Cincinnati is a city with a rich culinary heritage, known for its unique and diverse food offerings that reflect the city’s cultural influences. From its famous chili to beloved comfort foods, Cincinnati’s iconic dishes have become an integral part of its identity. For food lovers and visitors alike, embarking on a culinary tour of Cincinnati means discovering the flavors that make this city truly special. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of Cincinnati’s most iconic dishes and where to find them, giving you a taste of the Queen City’s culinary landscape.
1. Cincinnati Chili
No culinary tour of Cincinnati would be complete without a mention of its most famous dish: Cincinnati chili. This unique style of chili, characterized by its sweet and spicy flavor, is typically served over spaghetti and topped with a variety of ingredients. It’s often referred to as “three-way” (chili, spaghetti, and cheese), “four-way” (adding onions or beans), or “five-way” (adding both onions and beans).
Where to Try It:
Skyline Chili: Perhaps the most well-known chain, Skyline Chili has been a Cincinnati staple since 1949. With multiple locations, it serves its signature chili in a variety of ways, making it a must-visit for first-timers.
Gold Star Chili: Another popular local chain, Gold Star offers a similar take on Cincinnati chili, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Their chili cheese fries are a fan favorite.
Camp Washington Chili: For a more traditional experience, head to Camp Washington Chili, an iconic diner known for its classic chili and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant has been serving up chili since the 1940s and is a favorite among locals.
2. Goetta
A true Cincinnati original, goetta is a breakfast sausage made from ground meat (usually pork), steel-cut oats, and spices. This hearty dish has German roots and is often sliced and pan-fried until crispy. Goetta is typically served as part of a breakfast platter or as a topping for eggs.
Where to Try It:
Glier’s Goetta: As one of the leading producers of goetta in Cincinnati, Glier’s Goetta offers a variety of products. You can find their goetta at local grocery stores or enjoy it at various restaurants that feature it on their menus.
The Breakfast Club: This popular breakfast spot serves up a delicious goetta breakfast sandwich, combining the savory sausage with eggs and cheese on a toasted bun.
Taste of Belgium: Known for its Belgian waffles, this cafe also offers a tasty goetta dish that highlights the unique flavors of this Cincinnati classic.
3. Lobster Rolls
While Cincinnati may not be on the coast, it has embraced the deliciousness of lobster rolls. This New England classic features fresh lobster meat tossed in mayonnaise and served in a buttery toasted roll. The dish has gained popularity in Cincinnati, with several restaurants putting their own spin on it.
Where to Try It:
Red Lobster: Known for its seafood offerings, Red Lobster serves a delicious lobster roll that captures the essence of this coastal favorite.
The Lobster Roll: This food truck specializes in lobster rolls and offers a variety of options, including classic and spicy versions. Follow them on social media to find their location around the city.
O’Malley’s in the Alley: Located in the heart of downtown, O’Malley’s serves a delectable lobster roll that’s perfect for seafood lovers looking for a taste of the coast in Cincinnati.
4. Graeter’s Ice Cream
Cincinnati is home to Graeter’s Ice Cream, a beloved local brand known for its rich and creamy ice cream made using a French pot process. Graeter’s offers a variety of flavors, but their signature black raspberry chocolate chip is a must-try. The ice cream is made with high-quality ingredients, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Where to Try It:
Graeter’s Ice Cream: With multiple locations throughout the city, you can easily find a Graeter’s shop to indulge in their famous ice cream. Be sure to try their seasonal flavors and unique offerings.
Findlay Market: Graeter’s also has a presence at Findlay Market, where you can enjoy a scoop of their delicious ice cream while exploring the market’s offerings.
5. Cincinnati-style Barbecue
Cincinnati may not be as famous for its barbecue as other cities, but it has its own unique take on the cuisine. Cincinnati-style barbecue often features smoked meats, particularly pork, served with a tangy sauce. The city’s barbecue scene has been growing, with several restaurants offering their interpretations of this beloved dish.
Where to Try It:
Eli’s BBQ: A local favorite, Eli’s BBQ serves up delicious smoked meats, including pulled pork and ribs. Their tangy barbecue sauce is the perfect complement to the tender, flavorful meat.
Smokey Bones: This barbecue chain offers a variety of smoked meats and classic sides, making it a great spot for those craving Cincinnati-style barbecue.
6. Fried Chicken
Fried chicken is a comfort food classic that has found a special place in Cincinnati’s culinary scene. The city boasts several restaurants known for their crispy, flavorful fried chicken, often served with classic sides like coleslaw and biscuits.
Where to Try It:
The Eagle: Known for its Southern-inspired menu, The Eagle serves up some of the best fried chicken in the city. The chicken is brined and fried to perfection, making it a must-try for comfort food lovers.
Nellie’s Southern Kitchen: This restaurant offers a taste of Southern hospitality, with a menu that features delicious fried chicken and other Southern classics.
7. Cincinnati-style Pizza
Cincinnati has its own unique style of pizza, characterized by a thin, crispy crust and a variety of toppings. The city’s pizza scene has grown in popularity, with several local pizzerias offering their take on this beloved dish.
Where to Try It:
LaRosa’s Pizzeria: A Cincinnati staple, LaRosa’s is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and delicious pizza. Their signature dishes include the “LaRosa’s Special” with a variety of toppings.
Dewey’s Pizza: This local favorite offers a creative twist on pizza with unique toppings and flavor combinations. Their thin-crust pizza is perfect for sharing with friends.
Conclusion
Cincinnati’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich history and diverse cultural influences. From the iconic Cincinnati chili to delicious goetta and decadent ice cream, the city offers a wide range of flavors that are sure to delight food lovers. Exploring these iconic dishes is not only a delicious journey but also an opportunity to connect with the local culture and heritage.
As you embark on your culinary tour of Cincinnati, be sure to savor these iconic dishes and discover the stories behind them. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, experiencing the flavors of Cincinnati is a delicious way to appreciate all that the Queen City has to offer.
