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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Cincinnati

Salad and pasta spots

A menu that treats both the salad and the pasta with equal importance rather than treating one as an accessory.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
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Updated May 2026
01
Sunshine Deli on Elm image 1
Sunshine Deli on Elm image 2
Sunshine Deli on Elm image 3
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Deli-style setup with counter seats and a nice patio creates a welcoming atmosphere. Energy stays relaxed with a mix of American and Korean deli sandwiches and homemade items. Frequented for lunch specials and a variety of snack options, it blends local favorites with new touches.

Quinoa and lentil salads feature fresh herbs and vibrant ingredients. Chicken salad includes cheese and sweet relish. Pasta salads come highly recommended with great flavor.

Pasta salads here stand out with fresh ingredients and a great homemade touch. Only red sauces are available, so no Alfredo options on the shelf.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken salad sandwich was the best I ever had."

"The staff here is so friendly and quick with lunch."

"I loved the salad with its fresh herbs and ingredients."

Good to know

1

The deli offers a mix of Asian and American food and groceries.

2

Most items are homemade, including chicken salad options.

3

Expect a line during lunch hours, which may lead to a short wait.

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.

Salads feature hyper fresh ingredients and include unique options like a grain salad with farro and arugula tossed in green goddess dressing. The house salad stands out as a healthy and delicious choice.

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."

"The crispy lasagna pasta was delicious and browned."

"This salad with candied almonds and feta 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.

03
Piada Italian Street Food image 1
Italian restaurant

Bright, modern space offers a clean and open environment with a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere. Seating is large and plentiful, attracting people who appreciate customizable, fresh Italian street food in a friendly setting.

Salads feature avocado chop and Farmers market options with crispy chicken and fresh ingredients. The menu includes a variety of salads alongside wraps and pastas, offering build-your-own choices.

Large portions of carbonara pasta and basil pesto pasta come fast and fresh. The menu offers a variety of pastas and wraps with plenty of healthy options like greens and rolled pitas.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and tastes great."

"I found the avocado chop salad to be incredible."

"I loved the pasta here; it was so good."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the rear of the restaurant.

2

There is 15-minute parking behind the building and on side-street parking.

3

The student discount is valid from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM and from 8:00 PM to close.

04
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.

Roasted vegetable salad features unique parsnip preparation and stands out for its serious flavor. Tuna salad niรงoise arrives beautiful and delicious with dinner.

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."

"The Italian chopped salad was solid and fresh."

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.

05
Young Buck Deli image 1

Small deli space with window views into kitchen and limited seating creates an intimate setting. Energetic atmosphere pulses with 80s and 90s hip hop music and friendly upbeat staff. Combines modern Midwestern warmth with a lively, local vibe.

Salads feature a spicy kick in the pasta salad that balances fresh flavors well. The potato salad is creamy and flavorful with a good mix of herbs and spices.

Pasta salad features a spicy kick that lifts its well-balanced, fresh flavors. It comes as a flavorful side often paired with sandwiches and costs around $12.

People are saying

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was unreal with its generous portion and outstanding sauce."

"The pasta salad had a spicy kick and was flavorful."

"The pasta salad had a spicy kick and was flavorful."

Good to know

1

There is very limited seating inside the deli and no seating outside.

2

Parking is available at the Mercer garage near the deli.

3

I was advised to get there early because they sell out.

06
Pastizza's Pizza and Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Thin crust New York-style pizza defines the menu in a cozy space with old school vibes and a family atmosphere. The setting feels like a grandma's kitchen, simple and inviting, with small tables and fun decorations. The place draws a steady crowd who appreciate authentic flavors without fuss.

Salads come as a free side with pasta dishes and entrees like chicken parmigiana. They pair well with garlic knots and complement pizzas and meatball subs.

Trio pasta and pizza stand out for their flavor and freshness. The meat lasagna and pasta Alfredo offer creamy, authentic Italian tastes that pair well with the pizza and spaghetti with meatballs.

People are saying

"I had the best New York style pizza I've ever had."

"I found the pasta here to be the best tasting."

"The pasta dishes came with a free salad and garlic knots."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant primarily offers takeout service.

3

A large pizza costs $23, making it an affordable option.

07
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.

Salads come with a creamy garlic dressing that stands out. Fresh ingredients include excellent tomato slices and the house salad is consistently high quality.

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."

"The house salad with garlic dressing was very good and fresh."

"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.

08
Bourbon's Craft Kitchen & Bar image 1

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.

Salads feature fresh lettuce and flavorful Caesar dressing with delicious croutons. Portions tend to be small and priced around $12.99.

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 service here made me love dining at this place."

"I loved the Caesar salad; it was so flavorful."

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.

09
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.

Caesar salad stands out with its housemade dressing and fresh ingredients. Anchovies come on the side, adding a special touch to the salad.

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 Caesar salad here is cold, crunchy, and has immaculate flavor."

"The pasta here has 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.

10
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.

Salads come with grilled chicken that stays moist and fresh. Options like the steak salad and BRG Salad stand out for their solid flavors and quality ingredients.

Penne comes well-cooked in the bourbon street pasta with a solid sauce. The Cajun shrimp pasta offers a strong flavor punch and the Cajun pasta dishes hold up well.

People are saying

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

"The Cajun shrimp pasta was awesome."

"The Caesar Salad with chicken was surprisingly moist."

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.

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.

Salads feature soft burrata, pickled asparagus, and balsamic pearls. Options include a shareable Barbabietole Salad and a well-liked LB Cesare salad.

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

"The Pistachio Pasta here absolutely stole the show."

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
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.

Salads feature fresh ingredients and come in various styles like grilled chicken pecan and crispy chicken. Caesar salad appears often and pairs well with other menu items.

New Orleans and Cajun pastas feature bold flavors in their sauces. Spaghetti lasagna also appears on the menu, offering a different pasta style.

People are saying

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

"The pasta here is amazing, and the service is fast."

"I thought the crispy chicken salad was the best."

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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