CityBeat Dining Guide 2008

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520 V ine S t reet - Founta in Square Te l . (513) 721-8483 Fax (513) 721-1541

W elcome to the 2008 “Where to Eat”Dining Guide, CityBeat’s annualspringtime roundup of great restau-

rants in Greater Cincinnati. It’s our food writ-ers’ chance to share their knowledge in onefell swoop (a 36-page swoop) after doling itout in the weekly pages of CityBeat.

Following the tradition that started in2005, rather than bringing you an A to Z listof 900-some places to get a meal in the city,we’ve created a list of 250-plus restaurantsto really enjoy yourself. These are the placesour food writers recommend to family andfriends over and over when asked the eternalquestion, “Where’s a good place to eataround here?”

Our favorite spots are organized by cuisine,as you can see from the lineup below, andinclude notations if they won a readers pollcategory in the 2008 Best of Cincinnati®

issue.It’s a very subjective approach to Greater

Cincinnati’s restaurant scene, we know, andsome worthy spots are always left out, partic-ularly newly opened restaurants. But much ofCityBeat’s restaurant coverage is based onour writers’ reviews and critical opinions, andthis “Where to Eat” guide flows from thosereviews.

If we missed a new spot that shouldbelong, we’ll be reviewing it soon.

A new feature in this year’s guide is“Favorite Tables,” a profile of intriguing tablesat 12 selected restaurants. You’ll find theprofiles scattered throughout the listings.

When you’re online, check out the Web-only“Where to Eat” updates with area chefs andrestaurant owners who have been featuredrecently in CityBeat’s “Look Who’s Eating”profiles. We have information on new menusat fresh, The Hideaway and Tink’s Café andnews about Allyn’s Cafe, The Bonbonerie,Daveed’s at 934, Dean’s MediterraneanImports, Goodies and The Wine C.A.R.T.

We’d like to thank our food writers — LoraArduser, Anne Mitchell and Heather Smith —for their enthusiastic willingness to plunge into every meal, asking questions, dissectingchallenging sauces and deconstructing com-plex entrees in order to report back their find-ings. And we thank Stephen Carter-Novotni,Rebecca Carter-Novotni, Danny Cross, JulieMullins and Maija Zummo for their worktracking down and confirming the listingsinformation.

Get out and try one of these great restau-rants soon. Your table is waiting.

— John Fox Editor

— Jason GarganoArts & Entertainment Editor

YOUR TABLE IS READY

contentsWHERE TO EAT: Locals’ Guide to Dining Out

Favorite Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . starting on page 08

Asian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07

BBQ/Ribs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Bistro/Café . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Breakfast/Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

British/Celtic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Burgers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Cajun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Casual. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Coffeehouses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Eastern European . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

French. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

German . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Homestyle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Indian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Italian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Mediterranean/Middle Eastern . . 25

Mexican . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

New American . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Russian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Sandwiches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Seafood. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Senegalese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Soul Food . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

South American . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Steakhouses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Takeout/Specialty . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Vegetarian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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ASIAN

AmarinFLAVOR: Amarin is friendly, delicious and agreat value. The Thai Jade Noodle is the themost flavorful spinach pasta we’ve ever tasted.Better yet is the duck, a boneless duck halfseasoned and crisp fried, sliced and fannedinto a big ceramic bowl and surrounded byfresh green beans and carrots.FLAIR: The small space is chic, if not flatter-ing, and comfortably padded chairs surroundthe dark, wood tables that line the room.3514 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-321-5533.Open 7 days. $9-$15.

AndoFLAVOR: A standout among local Japaneseplaces, Ando features elegantly prepared andpresented dishes. It delivers simple, finelycrafted food with painstaking attention todetail. Sushi rolls are fresh and tasty, and thevegetarian rolls are marvelous. But there arelots of other interesting things to try, too, likeGoma Ae (boiled spinach) or Zaru Soba (coldbuckwheat noodles). Dinner-for-two sushi andsashimi combinations can offer a better dealthan separate entrées.FLAIR: The atmosphere here is serious, per-haps even somber, with muted colors anddrapes cloaking the windows. A Zen-like calmprevails.5889 Pfeiffer Road, Blue Ash, 513-791-8687.Open Tuesday-Sunday. $12-$45.

AoiFLAVOR: Along with the clean flavors and soft,velvety texture of the beautiful sushi andsashimi, the menu features traditionalJapanese cold and hot appetizers, noodlesoups and entrées such as Steamed Pork withSesame Sauce and Beef or Chicken Teriyaki.FLAIR: An elegant, uncluttered dining spacewith a semi-circular sushi bar dropped into thecenter of an otherwise angular room. Dramatictones of deep red, bronze, gold and orangebleed down the wall of the booths which areseparated by frosted panels that give you adelicious sense of privacy. From the timeyou’re seated and your server provides a warmwashcloth to clean your hands, you can relaxin their care.Newport on the Levee, Newport, 859-431-9400. Open Tuesday-Sunday. $5-$21.

Apsara FLAVOR: Asian fusion — something for anyonewho enjoys visiting Thailand, Cambodia and SriLanka all in one night. The cuisine ranges fromthe mild-mannered Blackened Ahi Tuna andGrilled Salmon to dramatic Cambodian OxtailSoup and Sri Lankan curries. Come for happyhour and experience both exotic andAmericanized appetizers, including the flavorfulgarlic and cilantro Crab Cakes with sweet chiliaioli and mango chutney and the deeply satis-fying Chicken Lettuce Wraps — toasted groundrice stir-fried with chicken, watercress, greenonions and cilantro.FLAIR: Some men buy their wives dinner.Others, like the owner of Apsara, hire someoneto create a replica of one of Angkor Watt’swalls, with a 40-foot waterfall and reliefs ofApsaras, heavenly Hindu nymphs, and deliver itto her as a gift. The wall is visible from mostplaces in the restaurant, but you can sit at thesushi bar for a close-up. 4785 Lake Forest Drive, Blue Ash, 513-554-1040. Open 7 days. $4-$30.

AsianaFLAVOR: A Thai/sushi restaurant offering eat in,carryout and delivery services. Specialties of

the house include Pad Woon Sen (stir-friedwide noodles with chicken, egg, Napa cabbage,carrots, baby corn and snow peas) and deli-cious, reasonably priced sushi. FLAIR: If your definition of a neighborhood jointincludes sushi, this is the place for you. Themodest décor in shades of green, pink andwhite provide a more feminine environmentthan many joints and make for a calm, relaxingexperience. The service is leisurely and givesyou enough time to sit back to enjoy yourmeal.3922 Edwards Road, Oakley, 513-351-0999.Open Monday-Saturday. $8-$16.

Bangkok BistroFLAVOR: Offers Thai noodles, curries, seafood,steak and poultry as well as fresh sushi.House specials include Crispy Duck servedwith a variety of stir-fried vegetables and theThree Flavored Fish with Sweet Chili Sauce.Noodle dishes range from Pad Thai to DrunkenNoodles (rice noodles stir fried with shrimp,chicken, vegetables and basil leaves). Sushilovers should try the Sushi and Sashimi Platterwith tuna and salmon sashimi.FLAIR: Exposed brick walls, Asian accents andmismatched wooden tables emphasize thebistro’s casual atmosphere. For newcomers,the savvy and helpful staff will easily guide youthrough the menu.3506 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-871-0707.Open 7 days. $10-17.

BelugaFLAVOR: A swanky, Zagat-approved Asian-American eatery perfectly tailored for HydeParkerites to go and eat good sushi while com-plaining about not being able to find goodsushi. The Asian-Western fusion menu alsoboasts halibut with black truffle polenta, lob-ster stuffed with crab and plenty of non-marineofferings such as pasta, duck and lamb dishesthat combine complex flavors. Want still morefusion? Try the green tea cheesecake. If you’rea hungry night owl, come for the midnight-2a.m. happy hour Fridays and Saturdays featur-ing a half-price late-night menu.FLAIR: Ah, the cocktails — the specialty moji-tos, the selection of martinis, even a greatwine list — all served at Beluga’s hopping barwith thumping music and banks of plasmascreen TVs. Look for live DJs Friday andSaturday evenings.3520 Edwards Road, Hyde Park, 513-533-4444. Open Monday-Saturday. $8-$30.

Cilantro Vietnamese BistroFLAVOR: Healthy, affordable and quickVietnamese food featuring stir-fried noodles,vermicelli salads and pho soups, all servedvegetarian or with shrimp, pork, chicken orbeef. It’s feel-good food with plenty of cilantroand lemongrass to soothe the tummy. Not toworry: fried spring rolls with fiery dipping sauceoffer one satisfying guilty pleasure.FLAIR: A small, laid-back diner with good, friend-ly college vibes and plenty of sizzling actionbehind the counter. Great for when you’re onthe go, but plenty of counter and table seatingfor dining in.2516 Clifton Ave., Clifton Heights, 513-281-1732. Open 7 days. $6-$6.50.

Dancing WasabiFLAVOR: It looks like a mild-mannered sushi baruntil you see local celebrity sushi chef CharlieChoi mixing up a Hot Mama (one of his Chef’sSpecial Rolls) behind the bar. With deeply fla-vorful — and at times indulgent — sushi, suchas the tasty Sunday Morning Roll deep-friedwith salmon and cream cheese, DancingWasabi serves up both creative and traditionalJapanese and Korean cuisine. Korean favoritesinclude Bibimbap with marinated beef, fried

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513.621.620038 Fountain Square Plaza Cincinnati, OH

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egg, vegetables and rice served steaming in ahot stone pot.FLAIR: Surprises include the well-chosen list ofrefreshing, ice-cold sakes that evoke warmsummer nights, including Snow Maiden, withcream of coconut and passion fruit under-tones. Also enjoy playful presentations such asthe Mochi Ice Cream, with quintessential greentea ice cream wrapped in a chewy, taffy-likerice cake, and delivered as a Sunday with acherry on top. Open into the wee hours of themorning on the weekends.1018 Delta Avenue, Mount Lookout, 513-533-9218. Open 7 days. $5-$35.

Delight Thai Café FLAVOR: Head here for some of the finest, mostauthentic Thai in the area. We love the soupslike Tom Yum Goong (prawns, lemongrass, limeleaves, chili and lime juice) and the Tom KahGai (chicken, lemongrass, lime leaves andcoconut milk). The Pad Thai is outstanding,and the curries (green, red, panaang) are par-ticularly good. They also serve sushi.FLAIR: Although a field trip for urbanites to astrip mall in the ’burbs, it’s well worth thedrive. The restaurant is pleasant and airy withhigh ceilings and lots of windows. Service isfriendly and professional.11928 Montgomery Road, Symmes Twp., 513-677-6175. Open 7 days. $8-$14.

First WokFLAVOR: Fresh-tasting Chinese cuisine with allthe usual suspects. Chef specials include Beefand Scallops, Mussels with Black Bean Sauceand Seafood Delight (jumbo shrimp, scallops,lobster and crab meat with assorted vegeta-bles in white sauce.) The lunch buffet is alsopopular, and kids younger than 3 eat free.FLAIR: An interesting blend of traditionalChinese restaurant décor and 20th-centuryJazz. Most business is carryout. When youdine in, expect a more leisurely pace than youget at most Chinese restaurants.3870 Paxton Ave., Hyde Park, 513-321-8388.Open 7 days. $5.25-12.95.

Gajah Wong West CaféFLAVOR: Subtle and exotic, Northside’sIndonesian café offers invigorating dishes builtaround aromatic ingredients like coconut milk,lemon grass, Java chilies and ginger. TheRendang is like a tropical pot roast, with slow-cooked beef in a richly spiced, dark sauce witha side of watercress sautéed in ginger and gar-lic. Choose from shrimp, chicken, tofu or tem-peh with other entrées, and on warm week-ends they light up the outdoor grill for specialslike chicken sate.FLAIR: The fenced-in patio is a magical islandoasis with big teak tables lit by kerosenelanterns and strings of colored lights. There’s

a stage for live world music on the weekends,and plenty of coffee/tea/espresso drinks andcocktails for lingering over. Gajah also hasbeer and wine available now.3937 Spring Grove Ave., Northside, 513-591-3935. Open Wednesday-Saturday. $9.50-$22.50.

Green PapayaFLAVOR: There’s a lot to choose from at GreenPapaya: Thai entrées, noodles, fried rice, cur-ries, stir-fries and fish. There are many creativedishes you won’t find in other Thai restau-rants, including a health-conscious menu sec-tion. The Green Papaya Salad highlights freshfruit and vegetables with papaya, string beans,carrots, tomato, garlic and roasted peanutsare tossed in fish sauce and limejuice.Takeout options include Lunch Boxes thatinclude soup, appetizer, fruit and a nice selec-tion of sushi and Thai dishes. Try the BubbleTea — Green Papaya is one of the few localplaces to carry this Asian beverage of blacktapioca pearls. FLAIR: Green Papaya’s interior has an overallcalming effect. The gracious staff and bubblingsounds of the fountain in the middle of thedining room will help you slow down for aminute so you can chew in peace. 2942 Wasson Road, Oakley, 513-731-0107.Open 7 days. $9.95-$17.95.

Jo AnFLAVOR: The discerning clientele of Japaneseexecutives from down the road at the Toyotaheadquarters ensure that the food here isauthentic and high quality. The sushi is excel-lent but don’t limit yourself to that with such awide variety of options. Choose from the sashi-mi, tempura, soups, salads, noodles andnumerous cold appetizers. The menu also fea-tures items that are grilled, steamed or sim-mered.FLAIR: The beauty of Jo An is that although it’slocated in the middle of nowhere (an anony-mous office park by the airport), when you’rethere it really feels like somewhere else. Thegreat sushi, subdued lighting, minimalist interi-or and tables full of Japanese businessmen indark suits will transport you.3940 Olympic Blvd., Erlanger, 859-746-2634.Open Monday-Saturday. $8 and up atlunchtime; $15 and up at dinner.

King WokFLAVOR: The flavor of the China Sea, or some-thing like that, with all the usual Chinesefavorites and a special emphasis on freshseafood. Treat yourself to a whole lobster stir-fried with slices of fresh ginger and scallionsin a buttery sauce. It’s heavenly. Or come forthe Chinese Dim Sum that’s now served 11a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.FLAIR: Look for the neon fish. The atmosphereis casual, perked up by the pink linen napkins,nice China and very friendly service. Your serv-er will bone your fish for ease of eating — nowthat’s helpful!203 W. McMillan Ave., Clifton Heights, 513-723-1999. Open 7 days. $7-$13 (some pricesseasonal and by the pound).

Ko-Sho Japanese Restaurant FLAVOR: Ko-Sho is well known to a small groupof downtowners who love traditional Japanesefood. The Gyoza (sublime shrimp dumplingspan-fried until crispy) is a good starter. Try theirtasty and fun-to-eat Shabu-Shabu (thin slicesof raw beef cooked tableside on a burner in afuriously bubbling broth. There’s also good-quality sushi and sashimi. Lunch specials area great value.FLAIR: Ko-Sho is low-key and pretty quiet mostof the time. But what it lacks in ambiance andbuzz is overcome by its tasty, traditional food

and friendly, professional service.215 E. Ninth St., Downtown, 513-665-4950.Open 7 days. $13-$16.

Lemon Grass FLAVOR: Try the Crab Crispies (crab rangoons)appetizer, as Lemon Grass makes the best intown. From there, anything you choose fromthe varied menu is a safe bet. Some popularitems are the Pad Thai, Yellow Curry or LemonGrass Noodles served with egg, green and yel-low onions, celery, bean sprouts and toma-toes.FLAIR: This family-owned restaurant offers allthe comfort of home, with intimate seating,friendly service and an overall good diningatmosphere. It’s centrally located right next toRookwood Pavilion.2666 Madison Road, Hyde Park, 513-321-2882. Open 7 days. $9-$11.

Lu Lu’s Asian DinerFLAVOR: Noodle soup is the world’s best com-fort food and LuLu’s has the best. Favorites onthe noodle-intensive menu include Hall Fun(wide rice noodles stir-fried with a ginger soysauce) and Lard Cha (udon noodles stir-fried ina garlic sauce with bean sprouts, scallions andeggs). Try the Tom Yum soup for a starter(lemongrass, green onion, mushrooms, shrimpand Thai basil seasonings). The Pad Thai isever popular, and the folks there recommendthe curry-spiked Singapore Noodles with chick-en and shrimp.FLAIR: Filled with families, especially on theweekends. The dining room is pretty boister-ous and has a feel similar to a fast-food joint.The no-nonsense staff will take care of youright away.135 W. Kemper Road, Springdale, 513-671-4949. Open Monday-Saturday. $5.50-$9.50.

MatsuyaFLAVOR: With three pages of appetizers andnine pages in total, Matsuya claims to havethe most extensive menu of Cincinnati’snumerous Japanese restaurants. If you go,take a page from the Japanese who rarelymake a meal of sushi. Instead, order a bunchof hot and cold appetizers with sushi either atthe beginning or the end of the meal.FLAIR: Small, family-run restaurant with knowl-edgeable and professional servers, many ofwhom have been with the restaurant since itopened nearly 10 years ago. Clientele is a mixof Japanese businessmen and loyal locals.7149 Manderlay Drive, Florence, 859-746-1199. Open 7 days. $11-$35.

MeiFLAVOR: Offers good, solid Japanese food. Fromcrisp, light Vegetable Tempura to sushi to a tra-ditional bento box (a perfect choice for thosewho like to graze), dishes are fresh and expert-ly prepared. Also try the Ebi Shumai (steamedshrimp dumplings), which are light and tasty, orthe moist and nicely flavored rendition ofChicken Terikayi. A large selection of specialtysushi rolls is also available.FLAIR: Service is polite and deferential, withJapanese hostesses and servers decked outin traditional garb. The ambiance is airy withlots of light-colored woods. A wall of privaterooms is available, and there’s a patio for out-door dining.8608 Market Place Lane, Montgomery, 513-891-6880. Open Tuesday-Sunday. $12-$23.

Miyoshi FLAVOR: Opening a bento box of barbecued eelat Miyoshi is better than opening a present onyour birthday: delicious, fresh sushi, sashimiand tempura, of course, but also a wide varietyof less-familiar authentic dishes. Seafoodarrives daily.

BUCA DI BEPPOLOCATION: 2635 Edmonson Road, Norwood, 513-396-7673

CUISINE: Family-style Italian (i.e., huge dishes) with meals for singles as well

TABLE: The Pope Table is where you can spin a bust of Pope Benedict XVI on a Lazy Susanand enjoy candid photos of popes and bishops. (Play “Guess That Bishop!”) The tableseats 12-18 and has been known to hold up to 22 for large parties, including visitingnuns and priests. You should ask for reservations.

NICKNAME: The Pope Table

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: You can get pretty rowdy without getting kicked out. ThePope is located at the back of the restaurant in his own room but faces server traffic, soeveryone stops by and says “hi.”

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: The fact that you never know how people will react to a bust of thePope who looks like a cross between Anthony Hopkins and Jimmy Cagney and stares atyou throughout your meal. Our server had experienced the following: A lot of stripping,some covering up of the Pope (diners will put a coat over his head, either in reverence ordiscomfort) and a lot of drinking (even when nuns and priests visit).

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: A lot of drinking (which can be good for tips), fungroups and the element of surprise. Not quite as fun, however, when the diners poke thePope’s forehead with utensils or ask the servers to strip for them.(Heather Smith)

PHOTO: RAVEN BULL

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FAVORITE TABLES

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FLAIR: Excellent, friendly service in a relaxedyet refined setting, with sushi bar seating towatch the action or comfortable tables. Zengarden entry. Reservations required for the pri-vate tatami room (non-smoking).8660 Bankers St., Florence, 859-525-6564.Open Monday-Saturday. $12-$25.

Oriental WokFLAVOR: Even if you’ve never gotten friendlywith tofu, the Five-Spice version served overgarlic spinach could become your new favoritefood — or perhaps the crisp and wonderfulFive-Spice Shrimp and Calamari. Red-meateaters will love the Beef Ho Fun or PeppercornStir-Fry. Save room for sesame balls andmango pudding. Try the Volcano Chickenserved in a sweet and spicy Thai chile garlicsauce with pineapple, red peppers and othervegetables. All the appetizers — from CrabRangoon to Pot Stickers and more — aremade in-house from scratch. Not all Chineserestaurants can say the same.FLAIR: The Wong family makes this place spe-cial. Mr. Wong is a showman, moving fromtable to table and making his guests feel wel-come and special. His wife and daughters areas charming as they are beautiful. 317 Buttermilk Pike, Fort Mitchell, 859-331-3000. Open 7 days. $10-$25.

Pacific Moon CaféFLAVOR: Alex Chin’s menu offers fresh classic

pork, chicken, seafood and vegetarian optionsfrom Pacific Rim countries in this new Leveelocation. Come for new Dim Sum brunch 10a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays featuringtraditional cart service. The dining hours areperfect for the service industry crowd or otherlate-nighters: they serve their full menu nightlyuntil 2 a.m. (Sushi orders must be in by 1:30a.m.)FLAIR: The Little Pleasures appetizer menuallows diners to try a wide selection of Asianfavorites, including delicious lightly fried crispytofu, crab rangoon, steamed shark-findumplings and honey BBQ pork.Newport on the Levee, Newport, 859-261-MOON. Open 7 days. $9-$22.

P.F. Chang’sFLAVOR: This national chain offers an unusualselection of Chinese dishes including a varietyof seafood, chicken, beef, vegetarian and noo-dle dishes such as Spicy Chicken in LettuceWraps, Kung Pao Scallops, Szechwan ChickenChow Fun (fat rice noodles tossed withSzechwan-spiced water chestnuts, scallions,chicken and chili peppers). Or try theMongolian Shrimp or the grilled lemongrassprawns. Steak eaters will appreciate the soy-and-mild-chile-marinated N.Y. Strip served withbok choy.FLAIR: The hip, fashionable décor provides anexcellent backdrop for a night out on the town.Unlike most of the other popular chains, they

take reservations. Winner of “Best Chinese.”2633 Edmondson Road, Norwood, 513-531-4567. Open 7 days. $7-$20.

Riverside Korean RestaurantFLAVOR: Authentic Korean food in Kentucky?Believe it. We love the Ya Chae Pa Jun (a thinvegetable pancake) or the traditional hot stonepot of Dolsot Bibim Bab (rice with vegetablesand beef, chicken, or tofu topped with an eggover easy). Entrées are accompanied by ninetiny bowls of appetizers — each a treat —from fish cake to spinach and kim chi toradish. FLAIR: Unassuming on the outside and easy tomiss, it’s another world inside with low tables,silk cushions and exotic music. Wear goodsocks — you must remove your shoes to sit atthe more traditional low tables. 512 Madison Ave., Covington, 859-291-1484.Open Tuesday-Sunday. $12-$36.

Ruthai’s Thai Kitchen FLAVOR: The specialty of this kitchen has to bethe noodle dishes, which come with yourchoice of vegetables and meat (chicken, pork,beef or seafood). If you don’t favor soy sauceor chewy noodles, try the curries, sushi or theinteresting Green Papaya Salad. No worries forpicky eaters — Ruthai’s has an extensivemenu that can fit any palate and there’s plentyfor vegetarians.FLAIR: Tucked into a small space on MountLookout Square, Ruthai’s offers comfy seatingamong Asian knick-knacks and posters. Withroom to seat only 25, carryout is a bustlingbusiness here.3164 Linwood Ave., Mount Lookout, 513-871-7687. Open Tuesday-Sunday. $9-$15.

Sake BombFLAVOR: Sushi gone wild. Plenty of traditionalnori, nigiri and sashimi for purists, but forthose seeking new horizons you might find bar-becue sauce, mayonnaise and tropical fruit inyour nori roll. The menu also boasts generous-ly portioned Japanese dumpling, tempura andteriyaki dishes. Check back soon for new spe-cials to come with their forthcoming summermenu updates.FLAIR: This place has become an after-hoursindustry destination, especially on Mondays —when special industry night discounts areoffered. Naturally, the drink of choice is a shotof sake suspended on chopsticks over beer,knocked into the pint by a pound on the table(“3, 2, 1, Sake Bomb!”) and swiftly gulped.3672 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-533-0555.Open 7 days. $5-$15.

Shanghai Mama’sFLAVOR: Serves up a range of starters fromSpring Rolls to Shrimp Tempura to the moreunusual Shanghai Ravioli (spinach, tofu, ginger,siricha and hot mustard). For main dishes,choose among a wide selection of ShanghaiFlatbread (scallion pancakes), noodle bowlsand rice bowls.FLAIR: With a setting meant to suggest a1920s Chinese noodle house, it’s dark andinviting. Friday and Saturday it’s open until 3a.m., serving up food and drink to weary post-clubbers and chefs and servers fromDowntown restaurants looking for a bite to eatand a rest for tired feet.216 E. Sixth St., Downtown, 513-241-7777.Open Monday-Saturday. $6-$10.

Song LongFLAVOR: This family-run restaurant has a legionof loyal patrons that flocks for its unique, dis-tinctive and delicious Chinese and Vietnamesedishes. Cold Sesame Noodles win annualawards and the Goi Cuon (cold rolls in ricepaper) is the best in the city.

FLAIR: Comfortable and simple with a touch ofkitschy Asian décor. If you’re not familiar withVietnamese food, the staff takes the time toexplain menu options without making you feelignorant. There’s never a “one time only” atSong Long — once you’ve eaten here you’ll beback.1737 Section Road, Roselawn, 513-351-7631.Open Monday-Saturday. $7-$16.

Sukhothai Thai CuisineFLAVOR: Sukhothai’s menu offers a number ofperfectly prepared traditional dishes, includingPad Thai (the unofficial national dish ofThailand), various curries and a wide selectionof stir-fries (which can be made with yourchoice of a protein, including tofu, shrimp,chicken and duck). Want something more exot-ic? Try the mango prawns stir-fried in atamarind sauce or the garlic soft-shell crab.Just be sure to order a Singha (Thai beer) totake the edge off the spicy heat from thosecurry dishes!FLAIR: Hidden down a winding path behind acar dealership off Montgomery Road,Sukhothai is well worth seeking out. The interi-or might be simple and a bit bare, but the deli-cious, highly seasoned food creates its ownenvironment.8102 Market Place Lane, Montgomery. 513-794-0057. Open Monday-Saturday. $6-$18.

Sung Korean BistroFLAVOR: Sung tries to stay true to authenticKorean food while making it more approach-able, offering traditional favorites such as dol-sot bibimbab as well as more familiar stir-frieddishes. a phenomenal appetizer option isHaemul Padjun, a pancake with egg, shrimp,crabmeat, squid, green onion and pepper couldeasily feed four.FLAIR: The dining room includes traditional-stylefloor seating in the back of the room. Thereare plans for a sushi bar in the works.700 Elm St., Downtown, 513-721-SUNG. OpenTuesday-Sunday. $14-$19.

Teak Thai FLAVOR: Traditional Thai and unusual surprises,especially in the curry department, show up onthis popular restaurant’s menu. Teak’s PadThai gets rave reviews, but some of ourfavorites are the Panaeng Curry (we love it withchunks of fried Tofu), Seafood Delight orVegetable Thai Spicy.FLAIR: The sushi bar downstairs lends itself tomore of an upbeat bar atmosphere, but theupper levels are chic-casual for special occa-sions and small gatherings. The outside patiois one of the hardest seats to get in niceweather. Parking can be difficult, especially onweekends but the walk will be worth it. Winnerof “Best Asian” and “Best Sushi.”1049 St. Gregory St., Mount Adams, 513-665-9800. Open 7 days. $11-$30.

Thai NamtipFLAVOR: Excellent dishes include Crispy Tofuwith a perky peanut sauce, Chicken CoconutSoup with fresh lemongrass, kaffir lime leavesand chunks of chicken, Shrimp Panang Curryserved in a stone pot and Pad See Ewe withwide rice noodles. Try Thai Namtip Spicy Fish,especially when they have red snapper.FLAIR: Portraits of the Thai president and firstlady on one wall and a large mural of NiagaraFalls on the other. Not fancy, so come to thishidden West Side gem for the food. It’s excel-lent.5461 North Bend Road, Monfort Heights,513-481-3360. Open 7 days. $7-$14.

Wild GingerFLAVOR: This sleek venture from Lemon Grassowner Dao Yee has a full range of Thai,

PRIMAVISTALOCATION: 810 Matson Place in the Queens Tower, Price Hill, 513-2251-6467

CUISINE: Northern Italian

TABLE: While pretty much every seat in the house is stellar, the most unique perch are themiddle tables on the third tier of the main dining area.

NICKNAME: The View

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: In addition to Primavista’s signature view of downtownCincinnati, one has the entire main dining room laid out before them, all the better to sur-vey the largely upscale patrons, many of whom are regulars celebrating a special occa-sion. (The couple next to me on a recent visit was celebrating their 30th wedding anniver-sary.)

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: Perhaps just as impressive as the view, the superior selection ofwines and the sublime Italian dishes, each of the small, two-person third-tier tables havediners sit side by side, all the better to cozy up to that someone special.

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: The staff loves it because they have easy access todiners. The staff hates it sometimes because they feel like they’re blocking diners’ view.(Jason Gargano)

PHOTO: JASON GARGANO

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Vietnamese and even some Chinese food, butsushi is the way to go here, with selectionslike the Spicy Tuna Roll or Spider Roll. A newfavorite is the Heema Roll with shrimp tempu-ra, asparagus and avocado, topped with yel-lowfin tuna and sprinkled with crabmeat andtempura flakes. Order sushi by the boatload —a Boat for One or a Boat for Two. Other menuselections include curries, Pad Thai and theSeafood Choo Chee with mussels, shrimp,calamari and scallops in a coconut milk currysauce. Beer and wine are now available.FLAIR: Wild Ginger conjures up visions of pun-gent, spicy Asian cuisine, but the low-keyatmosphere, soft colors and bamboo furnish-ings create an intimate way to enjoy the flavorparty in your mouth. As of press time, anexpansion is under construction. Look forwardto a pair of hibachi grills and a full bar!3655 Edwards Road, Hyde Park, 513-533-9500. Open 7 days. $9-$15.

BBQ/RIBSBBQ RevueFLAVOR: The smell of hickory wood hits yourolfactory senses before you even make it inthe door. Once inside you’ll find all the neces-

sities of a good neighborhood BBQ joint: lotsof smoked meat slathered in a sweetish hotsauce with sides like creamy mac and cheese,green beans flavored with pork and cole slaw.FLAIR: BBQ should never be served on anythingother than paper plates and eaten with plasticforks. Take your cafeteria-style tray to one ofthe banquet tables in the dining rooms and digin to the sounds of local news and neighbor-hood chatter amongst the old Hudepohl,Schoenling and Wiedemann signs.4725 Madison Road, Madisonville, 513-871-3500. Open Tuesday-Sunday. $3-$17.

City BarbecueFLAVOR: This regional chain puts out somedamn tasty barbeque, including mouth-wateringbeef brisket and a good and sloppy NorthCarolina Pulled Pork Sandwich. Don’t neglectyour sides — the vinegary greens and crustyhush puppies are stellar. The new PulledChicken Sandwich is a yummy addition to thefare.FLAIR: Play with your food. City BBQ offersthree sauces to mix and match — a vinegar-and onion-based Carolina sauce, an originaltomato-based sauce and mustard sauce.3804 Paxton Ave., Hyde Park, 513-871-8890

and 7706 Voice of America Centre, WestChester, 513-755-0518. Open 7 days. $6-$19.

Goodie’s BarbequeFLAVOR: Mr. Goodie sure knows his pork butt— pork pit-smoked slowly ’til the fat has com-pletely dissolved and a crunchy caramelizedcrust has formed on the outside, resulting in adeep but delicate smoked flavor. For those nottempted by the sauce, there are more stan-dard items like the fish sandwich or fried okra.And we’ll eat the chess pie until we’re asplump as a tick.FLAIR: Complete with neon signs, this down-home restaurant screams good eatin’ at rea-sonable prices. The waitstaff is always friendly,making each trip here feel like eating at home.Winner of “Best Soul Food.”5841 Hamilton Ave., College Hill, 513-542-4663. Open Monday-Saturday. $5-$18.

Jim Dandy’s Family BBQ FLAVOR: Favorites include the baby backs andpulled pork, and according to the owner,“People love the brisket!” The homemadesides are pretty outstanding, too, with redbeans and rice and a yummy broccoli cauli-flower slaw that’s served cold. The homemadesausage is worth a try as well. Jim Dandy’shosts a serious barbecue competition inSeptember where everyone can enter as longas they use charcoal or wood. No propane —sorry, Hank.FLAIR: Counter service with Carhartts and cash-mere, side by side. Stop by to “see our pits inaction!” or pull up to the drive-in window.2343 E. Sharon Road, Sharonville, 513-771-4888. Open 7 days. $5-$20.

Ms. Helen’s GrillFLAVOR: It’s worth the wait for some of Ms.Helen’s charcoal-grilled, slow-smoked barbecueslathered in her secret-recipe sauce, but you’lleven find the side dishes addictive — espe-cially the crowd-pleasing mac and cheese andthe cheesy garlic potatoes.FLAIR: Drag a couple of small tables togetherand park yourself in the middle of the FindlayMarket action for a ringside seat at Ms.Helen’s, which is sandwiched between TheWaffle Man and Luken’s Poultry and SeafoodMarket.126 Market House, Findlay Market, Over-the-Rhine, 513-381-5678. Open Wednesday-Sunday. $3-$10.

Montgomery InnFLAVOR: Area residents have enjoyed the signa-ture barbequed ribs for more than 50 years,and we’ll probably be enjoying them for anoth-er 50. Round out your meal with an order ofthe Saratoga Chips for the quintessentialMontgomery Inn experience. Other menu choic-es include barbequed chicken or a mixedshrimp and chicken combo as well as non-saucy options such as chicken, steaks andpork chops.FLAIR: The nooks and crannies of the originalInn’s dining room are filled with sports memo-rabilia. The bustling servers dressed in blackpants, vests and ties will make sure you getthe extra napkins and bibs you’ll need. Winnerof “Best Barbecue.”9440 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, 513-791-3482 and other locations. Open 7 days.$16-$30.

Pit to PlateFLAVOR: If any place could turn a vegetarian, Pitto Plate would be it. Its authentic Texas-style,hickory-smoked meat is slow-cooked and res-onating with tenderness and flavor. Try thepulled pork or beef brisket — both eye-rolling,melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Plates come witha choice of two sides, including candied yams,

cinnamon apples, greens and macaroni andcheese. The Rosemary Garlic Tilapia and theChipotle Pork were recently added to the fare.FLAIR: Ambiance is fun fusion kitsch — NativeAmerican-meets-Southwest-meets-Cincinnati.Food is served on picnic ware with paper tow-els for napkins.8021 Hamilton Ave., Mount Healthy, 513-931-9100. Open Monday-Saturday. $5-$18.

Walt’s BarbequeFLAVOR: This place is meat-tastic, boasting amenu dominated by ribs, pulled pork and beefbrisket all smoked and slow-cooked on-site.FLAIR: The all-you-can-eat ribs deal on Tuesdaysis worth the fight to secure a seat, which nowmuch easier given Walt’s new larger space.6040 Colerain Ave., White Oak, 513-923-9800. Open 7 days. $10-$19.

Walt’s Hitching PostFLAVOR: Barbecue ribs and Southern skillet-fried chicken are Walt’s two signature items,and the home-fried potatoes are the best any-where on Earth. Another treat is the tomatogarlic salad dressing — so unique and deli-cious you don’t even care that it’s over iceberglettuce. And the rye bread is unlike anythingyou’ve ever tasted, drenched in salted butter.FLAIR: Walt’s feels like a nice restaurant yourgrandparents would have gone to celebrate aspecial occasion in 1964. From the white bricksmokehouse that fills the parking lot with thesmell of burning hickory to the wood-paneledinterior, this place is filled with character.3300 Madison Pike, Covington, 859-331-0494.Open 7 days. $10-$30.

BISTRO/CAFÉArthur’sFLAVOR: We love the Blackened Bleu, BoursinCheese or Spicy Black Bean burgers, butArthur’s also offers salads, sandwiches andentrées including Broiled Salmon, AsiagoCheese and Garlic Ravioli and Australian SeaBass.FLAIR: This neighborhood joint attracts aneclectic crowd of suits and blue-collar sorts.It’s a great place to meet coworkers andfriends after work. In season, the outdoorcourtyard in the back is one of our favoritespots. Winner of “Best Outdoor Dining.”3516 Edwards Road, Hyde Park, 513-871-5543. Open 7 days. $7-$13.

Bronte BistroFLAVOR: This casual restaurant is all aboutguilty pleasures. The smoothies are alwaystempting and the dessert case is chock full ofchocolate temptations and fruity delights. Theentrées are a little more involved — AnjouPear and Bleu Cheese Salad as well as otherlight fare — but who needs food after a heftyslice of chocolate cake?FLAIR: Walking into Bronte from the attachedJoseph-Beth bookstore, you might start think-ing this is just another one of those preten-tious cafés. But you’d be wrong. The café isdoused in rich, aesthetically pleasing colorsthat elicit good vibes, complete with large,comfy booths that appeal to quiet conversa-tionalists and book lovers alike.2692 Madison Road, Norwood, 513-396-8970.Open 7 days. $8-$15.

Café de ParisFLAVOR: Offers Parisian café food at it’s finest,focusing on traditionally French lunch andbreakfast selections like Salade Nicoise andCroissant Foure aux Epinards (toasted crois-sant with spinach and feta). FLAIR: Owner Khaled Atallah must be a favoriteson of the City of Lights. His hearty “Bonsoir!”

TELLER’S OF HYDE PARKLOCATION: 2710 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-321-4721

CUISINE: Upscale, eclectic and slightly gourmet

TABLE: A refurbished, working bank vault with four tables that’s a private room in this his-toric landmark restaurant. Seats parties of four to six, though you can also reserve theentire room for rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, etc. You should ask for reservations,even for two.

NICKNAME: The Vault. As our server said, “We just all call it The Vault like you do, althoughI suppose I could start a rumor and rename it The Dungeon.”

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: Vault tables have booths and plush and comfy chairs, per-fect for a Sunday brunch spent relaxing and drinking mimosas. Some Sunday morningdiners can be found engaging in intellectual conversation and reading from big leatherbooks. Seriously.

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: The sleek décor with brown leather booths and overstuffed chairsmake me feel like a Harvard Business School student, smoking a cigar on invitation tothe Faculty Club. Though not so patriarchal and ostentatious, the room does have hints ofcorduroy and Machiavelli without the Tufted Chesterfield chairs, cigars and fireplace.When I shared this with our waiter, he said, “I feel so refined now, but shouldn’t there bean animal head on the wall or something?”

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: When they work in The Vault, they have only fourtables, max, so tip them well.(Heather Smith)

PHOTO: RAVEN BULL

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6040 Colerain Ave513-923-9800

Fax: 513-923-9510www.waltsbarbeque.com

Home of Award-Winning Barbeque

$1.00 OFFANY ENTREE

Not valid with any other offers.

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LEMONGRASSA u t h e n t i c T h a i C u i s i n eA u t h e n t i c T h a i C u i s i n e

2666 Madison Road | Hyde Park513-321-2882

2666 Madison Road | Hyde Park513-321-2882

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rings throughout the cafe, creating a charming,tres chic dining experience. 17 Garfield Place, Downtown, 513-651-1919.Open Monday-Friday. $3-$8.50

Chez T CuisineFLAVOR: A brunch that would satisfy Julia Childherself. From ham and brie on a rusticbaguette to fluffy omelettes to a flash-grilledCaesar salad, the food is humble while stillbeing a real treat. Crêpes printemps with ricot-ta cheese, lemon curd and warm berry com-pote would cheer anyone up on a dreary day.Or try the “Chez Tray,” a fancy tasting platter oftruffled egg salad, curried chicken salad andwheatberry salad with a petite soup du jourand greens. FLAIR: From the Jazz to the potted herbs to thefancy French hand soap in the bathroom,everything is “just right.”1004 Delta Ave., Mount Lookout, 513-321-2053. Open Monday-Saturday. $2-$12.

Dilly Deli Café Wines and GourmetFLAVOR: A surprising array of eclectic choicesfor a “deli.” Does grilled shrimp and asparagussalad sound like a deli dish to you? The crabcakes, salmon filet and salad with grilledshrimp and asparagus are favorites among theregulars.

FLAIR: To accompany the fab food, you’ll fineloads of excellent choices on the WineSpectator and Beer Advocate award-winningbeverage list. Still, this is a low-key neighbor-hood eatery for Eastsiders that’s terrific foroutdoor dining. Great wine shop and delimeats and cheeses.6818 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, 513-561-5233. Open Monday-Saturday. $10-$25.

Greenup CaféFLAVOR: Country cookin,’ French style.Breakfast, lunch, weekend brunch and dinnerfeaturing seasonal, local ingredients and sim-ple, friendly preparations. Fine tart of rata-touille served with two fried eggs or butter-milk pancakes with Jill’s maple butter. Goodcoffee and lovely assorted pastries all daylong.FLAIR: The most bohemian of the Jean-RobertGroup restaurant, the rehabbed Covingtonbrownstone that was previously home to theWildflour Bakery. Bright walls with art nou-veau décor and a charming garden patiomake this cozy little neighborhood place adestination for people from all over the city.The scent of fresh-baked goods drifts seduc-tively throughout the two floors calling you tomake a choice between the almond and thechocolate croissants. Or you can have yourcroissant and eat it too — just order the

chocolate almond croissant and satisfy bothurges. Winner of “Best Sunday Brunch.”308 Greenup St., Covington, 859-261-3663.Open 7 days; dinner Tuesday-Saturday. $15-$21.

Jean-Paul’s Paradiso FLAVOR: Sure they offer great soups — try thecreamy roasted portobella mushroom — pas-tas, panini, wraps and calzones. But many saythey make the best pizzas in town. Find out foryourself: Try the Northern Woods, topped withwild mushrooms sautéed with rosemary andthyme, roasted red peppers and goat cheese.FLAIR: Jean-Paul Belmont, a master chef andbaker from Switzerland, is building his own lit-tle culinary empire around the Clough PikeMarket in Mount Washington. The environmentmight be casual but the attention to detail isimpeccable.6732 Clough Pike, Mount Washington, 513-231-2780. Open Monday-Saturday. $5-$15.

JeanRo Bistro FLAVOR: This is “homestyle” French done in allits peasant glory from Cincinnati’s culinaryking, Jean-Robert de Cavel, featuring steakfrites, Coq Au Vin and BouillabaisseMarseillaise, Steamed Mussels andVichyssoise and velvety, bittersweet Pot deCrème (the French version of chocolate pud-ding).FLAIR: From the marigold walls with posters,photos and artifacts collected by Jean-Robertthroughout his travels, there’s no place moreFrench in the city, except perhaps his homekitchen. 413 Vine St., Downtown, 513-621-1465. Open7 Days. $16-$31.

Kona BistroFLAVOR: Offers delicious appetizers and saladsbut the real gems here are entrées such asthe Coconut Crusted Tilapia and the AsianGrilled Tofu stacked on top of fresh greens,with scallion sticky rice cakes. Kona is one ofthe few restaurants in Cincinnati that smartlyhonors vegetarians and vegans with as manyinteresting choices as the meat-eating patrons.FLAIR: The first Kona up in Oxford gave Miamistudents a taste of something different. TheCincinnati arm of the operation opened in2004 in a clean, trendy niche of OakleySquare. The service aims to please and thecasual atmosphere will relax you if their uniquewine and beer selection doesn’t.3012 Madison Road, Oakley, 513-842-5662;31 W. High St., Oxford, 513-523-0686. Open 7days. $14-$20.

La Cherie Bakery and BistroFLAVOR: La Cherie focuses on something itsowners felt was missing on the south side ofthe Ohio River: simple, healthy, home-cookedfood. They make all their food from scratchincluding their French bread and bakery goodslike the Cranberry Almond scones. One of ourfavorite things about the bistro is that break-fast never ends — we can get quiche Lorraine,French toast with baked apple slices and aside of Glier’s goetta, and time we want. Trythe new made-from-scratch Blueberry Belgianwaffles. FLAIR: Service is as charming and personal asthe space, which is simple in décor thatincludes and a larger table in the front windowwith a crotchet tablecloth, both heirlooms fromco-owner Susan Burnett’s family. 522 Main St., Covington, 859-261-8889. OpenTuesday-Sunday. $4-$8.

LatitudesFLAVOR: Tapas with a seafood emphasis in theheart of Milford. Ahi tuna spring rolls, crabcakes, Buffalo-style shrimp and sautéed mus-

sels are all great choices. Or go veggie withportabella mushrooms, grilled and topped withherbed cheese and crabmeat or ravioli stuffedwith pumpkin and goat cheese. There’s even aminiature bison burger! The dining is light andsuited more for active couples than families. FLAIR: A great place to enjoy street-side seatingon a nice spring night or cozy loft seating on amore intimate occasion. Remember, there’s nobetter date food than tapas.18 Main St., Milford, 513-831-9888; 7426Beechmont Ave., 513-233-9888. OpenTuesday-Sunday. $6-$11.

Otto’sFLAVOR: Otto’s continues to impress with asmall, well-crafted menu that includes a certi-fied black angus filet with blue cheese baconcream sauce, seared sea scallops atopspinach parmesan risotto with smoked tomatoaioli and Chicken Otto with roast fingerlingpotatoes. Have the tomato pie for lunch.FLAIR: Intimate, friendly and delicious. Otto’sservers are charming, and there couldn’t be abetter, more welcoming neighborhood restau-rant. There’s a small private patio out back orsidewalk dining out front to enjoy when theweather’s nice. Summer season brings backSunday brunch.521 Main St., Covington, 859-491-6678. Open7 days. $20-$32

Rock BottomFLAVOR: This microbrewery always has freshales to quench the beer thirst and a menu tocure any hungry appetite. Some of the mostpopular specialty dishes include Brown AleChicken with shiitake mushrooms, Mahi tacosserved with a pineapple slaw and black beansand jambalaya with shrimp, sausage and chick-en. Steaks, burgers and lighter salads are alsooffered.FLAIR: Great meeting place for before or after aReds or Bengals game. Rock Bottom’s locationalso is a great place to take out-of-town guestsor just for a night on the town.10 Fountain Square, Downtown, 513-621-1588. Open 7 days. $10-$16.

TrioFLAVOR: One of the original upscale/casualrestaurants in Cincinnati, Trio features aCalifornia-style menu of pizza and pastas, sal-ads, sandwiches and entrées that still turns outconsistently good food. From a Niçoise Salad toThai Chicken or Smoked Salmon Pizza and maincourses such as Chilean Sea Bass, Trio’skitchen is always dependable and delicious.FLAIR: Usually crowded with dating couples,family celebrations and business meetings orgal pals sipping wine at the bar from theextensive wine menu. Despite its country clubvibe and definite swank appeal, Trio is neverpretentious and one of our top choices whenwe need “something for everyone.”7565 Kenwood Road, Kenwood, 513-984-1905. Open 7 days. $20-$30.

White House InnFLAVOR: Serving what it calls “heartland cook-ing,” the White House Inn offers a range of sal-ads, sandwiches and main entrées thatinclude Filet Mignon, Fried Chicken, GrilledPorkopolis Chops and Calf’s Liver. Among thehouse specialties is a strip steak bathed inJack Daniels sauce.FLAIR: A relic of the West Chester of yester-year, the White House Inn sits on six acres offormer farmland, wedged in among myriadhousing developments and warehouses thathave blossomed in the past few years. It’s biginside, with seven separate dining rooms.4940 Mulhauser Road, West Chester, 513-860-1110. Open 7 days. $18-$30.

OUTDOORS AT FINDLAY MARKETLOCATION: Elder and Race Streets, Over-the-Rhine, www.findlaymarket.org

CUISINE: Very eclectic

TABLE: Grab any table on a Saturday, and you can spend hours watching the crowd, listening tomusic and, most importantly, dining. There are more ready-to-eat options at Findlay Marketnow than ever before, including Belgian waffles, Bean Haus coffee, soul food from MissHelen’s Grill, big breakfasts from Aunt Flora’s Cobblers, vegetarian empanadas from the cook-ie stand, hot grilled sausages at Eckerlin’s and now Bouchard’s. The pastry chef at theReserve at Newport on the Levee has opened Bouchard’s and is serving up baked goods,custom-made pizzas for just $5 no matter what toppings you choose and a hot pasta bar.

NICKNAME: None

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: There are indoor and outdoor tables, but I like the sunnysouthern side of the Markethouse on Essen Strasse, near the “German Hysteria” historicalmarker. There’s usually some piping hot R&B drifting out of Mr. Pig, along with the barbe-cue smoke. You can sit solo, but it’s more fun to share the table and the goodies.

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: This is Findlay Market. All of life is here.

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: Buy the groceries you came for before you sit downand pig out. Afterwards, you’re not as tempted by all those nutritious veggies.(Anne Mitchell)

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Lunch Specials $5.95 Monday - Friday

THAI NAMTIPDelicious Thai Cuisine • Friendly Atmosphere

513-481-33605461 North Bend Rd • Monfort Heights Shopping Center

NOT FINE DINING, DINING FINELY

CALL FOR RESERVATIONS

859-283-21007915 DREAM STREET | FLORENCE, KY

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Eclectic Wine List Including Organic WineWorldly Beer Selection

Locally-Grown MenuTuesday-Thursday 5pm | Friday-Sunday 4pm

York Street CaféFLAVOR: This local favorite offers a lunch anddinner menu specializing in entrees like freshhalibut, smoked salmon and burgers. Try thepopular Mediterranean Board, a sampling ofhummus, tabouleh, baba ghanouj, Greek salad,spanikopita and pita that’s perfect for sharing.Homemade desserts top off an always originaland interesting meal at York Street.FLAIR: Built as a pharmacy in 1880, the café isdecorated in an eclectic, comfortable style,with original shelving and woodwork lining thewalls. Original art shares space with quirkykitsch such as collections of dentures and Pezcontainers. Winner of “Best First DateRestaurant.”738 York St., Newport, 859-261-9675. OpenTuesday-Saturday. $8-$25.

Zebo’s BistroFLAVOR: As a general rule we never sleep inrestaurants or eat in hotels, but Zebo’s is asurprisingly tasty exception to humdrum rule ofmost hotel cafés. Their dinner selections arepaired with wine suggestions, and there arefresh fish entrées like Seabass along with sig-nature items such as duck breast stuffed withboursin cheese and marinated in a bourbonglaze.FLAIR: This Marriott overall is a cut above withan exceptionally amiable staff throughout.Zebo’s has a great river view of the downtownskyline and the servers are very accommodat-ing.10 W. RiverCenter Blvd., Covington, 859-392-3750. Open 7 days. $15-$35.

BREAKFAST/LUNCHBlue JayFLAVOR: For some great-tasting, greasy-spoon,eggs-and-bacon type of breakfast, there’s noplace better. Hearty portions of eggs, homefries and goetta are regularly fried on the grill,and meals like cheese coneys, cheeseburgersor ham and cheese sandwiches hit the spotwhen breakfast won’t. If you’re in the mood fora light snack, order a homemade pie to go.FLAIR: Danny and Kathryn Petropoulos openedthis tiny Northside restaurant in 1967, and thecouple still spends their days cooking and bak-ing for customers. Regulars drift in and outthroughout the day, and the waitresses love tochat with newcomers.4154 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-541-0847. Open Monday-Saturday. $3-$7.

First WatchFLAVOR: This “daytime café” offers breakfast,brunch and lunch items that range fromhealthy to hearty. With multiple locations in thearea, there is sure to be one close to you. Thebreakfast options include a Killer CajunOmelette, stuffed with chicken breast, mush-rooms, Monterey Jack cheese and onions. Atlunchtime, try a burger, any of their specialtysandwiches or salads.FLAIR: Great place for morning breakfast meet-ings, as it’s a corporate reworking of a neigh-borhood diner. Coffee flows readily from largetureens to help jumpstart the brain. Great forfamily dining on the weekends. Winner of“Best Breakfast.”Multiple Locations. Open 7 days. $3-$7.

Martha Jeanne’s Eatery FLAVOR: Simple, homemade food without frills,flavored with affection. Traditional breakfastwith biscuits and gravy, eggs and hash browns,pancakes and French toast. For lunch, soups,salads and sandwiches, as well as a blue-platespecial. The desserts are homemade, too, andhalf-portions are available. Perfect — a sliverof pie is just what we wanted! FLAIR: Clean and cozy with bright vinyl table-cloths, unmatched chairs and the unbreakableCorel plates our grandma used to have. Thereare no strangers here. 511 Fairfield Drive, Bellevue, 859-491-9258.Open Tuesday-Saturday. $3-$8.

MokkaFLAVOR: It just keeps getting better at this cre-ative breakfast and lunch spot. Join them forWrap It Up Fridays with $5 wraps. The break-fast item that’s on everyone’s lips is Mokka’sFrench toast battered with corn flakes andtopped with crème brulee pastry cream andbananas. We bet you can’t eat the wholething.FLAIR: Mokka is working on un-fine-dining itsnew space. It isn’t as quaint as the old one,but there’s plenty of room and great booths.And it enthusiastic staff and prices can’t bebeat. Nothing on the menu is over $7 andeverything shows effort.518 E. Fifth St., Newport, 859-581-3700.Open 7 days. $2-$7.

Original Pancake HouseFLAVOR: A morning person’s dream, offeringeverything from strawberry waffles to vegetari-an omelettes. Regulars are hooked on the skil-

let-sized Dutch Baby Pancake (a bowl-shapedconfection served with whipped butter, pow-dered sugar and lemon) and the ApplePancake (an oven-baked specialty made withGranny Smith apples and a cinnamon glaze).FLAIR: This family-style breakfast house has aloyal customer base and is always hopping, sothere might be a wait, especially on weekends.9977 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, 513-745-0555. Open 7 days. $4-$9.

Paula’s CaféFLAVOR: Offering hot and cold sandwiches, over-sized salads and filling homemade soups,Paula’s is more than a café — it’s an institu-tion. The food here never fails to satisfy; justtry the Cuban Sandwich: roast pork loin, hamand melted Swiss cheese pressed betweenslices of dense, fresh Shadeau Bakery breadto see just how good a sandwich can be.FLAIR: This year, a bustling new downtownstorefront joined its older sibling, still locatedin the heart of Findlay Market. At either spot,grab something on the run or hunker down fora well-deserved break from work or shopping.41 E. Fourth St., Downtown, 513-381-3354.Open Monday-Friday. $4-$8.

Sugar ’N SpiceFLAVOR: Mmm, real hash browns, plumpomelettes, wispy thin blueberry pancakes withthe tang of buttermilk, custard-y scrambledeggs and bottomless cups of coffee. Sugar ’NSpice is known for good breakfast comfortfood served all day, but try some of their dailylunch specials like the Alotta Bull (1/2-poundroast beef sandwich) or the Red ’n Yeller(grilled cheese with tomato).FLAIR: Not much, and that’s why we like it.Weekend mornings are a guaranteed wait forbreakfast, but otherwise it’s a no-nonsense,elbows-on-the-counter environment.4381 Reading Road, Bond Hill, 513-242-3521.Open 7 Days. $3-$7.

BRITISH/CELTICCladdagh Irish PubFLAVOR: Enjoy traditional fish and chips beerbattered with Bass Ale, Shepherd’s Pie, cornedbeef and cabbage and Irish Beef and GuinnessStew.FLAIR: We’re tempted to break out the chain-mail outfit and call each other “wench” whenhanging out in Claddagh’s castle-like bar anddining rooms, but there’s nothing like the out-

side dining area with the beautiful view of thedowntown skyline to take the bite out of ourblarney.Newport on the Levee, Newport, 859-581-8888; 5075 Deerfield Blvd., Deerfield Twp.,513-770-0999. Open 7 days. $9-$20.

Cock ’N BullFLAVOR: Serving “traditional” fish and chips —well, without the mushy peas anyway — aReuben sandwich in a nod to Mainstrasse’sGerman theme and the Famous Jim Beamsteak to embrace Kentucky’s famous bourbontradition.FLAIR: Especially lovely outdoors with a ringsideseat on the liveliest corner in Covington.601 Main St., Covington, 859-581-4253. Open7 days. $7-$18.

The Crooked Nail PubFLAVOR: The menu is a combination of afford-able English pub fare and bar food with sand-wiches, including the pub’s self-proclaimedFamous Fish Sandwich and an open-facedcorned beef reuben. Try the unusual but deli-cious deep-fried pickles at least once just tosay you’ve eaten a deep-fried pickle.FLAIR: Typical pub décor with wood paneling,Guinness beer advertisements and Britishflags provides a comfortable, familiar feel.9303 Cincinnati-Columbus Road (Route 42),West Chester, 513-755-7800. Open Monday-Saturday. $10-$20.

Molly Malone’s Irish PubFLAVOR: Irish dishes, like the popular fish andchips, Shepherd’s Pie and variations on aboxty theme: traditional beef and some twists,including chicken tikka and Seamus Ramirez’sjalapeno version. There’s also a filet, Sugarand Spice Salmon, Salmon and Cod Salad,Bow Tie Chicken Pasta and meatloaf. Washyour meal down with one of the many Englishor Irish ales.FLAIR: The pub’s cozy interior is a great neigh-borhood gathering place. Live music in the baron Friday and Saturday nights, quieter in any ofthe three dining rooms.6111 Montgomery Road, Pleasant Ridge, 513-531-0700. Open 7 days. $8-$16.

Nicholson’sFLAVOR: There’s nothing like a warm, comfortingdish of Shepherd’s Pie served with a goodmalty ale next to a warm, cozy fire. Well,except for winning the freakin’ lottery, but what

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are the odds? So we suggest heading down-town to Nicholson’s for a sure thing. The wood-grilled salmon is a best-seller, but the OssoBucco is awfully good, too. Fresh seafood ismarket price. There are lunch and dinner spe-cials daily.FLAIR: The great mahogany bar — which offers90 single-malt scotches — is the centerpiece,but even the urinals were made in Scotland!Now that’s attention to detail. 625 Walnut St., Downtown, 513-564-9111.Open 7 days. $10-$33.

BURGERSCity View TavernFLAVOR: Still the best view and some of thetastiest burgers in town, and the prices arefrom back in the day when Mount Adams wasknown as a “bohemian” neighborhood withjust regular folks. Try City View’s Bloody Mary— it repeatedly wins awards as the city’sfinest and hairiest. Stella Artois is among thebeers newly added available at the bar.FLAIR: Laid back and genuine, City View hasmanaged to rise above the hype and stay realfor generations. Good jukebox, cold beer,friendly folks. One note of caution: Unattendedchildren of any age will be dismissed from thepremises.403 Oregon St., Mount Adams, 513-241-8439.Open 7 days. $3-$7.

Ollie’s Trolley FLAVOR: Mr. Ollie’s cooking is mighty good. Coleslaw aficionados swear he has the secret, andwhat they say about that deep-fried turkey istrue — it’s not greasy, quite moist and a hellu-va lot easier to buy than make.FLAIR: Now in two locations for your OllieBurger pleasure. Limited seating, so grabsome and go. You didn’t want anyone to watchyou munching that turkey drumstick anyway!1607 Central Ave., West End, 513-381-6100.Open Monday-Saturday. $3-$45 (for wholeturkeys).

Quatman’s CaféFLAVOR: Known for its burgers, which are a1/2-pound of grilled beef served with a fatslice of onion and pickle. Additional dinner orlunch options include its famous mock turtlesoup, cheeseburgers, ham and cheese, roastbeef, corned beef and turkey sandwiches andfish on Fridays. The chicken and ham saladsare top notch.FLAIR: An authentic Norwood experience ifyou’re looking for one — and who isn’t? Filledwith regulars and characters of all makes,Quatman’s is a burp from the ’50s with neonbeer signs, checkered tablecloths and paperplates.2434 Quatman Ave., Norwood, 513-731-4370.Open Monday-Saturday. $5-$10.

Zip’s Café FLAVOR: Zip’s equals cheeseburgers. OK, nowyou get it. The meat is ground locally at Avril’son Court Street. The buns are baked locally atKlosterman’s. Sure, there’s a black bean burg-er, a turkey burger and even a tuna sandwichon the menu, but would you go to the SistineChapel and look at the floor? Eat the cheese-burger. The Girth Burger, a beef patty with amett on top is sure to burst the seams of yourpants.FLAIR: There’s a toy train running along thetracks, and patrons packed in like sardines.There’s beer, and there are Zip Burgers. You’rein the right place. Go wild and have the onionrings. Winner of “Best Burgers.”1036 Delta Ave., Mount Lookout, 513-871-9876. Open 7 days. $4-$8.

CAJUNDee FeliceFLAVOR: New Orleans-style right in Covingtonwith a Portabella Etouffée for that rarest of din-ing species, a Cajun vegetarian. Blackenedsteaks and seafood, not too spicy despite themenu warning, and nightly specials.FLAIR: Jazz rules here, with excellent live musicWednesday through Sunday complementing thecrisp linens and shiny brass rails.Mainstrasse’s most upscale eatery now allowssmoking only at the bar, which, is one morespot than you can smoke on this side of theriver.529 Main St., Covington, 859-261-2365. Opendaily (dinner); half-price wine and appetizersMondays; Sunday Brunch. $15-$30 (more formarket-priced entrées).

Knotty Pine on the BayouFLAVOR: Gulf Coast seafood, done Cajun style,or just the way you like it. Knotty Pine mixesits own seasonings, and it’s been a recipe forsuccess. Farm-raised oysters all year around.You’ve got to try the Karma Cake, an operacream cake baked from an old family recipe bythe owner’s sister — whose name is Karma!FLAIR: Funky, comfortable, home cooking at therestaurant with the crooked floor. Crawfish boilevery Thursday, and half-priced wine onWednesdays by the bottle or by the glass. Livemusic during Mardi Gras.1802 Licking Pike, Cold Spring, Ky., 859-781-2200. Open Tuesday–Sunday. $13–$26.

CASUALAllyn’sFLAVOR: Best known for their Cajun menu itemssuch as Blackened Gator, Jambalaya andBlackened New York Strip, but they also offerTex-Mex Enchiladas, Burritos, Fajitas andChimichangas as well as pasta dishes like theLobster Ravioli Alfredo and Mardi Gras Pasta.FLAIR: Great neighborhood hangout. The restau-rant has a casual and lively bar/café atmos-phere, especially on Sunday nights when theband cranks up. Check out the specialty shopwhere you can find local music CDs and a kick-ass wine selection at reasonable prices.3538 Columbia Pkwy., Columbia-Tusculum,513-871-5779. Open 7 days. $6-$25.

Arnold’s Bar and GrillFLAVOR: Arnold’s serves up a nice range oflunch and dinner options at bargain prices,including a lunch menu (weekly specials) withsandwiches, burgers, bratwurst, grilled polenta,dinner specials, salads, meats and pasta.FLAIR: The oldest continually operated bar intown — Cincinnatians have been polishing thebar with their elbows here since 1861. Thereare authentic signs and antiques everywherethat create a real sense of history. Live musicon weekends, and a courtyard for outdoor din-ing. Winner of “Best Restaurant with LiveMusic.”210 E. Eighth St., Downtown, 513-421-6234.Open Monday-Saturday. $8-$22.

Avari Bistro & Deli FLAVOR: If you’ve ever lived in Manhattan, youowe it to yourself to come to Avari for a koshermeal that will bring back such memories ashomemade matzoh ball soup, chicken shwar-ma, corned beef and brisket. If you’re not a fanof Jewish food, then try the Pasta Pomodoroand Buffalo Chicken Tenders.FLAIR: Move beyond the deli case and chalk-board that greet you at the entrance and you’llfind a clean, contemporary space where onefamily might be saying grace to start theirmeal while another is bensching after finishing

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FREE PARKINGIN REAR

• Everyday Lunch Buffet •Mon-Fri 11:30am-2:30pm, 5-10pm

Sat-Sun 11:30am-10pm2006 • 2007 • 2008

amolindia.com • 354 ludlow ave • 961-3600

...BATTLING INFLATION FOR 30 YEARS

344 Walnut Street • Downtown513.721.1127

Single SandwichPlatter &

Large Drink Monday-Thursday. Dine in Only. Valid only at Walnut Street location.

$550

theirs. But everyone’s welcome! 4858 Hunt Road, Blue Ash, 513-984-9804. Open Sunday-Thursday, Friday daytime. $8-$22.

Behle Street Café FLAVOR: Homey and delicious shouldn’t be taken for granted.Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and green beans can be heavenly,especially when followed by Otis’s beautiful homemade breadpudding. Behle Street consistently delivers a straightforwardmenu. The crab cakes are quite good, too.FLAIR: When the weather is nice, the patio is open at BehleStreet, and it’s the perfect vantage point from which to viewDaniel Libeskind’s Ascent while you enjoy a sirloin burger or aGreek salad.50 E. Rivercenter Blvd., Covington. 859-291-4100. Open 7 days.$14-$28.

Blue Ash ChiliFLAVOR: Cincinnati chili, how do I love thee? Let me count theways: three, four and five. This fine independent chili parlor,established in 1969, offers coneys for the kiddies and heartydouble-decker sandwiches for big appetites. Meatloaf and ribeyesteaks are alternative menu options.FLAIR: Black-and-white checkered floors, single- and double-seater booths and plenty of friendly regulars.9565 Kenwood Road, Blue Ash, 513-984-6107. Open Monday-Saturday. $3.25-$8.

Camp Washington ChiliFLAVOR: John Johnson, the patriarch of Camp Washington Chili,won’t divulge the ingredients in his secret spice mix, but he willsay that the secret to his success is that he doesn’t use anyimitation ingredients. Unlike many of the chili chains, Johnsonnever freezes the meat he uses, which he’s been buying fromthe local slaughterhouses since he started his business. Healso uses fresh onions, fresh garlic and Wisconsin cheddarcheese. Enjoy a bowl of cream of broccoli or chicken noodlesoup to complement your meal.FLAIR: The retro-style dining room is open 24 hours a day, andthe customers are as varied as the different ways they ordertheir chili. Winner of “Best Chili (Non-Chain).”Hopple and Colerain streets, Camp Washington, 513-541-0061.Open Monday-Saturday. $5-$8.

The CometFLAVOR: If it’s burritos you crave, look no further. The Comet issure to have just what you need. Their extensive burrito menuincludes favorites like the Black & Tan (pinto and black beans,Monterey jack cheese, rice and salsa) and the Marinated JerkedTofu. Or try a basket of chips with a trio of their homemade sal-sas.FLAIR: Who else offers the eclectic combination of weekly livemusic, including the Comet Bluegrass Allstars, weekly karaoke,over 100 beer choices, pool tables and one of the best jukebox-es in town with lots of local picks? 4579 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-541-8900. Open 7 days.$4-$9.

Courtyard Café on MainFLAVOR: Serves a step above ordinary bar food, offering stuffedmushrooms, burritos, double-decker sandwiches, soups and ourfavorite, the cole slaw.FLAIR: A lunch destination for area workers, it’s also a greatplace to hang out, eat some grub and drink some beers. As itsname suggests, this place is all about the courtyard. At night,with the fire pit going in the two-level courtyard, this place canbe a cozy hangout. It’s more low-key than the rest of its MainStreet bar brethren. 1211 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-723-1119. Open Monday-Saturday. $6-$12.

CurritoFLAVOR: Formerly Boloco, Currito serves up “inspired burritos”that draw on culinary influences from around the world.Offerings range from to Cajun to Mediterranean to Bangkok aswell as salads, chips and salsa and fruit smoothies. Snackers— their own twist on quesadillas — come with cheese andchicken, steak or even tofu.FLAIR: Tired of wrestling with burritos as big as your head?Currito is a smaller alternative with a sizeable selection. Therestaurant also offers healthier choices like brown rice insteadof white for burrito fillings as well as organic tofu. 222 Calhoun St., Clifton Heights, 513-281-1500. Open 7 days.$6-$10.

Sunday, May 11

10am-3pm

Mother’sDay

BuffetBrunch

BuffetBrunch$30 per adult$8 per child

(10 & under)

Open at 4pm for Dinner*Regular Dinner Menu & Specials

Reservations Recommended

513-381-1300or Available online

@ www.Palomino.com

Downtown - 5th & VineAbove Tiffany & Co.

*No regular menuVIA VITE

LOCATION: 520 Vine St., Downtown, 513-721-VITE

CUISINE: Modern Italian

TABLE: Two low tables on the second floor terrace, sur-rounded by comfortable couches, that look out at theTyler-Davidson Fountain on Fountain Square. You canscope out the action on the square while enjoyingHappy Hour, lunch or dinner.

NICKNAME: The Fountain Lounge

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: There’s no better view ofthe renovated Fountain Square than from this perch,which is about eye level with the Genius of Water atopthe fountain. Since Via Vite opened in October, thesepast few weeks have been the first chance the restau-rant owners have had to break out the patio furnitureand test drive their terrace. Assistant Manager MarcusThurmond says they’ve been pleasantly surprised athow popular these tables have become. Via Vite hasbegun late night Happy Hours (10 p.m.-1 a.m. Monday-Thursday and 11 p.m.-2 a.m. Friday-Saturday) that grabcrowds after a show at the Aronoff Center or afterother nearby restaurants close.

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: Once you sink down into thecouches and try a pizza and half-priced drink at HappyHour, you really don’t want to move. Once they startoffering DJ music in the evenings, as Thurmond saysthey’re planning to do, you’ll never leave.

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: Thurmond says alot of the Via Vite staff love to hang out in this coucharea when their shifts are done, and their late-nightHappy Hour has attracted a restaurant industry crowd.So it’s like home away from home for much of thestaff. The downside to a super-comfy couch area ispeople don’t want to leave and, well, the tables don’tget turned that often.(John Fox)

PHOTO: RAVEN BULL

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FAVORITE TABLES

Essencha Tea HouseFLAVOR: Light sandwiches, homemade soups and crepes are allhere to complement the main attraction: precision-infused teasfrom around the world. Try an “ultra-premium grade” selectionlike Organic Jasmine Pearls, which slowly blossom in your glassteapot while releasing their floral essence. FLAIR: Essencha isn’t your Aunt Millie’s tea parlor, with doiliesand Victorian floral wallpaper. Rather, the small, tranquil spacein the heart of Oakley’s bustling town center tends toward mini-malist, Zen-like décor.3212 Madison Road, Oakley, 513-533-4832. Open 7 days. $3-$13.

Grandview Tavern & GrilleFLAVOR: You’ll have a hard time finding a better cheeseburger,and the sweet potato fries are definitely the best in town.Excellent salad topped with ahi tuna, medium rare. For dinner,try pan-seared salmon — it’s perfectly cooked. Offers a Sundaybrunch buffet with eggs benedict, omelettes and a carving sta-tion.FLAIR: A welcome addition to the neighborhood dining scene inFort Mitchell, Grandview has fast become a favorite. The out-door tables are the first to fill at lunch on nice spring days, butinside by the fire is perfect on any winter evening.2220 Grandview Drive, Fort Mitchell, 859-341-8439. Open 7days. $9-$29.

Greyhound TavernFLAVOR: The Greyhound’s onion rings are, to an onion lover, whatdonuts are to Homer Simpson. The fried cod sandwich is stu-pendous, and Kentuckians would go a long way to find a betterHot Brown. Traditional Sunday brunch — don’t miss the sausageand egg casserole or the homemade biscuits.FLAIR: The Fort Mitchell Greyhound will soon be joined by a sec-ond location at the site of the old Tousey House in Burlington,opening in June. The menu will be similar but there will be moreoutdoor seating available.2500 Dixie Hwy., Fort Mitchell, 859-331-3767. Open 7 days.$15–$25.

Habits Café FLAVOR: The large menu includes appetizers, sandwiches andentrées with everything from meatloaf to the popular OstrichBurger. Still a favorite are the Potato Rags (deep-fried hash brownsserved with onion, bacon, cheese, tomato and ranch dressing) —they might not sound too healthy, but they’re sure tasty.FLAIR: Right in the heart of Oakley Square, this is a classic neigh-borhood hangout with a diverse clientele and some hoppin’ livemusic. The bar room is full of brewery advertising and inexpensive(but matching) furniture. There’s a separate room with upholsteredbooths for a less pub-ish dining experience.3036 Madison Road, Oakley, 513-631-8367. Open 7 days. $7-$17.

The HideawayFood: Your meal here is likely to be casual, comfortable and a lotof fun. The kitchen serves up a broad range of tasty dishes —vegetarian tamale pie served with dirty rice and salsa; catfish ortilapia with sautéed hominy and cornbread; homemade meatloaf;a flank steak and sharp provolone sandwich; and the new “tartedup” grilled cheese with roasted garlic and basil on ciabatta.FLAIR: Located on a stretch of Northside’s Hamilton Avenue, TheHideaway serves its homey dine-in fare amongst hipster garage-sale leftovers — framed string art, velvet Elvises, and lots ofVirgin Mary candles. Its kitschy, retro vibe and funky, earnestsoundtrack might make you feel like you’ve gone back in timewhen you hid out in your best friend’s basement playing JimMorrison and Todd Rundgren.4163 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-542-2444. Open Tuesday-Saturday. $12.95-$21.95.

Mammoth CaféFLAVOR: Same great coffee, but the menu features burritos andwraps like the Van Eatin’ Burrito filled with hummus, guacamole,tofu, salsa and all good veggie things. Vegetarian breakfasts areoffered all day. Breakfast and lunch items are baked in-housedaily. And desserts from The Bonbonerie!FLAIR: Great open space with a retro flair to the furnishings. Hipand friendly, there’s a good mix of patrons enjoying their cappuc-cinos and reading from the great selection of reading material,from British fashion mags to CityBeat.515 Monmouth St., Newport, 859-291-8875. Open Tuesday-Sunday. $6-$7.

Maribelle Tavern FLAVOR: Standards, like build-your-own burgers, but lots of sur-prises, too, like a “Grown-Up Grilled Cheese” with goat cheeseand caramelized onions or Sweet Potato-Crusted Tilapia with arum butter sauce. Sides include “Asian slaw” with bacon, mac’n cheese, roasted sweet potatoes and spicy tavern fries.Everything on the all-day menu is made in-house, includingdesserts. FLAIR: Restoration Hardware decor and a friendly staff in theheart of the “new” East End. Patio dining is coming soon. Andpicky eaters are welcome: The kitchen will make any substitu-tions you request. 2062 Eastern Avenue, East End, 513-861-2484. Open Tuesday-Sunday. $4-$14.

Mount Adams Bar & GrillFLAVOR: More grub than pub, this Bar & Grill offers a full menuof sandwiches, salads and entrées. Favorites include the grilledtuna steak and grilled salmon sandwiches as well as the fabu-lous burgers.FLAIR: Popular with everyone from daytime lunchers to pre-Playhouse crowds, this is a beautiful old turn-of-the-centurybuilding with tile floors and a gorgeous bar. The long porch is acozy spot in the summer for a breezy, late-night bite.938 Hatch St., Mount Adams, 513-621-3666. Open 7 days. $4-$15.

Mount Adams PavilionFLAVOR: Simple, delicious entrées that are several steps abovetypical bar fare. Unique quesadillas and the Fried Chicken Saladare house favorites. The bar is open year-round, though the newmenu comes out with the spring sun.FLAIR: You’ll feel beautiful here. The bright colors, oversizemurals of abstract art, the decks with the city view and themusic played by the house DJ are all larger than life and craft anever-ending party.949 Pavilion St., Mount Adams, 513-744-9200. Open 7 days.$6-$12.

O’Bryon’s Irish PubFLAVOR: Along with the usual bar food staples, O’Bryon’s hasmore out-of-the-ordinary lunch specials such as Pulled PorkBarbecue and Meatloaf. Popular dinner items include the beer-battered cod sandwich, quesadillas and wings.FLAIR: Located in the heart of the O’Bryonville business district,the pub is a spacious joint with tables with comfy chairs, a barfor those going solo and additional seating at a bar upstairs. Italso has a great rooftop patio.1998 Madison Road, O’Bryonville, 513-321-5525. Open 7 days.$8-$12.

OlivesFLAVOR: Had a bad morning? Olives’ chicken potpie is the per-fect comfort food at lunch. For dinner, try meatball Bologneselinguine, meatloaf and mashed potatoes, fresh seafood orsalad.FLAIR: Olives “strives to serve good quality food at reasonableprices,” and they do a good job of that. A great place for dinnerbefore a movie at The Esquire or a UC event.342 Ludlow Ave., Clifton 513-221-4200. Open 7 days. $8–$21.

PorkopolisFLAVOR: Owner Nick Longo, head guy at Nick’s Chops andChasers, offers a menu created around his signature bone-less pork chops and BBQ ribs. Pork chop options range fromblackened to ranch and Normandy styles, but tried-and-trueflavor combinations like pork and sauerkraut are the menustars.FLAIR: The grill’s location in the former Rookwood Pottery build-ing gives you a full swig of Cincinnati history complete with seat-ing in the actual kiln, photos of beefy Germanic potters and adisplay case of the famous ware.1077 Celestial St., Mount Adams, 513-721-5456. Open 7 days.$11-$30.

The Pub at Crestview Hills FLAVOR: Once upon a time, the sun never set on the Britishempire — so the pub calls all the world’s food British, includingcheeseburgers, chicken wings and ahi tuna satay. Whatever.Still, there are bangers and mash! And in spite of the dubiouslinks to the peerage, it’s good, well prepared bar food. Happyhour is 3-7 p.m. and 9 p.m. until close weekdays. FLAIR: Fun, casual atmosphere in the popular Crestview Hillsmall, the Pub gets a good young professional crowd. Great

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4609 Kellogg Ave • 513-871-1820Located in the Four Seasons Marina

Just 2 miles west of Riverbend, Coney Island & River Downs

Open at 5pm Tuesday-Sunday

Great New Casual Menu & Nautical Atmosphere!Great Appetizers • Fresh Seafood

Steaks • Prime Rib • Burgers • Sandwiches

WWW.4-SEASONS.COM

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4609 Kellogg Ave • 513-871-1820Located in the Four Seasons Marina

Just 2 miles west of Riverbend, Coney Island & River Downs

Enjoy the Country's Largest Tiki Hut!Enjoy the Country's Largest Tiki Hut!

Blue Bird Trio

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Tue/Wed/Thu 6:30-10:30p

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Sundays 4-6p

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selection of beers and ales imported from Scotland, England,Belgium and Ireland. 2853 Dixie Hwy., Crestview Hills, 859-426-7827. Open 7 days.$8-$26.

Schoolhouse RestaurantFLAVOR: While it’s not the peanut butter sandwiches andTwinkies mom packed your Ninja Turtle lunchbox with, it is com-fort food only a mother could make. Fried chicken, meatloaf,mashed potatoes and gravy, corn fritters, roast beef, cobblers,ice cream sundaes, cakes and pies — all written in perfect cur-sive on the chalkboard and served by clones of our elementaryschool lunch lady.FLAIR: A Civil War-era schoolhouse (and the first two-story schoolbuilding in the Midwest), it fills with area families.8031 Glendale-Milford Road, Camp Dennison, 513-831-5753.Open Thursday-Sunday. $11-$17.

Sully’s FLAVOR: A vast menu of pub grub, including some nods in theCeltic direction with fish and chips, Guinness-enhancedShepherd’s pie and corned beef with boiled red potatoes, cab-bage and mustard sauce, just like Mother McGee used to make.FLAIR: This large, upscale sports bar has become a home basefor Reds and Bengals fans. With 18 big-screen TVs and themedevents like toga and keg parties, Sully’s is party central.700 Race St., Downtown, 513-381-4302. Open 7 days. $12-$20.

Universal GrilleFLAVOR: How do you like your burger? Rare, medium, absolutelyfabulous? This gay- and straight-friendly burger joint has under-gone recent menu changes, but the burgers are still incredible.Recently reintroduced a lunch menu after being dinner-only for awhile.FLAIR: Clientele is truly a melting pot, with a daytime businesscrowd giving way to an animated party crowd. Thursday nightsoffers fun, flamboyant karaoke.911 Vine St., Downtown, 513-381-6279. Open 7 days. $8-$25.

COFFEEHOUSESBrutopiaFLAVOR: Features an Italian-style espresso bar where employeeshand-build all the drinks. A small daily menu includes soups,salads, sandwiches, quiches and baked goods as well as inven-tive smoothies all with fresh ingredients like the More Amorewith strawberries, banana, organic dark chocolate and creamand the Red Riding Hood with strawberries, blueberries, organicvanilla yogurt and honey.FLAIR: Owned by a co-op, Brutopia serves up locally roasted fair-trade coffee, which helps ensure basic human rights protectionsand fair payment to small coffee farmers around the globe. Theyalso feature fair-trade tea, sugar and chocolate. Along with doingyour part in making the world a better place, you get the hottestcup of coffee on Earth.276 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, 513-861-4278. Open 7 days. $5-$7.

BuZZthru Espresso BarFLAVOR: An eclectic and cluttered coffeehouse in the heart ofLoveland with a great selection of coffee, pastries and muffins,a diverse clientele, a few comfy chairs and an overstocked book-shelf. Perfect!FLAIR: If you’re in a hurry, use BuZZthru’s drive-thru window andyou don’t even have to get out of your car.807 Loveland-Madeira Road, Loveland. 513-677-2555. Open 7days. Nothing over $5.

Coffee EmporiumFLAVOR: Spend your time creating the perfect drink — pick thetype of bean, choose between caffeinated/decaffeinated, add asyrup addition or choose a flavor. The emphasis is on the cof-fee, but some food is offered, including soup from Myra’s.FLAIR: Walking into this roasting company, take a minute tobreathe in the intense, hypnotic coffee scent. The modern down-town store is awash with coffee and tea smells. Scattered seatsaround the store are available for sitting and chatting, and a barby the large windows offers refuge for the solo diners. The HydePark location is a diminutive Victorian with a quaint wisteria-cov-ered arbor.110 E. Central Pkwy., Downtown, 513-651-5483. Open Monday-Saturday; 3316 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-321-5943. Open 7days. $2-$7.

Kaldi’sFLAVOR: Kaldi’s is crazy with $4 burger mania on Tuesday nightsthis summer, and old favorites like the hummus appetizer and agingery curried chicken salad sandwich. Sunday brunch featuresa Mediterranean omelet with olives, feta, roasted red peppersand artichokes.FLAIR: A neighborhood anchor, Kaldi’s is the gathering place forartists, musicians, neighborhood folk and business people. Therestaurant continues to offer a space for artists to show theirworks and musicians to play under the watchful eye of the illus-trious goat head. Live music on Fridays. 1202 Main St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-241-3070. Open 7 days.$3-$8.

Rohs Street Café FLAVOR: In the mood for a perfectly prepared espresso or cap-puccino? Then head down to Rohs Street Café, which featuresfair-trade, organic coffee from a local micro-roaster, assuring ahigh quality brew every time. Home-baked muffins and sconesare available along with a soup of the day.FLAIR: The large, open space serves as more than a café — it’sa bookstore, an art gallery, a venue for musical performances bygreat local acts and a place for neighborhood groups to getorganized. So stop in, hang out and, if you want to, see how youcan help make a difference!245 W. McMillan Ave., Clifton Heights, 513-328-7647. OpenMonday-Saturday. $1.50-$4.25.

Sidewinder Coffee and TeaFLAVOR: The café offers a small collection of yummy items likevegan and non-vegan baked goods, soup, the turkey and Swissbreakfast burrito (get there earlier, they sell out fast) and macand cheese, as well as locally roasted fair-trade and organic cof-fees, espresso drinks and a large selection of blended andloose-leaf teas not found anywhere else. If you’re hungry, trysome of their tasty treats like vegan baked goods.FLAIR: When you’re ready to come over to the hip side, start inSidewinder’s funky inside or courtyard. There’s acoustic music 1-3:30 p.m. Sundays; 7-9:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays andsemi-regular open mics and poetry slams. Check out the latestart exhibit, hook up your WiFi and answer your e-mail, then, forti-fied on the elixir of life (espresso), go forth and exploreNorthside.4181 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-542-8321. Open 7 days.$1.25-$5.

Sitwell’sFLAVOR: Enjoy a wide range of coffee and alcoholic drinks or trya bowl of homemade soup. Treat yourself to an enormous shake(worth every bit of $5) or stick to their award-winning salads.The New York Egg Sandwich is the single most popular item onthe menu. Try one on a Sunday morning with the sun angling inthrough the windows, and you’ll know why. Delicious.FLAIR: You can nurse a bottomless cup of coffee all day for $3.Check the schedule: They regularly play host to a local Celticmusic group, an enthusiastic puppet troupe and other entertain-ers.324 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, 513-281-7487. Open 7 days. $10-$25.

EASTERN EUROPEANIron SkilletFLAVOR: Goulash is most definitely the flavor here, with five dif-ferent types from which to choose on the lunch menu alone.Other favorites include stuffed cabbage, sauerbraten and chick-en paprikash. As the self-proclaimed home of the “BestSchnitzels in Town,” it is your solemn duty to try one of the 10different kinds available. The hot slaw is a delicious surprise,both sweet and pleasantly sour at the same time. For the lessadventurous, there are plenty of steak and sandwich options.FLAIR: Lots to enjoy in this spacious and airy dining room.6900 Valley Lane, Newtown, 513-561-6776. Open Tuesday-Sunday. $9-$22.

Roberto’s FLAVOR: An ambitious and surprising menu with dishes fromRussian and Eastern European to Mediterranean, LatinAmerican and Caribbean. For appetizers, try the empanadas orthe patacones, flattened and battered disc-shaped patties ofseasoned plantain. The paella is delicious and flavorful, aheaped and generous order of slow-cooked rice filled with roast-ed red peppers, pork, chicken, spicy pieces of chorizo sausage,shrimp and clams served in their shells.

341 Ludlow Ave • Cincinnati • 513.861.6800

$700 OFF2nd Dinner Entree

Buy 1 dinner entree at regular price and get 2nd dinner entree for

$7.00 off - dine in and carry outLimit 2 coupons per party.

CLIFTON APNA INDIA

$150

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$300

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$1 OFF1 Buffet

or $2 OFF2 Buffets

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GRAND INDIA BUFFETNorthern & Southern Indian Cuisine

Buffet All Day Long!

$699

LunchBuffet

$899

DinnerBuffet

FREE parking in the Clifton Business Lot (located on Howell)

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FLAIR: When you’ve had enough of the Subway and McDonald’sfranchises that dominate Loveland, Roberto’s is a great spot fora paella and a glass of wine.784 Loveland-Miami Road, Loveland, 513-683-9882. OpenTuesday-Saturday. $12-$29.

FRENCHJean Robert at PigallsFLAVOR: French, fresh and (whenever possible) local. In summer,“the menu changes every time a farmer shows up at the backdoor.” But when those humble ingredients arrive in the diningroom, they’ve been transformed into four-star haute cuisine. FLAIR: This is the gem in the Queen City’s crown, but having saidthat, understand that perfect is not stuffy. Pigall’s is fine diningfor today, and while polished service is the rule, jackets and tiesare required only for the maitre d’, not the guests. The four-course celebration menu is surprisingly affordable at $40; winepairings are $20 more. You owe it to yourself to go. Winner of“Best Overall Restauran” (tied with Boca).127 W. Fourth St., Downtown, 513-721-1345. Open Tuesday-Saturday. Three-course prix fixe: $74; five-course prix fixe: $97.

Lavomatic FLAVOR: Chef Joanne Drilling describes the food as rustic, full-fla-vored French fare, and they use local ingredients as much aspossible: the buffalo, rabbit and chicken are all farmed locallyand the dessert menu includes Madisono’s gelato and sorbets.Enjoy appetizers such as the Charcuterie with cured meats,meat mousse, pate and homemade pickled vegetable, SnailSkewers with Provencal vegetables or the Tarte Flambé.FLAIR: How do you make dirty laundry hip and trendy? One waywould be to sell it on eBay, but the Jean-Robert de Cavel familyfound a tastier approach with its latest venture — a new winebar and restaurant. The restaurant is a unique blend of thegood things from our past and future. Housed in what was mostlikely a neighborhood Laundromat, the space also embraces anenvironmentally sound future in its design which features bam-boo floors and tables, a bar made of cork and table bases thatare recycled from Grammer’s.1211 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-621-1999. Open 7 days. $8-$18

TwistFLAVOR: Food is served from the Petite Bite Menu, where playful,fanciful food is as fun as it is sophisticated. Every dish isdesigned for sharing. The Twist French Castle is a bleu cheesestuffed meatball “slider.” The Smoked Salmon Two Way is a sliv-er of smoked salmon on toast, topped with a swirl of salmonmousse and garnished with a quarter of a hard-boiled quail’segg.FLAIR: Twist is Fourth Street’s answer to big-city style with wineand nibbles in a setting worthy of Sex and the City. Beautifulroom, beautiful people, beautiful food. Great jumping off pointfor dinner at Pigall’s or an evening of its own.129 W. Fourth St., Downtown 513-721-1345 Open 7 days. $6-$9.

GERMANChristy’s/Lenhardt’sFLAVOR: Appetizers are more Buffalo Wild Wings than Budapest,but entrées are very traditional Hungarian-German, heavy on themeat and the paprika. Try the Hungarian Goulash, ChickenPaprikasch or Sauerbraten along with spaetzle (small but fillingstringy-looking dumplings) or an enormous fried potato pancake.FLAIR: Still family-owned after three generations,Christy’s/Lenhardt’s is a piece of Cincinnati history. Housed inthe once-regal surroundings of the former Moerlein mansion, itprovides a glimpse into the area’s storied German past. Serviceis welcoming and friendly, and there’s bocce ball in the summer.151 W. McMillan Ave., Clifton Heights, 513-281-3600. OpenTuesday-Saturday. $8-$12.

HofbräuhausFLAVOR: Take it from someone who grew up thinking sauerkrautwas one of the four food groups — this is the real deal. Orderthe Schweinsbraten mit Kruste; after all, who doesn’t love roastpork loin? Sauerbraten is their most popular dish, and they havea wurst for every occasion.FLAIR: Genuine German beer hall mit der gusto. You can standon your chair and yell “More beer!” over and over and not getthrown out. And if you start singing “Edelweiss” after your third

Munich Weizen, you’re not the first. Winner of “Best German.”Don’t miss the traditional German house band, playing every dayafter 1 p.m. Oompah!200 E. Third St., Newport, 859-491-7200. Open 7 days. $10-$25.

Mecklenburg Gardens FLAVOR: Zinzinnati’s German heritage lives on at Mecklenburg’s— their schnitzel is second to none. With a good selection oftraditional German classics and Chef Brett Crowe’s innovationslike pan-seared lake perch or roasted lamb over creamy northernbeans, alles gut!FLAIR: Mecklenburg Gardens is a Cincinnati landmark datingback to 1865 that owner Tom Harten rescued from abandon-ment in 1996. Now, as Tom says, they’re “alive and well after141 years.” There’s live music most Friday and Saturday nightsfeaturing bluesy sounds and traditional German tunes.302 E. University Ave., Corryville, 513-221-5353. Open Monday-Saturday. $18-$22.

HOMESTYLEAnchor GrillFLAVOR: Get your goetta groove on here, as the traditional goettaand eggs breakfast is served 24/7; go wild and try a GLT. Youonly live once! The Anchor Burger is another big seller, as is thebuttery grilled yellow cheese on Wonder Bread, the way Godmeant us to eat it.FLAIR: We’ve dived and gone to heaven at the Anchor Grill. Thethird shift rules here — a late-night paradise with “live” enter-tainment from the miniature electronic band featuring Barbieand Ken. Servers are “waddya-havin’-hon’” efficient, and theparade of nocturnal characters is better than any reality televi-sion show.438 Pike St., Covington, 859-431-9498. Open 24/7. $4-$12.

The EchoFLAVOR: A favorite since 1945 with Eastsiders, The Echo is a no-frills diner serving Midwest classic homestyle favorites frommeatloaf to grilled cheese and eggs, goetta and home fries tochef’s salads and fish sandwiches. The breaded cod and beefand cheese loaf are some new fare.FLAIR: None really, not even any wisecracking, surly waitresses.Just a straightforward, family-friendly, relaxed neighborhood gath-ering place — like eating in your great aunt’s kitchen withouthaving to help her wash the dishes.3510 Edwards Road, Hyde Park, 513-321-2816. Open 7 days.$7-$17.

HathawaysFLAVOR: The old-fashioned flavors of the soda counter, includingthe best darn chocolate shakes in town, classic cheeseburgersor Hathaway’s specialty salad with a scoop of cottage cheese,yogurt, coconut, walnuts, raisins, fruit, and apricot dressing,served with a hot cinnamon muffin. Also serves up excellentbreakfasts. FLAIR: Recently refurbished but still a classic diner. The décorand the lighting are bright, with vintage boomerang patternedFormica countertops, lots of chrome and tile in turquoise andblack. There are great historical photos on the walls and vintagemusic circa Bobby Darin and Ella Fitzgerald.441 Vine St. in the Carew Tower, Downtown, 513-621-1332.Open Monday–Saturday. $4-$9.

The Hitching PostFLAVOR: “World’s Best Fried Chicken” is this diner’s claim tofame, but we’re there in a New York minute for mac ’n cheeseor any, and we mean any, of Aunt Ruth’s pies, which have analmost cult following (you can order them whole to go as well,and we do). Made from scratch Fetuccini is available everyFriday.FLAIR: Checkered tablecloths and the whole diner nine yards withkitschy-cute memorabilia and family photos adorning the walls.2715 Madison Road, Hyde Park, 513-871-9201. Open Tuesday-Sunday. $4-$13.

J&J’s RestaurantFLAVOR: One of those comforting, back-in-the-day family restau-rants that serves breakfast anytime and the best two-fisted dou-ble-deckers going. The home fries are a must — weighing in ata pound, one order could easily serve four.FLAIR: J&J’s has a staunch stable of regulars to fill its booths.You might not get much small talk out of the waitresses who fly

3120 Madison Rd • 513-321-1600

2303 Buttermilk Crossings • Crescent Springs, KY859-341-5858

Guru

24 East 6th St • 513-723-1300• Open 7 Days a Week •

350 Ludlow • 513-281-7000Additional Parking Available in Clifton Business Lot (next to IGA)

"Best Indian"

through the dining room like whirling dervish-es, but you’ll get a smile and fast, efficientservice.6159 Glenway Ave., Westwood, 513-661-2260.Open Monday-Saturday. $6-$8.

Pepper PodFLAVOR: All the food is homemade here, and sois the staff, with several of founder EddieBarton’s grandsons now working at the restau-rant, located in Newport since 1970. Themenu includes chili, mozzarella cheese sticks,meatloaf, potato soup with cheddar cheeseand all-day breakfast. Better still, it’s open 24hours a day, so it doesn’t matter if you wantyour breakfast at 3 p.m. or 3 a.m. The meat-loaf goes quickly in the evening.FLAIR: The wall-to-wall fluorescent lights arereally bright, the kitchen is a whirlwind andfriendly waitresses do laps around the centerisland to get to their tables. Specials aremagic-markered on paper and stuck to thewall.703 Monmouth St., Newport, 859-431-7455.Open 24/7. $2-$8.

Ron’s RoostFLAVOR: There’s plenty of chicken here (baked,barbecued and fried) but the menu has otheroptions like filet mignon, barbecued pork ribsand the popular Oktoberfest Sauerbraten. Anddon’t forget the hot bacon slaw, mock turtlesoup and homemade cream pies.FLAIR: With the giant Fiberglass rooster on theroof, the restaurant has been a West Sideinstitution for more than 45 years. Inside isfilled with chicken décor (it is too a style!) andsports memorabilia. The mom-and-pop jointalmost always has a wait, so come in early orstop by late to avoid the rush.3853 Race Road, Bridgetown, 513-574-0222.Open 7 days. $10-$20.

Tucker’sFLAVOR: Well known for its hearty, fresh food,with the best vegetarian omelet and deluxehash browns this side of hash heaven. Theowners buy most of their products at nearbyFindlay Market. Try the Big Tucker, a double-decker burger with cheese and special sauce.Other standbys include biscuits and gravy and

THAIJAPANESE

VIETNAMESEHIBACHI COMING SOON

513.533.95003655 Edwards Road • Cincinnati, OH 45208

Comfortable, InvitingAward Winning Atmosphere!

41 East 4th Street • Downtown • 513.381.335441 East 4th Street • Downtown • 513.381.3354

B r e a k f a s t • L u n c h • C a t e r i n gB r e a k f a s t • L u n c h • C a t e r i n g

PORKOPOLISLOCATION: 1077 Celestial St., Mount Adams, 513-721-5456

CUISINE: Famous for pork chops (not surprisingly) but also offers entrees such as FiletMignon and upscale apps, pub sandwiches and pastas.

TABLE: The Kiln Room of historic Rookwood Pottery, one of the first businesses run by awoman, started in 1879. Rookwood soon became famous for its pottery made from theclay of the Ohio River and is still a tourist destination. (Some people come from out oftown just to eat in the Kiln Room.)

NICKNAME: The Kiln

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: The three Kiln rooms, where pottery was once fired, now pro-vide a cozy, private dining experience far from the usual restaurant noise.

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: The Kiln is the perfect place to have private conversations with signifi-cant others or friends because you’re completely sequestered from the rest of the restau-rant. So next time you want to kvetch to your significant other about work troubles, or yourfriend discovers her SO is cheating and calls you for that glass of wine, think “kiln.” Alsothink kiln for atmosphere. The portals at the bottom of the kiln are great fun for little kidsand inebriated adults to “squeeze and peek through” for fun. Dim lighting, colorful muralsand a funky dome shape definitely make for an otherworldly dining experience.

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: Our server said she loves this table because of its his-tory and says she loves working for owner and longtime acquaintance Nick Longo, who alsoowns Nick’s Chops and Chasers.(Heather Smith)

PHOTO: RAVEN BULL

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FAVORITE TABLES

the fried cod sandwich. The milkshakes, sadly,are no more, but there’s always a big, heartyportions. FLAIR: A vibrant piece of history, Tucker’s hasbeen a fixture on Vine Street since 1949. It’sdefinitely no-frills and very high on atmos-phere, with lots of regulars and walls hung withmemorabilia from the past half-century.1637 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-721-7123.Open Monday-Saturday. $4-$7.

INDIANAmbar FLAVOR: A wonderful, colorful, aromatic range ofmeat and vegetarian dishes, served up in theheart of Clifton’s leafy gaslight district.FLAIR: The chicken makhani is the most deli-cious, richest Indian dish we’ve ever tastedanywhere. Ever. Despite many seriousattempts, it cannot be replicated at home.Winner of “Best Indian.”350 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, 513-281-7000. Open7 days. $10-$16.

AmolFLAVOR: North Indian fare such as Saag Paneer(spinach, onions, ginger, Indian spices andIndian cheese with a hint of cream) andChicken Korma (pieces of chicken cooked in acream curry sauce with nuts and raisins).Complete the meal with an order of Naan —there are 10 varieties to choose from includinggarlic and paneer (cheese filled).FLAIR: The tantalizing smell of aromatic spiceswill have you salivating as you slide into one ofthe many booths in the large dining room. Enjoythe tinkling sounds of Eastern music as youpoint to your entrée selections for the server.354 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, 513-961-3600. Open7 days. $8-$14.

Apna Indian RestaurantFLAVOR: Along with traditional favorites like SaagPaneer, Bhartha and Nav Rattan Korma (analmost chocolaty mix of vegetables, cashewsand cream), look for novel selections such asthe Kadai Ginger Chicken and Goat Curry.FLAIR: The latest addition to Clifton’s bevy ofIndian restaurants offers a tasty, affordablebuffet at lunch and dinner. 341 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, 513-861-6800. Open7 days. $9-$14.

CuminFLAVOR: Chef/co-owner Yajan Upadhyaya makesmagic in the kitchen bending Indian cuisineinto tantalizing new creations that will makeyou feel like you’re in New York or Los Angeles.The best in Asian fusion. Try Murgh Dhaniwalwith Tandoori chicken, cashew nut gravy, andcaramelized onions, or Duck Sooley, a tea-smoked tandoori duck breast with lemongrass-coconut risotto. Pair this with one of the mostcomprehensive wine lists in the city and livemusic every night, and you can’t go wrong on adate.FLAIR: The restaurant’s new space shows offclean lines that evoke a Japanese aestheticcomplete with a Warli tribal art mural paintedby Rekha Upadhyaya, Yajan’s mother. The bararea, co-owner Alex Mchaikhi’s baby, pulsateswith primary colors and music. Try one of thesignature cocktails like the Bollywood (a gingerinfused pomegranate juice mixed with cham-pagne) or a Coconut Mojito (Cuban rum, Indianspice and coconut milk). 3520 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-871-8714.Open Tuesday-Saturday (lunch and dinner). $6-$28.

KrishnaFLAVOR: Our mouth waters just thinking abouttheir Indian cuisine. The saag paneer and the

samosas are works of wonder. It’s deliciousbut no-frills, served in a Styrofoam carryoutbox.FLAIR: Basic, tight quarters are provided, asthree small booths sit opposite the cookingand cashier line. Taken to go or eat in, it’s afine thing to be overpowered by Krishna’ssteamy, curried haze.313 Calhoun St., Clifton Heights, 513-961-2878. Open 7 days. $7-$10.

Amma’s KitchenFLAVOR: Be prepared for flavor, as the one-of-a-kind dishes here stand out in the Indiancrowd. Amma’s serves 100 percent vegetariancuisine. Try the Malai Kofta (cashews, almondsand cheese in a tomato-based gravy) or theChana Batura (puffy bread served with chick-pea curry). For newbies, the weekday lunchbuffet is a great way to nibble and taste.FLAIR: More interested in food than décor,Amma’s is simple yet comfortable. The serviceis straightforward rather than warm and fuzzy;these gentlemen are very serious about theirfood.7633 Reading Road, Roselawn, 513-821-2021. Open Wednesday-Monday. $5-$12.

ITALIANBarresi’sFLAVOR: From their signature bread, Zeppole, tohomemade desserts, Barresi’s food is nothingshort of fabulous. This upscale Italian eateryfood that can be described by three words: todie for. Favorites include the Osso BucoMilanese with risotto and the SalmonCardinale with lobster cream sauce. Menuoptions also include other milk-fed veal dishes,traditional pastas, chicken, steaks andseafood. FLAIR: Stellar fine-dining service has helpedBarresi’s keep its status as a dining gem since1963. The current owner, Sarah Wagner, mixesthings up a bit with wine-tastings, cookingclasses and a monthly carryout special.4111 Webster Ave., Deer Park, 513-793-2540.Open Tuesday-Saturday. $21-$40.

Bella LunaFLAVOR: Authentic Italian recipes from the Sicilyand the Calabria regions of Italy, includingmarsala, tiramisu and chicken in Chianti withprosciutto. Better still, bottles of wine are halfprice on Wednesdays, and draft beers are 99cents every day except Saturday.FLAIR: A fun and eclectic atmosphere, withowner Harry Stephens making the rounds. 4632 Eastern Ave., East End, 513-871-5862.Open Tuesday-Sunday. $13-$25.

Betta’s Italian CuisineFLAVOR: Betta serves good, old-fashionedItalian food like Eggplant Parmigiano, SummerFettuccini and Chicken Cacciatore, but look forinnovative dishes like the Filo Chicken andProsciutto Melone appetizer as well.FLAIR: Quite simply, Betta herself. She makesyou feel warm and welcome. Even if you’re inhurry you’ll want to sit a spell and enjoyBetta’s company and fine cuisine.1026 Delta Ave., Mount Lookout. 513-871-2233. Open Monday-Saturday. $10-$15.

Betta’s Italian OvenFLAVOR: Pizza’s the word here. Will DeLuca’s630-degree wood-fired oven produces tasty,thin-crust pies like the Quattro Stagioni withkalamata olives, proscuitto, tomatoes andfresh mozzarella and breadsticks, including thespicy pepperoni sticks. If pizza’s not yourthing, go for the Eggplant Parmesan; it’smeaty, creamy, smoky and all-around delicious. FLAIR: Serious food for people that work hard

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A Taste of Spain in Cincinnati

1544 Madison Road | Eas t Walnut H i l l s | 513.221.SENYwww.senyc incy.com

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Wednesday • 9pm-1:30am

Karaokewith the Jodians

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& musicians vary weekly

Food & Spirits In NorthsideFri & Sat Nights Kitchen open til 4am

1686 Blue Rock St.

www.boswellalley.com

513.681.8100

and laugh loud. There are plenty of regularsfilling the tables every night — always a signof a consistently good meal.3764 Montgomery Road, Norwood, 513-631-6836. Open Monday-Saturday. $9-$14.

Biagio’s BistroFLAVOR: Homemade pasta dishes and dessertseasily turn this simple little bistro into a week-ly stop. Owner/chef Biagio makes the pastadishes in full view including the PenneBoscaiola with tomatoes, meat sauce, mush-rooms, cream and peas and his wonderful

Pasta Primavera with Pesto. And we just adoreBiagio’s Balls! Get your mind out of the gutter— we’re talking about his scrumptiousBavarian Cream Puffs.FLAIR: The scent of garlic hits you like a velvethammer as you walk in. The casual décor andcozy atmosphere make this a great stopbefore or after a movie at The Esquire. Onbusy nights Biagio himself jumps into server ifthe servers get behind.308 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, 513-861-4777. OpenMonday-Saturday. $7-$15.

Bravo Cucina ItalianaFLAVOR: Although they’re a chain, with over 30restaurants, Bravo doesn’t lack uniqueness,serving up a varied menu of fresh, well-execut-ed and flavorful Italian food. Try their pizzasand flatbreads or house specialties like themeaty Mama’s Lasagna Bolognese or thePasta Bravo tossed with grilled chicken, mush-rooms and a red pepper sauce.FLAIR: Stylish yet relaxed, with all cooking donein plain sight in an enormous open kitchen.Bravo is accommodating for groups: set it upahead of time and they’ll print special menuswith your name on it (even for parties as smallas two).12110 Montgomery Road, Symmes Twp., 513-583-0583; 9436 Water Front Drive, WestChester, 513-759-9398. Open 7 days. $10-$27.

Brio Tuscan GrilleFLAVOR: Upscale Tuscan-inspired dining featur-ing Mama’s Lasagna Bolognese made from thefounder’s original recipe. Give them a try forSaturday and Sunday Bellini Brunch, featuringFrittata al Forno, Tuscan French Toast withmarscapone cheese and more.FLAIR: Great date place, as it’s not terribly loudand there are lots of things to split. The alfresco area is nice, but you sometimes feelforgotten out there if they’re not fully staffed.Newport on the Levee, Newport, 859-431-0900. Open 7 days. $15-$22.

Ferrari’s Little Italy and Bakery FLAVOR: An impressive selection of dishes fromNorthern and Southern Italy, with daily seafoodspecials and an on-site bakery. Try the seafoodcannelloni (cheese- and seafood-filled manicot-ti with a creamy lobster basil sauce) or theparmesan-crusted sole with lemon butter. Ifthere’s an Italian dish that’s not on this menu,you won’t miss it. From antipasti to ziti, it’shere — and it’s authentic. FLAIR: An outdoor patio in a wooded settingwith wisteria vines or indoor informality.Ferrari’s is family owned and operated, andthey’re proud of what they do 7677 Goff Terrace, Madeira. 513-272-2220.Restaurant open 7 days, bakery closedSundays. $12-$29.

Germano’s FLAVOR: Chef Germano is certainly adept atserving up the more “Americanized” Italianfare such as gnocchi, veal tenders and familiarpastas, but his real talent is in creating deli-cious and exotic dishes that reveal the oldcountry in every delicious bite. Be forewarned:If you order the Raspberry Pie, it’ll haunt yourdreams until you have to go back to get anoth-er; before you know it, you’re ordering wholepies to go.FLAIR: The setting here is informal but notcasual, intimate but not cramped. In fact, eat-ing at Germano’s is like stumbling on an Italianfamily’s Sunday dinner — and being invited tojoin the party.9415 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, 513-794-1155. Open Tuesday-Saturday. $17-$40.

Mama Vita’sFLAVOR: Good homestyle Italian cooking withAmerican flair. Features award-winning pizzathat rivals Tavern on the Hill and manicotti thatwon “Best Carryout” from us in 2001. MamaVita’s pizzas range from Pesto Pizza withhomemade pesto, ultra-fresh mushrooms andonions and rich mozzarella and feta cheese toAmerican favorites, such as the BBQ Chickenand Southwestern Pizzas. Mama’s also servesup good apps — try the Torino Bruschetta andGarlic Cheese Bread.FLAIR: Postmodern Olive Garden, down to thesleek tables and chairs. Small, cozy and fami-

ly-friendly. Pizzas can be picked up frozen andtaken home to bake. Mama’s Pub next doorserves the same menu, with an outdoor ter-race, live music and wine-tastings.6405 Branch-Hill Guinea Road, Loveland, 513-697-9705. Open Monday-Saturday. $4-$20.

Nicola’s RestaurantFLAVOR: Nicola’s serves cutting-edge Italian-based cuisine that can’t be found anywhereelse in the city. If you can see the beauty in alittle oxtail, try the exquisite Carnaroli Risottowith spring onions, red endive and vaccinarasauce (a flavorful, tomato-based sauce madewith oxtail stew.) If seafood is more palatable,try the Alaskan halibut with hen of the woodsmushrooms, crispy potatoes and cream of arti-chokes. You can also indulge in Chef CristianPietoso’s Grand Tasting menu Monday throughThursday.FLAIR: Quite simply art on a plate. Pietosouses the plate like a canvas. Such a shame toruin his masterpiece, but hey, once you startyou won’t stop until you’ve licked the canvasclean. 1420 Sycamore St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-721-6200. Open Monday-Saturday. $23-$35.

Pitrelli’s Italian Deli and CaféFLAVOR: This independently owned, family-friendly eatery serves simple, delicious Italianfood. Old favorites like spaghetti and home-made meatballs are light and flavorful, andspecials are tasty and filling. Pitrelli’s alsoserves a good pizza with a light crust and top-pings that include pancetta and spicy olives.FLAIR: Neither slick nor chic, Pitrelli’s offersinstead a bona fide Mom and Pop experience.A reason is the family that runs it: Jim andLinda Pitrelli are wonderful people, retiredgrade school teachers who make you feel likeyou’re a guest in their home. The tortellini isalways great and be sure to check out CouplesNight on Thursdays—a meal for two includingsalad, wine, pasta and meatballs for $45.312 Reading Road, Mason, 513-770-0122.Open Tuesday-Saturday. $14-$18.

Pompilio’sFLAVOR: The tomato sauce that memories aremade of and the sausage that would makeJunior Soprano proud. Homemade pasta, vealparmigiana, meatballs, minestrone — whatsamatter f’you? Eat!FLAIR: Traditional Italian in the heart ofNewport, and we do mean heart. This is oldschool — no shiny Levee chain stuff here.600 Washington Ave., Newport, 859-581-3065. Open 7 days. $8-$13.

Primavista FLAVOR: Genuine flavors and tastes of Italy,from the roasted garlic cloves that come withyour bread basket to the blissfully rich ossobucco Milanese, served with orzo pasta and atiny fork to scoop out the rich bone marrow.Shrimp Antoinette is served atop warm crou-tons in a wonderful, garlicky sherry sauce.Gnocchi sautéed in butter with prosciutto andbasil melts in your mouth, and the bread pud-ding is the best we’ve ever had.FLAIR: High atop Price Hill overlooking the new“Cincinnati” convention center sign. The décoris subdued and rich drapes soften the rooms.A stone accent wall, fresh crisp linens and(most of all) the view make it distinctive.Winner of “Best Restaurant With a View.”810 Matson Place, Price Hill, 513-251-6467.Open 7 days. $16-$36.

Scotti’sFLAVOR: Serves authentic Italian food, withpasta and veal dishes as the specialty.Established in 1912, Scotti’s offers a largeselection of pasta to accompany a large selec-

THE PALACELOCATION: 602 Vine St., Downtown, 513-381-3000

CUISINE: New American

TABLE: The Kitchen Table is, well, in the kitchen, of course! The dark cherry wood is cov-ered with a linen table cloth and service plates similar to those in the dining room sothat even though you’re eating “downstairs” the service is definitely “upstairs.”

NICKNAME: Chef Romuald Jung (aka Chef Romy) just calls it the Kitchen Table but he likesthe idea of a nickname and is open to suggestions. Perhaps Table d’Aliments Excellents(the table of excellent food)?

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: Restaurants draw a firm line between public and privatelives, better known as the front and back of the house. We seldom get more than a fleet-ing glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes as a server hurries through a swingingstainless steel door. It takes a consummate professional and a magnanimous spirit to bewilling to not only break this barrier but embrace the public into the private world of thefine dining kitchen. And what lies behind that swinging door? Chef says that if you’ve onlyseen Hell’s Kitchen you’re in for a surprise: “Most people are pretty much blown away bythe cleanliness and the way we work. It’s like an orchestra: No one is talking, and every-one knows what they have to do. It’s a symphony. I love my guests, and having them inthe kitchen here is like having them in the dining room at your house.”

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: When I think of kitchen tables I think of a place we spend time withthose closest to us — people who don’t care if we straightened the house or washed ourhair that day. People that just want to share our company, some good food and a laugh.That’s how Chef Romy approaches his table. At his kitchen table he can combine his pas-sion for food and enthusiasm for his guests. In the kitchen you can steal a few more min-utes of his time to talk about food and life and have a good laugh. If you’re lucky, hemight even let you come behind the line with him and help stir the risotto.

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: While Chef gets immediate gratification from hisnightly dining room visits, he knows his staff doesn’t have the same pleasure. He saysthe Kitchen Table gives them the chance to watch people enjoy the food they so expertlyprepare.(Lora Arduser)

PHOTO: EMILY MAXWELL

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tion of sauces, many of which can be meat-less. There is an extensive wine list to pairwith any meal. For veal lovers, try the VealCutlet a la Parmigiana, breaded veal in a toma-to sauce topped with Mozzarella cheese.FLAIR: Inside is a dark cave-like interior withred-checked tablecloths, stalactite-like winebottles layered with years of candle drippingsand multi-colored tiles psychedelically plas-tered everywhere.919 Vine St., Downtown, 513-721-9484. OpenTuesday-Saturday. $19-$30.

Spicy PickleFLAVOR: The Denver-based chain’s menu offersa selection of panini, salads, subs and wood-fired pizzettis (an 11-inch thin crust pizza) suchas the Aztec pizzetti with roasted chicken, redonions, green peers, mozzarella and chipotlepesto. Salads are a cut above the usual casu-al fare options, featuring interesting ingredi-ents like roasted portobello, toasted hazelnut,grilled onion and sun dried tomato. FLAIR: This Clifton Heights storefront hasscreamed out for a good restaurant. An eager,knowledgeable young staff makes us certainthe space has found its soul mate. 2504 W. Clifton Ave., Clifton Heights, 513-569-0000. Open 7 days. $2.50-$7.45

Trattoria RomaFLAVOR: Entrées feature seafood, veal, freshpasta, chicken and aged Angus beef, includinga mouth-watering lasagna made with home-made pasta and sauce, ground beef and ablend of five cheeses. Trattoria makes all theirpasta, bread, sauces and desserts fromscratch.FLAIR: A cozy, romantic venue tucked betweenthe flashier theater district restaurants, thisunassuming spot has a small front room deco-rated in Mediterranean tones and a largerroom in back. Both are filled with tablestopped with the standard red-and-white table-cloths and candle-filled Chianti bottles. Servicecan be personality-dependent, but it’s all apart of the charm.609 Walnut St., Downtown, 513-723-0220.Open Monday-Saturday (usually closed onSundays, but they open for dinner when theAronoff Center has a big show running). $16-$33.

Via ViteFLAVOR: Little sister to its chic sibling Nicola’sRistorante Italiano in the Over-the-Rhine, ViaVite serves more casual fare, but the creativejuices are just the same — owner NicolaPietoso and his son Cristian again pair up togive us another dining treasure. The menuincludes appetizers, wood-fired pizzas (checkof the one with pesto, artichokes and goatcheese), salads, pastas, entrées such as agrilled swordfish that features Grandma’speperonata or an oven-braised lamb shankwith dreamy creamy polenta. FLAIR: Via Vite fills an appalling gap in theFountain Square renovation — a new high-endrestaurant that’s locally owned.520 Vine St., Downtown, 513-721-8483, Open7 days. $18-$27.

Vincenzo’sFLAVOR: Serving up Northern Italian food that itclaims is the only “real” Italian food inCincinnati, Vincenzo’s offers a range of theusual favorites — pasta, ravioli, veal, chickenand the daily seafood special. The food here isa labor of love for the Italian-born chef andowner Vincenzo Mazzocca, who trained as achef in Italy.FLAIR: Recently moved to a larger location (itsformer digs were a small space in a convertedservice station), the new dining room is gracedwith a small fountain and a balcony and has a

spacious, open feel. Service is welcoming andfriendly.11525 Chester Road, Sharonville, 513-771-0022. Open Monday-Saturday. $14-$23.

Vito’s CaféFLAVOR: Vito is always adding to the new delica-cies to his incredible menu, and this springbrings Risotto di giorno, with fabulous flavorslike red wine, pancetta, and gorgonzola orspinach and shitake. Pesce in Acqua Pazza —fish in crazy water — infuses the catch of theday with delectable flavors like spicy tomatobroth. Ragu alla Bolognese is music to themeat lover’s mouth, with pork, veal and beefsimmered to perfection.FLAIR: Speaking of music, you will love theexperience of an evening at Vito’s. The mosttalented servers in town sing for your supper,while Piano Pete tinkles the ivories. 654 Highland Ave., Fort Thomas, 859-442-9444. Open Wednesday-Sunday. $8-$30.

MEDITERRANEAN/MIDDLE EASTERNAndy’s Mediterranean GrillFLAVOR: Expect maximum Mediterranean flavorhere. From its signature Shish Tawook (a mari-nated chicken kebab) and the best Dolmas(grape leaves) in town to the divine baklavaand Turkish coffee, the fare is authentic, deli-cious and accessible. The recently addedFarrouj — half a rotisserie chicken delicatelyseasoned and served with a side salad andFrench fries — is now a permanent menuitem, and new to the menu is Mankoucheh, aMediterranean pizza that comes in number ofvarieties. Don’t forget about the shrimpkabobs. FLAIR: Just the fact that a restaurant with exot-ic foods has a name as average as “Andy’s”appeals to us, but we think belly dancing, thelate, great Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and hookahpipes say it all.906 Nassau Ave., Eden Park, 513-281-9791.Open Monday-Saturday. $15-$23.

Baba Budan’sFLAVOR: There aren’t many places in Cincinnatithat offer both a full bar and a legit coffeeshop. Baba Budan’s offers the best of bothchemically dependent worlds, and the sand-wich menu offers a little extra as well — hum-mus, tabouleh and more. FLAIR: Local art and live entertainment in theform of DJs, open mic nights and other down-home performances. 239 W. McMillan Ave., Clifton Heights, 513-221-1911. Open 7 days. $5-$8.

Café IstanbulFLAVOR: The café offers the expanse ofMediterranean cuisine with everything from theenticing Doner Kebab, an Istanbul streeteatery staple consisting of thinly sliced lambslow-cooked on a vertical spit and served withrice pilaf and vegetables, to VegetarianLasagna and Grilled Apple Salmon. The signa-ture dish is Iskender kabob, a lamb kabob overpita bread cut in strips and cooked in garlickytomato sauce. New to the menu are spicy apri-cot chicken, shrimp kabobs and halibut. FLAIR: A distinctly Middle Eastern tone with tap-estries on the walls and ornate pewter smok-ing pipes. A vague opium-den vibe and the sec-tioned dining room put harems in mind. Newport on the Levee, Newport, 859-581-1777. Open 7 days. $12-$25.

Floyd’sFLAVOR: No matter how many places you’veeaten tabouleh across the country, you’ll still

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say Floyd’s has the best — hand-chopped withjust the right ration of parsley to bulgur wheat.While the Roasted chicken is the restaurant’smost popular dish (wait too long past 5 p.m.and you’re out of luck), the lima beans mashedwith fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil and lemonwill make you forget your childish fear of thismuch-maligned legume.FLAIR: The small, family-run restaurant lendsitself to family-style dining. The intimate set-ting is perfect for relaxing, long meals. Sit bythe front window to people watch or head outback to the secluded patio. Winner of “BestMediterranean.”127 Calhoun St., Clifton Heights, 513-221-2434. Open Tuesday-Saturday. $7-$13.50.

Mediterranean DeliFLAVOR: The friendly fellows on Ludlow Ave. willsell you the freshest Arabic baklava and tellyou the difference between it and other typesof baklava. Lesser known items include Kataifi,Koulourajua and hummus galore. There’s alsoa wide range of Greek and Middle Eastern sal-ads and pita sandwiches. Dolma, hummus,tabouli and baba ganouj are available by thepound as well as a small selection of MiddleEastern grocery items.FLAIR: The food is ideal for making a small pic-nic and hiking over to Burnet Woods, but thereare also a few tables inside.314 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, 513-961-6060. OpenMonday-Saturday. $2-$5.

Mirage Mediterranean Food FLAVOR: Owned by a family that hails fromArmenia, a land-locked former Soviet republicwedged among Turkey, Iran, Azerbaijan andGeorgia, Mirage offers a taste of the cuisinesfrom throughout that region: Russian khinkali(a sort of beef-stuffed ravioli); Armeniankebobs (chicken, pork, beef or lamb); MiddleEastern falafel, hummus and baba ganoush;even gyros from Greece.FLAIR: Heavy drapes, tablecloths and dimmedlighting at night soften the hard edges of afairly plain room in the middle of a strip mall.But the gracious, engaging staff is so enthusi-astic about the terrific homemade food thatyou’ll feel like you’re family.11379 Montgomery Road, Symmes Twp., 513-469-0089. Open Monday-Saturday. $6-$15.

MythosFLAVOR: Most famous gyros in town and aGreek menu like you can only find in New York,according to owner George Psihountakis andsons. Offers moussaka, souvlaki, pastitsio andvegetarian platters — all homemade. Specialsand soups change daily. FLAIR: If you’re downtown and get a craving fora kebab, Mythos is close by. Four locationsmeet your every kebab craving. 650 Walnut St., Downtown, 513-621-9222; 410Vine St., Downtown, 513-381-3601; 100 E.Fourth St., Downtown, 513-381-3042; Openingsoon in the Chiquita Center, 250 E. Fifth St.,Downtown. Open Monday–Saturday. $4-$12.

Sebastian’sFLAVOR: The longtime West Side lunch haunt isjust as delicious as you remember it. An ethnicmeat-lover’s heaven, the menu offers numerousGreek items and what many to consider the bestgyro in Cincinnati. The gyro meat also shows upin the Greek Salad and the Dolmathakia dinner(grape leaves served with gyro meat). FLAIR: Family-run, friendly ambiance. Mostorders are carryout, but there are a few tablesand booths. Watch the gigantic cones of meatspin in front of heat lamps, keeping the meatready to eat.5209 Glenway Ave., Price Hill, 513-471-2100.Open Monday-Saturday. $3-$8.

MEXICANAbuelo’s Mexican Food EmbassyFLAVOR: House specialties include Enchiladasde Cozumel and Salmon San Carlos, and theskewered steak, ubiquitous enchiladas andfajitas are as tasty as you expect. The flan isgood, but for a guilty pleasure, try dessertnachos — a cinnamon “tortilla” cut intoeighths, each piece topped with a mini-scoopof praline ice cream, whipped cream, carameland chocolate sauces.FLAIR: With more than 40 locations, Abuelo’s isattractive and polished but somewhat sanitizedfor the cruise-ship crowd. 2833 Dixie Hwy., Crestview Hills, 859-344-1344; 5010 Deerfield Blvd., Mason, 513-336-7449. Open 7 days. $10-$18.

Cancun Mexican RestaurantFLAVOR: Cancun is great for a large appetiteand a small budget, offering inexpensiveauthentic Mexican dishes. Homemade gua-camole, queso dip and Jalapeno Bean Soupprovide all you need to warm up with one ofthe best margaritas in town. Lunch specialsare ridiculously cheap, and dinners are wellportioned. One of the most popular entrées isthe Fajitas Mexicanas, with your choice ofchicken or steak, served with grilled peppers,onions and tomatoes.FLAIR: The original location in Forest Parkrecently expanded, and the restaurant next toWestern Bowl is spacious and comfy. 11930 Hamilton Ave., Forest Park, 513-851-6310; 6383 Glenway Ave., Western Hills, 513-574-1639. Open 7 days. $5-$14.

Cactus PearFLAVOR: The salsa is black because they roastthe tomatoes. It’s really good, too. Both loca-tions offer a great selection of Southwesterndishes, including a chicken chula vista sand-wich and Shrimp Marguerite pasta. The pitch-ers of frozen margaritas, particularly the san-gria margarita, cure all ills. Get yo’self a desig-nated driver. The Red Pepper Noodles remainsa favorite.FLAIR: More original than Don Pablo’s, but notmuch like Tijuana. 3215 Jefferson Ave., Clifton, 513-961-7400.Open Monday-Saturday; 9100 Kenwood Road,Blue Ash, 513-791-4424. Open 7 days. $8-$22.

ChipotleFLAVOR: In compliance with the company’s“Food With Integrity” campaign, Chipotle’s porkand chicken lived free-range, hormone andantibiotic-free existences before becomingfood. We’re not sure what kind of enclosedspaces the beef grows up in (or what kind ofhormones it is subjected to), but it tastes justas delicious. Burritos, fajita bowls and tacosmade quickly, and a margarita that some call“delicious.” FLAIR: Fast, friendly service makes up for akitschy design of fake art and purposely danky-looking floors. Metal garbage cans are cool.Winner of “Best Burritos/Wraps.”Multiple locations. Open 7 days. $5-$7.

El CoyoteFLAVOR: The area’s pioneer Tex-Mex establish-ment now numbers three local locations, dish-ing out fabulous steaks, fajitas, enchiladas,empanadas and quesadillas. The grilled porkchop served with mashed sweet potatoes is aclassic, and the garlic-mashed potatoes have ahuge fan club. FLAIR: Homey and friendly. Cozy and casual.Locally owned and operated, and proud of it.7404 State Road, Anderson Twp., 513-232-

BOCALOCATION: 3200 Madison Ave., Oakley, 513-542-2022

CUISINE: Elegant haute cuisine; new menu daily

TABLE: A plush, rust-colored banquette along the side wall and right in the middle. Seatedin the banquette, you face all the action (and other patrons) in the demure, sophisticatedand highly regarded restaurant. It also intimately faces your partner, sitting in a chair fac-ing you.

NICKNAME: None

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: There are actually several such tables here, but the restau-rant doesn’t necessarily set or space them all for just two people. So it takes luck, theright night and usually a reservation to get one.

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: It makes you an organic part of the restaurant. If you look to theright, you can look up and partially see the chefs in the open kitchen as they busily goabout their work. You can also see the cookbooks — a lovely designer touch — at floorlevel just below the kitchen. To the left, you’re staring out the huge glass windows to thestreet scene outside, including the arriving patrons. And best of all, you can watch thestaff approach you with such wonderful dishes as smoked Gerber Farm chicken with wildmushroom risotto, spring leeks and black truffle or loup de mer (sea bass) with babyarugula and shaved mushroom salad with lemon oil.

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: The attentive, confident staff, who love the food asmuch as you will and are eager to watch you love it, can see you salivating from afar asthey approach. If you’re really appreciative, as we were, they might reward you with anamuse bouche of ricotta and parmigiano reggiano-filled ravioli with butter, spring rampsand pecorino toscano. Just to watch your anticipation!(Steven Rosen)

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5757; 3041 Dixie Hwy., Edgewood, 859-331-6767; 9183 Center Point Drive, West Chester,513- 860-4745. Open 7 days. $9-$25.

HabañeroFLAVOR: This homemade salsa haven hasquickly established itself as a Ludlow Avenuestaple. The burritos are excellent, everything isfresh, and few beers on tap make this placegreat for a hearty meal or a quick drink andsnack before a night out. Signature itemsinclude the Mad Max (tilapia, pinto beans, rice,cheddar cheese and cabbage) and the ArroyoHondo (hand-rubbed spiced flank steak, blackbeans, rice, caramelized onions and goatcheese).FLAIR: A bright dining room offers space for big-ger groups or privacy-seeking booth dwellers.Food is made to order and the staff is friendlyand accommodating. Getting ready to open asecond location at Newport on the Levee.358 Ludlow Ave., Clifton, 513-961-6800. Open7 days. $6-$7.

Jalapeño’s RestauranteMexicanoFLAVOR: The downtown store is no longer open,but out in Madeira you can still find excellentquesadillas, enchiladas and burritos, as wellas tasty Mexican beef, chicken, pork andseafood specialties that are among the area’sbest. There are also some tasty vegetarianoptions.?FLAIR: Décor is brightly colored with lots ofauthentic Mexican wall hangings and decora-tions. The servers, many of whom are Spanishspeaking, are professional and well acquaintedwith the menu.7980 Hosbrook Road, Madeira, 513-793-0999. Open 7 days. $7-$25.

Javier’s Mexican RestaurantFLAVOR: Downtown’s favorite burrito stop isabout to become oh so much more. A liquorlicense awaits Javier in Columbus, and the onlything stopping this already excellent Mexicanrestaurant from getting even cooler is the con-struction of a new bar. Soon Javier’s will beopen for dinner and stay open until 2 a.m.when it’s full bar can really be enjoyed. Theseare prime additions to the famous HuevosRancheros — a breakfast burrito stuffed witheggs and chorizo sausage, the Enchiladas ConPollo with Mole Sauce and the “burrito of theday.”FLAIR: Escape from your dreary office to checkout the new digs. The staff is excellent at serv-ing fast lunches with Javier himself manningthe cash register or circulating through the din-ing room to make sure everyone has what theyneed.100 E. Eighth St., Downtown, 513-381-3287.Hours will soon be 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. forlunch; 4-11 p.m. for dinner; and drinks until 2a.m. Monday-Saturday. $1.50-$6.

La MexicanaFLAVOR: Mmm, Tacos Carne Asada. If you’re inthe mood for steak, you can’t go wrong withthis dish, and the tender, marinated pork in theCarnitas Burrito just melts in your mouth. LaMexicana’s spicy guacamole and salsas aremost delicious, as are most dishes at this fineNewport establishment. FLAIR: You might be fluent only in English, butthe Spanish-speaking staff will be kind andpatient with you nonetheless. Consider it aBerlitz class. There are tables for dining in,and carryout is easy.642 Monmouth St., Newport, 859-261-6112.Open 7 days. $2-$7.

NadaFLAVOR: Nada takes diner on an authenticMexican culinary trip with a menu that offers a

variety of small bites, including a variety oftacos, as well as traditional-style stews andinnovative entrées like a citrus-marinatedroasted chicken served with frijoles charros,rice and braised kale. FLAIR: David Falk’s new endeavor has a verychic, serious interior, but it has an impish sideas well. A quick look at the Mexican movie andcomic pop art on the menu covers clues youin. And don’t miss the show in the bathrooms— for the ladies there are telenovelas(Mexican soap operas). Fellas — you getMexican pro wrestlers. Winner of “Best NewRestaurant.”600 Walnut St., Downtown, 513-721-6232.Open Monday-Saturday. $7-$22.

Qdoba Mexican GrillFLAVOR: Serves fast, fresh, quality Mexicanfare. Try the Chicken Mole Burrito (marinatedgrilled chicken flavored with a rich, slightlyspicy mole sauce) or the Poblano PestoBurrito, made with marinated grilled chickenand covered with an excellent poblano pestosauce made of roasted poblano peppers,cilantro, almonds and pine nuts.FLAIR: Décor is faux-minimalist modern, withdesert colors and open space to carry yourfinely crafted burrito to a seat.Multiple locations. Open 7 days. $5-$6.

Taqueria MercadoFLAVOR: The Erlanger location closed back inNovember, so if you want Taqueria Mercado’sofferings such as Tripas (tripe) and Lengua(beef tongue) tacos, you gots ta wait in line inFairfield. Try the Ceviche Tostadas (crispy tor-tillas topped with shredded fish marinated inlime juice and fresh cilantro) or the CarneAsada (lean grilled steak accompanied by avo-cado, lettuce, tomato and pico de gallo) servedwith a stack of warm corn tortillas.FLAIR: No more sneaking to Erlanger for aquick seat, the Fairfield location can be busy,but the burritos are worth the wait. 6507 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield, 513-942-4943.Open 7 days. $5-$11.

NEW AMERICANAllureFLAVOR: Executive Chef Ron Perez has createdan appealing blend of offerings which includestouches of Southern and Asian influences anda heavy emphasis on seasonal and local ingre-dients. The Crispy Fried Free Range Breast ofChicken is a unique option: Two halves ofcrispy, pan-fried chicken served with a waffledrizzled in a sweet-tart pomegranatemolasses.FLAIR: Once settled into one of the curvedleather booth couches, which are soft shadesof mustard yellow or sea green, you’ll foundAllure's affordable wine selection just asattractive. The tables retain an intimate feel,protected by fabrics, and a translucent red cur-tain hangs on the ceiling. 8300 Market Place Lane, Montgomery, 513-891-0120. Open 7 days. $17-$30.

AquaFLAVOR: Stefan Kraus’ seasonal menu is sim-ple fusion. Nothing is overdone, but no detailescapes him. Kraus avoids the heavy saucesof many New American dishes, preferringreductions and fruit and vegetable purees forhis flavor punches. Wednesday nights offerhalf-price sushi from 9-midnight, and with morethan 30 different roles on the sushi menu, it’sworth the late bedtime. FLAIR: At last, New York has come toCincinnati. Owners Han Lin and Jason Drusohave created a minimalist world of sophisticat-ed style that swirls you into a universe of hip-

205 Harrison Avenue | Harrison, OH | 513-202-0200 | www.marketstreetgrille.comIn Historic Downtown Harrison

Join Us For....

Sunday Brunch Buffet10:30am to 2:30pm

Wine Wednesday - All Bottles $15Call Today For Reservations 513-202-0200

$3.00 OFFAny Food Purchase

or $20 or more

With coupon. Not valid withother specials. Expires 8-31-08

sters. Pull up a chair, but don’t get too com-fortable — table-hopping is the event du jour. 1020 Delta Ave., Mount Lookout, 513-919-2782. Open Monday-Saturday. $15-$35.

BocaFLAVOR: Chef David Falk offers a tieredapproach to dining on his Italian-influenced cui-sine. Patrons can indulge in a prix fixe menuon weekends or à la carte offerings during theweek in the main dining room or in a smalltrattoria area or bar. Entrée selections includeFilet Boca, a grilled black angus beef tender-loin with rosemary roasted potatoes, Alaskanking crab and béarnaise and Braised JamisonFarm Lamb Shoulder with sautéed rapini,Tuscan white bean stew and lamb jus. Don’tmiss the Boca Slider — a ground beef tender-loin sandwich with steamed onions andcheese.FLAIR: You’ll want to wrap yourself in Boca’sculinary ballet and never leave. Multiple wait-ers swoop in with impeccable synchronizedtiming to make the service experience asexcellent as the food experience. Winner of“Best Overall Restaurant” (tied with Jean-Robert at Pigall’s).3200 Madison Road, Oakley, 513-542-2022.Open Tuesday-Saturday. A la carte entrées inthe high $20 range; three-course prix fixemenu $52; four-course prix fixe menu $65.

Brown Dog CaféFLAVOR: A different sort of animal, Brown Dogoffers one of the few menus in town thatincludes lots of interesting game selections —look for duck, venison and wild boar. And saveroom for dessert — most are served with ascoop of homemade ice cream, and areserved up in petite portions. The ChocolateBanana Bread with malt ice cream is deca-dently divine.FLAIR: The restaurant’s strip-mall locationbelies its warm and inviting feel. The servicestaff is knowledgeable and well versed in itskitchen lore and its compact wine list, whichalways manages to squeeze in lots of interest-ing choices.5893 Pfeiffer Road, Blue Ash, 513-794-1610.Open Monday-Saturday. $14-$29.

Chalk Food + WineFLAVOR: Lots of local ingredients used to maketasty and creative food and lovely presenta-tions. Slightly quirky menu, but there are treas-ures here — especially in the “start” sectionof appetizers. Calamari comes two ways:grilled on a skewer and minced into a “cala-mari cake” with scallion and celery. Dessertsare brilliant, thanks to talented pastry chefSummer Gemetti.FLAIR: An ideal upscale neighborhood restau-rant, perfect for a stroll to or from the LickingRiverside historic district or the new Ascent.

Chalk is a great place to enjoy a glass of wineand Jean-Robert de Cavel’s cuisine in a casualsetting. 318 Greenup St., Covington, 859-643-1234.Open Monday–Saturday. $6–$28.

Chez NoraFLAVOR: Sunday brunch is a hit at this gather-ing spot, featuring traditional biscuits andgravy, omelets and Eggs Benedict or breakfastwith a twist like a sausage and egg quesadilla.At dinnertime, the signature dish is SteakNora, a filet with crabmeat and béarnaise, butcasual choices abound (try the unusual chick-en and goetta spring roll appetizer). A late-night menu will tide you over until closer toclosing time, available until 12:30 a.m.FLAIR: This is a hot ticket on summer nightswith drinks to follow your dinner on the outdoorrooftop patio and some of the best live Jazz inGreater Cincinnati.530 Main St., Covington, 859-491-8027. Open7 days. $11-$31.

Cricket LoungeFLAVOR: The food in this quiet, laid-back bar inthe central atrium of the Cincinnatian Hotelcomes from the same kitchen as The Palace,one of Cincinnati’s premier fine dining spots.The menu offers a range of soups, salads,sandwiches and pasta as well as a tasty BlackAngus burger and entrées that are way beyondordinary bar food. The bartender claims theyhave the biggest and best martinis in town.Them’s fightin’ words.FLAIR: Mellow and low-key, this isn’t a bustlinghot spot. Tables are spaced out, providing lotsof privacy for conversation.601 Vine St., Downtown, 513-381-3000. Open7 days. $13-$24.

Daveed’s at 934FLAVOR: Chef David Cook serves up delicious,sophisticated fare with artistic flair — foie graspresented as a breakfast plate, oysters as avisit to the beach, venison as a Bengals’ tail-gate party — all served by a professional,friendly staff in a sleek, intimate setting. Whilethe menu can be pricey, you can get a taste ofthe flavor and flair, and keep it reasonable bystopping in for the Cheese Plate — artisanalcheeses with a spicy apple chutney. They’rebest served with Chimay, a soft and creamyBelgian beer brewed by Trappist monks, whomust be enlightened. FLAIR: This trendy, upscale restaurant fits inwell with its high-class Mount Adams neigh-bors. The tempting dishes and excellent wineselection complement one another and theroom’s warm and wonderful collection ofexpressionist art. In the warmer months, out-side dining is a heavenly alternative, but only ifyou like the Blind Lemon’s entertainment dujour next door.934 Hatch St., Mount Adams, 513-721-2665.Open Tuesday-Saturday. $20-$36.

EmbersFood: Embers offers rooms for upscale privateparties up to 48 deep. With a big wine list anda menu that spans steak, seafood and sushi,Embers has become a dining destination formany fancy East Siders. Lighter appetizers likesushi, vegetarian wraps or crabs cakes are anice lead in to more substantive steak andseafood entrées.FLAIR: Décor is muted and elegant, with darkwoods and soft lighting that create anatmosphere of satisfied sophistication. Aroomy bar adjoins the dining room for drink-ing cocktails and chatting. Live music on theweekends.8170 Montgomery Road, Kenwood, 513-984-8090. Open 7 days. $19-$37.

Grand FinaleFLAVOR: You know the Filet Mignon is wrappedin bacon, but did you know the Chicken andSpinish dish comes with prosciutto, parmesanand morel mushroom sauce? Yeah, we didn’tthink so. Lobster Tail and Veal Oscar, Sundaybrunch served the Cheesecake, Cheesecakeand Cheesecake Platter make this place dabomb. FLAIR: Grand Finale has seen more prom nightsand wedding proposals than the inside of arented limousine. With a Victorian atmosphereas decadent as the desserts, the specialtyhere obviously is special occasions. 3 E. Sharon Road, Glendale, 513-771-5925.Open Tuesday-Sunday. $12-$25.

HoneyFLAVOR: Quality seasonal ingredients are show-cased in dishes like a shrimp and scallop ravi-oli glazed with basil and citrus. The Honeyfries are shoestring Yukon gold and sweetpotatoes, crisp and delicious. You’ll also findexcellent desserts like house-made sorbetsand reasonable prices on a good selection ofwines.FLAIR: This chef-owned restaurant is friendly,chic and utterly delectable. A lovely, relaxingspace just inches away from free public park-ing. Open Sunday for brunch.4034 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-541-4300. Open Tuesday-Sunday. $15-$26.

HugoFLAVOR: Chef/owner Sean Daly concentrates onLow Country food, a regional cuisine of SouthCarolina that combines English, French,Spanish, African and Caribbean influences witha “metropolitan twist.” His menu includes tra-ditional recipes such as a small plate ofBurgoo with tomato, white beans and rabbit.Entrées include Daley’s signature Shrimp andGrits with white cheddar and a herb demi glaceand the Hugonut Torte a free-formed torteserved with apples and walnuts and home-made maple ice cream, which was named forthe French Huguenots who brought it to theCharleston area in the late-17th century. FLAIR: Hugo, named for the hurricane thatroared through Charleston, S.C, in 1989,roared into Oakley this past summer bringing atorrent of good food, excellent service andSouthern charm. People seem to come out ofthe woodwork to greet you as you enter a din-ing room that whispers “old money.” The hipset can be found at the bar discussing andsharing their selections of small plates. 3235 Madison Road, Oakley, 513-321-HUGO.Open Tuesday-Saturday. $21-$29.

InCahootsFLAVOR: Chef Nicola Zuefle offers some unusu-al menu items to customers such as SpanishPoppers and Mussels Nicola with P.E.I. mus-sels in aquavit cream and tarragon.FLAIR: InCahoots has broad audience appeal.They also offer a very affordable wine list witha few bottles costing as little at $11 a bottle.9708 Kenwood Road, Blue Ash, 513-891-2500. Open 7 days. $8-22.

MeshFLAVOR: Paul and Pam Sturkey have created anoutstanding menu at Mesh that shows theirpassion for sophisticated but absolutely deli-cious food. Seafood, pasta and meat dishesthat will change with the seasons. Try theWeathervane Bay Scallops with balsamicbrown butter or 19-hour braised pork belly. FLAIR: Very chic, with a seasonal patio, a fewintimate booths and large and small privatedining rooms. The wine cellar is front and cen-ter in a wide glass room, with over 2,000 bot-tles. Service is friendly but polished. Casuallyelegant dress suggested.

YORK STREET CAFÉLOCATION: 738 York St., Newport, 859-261-9675

CUISINE: Eclectic

TABLE: The Four Leaf Clover table is my favorite of the lucky patio tables at York Street.Owner Betsy Cunningham hand-painted these wood tables, each with a special symbol ofgood luck: a horseshoe, cherries, a wishbone and the elusive four-leaf clover.

NICKNAME: The Four-Leaf Clover

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: Well, do ya feel lucky, punk? I do.

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: As the sun drifts across York Street’s cozy patio, a seat at theClover table gives you an opportunity to enjoy Chef Curtis Paul’s soon-to-be announcednew menu or share old faves like the Mediterranean board, dirty hummus or a toastiesampler.

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: The urban wildlife on the patio includes Daisy, thevisiting tabby cat, as well as a mating pair of red-tailed hawks that nest in front of theflower shop. Just so the hawks don’t catch Daisy, peace reigns in the kingdom.(Anne Mitchell)

PHOTO: EMILY MAXWELL

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6200 Muhlhauser Road, West Chester, 513-777-7177. Open Monday–Saturday. $23-$45.

The National Exemplar FLAVOR: An area standby since 1983, TheNational Exemplar serves an exceptionalbreakfast menu of standards, plus crepes, frit-tatas, Belgian waffles and hearty skillets. Bothlight and hearty salads and sandwiches atlunch and dinner, but the dinner menu alsofeatures Ohio-raised Amish chicken, NiemanRanch free-range pork and excellent Angusbeef.FLAIR: Imbued with lots of character and histo-ry, located in the historic Mariemont Inn, con-structed in the mid-1920s as part of theunique Mariemont community (the area wasenvisioned by its founder, Mary Emery, as a“national exemplar” in practical town plan-ning). Good service and a crowd of loyal regu-lars give this the feel of a well-loved club.6880 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, 513-271-2103. Open 7 days. $18-28.

NectarFLAVOR: Owner/chef Julie Francis features con-temporary cuisine, using local and organicproducts whenever possible. The menu, whichchanges with the season and is prepared witha French Mediterranean flair, is creative anddelicious.FLAIR: Dinner Club is one of the coolest thingsabout Nectar. Get on the mailing list to learnabout the monthly five-course dinners thatfocus on one ingredient: goat cheese or garlicor chocolate — always something specialthat’s delicious and interesting. Seating is lim-ited and reservations are required.1000 Delta Ave., Mount Lookout, 513-929-0525. Open Tuesday-Saturday. $17-$26.

Orchids at Palm CourtFLAVOR: Chef Todd Kelly uses the finest ingredi-ents — the tuna comes from Hawaii, the lob-ster from Maine and the micro cilantro travelsfrom the Chef’s Garden in northern Ohio.Try theYellowtail Snapper with spring onions, greengarlic, chayote squash and yellow tomato vinai-grette or the Organic Scottish Salmon withNantucket Bay scallops, Belgian endive, gnoc-chi and a saffron emulsion. Not salivating yet?Let Chef Kelly prepare a tasting menu just foryou. FLAIR: You don’t have to be an architecturalgeek to marvel at the craftsmanship of Orchidsat Palm Court. The dining room’s Art Decodesign features sweeping shapes that reachfor murals on an ornate ceiling. Potted palmsand mauve-colored booths fan out likeseashells to provide a sense of privacy whileyou dine. 35 W. Fifth St., Hilton Netherland Plaza Hotel,Downtown, 513-421-9100. Open Tuesday-Saturday. $32-$43.

The Palace RestaurantFLAVOR: For an oh-my-god culinary experienceyou can’t beat Chef Romy’s Oxtail Ravioli withfoie gras sauce or the Lobster Pastilla, anAfrican dish he picked up from his tenure onthe Ivory coast that consists of a pound of lob-ster, flaky pasty, mushroom and spinach in avanilla beurre blanc sauce. We’d trust him topick and serve us an eight-course dinner anynight of the week. Finish it off with a chocolatesoufflé for two and a cup of French press cof-fee and you might just see God. FLAIR: Chef Romy and John McLean, thePalace’s longtime Maitre d’, will both check in tomake sure your meal is everything you hoped. 602 Vine St., The Cincinnatian Hotel,Downtown, 513-381-3000. Open Monday-Saturday for dinner; 7 days for breakfast. $15-$55.

PalominoFLAVOR: Specializes in fresh fish, pasta androtisserie meats as well as delicious pizza andsalads. The restaurant definitely takes fishseriously; their Cedar Wrapped Salmon andSole Saltimbocca are divine. They also have agreat wine list with daily happy hour specialsand exciting appetizers like Grilled Prawns.FLAIR: The restaurant occupies one of the bestspots downtown. From its second-story perchabove Fountain Square, the city glitters, thefountain fizzes and you can forget yourself inthe bright lights and clinking glasses. An openkitchen lets you see the buzz and energy thatkeep the food coming fast. Winner of “BestAppetizers.”505 Vine St., Downtown, 513-381-1300. Open7 days. $8-$35.

The PhoenixFLAVOR: One of Cincinnati’s culinary jewels.Entrées are outstanding with high-quality ingre-dients inventively combined to create deli-cious, memorable meals. The menu changesseasonally, but you can always count on excel-lent steaks, seafood, pasta and lamb dishes.FLAIR: The Phoenix delivers a superb diningexperience. It has great atmosphere: Locatedin a former gentleman’s club, this impressive1890s building demonstrates a commitmentto service and civility that harks back to anoth-er era. Four of the servers have worked therefor 16 years — incredible in the restaurantworld, where rapid churn is the norm.812 Race St., Downtown, 513-721-8901.Open Wednesday-Saturday. $7-$33.

Polo GrilleFLAVOR: Featuring a focused, fairly priced winelist, Polo Grille also offers a broad menu of tra-ditional favorites influenced by countries wherepolo is popular. Look for Pan Roasted PorkTenderloin, Tandoori Chicken Pizza and SteakChurrasco, a marinated grilled skirt steak,served with garlic chimichurri sauce, tomatosalsa and yucca fries.FLAIR: Service is friendly and efficient. Therestaurant is spacious and airy, and decoratedwith polo memorabilia in tribute to theCincinnati Polo Club, which occupied the sitefor over 20 years.5035 Deerfield Blvd., Mason, 513-701-POLO.Open 7 days. $7-$30.

Quarter BistroFLAVOR: The sangria is a smashing way to startyour evening, perhaps with the popular Tunaand Smoked Scallop Martini appetizer.Although there are lots of elegant entrées,don’t overlook the menu’s sandwiches and piz-zas section that includes the Serious Burger,crab cakes and the Torta Cubana, crispy cia-batta stuffed with roasted pork, ham, chorizo,chihuahua cheese, avocado, lettuce, tomatoand spicy mayo.FLAIR: A see-and-be-seen scene with mirrors onthe walls in case you miss anyone. And beforeyou ask, the bathrooms are next door at themovie theater.6904 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, 513-271-5400. Open 7 days. $16-$35.

SlimsFLAVOR: It’s the Chez Panisse of the Midwest,big on flavor with the fresh, seasonal andoften organic produce and meats. Food is con-sistently interesting and dependably good —no long descriptive or a kitchen sink of exoticingredients, just simple and well prepared.Menu changes frequently, and the Sundaybrunch/lunch is a must. FLAIR: Communal dining at its finest. The threerooms in this architecturally interesting spaceoffer long, sturdy, wooden tables that seat asmany as 10 to 12.

Madeira | 7022 Miami Ave513 272 6900

Hyde Park | 3514 Erie Ave513 321 5533

Voted Best Thai - CityBeat '08 Staff Picks2000 Voted Best Thai Restaurant

- The Cincinnati Enquirer

Voted Best Thai - CityBeat '08 Staff Picks2000 Voted Best Thai Restaurant

- The Cincinnati Enquirer

JANE PHILLIPSowner

designer cutscolor specialist

513.241.4447332 W 4th Street

Downtown Cincinnatiwww.avanti-hairsalon.com

4046 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-681-6500. Open Thursday-Sunday. Prix fixe menu$40; á la carte $18-$22.

Teller’s of Hyde ParkFLAVOR: Serves up an eclectic mix of contem-porary American cuisine. Appetizers includethe popular Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls (stuffedwith chicken, zucchini, pepperoni and mozzarel-la) to salads, pastas, pizzas and sandwichesas well as substantive fare like steaks andEggplant Cannelloni. Fifty bottled and 30draught beers, 23 wines by the glass and acolorful martini menu make this a great placeto drink and eat.FLAIR: A perennial favorite with the Hyde Parkset, Teller’s is a place to see and be seen.Located in a former bank building, décor is his-toric-contemporary with big columns, 35-footceilings and a skylight running the length ofthe building.2710 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-321-4721.Open 7 days. $10-$30.

Tink’sFLAVOR: Bistro cuisine with creative twists likeCrab Cakes perched atop a sesame noodlesalad spiked with Thai chili sauce or fabulousShrimp and Grits with boursin and white ched-dar cheeses, accented by smoky, peppery Tasoham. Smoked Salmon Tartar is prettily present-ed in layers with potato and apple pancakes.Simple, but sophisticated.FLAIR: Airy space with broad windows andwooden floors gives Tink’s a gallery feel.

Upscale neighborhood crowd, enjoying goodwine, lovely food and quiet conversation.3410 Telford Ave., Clifton, 513-961-6500.Open 7 days. $16-22.

20 Mile HouseFLAVOR: Owner Gerry Geisen and manager GeneFeagans focus on the kind of simple, rib-stick-ing food that would probably taste pretty goodafter a long, dusty, bumpy stagecoach ride.FLAIR: The 20 Mile House has gone through afew transitions since its birth in 1822. In theold days it functioned as a stagecoach stopand tavern as well as a post office for TwentyMile Stand, the post-town that was 20 milesnorth of Cincinnati. This incarnation beckonsits history with tables, covered in burlap andglass that hold 1800s news clippings fromwhat was then called the Cincinnati WeeklyEnquirer, a player piano in the foyer, and achandelier that comes straight out of aspaghetti western. 3159 Montgomery Road, Deerfield Twp., 513-677-3900. Open Monday-Saturday. $7-$23.

The Vineyard Café and Wine RoomFLAVOR: The Vineyard strives to bring its cus-tomers something familiar yet different. Take,for instance, the ordinary chicken breast: AtThe Vineyard it becomes Artichoke-CrustedChicken, pounded out chicken breast withpureed artichokes, parmigiano-reggiano andpanko bread crumbs, flash-fried and finishedwith roasted Yukon potatoes, shallots and

lemon beurre blanc. FLAIR: Wine and food pairings are what TheVineyard is all about. The candlelit dining roomis often filled with couples sharing a bottleover dinner or tables of people conducting aprivate little tasting of their own. The servicestaff is wine savvy and polite. The Wine Room,two doors up, is one of those little secretgems you might miss if we didn’t tell you. 2653 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-871-6167.Open 7 days. $16-$30.

Vitor’s BistroFLAVOR: In Chef Vitor Abreu’s words, “California-inspired cuisine with European and Orientalinfusions.” The gourmet dinner is now offeredThursday-Sunday, instead of Wednesday nightonly and features specials like Black ForestFilet with black cherries, black peppercornbacon and cherry brandy cognac. The lunchmenu offers wraps with fresh vegetables andgrilled meats, plus seasonal salads such asfield greens with strawberries, blueberries andhoneydew melon tossed in raspberry cham-pagne vinaigrette. And don’t forget to wake upearly for their award-winning French toast.FLAIR: An intimate little bistro with tableclothsand linens is plenty of flair for a place on theWest Side.3156 Harrison Ave., Westwood, 886-455-1020. Open Wednesday-Sunday. $5-$20.

Waterfront/South Beach GrillFLAVOR: At this Jeff Ruby restaurant, the steakshave to share the stage with live Maine lob-sters, a sushi bar and seafood entrées such asthe Coconut-Crusted Salmon and Roasted SeaBass. Still, the Collingsworth Steak is one ofthe most popular choices: 12-ounce filetmignon topped with 2 ounces of Alaskan KingCrab, a wild mushroom Bordelaise sauce, freshsteamed asparagus and Béarnaise sauce.FLAIR: Fashionable dining on the river, whereyou can stop by the bar that’s topped by awhite piano reminiscent of a swanky Miami din-ner club, a never-ending parade of leggywomen and men with big cigars.14 Pete Rose Pier, Covington, 859-581-1414.Open Monday-Saturday. $18-$42.

PIZZAAdriatico’s New York Style PizzaFLAVOR: The Bearcat pizza comes in a box thatwill not fit in the front seat of your car.Adriatico’s makes their sauce and garlic-ladendough in-store daily, with an inherent spicinessand delicious original flavor. The menu alsooffers calzones, subs and salads, and thiscarry-out/delivery specialist is open late. FLAIR: Late-night hours (1:30 a.m. during theweek, 2:30 a.m. weekends, 12:30 a.m.Sundays) make this place a savior for UC stu-dents suffering through late-night study ses-sions, or for those who are up late and notstudying. Winner of “Best Pizza (Non-Chain).”3205 Jefferson Ave., Clifton, 513-281-4344.Open 7 days. $6-$18.

Dewey’s PizzaFLAVOR: Fancy gourmet pizzas and excellentservice make Dewey’s a pleasure to eat pizza.Specialty pizzas, colorful salads and fine beerson tap also help. The unusual toppings arealso cause for excitement from Amish Chickento Black Bean Corn Salsa. FLAIR: A welcoming dining room with clean, col-orful tables and geometrical wall designs thatlook like art. There’s also a glass windowwhere you can spy on the folks tossing andcreating your pizza. Winner of “Best Pizza(Chain)” and “Best Salads.”Multiple locations. Open 7 days. $7-$20.

Indigo Casual Gourmet CaféFLAVOR: This vegetarian-friendly spot offerspizza, pastas, salads and sandwiches, andadds a new item each month to spice thingsup. The Italian White Pizza on Whole WheatCrust (garlic shallot oil, mushrooms, spinach,ricotta, feta and mozzarella) will melt in yourmouth. The Down Home Chicken Calzone (withpeas, carrots, onions, garlic mashed potatoesand gravy) is comfort food extraordinaire.FLAIR: A subtly hippie vibe gives this East Sidecafe a cheerful feel, and the dining roomallows patrons a glimpse into the kitchen astheir entrées are prepared. There’s also ashaded patio area for those not-so-humidCincinnati summer evenings.2637 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-321-9952;2053 Dixie Hwy., Fort Mitchell, 859-331-4339.Open 7 days. $8-$15.

Lucy Blue FLAVOR: This place is all about focus. It’s openlimited hours (late at night and during lunch),and all it serves is pizza. The pizza is good,with chewy dough, full-flavored sauce and plen-ty of cheese. During lunch, there’s soup, salad,soda and as many slices as you can eat foronly $6.FLAIR: There’s something vaguely illicit aboutbuying food out of a little opening in the sideof a building at 2:30 a.m. The help is cheery,friendly and seemingly amused by the ever-changing nocturnal spectacle.1128 Walnut St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-241-8350; 3200 Linwood Ave., Mount Lookout,513-321-2540; 611 Main St., Covington, 859-581-3555. Open 7 Days. $12-$15.

Pomodori’s PizzaFLAVOR: Wood-fired pizzas take a little longer tobake, but dang are they worth it. Honey-tast-ing, flakey crust and scrumptious sandwichesalong with pastas and salads make this morethan a sit-down pizza joint. Perfect for datesand those who enjoy real garlic on their garlicbread. FLAIR: Comfortable and welcoming with a warmwood-burning fireplace and plenty of windowseating to people watch if the date goes bad. 121 W. McMillan Ave., Clifton Heights, 513-861-0080; 7880 Remington Road,Montgomery, 513-794-0080. Open 7 days. $9-$13.

Sorrento’s PizzaFLAVOR: The real taste of Italian American fareis here. If you moved to Cincy from a placewith good pizza and have been wondering howpeople survive here, then you haven’t been toSorrento’s for a fabulous, classic Enrico.Homemade sausage, homemade dough, eventhe bread is baked in their oven every day. FLAIR: Sorrento’s Pizzeria has been a proudNorwood landmark since 1956, when the deLucas first opened their doors. Throughtragedies and triumphs, the family traditioncontinues. Private party room, karaoke and theSports Hall of Fame add to the fun.5143 Montgomery Road, Norwood, 513-531-5070. Open 7 days. $4-$22.

RUSSIANRed Square Restaurant & DeliFLAVOR: Authentic Russian fare. Salads likearabat, with cabbage, carrots, dill, and roastednuts; gribnoy with mushrooms and garlic;borscht; cabbage rolls; exotic sausages likeevreickaia, moskovskoe and teli salami; andstroganoff. The large perogis, which resemblea 12-inch, double-crust pizza, come stuffedwith your choice of potatoes, cheese, groundbeef or cabbage.FLAIR: Tsiala Yusupov cooks and serves the

HATHAWAY’SLOCATION: 441 Vine St. in the Carew Tower Arcade, Downtown, 513-621-1332

CUISINE: All-American diner fare for breakfast and lunch

TABLE: The best seat in the house is the end seat of the back counter, a spinnable stoolat the Formica counter top — perfect for a party of one.

NICKNAME: The Vantage Point

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: It offers the best view in the house. You can see the din-ers, the cooks on the line, the great old photos of Cincinnati and the wonderful waitress-es who’ve been here for years.

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: Perched here, enjoying a goetta omelette, hash browns, an Englishmuffin and maybe even a chocolate shake, you can get in a lively conversation with yourfellow diners or just sit and listen to some mellow Nat King Cole.

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: The staff love it because their regulars sit there.(Anne Mitchell)

PHOTO: EMILY MAXWELL

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specialties of her Russian homeland in thisnondescript deli just of Reading Road. In thedining room, Russian nesting dolls and modelships provide cultural touchstones, but it’s theenticing aromas emanating from the kitchenthat herald a special meal to come.9104 Cox Road, West Chester, 513-755-8942.Open 7 days. $6-$13.

SANDWICHESdeliseven20FLAVOR: Michelle Lightfoot re-creates her deli-cious gourmet lunch fare in her own newrestaurant. Poppies regulars will be glad tohear the Ring Dang Doo lives on, as do thoseaddictive homemade chips. FLAIR: Starbucks ain’t got nothing on delisev-en20. The friendly staff remembers your nameand asks how the kids are before sending youon your way to munch on your lunch in theserene foyer in Sawyer Point Building. Checkout the new spring catering menu — good,healthy food can be yours for just 24-hoursnotice and a little cash. Winner of “Best Deli,”“Best Business Lunch” and “BestWaitstaff/Service.”720 E. Pete Rose Way, Downtown, 513-381-3720. Open Monday-Friday. $4-$8.

FreshFLAVOR: The name says it all. Choices includecustom salads, hot and cold sandwiches,giant, stuffed baked potatoes and interestingsides like homemade guacamole with organicblue chips. Sandwiches include the Turkey &Brie on Honey Oat with all natural turkey, brie,field greens, cucumbers and tomatoes and theVeggie & Hummus with cucumbers, red onions,tomatoes, green peppers and shredded car-rots. FLAIR: This fast-food alternative works withlocal businesses and suppliers, and featuresthe hardest-working staff in the city. They dotheir best to make your self-service lunchmemorable, offering everything from someoneopening the door when you arrive to deliveringyour meal to the table.36 E. Fourth St., Downtown, 513-421-1020.Open Monday-Friday. $4-$8.

IngredientsFLAVOR: Ingredients offers casual grab-and-gofare including salads, sandwiches, panini andbrick-oven pizzas like the Wild Mushroom Pizzaor Roast Beef and Gorgonzola Sandwich withcaramelized onions and roasted tomato. Saladfixings are innovative including beets, roastedeggplant and hearts of palm. You can makeyour own, going along with their catch phrase:“Some assembly required,” or choose fromone of their signatures. Good choices are theGrilled Chicken Salad with proscuitto, Maytagblue cheese, spiced Bosc pears, yellow toma-toes and walnuts or the Roasted Vegetablesalad.FLAIR: Ordering is not for the meek of heart —it’s a scene straight from Wall Street, but onceyou settle in to one of the cozy chairs or sidleup to the counter and plug in your laptop, you’llbe humming along.21 E. Fifth St., The Westin Hotel, Downtown,513-852-2740. Open 7 days. $6.50-$8.

Izzy’sFLAVOR: It’s all about the beef at Izzy’s —corned beef and Reubens, of course, but lotsof new choices like the Izzy’s Mex withJalepeno’s. Aye caramba? Oy vey! For thosewho know their beef, Izzy’s is lean and a littleon the dry side, but the potato pancake makesup for it with moist, greasy goodness. And veg-etarians, fear not, Izzy’s offers up a deliciousVeggie Ruben.

FLAIR: A great man once defined Judaism as“3,000 years of beautiful tradition, fromMoses to Sandy Koufax.” Somewhere in thatpantheon falls Cincinnati’s own Izzy Kadetz, theman and the legend, and his family still ownsand operates the deli that bears his name. 800 Elm St., Downtown, 513-721-4241 andother locations. Open Monday-Saturday. $6-$9.

Le’sFLAVOR: This diminutive deli is known for itsscrumptious ham and turkey sandwiches withall the fixins as well as the more exotic spicyVietnamese Pork sandwich. From lo mein tolasagna, you’re always sure to find somethingdifferent depending on the day.FLAIR: Hiding inside the Main Public Library,this tiny shop does big business during theweek. It mostly caters to library patrons andbookworms, but some of downtown’s workingclass has discovered the gem. It’s the perfectstop for a quick lunch on the go or a moreleisurely lunch with a good book in the library’scourtyard.800 Vine St., Downtown, 513-665-3339. OpenMonday-Saturday. $1-$5.

MeltFLAVOR: Healthy and gourmet all at once? Bestill my beating heart! Perk up those whole-some taste buds with a Yeehaw BBQ sandwichwith seitan, red onion, smoked mozzarella,tomato, banana peppers and BBQ sauce orthe Joan of Arc with roast beef, red peppers,garlic, blue cheese, caramelized onion and pro-volone. FLAIR: Melt is dedicated to good-for-you ingredi-ents serving various seitan and tofu sandwich-es and lots of vegan options. The restaurant isalso committed to local businesses — theyhave coffee from their neighbor SidewinderCoffee and Tea, desserts from their otherneighbor Take the Cake and bread fromShadeau. Winner of “Best Sandwiches” and“Best Vegetarian.”4165 Hamilton Ave., Northside, 513-681-6358. Open 7 days. $4.50-$6.95.

New York NY Fresh DeliFLAVOR: Serves up premium quality cold cutsup to left coast standards. The restaurant, anupscale version of the Subway concept, offersa variety of gourmet salads and sandwiches,including panini, New York-style subs (6, 12and 24 inches) and wraps including the CubanPanini made with layers of roast pork, ham andpickles and served with provolone after beingpressed and heated between slices of crustywhite bread.FLAIR: In fine Gotham fashion, NY Fresh Delinames it subs for glamorous landmarks suchas Soho (turkey salami and provolone cheese)and the Statue of Liberty (the Lady Liberty subwith chicken breast, bacon and havarticheese).255 E. Fifth St., Downtown, 513-721-3354.Open Monday-Friday. $3.35-$7.25.

Potbelly Sandwich WorksFLAVOR: Not your average brown-bagged sand-wich. Potbelly sandwich choices range fromturkey breast with Swiss cheese to what theycall A Wreck: salami, roast beef, turkey andham with Swiss cheese. To accompany themade-to-order sandwiches, they have shakes,malts and smoothies to help tame the post-lunch sweet tooth. Soups and chili are alsoavailable as sides. For a group lunch, try a BoxO’ Sandwiches and each hungry mouth gets asandwich, chips and a chocolate chip cookie.FLAIR: This Chicago-based chain is startingdown the path Friday’s blazed before thatorganization became obsessed with “flair.” Theinteriors are a burst of energy and imagination,from the pressed tin ceilings to the “music

Lunch - Monday - Friday 11:00 - 2:30Dinner - Monday - Thursday 5:00 - 9:00

Friday and Saturday 5:00 - 10:00

Reservations Accepted (513) 771-0022 11525 Chester Road

Sharonville OH 45246

MAURY’S TINY COVELOCATION: 3908 Harrison Ave., Cheviot, 513-662-2683

CUISINE: Traditional steakhouse fare

TABLE: The booths below the collection of bull figurines.

NICKNAME: The Bull Booths

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: What could be better (or more ironic) than eating a full slab of ribsor a big juicy steak under a collection of fierce, horned mammals? On the other hand, prettymuch any of tables in this labyrinthine old-school West Side joint holds their own unique traits.

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: The bulls; the red vinyl booths; the red plaid curtains that obscure but don’tmute those in the booth next to you (I could swear that was Steve Chabot’s voice interrupting mydinner); the shiny table top that’s played host to thousands of other Westsiders over the years;the low-slung drop ceiling that for some reason reminds me of place where Sinatra might havehung back in the day; and the little baskets with various packaged crackers and breads.

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: The staff loves this table because it can fit four people withbig appetites, which theoretically means big tips.(Jason Gargano)

PHOTO: RAVEN BULL

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porch” from which guitarists occasionally serenade customers.Multiple Locations. Open 7 days. $4-$5.

SEAFOODBonefish GrillFLAVOR: Hyde Park might be nowhere near the sea, but BonefishGrill serves up the ahi tuna, crab cakes and grilled swordfishlike an ocean-side café. To make up for the fresh ocean breeze,enjoy a slice of key lime pie. FLAIR: Somewhat hidden in a crowded strip mall, Bonefishswings between sit-down diner and hot spot. The bar and high-top tables are good for after-work drinks and the fancy lowertables in the dining room will impress a date. 2737 Madison Road, Hyde Park, 513-321-5222; 588 ButtermilkPike, Crescent Springs, 859-426-8666. Open 7 days. $11-$35.

Chart HouseFLAVOR: This riverside restaurant serves steak and seafoodspanning New England, Caribbean and Southern influences.Start with New England clam chowder, shrimp cocktail or searedahi. Signature entrées include macadamia-encrusted mahi mahi,snapper “Hemingway” and slow-roasted prime rib.FLAIR: Massive windows offering a panoramic view of the bridgesstraddling the Ohio give this dining room an upscale feel. Evenbetter is the view from the patio. 405 Riverboat Row, Newport, 859-261-0300. Open 7 days. $12-$40.

Four Seasons Boatyard Grill & Pirates GroveFLAVOR: A recent menu change offers a more affordable dinnerwith the same high-quality dishes. Four Seasons still offersfresh seafood with all types of fish, shrimp items and pastas,but it didn’t forget about its great salmon, prime rib, pork chopsand chicken. Unique appetizers and an expanded sandwichmenu. More casual, less expensive. FLAIR: The accommodations are snug and private, with portholesdelivering modest vistas of the yachts docked outside. An open-air dining area and live music from an array of local bands addanother dimension. 4609 Kellogg Ave., Columbia-Tusculum, 513-871-1820. Open 7days. $9-$20.

McCormick & Schmick’sFLAVOR: This national chain keeps it real across the street fromFountain Square. The oyster sampler offers a dozen fresh andflavorful oysters on the half-shell to slide down yo throat. FLAIR: The menus are printed on paper twice daily to ensure din-ers are offered the freshest seafood options available inCincinnati. The dark wood interior makes business folks feelcomfortable.21 E. Fifth St., Downtown, 513-721-9339. Open 7 days. $10-$20.

Mitchell’s Fish MarketFLAVOR: You know you want the Sea Bass Shanghai Style withginger and scallions. Mitchell’s keeps the fish fresh and yourfavorite presentation in mind. FLAIR: Perfect for a casual meal after a movie or date-style pre-movie eats. You can’t beat the view or the quiet ambiance.Winner of “Best Seafood.”Newport on the Levee, Newport, 859-291-7454; 9456Waterfront Drive, West Chester, 513-779-5292. Open 7 days.$14-$29.

Mount Adams Fish HouseFLAVOR: When a restaurant has a secret menu item, you knowit’s good. The lobster stuffed with rock shrimp, scallops andcrab is devoured so quickly that it’s not even on the menu —they’ll let you know if it’s available. Fresh fish and the highestsushi grade offerings make this the place to be for Cincinnati’sseafood lovers. FLAIR: A quiet, intimate date spot. Casual with excellent service.940 Pavilion St., Mount Adams, 513-421-3250. Open 7 days.$18-$38.

Washington Platform Saloon & RestaurantFLAVOR: Perhaps best known for the recently concluded OysterFestival that takes place every year, this place has more special-ties coming: Next up is the May 16 Clam Bake. For $24.95enjoy all-you-can-eat clams, crawfish, shrimp, mussels, corn onthe cob and baby red potatoes. Regularly serves fish, steak,pasta and Cajun-style entrées such as Grilled Salmon topped

with Lobster Butter and the Creole Combo (Cajun grilled chickenwith Southern fried oysters). FLAIR: The bar area offers a relaxed, old-school saloon atmos-phere while the Canal Room provides a more fashionable experi-ence with white linens and glass-topped tables.Court and Elm streets, Downtown, 513-421-0110. OpenMonday-Saturday. $13-$20.

SENEGALESETerangaFLAVOR: Teranga doesn’t tone down its offering of traditionalSenegalese and West African dishes to the Cincinnati palate.Order the grilled fish and you’ll see what we mean; out comesan entire tilapia (head, tail, skin, bones and all) swimming in aspicy sauce seasoned with hot and black pepper and Dijon mus-tard and thick with onions.FLAIR: Located in a strip mall, the ambiance is far from fancy.Lighting is fluorescent and there are just a few bits of art to pro-vide a flavor of Africa. The clientele trends toward French-speak-ing West Africans who seem genuinely happy to have adventur-ous Cincinnatians dining in their midst.8438 Vine St., Hartwell, 513-821-1300. Open 7 days. $6-$10.

SOUL FOODA Taste of Julia’sFLAVOR: Julia Pitts, owner of A Taste of Julia’s, loves cooking andloves people. You can taste her passion in her sultry collardgreens, her crispy Southern fried chicken and, of course, whilesipping her Julia’s Famous Tea Punch. Other popular dishes arefried tilapia with decadent sweet potato casserole and porkchops with creamy macaroni and cheese. Don’t forget the cornbread.FLAIR: This caterer-turned-restaurant owner has a passion for pro-viding busy families and people on the go with home-cooked mealsas an alternative to fast food. Ain’t nothing better than that.6025 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield, 513-942-1800. Open Wednesday-Sunday. $8.50-$10.

SOUTH AMERICANArgentine Bean FLAVOR: The Bean’s new chef has cooked for celebrities likeDemi and Bruce and Arnold and Maria — and now, you and me.The new menu for spring is lighter, including mozzarella capreseand curried chicken salad, and very creative. Try the shrimp withavocado salsa — it’s served on the fork — or the crab tower.Delicious pastries for dessert. FLAIR: Lunch is ladylike, but dinner gets lively with great wineselections, half price on Mondays and Wednesdays. Live musicmost nights, great salsa lessons and a gypsy Latin Jazz combo.Argentine Bean, the highlight of Crestview Town Center, is tuckedaway near the northeast corner of Dillards. 2875 Towne Center Blvd., Crestview Hills, 859-426-1042. Open7 days. $7-$13.

Sabor Peruano FLAVOR: Peru has one of the world’s most diverse cuisines, with fla-vors from the high mountains of the Andes, all the way down to thecoast. Try Bisteck a la Pobre, steak with rice, fries, fried banana andegg; green stew beef with cassava and rice; or seafood ceviche. FLAIR: Authentic, no-frills ethnic dining offering strange and unfa-miliar dishes, with no pandering to the unadventurous. 7105 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield, 513-860-0349. Open 7 days. $4-$13.

Seny Tapas Bar FLAVOR: The Manhattan version of a Barcelona tapas bar in EastWalnut Hills. Offering both tapas tradicional and tapas moder-nas (breaking from tradition), this Spanish Basque cuisine takessome risks. Loaded with fresh vegetables and seafood, all dish-es are created with the philosophy that “every ingredient in adish should be given equal gastronomic value.” It shows. Withdishes full of hot Spanish passion — paprika, red pepper, thymeand saffron — you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.FLAIR: The dimly lit, smoke-and-mirrors, red and black Spanish-themed décor creates the illusion of Barcelona nightlife. Theenormous Paella plate for two — with light saffron and only thefreshest ingredients, including jumbo shrimp — is fit for aSpanish family. Winner of “Best Tapas.”1544 Madison Road, Walnut Hills, 513-221-SENY. Open Monday-Saturday. $5-$45.

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STEAKHOUSESAnthony’s Cigar Bar & GrilleFLAVOR: With the smoking ban in place, Anthony’s has shiftedfocus to serving Southern Italian dishes — but fear not, guys,you can still enjoy cigars on the outdoor patio. This is a greatplace to dig into a hearty steak and wash it down with a bottleof red wine, maybe a bold Monte Antico Toscano from Italy. Forthe wives and girlfriends, Anthony’s also happens to offer anambitious menu with ingredients like wild mushroom ragout,baby bok choy, cherry-cola barbecue sauce and a homemademarinara sauce from the owner’s grandparents’ recipe.FLAIR: With its clubby atmosphere and multiple TVs, this is agreat place to kick back and argue about the game. If that’s notyour bag, at least you can do some shopping in the nearbyTarget.7641 Voice of America Center Drive, West Chester, 513-779-3455. Open 7 days. $10-$30.

Carlo and JohnnyFLAVOR: The emphasis at this “1930s gangster steakhouse” ison big dry-aged steaks, but the menu also presents dry-agedlamb chops, wood-grilled Atlantic salmon and more. After say, abone-in filet or a large steak for two, don’t forget dessert —they’re as decadent as everything else in the place and rangefrom Jeff Ruby’s homemade signature cheesecake to the rich,dense Chocolate Tower.FLAIR: The three separate dining rooms — the Emerald, the Ivoryand the Grill — are great places to see local celebs andCincinnati movers and shakers.9769 Montgomery Road, Montgomery, 513-936-8600. OpenMonday-Saturday. $21-$47.

The CelestialFLAVOR: The recently re-vamped Celestial is a steak-lover’sdream, serving hand-cut slabs of beef like the Cowboy, an 18-ounce bone-in ribeye and the 28-ounce hand-selected bone-inPorterhouse. Not in a steak mood? Try the seafood additions orthe half or full Rack of Lamb. Many gourmet side accompani-ments are also available from black truffle butter to rock shrimpscampi.FLAIR: The polished oak and brass dining room will throw youinto a world where the women arrive in furs and the men drinkGrey Goose martinis shaken hard with crystal on top in aHollywood glass. This is the quintessential romantic spot, witheverything from elegant service to a breathtaking view of theCincinnati skyline.1071 Celestial St., Mount Adams, 513-241-4455. Open 7 days.$19-$54.

Fuji Steak House FLAVOR: Hibachi grilling from sea and shore, including lobster,scallops, strip steak, filets and traditional Japanese selections.Try vegetable and seafood tempura, bento boxes with barbecuedeel, teriyaki beef or chicken katsu, or have a big bowl of udonnoodle soup to cure the winter’s chills. Lunches are served withsoup and white rice, and dinner includes these along with asalad.FLAIR: Opened in 2006, Fuji Steak House is near the Staplesacross from Florence Mall. The hibachi grill is food and enter-tainment in one, with flamboyant chefs and lots of flames.7687 Mall Road, Florence, 859-746-8180. Open 7 days. $8-$50.

Jag’s Steak and Seafood FLAVOR: The 8-ounce Kobe filet, served with au gratin potatoesand sautéed spinach, is the culinary equivalent to velvet. Twofilet favorites are the Black Truffle Filet and the 10-ounce BigOscar topped with shrimp, lobster and king crab, finished with alobster Hollandaise sauce. Jag’s also offers a raw bar andentrées such as Chilean Sea Bass and Alaskan King Crab Legsas well as several vegetarian choices.FLAIR: With six individualized dining rooms, you’re likely to findone that fits your mood du jour. Try the Library Room whenyou’re feeling all masculine and buff — you’ll fit right in with thefloor-to-ceiling mahogany paneling, built-in bookcases and bur-gundy chairs.5980 West Chester Blvd., West Chester, 513-860-5353. OpenMonday-Saturday. $25-$68.

Jeff Ruby’sFLAVOR: It’s all about the meat at this upscale downtown steak-house, which proudly claims to be the only steakhouse in theMidwest that dry-ages its own beef on the premises. Other

choices include the rack of lamb, wood-grilled salmon and BeerCan Chicken. With a brand-new chef on board, watch for a newmenu in late May or early June.FLAIR: Yep, Jeff Ruby certainly gets his flair on. This is definitelya place to see and be seen. The upscale clientele seems to bedry-aging as well as or better than the beef.700 Walnut St., Downtown, 513-784-1200. Open Monday-Saturday. $20-$43.

Jimmy D’sFLAVOR: A thoroughly respectable steakhouse through andthrough, it offers high-quality cuts of standbys like filet mignonand New York strip as well as other options like chicken andseafood. Jimmy D’s offers both quality and a relatively goodvalue, as prices for both entrées and wines are reasonable.Desserts are big and rich.FLAIR: The atmosphere in the smallish dining room is simple yetupscale. Service is friendly and enthusiastic; a great place for aspecial occasion.7791 Cooper Road, Montgomery, 513-984-2914. Open Monday-Saturday. $20-$36.

Maury’s Tiny CoveFLAVOR: Maury’s is a casual steakhouse, offering traditionalsteakhouse fare, such as the filet or ribs. The seafood menuranges from salmon, shrimp and lobster to wonderful fried fishentrées like the Icelandic cod. In case you can’t decide, try thesurf and turf options. Maury’s Tiny Cove is packed full of flavor-ful dishes.FLAIR: A staple since 1949, this is a great place for eating outon the often fine-dining-deprived West Side. The low-slung ceil-ings and aged décor lend an old-school, clubby feel. The wait-staff is unpretentious and always helpful.3908 Harrison Ave., Cheviot, 513-662-2683. Open Monday-Saturday, Sundays seasonally. $18-$37.

Morton’s — The SteakhouseFLAVOR: Known for its high-quality beef, elegant service and over-sized martinis, Morton’s is steakhouse dining at its finest.Where else can you experience a drive-by cart laden with cuts ofraw meat, seafood and vegetables so you can view your meal-to-be in the raw? There are also excellent salads, seafood and anice selection of vegetable side dishes for two (or more). Thehappy-hour food specials in the new bar area are a coup forthose on a budget.FLAIR: The new location’s atmosphere is still steakhouse deluxe,with lots of dark woods and tuxedo-clad waiters. In addition toyour appetite, better bring your wallet.441 Vine St., Downtown, 513-621-3111. Open 7 days. $23-$45.

The PrecinctFLAVOR: You can always rely on a Jeff Ruby restaurant for a big,rare steak and platters of seafood. The Precinct, the first in along line of Ruby steakhouses, has been doing it since 1981.Next time skip the Steak Collinsworth and Steak Munoz — tryHussey’s Table, “in homage to Jimmy Hussey, the king of table-side cooks,” which includes Cajun Shrimp, Shrimp and CrabSaute or Hussey’s Famous Fettuccine for Two. Or try the newReds players’ menu items such as the Dusty Baker or theBronson Arroyo.FLAIR: The Precinct is a great place to people watch. Play spotthe local celebrity over drinks in the bar before dinner. Winner of“Best Steaks.”311 Delta Ave., Columbia-Tusculum, 513-321-5454. Open 7days. $26-$46.

RedFLAVOR: Start your meal with mussels mariniere or exquisite beefcarpaccio, garnished with the wonderful tempura onion petals,and then try a steak with a side of pesto mashed potatoes.They’re the best you’ve ever eaten.FLAIR: On the pricey side, this is a see-and-be-seen bistro in front,cozy date banquettes in back and eponymous Red touchesthroughout. Very friendly service, excellent steaks and seafood.2724 Erie Ave., Hyde Park, 513-871-3200. Open 7 days. $8-$65.

Reserve Restaurant and Piano BarFLAVOR: Great weeknight steak place. Portion sizes are healthyand entrées include something for the non-steak eater as wellsuch as the Spicy Diablo pasta with penne pasta, onions, redand green peppers with a spicy tomato cream and vegetarianflatbread with fresh spinach, artichokes, olives, tomatoes andasiago cheese.

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Meier’sTASTE THE TRADITION

6955 Plainfield Rd • Silverton

513.891.2914

Located just off I-71 at Exit 12-Montgomery Rd

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FLAIR: It works for an adult evening — com-plete with cocktails and a jazz piano player —or a family outing with a kid’s menu thatincludes Fried Mac and Cheese, a Pasta Bowlor a Kid Pizza.Newport on the Levee, Newport, 859-431-7373. Open 7 days. $9-$26.

Tropicana FLAVOR: Try the “Tapa-tizer” menu, a mix oftapas-style appetizers, including duck confittacos, manchego ravioli and lobster and toast-ed corn fritters. These new items, and somechanges to entrées, are part of an effort toadd South American and Mediterranean flavorsto the outstanding steaks and standards atTropicana. Try Lobster Risotto with butternutsquash, pancetta and sage and a WhiteMarble Pork Chop with pear fennel puree andcrispy pork belly. Wine aficionados shouldcome on Tuesdays when bottles go for halfprice.FLAIR: A celebrity-studded Jeff Ruby extravagan-za, but as with the other Ruby restaurants,service is impeccable and no detail is over-looked. There’s a lot of dedication, skill andprofessionalism that go into making consis-tently high quality look easy.Newport on the Levee, Newport. 859-491-8900. Open Monday-Saturday. $15-$46.

TAKEOUT/SPECIALTYAlabama Fish BarFLAVOR: The motto at this Over-the-Rhine insti-tution is “Eat Fresh Fish Live Longer.” We won-der if this still holds true when the fish is gob-bed with thick batter, deep-fried and laid over abed of fries. Aw, who cares?FLAIR: Take-out only, and barely enough roomfor that. Service is brisk and efficient. You’ll beamazed at how quickly they swaddle your orderwith wax paper, wrap it in a bag and send youon your way. 1601 Race St., Over-the-Rhine, 513-241-2255.Open Monday-Saturday. $7-$8.

The BonbonerieFLAVOR: The Bonbonerie is best known for itsdelicious pastries and cakes, but it also offersup lunch and tea for a relaxing afternoon. Afterwanting to “create a space where the quaintand archaic practice of tea taking could gainnew life,” they created a Tearoom with lunchesranging from the childhood favorite PeanutButter and Jelly to the Quiche du jour madefresh in house. There are many tea options tohelp you escape from the chaos of daily life,without having to put on your white gloves.FLAIR: Restaurant is divided into the tearoom,which serves the sit-down lunches and snacks,and a bakery that caters mostly to take-outorders. Tea is also available by the ounce.Winner of “Best Desserts” and “Best WeddingCakes.”2030 Madison Road, O’Bryonville, 513-321-3399. Open Monday-Saturday. $4-$7.

Bouquet Restaurant and WineBarFLAVOR: Share a cheese plate that includesNew York cheddar, sage derby, smoked moz-zarella and a Spanish drunken goat cheese,served with crackers, chutney and slices ofGranny Smith apple. The complex flavors ofthe cheeses complement a sip of a big redwine.FLAIR: A small and intimate space, with just ahandful of tables bordered on one side by anattractive curving bar — brick-walled, comfort-able and pleasant. Bouquet is a world awayfrom the nearby party bars of Mainstrasse.519 Main St., Covington, 859-491-7777. OpenWednesday-Saturday. $10-$25.

Dinner’s ReadyFLAVOR: Their menu changes monthly, but youmight find Four Cheese Ravioli Bake withItalian Sausage, Honey-Almond Chicken withMediterranean Vegetables or Prawns & PestoSauté with Jasmine Rice. Package them up,freeze them and reheat at home for gourmet-style meals anytime without the fuss and both-er of all that shopping and chopping. Theyhave new serving sizes, which are no longerdesigned to be split in half, so keep that inmind.FLAIR: This national franchise outlet let’s youcustomize and assemble meals for your familyin their clean, spacious kitchens from preparedingredients. Or, if you just need a meal fortonight, use their convenient grab-and-go serv-ice! Go online to check out their current menu:www.dinnersready.com.7201 Wooster Pike, Mariemont, 513-272-6325. Open Monday–Saturday. $12-$20 fortwo servings.

Fred and Gari’sFLAVOR: With a loyal following among downtownworkers who head there for great sandwichesmade with fresh-baked meats, Fred and Gari’sroast their own turkey, ham, pork tenderloinand chicken breast daily and also make gour-met pizzas on sourdough or honey whole-wheatcrust. For dessert, try the homemade pies.FLAIR: There’s not much ambiance; this placeis all about the food. An open kitchen behindthe counter gives you a look at the cookingaction. Service is friendly and animated, andregulars liven up the scene. Open for lunch,carryout and delivery only.629 Vine St., Downtown, 513-784-9000. OpenMonday-Friday. $3-$10.

KT’s Barbeque and DeliFLAVOR: In the heart of Reading, where the onlyother dining choice is whether or not you wantFrench fries with your burger, KT’s offers deli-cious, smoked-on-site barbeque and great sides.FLAIR: The owner of KT’s used to live in LosAngeles and was Roseanne Barr’s personalchef. CityBeat isn’t sure whether this is a posi-tive or a negative.

RIVERSIDE KOREAN RESTAURANTLOCATION: 512 Madison Ave., Covington, 859-291-1484

CUISINE: Korean

TABLE: Middle wooden floor table with a glass top about 18 inches above the ground thataccommodates five sitting on the floor. Rather than chairs, guests sit cross-legged onpink and green embroidered silk cushions. Some of the tables, including this one, havemirrors beside them. All of the floor tables are on a raised wooden platform and separat-ed from the rest of the dining room by Korean style wood and paper partitions. You mustremove your shoes before sitting at a floor table.

NICKNAME: None

WHAT MAKES THIS TABLE UNIQUE: Guests eat while sitting on the floor. For those who mightfind this uncomfortable, there’s also more traditional “booth” seating.

WHY I LOVE THIS TABLE: There’s something soothing about Asian décor. The simplicityappeals to me, and the partitions, while literally paper-thin, give a feeling of privacy. It’salso nice to dine barefoot and feels grounding to sit on the floor. Because of my Asianupbringing, it’s also somewhat comforting for me to eat at a low table as we used to doat my grandparents’ house.

WHY THE STAFF LOVES/HATES THIS TABLE: My server Brianna, who’s been working there forabout two years, says, “I don’t mind the floor tables. The only thing that’s different from aserving perspective is that I have to take my shoes off and have to serve at eye level. It’sa little bit challenging. You have to be coordinated.”(Liz Wu) 6818 Wooster Pike Mariemont Strand 513-561-5233

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Mon-Thu: 10am-9pm • Fri-Sat: 10am-11pm

Dine-In Wines By the Bottle.Only $4 Over Retail.

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PHOTO: EMILY MAXWELL

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FAVORITE TABLES

8501 Reading Road, Arlington Heights, 513-761-0200. OpenTuesday-Sunday. $5-$19.

Maki Express FLAVOR: This sushi bar and Asian kitchen is small but mighty.Besides being insanely delicious, it’s incredibly cheap. For lunch,spend only $8.50 and walk away with three rolls of vegetariansushi and a miso soup. It’s authentic, carefully crafted, mom-and-pop-style sushi, and they seriously have the best avocadoyou’ll ever eat. The friendly owners offer a wide selection ofthings other than sushi like noodle and rice dishes, includinghomemade ramen. FLAIR: This local little diner feels like the sort of place you findin Chicago or New York, not in Cincinnati. Getting a spot at oneof the coveted three or four tables in the tiny dining space islucky. If you can’t sit, bring it home.209 W. McMillan Ave., Clifton Heights. 513-721-6999. OpenMonday-Saturday. $6-11.

New Orleans To Go FLAVOR: Look for some of your favorite New Orleans treatsauthentically served up by a New Orleans native: Po’boys, cat-fish, roast and gravy and barbecued shrimp are all on the menu.So are platters named after N’lawins locales like Bourbon Streetand the Ninth Ward. And don’t forget the classic sides like redbeans and rice or jambalya. FLAIR: At this small neighborhood fixture, most people take theirorders “to go,” but grab one of the few tables — especiallywhen there’s live Cajun music playing.139 W. Kemper Road, Springdale, 513-671-2711. OpenTuesday-Saturday. $6-$22.

PortofinoFLAVOR: In addition to traditional pizzas and hoagies, Portofino’soffers Mediterranean and Middle Eastern items such as falafelsandwiches, gyros and spanikopita. Or combine flavors with aGreek pizza.FLAIR: A true neighborhood joint with friendly staff and bicycledelivery from Flying Food (513-591-FOOD).1609 Chase Ave., Northside, 513-542-5858. Open 7 days. $3-$17.

Salt of the EarthFLAVOR: Chef Jim Jennings offers mouth-watering “homestyle”fare (well, homestyle cooked by a four-star chef). No one in ourhome has ever made Teriyaki Salmon quite as delicious, and theVeggie Sandwich stuffed with eggplant, roasted peppers, goatcheese and fresh baby spinach isn’t a style our mother everknew. The menu also has a wide selection of vegetarianoptions, homemade soups and salads. You can also purchasedeli items by the pound to take with you.FLAIR: It’s easy to drive right by this unassuming storefront in astrip mall, but once inside you’ll love the big, light airy room withseveral tables for a leisurely lunch and open kitchen and selec-tion of unusual retail food items. There’s a patio for warmweather dining dressed up with big pots of fresh herbs that areput to use in the kitchen.4760 Red Bank Road, Madisonville, 513-272-3650. OpenMonday-Saturday. $7-$20.

SilvergladesFLAVOR: Offers great specialty sandwiches with entertainingnames like the Louisiana Lightning (salsa turkey, pepper jackcheese, hot mustard, red onion, salsa and lettuce). Also serveshot panini sandwiches and wraps as well as soups and daily hotmeals like home roasted pork loin, beef stroganoff and pulledpork barbecue.FLAIR: Silverglades looks and feels like the owners know whatthey’re doing. And they should — it’s been a family business forthree generations, starting back when Al Silverglade Sr. openeda stand at Findlay Market in 1922. With its high ceilings, bigwindows and corner location in the renovated RenaissanceBuilding, Silverglades has a hometown feel with a bit of big-cityflair.236 E. Eighth St., Downtown, 513-361-0600. Open Monday-Saturday. $6-$8.

Sophia’s DeliFLAVOR: Home cooking from the Greek “gigia” (grandmother) younever had. Features daily homestyle specials and sandwichesthat are cheap and cheerful, plus homemade baklava fordessert and the best tzatziki sauce ever.FLAIR: This place is so friendly you’ll feel like a regular after justone visit. Clean Formica tables and green Fiestaware plates,and when the cook makes a special trip over to ask how your

food is, it’s because he sincerely cares.811 Main St., Downtown, 513-723-1055. Open Monday-Friday.$4-$6.

Tattie’s Gourmet Deli FLAVOR: Try the Rio — your choice of roast beef or turkey, a bluecheese spread with shallots and garlic, fresh basil leaves, toma-to and red onion on a toasted baguette, or the Poppy — shavedlamb marinated in rosemary and garlic, dressed with garlic mayoand red onion, piled on a toasted baguette. A customer reportsit’s like eating in color after you’ve been on a diet of black andwhite.FLAIR: Excellent creative cooking you can carry home with pride.Tattie’s summer theme is marinated meats like Spicy AsianFlank Steak, Pork Tenderloin with cranberries, limes, garlic,honey and Mediterranean Chicken Breasts in an OrangeBalsamic to throw on your grill. Sides? Horseradish potatosalad, gazpacho, roasted garlic veggies and more. 233 Main St., Milford, 513-479-9900. Open Tuesday-Sunday.$7-$13.

Thai Express FLAVOR: A favorite stop for inexpensive, good Thai food andfriendly service. Most dishes come with your choice of tofu,chicken, pork or shrimp. All-time favorites are Pad Thai and theRed Curry with chicken, spring rolls or the Waterfall beef salad.FLAIR: The tiny, no-frills kitchen puts out some very tasty Thaifood. Everything is cooked in one of the two giant iron woks andnothing on the menu is outside a student’s budget. Winner of“Best Takeout.”213 W. McMillan Ave., Clifton Heights, 513-651-9000. OpenMonday-Saturday. $6-$9.

What’s for Dinner?FLAVOR: Chicken potpie made from scratch, crab cakes, chickenenchiladas, Mexican black bean lasagna — is this getting toyou? It’s killing us, and we haven’t even told you about thegrilled eggplant sandwich with fresh spinach, sautéed peppersand onions, goat cheese and spicy mayo. Where are our carkeys?FLAIR: If you decide to stay and savor your cranberry-oatmealcookie here, well, it’s like eating in grandma’s kitchen. But thecarryout is fantastic. Did you know that the biggest night of theweek for dinner to go is Monday? It’s true.3009 O’Bryon St., O’Bryonville, 513-321-4404. Open Monday-Saturday. $6-$18.

VEGETARIAN Myra’s DionysusFLAVOR: For years, Myra’s menu has been offering an interestingmix of homemade soups (over 20 in total), appetizers, salads,sandwiches, rice combinations and entrées. There’s a definitevegetarian slant with items such as the oat-based P.C. Burgerand the FBLT made with faux bacon, but meat eaters will find afew options as well, including a Zorba Sandwich with spicedmeat and tzatziki sauce on pita bread and a chicken entréeserved with brown rice and vegetables.FLAIR: Amongst the glitz of the new Calhoun Street, Myra’s is thetrue gem. It’s been a haven for UC students, old hippies andanyone else with a craving for good, wholesome food for 30years. 121 Calhoun St., Clifton Heights, 513-961-1578. Open 7 days.$3-$7.50.

The Veg Head FLAVOR: She’s a vegetarian, he’s not. Veg Head has somethingfor both, from chicken and roast beef to tempeh and tofu.Offering up nightly specials, our favorite is the orange sesametofu dinner with steeped kale, squash and red cabbage. Blackbean veggie burgers, made fresh daily, are thin and packed withflavor, served on whole wheat Kaiser rolls and loaded with top-pings. Don’t pass up their new Za’s, ultra-thin crust pizzas withtoppings like curry hummus! Wow.FLAIR: Owner Mark Metcalfe’s idea was to serve “fast food forthe 21st century.” Veg Head offers a healthy, home-style alterna-tive in the middle of Loveland’s strip-mall strip. Rustic woodentables and antique country knick-knacks. He’s also started afull-cycle recycling program with a local farm. They pick up VegHead’s compost, use it to grow herb tea and then Metcalfe buysit back to sell through the store. 920B Loveland-Madeira Road, Loveland, 513-697-7090.Monday-Saturday. $6-$10.

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What’s Cooking at The Melting Pot!

Mondays | SIN NightEnjoy 40% off dinner for people

who work in the service industry.

Tuesdays | Kids’ NightReceive a free kids’ entrée with the purchase of an adult entrée.

WednesdaysWine Down Wednesdays

Enjoy 50% off bottles of wine up to $80.

Fridays | Date NightEnjoy a four-course fondue dinner

(Signature Selection) and two glasses of champagne for only $69.

Cincinnati11023 Montgomery Road | 513.530.5501

Visit www.meltingpot.com for specialevents, promotions and directions!

www.meltingpot.com | fondue coast to coast | locally owned and operated

fine aged cheeses | assorted wines | seafood and steaks | chocolate fondue

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