Traveling to Ohio? There’s a good chance you’re visiting for a big game. Soccer lovers are there for FC Cincinnati Major League Soccer, baseball lovers are there for the Cincinnati Reds, and football lovers are there for the Cincinnati Bengals. The city is an economic powerhouse for the state of Ohio, driven in part by those three teams. But you’re probably wondering where you should eat when you’re on your way to or from one of those important games. These are our best recommendations if you are in the great city of Cincinnati!
- Head over to Graeter for some baked goods or fresh ice cream, all handmade to delightful perfection. Cincinnati residents have made this establishment a tradition when returning to the city, and for good reason: you won’t find Oprah Winfrey’s favorite flavor of ice cream anywhere else. Try the black raspberry chocolate chip.
- You might be in the mood for a “manly” food after experiencing a game of football or baseball. Head over to Ted and Matula Gregory’s Montgomery Inn for some of the best ribs you’ve ever experienced. The Inn is routinely called “the Ribs King” by area reviewers and even some foreign critics. You’ve never had ribs as good as these.
- Maybe you’d prefer pizza? LaRosa’s is a small Cincinnati-based chain that has been in business since 1954 — and the owners have learned a thing or two about how to make the perfect pie since then. You might notice that these pizzas are slightly sweeter than those you’re accustomed to. LaRosa’s was once known as “Papa Gino’s” before changing its name.
- For dessert, you need to try The BonBonerie’s opera cream torte — a chocolate lover’s double-decker cake stuffed with vanilla cream. Not that we condone spoiling your appetite, but there’s nothing wrong with enjoying The BonBonerie’s menu on an empty stomach. They also have a cafe menu for those who are interested in sitting down for a quiet snack with coffee or tea.
- Avril-Bleh is a meat market that has been perfecting the art of the exquisite cut for over a century (since 1894). Even if you’re not a meat lover — they have 30 different kinds of sausages — this is a great place to visit for sightseeing. You can find metts from Avril-Bleh at other nearby restaurants as well.
- On your way to breakfast? You could visit a local diner for a cheap meal, but there are better options available. Check out Taste of Belgium for, you guessed it, the best Belgium waffles you’ve ever had. The restaurant even uses a real Belgium press to make them. The francophiles among us will likely want to visit Taste of Belgium’s crepe station. The restaurant also offers dinner (and beer).
