6 Must-Try Cincinnati Restaurants That Made OpenTable's Top 100 List

Cincinnati isn’t just making headlines—it’s setting the table. The Queen City officially landed six coveted spots on OpenTable's prestigious Top 100 Restaurants in America for 2024. That’s right. Not one, not two, but six Queen City culinary gems made the cut. And if you're wondering about the rest of Ohio? Zero.

From Italian comfort food to legendary steakhouses, these top-tier eateries are cementing Cincinnati's reputation as a gastronomic destination. Here are the six must-visit Cincinnati restaurants that rose above the rest, in alphabetical order.

1. Alfio’s Buon Cibo – Hyde Park

Blending Argentinian heart with Italian soul, Alfio’s Buon Cibo delivers a dining experience that fuses the best of both cultures. Known for its handcrafted ravioli and expertly curated wine pairings, this cozy Hyde Park gem redefines fusion cuisine.

Dish to Try: Tiramisu, hailed by many locals as the best in the city.

Atmosphere: Warm, inviting, and ideal for date nights or intimate celebrations.

2. Boca – Downtown

When elegance meets culinary innovation, you get Boca. An icon of the Cincinnati fine dining scene, Boca delivers modern French and Italian fare with theatrical flair. It's where seasonal ingredients meet meticulous execution.

Dish to Try: Their tasting menu is an immersive journey through flavors. Research ahead—every option is tempting.

Atmosphere: Upscale, sleek, and perfect for milestone moments.

3. Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse – Downtown

A Cincinnati institution synonymous with luxury, Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse is where USDA Prime steaks and decadent seafood reign supreme. This opulent downtown venue is a celebration of excellence, known for its show-stopping hospitality.

Dish to Try: The surf and turf—an 8 oz. filet mignon paired with a 12 oz. lobster tail. And yes, don’t skip the mac and cheese.

Atmosphere: Glamorous and buzzing. Ideal for celebrations.

4. Pepp & Delores – Over-the-Rhine

Italian comfort food served in a lively, stylish setting? Yes, please. Pepp & Delores captures the warmth of traditional Italian kitchens with modern flair. From house-made pasta to a vibrant ambiance, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Dish to Try: Any of their hand-cut pastas, made fresh in-house.

Atmosphere: Elegant yet laid-back—perfect for a romantic dinner or a classy group outing.

5. Sotto – Over-the-Rhine

Descending the steps beneath Boca, you’ll uncover Sotto—a candlelit hideaway known for its rustic Italian soul and unforgettable dishes. Dining here feels like being let in on a delicious secret.

Dish to Try: Their house-made pasta and wood-fired entrées steal the show.

Atmosphere: Intimate, moody, and ideal for cozy evenings.

6. The Precinct – Columbia-Tusculum

Set in a historic police station, The Precinct blends old-world charm with steakhouse elegance. Another Jeff Ruby powerhouse, it’s beloved for premium cuts and flawless execution.

Dish to Try: Filet mignon or the iconic crab bisque.

Atmosphere: Rich in history, bold in flavor, and steps away from The Baron Group’s office (a deliciously dangerous proximity).

Local Favorites: Honorable Mentions

While OpenTable crowned the top six, here are five of my local favorites worth a visit:

• Jags Steak and Seafood – West Chester

• Two Cities Pizza – Mason

• The Eagle – Over-the-Rhine

• Kitchen Social – Montgomery

• Skyline Chili – Anywhere, anytime

Cincinnati: A Destination for Food Lovers

OpenTable’s recognition cements what locals have long known: Cincinnati is a food city. Whether you’re celebrating, indulging, or simply exploring new flavors, these six restaurants represent the very best of Queen City cuisine.

So go ahead—make that reservation, bring your appetite, and taste what makes Cincinnati one of America’s most surprising culinary capitals.

Which of these spots are you adding to your must-visit list? Let us know in the comments!