p.m., doors open after ribbon cutting
JonJon from Kiss 107 broadcasts LIVE
The Bloody Tinth performs 7–10 p.m.
DJ Set by Fuseamania from 10 p.m.–2 a.m.
More at https://www.redleprechaun.com.
For Danny Scott, the Red Leprechaun is more than just another place to grab a drink.
“I was a longtime fan of Irish pubs and always dreamed of visiting Ireland,” says Scott, who also owns Fishbowl at The Banks. “When I traced my DNA and found that I have roots in Ireland and across the Celtic region more fuel was added to the fire to make Red Leprechaun happen.”
The new Irish Pub celebrates its grand opening this Friday, with a ribbon cutting, live music, and more.
The focal point of Red Leprechaun is an imported bar from Malahide, north of Dublin, that was built in 1957 and stood for 62 years until 2019.
“I crossed paths with my now-good-friend, Mick, from Kilbeggan Ireland,” says Scott. “Mick is in the bar/restaurant furniture and equipment business. I began the process of developing Red Leprechaun and was searching for distressed wood to build a bar top. He sent me pictures of the bar that he rescued from a pub called Oscar Taylor’s that had closed three years before. A week later I flew to Ireland and within minutes of seeing the bar I told Mick I wanted to bring the bar to Cincinnati.”
Scott bought the full bar and stained glass, and shipped it from Ireland for a 57-day journey to Cincinnati, before being refinished for the grand opening.
“Red Leprechaun is a traditional Irish pub with modern flair from our menu to the live entertainment with bands and acoustic music,” said Scott. “The pub marks another great location for sports fans and visitors to The Banks.”
Scott is partnering with Chef Brian Duffy to create the Irish-themed food menu. Duffy is known from his popular Spike TV series, “Bar Rescue” and appearances on Food Network’s “Beat Bobby Flay” and “The Today Show."
Red Leprechaun join 15 bars and restaurants at The Banks and will be part of the DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area).
“ ‘And never forget your new adopted home, Ireland’” was a closing line in an email from Mick weeks after the bar began its journey across the ocean,” says Scott. “His quote is on the wall with a picture of him below as a reminder.”
A Fair Meal
You can work up quite an appetite watching the best golfers in the world! Luckily the new Carlo & Johnny Pavilion by Jeff Ruby is up to the challenge at Queen City Championship.
New this year at the Kroger Queen City Championship presented by P&G, the Carlo & Johnny Pavilion by Jeff Ruby provides an elevated experience for golf fans. You’ll experience the same Jeff Ruby flair – both in design and in dishes.
Executive Chef Donny Hatton put together a rotating menu so that returning guests throughout the weekend can sample new bites each time. Signature dishes like shrimp cocktail and butter pie are served alongside Ruby classic-inspired dishes like Burrow mac and cheese an beef tenderloin sliders.
Patrons enjoy a perfect vantage point overlooking the water with a 360 degree view of world-class golf. A perfect complement to world class food.
Under the Sun
Grilling tips and drink ideas for the perfect end-of-summer party.
Did you just find out you’re going to a Labor Day party?
And you’re the host?
Fear not, we have expert advice to make preparing the food and drinks easier (and more fun) so you can relax and actually enjoy the long weekend.
We asked the director of culinary, Michael Elliott, to share a few tips on how to be the perfect grill master this weekend.
Check out his “behind the kitchen door” chef-inspired ideas.
Know your audience, who is coming to your event, are your guests adventurous?
What style of event are you planning? Will the main course be grilled, smoked, or BBQ?
Plan and write out your menu so it makes sense!
Go shopping! This is one of my favorite things to do, as you can explore the local grocery and find awesome ingredients to pair with your selections
Purchase quality products and your result will be enhanced
Don’t be scared to pair sweet with spicy, acidic with heat, or use fruits in your sauces.
Seasoning is key, from start to finish
Don’t be shy, season large cuts of meat with more than you think
Season at the end of the cooking process as well, to finish off the dish
Everyone has their favorite brands of seasoning; I always incorporate Salt and Pepper as it’s the base to all greatness!
Grilling Meats
Have a few sections of heat on your grill to ensure peak temperature is achieved
High heat to sear
Medium to finish
Smoking Meats
I always use a preferred rub and allow it to sit overnight in the fridge before going into the smoker
Temperature controls –Many new options that are digital to ensure consistent heat is maintained throughout the process
Sauce is optional to me. I feel if you did the processes above great, cherish the result without covering up all your hard work
BBQ
Many versions of this but my favorite is the Indirect Heat method
Basically, you are hanging meat above the coals or burning wood to get a non-direct heat source
Examples can be long bone in-ribeye steaks, sausages, or ribs
I prefer to use a stainless-steel meat hook to hang these offerings above the coals and allow them to slow cook and render their intermuscular marbling into the meat
At the end of the day, Labor Day is a national holiday and there is now better way to spend it with friends and family in the backyard producing a timeless tradition of “Grilling”
Of course you can’t just feed your guests – You need to mix up a little fun, too.
Who better than to share a few cocktail recipes than the bartenders from 4EG! Enjoy refreshing summer flavors guaranteed to help you beat the heat.
Charlemagne Problems (Killer Queen)
Tito's Handmade Vodka
Passionfruit
Vanilla
Lime
Splash of soda
Garnished with an edible flower
Pineapple Express (Rosedale OTR)
Ghost Tequila
Lime Juice
Pineapple Juice
Garnished with a lime
Joey's Juice (The Stretch)
Tito’s Handmade Vodka
Peach Schnapps
Orange Juice
Garnished with a lime
Big Red Machine (The Stretch)
Red Bull Red Edition (Watermelon)
Smirnoff Cherry Vodka
Game Changer
Do good to kick off football season when you Dine for 9.
Start Fall on the right foot and “do good” in the community when you Dine for 9.
The Joe Burrow Foundation has teamed up with restaurants in Athens, Ohio, Baton Rouge and Cincinnati for a fundraising initiative to support its efforts in overcoming food insecurity and support mental health initiatives in those communities.
On Saturday, Sept. 9, participating restaurants will donate 9% of their profits from sales to the Foundation By having lunch or dinner at a restaurant, fans can support the fundraising effort or by donating directly to “$9 for 9” at JoeBurrow.org on or around Sept. 9. The goal is to raise $600,000 through sales and donations.
Participating restaurants include
A Tavola
7022 Miami Ave., Madeira
Blinker’s Tavern
318 Greenup St., Covington
Council Oak
Hard Rock Casino, 1000 Broadway
Dewey’s
Multiple locations
Donato’s
Multiple locations
The Filson
25 E. Freedom Way
Fireside Pizza
773 E. McMillan St.
Ghost Baby
1314 Republic St.
Gold Star
Multiple locations
Good Plates
235 W. McMillan St.
Goose and Elder
1800 Race St.
The Gruff
129 E. Second St., Covington
Holy Grail Tavern & Grille
161 Joe Nuxhall Way
Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse
505 Vine St.
Killer Queen
180 E. Freedom Way
Lee’s Famous Recipe
Multiple locations
Longneck’s Sports Grill
1219 Frogtown Connector Road, Walton
Mita’s
501 Race St.
Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
Nation
Multiple locations
The Stretch
191 E. Freedom Way
Taglio
All Locations
Tortilleria Garcia
4200 Aero Drive, Mason
Tom & Chee
Multiple locations
See the list of all participating restaurants at joeburrow.org/#dine_for_9_c.
Funds raised from “Dine for 9” will be designated for the “Do Good” grants that support projects that develop new pathways for mental health protection and food insecurity that are sustainable and designed to have a lasting impact.
Cooking Something Up
Restaurants can sign up now to benefit Joe Burrow Foundation with Dine for Nine.
Joe Burrow’s ability to inspire people goes beyond the football field. One of the core principles of the Joe Burrow Foundation is that everyone has a responsibility to do good.
Dine for 9
Saturday, Sept. 9
See the list of participating restaurants at joeburrow.org/#dine_for_9_c.
To offer folks an easy way to give back to their community, the foundation is launching the “Dine for 9” fundraising initiative on Saturday, Sept. 9 to support efforts to overcome food insecurity in Athens, Ohio, Baton Rouge and Cincinnati.
Participating restaurants will donate 9% of their profits from sales on Sep. 9 to the Foundation. Interested in signing up? Restaurants who’d like to participate can register by Aug. 25.
Fans can support the fundraising effort by donating “$9 for 9” to the Joe Burrow Foundation at JoeBurrow.org on or around Sept. 9. The goal is to raise $600,000 through sales and donations.
Those funds raised from “Dine for 9” will be designated for the “Do Good” grants that support projects that develop new pathways for mental health protection and food insecurity that are sustainable and designed to have a lasting impact.
Birthday (Pan) Cake
Sleepy Bee Cafe celebrates the first anniversary of its College Hill location, with their signature pancakes, toppings and fun family activities.
Sleepy Bee College Hill 1st Birthday Party
Sunday, August 20, 1–4 p.m.
Sleepy Bee Cafe
5918 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45224
Chef will mix and flip pancakes in the courtyard, and you can decorate with your choice of toppings. A free activity will be available kids.
More at sleepybeecafe.com/locations/college-hill.
Free pancakes? Sign us up!
This Sunday, grab brunch at Sleepy Bee Cafe’s College Hill location. Then, join them in their courtyard for free pancakes and birthday fun.
The College Hill location is celebrating its 1st anniversary in the neighborhood and wants to give back to the community who’s supported them.
Sourcing from farms and suppliers nearby, Sleepy Bee’s owners have created a delicious, wholesome and satisfying menu. From the brand design and iconic flower chandeliers to the thoughtful creations served daily, every part of the restaurant experience was carefully curated to celebrate the sublime magic of bees.
They were quickly overwhelmed by the excitement and positive response the restaurant garnered. As its popularity grew, so did the number of restaurants across the area.
Today, Sleepy Bee is still locally-owned and a Cincinnati staple, with families and friends gathering daily to enjoy nourishing food in an environment that embraces the beauty of its community.
Forward Momentum
March First opens on Fountain Square, bringing their locally made beer, seltzer, cider and spirits to downtown, along with an inventive pub menu.
Looking for a new lunch spot downtown? Or a place to stop for a drink after work? We’ve got just the thing!
March First Cincinnati
10 Fountain Square Plaza
Grand Opening: Thursday, Aug. 10
Open: Sunday–Thursday, 11 a.m. – 11p.m
Friday & Saturday, 11 a.m.-12 a.m.
Menu and more details at www.marchfirstbrewing.com/cincinnati.
Local brewery March First opens its second location on Fountain Square.
March First’s downtown location has 23 brews on tap, including the crowd-favorite, Astra Red Cream Soda hard seltzer. You’ll also find a selection of bourbons from their own Cincinnati Distilling.
And we can’t forget the food. Classic American bar fare from mozzarella sticks, nachos, soft pretzels and cheese teams up with the unexpected. Don’t miss the Korean hot dog, served with garlic aioli, Korean ketchup, tamari glaze and stewed kimchi.
The Kemper Road location joins the celebration with their Ciderpalooza on Saturday, Aug. 12. Billed as “Cincinnati's biggest celebration of hard cider,” March First will roll out eight new cider flavors for the occasion: Watermelon Mojito, Nutella, Tiramisu, Kiwi Habanero, Pineapple Cidermosa, Grapefruit and Rosemary, Chocolate Banana and Raspberry Creamsicle.
Home Cooking
What's your favorite chili in town? Chance are it's at the chili parlor you find in your own neighborhood. We test that theory with a trip to Dixie Chili.
When you think Cincinnati, you think chili. But we want you to think beyond the big two chili chains.
So Cincinnati People is doing the legwork for you – visiting some off-the-beaten-path Cincinnati chili parlors to sample menu items that lie beyond the typical three-way.
Our first stop is, admittedly, a chain, but a smaller one. Newport is home to the original Dixie Chili, started by Nicholas Sarakatsannis in 1928. He perfected his own version of Greek chili after a brief stint working at Empress Chili in Cincinnati and turned it into the family business.
But Dixie didn’t stop at chili; the menu also features some unusual offerings. We had to sample the alligator – a cheese coney with a pickle spear and mayo. Dixie also offers deli sandwiches and the Chili Man dip, just like your favorite cream cheese, chili and cheddar-topped party dip, served with tortilla chips. And don’t forget the classic gyros, leaning on the Sarkatsannis family’s Greek roots. I know I won’t.
To quote Dixie Chili’s website, “Although Papa Nick didn’t invent what is now called Cincinnati-style chili, people who know chili believe he perfected it.” If you know, you know, apparently. During our visit, the line was out the door with regulars, patiently waiting for their made-to-order waffle fries and six-ways (with fresh garlic!), and enjoying their lunches in the ‘70s-style dining room.
You can enjoy Dixie Chili at any of its four NKY locations: Newport, Covington, Erlanger and Independence.
How Sweet It Is
It's here! Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream opens its first scoop shop in Cincinnati today! The Columbus-based retailer, famous for its unusual flavors and top-quality ingredients, brings the flavor to Factory 52. We've got the scoop.
Grand Opening – July 13
Jeni’s Scoop Shop
Factory 52, 2755 Park Ave.
From 7-11 p.m., Jeni’s is serving FREE scoops.
Daily hours: Noon – 11 p.m.
The first 50 people in line will get extra Jeni’s goodies!
More about Jeni’s at jenis.com.
What’s better than ice cream? FREE ice cream!
Columbus-based Jeni’s Ice Creams officially opens its first Cincinnati scoop shop on Thursday, July 13. They’ll be serving all the classics their customers love, including Brambleberry Crisp and Salty Caramel. Plus, they'll have the first of several summer flavors to arrive—High Five Candy Bar! Chock full of everything salty, sweet, gooey, and crunchy.
Though this is the first Jeni’s in the area, the ice creams aren’t completely new to the Cincinnati area.
You can find some of their best-selling flavors — like Brown Butter Almond Brittle and Gooey Butter Cake — by the pint at Kroger, Whole Foods Market, and Jungle Jim’s.
Champagne Problems
Celebrate with drinks (for all ages!) at The Banks.
With all the excitement around the Taylor Swift Eras Tour coming to Cincinnati, you might need a Swift drink.
Whether you’re looking for dinner before the show, how to spend some downtown on Saturday, or brunch on Sunday, The Banks is the center of #Swiftinnati.
On Friday and Saturday, Swift fans will be “Taygating” from noon to 7 p.m. at The Banks, where the merch trailer will be parked, plus there will be a friendship bracelet making station, a hair-braiding station, a glitter makeup station and multiple food trucks.
AC Marriott at The Banks
135 Joe Nuxhall Way
www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/cvgbc-ac-hotel-cincinnati-at-the-banks
Opens at 1 p.m.; All ages
Special Taylor Swift-themed cocktails, plus Taylor Swift photo moments throughout the hotel with cut outs and décor. Hotel guests will have a special in-room Taylor Swift-themed amenity whether they are going to the concert or not!
The Escape Game
28 Freedom Way
theescapegame.com/cincinnati/
Enjoy a 10% discount for games played from Friday through Monday (June 30 to July 3), with code is TSWIFT_10.
The Filson
25 E Freedom Way
thefilson.com
Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Drink specials available through July 2.)
Enjoy a Midnights-themed cocktail and mocktail!
Lavender Haze: Empress 1908 Indigo Gin, Lemon, and sparkling wine, $14
Anti-Hero: Lemon, Butterfly Pea Flower, and soda, $.10
Frost Factory
36 W. Freedom Way
www.letsgetfrosty.com/the-banks-menu
All ages
Enjoy a $1.50 off a Dora-cup sized drink when you show your ticket to concert. Find two themed cocktails – Lavender Haze and Saturn and Back – at the outdoor bar. The outdoor will also have bar will off water, soda Gatorade, seltzers and signature cocktails.
Jefferson Social
101 E. Freedom Way
jeffersonsocial.com
Hours: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday
21 and over
The patio grill will be open, with the kitchen is closed. They’ll have curbside/patio bars selling DORA and non-alcoholic drinks
Killer Queen
180 E. Freedom Way
www.killerqueenbar.com
Hours: Friday, 2 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.; Saturday, noon to 2:30 a.m.
21 and over
Find Taylor Swift-themed specials:
Lavender Haze (Empress gin and lemonade. Garnished with an edible flower), $10
Lover (Prosecco and edible glitter. Garnished with cotton candy), $12
Midnight Rain shot (El Jimador Reposado Tequila, blue curaçao, house fruit punch, and edible glitter.), $7
On Friday, DJ Diamond spins, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.; on Saturday, DJ Simo, from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
www.moerleinlagerhouse.com
Hours: Friday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
All ages
Taylor Swift Pregame Party and Karaoke sing-a-long
Friday, June 30 and Saturday, July 1, 3–6 p.m.
Specialty themed drinks and karaoke sing-a-long with DJ Dave, Cincinnati's Karaoke Master, playing all the hits and handing out prizes.
The outdoor Casa De Borrocho Street Taco stand and pizza stands will be open until 10 p.m., with dining available at Moerlein’s large outdoor beer garden.
Smale Riverfront Park
Pre-Taylor Swift Activities
June 30, 4 – 7 .pm.
Get ready for some fun before the Taylor Swift's concert begins. Visit Smale for free live music by Sweeney Rebellion, with food trucks available, including Wildside, Family Treats and Frostbites.
The Stretch
191 E. Freedom Way
www.thestretchcincy.com
Hours: Friday, 2 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.; Saturday, noon to 2:30 a.m.
21 and over
Taylor-themed specials:
Lavender Haze (Empress gin and lemonade), $10
Lemon Drops on My Guitar (Smirnoff Citrus Vodka, triple sec, lemonade, and edible glitter), $6.50
Meet Me at Midnight (Georgi Grape Vodka, blue curaçao, cranberry, and edible glitter), $6.50
Entertainment on Friday by K-Smuv, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Saturday with DJ Diamond, 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Taste of Belgium
16 West Freedom Way
authenticwaffle.com/locations
Hours: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
All ages
Themed drinks:
Lavender Haze – Empress Gin, floral, bright
Cruel Summer – Empress Gin, tropical
Wildest Dreams – lavender lemonade
With the regular menu available.
Tin Roof
160 E Freedom Way
tinroofcincinnati.com/
Hours: Friday, 11 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.; Saturday, 10:45 a.m. to 2:30 a.m.
21 and over, after 1 p.m.
Taylor Swift-inspired cocktails from High Bank Distillery. The DORA walk-up bar and beer tub sales on the patios.
Music on Friday, with DJ Kombat, playing a T. Swift inspired set, starting at 4 p.m. Party Down starts at 9 p.m. On Saturday DJ Kombat returns at 2 p.m., with Bill & Kara at 5 p.m., and Party Down at 9:30 p.m.
Eggs-ellent Timing
Cackleberry, a local food truck specializing in breakfast sandwiches, has a summer pop-up brunch series with Lost & Found OTR.
Ready for Breakfast?
Weekends only – Time and day subject to change when popping up at a local business or event.
Where will Cackleberry pop up this weekend? Head to their Instagram to find out.
More at www.eatcackleberry.com
When a business says it has the “Best Breakfast Sandwich in Cincinnati”, you might roll your eyes and think to yourself “Suuuure ya do.”
But Cackleberry’s fans, friends and weekend sell outs (within hours of opening!) prove that statement to be true, over and over again.
Spam in a breakfast sandwich? Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve try it!
The craft breakfast sandwich kitchen pops up in a different location each weekend, serving up six different “sammies” ranging from “Benny” - hickory smoked bacon, local pasture raised over medium egg, sharp cheddar cheese, caramelized onion and chipotle ketchup in a warm brioche bun to “Lola” –crisp spam, local pasture-raised soft tamagoyaki-style eggs (Japanese rolled omelet), chives and Sriracha mayo in a warm brioche bunto; “Mila”–local pasture raised over medium egg, avocado, arugula microgreens, everything cream cheese and romesco sauce in a warm brioche bun, and a few more delicious bites.
The idea, born from a love of the breakfast sandwich by China and Nate Kautz.
For the Love of the Sandwich
After many years of dreaming and scheming, the pair found a 1968 trailer, revamped it, and now tow it around Cincy to sling breakfast sammies to the Cackleberry faithful.
Foodie fans snag them fast, so, if you’re planning on popping by, get there early.