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Bars with Italian food in Cincinnati

You want an Italian dinner that doesn't force you to leave the bar scene behind.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bourbon's Craft Kitchen & Bar image 1
Bourbon's Craft Kitchen & Bar image 2
Bourbon's Craft Kitchen & Bar image 3
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Bar and grill with luxe, cozy decor and street-level views creates a visually engaging atmosphere. Music varies from pleasant background tunes to loud DJ sets that can overwhelm conversation. Outdoor seating offers a small, relaxed space for enjoying city views and cigars.

Gorgeous bar features unique decor and offers a great spot for cocktails and appetizers. Early arrival helps secure a bar seat with attentive service enhancing the experience.

Burrata appetizer stands out as a favorite, paired with beef and short rib ragu that impresses with rich flavors. Both vodka and lemon pastas offer distinct, memorable tastes.

People are saying

"I was skeptical about the truffle burger, but it was one of the best."

"The bar's wings with Grippo crust were divine."

"I was skeptical about the truffle burger, but it was one of the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Automatic gratuity is added for large tables, so be aware when dining with a group.

02
The Davidson image 1
Restaurant

High ceilings and an open concept create a spacious feel despite narrow table spacing. Warm lighting and abundant plants contribute to a charming, inviting atmosphere that balances lively energy with moments of quiet in the bar booths. The space suits both social evenings and casual people watching.

Seating at the bar happens quickly, even without a reservation. Drinks pair well with Clams Casino, creating a solid bar experience.

Pasta dishes come out absolutely perfect with rich, saucy cannelloni filled with ricotta for cheese lovers. Pesto malloreddus and roasted eggplant starters show expert cooking and presentation.

People are saying

"The eggplant appetizer is a must-try for date spots."

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was amazing."

"The bartenders here are so friendly and knowledgeable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday between 4-6pm and Friday to Sunday from 11am to 6pm.

2

There is paid parking with EV charging available right beside the restaurant.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is often available at the bar.

03
Goodfellas Pizzeria - OTR image 1

1920s speakeasy theme shapes a small pizza restaurant with a top-end bourbon bar upstairs and rustic lounge seating. Atmosphere blends great music and a lovely outdoor space allowing eating, drinking, and smoking. Pizza ranks among the best in town, served quickly in a chill environment with lively energy.

Upstairs offers a top-end bar with a decent variety of drinks on tap and an impressive array of liquor. Staff like Harrison, Sean, and Brandon provide helpful recommendations and attentive service.

Pizza stands out with a rich marinara sauce and excellent breadsticks. The cannoli matches quality found in New York City, and pasta salad complements the Italian offerings well.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I ever had."

"I loved getting pizza here; it's the place to go."

"The Italian food here has massive pizza slices and breadsticks."

Good to know

1

They offer 50% off on their 12-inch pies every Monday.

2

The lunch special is a fantastic value.

3

Parking is available just down the block or through street parking.

04
Something to Wine About image 1

Wine bar offers a grown-up lounge vibe with beautiful, stylish dรฉcor that invites photos. Music ranges from live performances to DJ sets, creating an intimate, lively atmosphere. Features include a self-serve wine dispenser and a stage for entertainment, attracting groups and casual visitors alike.

Great art and design set a grown-up, chill lounge vibe. The wine list features amazing, unique choices and the drinks are beautifully crafted.

Rasta pasta with chicken offers a flavorful and satisfying experience. The jerk chicken pasta and shrimp pasta come with a romaine salad, though the jerk chicken pasta sometimes arrives lukewarm.

People are saying

"The decor here is so gorgeous and photogenic."

"This bar's decor is gorgeous and totally IG-worthy."

"The Rasta Pasta here is full of flavor and a must-try."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first-come, first-served.

2

The venue is open until 1AM on weekends, despite Google listing midnight.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

05
Salazar Cincinnati image 1

Mediterranean small plates fill an intimate space with an elevated but chill atmosphere and buzzy energy near an open kitchen. Comfortable seating and a beautiful, farm-inspired design create an inviting setting, while music and creative cocktails add to the vibe. Noise levels vary from lively to subdued depending on seating area.

Attentive service creates a welcoming atmosphere. The bar feels unassuming, relaxing, and comfortable to sit at.

Gnocchi stands out with intricate, savory flavors and a delicate texture. Mezzi rigatoni offers a rich yet bright balance featuring blue crab, preserved lemon, and Brussels sprouts in a French-inspired sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly cooked."

"I dare say this Italian food is the best I've ever had."

"The cocktails here are perfectly balanced and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch.

2

Parking options are available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours.

3

The menu features a variety of seafood dishes along with other options.

06
Adriatico's image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant combines brew pub style with a sports bar vibe, featuring numerous TVs showing games. Atmosphere feels lively and cozy, attracting a college crowd and families alike. Space is used efficiently to fit many tables, creating a busy and fun environment.

Craft beers fill the bar, creating a brew pub style environment that blends a sports bar vibe with a family-friendly feel. Bar staff handle orders quickly and even chase down forgotten credit cards outside.

Parmesan breadsticks come warm, fluffy, and coated in cheese, often paired with garlic butter for dipping. The pesto base pizza and veggie lasagna offer solid Italian options, while the fried mozzarella stands out as a notable appetizer.

People are saying

"I thought the Sicilian style pizza was the best in town."

"You have to try the Italian food; the pizza and breadsticks are great."

"The pizza at this bar is excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking at Adriatico's is limited; consider using the garage across the street.

2

They charge $2 for paper plates, which may be unexpected.

3

Expect a wait for pickup orders; time estimates can be inaccurate.

07
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurant image 1

Elegant space with dim lighting and comfortable seating creates an upscale yet approachable vibe. The atmosphere is loud and energetic, often crowded with closely spaced tables. A wine-forward focus includes a spacious tasting bar offering free samples of barrel reserve wines.

The bar offers a well-designed tasting area that suits wine sampling. Bartenders like Desiree and Morgan provide excellent, accommodating service for a quieter, more intimate experience.

Butternut squash ravioli with seafood stands out alongside three cheese and Italian sausage arancini. The menu features gnocchi with spicy sausage in vodka sauce and premium steak and seafood options.

People are saying

"The wine staff here is so knowledgeable and personable."

"The bar staff here are always friendly and accommodating."

"The Italian food here is amazing, and the service is so prompt."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The tasting bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

08
Strong's Brick Oven Pizzeria image 1

Big brick oven dominates an open, modern space with a clean, welcoming vibe. Noise levels run extremely loud, making conversation difficult. Friendly staff serve phenomenal pizza and house-made lager.

Offers a local bar vibe with a bar in the back serving cocktails and appetizers. Service at the bar side is friendly and attentive.

Pizzas feature super fresh ingredients with generous pepperoni and thick Italian sausage chunks. The menu includes bruschetta, pesto cheese flatbread, and cannolis that stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's pizza has a great crust and is loaded with toppings."

"The pizzas here are fantastic with rich flavors."

"The pizza here is fantastic, truly the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The lunch special from Tuesday through Friday for $13 is a good deal.

2

Expect a 15-20 minute wait during peak lunch hours.

3

You cannot order pickup online; only call for takeout.

09
Goodfellas Pizzeria - Pleasant Ridge image 1

Pizza restaurant combines upstairs speakeasy bar with outdoor balcony patio for a relaxed vibe. Atmosphere shifts from warm and inviting inside to incredible back patio vibes outside. Frequented by those who enjoy top-notch pizza paired with craft cocktails and bourbon tastings upstairs.

Upstairs offers a speakeasy style bar with a small balcony patio. Drinks are really good and the atmosphere suits hanging out or watching the game.

Pizza and breadsticks come with a homemade, hearty marinara sauce that tastes like it has simmered for hours. The cannolis stand out as extremely delicious, and the pesto bread is exceptionally good.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I ever had."

"The upstairs bar has an incredible atmosphere and holiday decor."

"I thought the pizza here was the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Goodfellas offers different food and drink specials every night.

2

Parking can be tricky, so plan ahead.

3

There is typically a 30 to 50-minute wait at most.

10
Mt. Adams Bar & Grill image 1

Old-fashioned speakeasy style with stained glass windows and antique collections creates a cozy, historic vibe. Multiple levels include a lower bar area and dining spaces with natural light, offering an intimate yet spacious feel. Atmosphere blends upscale class with a comfortable, relaxed energy.

Friendly and attentive staff create a welcoming vibe at the bar. The space features stained glass and antique collections, adding unique character. Drinks can be enjoyed inside or carried out to the next-door cocktail bar.

Fried ravioli, especially the jalapeรฑo and cheese varieties, stands out as a popular choice. Pasta dishes feature firm noodles but sometimes come with slightly overcooked vegetables and lack spices.

People are saying

"It's a cute pub with a great atmosphere and cool decor."

"You'll love the historic charm and atmosphere here."

"The Italian Food here feels like stepping back into a 40's tavern with all the antique decorations."

Good to know

1

Parking at the restaurant can be challenging; consider using the nearby paid garage.

2

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

11
Al'Lupo Ristorante image 1

Dining inside an old pottery mill with tables in historic kilns creates a unique setting. The atmosphere is lively and loud, yet guests can still converse easily. Outdoor seating offers city views, and the bar curves around the kiln, adding to the distinctive vibe.

A curved bar wraps around the main kiln of the historic Rookwood Pottery factory, creating an outstanding first impression. The atmosphere at the bar feels inviting and unique.

Pasta dishes like clam linguine and pork jowl stand out with perfect cooking and rich flavors. The Bucatini Carbonara offers a creamy sauce with crispy guanciale, delivering classic comfort food. Desserts include a unique sweet potato tiramisu that finishes the meal well.

People are saying

"I love the Italian food here; it feels like a blessing."

"The Caesar salad was missing key components, like fingerling potatoes."

"The bar curved around the kiln, creating an outstanding first impression."

Good to know

1

Reservations are definitely recommended to ensure a table.

2

Being able to pay by the QR code on the receipt allows for quick departures.

3

The restaurant offers a non-fried option for calamari, which is a rare choice.

12
Pennyflower American Bistro & Bar image 1

Space combines tasteful design, beautiful furniture, and wonderful mosaic floors with private semi-circular booths and a communal table. Atmosphere feels chill and funky, suitable for dates or casual lunches, though music can be loud at times. Lighting includes individual LED table lights bright enough to read menus comfortably.

Outstanding service shines at the bar, especially from Olivia. The spot offers a cocktail-focused experience that draws people in even if they skip the full meal.

Carbonara Croquettes offer a crispy outside with a rich, silky inside. The Crispy Vegetable Lasagna layers homemade pasta, cheese, and flavorful sauce for a modern twist on a classic dish.

People are saying

"The S'mores dessert is nostalgic and creative."

"The Italian food, especially the crispy lasagna, is amazing."

"The chef's ambitious talents really impressed my taste buds."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend dinner service.

2

The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.

3

Lunch is not served on Saturdays and Sundays.

13
Rusk Kitchen + Bar image 1

Space includes intimate upstairs and downstairs areas plus a rooftop patio with fire pits and a bar. Atmosphere blends live solo guitar music with sports on TV and good background tunes. Crowd enjoys relaxed dining and drinks, often lingering into evening hours.

Upstairs features a rooftop bar and patio that stand out as great spots for meals or happy hour. Staff are friendly and attentive, making accommodations easily and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Animal Farm and Chicken pasta stands out as a popular to-go order. The Cajun Alfredo offers a tasty twist on a classic Italian dish.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious, especially the Cajun chicken pasta."

"The bar staff were so attentive and accommodating."

"I loved the rich and satisfying Cajun Chicken Alfredo."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 6pm on weekdays with drink specials.

2

Gumbo is served on Tuesdays, a must-try for fans of the dish.

3

The venue is cashless; only credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

14
The Filson Queen City Kitchen & Bar image 1

Large patio offers breathtaking river views and dog-friendly outdoor seating with fire pits. Energetic atmosphere fills the space, especially during sports games shown on wall-to-wall TVs. Seating is crowded and lively, creating an upscale yet bustling vibe for fans and diners alike.

Outdoor seating offers a great view and a relaxed vibe. Bar staff provide attentive service and helpful recommendations, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Crispy yet tender crust and fresh mozzarella stand out on the Margarita Pizza. The bourbon street pasta features well-cooked penne with a flavorful sauce, and the Cajun pasta offers a spicy twist.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the burgers and fries; they were cooked perfectly."

"The bar staff are so friendly and attentive, making every visit enjoyable."

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the pizza and chicken."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during busy events.

2

Happy hour offers $2 off craft beers and $10 food specials.

3

Thursday Martini day features $6 martinis, a great deal for cocktail lovers.

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Cincinnati, Ohio

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