Review website Yelp recently named a downtown Cincinnati restaurant as one of the 25 best new restaurants in the United States.
Court Street Kitchen opened on Court Street in February 2024 with a menu of New American fare like steaks, seafood and house-made pastas. It was the first self-created concept from restaurateur Braheam Shteiwi, who also owns Caruso’s Ristorante & Bar in Fairfield.
This month, Court Street Kitchen made Yelp’s “Best New Restaurants 2025” list, which features 25 of the top-rated new restaurants. Yelp says the list features places that are setting culinary trends across the country with innovative, chef-driven menus and creative experiences. Data comes from Yelp reviews.
“The eclectic New American cuisine here is as varied as it is acclaimed. Favorites like steak or grilled Branzino with tapenade share the menu with ‘must-haves’ like Italian arancini, Peruvian ceviche with amarillo and tuna, and “amazing” homemade aragosta (lobster-style) pasta,” Kathy Passero writes of Court Street Kitchen.
Shteiwi says his restaurant’s menu is a culmination of dishes he’s enjoyed throughout his hospitality career and travels, as well as favorites from his parents’ restaurants. Passero also notes Court Street Kitchen’s lively atmosphere and that Executive Head Chef Nott Khonsue’s background in Japanese cuisine adds another layer to the culinary offerings.
“We’re truly honored to be recognized among some of the country’s finest restaurants,” Shteiwi told CityBeat. “Whether it’s our dishes, service, the ambience or programming, our team works tirelessly to give every one of our guests the best experience possible. To see that dedication reflected in the collective opinion of one of the nation’s most discerning platforms is incredibly rewarding. We proudly dedicate this distinction — #8 in the country and #1 in Ohio — to our guests, whose energy, loyalty, and friendship continue to fill our dining rooms, enliven our patio, and inspire us every single day. They are truly the ‘Best Guests in Town.'”
Court Street Kitchen and Cincinnati appeared on the list alongside new restaurants from other culinary powerhouse cities like Hed 11 and Caché in San Francisco; La Serre, Daebak and Butcher and the Bear in Chicago; San Sabino, The Corner Store and Theodora in New York City; and Holy Basil in Los Angeles. You can see the full list here.
Court Street Kitchen, 9 E. Court St., Downtown. More info: courtstreetkitchen.com.