Hey food lovers! Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey through Cincinnati, Ohio? Known as the “Queen City,” Cincinnati’s food scene is a vibrant, delicious melting pot, offering a fantastic blend of German heritage, regional specialties, and modern, innovative cuisine. This insider’s guide is your passport to the best eats, exploring the must-try dishes, essential dining etiquette, local ingredients, and some fascinating facts about the Queen City. Get ready to eat your way through Cincinnati!
I. A Taste of History: Cincinnati’s Culinary Story
Cincinnati’s food story is a fascinating reflection of its history. The city’s location on the Ohio River made it a hub for commerce and immigration, particularly for German settlers in the 19th century. This influx of culture profoundly influenced Cincinnati’s culinary landscape, introducing dishes like goetta and influencing the development of Cincinnati chili. Today, Cincinnati’s food scene is a diverse celebration of its heritage, regional influences, and a forward-thinking approach to modern cuisine.
II. Local Specialties - “Must-Try” Dishes in Cincinnati
Cincinnati boasts a unique array of dishes that have become synonymous with the city itself. Here are some must-try Cincinnati dishes that are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds:
Cincinnati Chili: A Unique Culinary Creation
- Description: Cincinnati chili is a unique Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce (often including cinnamon, allspice, and even chocolate or cocoa) served over spaghetti. The real fun is in the “ways” – the way you order it: “2-way” (chili and spaghetti), “3-way” (chili, spaghetti, and shredded cheddar cheese), “4-way” (chili, spaghetti, cheese, and onions), or “5-way” (chili, spaghetti, cheese, onions, and beans). The chili is thinner than traditional chili.
- Origin/History: Developed by Greek immigrants in the early 20th century, Cincinnati chili evolved from a Mediterranean-inspired meat sauce, adapting to local tastes and ingredients.
- Where to Find It: You’ll find it in any classic chili parlor, a staple in the Cincinnati area; they’re usually casual and family-friendly.
Goetta: German Sausage-Oatmeal Blend
- Description: Goetta (pronounced “get-uh”) is a hearty sausage made from ground meat (typically pork and/or beef), steel-cut oats, onions, spices, and broth. It’s pan-fried until crispy and served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Its flavor is savory and subtly spiced, almost like a porridge made into a sausage.
- Origin/History: This German-influenced dish was brought to Cincinnati by German immigrants and originally developed as a way to use meat scraps and extend food supplies. The oats added bulk, and the spices added flavor.
- Where to Find It: A traditional German restaurant, a diner, or even a local grocery store’s meat counter.
Montgomery Inn Ribs: The Barbecue King
- Description: The Montgomery Inn Ribs are a Cincinnati institution, famous for their sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. Slow-cooked to fall-off-the-bone tenderness, these ribs are smothered in their signature sauce made with fresh tomatoes and other secret ingredients.
- Origin/History: The Montgomery Inn was founded in the 1950s and quickly rose to fame for its mouthwatering ribs. The recipe is a closely guarded secret.
- Where to Find It: A barbecue restaurant specializing in ribs, like Montgomery Inn.
Skyline Chili: Coneys and Ways
- Description: Skyline Chili offers another unique take on chili, using a slightly sweeter, spiced chili sauce (similar to Cincinnati Chili, but with its own distinct flavor). They are most famously served as “Coneys” (hot dogs topped with chili, mustard, and onions) and “Ways” (spaghetti topped with chili and cheese). The sauce is also often used on fries.
- Origin/History: Skyline Chili was founded in 1949 and became a popular chain known for its coneys and distinct chili.
- Where to Find It: Any Skyline Chili location will serve you these delicious treats.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: French Pot Perfection
- Description: Graeter’s is a Cincinnati institution known for its rich, dense, and intensely flavored ice cream. The ice cream is made using the French Pot process in small batches. It has large chunks of chocolate in a variety of flavors. The texture is very dense and the flavors are bold.
- Origin/History: Founded in 1870, Graeter’s continues to use traditional methods and family recipes to make its ice cream.
- Where to Find It: You can find a Graeter’s Ice Cream shop in multiple locations throughout the city.
Jucy Lucy Burger: Cheese-Filled Delight
- Description: A Jucy Lucy is a hamburger with a delicious molten cheese core, cooked to your preference. It is served in a soft brioche bun with sides of your choice, such as fries.
- Origin/History: Created by a group of local burger enthusiasts, the Jucy Lucy has quickly become a local favorite due to its rich, melted cheese core.
- Where to Find It: A local pub or burger bar
Opera Creams: Sweet Cream Candies
- Description: These small, creamy candies are a local favourite. They come in many different flavors and are especially popular around Christmas time. They melt in your mouth.
- Origin/History: The original recipes are a closely guarded secret. They are almost always made by local candy shops.
- Where to Find It: A local candy shop, especially one with a long history.
III. Dining Etiquette and Cultural Norms in Cincinnati
Navigating the Cincinnati food scene is a breeze. Keep these dining etiquette tips in mind to make your experience even more enjoyable:
Tipping
Tipping is customary in Cincinnati. Generally, plan to tip 15-20% for good service at restaurants and bars. Tip taxi drivers and delivery drivers as well.
Greetings
A simple “Hello” or “Good evening” is perfectly fine when entering a restaurant. It’s also common to say “Enjoy your meal” to others.
Table Manners
Basic table manners are expected. Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Don’t talk with your mouth full.
Pace of Dining
Dining can be fairly relaxed, but the pace will depend on the establishment. Fine-dining restaurants will take longer than casual eateries.
Attire
Dress codes vary. For most casual restaurants, comfortable and casual attire is fine. Fine-dining restaurants may require smart casual clothing, or even a jacket.
Dining Times
Lunch is typically from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, and dinner is usually between 6:00 pm and 9:00 pm. Earlier or later times are possible, especially on weekends.
Water and Bread
Water is usually offered upon seating and is often free. Bread may be served at the table and is usually free, but check if you are unsure.
Getting the Waiter’s Attention
It is customary to raise your hand or make eye contact with your server.
Acceptable Topics of Conversation
Anything goes! Discussing politics can be dicey, but not taboo.
Taking Pictures of Food
Okay in most restaurants but ask if you are unsure.
IV. Key Local Ingredients and Where to Find Them
Cincinnati’s unique cuisine is a product of its history and the availability of specific local ingredients. Here are a few key ingredients and what to do if you can’t find them:
Goetta
- Description: A hearty sausage made from ground meat (pork and/or beef), steel-cut oats, onions, spices, and broth. It’s typically pan-fried until crispy and served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Its flavor is savory and slightly spiced. It’s almost a porridge made into a sausage.
- If you can’t find it…: Substitute with any breakfast sausage and add some oats.
Cincinnati Chili Spices
- Description: The exact spice blend for Cincinnati chili is a closely guarded secret, but it typically includes cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and sometimes a touch of cocoa. It’s this unique combination that gives the chili its distinctive flavor profile.
- If you can’t find it…: Try a chili seasoning packet with a hint of cinnamon and allspice, or make your own blend.
Queen City Lager
- Description: Queen City Lager is Cincinnati’s answer to the German lagers of the past, with a bold yet balanced flavor.
- If you can’t find it…: Try another type of lager, such as a Pilsner.
Black Raspberry
- Description: A local variety of raspberry, with a distinctive flavor. It has a deeper, slightly tart taste. The fruit is a dark purple and it is used in a variety of food products.
- If you can’t find it…: Try using blackberries as a substitute.
V. 5 Facts You May Not Know About Cincinnati
Here are some fun facts about Cincinnati, guaranteed to impress your friends and family:
- Cincinnati was once known as “Porkopolis” due to its prominent pork-packing industry in the 19th century.
- The Cincinnati Zoo is the second-oldest zoo in the United States, opening in 1875.
- The city’s unique architecture features many Italianate buildings, a result of the city’s wealth and prosperity in the 19th century.
- Cincinnati is home to the oldest public library system in the United States, founded in 1853.
- The city has a unique Underground Railroad history, with many routes leading to freedom through the Ohio River.
VI. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cincinnati’s Food Scene
Let’s address some common questions you might have about eating your way through Cincinnati:
Are there any food-related festivals I should know about?
Yes! Cincinnati hosts various food festivals throughout the year, including the Taste of Cincinnati (a massive food and music festival) and Oktoberfest Zinzinnati (celebrating German heritage).
Is it common to order multiple courses?
Ordering a starter and main is typical, but it’s not required. It is perfectly acceptable to order only a main course.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted at most restaurants and shops throughout Cincinnati.
What is the policy on bringing your own wine?
Some restaurants allow you to bring your own wine (BYOB), often with a corkage fee. It’s best to call ahead and ask.
Are there any restaurants that stay open late?
Yes, there are restaurants that stay open late, especially in downtown and the entertainment districts. Check online for specific restaurant hours.
What is the best way to find authentic local food markets?
The Findlay Market is the oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in Ohio, with a huge variety of local produce and food vendors. Visit it for a great experience. There are others too. Research on online search engines will give you the details.
What’s the best way to get around?
Driving and using ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft) are common. Public transportation is available but may not be as convenient depending on your itinerary.
VII. Conclusion: Your Cincinnati Culinary Adventure Awaits!
Cincinnati’s food scene is a delightful tapestry of flavours, traditions, and innovation, just waiting to be explored. From the iconic Cincinnati chili and goetta to the creamy delights of Graeter’s ice cream, your taste buds are in for a treat. Use these dining etiquette tips, seek out those unique local ingredients, and explore the Queen City’s culinary treasures. Consider booking a food tour to experience Cincinnati’s cuisine firsthand! Tell us below what your favorite Cincinnati dish is in the comments!