Top 10 Restaurants in Cincinnati: Local Favourites for 2025

Cincinnati's culinary scene is having a moment. From iconic local institutions that have been serving comfort food for decades to exciting new restaurants earning national recognition, the Queen City offers an incredible dining experience that perfectly balances tradition with innovation. Whether you're a lifelong local or visiting for the first time, these ten restaurants represent the best of what Cincinnati has to offer in 2025.

1. The Aperture (Mediterranean)

The Aperture has taken Cincinnati by storm since opening in 2024, earning a coveted spot on The New York Times' "Best Restaurants in America" list. This Mediterranean gem operates out of a stunning Art Deco space and has already become a ritual destination for locals who appreciate its sophisticated approach to Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant's "firm grasp" on flavours and elegant presentation makes it perfect for special occasions or impressing out-of-town guests.

Perfect for: Date nights, business dinners, special celebrations

2. Skyline Chili (Cincinnati Institution)

No Cincinnati restaurant list would be complete without Skyline Chili, the city's most iconic culinary institution. Founded in 1949, this local chain serves Cincinnati's famous chili,  a unique blend of spices served over spaghetti that's completely different from traditional chili. Order a "three-way" (chili, spaghetti, and cheese) or go all out with a "five-way" (add onions and beans). It's polarising to outsiders but beloved by locals, and trying it is a true Cincinnati rite of passage.

Perfect for: First-time visitors, casual meals, experiencing true Cincinnati culture

3. Five on Vine (Contemporary American)

Five on Vine has been winning hearts with its nostalgic yet refined approach to comfort food. Their beef stroganoff is particularly noteworthy, bringing back childhood memories while satisfying grown-up palates. The restaurant excels at taking familiar dishes and elevating them with sophisticated techniques and high-quality ingredients.

Perfect for: Comfort food lovers, romantic dinners, rediscovering classic dishes

4. Phoenician Taverna (Mediterranean)

Phoenician Taverna transforms Mediterranean dining into an art form, offering new twists on old favourites with a passion for excellence that turns every meal into a feast. The restaurant's commitment to authentic flavours and generous portions makes it a standout in Cincinnati's growing Mediterranean scene.

Perfect for: Group dinners, Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts, hearty meals

5. Cafe Mediterranean (Mediterranean)

Known for its commitment to quality and simplicity, Cafe Mediterranean serves truly authentic Mediterranean food that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful. Every dish is made fresh and served fast, making it an excellent choice for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners. The food bursts with flavour and nutrition, representing the best of Mediterranean cooking traditions.

Perfect for: Health-conscious diners, lunch meetings, authentic Mediterranean experience

6. Graeter's Ice Cream (Dessert/Local Institution)

While technically not a restaurant, Graeter's is a Cincinnati institution that deserves a spot on any food lover's list. This local ice cream chain has been serving handcrafted ice cream since 1870, famous for its unique French Pot process that creates incredibly rich, dense ice cream. Their Black Raspberry Chip is legendary, and in 2025, they even collaborated with Skyline Chili to create a limited-edition Skyline Spice flavour.

Perfect for: Dessert, family outings, experiencing Cincinnati's sweet side

7. LaRosa's Pizza (Cincinnati-Style Pizza)

LaRosa's has been a Cincinnati favourite since 1954, serving the city's distinctive style of pizza with a thin, crispy crust and sweet sauce. The restaurant offers a perfect introduction to Cincinnati's unique pizza culture, and their provolone cheese blend creates a flavour profile you won't find anywhere else. It's casual, family-friendly, and quintessentially Cincinnati.

Perfect for: Families, casual dining, pizza lovers wanting to try Cincinnati-style

8. Montgomery Inn (Barbecue)

The Montgomery Inn has been Cincinnati's barbecue royalty since 1951, famous for their "legendary" ribs and signature sauce. This local institution has hosted celebrities and politicians while maintaining its down-to-earth charm. Their ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, and the atmosphere perfectly captures Cincinnati's friendly, welcoming spirit.

Perfect for: Barbecue lovers, celebrating local traditions, hearty appetites

9. Taste of Belgium (Belgian Waffles & More)

Taste of Belgium brings authentic Belgian flavors to Cincinnati with their incredible waffles, both sweet and savoury. Founded by a Belgian immigrant, the restaurant offers everything from traditional Liege waffles to Belgian-inspired brunch dishes. Their commitment to authenticity and quality has made them a local favourite for breakfast, brunch, and casual dining.

Perfect for: Brunch lovers, breakfast meetings, a unique Belgian experience

10. Izzy's (Deli)

Izzy's represents Cincinnati's Jewish deli tradition with oversized sandwiches and authentic flavours. This local institution serves up classic deli fare with generous portions and a no-frills attitude that locals love. Their pastrami and corned beef are legendary, and the restaurant maintains the authentic deli experience that's becoming increasingly rare.

Perfect for: Deli enthusiasts, hearty lunches, authentic Jewish deli experience

Why These Restaurants Matter

Cincinnati's restaurant scene in 2025 tells the story of a city that honours its culinary traditions while embracing innovation. From the Mediterranean sophistication of The Aperture to the unapologetic local pride of Skyline Chili, these restaurants represent the diverse tastes and values that make Cincinnati special.

The city's food culture is built on comfort, community, and authenticity. Local institutions like Skyline Chili and Graeter's have created flavours that are uniquely Cincinnati, while newer restaurants like The Aperture prove that the city can compete on a national level. Together, they create a dining landscape that's both comforting and exciting.

Insider Tips for Dining in Cincinnati

For Locals: Don't sleep on the newer restaurants gaining national attention. Places like The Aperture are putting Cincinnati on the culinary map and deserve support from the community that's made them possible.

For Tourists: Embrace the local specialities, even if they seem unusual. Cincinnati chili might be different from what you expect, but it's an authentic taste of the city's character. Similarly, try the local pizza and ice cream – they're part of what makes Cincinnati unique.

For Everyone: Many of these restaurants get busy, especially on weekends. Make reservations where possible, and don't be afraid to ask servers for recommendations. Cincinnati's hospitality extends to its restaurants, and the staff are usually happy to help you navigate the menu.

Cincinnati's dining scene in 2025 proves that the city has something for everyone, whether you're craving cutting-edge Mediterranean cuisine or a classic three-way chili. These ten restaurants represent the best of what the Queen City has to offer, a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and that famous Midwestern hospitality that makes every meal memorable.