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Italian dinner spots in Cincinnati

A full dinner that captures the spirit of an Italian evening without the pretension that usually comes with the price tag.

Based on 764 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.

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.

Offers a versatile atmosphere suitable for date nights, family dinners, or group celebrations. Serves as a popular spot for special occasions and casual drinks downtown.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here are delicious and fantastic."

"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.

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.

Dinner offers a refined but light atmosphere suited for date nights or casual meals. The tuna salad niรงoise stands out as a beautiful and delicious choice, and seating for groups is available without long waits.

People are saying

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

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

"The pork chop here is juicy, thick-cut, and packed with flavor."

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
The Wheel image 1
Takeout Restaurant

Old house setting creates an intimate, family-style atmosphere with a long communal table. Weekend takeout and select pop-up dinners offer Italian-inspired dishes featuring fresh local ingredients and delicate pasta. Food arrives on schedule, emphasizing a chef-driven menu without traditional ordering.

Homemade pasta dishes stand out with delicate textures and well-balanced flavors. The ravioli with northern Italian cheese on butternut squash puree and brown butter shines alongside a 6-hour braised pork shoulder with ricotta gnocchi in a sauce featuring Calabrian chilis.

Dinners focus on carry-out only on weekends and pop-up events on select days. Private dinners offer a more intimate experience with carefully prepared meals.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta dishes here are absolutely delicious."

"I will be dreaming of the fantastic bread here."

"The homemade pasta dishes were absolutely delicious Italian food."

Good to know

1

The Wheel hosts pop-up dinners on select days, offering a unique dining experience.

2

Carry-out is only available on weekends, so plan accordingly.

3

The cost for the pop-up dinner is $100 per person, which includes a multi-course meal.

04
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.

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.

Dinner offers a memorable experience with options suitable for both casual and business gatherings. The atmosphere supports group dinners and special occasions like birthdays.

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.

05
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.

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.

Dinner ordering turns into a lively show with bantering and suggestions. Staff know exactly what works for a late night dinner. Great spot for a meal before heading to the theater.

People are saying

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

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

"These dinner spots serve massive, phenomenal pizza slices."

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.

06
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.

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.

Dinner here features American bistro dishes with notable appetizers. Celebrations like birthdays happen in a casual setting. Some appetizers stand out enough to change dinner plans.

People are saying

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

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

"Chef Jacob's innovative touches make these dinner spots impressive."

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.

07
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.

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.

Dinner here offers a delicious and tasty experience suitable for special occasions like anniversaries and rehearsal dinners. It works well for both intimate romantic meals and gatherings with groups.

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 dinner spots here have an amazing view."

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.

08
Chef Nem Kitchen To-Go image 1

Takeout-only restaurant offers a small, cool space with unique patron artwork and a welcoming vibe. Loud music sometimes makes ordering difficult, but the bottled house drinks add a distinct touch. Parking is limited, and wait times can be long due to careful preparation.

Lamb chop Alfredo stands out as a rich, flavorful dish. The Cajun Pasta offers a spicy twist, especially with shrimp and lobster, delivering a creamy, satisfying meal.

Dinners include Lamb Chops with Alfredo and Whiting Fish served with sides like macaroni and cheese or greens. Multiple dinners can be ordered for takeout, offering good food at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"The food here is great, seasoned perfectly and full of flavor."

"The Alfredo here is amazing, especially the lamb chop version."

"The whiting dinner was crispy, seasoned perfectly, and amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 30-60 minutes for food preparation.

2

Parking is extremely limited and can be difficult to find.

3

The fish fry is served every Friday and is very popular.

09
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.

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.

Dinner comes quickly even on a Sunday. Portions for salad and dinner are significant. Pizza stands out enough to make even non-pizza fans crave it. Pre-game dinners work well here.

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."

"I found the pizza here to be awesome, truly divine."

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.

10
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.

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.

Offers a great family dinner experience with a welcoming atmosphere. Suitable for both lunch and dinner visits.

People are saying

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

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

"The food here is delicious, especially the pizza."

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.

11
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.

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.

New York style pizza stands out for dinner with a fun environment suited for group dinners and watching sports. The spot works well for dinner, drinks, or casual gatherings, though the pizza leans more toward lunch fare.

People are saying

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

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

"I enjoyed a great pizza dinner here."

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.

12
Nonstopflavor image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers bold Jamaican flavors with large portions and fair prices. Atmosphere feels cool but loud, creating an energetic vibe. Lines and waits are common, reflecting steady demand.

Shrimp and chicken pasta dishes come with rich seasoning and bold flavors. The chicken rasta pasta stands out for its distinctive taste.

Jerk salmon and jerk chicken dinners come with rice and cabbage. The oxtail dinner costs $25 and sometimes includes plantains, though plantains are not always served with the meals.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and very flavorful."

"I had the jerk salmon dinner multiple times."

"The chicken and shrimp pasta here is seasoned so well."

Good to know

1

The price of the jerk chicken meal increased to 39 dollars.

2

They now charge 13 dollars for mac and cheese.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours.

13
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.

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.

Dinner happens on a patio or inside with large groups. Drinks and meals fit well before or after a game near the banks.

People are saying

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

"I loved the chicken sandwich and the trout dip at these dinner spots."

"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.

14
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.

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.

Cozy atmosphere suits any occasion with well-priced Barolo wine that pairs well with dinner. The owner shares the building's history, adding a personal touch to the experience.

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 service for dinner spots was stellar and amazing."

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.

15
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.

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.

Dinner offers phenomenal food with an exceptional tasting bar experience throughout the service. The overall dinner is amazing, though lunch tends to be better.

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.

16
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.

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.

Offers a nice dinner experience with a menu suitable for both lunch and dinner.

People are saying

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

"The cheesy breadsticks at these dinner spots are great."

"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.

17
Tonyโ€™s Family Italian Restaurant image 1

Small, quaint Italian diner with cozy atmosphere and intimate seating. Clean and simple space offers an old school charm with a casual, homey vibe. Limited seating fills quickly, creating a quiet, relaxed energy.

Lobster ravioli stands out as a revelation, paired with chicken parmesan that impresses with its flavor. Desserts like tiramisu and cannoli also shine alongside a variety of terrific pasta options.

Dinner offers delicious Italian dishes served in a family-friendly setting. The atmosphere suits casual gatherings with friends or family.

People are saying

"The cheese tortellini here is excellent and flavorful."

"The Italian food here is amazing and flavorful."

"The dinner sauces here are thick and flavorful."

Good to know

1

They do not accept reservations, so arrive early to secure a table.

2

Expect a short wait during busy times like Father's Day.

3

You can bring your own wine with no corking fee.

18
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.

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.

Family-style Italian dinners come in large portions meant for sharing. Wait staff like Ana and Ashlee provide personalized service that makes group dinners special. The menu includes dishes like eggplant parmesan with sauce on the side for easy leftovers.

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 staff made our dinner spots festive and special."

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.

19
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.

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.

Dinner features Animal Farm and Chicken pasta dishes that stand out. Food quality stays consistent and satisfies groups well.

People are saying

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

"The staff here makes dinner spots feel so warm and inviting."

"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.

20
Logan's Roadhouse image 1

Packed steakhouse with cozy booths and dim lighting creates a laid-back, lively atmosphere. Sports play on TVs, adding to the fun, light-hearted vibe. Seating suits large groups, though space between tables is tight.

Alfredo dishes like chicken and sausage or steak stand out with rich flavors. Pasta options include penne and Cajun blackened chicken, though the spice level is mild.

Dinner features delicious meals and personalized service with the manager checking in after the meal. Meeting the server Gabby stands out as a memorable part of the experience.

People are saying

"The service at these dinner spots is fantastic and attentive."

"Emanuel handled our large party like a champion."

"I thought the Italian food here was delicious."

Good to know

1

A special menu is available from 3 to 6 PM.

2

Reservations for large groups are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

Expect a one-hour wait for a table during peak hours.

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