This blog is a part of an ongoing, year-long series in 2025 that will take a deep dive into the many hidden gems and local favorites in the Cincy Region. Stay tuned for more authentic, trip-planning inspiration from Callie Budrick.
From perfectly smoked barbecue to infamous Cincinnati-style chili, these iconic (and historic!) spots have more than just great food
Let's be real: one of the best parts of traveling is the food. There's nothing I enjoy more than going to a new city and figuring out where the locals have been eating for decades. In fact, I will actively plan my trips to avoid chain restaurants and fast food because I just know somewhere in town has a chicken sandwich I'll never forget, or a delicacy I won't find anywhere else. There's a reason why Guy Fieri dedicates an entire TV show to exploring century-old diners and dives. Restaurants with history just do it better, and Cincinnati's oldest restaurants are no exception.
From perfectly smoked barbecue to the city’s iconic chili, these legendary spots have more than just great food. They offer a taste of Cincinnati’s rich history and culture. If you’re ready to dig in, here are six of the city’s oldest bars and restaurants to add to your travel itinerary.

Arnold's Bar & Grill (Est. 1861)
$20-30; American food; Vegan-friendly; Gluten-Free Options; Paid parking nearby
If you're looking for a centrally-located slice of history, Arnold's is the place to go. Not only do they serve incredible food, but their downtown location is walking distance from several Cincinnati staples like the Aronoff Center for the Arts, Fountain Square, Taft Theater, and the Contemporary Arts Center. It’s also a short streetcar ride to The Banks and Paycor Stadium. But you don’t need other plans to make a visit worthwhile—Arnold’s is a destination in itself.
They have the oldest bar in the city (although Bay Horse Cafe comes in at a close second) and their atmosphere is so warm and inviting it feels like stepping into someone's home with an amazing patio, live music playing from the porch, and the friendliest bartenders. When you visit, ask about the gin bathtub and don't skip out on their famous meatballs.

Scotti's Italian Restaurant (Est. 1912)
$30-50; Authentic Italian; Vegetarian-friendly; Paid parking on East 9th Street
Post a photo from Scotti's Italian Restaurant and your friends will swear you traveled to Italy. Authentic dishes, mosaic walls, checkered tablecloths, and wine bottles hanging from the ceiling are the perfect backdrop for a family dinner or romantic night out.
This semi-hidden gem is conveniently downtown and just a short walk from Fountain Square and other downtown favorites. The portions are generous, and the wine selections are reasonably priced. The dining room fills up quickly, so reservations are recommended especially on weekends.

Mt. Adams Bar & Grill (Est. 1919)
$10-20; American pub food; Street parking
Smack in the middle of one of Cincinnati's most charming neighborhoods, Mt. Adams Bar & Grill feels like a step back in time. Tile floors, dark wood accents, and plenty of memorabilia-covered walls tell a story of vintage charm.
According to local lore, the backbar here originated from a speakeasy owned by the infamous bootlegger, George Remus. Perhaps that's why this tavern became the first bar in Ohio to receive its liquor license after Prohibition. After your meal, head downstairs to the Blind Lemon for a cocktail or take a stroll to nearby Eden Park, Krohn Conservatory, or the Cincinnati Art Museum. It should be noted that, as with many old buildings, Mt. Adams Bar & Grill currently lacks a wheelchair accessible entrance.


Zip's Cafe (Est. 1926)
$10-20 Burgers and pub food; Street parking
Just a short drive east of downtown, you'll find Zip's Cafe nestled in the heart of the Mount Lookout neighborhood. Zip's has remained a local favorite for pub food and cold beers since opening in 1926. The menu keeps it simple but delicious. Inside is a cozy vintage feeling, complete with a toy train that circles the dining room while you enjoy your meal. Their burgers regularly make it on lists for being the best in town, touting the tagline "Cincinnati's favorite burger since before you were born (unless you're older than 97!)" You can't get much better than that. Just a heads up - Zip's doesn't have a kids' menu, but it's still a great place to bring friends and family for a relaxed, feel-good meal in a space that feels like home.


Skyline Chili (Est. 1949)
$10-20; Cincinnati chili; Multiple locations; Vegetarian options available
Okay, this one bends my no-chain rule, but if we're talking about Cincinnati icons, Skyline Chili has to be on the list. There are locations sprinkled throughout the city, but my personal favorite is the one on Ludlow Ave. in Clifton, near the University of Cincinnati. It has that perfect old-school diner vibe and the neighborhood itself is adorable. There are tons of independently-owned shops nearby, an old movie theater, and plenty of bars to stop into for a drink
You should know that Cincinnati-style chili is unique - it's served over spaghetti or piled high on a coney. Some might argue that Gold Star is better, or that you should head to Camp Washington Chili for a more "authentic" experience4. But, Skyline is the king of Cincinnati for a reason - it's a staple of the city, and its legacy isn't going anywhere.
Montgomery Inn Boathouse (Est. 1951)
$30-50; Barbecue; Valet parking $4
If you have ever heard of Cincinnati barbecue, it's probably because of Montgomery Inn. A staple of Cincinnati for more than 70 years, Montgomery Inn is famous for their tangy barbecue sauce that was recently named one of the top five barbecue sauces in the US by Bon Appetit. The Boathouse location, right on the Ohio River, is perfect for groups - just make sure to call for a reservation!
The views here are as impressive as the food, making it a great spot for special occasions or a memorable night out. Dine while you overlook the Ohio River and then soak in the beauty of the Kentucky skyline. Located near Sawyer Park and Yeatman's Cove, it's a convenient stop if you plan to explore The Banks, catch a Reds game, or enjoy a night out on the town.

Herb & Thelma's Tavern (Covington, Kentucky)
$10-20; Hamburgers and American classics; Street parking only
Herb & Thelma's Tavern is the definition of a cozy, no frills dive bar and grill. They're a cash-only establishment that has been serving customers for more than 85 years. The menu is simple, and that's what makes it so good. Order a cheeseburger with a side of Grippo's potato chips - a local favorite - and prepare for delight. The friendly staff and locally sourced products make every visit special, and the prices are unbeatable. *Note, the building lacks wheelchair accessibility and parking.
Pompilio's (Newport, Kentucky)
$20-30; Authentic Italian; Gluten-free options; Vegetarian options; Parking on site
If you're in Newport, swing by Pompilio's on Washington Ave. Think homestyle Italian food, a warmly lit dining room, laughter filling the air, and a bar that has seen almost 100 years of guests - including famous gangsters and celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Tom Cruise and Jack Black. If you've ever seen the movie Rain Man, you may recognize Pompilio's from the toothpick scene. Pompilio's is a restaurant stop on The B-Line®, Northern Kentucky's bourbon experience. This means they stock at least 50 bourbon varieties and offer bourbon-forward menu options. Hearty pasta dishes, authentic antipasti, gluten free and vegetarian options, Kentucky Bourbon, and a story worth reading - Pompilio's has it all.


Looking for more foodie inspiration? Check out our list of local favorites to help you plan your trip to the Cincy Region.