Are You Ready to Eat?
By Jason Gargano
Welcome to CityBeat’s annual Dining Guide, a roundup of great restaurants in Greater Cincinnati. Following the tradition that started in 2005, rather than serving up a comprehensive, A-to-Z list of more than 900 places to get eats in the Queen City, we’ve created a list of 270-plus restaurants that are worthy of your investigation — from old favorites to new kids on the block, from chic upscale establishments to no-frills, homestyle joints. New this year are features called the Ultimate Progressive Meal, in which each of our dining writers — Lora Arduser, Brian Cross, Anne Mitchell and Contributing Dining Editor Heather Smith — were asked to choose at least three courses from different restaurants in town to create their own “dream” meal.
Cool and Copacetic
A fantasy meal for the (barely) working man on a budget
By Brian Cross
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Given my status as a college student, supporting myself by working three days a week at a part-time job, I don’t have the time or money to try many of the upscale dining spots Cincinnati has to offer. So consider this the fantasy meal for the working (er, barely working) man. |
High on the Hill
Mount Adams yields a fantasy meal of orgiastic proportions
By Heather Smith
If I were about ready to die or, better yet, just leaving town for a bit, the following would be my ideal last meal in Cincinnati. First, I’d choose Mount Adams, because I live there and because its history of drunks and monks appeals to both sides of my nature.
Totally Authentic
Eating progressively — and very well — in Oakley
By Anne Mitchell
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Hugo’s tiny, savory corn fritters ($9) are the perfect first course for our Taste of Oakley. Hugo’s slant on Southern cuisine is sophisticated but totally approachable, and the bar area offers a comfortable spot to share a starter without committing to three courses. |
Eastern Nourishment
Asian-based cuisine hits the progressive meal spot
By Lora Arduser
My fantasy progressive meal is actually for my friend, who is in a constant search for good Chinese in this town. While my dinner isn’t straight Chinese, I think the Asian-based theme fits the bill for her fantasy meal. We start with Cilantro’s Cold Rolls.
Why We Love Restaurants
By John FoxRestaurants serve important functions in society in addition to serving us food. We celebrate the big moments of our lives in restaurants, from birthdays and new jobs to wedding receptions and anniversaries. Getting dressed up, spending money and being treated well at a top-notch restaurant makes any special occasion more special.
