Cincinnati probably has more local favorite eateries and foods than any other place in the entire U.S. From classic Cincinnati chili to incredible French pot ice cream, there are plenty of must-eat items any visitor to Cincinnati can’t leave without.
Cincinnati Chili. Probably the most famous of the cultural Cincinnati foods is Cincinnati Chili. Chili parlors such as Skyline, Gold Star, Empress, and Dixie all serve up this very different form of chili. A meaty blend of slightly sweet and slightly hot spices, this chili is actually eaten with a fork atop a bed of spaghetti and topped with cheese to make a three way, cheese and beans or onions to make a four way, or all three toppings to create a five way. Don’t miss out on this delicious classic Cincinnati treat.
Graeter’s Ice Cream. Ordered by fans across the entire country, Graeter’s Ice Cream is arguably the best ice cream in the world. Using the French pot method, ice cream makers produce the ice cream in very small batches, by hand, daily. While you will pay a little more for the special Graeter’s touch, a visit to Cincinnati just isn’t complete without a scoop of super creamy Black Raspberry Chip.
Busken Bakery. Another great place to satisfy your sweet tooth in Cincinnati is at Busken Bakery. This chain of bakeries is best known for their whimsical smiley face cookies, which transform into Jack-o-Lanterns and other characters depending on the season. You can also enjoy fresh baked donuts, cakes, pastries, and seasonal specialties at this local favorite bakery.
LaRosa’s Pizza. You most likely won’t get out of Cincinnati without hearing the phone number: 347-1111. This is the number you call to get LaRosa’s pizza delivered and the jingle rings throughout the city. LaRosa’s is family owned and their pizza, pastas, and other Italian favorites are created from family recipes of the founder, Buddy LaRosa. Their pizzas, topped with provolone instead of mozzarella cheese, are best-loved in Cincinnati.
Papa’s Opera Creams. Particularly around Easter time you will see Papa’s Opera Creams (as well as French creams and other cream confections) popping up at retail outlets all over. These insanely sweet and rich chocolate covered candies are delicious and native to the Cincinnati area.
Glier’s Goetta. Because of the highly prevalent German culture in Cincinnati, many Cincinnatians eat a breakfast meat called Goetta. Glier’s is the most famous producer of Goetta products. Goetta is a mixture of pork, beef, pinhead oats, and seasonings and can most easily be compared to breakfast sausage. Goetta and eggs is an especially well-liked local breakfast meal.
Montgomery Inn Ribs. For the best ribs and barbeque in town, and perhaps the world according to many locals, you have to visit Montgomery Inn. Although the menu options are a bit pricey, Montgomery Inn is a must visit restaurant for a special night out when visiting Cincinnati.
One of the best parts of visiting a new place is enjoying the local food and eateries. Don’t miss out on any of Cincinnati’s finest.
