Friends Pho-Ever
Now in its 13th year, Asian Food Fest returns to the Court Street Plaza April 27-28 for a celebration of Asian culture and cuisine.
Asian Food Fest
Court Street Plaza
Saturday, April 27, 11 a.m.– 10 p.m.
Sunday, April 28, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
More at asianfoodfest.org.
It’s lucky number 13 for Asian Food Fest! The two-day food extravaganza returns to the downtown Cincinnati this weekend.
Asian Food Fest, presented by Kroger and Procter & Gamble, and produced by the Cincinnati Regional Chamber in partnership with Asianati, is the region’s largest celebration of Asian food and culture. This year marks the largest festival in the event’s history, with 55 restaurants and food trucks and eight “Secret Menu” options.
The entertainment includes comedy, cultural activities, and karaoke, with more than 100 performers and entertainers across the two-day event.
The Asian Food Fest karaoke contest, in its second year, is open to the public in hopes of crowning the “Best Karaoke Performance of 2024” winner.
All-day, family friendly programming will be held in the Community Tent presented by Kroger, with chopstick lessons and Chinese print stamps from GCCCEA; coloring sheets, dribble game, and giveaways with FCC; and Manga Manga coloring pages.
The Cultural Connection by 5/3, In collaboration with the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, will have storytelling, Indian block painting, and a mask decorating craft.
The fun also includes giant outdoor games — giant Jenga, Connect 4, cornhole, plus chalk art and origami.
Through food, music, and community outreach, Asian Food Fest is brings together the Asian communities in the region for a cultural experience like no other.
Drink in the Sunshine
Grab a cold one! Summerfair has teamed up with HighGrain Brewing for a new brew, available just in time for summer.
Summerfair Cincinnati Poster Reveal
Thursday, April 25, 6 to 8 p.m.
HighGrain Brewing, 6860 Plainfield Road
Release and artist signing of the 2024 Summerfair commemorative poster, along the new seasonal beer and music from the Faux Frenchmen.
Details at www.summerfair.org.
Get ready for summer!
The commemorative poster for this year's Summerfair Cincinnati will be revealed during a special celebration on Thursday, April 25. Along with the new poster, a new seasonal beer, specially created for Summerfair, will also make its debut that night.
This year’s poster was created by Anne Shannon, a Cincinnati-based graphic designer with more than 25 years of experience. She enjoys new challenges and collaborating with other professionals, bringing order, light, and creativity to her work. Shannon also designed the 2020 Summerfair poster.
She will be at HighGrain, signing copies of the commemorative poster during the event.
The evening also includes music from the Faux Frenchmen, who are also performing at Summerfair this year.
The new beer from HighGrain is perfect for summer, with notes of citrus in a light and refreshing brew. The can features elements of the poster designed by Shannon. The beer will be available on tap and in cans at HighGrain, as well as at Summerfair.
Summerfair will be held at Coney Island from Friday, May 31 through Sunday, June 2. Advance tickets are on sale now at summerfair.org, with one-day ($10) or multi-day tickets ($15) tickets available. Children 12 and under admitted free.
Hello Darkness
Glasses? Check. Snacks? Check. We've got dos and donts plus inside tips to make your eclipse viewing safe and fun, no matter what you're plans are.
Do your party plans on Monday include serving Eclipse gum, Moon Pies, and Sun Chips? Then no one is going to want to come to your party.
Luckily, you’ll find well-timed, eclipse-themed treats.
To celebrate this astronomical event, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has created “out-of-this-world flavors.”
The Punk Stargonaut collection is inspired by a fictional flight through the galaxy with:
Cosmic Bloom – A tropical delicacy! Citrusy like a mandarin, refreshing like a kiwi, and punchy like passion fruit.
Nebula Berry – Tart like a blueberry and vibrant like a raspberry with an elderflower fragrance.
Purple Star Born – Reminiscent of Concord grape and puckery-like blackcurrants.
Supermoon – Tastes like candied violet and marshmallows.
If the dark of the moon has you longing for dark chocolate, Aglamesis Bro’s has eclipse-themed candy. The Oreo Eclipse is an Oreo on a stick dipped in dark chocolate and topped with a white chocolate disk. The Eclipse Pecande offers pecans draped in layers of rich caramel, white chocolate and dark chocolate.
Because no holiday is complete without a themed cookie from Busken, pick up an Original Iced Eclipse Cookie. Perfect for group viewing, you can pick up a box of 10 (individually wrapped) cookies in Busken shops.
The cookies are made with yellow cookie dough and chocolate icing, then topped with a “galactic finish.”
The collection of local sweet treats guarantees your eclipse viewing will be out of this world!
Up to the Plate
New menu items make dining at a Reds' game a walk in the park.
We all love peanuts and Cracker Jacks at a baseball game.
Also nachos are pretty good and hot dogs. Can’t forget about ice cream.
While the old favorites are well represented at Great American Ball Park, each year the Reds unveil a new lineup of treats. And it falls on the dedicated and hard-working staff of Cincinnati People to test those for you, the people.
NEW BALLPARK FAVORITES
Step Up to the Plate
From traditional ballpark fare and local Cincinnati favorites to special creations, new items for 2024 include:
Glier’s Goetta Sliders: Glier’s original goetta, topped with American cheese, crispy onions, pickles and habanero hot pepper bacon jam. Served on potato slider rolls.
Bratter Up: Grilled and skewered Glier’s bratwurst, topped with American cheese, bacon and signature sauce.
Smoker Nachos: Nacho chips topped with Montgomery Inn pulled chicken or pork, queso cheese, pickled jalapenos, onions, cucumbers and a jalapeño crema sauce.
Brisket & Cheese Hoagie: Montgomery Inn smoked brisket, topped with peppers, onions, banana peppers, queso cheese and barbeque sauce. Served on a potato sub roll. Available at the Montgomery Inn Smokehouse.
Hempler’s Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage: Grilled jalapeno cheddar sausage, topped with ballpark kraut and mustard and served on a toasted pretzel bun.
Skyline Nacho Helmet: Nacho chips topped with Skyline Chili and shredded cheese served in a souvenir Reds helmet. (Debuted in 2023…back by popular demand)
For a complete list, including the Beer Finder and gluten-free options, visit reds.com/Food or the Concessions Finder on the MLB Ballpark app.
Several of our faves, including that cookie, are available in GABP’s new “Food Hub” – a grab ‘n go marketplace on the third base concourse. The Food Hub features concession stands from Penn Station, Wings and Rings and LaRosa’s plus hot dogs, snacks and drink coolers. You’ll also find 32 self-service checkouts for faster and more efficient transactions, so you can get back to watching the game.
“We worked closely with the Reds during the offseason to evaluate and enhance every element of the fan experience, implementing changes that will allow fans to spend more time in their seats cheering on the Reds,” said Andy Worden, Delaware North’s general manager at the ballpark. “We are excited to welcome fans back to Great American Ball Park and see the new offerings for the 2024 season.”
The all-inclusive Lexus Diamond Club has been completely redesigned to incorporate a modern aesthetic and enhanced experience. Indoor seating in the climate-controlled club has been expanded to comfortably accommodate guests with access to premium food stations and a fully stocked bar plus a candy wall, gelato bar and ice cream stand. Other new amenities include a 100-inch TV behind the bar and a merchandise kiosk exclusive to the Diamond Club featuring Full-Turn Apparel polos and quarter-zips.
Othere updates beyond food and beverage include improvements to the Fan Zone Fan Accommodations Station featuring stroller parking. The new TriHealth Fan Accommodations Station in the First Star Fan Zone features guest-relations personnel assisting with any questions, comments or concerns that fans might have. Also new is stroller parking inside the Fan Accommodations Station. Complimentary certificates to commemorate a first game, great catch, birthday or anniversary are available in the Fan Zone and at the additional Fan Accommodation Stations behind Sections 119 and 420.
Shopping for new gear? Delaware North is implementing Exo Checkout technology at the main Reds Team Shop on Crosley Terrace. The checkout process features RFID-enabled technology that quickly scans all items a fan places in the checkout station. The checkout process has been further enhanced with the addition of RetailCloud self-service stations, providing a streamlined experience and reducing time spent waiting to purchase merchandise.
Need things to be even easier? Fans sitting in the Lexus Diamond Club, Boone County Bourbon Press Club and the luxury suites can order Reds merchandise from the Team Shop and have the items delivered directly to their seat.
Bubbling Up
"Hi, Barbie! Wanna come over for a girls' night?" It will be more fun than even with Issa Rae's new prosecco, now available at Kroger.
Viarae 75
Shake 1 oz vodka, .5 oz lemon juice and .5 oz simple syrup and drain into a champagne flute. Top with 3 oz. of Viarae Prosecco and garnish with a lemon twist.
Cincinnati got a visit from President Barbie this week, as Emmy- and Golden Globe-nominated actor, producer and writer Issa Rae, added a new title to her impressive resume: vintner.
Rae visited Kroger On The Rhine to promote her new wine, Viarae Prosecco D.O.C., now available at local Kroger stores.
Prosecco has long been a favorite of Rae’s, and fans of her hit Insecure know that her on-screen character, Issa Dee, also had a penchant for sparkling wine. She says that so many fans and friends asked for recommendations that she decided to create her own.
Viarae Prosecco is described as a crisp and bright sparkling white wine, with notes of florals and fresh fruits. It’s made with 100% Glera grapes grown in Northern Italian vineyards near Treviso by the La Marca collaborative, a group that knows a thing or two about Prosecco.
At the Kroger event, Rae took photos with fans as her Viarae Prosecco was served solo, as well as in several cocktails. One of the most popular with the crowd was the Viarae 75, her take on the French 75.
Rae is the second celebrity wine creator who has made a stop at Kroger On The Rhine, after Cincinnati native Sarah Jessica Parker debuted her Invivo X, SJP in 2022.
Viarae Prosecco is available now at Kroger and Target stores.
Cherries Jubilee
Ohio may be The Mother of Presidents, but Indiana offers the best way to spend Presidents Day, with Cherrry Thing-a-lings from Schmidt Bakery.
Cherry Thing-A-Ling
Friday–Sunday, Feb.16–18, 4 a.m. to 6p.m.
Schmidt Bakery
125 Batesville Shopping Village
Batesville, IN
Details at Schmidt Bakery.
To the untrained eye, they might look like buffalo wings, but to Tristate residents, those scarlet-colored fried lumps of dough can only mean one thing – It’s Cherry-Thing-A-Ling time!
Every year–for too many delicious years to count–on the weekend before President’s Day, Schmidt Bakery sells the deep-fried donuts, packed with fresh cherries, and smothered in a sugary cherry glaze.
Every single one is made by hand. You can taste the love and attention put into them.
The tiny bakery bustles with customers whose average order is typically around three to four boxes. Many people buy for friends, family, and neighbors, and take multiple trips to their car to secure the goods for their long drive to their destination.
According to Thing-a-Ling history, this special treat was developed in the early ‘70s by the bakery’s founder, Clem.
Originally only made on the Sunday before President’s Day, the Thing-a-Ling became so popular treat the small bakery had to add more days. They now make the sweet treats every day for five days – from Thursday through President’s Day Monday. Last year, the bakery sold a record number – 232,380!
Secret Sauce
If you thought Valentine's Day was the big holiday this week, think again! What are your plans for National Tartar Sauce Day? Frisch's has the perfect way to celebrate this this homegrown holiday!
It’s been a big week for celebrations – Mardi Gras, Valentine’s Day and now National Tartar Sauce Day.
Celebrated on the first Friday of Lent (so Feb. 16 this year), National Tartar Sauce Day was founded by Frisch’s in 2017 to honor the tangy sauce that has is much more than a topping for fried fish. Have you tried it with French fries?
TARTAR SAUCE
A TIMELINE
17th Century
The French Tartar
France recreates the original tartar sauce by using mayonnaise.19th Century
Tartar Sauce in Western Europe
Tartar sauce is adopted in European cuisine.1920s
Commercial Tartar Sauce
Tartar Sauce is commercially sold in jars.1984
Tasty Beginnings
Chef Tachibe adds tartar sauce to dishes.2017
A Day for Tartar Sauce
National Tartar Sauce Day is created.
– nationaltoday.com
Samuel Frisch opened the first Frisch's cafe in 1905 in Cincinnati. In 1923, son Dave Frisch took over operations with two of his siblings after his father's death. Then in 1946, Dave Frisch sampled the first Big Boy double-decker hamburger. In what proved to be a momentous decision, Dave Frisch made the Big Boy sandwich using his homemade tartar sauce to replace the original recipe that called for Thousand Island dressing. Dave’s signature tartar sauce becomes a staple on Frisch’s menu. It has been sold in pint jars for the take-home market since 1960.
During Lent, Frisch’s tartar sauce is in high demand for its Frisch Fry menu and specials, available throughout the season.
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.