Michael Morgan+FollowCincinnati chefs shine in James Beard spotlightFour Cincinnati chefs and a local bar owner just landed on the James Beard Awards semifinalist list for 2026—a huge nod to the city’s growing food scene. From Sudova’s Ukrainian flavors to Nolia’s Southern soul, these spots are putting Cincinnati on the culinary map. Even Longfellow’s cocktails are getting national attention! It’s exciting to see our neighborhoods recognized for their creativity and community spirit. Who’s tried these places? Which local chef or bar do you think deserves the next big spotlight? Let’s celebrate our city’s food talent and share your favorites below! #Food #CincinnatiEats #JamesBeardAwards00Share
dianefrank+FollowCincinnati’s Italian food scene is on fireCincinnati’s Italian dining scene is having a serious moment, and it’s not just about red sauce and spaghetti. From the modern trattoria vibes at Carmagnola in Hamilton to the city views and creative pastas at Via Vite downtown, and the cozy, nonna-inspired comfort at Pepp & Dolores in Over-the-Rhine, there’s something for every kind of Italian food lover. What stands out is the focus on fresh, house-made ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere. If you’ve tried any of these spots, what’s your go-to dish? And if not, which one are you hitting up first? Let’s swap recommendations! #Food #CincinnatiEats #ItalianFood00Share
dianefrank+FollowCincinnati chefs and bars make James Beard wavesCincinnati and Newport’s food scene just got a major nod—four local chefs and a beloved bar owner are semifinalists for the 2026 James Beard Awards! From Kiki’s inventive Japanese fare in Clifton to Nolia’s soulful Southern flavors in Over-the-Rhine, and Sudova’s Eastern European comfort downtown, these spots are putting our region on the culinary map. Plus, Longfellow’s classic cocktails and cozy vibes landed another national shoutout. It’s exciting to see our neighborhood favorites getting this kind of recognition. Which local spot do you think deserves to win? Let’s celebrate our food scene! #Food #CincinnatiEats #JamesBeard00Share
Valerie Hall+FollowCincinnati’s cheesiest mashup hits OTRThe Eagle in OTR just made every cheese and BBQ lover’s dream come true! After noticing customers mixing their famous burnt ends with five-cheese mac and cheese, the restaurant decided to make it official. Now, this epic combo is on the menu, loaded with extra garnishes for even more flavor. It’s a perfect way to celebrate National Cheese Lovers Day and a great example of a local spot listening to its fans. Who else thinks more restaurants should turn customer hacks into real dishes? What’s your favorite menu mashup? #Food #CincinnatiEats #CheeseLovers00Share
Valerie Hall+FollowRed Sesame brings bold fusion to MedpaceCincinnati’s food scene just got a spicy upgrade—Red Sesame, the beloved Korean-Mexican fusion food truck, is setting up shop inside Element Eatery at Medpace. After years of rolling through the city, owner BJ Kim is trading plans for a brick-and-mortar spot for a 250-square-foot kitchen in this bustling food hall. Locals can soon grab their favorite fusion eats without chasing the truck. What do you think—will Red Sesame’s flavors stand out in a food hall packed with options? Let’s talk about your go-to food truck bites and what you want to see on the menu! #Food #CincinnatiEats #FoodHall00Share
Valerie Hall+FollowBig changes brewing for Downtown Cincinnati diningCristian Pietoso just bought the historic building that once housed Pigall’s, a legendary spot in Cincinnati’s food scene. While he’s decided not to move Nicola’s downtown as originally planned, he’s cooking up a brand-new restaurant concept for the iconic Fourth Street space. For anyone who remembers Pigall’s or loves seeing new life in downtown, this feels like a major moment. What kind of restaurant would you love to see in that space? Cincinnati’s dining scene is about to get even more interesting—let’s talk about what you hope comes next! #Food #CincinnatiEats #DowntownCincy10Share
Annette Jones+FollowCincinnati’s best-kept restaurant secretsSome of the most unforgettable meals in Greater Cincinnati are hiding in plain sight—think lakeside fish logs in North College Hill or a cozy Bavarian spot perfect for any meal. These under-the-radar gems are serving up everything from classic burgers to mouthwatering pupusas, and locals are loving the adventure of discovering new favorites. If you’re tired of the same old places, this fresh list of five hidden gems might just shake up your dining routine. Have you tried any of these, or do you have your own secret spot to share? Let’s swap recommendations! #Food #CincinnatiEats #HiddenGems00Share
Jason Wells+FollowCincinnati’s best-kept restaurant secretsSome of the city’s most unforgettable meals are hiding in plain sight. From Covington’s Wunderbar, where beer cheese and pretzels steal the show, to Lake Nina’s classic Cincinnati comfort food, these spots are all about personality and flavor. Teranga’s West African dishes and Guanacos Cafe’s Salvadoran pupusas bring global flair, while Cincy Gourmet Deli nails NYC-style sandwiches and shawarma. Each place feels like a local’s secret, but they’re too good not to share. What’s your go-to hidden gem in Cincinnati? Let’s build the ultimate neighborhood food map together! #Food #CincinnatiEats #HiddenGems00Share
mary01+FollowTaste of Belgium fights to stay open in CincyTaste of Belgium, the beloved Cincinnati breakfast spot known for its waffles, is taking a bold step to keep serving the community. Despite closing several locations and facing lawsuits over unpaid rent and loans, the team isn’t giving up. By filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, they’re aiming to reorganize and keep their doors open at Rookwood, The Banks, and Findlay Market. For regulars, this means your favorite brunch isn’t going anywhere—at least for now. How do you feel about local favorites fighting to survive tough times? Let’s talk about what these places mean to our neighborhoods. #Food #CincinnatiEats #SupportLocal00Share
Annette Jones+FollowWhy Bee’s Barbecue in Cincinnati sells out dailyThe smoky aroma hits you before you even step out of your car at Bee’s Barbecue in Madisonville, and that’s just the start. This unassuming shack draws crowds from across Ohio—people line up early, check Instagram for updates, and hope their favorite brisket or ribs haven’t sold out yet. What sets Bee’s apart? No flashy marketing, just honest-to-goodness smoked meats, creamy mac and cheese, and sides that locals rave about. The owners’ hands-on approach and a welcoming backyard vibe make every visit feel special. If you’ve been, what’s your go-to order? And if not, what’s stopping you from joining the line? #Food #CincinnatiEats #BBQ00Share
