A great night at Losanti in OTR!

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Holy crap what took me so long to visit Losanti ? Well, I can tell you one thing … I’ll be back very soon! 

Cheers!

The Team! 

Owners Chef Anthony & Haley Sitek have really nailed it with Losanti, the sister restaurant to Crown Republic, another great place in Cincy to put on your list if you haven’t yet. It is almost the year anniversary and they are still going strong in the craziest year in the business. 

Nice partitions for dining safely

And, I Love the name!

Losanti which is a nod to the original name of Cincinnati is a stone throw from Washington Park in the old Anchor location. They have really done a great job creating a soft and warm ambiance both inside and with the outside dining, too. Service (we had Maeve she’s adorbs) was fantastic! The cocktail menu made it really hard to decide (such a great problem).   

Nice bar & great cozy vibe

What did I nosh on? 

Now let’s get to the best part… the FOOD! Even though they are categorized as a steakhouse we went a different direction. Starting with the Mussels and OMG seriously lick the bowl and re-dip the bread, delish. Speaking of bread, we tried the focaccia on Maeve’s reco, and let’s just say carb overload may have gone down… so good. Tuesday is known for “Fried Chicken Night” it is Chef Jenna’s family recipe… totally worth every bite and 100% up my alley. The chicken was a half chicken, served over charred onion mashed potatoes,  topped with tomato gravy that really took it to another level. Who can say “NO” to Gnocchi Al Forno ~ truffle? ..swoon… it was creamy delish. OK, you’re probably full just reading this but oh heck no matter how full I am I always have room for dessert. We happily dug into the highly recommended Butter Cake…mmm warm with a scoop of salted caramel gelato..seriously what a way to end the night. 

I can’t wait to go again and even though they have dinner specials almost every night I will have to try their wonderful steaks. The menu has a wonderful array of choices so there is something for everyone. 

Reality check… I guess in these crazy days I need to give a shout out to the safety factor. Yes, I felt very safe. They have installed partitions and distanced the tables. They also have the outside area which is so cute. 

 

Need to know:

*Parking on the street ~ remember the parking app is your best friend :) or in the parking garage under Washington Park. 

*1401 Race St. 

*Monday – Thursday 5:00pm – 9:00 pm , Friday & Saturday 4:30pm- 10:00 pm 

* Brunch & Lunch coming soon … SWEET! 

* Bar seating is available 

 

The Standard in Covington… A great place to “fill up”

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The Standard  is everything but “standard!” Owners Emily Wolff & Paul Weckman, who have sprinkled their love around Covington with other wonderful places such as Frida 602, Ottos, Larry’s All American Cafe (all these can be added to your list if you haven’t been :) having taken an old 1930’s filling station (for you youngsters that is a gas station and a car repair) and made it one of the coolest places to grab dinner and a cocktail. It was a project that was a perfect extension of their creativity. 

They may have taken away the pumps and oil spills, but Emily & Paul have creatively told the history of the station and it’s former, long-time owner Butch Ostendorff with the cool decor. When you look around you see nods to the good ole days with the keys that hang from the crystal chandelier left behind by former customers. Butch’s tools are now used as the beer taps and the amazing mural that covers the dining room wall that incorporates things found in the desks. You have to take a look at the wallpaper that Emily drew… amazing! 

The outside is the perfect place to visit offering a funky vibe including a table designed by a local artist who has done cool stuff all over town. They also engaged some street artists to add “graffiti” to the walls. If you happen to be standing at the entrance when the trains pass by overhead you see what Emily calls their “moving art” because it’s never the same. The graffiti from the trains tie in with the cool designs on the building. 

Ok, now that we’ve talked about what a cool atmosphere of The Standard,  let me tell you how delish the food is! The food menu has an Asian flair and even though it is a smaller menu it is stocked with some amazing dishes. It will change with the season and with these two I have no question it will always be fantastic. Must-haves are the Corn Chow Chow and the Watermelon Salad with the tajin sprinkle to give it just the right heat, the KY Banh Mi and the Honey Sriracha Tenders were so good and we shared the “Shop Bowl” which is chilled noodle salad and you can add a protein…yum! 

There are plenty of cocktails, but I suggest you try the Bourbon Slush not only because it’s damn good, but because it is the recipe of Marge… Butch’s wife who used to make the slushies and put them in dixie cups in the freezer for customers to have while waiting for their cars to be repaired, :) LOVE 

As you can see – from the decor to the vibe, to the food – this place is not Standard, but it is THE Standard. I promise it a great place to get a “fill up” haha get it? :)  

 

Things to know:

 

  • 434 Main St. Covington

 

  • Parking in the lot around back. Not many spots so look for street parking 

 

  • Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 5:00 p.m – 1:00 a.m. (may close earlier during COVID hours) 

 

  • Ask about the elephant story 

 

Here is the WCPO channel 9 segment with my blog and the wonderful Kristyn Hartmann 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdYM6ZPHzYk&feature=youtu.be

Ivory House in Westwood…Fab but not too Fussy!

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Ivory House

 

I was so excited to check out the new restaurant in Westwood and I left even more excited thinking of when I could go back. This is a Foodie Alert!

Ivory House opened mid-July. It has already been a welcomed addition to the community who is so excited to have an upscale, yet not overly fussy, a place to go and experience “elevated familiar foods” as described by Head Chef Dana Adkins. Dana and sous chef,  Rob Scannell come from good stock with expertise in the industry at some of Cincy’s favorites. Together they have created an extensive menu that will please everyone’s palate even catering to the vegans & vegetarians in your life. 

What I tried…

Chef Adkins brought out some of his favorite items for me to try and WOW… let’s just say I wasn’t hungry the rest of the day :) I started with the Scallop Crudo Scallops topped over collard green kimchi, pickled chilies, whipped lard, and crispy benne seed crackers. It was followed by the Ivory House Waygu & Cheddar Sandwich – waygu top round, Ivory House steak sauce, smoked Ohio cheddar, onion straws on a brioche bun. Oh, and if that doesn’t sound like enough, I dove into the Mussel Diablo with pickled chili- tomato broth, sorrel salsa verde, and grilled bread. They, of course, have an amazing craft cocktail menu to help wash all of that down. I tried the Death Valley Farm Old Fashion and the East Meets Westwood (cute name and delish). 

They take enormous pride in the use of around 90% local ingredients. I know that we hear people talk about this a lot,  but it really is cool when you can support so many people in our area who are growing produce and farms that are able to supply local meat and local cheese that ends up creatively prepared for us to enjoy. I was told that one day Chef went to the farm, pulled the carrots, came back washed, and prepared them for the dinner menu that evening… you can’t get fresher than that.

I love what they did with the old bank space. They kept the 60’s bank entrance but really took the inside to another level. The beautiful blue that is carried throughout the whole restaurant is so pretty and accented with white. And nice touch with the white piano that will entertain you with live tunes Thursday thru Sunday. 

Owners & Ivory House

The owner’s Rick Pouliot & Frank Eversole didn’t just pick Westwood out of a hat for this venture. They are long time residents and property investors in Westwood. Frank said he loves seeing all of the development happening and the neighborhood is really on an upswing. He loves the neighborhood and is pleased that people are really happy to see the Ivory House in the area. 

Why Ivory House? It is named in homage to James N.Gamble .. you guessed it from the P & G family (Ivory Soap in case you haven’t caught on yet:)  but, more importantly, the last Mayor of Westwood when it was its own city.  They were in awe of the legacy of what he did for the area and his philanthropy so they felt it was a perfect name.  

 

Things to know:

  • 2998 Harrison Ave. 

 

  • Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. -10:00 p.m. , Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. – 11 p.m. , Sunday 11 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. – 10 p.m.   ( hours will change when Brunch starts and they will open at 9:00 a.m.)

 

  • They have a Lunch & Dinner Special every day! The lunch special is $10 

 

  • For those who do not venture to the Westside, It is easy to get to so don’t be worried ;) 

 

  • Plenty of parking all around the building and on the street 

 

  • Open for lunch, dinner & starting August 15th at 9:00 a.m. BRUNCH will be available on Saturday & Sundays …Yes, I can’t wait for this! There is a curbside to-go lunch menu 

 

  • They do take reservations 513-389- 0175

 

  • They have a large wine selection and soon will have wine lockers for purchase 

 

  • A wonderful party room is available for gathering seating 10 people 

 

The Lytle Park Hotel… A beautiful night stay in Cincinnati

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Lytle Park Hotel

Have you been Looking for a great hotel in the heart of Cincinnati that is rich in history, has a great restaurant, and an amazing rooftop with incredible panoramic views? Well… it’s open and it’s the new Lytle Park Hotel!

 

The hotel is an Autograph Collection that was built on the site of the historic Anna Louise Inn which is in Lytle Park, another city gem.  The building is unique and so cool as they preserved the charm of the Inn and built the hotel around it and another existing building.   Entering the lobby, you can glance up and see the original windows but don’t forget to take time to look at the street side view from the outside… I love how they kept so much of the original structure. The lobby’s chandeliers are stunning and the color scheme is so inviting throughout.  This is what makes an Autograph collection so unique in each city. They really let the hotels embrace the history and story of the city it’s in. 

 

Let me say that no stone was left unturned when designing this beauty and bringing homage to Cincinnati with the amazing decor. You will be in awe the minute you enter the lobby. The feel of the park is present inside and out with the theme subtly apparent throughout. An eye-catching skylight above the lobby bar lights the upside-down queen tiara, boasting 96 jewels, a nod to the Queen City.  Behind the indoor dining for Subito (means “fast” in French) there is a private dining room called the Oak Room. I want to mention this room because they kept this room, but had to lower the floor 4ft. which is why the windows are very high providing such a cool perspective of the different views… This just shows how much care and thought went into the preservation of this hotel.

And who doesn’t want to look over Lytle Park and the Taft Museum as they dined outdoors? This whole area is open-air and has heated floors, so is a perfect place to dine outdoors during the Fall months. We had the pleasure of a beautiful night of dining on the patio. The menu has something for everyone. Housemade pasta, stone-oven pizzas to Osso Buco and Steaks but don’t skip over the salad and apps. I loved the Prosciutto & Bleu Salad, Fritto Misto yumm lightly fried shrimp, calamari, broccolini, oysters, and then we shared the Salmon and one of the amazing steaks. They have scratch-made sauces that will take your steak to another level ;)  fantastic. 

There are 106 rooms including 2 Presidential Suites and a few executive suits. I had the chance to stay the night and the rooms are beautiful with special touches throughout. The luxury Parisian bathrooms, Italian linens, Nespresso coffee maker, and after CODID19, they will resume special touches like turndown service and more. 

The topper (pun intended) is the Vista Rooftop Bar. This is now the largest and only 4- season rooftop in Cincinnati with beautiful panoramic views of the city. A gorgeous Rookwood bar serving up drinks in pretty crystal glasses… making the drinks taste even better ;) There is also a food menu to enjoy. All of the accordion doors and windows can close allowing a view all year long. 

So, go soak it in, whether you want to just look around and have a drink, eat dinner or book a night the Lytle Hotel is truly a new gem in our city. Here are some highlights you should keep in mind. 

Things to look for while visiting:

  • #1 is the amazing piano player in the lobby on the weekends! 
  • The Rookwood fountain by the elevators that was built in 1910 in the original building
  • The cool mirror wall by the Vista bathrooms
  • Check out the shop in the lobby for some Cincy favorites. 
  • They have office space for meetings in the lower level which also houses a kitchen area, tables for games, and a lounge area for work or reading. There is also a state of the art gym with a Peloton bike and tons of equipment.
  • Pet friendly up to 50 lbs.
  • A beautiful room with an outside balcony that can be rented for parties, weddings, meetings, etc.
  • Try the Mable Manhattan only in the lobby bar! It is named after a lady who was an immigrant and lived in Lytle her whole life. She visited the hotel during construction but passed away at 106 before the opening. 

When visiting you should check out a few places:

  • Take a short walk along sidewalks then over the Purple People Bridge. A wonderful outdoor fun area with food and drinks at Newport on the Levy and the Aquarium
  • The Taft Museum – 200 year old historic house filled with amazing charm and works of art.
  • Many of our amazing restaurants. Check out my Instagram or website for ideas
  • Walk along the river to Smale Park. 
  • Enjoy Reds, Bengals and FC soccer games and the Reds Museum 

Here is the clip of my WCPO 9 on your side with Kristyn Hartman for more views
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gtveScNVTw

Restaurant Reopenings, Small biz relief & New eats in Cincy

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Here we are on day 182 (I think) of being confined and, yet the restaurant and bar owners keep coming up with great ideas and they are constantly changing things up! Kudos to all of them for they are doing all it takes to stay up and running during these crazy times.

I thought I would just give an update to restaurants and bars that are opening soon with different offerings. The current lists change often, but as always, feel free to message me on IG or here if you need help finding who is open and what is going on.

Bid on fun experiences now to help Cincy small businesses –

First, I need to give you a heads up to the partnership between some wonderful Cincy businesses and Everything But The House. Right now, you have the chance to bid on one-of-a-kind experiences like a behind the scenes tour at the Cincinnati Art Museum, private cocktail parties at Homemakers Bar and many more. All proceeds benefit Queen City Small Biz Relief Fund. Hurry because the bidding ends Sunday, May 3rd! Click HERE for info

One other fun thing if you are a bourbon drinker especially a Pappy fan. Libby’s Southern Comfort is serving up their tasty fried chicken but they are adding some bourbon fun. If you purchase a $100 gift card to Libby’s you get your name in the bucket for a chance to buy a bottle ( the bottle changes so check their page) of Pappys at retail price.

New reopenings for carryout: 

Thunderdome Restaurants –  The Eagle, Pepp & Dolores – opening May 1st from 4-9pm  & Bakersfield opening May 5th (Hola … Cinco de Mayo). All offering carry-out and delivery — credit card only. Select City Bird and Currito locations are now open, too.

Pontiac BBQ– 1403 Vine St. Opening Sat. May 2nd. They’ll be “slinging Bar-B-Que”

Brew Dog– Pendleton –  Beer only, but some new brews like “Rollercoaster” … how fitting is that !? They re-open Apr 30th, 2-7 pm

The Pub in Rookwood– 2692 Madison Rd. Opens up with a fish fry on Friday, May 1st.

E & O – 3520 Edwards -Hyde Park location only –  is open for curbside and carryout

Branch/ Night Drop– 1535 Madison Rd. is doing a pop-up Burger, fries, boozy milkshakes and other fun cocktails Wed – Fri 5-8 pm

Forno Osteria & Bar-9415 Montgomery Rd. – Opens tonight carryout or curbside pick up 1-8:30 pm

Osaka Ramen House– 8084 Beechmont Ave.- opens for carryout May 1st

New openings during this time can’t be easy, but a couple have done it!

Fifty West Burger Bar – 7605 Wooster Pike. They opened this week offering up some delicious burger, fries and house-made rootbeer, shakes, and more … great vibes just like an old school roadside root beer stand. Once things are back in full swing,  they will open up their beer garden, sandpit, futsal court. And, they are right on the awesome bike trail.

Boom Box Buns– 1400 Republic St.  If you follow me on Instagram, you know I’ve had an infatuation with this place when it was a walk-up window. Well, now it’s all grown up and has a front door :) So, they now have a brick and mortar placed and can’t use it. But they are offering carryout of their amazing soft buns with so many stuffing flavors.

Fun new things to pick up:

Peace, Love & Little Donuts – Are offering a DYI kit for $20. These little donuts are delish and adorbs :) They give you everything you need to assemble your donuts at home. They also have online ordering … get ‘em while they’re hot!

Dunlap Café – OK I am totally pumped about this! They have Adult Happy Meals hahaha LOVE … They come in a carry box and you can pick what option depending on the beverage of choice, Burger, Chicken tenders, Chicken Sandwich, and fries and, yes.. you get a prize!

Sixteen Bricks – 4760 Paddock Rd. – If you have gone out to eat most likely you’ve had the pleasure of eating some amazing bread from 16 Bricks. Now you can grab some and take it home. I think they may bless us with one more week to enjoy their amazing pastry selection! You need to order in advance, so check out the website. Warning you will drool while reading ;) Cookies, croissants and so much more. Maybe, just maybe, they will offer the pizza kit one more time!!

Cocktails:

Don’t forget that many of the restaurants that are open can serve two cocktails per order! Perfect add on to any order like the one below at Goose & Elder!

Lonely Pines Steak- Will be serving up Daiquiris Thursday-Saturday 4-8 pull up and grab one and you might want a t-shirt too!

Sixteen Bricks

Cocktails to go at Goose & Elder

Peace, Love & Little Donuts

Dunlap Adult Happy Meal

Support Local! Restaurants, Work-outs , Caterers & More

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Here is a list that keeps growing! These are the restaurants open with carryout, curbside and some who started a limited delivery offer. Please check my Hey Michelle Facebook page for more. The bottom of this is a list of OTR stores and more and how you can support! Thank you to all who replied on my Facebook and Instagram with all the scoop. 

Also, follow Quidwell on Instagram they are supporting all local workout studios who are offering online sessions and the ability for you to donate for the class! LOVE THIS

Chef Cristian from Via Vite and Forno is posting cooking classes! I’ll be reposting on my Facebook page

 

Just go to social media and check your favorite local spot and see what they are offering!

  • Tip well! Offer extra for bartenders, hostess, and others who are no longer working
  • Buy merchandise … t-shirts, hats, etc.
  • Buy gift cards for later 
  • Please try to shop online with your favorite local retail shop. Some will deliver to your home
  • Most coffee shops are open so go get some!
  • Caterers … don’t forget they have had everything canceled and need you so reach out and order. Most are doing some meal prep

Sotto– carryout 513-977-6886 Mon-Sun 4-9 all the goods and… read the next line

Boca– serving up the scallop & brussel sprout dish and Boca burger through Sotto carryout!

Boom Box Buns– Grand Opening on Thursday at 1400 Republic St.. they will open with carryout 12-8 

The Works in Loveland– curbside and delivery options

Garnish Catering– carryout and delivery. www.garnishcincinnati.com, info@garnish-catering.com or 513-791-2433

On The Rhine Eatery– pick up for all food court restaurants! ( great selection ) www.ontherhineeatery.com

 Libby’s Southern Comfort– Famous Fried Chicken and Goetta hush puppies along with sides available for pick up order call 859-261-3106

Urban Grill on Main– Carry out and Online orders start Wednesday. Packaged beer & wine also available. 

The Green Farm Juicery– Pick up and Curbside you can call in your order Hyde Park 513-620-7111, Blue Ash 513-417-8749 or online www.greenfarmjuicery.com/shop

Awakenings Coffee & Wine– Pick up coffee, quiche and more

Balance Cafe & Smoothie– healthy meal prep and curbside pick up. Order online www.balancecafe.com 

Alfio’s Buon Cibo– carry out and delivery within 3 miles 513-321-0555

O’bryons Bar & Grill– carry out! 513-321-5525

Share Cheesebar– pick up 513-351-3063

Dead Low Brewing – carry out food and growlers 513-800-1231

Montgomery Inn– offering pick up and delivery 

Sitwell’s Coffee House– pick up, carry out 513-281-7487

Crown Republic– DYI pasta kit curbside! 513-246-4272

Aladdin’s Eatery & Lounge – curbside and delivery open 11-7 call 513-381-0395 

E & O both locations  – curbside pick up

Chili Time Restaurant– Call 513-641-1130 drive-thru pick up 

The Birch in Terrace Park– starting Tuesday through Friday from noon to two and 430 to 630 Will be offering delivery within a 4-mile radius. Please tip well

Fireside Pizza – pick up

O Pie O– pick up and are also offering free meals to school children check their website

Terry’s Turf Club– pick up 513-533-4222

The Pickled Pig– pick up curbside delivery 513-748-7114

Via Vite–  pick up all great but please try the lasagna! VV 513-721-8483

Tony’s – Curbside menu is on the website 513-677-8669  open 4-8

Station family and barbecue and CWC the restaurant -Will be offering carryout 513-679-6797

Price Hill Chili–  carryout 513-471-9507

The Littlefield – Northside 513-386-7570

Branch – Walnut Hills offering carryout 513-221-2702

Mom n ‘em Coffee and wine -will bring your coffee warm food to your car text 513-390-7681

Hangover Easy– Clifton is offering carryout 513-221-5400

Dream Dinners- Will deliver your meal prep service curbside 513-233-3732, Anderson 

The Gruff– Covington Kentucky has a pickup window 859-581-0040

Saigon Noodle Bar -West Chester- Will be doing carry out and curbside pick up delivery through door Dash and GrubHub 513-874-5888

Coffee Please– Madeira  carryout

Urban Stead Cheese– Walnut Hills  will be offering retail cheese beer and wine with carryout Tues-Fri 4-7, Sat & Sun 1-5 they are working on an online ordering. They are also offering Farm fresh eggs and bread they can also pre-order ground beef and pork for pick up they are partnering with local farms to offer this all to you. Please call them at 513-828-0830 to see what is available. Fresh curds will be available at 6 o’clock tonight

Bones Burgers – carryout 513-407-2939

Nine Giant Brewing- starting carryout Food is as good as the brew.. open for lunch too 513-366-4550 

Django Western Taco – Northside 513-978-0619or OTR Eatery 513-263-5915 carryout

Bow Tie Cafe- Offering breakfast & lunch carry out and delivery 621-CAFE

The School House Restaurant – carryout ( you may get extra credit for an online class :) 

Funky Catering– Funky’s To Go available March 16 through April 3 same-day orders may be placed 8:30 AM to noon next day orders can be placed up to 5:00 call 513 841-9999 funky is also is available for delivery with a $20 delivery charge up to 10 miles.

Tanto Bistro– offering take out both locations and reopening the “Take and Bake” location on Loveland Maderia Rd. 513-683-8266

Urban grill on Main in Newtown– will offer a carry out an online ordering starting Wednesday curbside pick up an online payment. Packaged beer and wine will also be available. www.urbangrillonmain.com

Matt the Miller’s Tavern– * WEST CHESTER location Curbside pick up or delivery via grub hub and DoorDash Mon-Sun 11-8.

BonBonerie– will provide curbside service call 513-321- 3399 extension 2 for the bakery extension 3 for the café they are also offering delivery within a 10-mile radius

Streetside Brewery -remain open daily 3 to 8 for carryout orders they will have a drive-through option for details soon.

Nicolas- Is doing carryout starting March 23rd check website for a limited menu. 513-721-6200.  For  a limited time gift cards are available at a special price $100 and receive $20 bonus!

China Gourmet– carryout  Monday through Saturday 3 to 9 and delivery Monday through Saturday 5 to 9 delivery Will be based on demand call 513-871-6612. ( They just received a $1,000 tip from a customer …how great is that!?) 

Sacred Beast Dinner- online ordering at info@sacredbeastdiner.com

Forno – 513-231-5555 to place your order daily from 4-10

Jeff Ruby’s -is offering curbside take out go to the link on the website and check out and pay online pull into valet for pick up. 

The Cheesecakery–   Madisonville is offering online ordering and in-store pick up as well as door Dash we still need or sweets! 613-985-5225

Gomez Salsa Cantina -Walnut Hills & OTR ..online or phone orders 513-954-8541

Parlor on Seventh -Covington is offering pick up and delivery 11:30 a.m. to 8 PM delivery is available on door Dash and Uber eats 859-993-4700

Quan Hapa – OTR  full menu of Ramen and Asian items for carryout the delivery 11 AM to 9 PM you can order online or call 513-421-7826

Tickle Pickle– Northside is offering all of your burger favorites for carryout and is working on a delivery option 513-954-4003

The Delish Dish– Covington Curbside and carryout Menu on website orders@thedelishdish.com 

Sweets & Meats BBQ – Mt. Washington carryout Wed-Sun 513-888-4227 or order online www.sweetsandmeatsbbq.com 

WESTSIDE ! 

Maury’s Tiny Cove– Pick up & delivery within 7 miles 513-662-2683

Maloney’s Pub West – Drive thru St. Patty’s Pitty Party… bring growlers for fill up and grab some grub!

Wishbone Tavern– Carryout.. you can take and eat in the bed of your truck like some fellas yesterday! Call 513-834-8607 they are doing deliveries with orders more than $35 call for details Open 11 AM to 9 PM

Chandler’s burger bistro– in Delhi take out starting at 11 AM quesadilla Tuesday Rolls right along as usual call 513-941-0823

This was sent to me via OTR Chamber… for sake of time, I am sending as is instead of retyping :) My assistant is out sick haha as if  :)
#OTRisOpen : Support Small Businesses
Business Name Business Address Shopping Options Available Platform
Phone Number
 Website link:
EATERIES
3 Sweet Girls Cakery 29 East 12th Street Carry out, courier delivery, & gift cards Private courier (513) 421-0109 http://ww.3sweetgirlscakey.com
Aladdin’s Eatery + Lounge 1203 Main Street Carry-out / Delivery & Giftcards Doordash, GrubHub, Post Mates (513) 381-0395 https://aladdins.com
B&A Street Kitchen 1500 Race Street Carry-out / Pick-up, Giftcards, Accepting Donations Call the restaurant! Doordash, UberEats, EZCater (513) 345-6670 http://bastreetkitchen.com
Brown Bear Bakery 116 E. 13th Street Carry-out / Pick-up (513) 975-2142 http://www.brownbearbakery.com
Ché 1342 Walnut Street Carry-out/Delivery Uber Eats and by calling the restaurant (513) 345-8838 http://www.CheCincinnati.com
Coffee Emporium 110 East Central Parkway It only allows you to select one. We offer carry out/ pickup, online shopping and gift cards Our website (513) 300-9188 http://www.coffee-emporium.com
Cryo Cincy 1712 Elm Street Online Shopping www.cryocincy.com (513) 773-9801 https://www.cryocincy.com/
Deeper Roots Coffee 1814 Race Street Bags of coffee for home brewing available on our website & Giftcards Bags of coffee for home brewing available on our website! (513) 655-6535 https://www.deeperrootscoffee.com/coffee
Findlay Market 1801 Race Street Order through the app and onsite pick-up! Findlay Market Shopping App. http://findlaymarket.org/news/findlay-market-shopping-app
Goose & Elder 1800 Race Street Carry-out/Delivery Our Website for pick-up, UberEats for delivery (513) 579-8400 https://www.gooseandelder.com
Iris BookCafe 1331 Main Street Carry-out Call to order healthy all- natural foods, vegetarian and vegan house-made menu items (meat options) at affordable price points. (513) 381-2665 https://www.irisbookcafeotr.com
LouVino 1142 Main Street Carry-out Please call! (770) 286-7953 https://louvino.com/otr/
Macaron Bar OTR 1206 Main Street Carry out, delivery, online shopping, & gift cards Website, Uber eats, grub hub, doordash (513) 813-8180 http://www.macaron-bar.com
Mikey’s Late Night Slice 2014 Elm Street Carry-out, Uber Eats and Door Dash Door Dash, Uber Eats, Postmates, GrubHub (513) 258-0518 https://www.latenightslice.com/
Nation Kitchen & Bar 1200 Broadway Street Carry-out / Delivery DoorDash, Uber Eats, GrubHub 513-381-3794 http://www.nationkitchenandbar.com Tuesday – Sunday: 11am-9pm
MOTR Pub 1345 Main Street Delivery 53T Courier (513) 381-6687 https://www.motrpub.com/
OTR Bagel Bar 107 West Elder Street Carry-out / Delivery TBD (513) 313-4843
Pho Lang Thang 1828 Race Street Carry-out/Delivery 53T Courier (513) 376-9177 https://www.pholangthang.com/
Sweet Petit Desserts 1426 Race Street We are strictly catering now. 10am-2pm pick-up hours vary/ Catering Delivery Ava. We deliver. (513) 444-5094 http://www.sweetpetitdesserts.com
Taft’s Ale House 1429 Race Street Carry-out, Delivery, Giftcards Uber Eats, 53T Courier (513) 334-1393
Taft’s Brewpourium Cincinnati 4831 Spring Grove Ave Carry-out Call to order carry-out! (513) 853-5021
Tucker’s on 13th 18 E. 13th Street Carry-out/ Delivery Doordash, Uber Eats, GrubHub (513) 501-6073
https://www.grubhub.com/restaurant/tuckers-restaurant-18-e-13th-st-cincinnati/762213
SHOPS
Artichoke 1824 Elm Street We are offering delivery to the Cincinnati Metro Area for purchases over $20. We also have gift cards and can mail them. We can take orders over the phone. Free delivery by us. (513) 263-1002 http://www.artichokeotr.com
Cincinnati Hemp Company 101 W. Elder Street Carry-out / Pick-up, Delivery Findlay Market pick-up and delivery of orders over $10 (513) 288-0636 https://www.facebook.com/cincinnatihempcompany/
Cincy Shirts 1301 Main St Online Shopping, Giftcards Free shipping on our website, and normal production on custom T-shirt orders. (513) 510-5774 http://www.CincyShirts.com
CURAtive Marketing LLC 1025 Dalton Ave All of the above We ship ourselves, UPS, or courier (513) 633-6201 https://printotr.com/
HART & CRU 1401 Elm Street Delivery,/Online Shopping WWW.HARTANDCRU.COM (419) 348-9592 http://www.hartandcru.com
Idlewild 1230 Vine Street Online Shopping & Gift Cards. We’ll be hosting virtual shopping parties on Instagram. Free shipping on all online orders. IdlewildWoman.com https://www.idlewildwoman.com
Lane & Kate 1417 Vine Street Online Shopping Shopify, www.Laneandkate.com (513) 381-0650 https://laneandkate.com/
Ombré Gallery 1511 Race Street Online Shopping Free USPS 2-3 day priority shipping & Giftcards. All current performances are cancelled. The CSC Box Office is still available seven days a week by phone and in person (subject to change) from: noon-5pm. (513) 813-7278 https://www.ombregallery.com/
Pet Wants Cincy 1409 Vine Street Delivery Delivery on our website, curbside at both locations (513) 888-3647 https://petwantscincy.com
Queen City Alchemy 1808 Race Street Online Shopping www.queencityalchemy.com (513) 384-8286 https://www.queencityalchemy.com
Styled by Mama 16 E. 13th Street Online Shopping, Curbside pick-up of orders, & Gift Cards Website for online shopping. Phone for pickup orders. (917) 892-8118 https://www.styledbymama.com
The Most Beautiful Thing in the World is 6 West 12th Street Online Shopping, Free local delivery and curbside pick up www.themostbeautifulthingintheworldis.com (888) 662-8737 https://www.tmbtitwi.com
Wolfpack 1342 Main Street Online Shopping www.shopthewolfpack.com/ https://www.shopthewolfpack.com/
ENTERTAINMENT
Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society / Longworth-Anderson Series 1225 Elm Street Accepting Donations/Gift certificates WeShare, LA Website, Memorial Hall’s website (315) 276-8162 https://www.longworth-andersonseries.com
Cincinnati Shakespeare Company 217 W. 12th Street All current performances are cancelled. Box Office is still open 7 days a week (subject to change) 12-5pm. Website & Box Office (513) 381-2273 https://cincyshakes.com/

Lola’s… Cincinnati Coffee Spot

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I just had the most amazing two weeks traveling through France and Italy I loved every minute exploring looking up and down and all around the cities full of history. I also loved watching the culture and how people lived. One thing I noticed most was the culture of having a cup of coffee. There are no Grande sized coffees, no to go cups, no order online for a quick pick up while you fly in with your phone stuck to your ear. Coffee is how you start your day at a local coffee shop talking with friends or reading the paper. Small cups of coffee or espresso in small glass coffee cups sometimes served with a pitcher of warm milk. Starting your day with this calm and social way is slowly making its way to the U.S.

I have noticed some of our local coffee shops are becoming a gathering spot. You may have to drive there and not saunter down the cobblestoned streets but hey I’ll take it! Some are even going as far as saying no wifi so..(gasp) no computers just people having conversation. We need to slow down enjoy the moment be present with our friends not just send a bitmoji of ourselves. I feel like we don’t like to admit when you have actual time to sit down with someone just to catch up. We need to be hurrying from one appointment to the next. So my biggest lesson learned  from my trip is an easy one. Call a friend meet for a cup of coffee and spend a half hour actually unplugging and making someone important without distraction.

I have many favorite local coffee shops Urbana, Landlocked Social House, Hydeperk, and more that I constantly post about on Instagram. We have so many it makes me so happy.

 

One that I have just discovered is Lola’s. Two locations downtown and Hyde Park. They both have a great vibe but the new one in Hyde Park will suck you in the minute you open the door! It is absolutely adorable, cozy and eclectic… you may never want to leave. There are even games if you choose to stay from coffee into beer hours :) Serving up delicious coffee using beans from a local roaster, delish pastries and breakfast Sammies. They also offer cocktails, beer and wine. So grab a friend sit down and check out Lola’s.

Need to Know:

•3425 Erie Ave. & 24 W. 3rdSt.

•Monday – Friday 7am-7pm, Saturday 9am-6pm and Sunday 8am-6pm Downtown same hours except closed on Sunday

•When you stop in check out the tables that owner handmade! So fun.

•What’s in the name? Lola was a dog that the owner and his friends found tied to a dumpster that they rescued and nursed back to health :)

•They have delish pastries from Mad Llama Bakery and breakfast sammies

"out of this world" flight

LouVino:OTR’s New Wine & Dine

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Had a great “hump day” at LouVino Wednesday night! Cool new spot in OTR that specializes in a big selection of great wines and sharable plates with a southern flare. This is the fourth location for LouVino with two in Louisville and one in Fishers, Indiana. A husband and wife team who have come up with this great concept that may not be “local” but has its own flare. The left side of the actual menu is the same at all the locations, but the right side customized by a local chef.  In our case, we have the husband and wife team of Travis & Sarah Rockwell who say they are excited to work together to create and share their culinary skills.

Great ambiance
Take a look inside LouVino

Inside LouVino

Inside LouVino

Cool ambiance

The vibe is cool. It is a fresh new feel with a definite wine presence and a bar that offers a great selection of over 60 wines “on tap,” by the glass.  They have an open dining area and some fun window seats. And, you can rent two of their special areas for private parties for 12-40 people.

My sister and I tried a few things that I highly recommend.

Warm Brussels Sprout Salad, Bison Stuffed Peppers, Halibut Bibb Cups, Truffle Risotto! The Sliders were recommended from the table next to us ‘cause they looked awesome. But, fair warning, we couldn’t try everything :) (except we found room for the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough stuffed Beignets… OMG yummm)

delicious!

sharable plates

To wash this all down, we both went for the wine flights that all have very clever names. We had the Pete Rosé flight and “Neil Armstrong … Out of this World” flight. You can also opt to get cheeses that they offer with each glass for $2.

"out of this world" flight

 

Things to know:

*1142 Main St.

*Hours – Thursday 5pm-10pm, Friday 5pm-11pm, Saturday 10am-2pm, 5pm-11pm, Sunday 10am-2pm, Monday Closed, Tuesday 5pm-10pm, Wednesday 5pm-10pm.

*They offer Saturday & Sunday Brunch 10am-2pm

*Happy Hour Tuesday- Friday 5pm-6:30pm great drink and food prices!

 

 

Chicago Roadtrip:

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Chicago, Chi-town, Windy City, whatever you want to call it, I just call it plain FUN! Anyone who goes can make their list of fave things, these are just a few of my favorite things I uncovered this summer on a couple road trips. You could literally hit a new spot everyday, but then there are some places you just want to go because they are on your “have to go list”!

Where I ate/drank… (obviously)

Little Goat Diner– 820 W. Randolph St.- This is part of the Goat family such as.. Girl & The Goat, DuckDuck Goat & This Little Goat(online spices) all located in the West Loop. All are fantastic so take a pick. I stopped in for a drink while waiting on our table at Au Cheval. Great cocktails fantastic atmosphere and you can get an early start by going to lunch.

Duck Duck Goat– 857 W. Fulton Market- Wonderfully quirky Chinese part of the Goat family. Fantastic meal and hard to choose.  Thanks to our server, we narrowed it down and had quite a feast! Dumplings are so good totally more than basic and the “slap noodles”, just yum!  And, as you would expect, the cocktails were good, too.

Au Cheval– 800 Randolph St.- Cozy diner feel with a kick-butt cheeseburger… BonAppetit even agrees with me, voting it the best in America! Family friendly, hard to get in so you’ll need a little patience.

RPM Italian– 52 W. Illinois St.- Fantastic Italian restaurant owned by Giuliana & Bill Rancic.

Michael Jordan’s Steak-505N.Michigan Ave.- If you have boys like I do, this is a family pleaser! Honestly, it is a great little spot and worth going off the diet to try the garlic bread with blue cheese..you will be pleasantly surprised.

Gyo-Kaku Japanese BBQ – 1364 W. Randolph St. or 210 E. Ohio- Food and Fun all in one! Good bar area that you can get a bite, but I suggest you eat at a table. It’s an experience because you cook all the food in the center of your table. The upstairs has the traditional tables where you sit in the ground.

RL- Ralph Lauren Bar & Grill– 115 E. Chicago Ave. Absolutely elegant! You feel like your smack dab in one of their ads. Outdoor seating steps from Michigan Ave.

Noyane– 101 E. Erie St.- The name means “hidden roof” in Japanese and if you haven’t caught on.. I love Japanese. Contemporary Japanese and the sushi was amazing and I know that doesn’t sound that exciting, but I mean WOW so good. You cook up wagyu on hot stones at your table. My real reason to go is to get a boozy snowball drink served in a Japanese To Go box.

Where I Brunched 

Kanela Breakfast Club– 502 E. Illinois St. Laid-back atmosphere with delish food.

Beacon Tavern-405 N. Wabash Ave. Great outdoor seating. Right next to the river and the iconic Wrigley Building (one of the many beautiful buildings in this city….. Photo op!)

Pinstripes-435 E. Illinois St.- Huge brunch! Now serving on Saturdays. Seating outside along the river

3 Arts Club Café-Restoration Hardware- 1300 N. Dearborn St. – Ambiance overload!

Where I had a cocktail or two..

Lotties-1925 W. Cortland St. Young crowd or when your just feeling young! This is your neighborhood locals pub and it’s a really good time. Get Josh to make you a good shot!

Soho House– 113-125 North Green St. Some areas of this hotel are members only. There are a couple bar and restaurant areas for we average peeps. The décor is to die for and the cool vibe. The Fox Bar is small and eclectic. The Chicken & Farm Shop is a cool low-key diner style. The Allis– a great cocktail bar with huge windows to keep an eye on the happenings of the streets. They have all day dining and afternoon tea. It’s like bar hopping and all-day dining all in one place and you don’t have to walk very far.

Apogee-2 W. Erie St.- Rooftop of the Dana Hotel- Does have an enclosed area for all weather. Showstopper cocktails for sure… seriously, you have to see some of these drinks!

Booze Box-823 W. Randolph St.- Known as “Japan’s answer to the Irish Pub”. It’s a little basement bar with a hip-hop DJ and a laid-back vibe.

Broken Shaker-19 E. Ohio St.- Really cool diverse space located in the Freehand Hotel. Known for ingenious cocktails and hip unique space with little nooks to sit and sip. Get a drink in the fun golden pineapple.

Birkshire Room-15 E. Ohio St.- Located in yet another hip hotel, The ACME. Serving up great crafted cocktails and an amazing atmosphere.

Where I slept..Hotels

E=MC2– 228 E. Ontario St.- What a scientifically fun hotel! The best part is the robot that delivers anything to your door.. Love it!

The James-55 E. Ontario St.- Fun rooms, good cocktail lounge and the best coffee at the front desk. Get the donuts, you can inject different fillings.

Any of the cool hotels I listed above too!

Stuff I did…Things to do

Sugar Factory.- 55 E. Grant Ave.-This is a must if you’re with young kids. It’s bright and fun with an overdose of… you guessed it SUGAR! Worth going and sharing something.

Two touristy things that are still fun:  boat tours- you never know what’s going on at Navy Pier, so check it out.  The Ferris wheel has a really cool view. I also enjoyed learning more about the architecture one of the boat cruises or the kayak tours on the river..Skydeck- yep, tourist thing and a line but what a great insta pic!

Contemporary Art Museum – Funnnnky fun and really good gift shop. Such a variety of museums, so Google around and check out free days and just enjoy.

Shedd Aquarium– fun for the little ones…and everyone else :)

There are often pop up events and restaurants , so do some research. I happened upon this Happy Place while there this summer and last summer I went to the Rolling Stones exhibit at Navy Pier… so cool!

Lollapolloza– Love music: love this event. So many bands so little time!

Concerts, fireworks, movies all at the Pier during the summer. The airshow is pretty amazing too.

Games- Cubs, White Sox and Bears- I have a family of boys so we do sports (I have learned to join in).  Just  seeing different stadiums is really cool. This summer we missed Cubs, so we took the “L” and went to a White Sox game and it was so fun! Go see Hamilton!

Happy Root Beer Float Day!

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Lucky for all of us in Cincinnati we have the premier spot for the most delicious floats in town!

The Root Beer Stand in Sharonville is the coolest little diner that serves up some great grub including footlong chili dogs and more but obviously specializes in FLOATS!  What makes their floats any different you ask?? Well, lets start with the fact that they have their own water well underground that has water with a different mineral make up.  The root beer is mixed up on site and doesn’t have overwhelming carbonation so the foam doesn’t take over the drink!

The Stand has been around since 1957and is still going strong serving up over 40 gallons of ice cream and sometimes 700-800 gallons of root beer a week and about 600 to 700 footlongs a day with their homemade chili and cheese made fresh daily. It originally opened as an A & W Root Beer and was the hotspot with the travelers because at the time that was the main drag from Michigan to Florida. The same equipment and great ingredients are still used today.. why change it if it ain’t broke :)

It is a business that has only changed hands a couple times and the granddaughter and daughter of the original owners still works the grill! So say hi to Sue when you stop in.

Now that I brought a jug of root beer home it is a hit at my house and I make my sister who lives in Sharonville bring some every time she comes over. They say the best way to enjoy it is served ice cold no ice!

•They have a fantastic baseball hat collection on the wall that started when a trucker came through and left his hat so they hung it up thinking he would see it the next time he came through. Well, a competitor trucker came through and said wait a minute I want my company hat up there and so there it started!

Things to know:

•11566 Reading Rd. Sharonville

•Hours: 10am-9pm Monday –Saturday and 11am-8pm on Sunday

•They have things to do while you wait at the diner counter like Rubik’s cube, barrel of monkeys and other fun stuff.

•It is CASH ONLY! Money machine on site

•There are dining tables out back.

• They have fun swag to buy!

•HURRY it closes for the season on September 16th!