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Cincinnati's best

Ribs and food

When you crave ribs, you want them done right and you want them served without compromise.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated April 2026
01
Montgomery Towne Tavern image 1
Montgomery Towne Tavern image 2
Montgomery Towne Tavern image 3
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Small, intimate bar with a dark, home-like atmosphere and a neighborhood suburban vibe. Frequented by locals, it offers lots of TVs, a pool table, and steel tip darts for casual games. Outdoor patio provides a cozy space to relax despite its claustrophobic walls.

Ribs come out amazing and pair well with sides like tots and potato salad. They stand out as some of the best in town.

Food arrives fresh and hot, made to order. Huge wings come smoked to perfection, and burgers are very good. Service pairs well with great drinks and a lively bar atmosphere.

People are saying

"You have to try the wings; they're smoked to perfection."

"The smoked wings here are amazing, especially with all the sauce options."

"I found the ribs here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak lunch hours on weekends.

2

The venue is located at the far left end of the strip shopping center.

3

House-made sauces are available to complement your meal.

02
Blue Goose Sports Cafe image 1

Small town bar atmosphere with dim lighting and many TVs showing various sports creates a lively, inviting vibe. Crowds gather especially during lunch and evenings, fostering a local hangout feel similar to Cheers. Unique goose-style art and a fully stocked bar add character to the space.

Ribs fall right off the bone with tender texture and amazing flavor. Baby back ribs come with a side salad and fries, making a solid meal.

Food comes fresh and homemade with plentiful portions and consistently great quality. Service stays excellent even when busy, making every meal enjoyable with cold beer alongside.

People are saying

"The bar has plenty of options on tap."

"I thought the food here was excellent."

"I thought the ribs here were the best I've had in years."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tight when they are busy.

2

Expect a wait if arriving during peak times.

3

They offer a small discount if paid with cash.

03
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.

Short ribs come tender and flavorful, often served with savory sauces and mushrooms. Braised versions arrive over velvety polenta with rich accompaniments like guanciale and gravy.

Authentic Italian fare shines with every bite, rich in flavor and made to savor. Attentive staff enhances the experience, making the meal feel special and the ambiance delightful.

People are saying

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

"The food here is amazing, especially the pizza and carbonara."

"The short rib was tender and flavorful, outstanding."

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.

04
Bee's Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small, quaint barbecue spot with outdoor picnic tables on a semi-level stone area and smoky atmosphere that lingers on clothes. Loudspeaker calls names for orders, and seating is limited to outside with no indoor options. The vibe is relaxed with a real smoker adding authentic flavor to the food.

Ribs come with a great dry rub and fall off the bone with tender, meaty texture. They hold up well without sauce but pair nicely with a flavorful one.

Brisket and mac and cheese stand out as favorites. The food keeps its flavor even after traveling hours and consistently impresses with its incredible quality.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket and ribs, is amazing."

"I thought the food here was amazing and great."

"These ribs fell off the bone and didn't even need sauce."

Good to know

1

Carry-out only with limited outdoor seating available when weather permits.

2

Reservations are not accepted; arrive early as they sell out quickly.

3

The restaurant operates for only 5 hours a day, so plan accordingly.

05
Good Thangz Cookin image 1

Open kitchen reveals fresh soul food preparation in a clean, orderly space with a homey, backyard barbecue vibe. Mostly takeout with limited seating and parking, it draws a steady lunchtime crowd. Signature dishes include collard greens, salmon fries, and hot honey chicken sandwich.

Ribs come extremely tender and falling off the bone. Options include rib tips and boneless ribs smothered in sauce, often paired with sides like garlic mashed potatoes and macaroni cheese.

Food here tastes like genuine soul food, with dishes like Mac and Cheese and mashed potatoes standing out. Everything feels fresh and home-cooked, delivering consistently excellent flavors.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and fresh."

"The apple cobbler here is amazing, not too sugary."

"The ribs just fell off the bone."

Good to know

1

Order ahead to avoid a wait.

2

The parking lot can get limited around the lunchtime rush.

3

The restaurant is small with limited seating, so it's not really a place to eat in.

06
Ron's Roost image 1
American restaurant

Spacious American restaurant with large open dining area and walls covered in memorabilia creates a cheery and inviting atmosphere. A full service bar and outdoor seating add to the relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Plenty of TV screens show sports, making it a casual spot for groups and families.

Ribs here stand out with a 3/4 slab size that suits a healthy eater and a flavor that rivals southern BBQ. The BBQ ribs pair well with hot slaw and complement the fried chicken offerings.

Food comes out hot and fast with consistently delicious flavors. Portions are filling and prices stay reasonable.

People are saying

"I thought the fried chicken here was great."

"I found this local spot to be a great hidden gem."

"The food here is fantastic and always top-notch."

Good to know

1

The buffet on Friday to Sunday costs $15.99 for all-you-can-eat salad and fried chicken.

2

Reservations are not needed for parties of six or fewer.

3

Expect a 20-minute wait if arriving after 6 PM on weekends.

07
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.

KY Sticky Ribs offer a very tasty, sticky flavor and come with sides like seasoned broccoli for $8. The KY Bourbon ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and flavorful.

Food offers a great variety with consistently amazing quality and excellent service. The menu pairs well with a solid selection of beers, creating a true local vibe.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor space here is beautiful with a great patio."

"The food here was really great and delicious."

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.

08
All In One Occasions image 1

Small restaurant with attached bar offers a cozy, family-oriented atmosphere and comfortable seating. Music plays to enhance the laid-back vibe where groups gather and chat. Known for expertly prepared soul food, especially standout mac and cheese and fried pork chops.

Ribs come with BBQ sauce and have a tender texture, though some find them less tender than expected. They taste like they were boiled but remain soft.

Food features excellent soul food with perfectly spiced flavors and generous portions. The dishes deliver great taste and consistently strong flavor profiles.

People are saying

"I experienced some of the best food I have ever had."

"The American food here, especially the mac and cheese, is the best I've ever had."

"I loved the ribs with BBQ sauce."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for carry-out orders to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has been family-owned and operated for over 20 years.

3

Expect higher prices for individual sides compared to main dishes.

09
Pigskins Bar and Grill image 1

Bar and grill with live music and multiple big TVs creates a lively, sports-focused atmosphere. Decor is trendy and newly remodeled, featuring a large wooden bar. Outdoor area offers a children's play space, making it welcoming for families.

Full slabs of ribs come in large portions. The ribs pair well with brisket and a variety of sides for a hearty meal. Sampling multiple dishes is common to cover different flavors.

Ribs stand out as a highlight with great flavor and tenderness. The menu offers a wide array of dishes that consistently deliver excellent quality and satisfy large groups.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the brisket and pulled pork, is delicious."

"The food here is delicious and very good."

"I really enjoyed the ribs here; they were so good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but seating is limited during peak hours.

2

The kitchen may run out of popular items like steak and brisket.

3

Expect a surcharge for credit card payments; cash may offer discounts.

10
Sweets & Meats BBQ Restaurant - Avondale image 1

Barbecue restaurant offers a clean, spacious setting with comfortable seating and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The vibe is inviting and homey, with bright, well-maintained decor. It draws people looking for scratch-made barbecue and a relaxed dining experience.

Ribs come out tender and perfectly cooked, with rib tips that fall off the bone and have great seasoning. The smoke level stays balanced, keeping the ribs juicy without overpowering.

Food features huge portions and freshly made dishes even close to closing time. Rib tips, brisket sandwich, greens, and baked beans stand out for their amazing flavor and consistent quality.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and full of flavor."

"The American food here is amazing; I thought every dish was delicious."

"The rib tips were perfectly seasoned and fell off the bone."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7 PM and turns off their grills before 6 PM.

2

Catering services are available for events like weddings.

3

Expect large portions that justify the pricing.

11
Kitty's Sports Grill image 1

Divey sports bar with an old-fashioned, charming interior and massive smoker outside creates a warm, welcoming vibe where fans in competing jerseys mingle comfortably. Multiple TVs surround the space, though not all are always in use, and the game volume stays low in dining areas. Known for best wings in Cincinnati and excellent BBQ, it balances cozy atmosphere with lively energy during games.

Smoked ribs fall off the bone with tender meat. Wings and ribs stand out as best I've had in a long time and are a must-try when available.

Food stands out with immaculate textures and bold flavors. Pulled pork sandwich and hand-cut fries deliver amazing taste that challenges expectations.

People are saying

"The food here is so good it makes you question everything."

"The service during Live Sports is always super friendly."

"I thought the ribs were the best I've had in a long time."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arrive early to secure a spot on game days.

2

The bar has a maximum capacity, ensuring a comfortable experience without overcrowding.

3

The menu features a variety of BBQ options, all smoked on a genuine Lang BBQ Smoker.

12
Eli's BBQ โ€‹- Findlay image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small carryout-only barbecue spot with generous portions and phenomenal ribs featuring amazing BBQ sauce. Atmosphere is friendly and chill, with limited seating inside and some public tables outside. Menu is limited but offers standout items like pulled pork sandwiches and smoked turkey.

Ribs come tender with excellent smoky flavors that often don't need extra sauce. Options include rib tips and slabs, both praised for being phenomenal and sometimes considered the best in Cincinnati.

Hot dogs topped with pulled pork, slaw, and BBQ sauce stand out with rich flavors. Food consistently offers tasty dishes and fair portion sizes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be absolutely delicious."

"The ribs here have excellent smoky flavors and a good dry rub."

"I found the ribs here to be the best I could find anywhere."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only offers carryout; there is no dine-in option.

2

Expect limited menu choices at this location.

3

There is no seating inside the restaurant, but outdoor seating is available nearby.

13
LongHorn Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse features typical chain decor with a warm and inviting atmosphere that can become loud during busy times. The space often feels crowded and close, with little separation between tables. The vibe shifts from pleasant and peaceful when quiet to noisy and bustling during celebrations.

Ribs come in a very tender style but can also be served warm and dry. They often pair with sides like mac and cheese or mashed potatoes.

Food here is consistently excellent with perfectly cooked steaks and well-prepared vegetables. Portions are generous and the food is ready quickly when ordered online.

People are saying

"The steak here is so tender and juicy, it melts in your mouth."

"The food here is amazing and perfectly cooked."

"I found the ribs to be very tender and amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for parties larger than 10 to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect a wait of up to an hour during peak dinner hours on weekends.

3

Online payment options are available for quick and easy transactions.

14
Just Q'in BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers a stylish, modern dining room inside a classy old building with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Neo-Soul music plays softly, and a back patio provides space for gatherings. The place is known for exceptional brisket and a community-centered vibe.

Ribs have a well-seasoned bark that stands out without needing extra sauce. The meat is consistently delicious and tender, matching the quality of the brisket and sides.

Food shows high quality and great taste overall. Coleslaw stands out as an exception, not matching the rest.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the brisket, is amazing."

"I found the food here to be great."

"The ribs here are delicious, especially with the greens."

Good to know

1

They often run out of ribs and chicken by evening.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours.

3

There is extra parking available in the back.

15
City Barbeque image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Smoked barbecue aroma fills a spacious, comfortable setting with outdoor seating and cool blues music playing softly. Energy feels down-to-earth and inviting, with a drive-thru adding convenience. The atmosphere balances lively and relaxed, making it easy to enjoy conversation while dining.

Ribs come out exceptionally good and often paired with baked beans or sausage. Large platters mix ribs with pulled chicken and green beans, and Rib Bone Tuesdays highlight the rib offerings.

Food here is consistently delicious and incredible with a strong reputation for quality. Every order delivers fabulous BBQ flavors that never disappoint.

People are saying

"I found the BBQ here to be outstanding and the menu great."

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"The ribs here are tender and really good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts cash only for payments.

2

Parking is available behind the restaurant.

3

Rib Bone Tuesdays offer special deals on ribs.

16
Just Cookin BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small interior showcases positive Black culture and honors community memories, creating a nostalgic, friendly vibe. The space feels chill and welcoming despite being warm inside. High demand leads to early sellouts, with generous portions and soul food reminiscent of Chicago or Detroit spots.

Turkey ribs stand out for their tenderness and flavor. Rib tips and beef ribs also come out perfectly cooked and very tender.

Food here tastes like home cooking with a strong soul food influence. Dishes come out delicious and consistently excellent in quality.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the turkey ribs and mac and cheese, was delicious."

"The food here is amazing and outstanding."

"The beef ribs were good, if a tad salty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is take-out only on Sundays due to high customer volume.

2

Expect long wait times between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm on weekends.

3

The portions are generous, often enough for two servings.

17
Montgomery Inn The Boathouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant sits right on the river with stunning riverfront views and a relaxed atmosphere. The space includes a balcony for smoking cigars and offers live music that enhances the vibe. Guests often enjoy strong bourbon cocktails and highly praised ribs in a setting that balances casual comfort with scenic beauty.

Ribs come out legendary and exceptionally tasty, often served with potatoes as sides. Staff help with rib bibs to keep the meal neat.

Food here is consistently great with amazing flavors and excellent service. The dining experience stands out as truly legendary and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here was incredible, tender, and juicy."

"The ribs here have a gorgeous view of the Ohio River."

"The Key Lime Pie is homemade with a good balance of sweet and sour."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend dining.

2

Happy hour offers specials on drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Cigar Night occurs every Thursday with a relaxed atmosphere.

18
Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen image 1
Traditional American restaurant

Large fish tanks create a cozy atmosphere with a warm, welcoming vibe. Booths fit families comfortably, though some seating shows wear. Noise levels vary, with young children often present, adding to a lively environment.

Ribs come fall off the bone tender and cooked to perfection. The entree offers a good deal at $21 with a hearty, satisfying portion.

Food comes out hot and well presented with a cozy vibe that adds to the comfort. The menu offers consistently great dishes paired with friendly service every time.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and cooked to perfection."

"I had a wonderful dinner; the food was delicious and plentiful."

"These ribs are fall off the bone tender and awesome."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are welcome.

2

Expect a 30+ minute wait during peak dinner hours.

3

The average cost for two adults is under $50.

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