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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Cincinnati

Dessert and Italian food

You want an Italian meal that finishes with a traditional dessert, because the end of the meal matters just as much as the main course.

Based on 702 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.

Desserts include a waffle with salted caramel ice cream shared at the table. Special occasions get a dessert on the house or a birthday dessert that stands out.

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 desserts here are decadent; some people even licked the bowl."

"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
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.

House-made ice cream melts with layers of yumminess. Warm fresh cookies finish the night with a terrific touch.

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 desserts here were quite memorable and terrific."

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.

03
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.

Pot de Creme stands out as a dessert option. Dessert offerings appear after the main meal, though a full dessert menu may not always be available.

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."

"I loved the scallops; they were fantastic."

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.

04
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.

Desserts come with gelato that is mostly melted. Service for dessert is extremely slow, including water refills and drinks.

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

"I took enough delicious desserts home for another meal."

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.

05
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.

Desserts include a creative s'mores interpretation that blends nostalgia with an elevated twist. They often offer generous complimentary desserts, sometimes adding extras for special occasions.

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."

"This lunch spot's menu reflects the chef's incredible culinary journey."

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

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.

06
Primavista image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Fine dining restaurant offers stunning city skyline views that create a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere. The space feels warm and elegant, with an outstanding bar complementing the experience. It attracts diners looking for a special occasion setting with memorable scenery.

Desserts come with the meal and pair well with appetizers and wine. The cost stays reasonable considering the quality of food, dessert, and the view.

Pasta dishes stand out here, with ravioli served as a solid appetizer. The cioppino offers a flavorful seafood option without pasta. Bruschetta also features as a tasty starter.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and wonderful."

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta and gnocchi, is amazing."

"The Tuscan Brownie dessert was delish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends when it gets busy.

2

The restaurant offers stunning views, particularly at sunset around 8 PM.

3

Expect to pay a premium for the atmosphere and views.

07
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.

Chocolate torte stands out as rich and decadent. Churro dessert offers a great, satisfying finish.

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."

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

"The churro dessert was to die for."

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.

08
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.

Sweet potato tiramisu stands out as a dessert recommendation. Staff sometimes offer an extra dessert for celebrations, adding a nice touch.

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 calamari's tender, feather-light breading is unforgettable."

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.

09
Werkhaus Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, local pizza shop with a homey, cozy atmosphere and lively energy when busy. Tables fill quickly in a somewhat crowded, nostalgic space that feels like an Italian friend's dining room. Known for authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza and a strong family vibe.

House-made desserts stand out with their appealing display and great taste. Cheesecake and other sweets are all fantastic and worth saving room for.

Spaghetti carbonara and lasagna with meat sauce stand out for their rich flavors. Deep dish pizzas, chicken fettuccine Alfredo, and cheesy breadsticks add variety alongside classic spaghetti with meatballs and sausage.

People are saying

"You should save room for the delicious desserts here."

"I found the deep dish pizza to be delicious and filling."

"The Chicago style pizza here is a family favorite."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited and fills up quickly, so arrive early.

2

A buy one, get one half off deal is available on medium and large pizzas.

3

Expect to take home leftovers as portions are generous.

10
Vivaldi Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy ambiance with live jazz trio setting a romantic mood. Space features small tables and walls decorated mostly with AI-generated art. Guests enjoy authentic Italian dishes alongside unique seasonal menus and specialty drinks.

Gelato stands out as the main dessert, with new flavors introduced weekly. The dessert menu also offers allergy-friendly options, which is uncommon.

Gnocchi stands out for its texture and flavor. Fettuccine Alfredo and lasagna come with rich, authentic sauces made from scratch. The focaccia appetizer is light and fluffy, and the cannoli offers a sweet finish.

People are saying

"The food here is hot, flavorful, and generously portioned."

"The Italian food here is delicious and authentic."

"I found the meatballs to be the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is a good idea, especially for more than 2 people.

2

Live jazz music is featured on Thursday nights, enhancing the dining experience.

3

Fridays and Saturdays feature the best jazz in an intimate setting.

11
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant image 1

Large space resembles a museum or maze with unique artwork and half-naked pictures on every wall. Atmosphere feels fun and chaotic with low lighting, narrow halls, and cramped seating. Groups enjoy special rooms with features like lazy Susans and themed decor.

Generous dessert portions arrive at the end of meals, including large birthday desserts and special anniversary treats. Desserts are consistently perfect and well enjoyed.

Eggplant parmesan comes with sauce on the side, making it easy to freeze leftovers. Alfredo sauce is thick and creamy, rich enough to eat multiple portions alone.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the staff remembered us."

"The Italian food here is excellent, and the staff remembers you."

"The service here is wonderful and attentive."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large parties or special occasions.

2

Expect to pay dinner prices during lunchtime on Saturdays.

3

Portion sizes are family-style, so come hungry or plan to share.

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