Great Lakes, USA
Cincinnati's culinary scene features strong German immigrant heritage from the 19th century. This influence appears in the city's iconic chili and sausage traditions.
German settlers brought expertise, which blended with Midwestern and Southern comfort food elements, creating unique regional cuisine. The Ohio River Valley location also meant access to fresh produce.
Main ingredient in Cincinnati chili, often simmered for a long time.
Central to 'goetta,' a German-American breakfast sausage.
Shredded cheddar cheese defines Cincinnati chili, piled high.
An unique, Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti. Try 3-Way (with cheese).
Find at Skyline Chili, Gold Star Chili, Camp Washington Chili. Look for Skyline Chili Seasoning.
Steamed hot dog in a bun, topped with chili, mustard, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Available at all chili parlors.
German-American breakfast sausage made from ground meat, pin-oats, and spices. Pan-fried until crispy.
Served at local diners and breakfast spots. Glier's Goetta is a popular brand in stores.
Famous for tender BBQ ribs with signature sweet and tangy sauce. Visit the original 'Boathouse' on the Ohio River.
German-inspired bakery with pastries, cakes, pretzels, and traditional German baked goods.
Boca: Highly-rated French-Italian fusion downtown. Orchids at Palm Court: Acclaimed American cuisine in historic Hilton Netherland Plaza.
Sotto (OTR, Italian), Nada (downtown, Mexican), The Eagle (OTR, fried chicken), Arthur's Cafe (Hyde Park, burgers).
Skyline Chili/Gold Star Chili: Affordable, quick meals. Findlay Market: Affordable ethnic foods, baked goods, fresh produce.
Ohio's oldest continually operated public market. Treasure trove of affordable food options. Cultural and culinary landmark.
French Crust Cafe & Bistro for authentic French pastries and coffee.
Mexican, Italian, Vietnamese, Indian, Thai, Mediterranean cuisine found in OTR, Clifton, and suburbs.
Growing diversity reflected in dining scene.
Growing options, labeled dishes in OTR, dedicated restaurants.
Many restaurants are aware; communicate needs to server.
Limited dedicated restaurants. Some international eateries may have Halal. Kosher products at grocery stores.
Major chains have guides. Call ahead for smaller or high-end places.
Ordering a 3-way, 4-way, or 5-way is an unique local ritual. Quick, authentic fast-casual culture.
Counter service is common.
Many housed in beautifully restored historic buildings, some with underground lagering tunnels.
A rich brewing heritage.
Try a '3-Way' from Skyline Chili and Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip ice cream from Graeter's.
Explore local coffee shops for unique blends and ambiance.
Typically served from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM at diners and breakfast spots.
Generally from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. Many restaurants offer lunch specials.
Main evening meal, usually from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, though popular districts may serve later.
This unique, Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce is iconic. It is not thick like Texas chili.
Served over spaghetti in various "ways."
A super-premium ice cream, locally beloved and nationally recognized for its dense, rich texture.
Known for exceptionally large, irregular chocolate chips.
Do not leave Cincinnati without trying a "3-Way" from Skyline Chili and a scoop of Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip ice cream from Graeter's. These are non-negotiable local experiences.
You can find a Cincinnati Cookbook to recreate local dishes at home, extending your culinary journey.
For a truly immersive shopping and dining experience, dedicate a few hours to exploring Findlay Market.
Cincinnati's food identity is deeply rooted in its history, providing an unique culinary journey.
