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Quick Jump Links to Neighborhoods: Central Core | Northern Kentucky | East | West | North
CENTRAL CORE
Andy’s Mediterranean Grille
906 Nassau St., Walnut Hills, 513-281-9791
Though it would be hard to “come to Andy’s” without indulging in the mouth-watering Lebanese cuisine, some do. Featuring a full-bar and a live DJ on Saturday nights, special drink prices during the week, including half-price drinks after 9 p.m. on Mondays, Andy’s is hopping with a small and young crowd on weekend nights. And going to Andy’s would not be complete without the “show” – stop by and talk to the place’s owner, Andy Hajjar, whose image smoking a hookah is on the bar’s logo. Look for the bald head. (Joe Wessels)
Amenities: Hookahs; outdoor enclosed patio; live DJ on Saturdays
AliveOne
941 Pavilion St., Mount Adams, 513-721-6977
Finding a parking space is tough in Mount Adams when the nightlife is in full swing, but AliveOne is worth the effort. The stout of heart are rewarded with a rich selection of ales, wines and liquor. It’s also a kickin’ place for singles to hang thanks to an eclectic jukebox peppered with alternative rock. Arrive before the sun sets and you’ll be rewarded with a more intimate experience. (Stephen Carter-Novotni)
Amenities: Pool tables; jukebox; TVs
Arlin’s
307 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, 513-751-6566
The first thing I noticed about Arlin’s was the hometown pub feel it gave me; the second thing I noticed was the way the people brought that feeling to the table with everything from the drinks to the excellent but simple pub food. It’s a perfect hang out when you want to have a break from the typical college atmosphere and want to mix it up. There’s homemade jewelry being sold from behind the bar, and when I inquired about who makes it, I found that one of their very own bartenders crafts the unique jewelry. In the heart of Clifton’s art district, an appreciation of the local artists is always a way to make someone feel at home. (Kelly Grant)
Amenities: Pool table; jukebox; electronic dart board; WiFi
Arnold’s Bar and Grill
210 E. Eighth St., Downtown, 513-421-6234
A fixture for nearly 150 years, Arnold’s is the heart and soul of a downtown establishment scene that’s seen ups and downs. The old-world wood furnishings, eclectic ephemera and ornate bar bring to mind many a London pub, as does the well-stocked selection of spirits, beers and elixirs fitting of a joint that used to house gin in the upstairs bathtub. (The tub still sits in its original spot.) Arnold’s also serves a nice selection of reasonably priced food (the Eggplant Marinara is stellar) and hosts live music (typically of an Irish and/or singer-songwriter bent) on the outdoor patio multiple nights a week. Looking for a unique spot to take an out-of-town friend? Arnold’s is the place. (Jason Gargano)
Amenities: Live music; outdoor patio; full menu
Baba Budan’s
239 W. McMillan St., Clifton Heights, 513-221-1911
Baba Budan’s continues to give some of the more prominent Clifton coffeeshops a run for their money. Not because of quality (although that always plays a part) but because of diversity in what they offer. They hand their customers a wide range of healthy foods, carefully constructed for a discriminating palette, as well as a full bar for coffee and adult beverages. It’s in a perfect location – within walking distance of UC and a few surrounding areas. It’s perfect for studying or hanging out and then manages to transform itself seamlessly into an excellent place to hear live music and have a few brews. I enjoyed watching people smile at some of the goofy pictures of regulars on the Polaroid wall. (KG)
Amenities: Live music; art from local artists; WiFi
Bang
314 W. Fourth St., Downtown, 513-651-2264
A serious class act, Bang is ostensibly for the Cincinnati young professional elite that likes to throw back a cocktail (or four) after hours. Lined with plush booths reserved exclusively for the big-spender, complimented with your own personal bottle of liquor and mixers, Bang exudes a highly cosmopolitan aura: The bartenders are all svelte and clad in black, the bar maids delicately traipse about in tight-fitted red dresses and the décor is probably more expensive than my consolidated student loans. Bang can even boast a celebrity clientele, hosting a night with MTV Jackass’ Steve-O on a recent Friday evening. (Ryan McLendon)
Amenities: Dancing; red carpet appeal
Below Zero Lounge
1122 Walnut St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-421-9376
You’re missing out if you have yet to visit Below Zero Lounge. This chic spot serves up the best cocktails and always seems to be hosting the best parties. Bar-height dining tables off to one side are a good place to catch up with friends, or try their plush seating in the back of the bar. Go at different times to experience a different bar – stop in for happy hour and have a friendly chat with the bartender. Or head here late night to meet an eclectic group of people who bring a unique vibe to the downtown hot spot. I’ve often stopped in just for one drink and ended up staying much later. If that’s the case for you, order from their limited menu, including chips and salsa, cheese plate and cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory. (Christine Mersch)
Amenities: Live music; jukebox; light-fare menu
Blind Lemon
936 Hatch St., Mount Adams, 513-241-3885
Nestled nicely between Mount Adams Bar and Grill and Daveed’s at 934, this cozy 40-year-old mainstay is the perfect post-dining pit stop. The narrow stone walkway that leads to the entry brings to mind something out of The Hobbit. And that’s before you’re even inside. The two compact dining areas share a fireplace and feature low ceilings, small wooden tables and enough unique charm to power a hundred less classy nightspots. The place is a Bilbo Baggins dream come true. It also features an impressive presidential campaign paraphernalia collection that dates back to before even John McCain was born and a spacious patio area that plays host to a variety of local singer/songwriter types. (JG)
Amenities: Live music, large patio area
Blue Wisp Jazz Club
318 E. Eighth St., Downtown, 513-241-9477
This widely renowned Cincinnati institution has survived various incarnations to remain a unique destination for nearly 30 years now. New ownership took over last fall, but The Wisp’s commitment remains the same: live Jazz seven nights a week. The vibe is appropriately low-key: small candles on each of the club’s many tables complement deep-blue walls and muted lighting. (On a surreal note, a smoke-free Jazz club is a bit of an oxymoron, but the times they are a changin’.) A recent Wednesday-night stop revealed a diverse crowd – from younger couples to old-school Jazz heads – all nodding to the sumptuous sounds of the Blue Wisp Big Band. (JG)
Amenities: Live music seven days a week
Bogart’s
2621 Vine St., Corryville, 513-872-8801
Not so much a bar as a concert venue that also serves drinks, this large and dark hall is a veritable institution on Short Vine – once Cincinnati’s funkiest street – and basically serves as our version of New York’s classic CBGB’s. Almost everyone who loves seeing rock bands perform live probably has a story or two to tell about their experiences at Bogart’s. Mine involves the time in the early 1990s when I was backstage looking for the opening act for an interview when I bumped into Divinyls lead singer Christina Amphlett, who was walking around in a black teddy. She looked at me and said, “Ello, luv.” Have your own adventures as you search for the bathrooms in the basement. (Kevin Osborne)
Amenities: Live music
Boomerang’s
4501 Vine St., St. Bernard, 513-242-414
A quaint little corner pub, Boomerang’s must have gotten its name from its unique ability to keep bringing people back. To that end, though, it’s painfully obvious when newcomers stroll in. I think even the cover band stopped playing to check me and my friends out. “Who are these guys,” I literally heard. Oh well. Chances are, if you know Boomerang’s, you’re already on the inside and can fit right in among the college banners and hockey jerseys hanging around. I just felt more comfortable next to the Barney Fife poster when I was there. (Rodger Pille)
Amenities: Live music, pool table, TVs, grab game
Boswell Alley
1686 Blue Rock Road, Northside, 513-681-8100
When I walked into Boswell Alley, the house was packed. It was a noticeable change from the normal Clifton/Northside crowd. There was a solo musician playing loud, and playing passionately, and I thought to myself, “Here is a place you can slow down and grab some down home food and music.” It was a change from the college-age group I found in every other local bar I surveyed in the area, but Boswell Alley holds its own with a great sound and feel that you don’t find often enough in Cincinnati. (KG)
Amenities: Live music; TVs; jukebox
Brew House
1047 E. McMillan St., Walnut Hills, 513-961-9058
This is the kind of bar where you might find a Punk Rock kid watching a Big Band act. When I went there I overheard a couple kicking around music theory and how different songs affect their moods. It’s a casual, multicultural intersection tucked away in Walnut Hills. The theme here is simplicity and comfort. It’s a formula that serves its diverse patronage well. (SCN)
Amenities: Live music; free WiFi; full dining menu (grill closes at 9 p.m.)
Buddakhan
713 Vine St., Downtown 513-421-8424
This might be downtown’s best-kept secret, but it’s kind of their own doing. There really isn’t any kind of strong marking to let you know they’re there or open. Buddakhan has a comfortable bar, strong mixed drinks, American and imported beers and friendly bartenders who serve you with a smile quickly, but I have to wonder: When can you find them open? A few months ago they’d open up for happy hour from 4-8 p.m. with reasonable prices. Now they open at 5 – maybe. On occasion I’ve found their door locked. When you can find them open, you’ll enjoy your surroundings and experience. (Larry Gross)
Amenities: Pool table; full dinner menu
C&D Cafe
1714 Hanfield St., Northside, 513-541-9881
With more than 30 microbrews, a hip crowd of regulars and live music, C&D can contend with the better-known Northside destinations any day of the week. The modest exterior doesn’t do it justice. (SCN)
Amenities: Pool tables; live music
Cadillac Ranch
41 E. Sixth St., Downtown, 513-621-6200
From the thirsty college student with a penchant for real Rock & Roll to the Southern traveler venturing out of the Westin Hotel, Cadillac Ranch offers a little something for everyone. One of the largest bars in downtown, the Ranch’s well-concepted design combines the convenience of group dining with the fun of raucous partying – it’s like eating at T.G.I. Friday’s with Bret Michaels. The hubcaps and acoustic guitars that adorn the walls provide an air of authenticity that can’t be ignored. A mechanical bull is ready and willing to break anyone’s back who feels like showing off for their friends. (Danny Cross)
Amenities: Numerous bar areas; full menu; heated patio; giant Cadillac decoration; mechanical bull
The Celestial
1071 Celestial St., Mount Adams 513-241-4455
I’m a middle-class old dude. I remember going to The Celestial when I first moved to Cincinnati in the early 1970s. The place had class then and it has class now. If you’re a rich young dude and want to impress a date, this is where you go. The Celestial has the best view of the city, an outstanding wine selection, a very romantic bar and excellent food. If you’re a poor young dude, drive around with your date until you find a Frisch’s. At The Celestial, all that class doesn’t come cheap.(LG)
Amenities: Live jazz most nights
Champs Sports Bar
151 W. Fifth St., Downtown, 513-579-1234Located in the Hyatt Regency Hotel downtown, this place surprised me in all the right ways. Coming from Northside, an area known for the eccentricity of the local bars, I always get worried about hotel restaurants and bars, because generally the feel is contrived. But once I got to Champ’s, I saw that it was much different. Champ’s gives the sports bar atmosphere a bit more class with their gourmet food and layout of the restaurant. I tried the grilled chicken with spinach gnocchi and roasted garlic cream sauce. Super tasty. The key is that anyone can feel a little ritzy while watching their favorite sports game. They even have a few personal TVs so you can watch the game of your choice, instead of relying on whatever is playing on the big screens. (KG)
Amenities: Pool tables; TVs
Christy’s Rathskeller
151 W. McMillan St., Clifton Heights, 513-281-3600
Located in an historic house built by Christian Moerlein for his daughter’s wedding, this spot has all the trimmings of a perfect (and literal) hole in the wall bar. With a tasty selection of eastern European cuisine and a decent variety of beer and spirits, local and imported, it made its way to the top of my list for local bars. Try the homemade sausage with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes for a German delight. Alongside a nice brew, it snuggles its way into your heart like the slight hint of an endearing accent. They offer a no pressure environment, perfect for a getaway evening out of the usual routine of local Clifton bars. Not to mention they have trivia Tuesday nights where you can flex your brain power with your friends and compete against locals. (KG)
Amenities: Darts; karaoke (certain nights); Trivia Tuesdays; pool table
City View Tavern
403 Oregon St., Mount Adams, 513-241-VIEW
I try keeping this bar in my back pocket when other Mount Adams roosts are too packed and the lines to the bar too long. While not as shiny as the rest of the hill, City View makes an excellent Plan B to escape the rush and relax while enjoying a scenic vista that can’t be beat. Soaking in the urban cityscape from the deck is a terrific way to unwind on a hot summer night. If it’s cold, like it was when I visited, nab a tasty, low-cost sandwich from the bar. (SCN)
Amenities: Pool table; great patio; annual golf scramble
Club Bronz
4029 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-591-2100
Squeezed into the heart of Northside’s entertainment district, Club Bronz offers a more unique experience than the other neighborhood bars. A gold male torso welcomes guests inside, and bright lights dance around the floor as do the customers. Formerly Jacob’s Bar, Bronz keeps the strong neighborhood vibe intact with friendly service and a climate-controlled courtyard that smokers will appreciate. While closed on Monday, this club offers plenty of weekly entertainment – euchre games on Tuesday, karaoke on Wednesday and Sunday, DJs on Thursday and Friday nights and, of course, SaturGAY – the club’s infamous drag show. (CM)
Amenities: Drag shows; free WiFi; pool tables; courtyard
Coach and Four
2200 Victory Pkwy., Walnut Hills, 513-559-9900
A bar for all seasons. On a chilly night, slide up next to the fireplace and order a heated glass of brandy. The cozy bar and smooth Jazz will take you out of the Midwest for a spell. On a warm sunny day, enjoy a Sunday brunch with mimosas on the outdoor terrace. The view of the Mighty Ohio is second to none. Good drinks, complimentary house-made potato chips and an extensive and affordable wine list. (Sara Mahle)
Amenities: Amazing view; outdoor dining area; full dining menu; fireplace
The Comet
4579 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-541-8900
Man, who doesn’t love this place? The juke has everything that ought to be on one – all the Indie Rock you’d want, plus the free live music offers up top-notch acts like the Rumpke Mountain Boys in an up-close-and-personal kind of manner. The more than 200 microbrews and weighty burritos are so good that you’ll forget all about your Chipotle addiction. You can even snap a photo in the picture booth to show your mom what a great time you had. (SCN)
Amenities: Live music; jukebox; photo booth; big-ass burritos; pool tables
Courtyard Caf
This article appears in Feb 27 – Mar 4, 2008.
