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Dessert and pasta spots

You expect a meal that starts with pasta and ends with a proper dessert, because one without the other feels incomplete.

Based on 665 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.

Vodka and lemon pastas stand out with rich, vibrant flavors. The truffle prosciutto pasta pairs well with brussel sprouts for a savory touch.

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."

"The service here made me love dining at this place."

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
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.

Layers of homemade pasta and cheese create a crispy vegetarian lasagna with a flavorful sauce. This dish offers a modern take on traditional comfort food.

People are saying

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

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

"The crispy lasagna pasta was delicious and browned."

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.

03
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 dishes stand out with carbonara and meat sauce versions praised for flavor. Lasagna with meat sauce and chicken fettuccine Alfredo offer hearty options alongside Chicago stuffed pizza.

People are saying

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

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

"The chicken fettuccine Alfredo was really amazing."

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.

04
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.

Gluten-free options cater well to Celiac needs with safe, amazing pasta. House made pasta shines, especially the pistachio pasta and clam linguine with pork jowl, all perfectly cooked.

People are saying

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

"The Pistachio Pasta here absolutely stole the show."

"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.

05
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.

Ravioli stands out as a solid choice among appetizers. The pasta dishes here show a clear focus on quality and flavor.

People are saying

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

"The pasta here has an amazing view."

"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.

06
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.

Cajun chicken pasta appears often on the menu and serves as a main entree. Other options include the Animal Farm and That's What Brie Said pastas, though the overall pasta quality rates as average.

People are saying

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

"The churro dessert was to die for."

"I loved the Cajun Chicken Pasta so much."

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.

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.

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

Pasta dishes come piping hot and include options like spaghetti and meatballs and a butternut squash ravioli with scallops, shrimp, and lobster tails in a light sauce. The ravioli offers a filling meal with a delicate seafood touch.

People are saying

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

"The pasta here is amazing, and the service is so attentive."

"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.

08
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 fillings like ricotta in the cannelloni. The pesto malloreddus stands out for its expertly cooked texture and flavor, matching high standards.

People are saying

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

"The pesto pasta was expertly cooked and presented."

"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.

09
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.

Fettuccine Alfredo stands out with a rich, next-level flavor. The spaghetti sauce tastes very authentic, and the lasagna ranks among the best. Pasta and sauces are made from scratch here.

People are saying

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

"This Fettuccine Alfredo pasta is flavorful and incredible."

"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.

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Cincinnati, Ohio

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