A new restaurant that mixes modern elegance with the nostalgia of an old diner has opened near the University of Cincinnati.
Cap City Fine Diner and Bar, a concept by central Ohio restaurant group Cameron Mitchell Restaurants that has three locations in the Columbus area, opened its first Cincinnati location on Sunday, Dec. 22. The restaurant, located at 320 Straight St. on the ground level of the brand-new Hotel Celare, offers a menu of innovative takes on classic comfort food.
“We are thrilled to bring Cap City Fine Diner and Bar to Cincinnati,” Brad Beam, general manager of the Cincinnati Cap City, said in a press release. “The community here has made this experience so special, and we’re honored to have built a team of incredible new associates who embody the heart of hospitality. I can’t wait to see our guests enjoying the signature warmth, comfort and unforgettable dining experience that Cameron Mitchell Restaurants are known for.”
Cap City’s signature dishes include the Diner Meatloaf, which comes with buttermilk-chive mashed potatoes, mushrooms, broccoli, chili onion rings and BBQ gravy, as well as the daily Blue Plate Features. It’s also known for its desserts, like the Seriously Big Chocolate Cake, 24K Carrot Cake and Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Pie. To drink, try one of the handcrafted cocktails, a margarita on draft or boozy shakes.
Cap City said its design is meant to evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia with timeless diner vibes and an importance placed on community and connection, but also to elevate the experience with its modern flair and vibrant and upscale atmosphere. The restaurant features three custom murals by native Ohio artist Brian Riegel that celebrate Cincinnati’s history. There’s also a central island bar that offers a view of the kitchen; a bakery complete with marquee lights, jars of candy and house-made treats; and a 20-seat private dining room and eight-seat Captain’s Room with TVs and audio-visual capabilities.
Cap City is open on weekdays for lunch, weekends of brunch and nightly for dinner. It also offers a happy hour Monday through Friday from 4-6 p.m., with specials on select cocktails, appetizers and more.
Cap City Fine Diner and Bar, 320 Straight St., CUF. More info: capcityfinediner.com.
This article appears in Dec 11-24, 2024.
