WhereToEat: Cincinnati and N.Ky (open chat)

quote:

Originally posted by Slogun

quote:

Slogun...since you are up that way, have you tried the sushi at Bistro Ginza on Mason Montgomery? I have heard good things, but haven't tried it myself. Kyoto is very good and is very reasonable especially during there happy hour deals. Have you tried Hot Doggin It next door or Cheezburger Cafe across the lot?

I have not been to Bistro Ginza. Is that the place next to the burrito place?

Hot Doggin It gets my business whenever I want a Hot Dog. My sister lives in chicago and I visit 2-3 times a year and they are very authentic dogs.

I have not been to the Cheezburger Cafe. I went to the Bagel shop next door on my first weekend morning in Cinci. They appear to be owned by the same people. The Bagel wasn't very good and I got my coffee out of a vending machine so I haven't gone back. I have read good things about it and will have to give them a chance.

If you want a really great bagel or bialy there is really only one place in greater Cincinnati to get them at:

Marx Hot Bagels
http://www.cincinnati.com/dining/marx/
Cuisine:
Deli/Sandwiches

Price:
Under $10

Attire:
Casual

Eat in or carry out at Marx's, either way is quick, tasty, healthful and efficient. Tuna, egg, and fish salads, and hummus and tabouli are available in bulk for take home too.

Cincinnati's first bagel company makes over 40 varieties fresh daily. Have your bagel as a sandwich with a boogling variety of choices - pb&j, tuna Reuben, lox and cream cheese, pizza bagel, four cheese melt - or have a sandwich made on an equally mind-blowing choice of breads. Tuna, chicken, egg, and baked salmon salad, hummus and tabouli or veggie burgers are just a few of the items. Kids will enjoy meatless chicken nuggets or sausage patty. Drinks include coffees, espressos, cappucino, juices, sodas, even slush puppies. Have a brownie, cookie or soft serve for the sweet tooth.

Features:
• Catering
• Family friendly
• Smoke free
• Take-out offered
• Vegetarian friendly
9701 Kenwood Road
Cincinnati, OH 45242
513-891-5542
6 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Friday; 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday-Sunday.

http://www.cincinnatiusa.com/Dining/detail.asp?RestID=1128

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They are just like the Bronx NY Kosher bagels that I grew up on!

The owner is a Catholic believe it or not but they are made under Kosher conditions as is the whole deli.

**********************************************************

Only the Kenwood store is operational at this time.

quote:

The Italian joint right there, Bravo's, is exceptionally good for a chain

Yeah my GF is an Italian food junkie. So I usually take her there when I don't feel like driving all the way downtown to scotti's. We have been to several different Bravo locations and they are all good. Like my grandparents say about why they like Bob Evans so much. "you know what you're going to get!"

Scotti's is my GF's favorite restaurant in Cinci. We actually stumbled upon it on our exploratory trip to Cinci. We just decided to drive downtown and look around after a long day of apartment hunting. We first walked into Universal Grill next door which was a bit of surprise.(Anyone who has been there will know why.) Still the place was nice so we had a drink and did some people watching. We decided to go next door and get dinner. The food was great. I had veal that was perfectly cooked and my GF had the Spaghetti Bolognese. She asked them to melt cheese on top of it, and they said no which I thought was hilarious. I wont melt cheese on her spag when I make it either. The food was a so good and the ambience is nice. one of our favorites.

quote:

They are just like the Bronx NY Kosher bagels that I grew up on! The owner is a Catholic believe it or not but they are made under Kosher conditions as is the whole deli.

I am practically on my way. There is such a large Jewish community in the Detroit area you take a good bagel for granted!

I like Metro Bagels on Mason-Montgomery North of I-71 much much better than Marx

http://www.aroundcinci.com/food/restaurant.asp?restaurant=575

I like Marx Bagels a genuine classic Kosher New York type bagel shop so much better then Metro Bagels

http://www.cincinnati.com/dining/marx/

quote:

Originally posted by sizz

I like Marx Bagels a genuine classic Kosher New York type bagel shop so much better then Metro Bagels

http://www.cincinnati.com/dining/marx/

When Marx Bagels were in Roselawn in the 70's, they were GOOD bagels. They were boiled before they were baked. A small shop produced some great bagels, some really great {GRR8...} bagels. Only my Cincy version of good bagels. I miss them.

quote:

Originally posted by TJ Jackson

I like Metro Bagels on Mason-Montgomery North of I-71 much much better than Marx

http://www.aroundcinci.com/food/restaurant.asp?restaurant=575

May I ask where you were born and raised? We seem to have different tastes in bagels and pizza which probably stems from our early year experiences growing up I would be willing to bet.

quote:

Originally posted by rpglegal

First time poster here... but a rabid reader of this thread, and I thank those who recommended Honey in Northside. We celebrated my foodie daughter's 18th birthday there and were much impressed... with food, atmosphere, serving the works.

Anyway... living in the Blue Ash area, I have to admit I was embarrassed that I had not been to Cheezeburgers.. the restaurant attached to Skips' on Montgomery... So in January I decided to make a stop... and have now been back 4 times The crew that works there have a great time providing a terrific burger and the onion straws are delicious. Not a bad price point either!

And have made 3 visits to Incahoots in Blue Ash since they opened. Really like this place, but the parking stinks. No way you can do this place on a Friday evening, but on Saturday afternoon, and week nights its a lovely location, and my biggest compliment.. portion sizes that are about perfect! Really like their fish sandwich and the salad with the pasta noodles in it. The champagne pear salad dressing is addicting. You can go in and get dinner and still have room to split a wonderful dessert. They don't do their cheesecake in house, but whoever they get it from... it's delightful, and the Creme Carmel is sinful.

Lastly... we visited the new BJ's at Tri-County during their pre-opening fund raising event. Sat at the bar and was entertained by a great Bar crew. Tried the beer sampler (they brew their own...) and several were wonderful.. a few I took a pass on. Also tried their homemade rootbeer which was a definitely thumbs up... if your a root beer lover. Food was very good.. portions were huge! Can you say cheesecake factory???? Tried to make a trip back last Friday night... at 7 pm they had a 2 hour wait! So we hopped back in the car and headed up Rt. 4 to stop in at Sabor Peruano (peruvian)

I had lunch in their old restaurant and wanted to try the new location. Same menu... just a larger space. It is definitely different... and I'm still not sure what I think? On the appetizer menu try Huancaina which is their version of potato salad. It is addicting!... but what about my steak dinner? Think layers... Rice, french fries, fried banana's, steak, fried eggs... ???? Yup... the steak has a lot of seasoning and is pounded flat. They use alot of cilantro in their cooking, and I'm not a fan, so that may be what turned me off. Dinner companion had Fried fish with onions and tomatoes. Fish was very fishy! But the onions and tomatoes were delicious over rice..... Prices are a little higher than you might expect.
That's all for now!

First things first, T.J. thanks for your reviews of several places downtown to eat. I have tried many a place and agreed with your opinion most of the time (except for the Gondola Pizza place). Having grown up in NYC and living here in Cinci for the past 2.5 years I am confident that Gondola pizza is nothing close to NY pizza.

As for my main point, I agree with luebster. The new place on Vine called Balboas is the place for hard core pizza lovers fro the east coast. Went there twice this week after reading luebsters review and the cheesesteak is the best in Cinci. No one touches this place and there ingredients. Talked w/ the manager for a couple of minutes and he said they import their main ingredients from the east coast. The sad part for Gondola pizza is that this prime NY style pizza joint (Balboas) is right around the corner from them. The manager said they are opening til 4am on Thurs, Fri, and Sat starting next week. Thank god, no more Shanghai Mama for a little while

Re: Gondola's
I have been thinking lately that I need to revisit the place to see if they've improved, and in fact, almost ate there today. I honestly have never been to NYC, so I can only say that when I was last there, it has the "look" of a NYC pie, to my untrained eye. Sorry if I misrepresented. The fellow who runs the place seems to be a NYer...

Re: Metro Bagels
I haven't been there in a few years. I need to check them out again as well.

Re: Rise and Shine Cafe
The "closed for water main break" sign at Rise and Shine has been replaced by a Realtor's "space available" poster. I don't think they are coming back this time.

Re: Kickin Chicken Fingers
On page 28 of this thread, I told you how the old Patoshnik's space had been redeveloped as Papa Joe's Kickin' Chicken Fingers and Fries. I don't know when it came to an end, but the place has been permanently closed, with all the equipment gone. The Chamber's restaurant in the building next store (formerly Reno's) is also closed - "over a year now" according to the guard on duty. I don't get up that way as much since Patoshnik's went under and Harry's closed.

Re: Oceanaire
I peeked into the interior today, and it is coming together slowly. I don't see the frantic workpace I expected, and the "Opening in March" sign has been replaced by one reading "Opening in Late Spring".

Re: Burrito Joe's
The new location on Main in the former "Carol's on Main" space is open. Sue me for loving a chain over a local guy, but downtown Cincinnati really, really needs a Chipotle. Or Two. Or someone (not Moe's) who can make a decent burrito, chain or not. I still don't understand why Javier's doesn't do a pork burrito.

Re: Amor de Brazil
I'm stealing this straight from the Cincinnati Foodie Blog - they closed for good as of March 11. Cincinnati has one Churruscaria left - Boi Na Braza in the Carew Tower. Guess I will have to get over there soon before this lousy economy takes them down too

Two late nights at work have led to 2 consecutive nights out. Suburban Dad wondered if I had been to Bistro Ginza or Cheezburger Cafe. Well as of tonight I can say yes and yes.

Bistro Ginza.

If I had ordered Sashimi I probably would have been very happy but I ordered Nigiri sushi instead. My main problem is that the rice was very warm. It bordered on hot. I am a cool rice kind of guy. The fish was expertly prepared and very fresh but the very warm rice threw me off.

I ordered 12 pieces Nigiri sushi and GF ordered seafood udon noodles. We ended up sharing the 2 dishes. The sushi was 24.95 and the noodles 11.95. Add in tax and 20% tip and we were sitting at $47 and change.

The service was prompt but without enthusiasm. The overall ambiance of the restaurant was fairly uncomfortable.
Bottom line: The fish was excellent but GF and I didn't feel very welcome, and I didn't like the Very warm rice.

Cheezburger Cafe was great! The service was so friendly and helpful. We both made our own burgers, and I had the Cajun fries and she had the regular fries. Our server made our night with his enthusiasm and prompt service. The burgers were tasty and the price was right.

I was really looking forward to Bistro Ginza and not sure if I even wanted to go to Cheezeburger cafe. Its funny how superior service can make a $16 meal seem far more enjoyable and satisfying than a $48 meal.

Lunchbunch at DeMeo's Pasta & Grill in Milford Today... had eaten a while back at his previous Milford restaurant (Lighthouse?). Corn chowder to write home about! Best I've ever had... better than most Souther Italian (I prefer Northern Italian) food I've eaten in the area, but, generally, I was not impressed. the same guy had brought out killer food to us. today breadsticks were superb... antipasto also... (and vanilla bean cheesecake - none of their tradmark carrot cake) - prices are reasonable $7-10 for entrees...there were only couple of pieces of sausage in my rigatoni (we all shared 4 diff entrees).. I wonder if i'd be happier w/ Dom's dinners....

quote:

Originally posted by franklee

Lunchbunch at DeMeo's Pasta & Grill in Milford Today... had eaten a while back at his previous Milford restaurant (Lighthouse?). Corn chowder to write home about! Best I've ever had... better than most Souther Italian (I prefer Northern Italian) food I've eaten in the area, but, generally, I was not impressed. the same guy had brought out killer food to us. today breadsticks were superb... antipasto also... (and vanilla bean cheesecake - none of their tradmark carrot cake) - prices are reasonable $7-10 for entrees...there were only couple of pieces of sausage in my rigatoni (we all shared 4 diff entrees).. I wonder if i'd be happier w/ Dom's dinners....

Dom's (owner and cook) dinners include for the most part the option to vary the sauce taste from sweet to as spicy as you would like - I had the eggplant parmesan at Dom's with the lunchbunch and I found it to be delicious but the sauce was too sweet. I also thought the amount of sausage in franklee's entree was very skimpy as well as the amount of scallops (6) in the Lighthous Scallops entree - which is breaded scallops tossed in a light garlic cream sauce with parmesan cheese, bacon and penne pasta for $8.95. I too loved the garlic breadsticks and antipasto but I am always disappointed with Cinci antipasto not including roasted peppers or true Italian coldcuts like cappicola or prosciutto or mortadella. Their southern fried chicken tenders were outstanding.

I had been to Dom's previous Lighthouse Restaurant in Milford that he ran with his wife Lynette - I learned while at DeMeo's that Lynette and her sister Sandy (the cake maker and carrot cake creator/expert) opened a family home-cooking type restaurant (Bakers Family Diner) about 5 miles from DeMeo's this past November - in Goshen - also on State Route 28 - across from the Eagle Nest Golf Course (tel 513 575 4060) - which I am anxious to try soon.

quote:

Originally posted by yonkersnyc

First things first, T.J. thanks for your reviews of several places downtown to eat. I have tried many a place and agreed with your opinion most of the time (except for the Gondola Pizza place). Having grown up in NYC and living here in Cinci for the past 2.5 years I am confident that Gondola pizza is nothing close to NY pizza.

As for my main point, I agree with luebster. The new place on Vine called Balboas is the place for hard core pizza lovers fro the east coast. Went there twice this week after reading luebsters review and the cheesesteak is the best in Cinci. No one touches this place and there ingredients. Talked w/ the manager for a couple of minutes and he said they import their main ingredients from the east coast. The sad part for Gondola pizza is that this prime NY style pizza joint (Balboas) is right around the corner from them. The manager said they are opening til 4am on Thurs, Fri, and Sat starting next week. Thank god, no more Shanghai Mama for a little while

Hi yonkersnyc! We seem to be from the same neck of the woods growing up - I grew up in Yonkers and fondly recall real NY crust pizzas! I had missed word on Balboa's - I will have to try it soon - I live a bit away from downtown and normally avoid downtown due to traffic and parking - being retired for some time.

Here is an article I found on Balboa's opening/history:

http://milwaukee.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/othercities/cincinnati/stories/2008/02/11/story11.html?b=1202706000%5E1588335

Business Courier of Cincinnati - February 11, 2008
http://www.bizjournals.com/milwaukee/othercities/cincinnati/stories/2008/02/11/story11.html



Friday, February 8, 2008
Cheesesteak joint Balboa's knuckles into Dink's downtown Cincinnati space
Business Courier of Cincinnati - by Lisa Biank Fasig Staff Reporter

Dink's, the downtown luncheonette that brought low-priced Frito pies, gravy fries and Chicago dogs to office workers, is changing ownership to become an eatery dedicated to Philadelphia's best-known foods.

Owner Kent Vandersall, who opened the Vine Street eatery in April 2006, is selling his lease and expects the deal to be completed by next week. His last day will be Feb. 8. The new owner, former Subway franchisee Harish Sonecha, plans to reopen March 3 as Balboa's Philly Steaks and Pizza.

For Vandersall, the move was more about time than business. As the general manager of the Phoenix downtown, he's been pulling down two full-time jobs.

"It's just too much work," he said.

Sonecha and his partner, Tej Thakar, will specialize in authentic Philly cheese-steaks, with the meat and bread flown in from Philadelphia. They also will make New York-style pizzas, with the dough coming from the East Coast, and lastly, they will sell Tastykakes, the snack cakes made and sold in Philadelphia.

This is the second Balboa's for Sonecha, a Philadelphia native. He opened his first location last November in Indianapolis, where he had operated several Subway franchises. He also had operated some franchises in Cincinnati but wanted a change of pace.

"We've all had enough of the franchise stuff and decided we want to do things the way we want," he said.

Debi O'Dell, general manager at Diamond Properties, which owns the building at 628 Vine St., said Sonecha signed a five-year lease after looking at other downtown sites. She hooked him up with Vandersall.

"I know that Kent was interested in giving up his business," she said.

But Vandersall, who is from Long Island, N.Y., said he'd do it again. "It's been a blast," he said. "I don't regret anything."

E-mail: lfasig@bizjournals.com. Call: (513) 337-9435.

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P.S. On what page is luebster's review of Balboa's found on in this thread?

quote:

Originally posted by luebster

Ate at Balboa's (the cheesesteak/pizza place in the former Dink's) Thursday. I've not eaten a "true" Philly cheesesteak before, so I can't tell you how it compares, but I can tell you that what Balboa's serves is very good.

I had a half Philly Cheesesteak and fries. If I had to compare the fries to a fast-food joint, I'd say they are closest to McDonald's. Very good. Too bad they seem to use generic ketchup and not standards like Heinz or Hunts.

The Amaroso(?) roll was very soft, fresh, and delicious. The steak was very tender and seasoned appropriately with hints of salt and pepper. I added onions, mushrooms and provolone (I know...shoulda got it "with whiz") from the extensive list of ingredients you can add.

My meal was great and I'll definitely be back for more.

NYPN~

This was on pg. 47. SOunds like it's worth a try. If I go, I'll bring my camera.

quote:

Originally posted by soozycue520

quote:

Originally posted by luebster

Ate at Balboa's (the cheesesteak/pizza place in the former Dink's) Thursday. I've not eaten a "true" Philly cheesesteak before, so I can't tell you how it compares, but I can tell you that what Balboa's serves is very good.

I had a half Philly Cheesesteak and fries. If I had to compare the fries to a fast-food joint, I'd say they are closest to McDonald's. Very good. Too bad they seem to use generic ketchup and not standards like Heinz or Hunts.

The Amaroso(?) roll was very soft, fresh, and delicious. The steak was very tender and seasoned appropriately with hints of salt and pepper. I added onions, mushrooms and provolone (I know...shoulda got it "with whiz") from the extensive list of ingredients you can add.

My meal was great and I'll definitely be back for more.

NYPN~

This was on pg. 47. SOunds like it's worth a try. If I go, I'll bring my camera.

Thanks sc520.

Does anyone know where you can find crusty chewy Jewish rye bread like you find in NYC/Yonkers bakeries? I have had no luck in greater Cinci and I have lived here since 1977.

quote:

Originally posted by TJ Jackson

Re: Gondola's
I have been thinking lately that I need to revisit the place to see if they've improved, and in fact, almost ate there today. I honestly have never been to NYC, so I can only say that when I was last there, it has the "look" of a NYC pie, to my untrained eye. Sorry if I misrepresented. The fellow who runs the place seems to be a NYer...

Re: Metro Bagels
I haven't been there in a few years. I need to check them out again as well.

Re: Rise and Shine Cafe
The "closed for water main break" sign at Rise and Shine has been replaced by a Realtor's "space available" poster. I don't think they are coming back this time.

Re: Kickin Chicken Fingers
On page 28 of this thread, I told you how the old Patoshnik's space had been redeveloped as Papa Joe's Kickin' Chicken Fingers and Fries. I don't know when it came to an end, but the place has been permanently closed, with all the equipment gone. The Chamber's restaurant in the building next store (formerly Reno's) is also closed - "over a year now" according to the guard on duty. I don't get up that way as much since Patoshnik's went under and Harry's closed.

Re: Oceanaire
I peeked into the interior today, and it is coming together slowly. I don't see the frantic workpace I expected, and the "Opening in March" sign has been replaced by one reading "Opening in Late Spring".

Re: Burrito Joe's
The new location on Main in the former "Carol's on Main" space is open. Sue me for loving a chain over a local guy, but downtown Cincinnati really, really needs a Chipotle. Or Two. Or someone (not Moe's) who can make a decent burrito, chain or not. I still don't understand why Javier's doesn't do a pork burrito.

Re: Amor de Brazil
I'm stealing this straight from the Cincinnati Foodie Blog - they closed for good as of March 11. Cincinnati has one Churruscaria left - Boi Na Braza in the Carew Tower. Guess I will have to get over there soon before this lousy economy takes them down too

OMG, I loved that Amor de Brazil. The gf and I went there for our birthdays. That's very depressing. And on top of Giovanni's closing. Bad week for Bonk.

The Poppa Joe's doesn't surprise me. The food was pretty good, but it was impossible to figure out when he was going to be open. I have very little patience with that.

Chamber's was terrible anyway. Even though our business is out of that building, I hope they put something good there eventually.

TJ - Did you talk to the 6-feet-9 security guard in the lobby? He used to play basketball for UD. Nice guy. Mark, I think his name is.

The problem with people in Cinci is that they can't seems to stop ordering LaRosas, Donatos, and any other chain pizza long enough to try the smaller shops and recognize the quality available in some of these other joints.

I do have to say that the bread they use at Balboa's reminds me of the same Italian roll that I got back home. Apparently its opening til 4am starting this coming week on Thurs, Fri, and Sat nights and I for one am looking forward to inhaling some steaks and pizza after a good night of drinking.

quote:

Originally posted by yonkersnyc

The problem with people in Cinci is that they can't seems to stop ordering LaRosas, Donatos, and any other chain pizza long enough to try the smaller shops and recognize the quality available in some of these other joints.

I do have to say that the bread they use at Balboa's reminds me of the same Italian roll that I got back home. Apparently its opening til 4am starting this coming week on Thurs, Fri, and Sat nights and I for one am looking forward to inhaling some steaks and pizza after a good night of drinking.

Many small shops also have stinky pizza, ie Flying Pizza, Roc-A-Fella, Nicky's Famous Pizza (except their thin crust which they don't tell you about till you complain about their regular cakey crust).

Dewey's Pizzeria is one of the exceptions in Cinci though - they do it mostly right most of the time.

I like Aponte's pizza in Mason...can anyone from NY/NJ area vouch for the authenticity of this east coast pie?

Long-time lurker, first time poster.

I have to whole-heartedly agree with luebster's review of balboa's and not only because I was sitting across the table. I have gotten an authentic philly steak (although only one) and can honestly say this is the closest I've ever tasted, definitely my favorite in the nati by far. Plenty of grease, in the best way, and everything seemed very fresh. It would be great if they offered the cherry peppers like philly, but the wiz, soft roll, and tender steak make up for it. I didn't try the za myself, but two others in our group did and said it was really good. I will say it smelled delicious. Every time I've walked past there seems too be quite a line, which I'm happy to see. I think this place definitely has a future and the late-night weekend hours will surely help their business as well as downtown's.

quote:

Originally posted by Suburban Dad

I like Aponte's pizza in Mason...can anyone from NY/NJ area vouch for the authenticity of this east coast pie?

Their crust is limp and cakey - not really like the chewy crusty NY style.

quote:

Originally posted by thisIsSteve

Long-time lurker, first time poster.
I will say it smelled delicious. Every time I've walked past there seems too be quite a line, which I'm happy to see. I think this place definitely has a future and the late-night weekend hours will surely help their business as well as downtown's.

I think a lot of the local foodies lurk here or pass on info from this site based upon the e-mails i have had with Enquirer staff and knowlege of CinWeekly moles.

I will be down to balbos this week or next and those who i have sent have had good experiences including a friend who flies to Jersey/Philly every Monday to return every Friday fro business.

Amarossa rolls are also used a WAWA's as you all know, so it is a good product thru and thru. Maybe not EXACT, but good enough for a river town.

TJ, let me know your schedele for the next week or two and i'd love to get togther and finally chat over a cheesesteak.

jjjrfoodie

Here is a good write-up on what NY style pizza is supposed to be:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York-style_pizza

quote:

Originally posted by thisIsSteve

Long-time lurker, first time poster.

I have to whole-heartedly agree with luebster's review of balboa's and not only because I was sitting across the table. I have gotten an authentic philly steak (although only one) and can honestly say this is the closest I've ever tasted, definitely my favorite in the nati by far. Plenty of grease, in the best way, and everything seemed very fresh. It would be great if they offered the cherry peppers like philly, but the wiz, soft roll, and tender steak make up for it. I didn't try the za myself, but two others in our group did and said it was really good. I will say it smelled delicious. Every time I've walked past there seems too be quite a line, which I'm happy to see. I think this place definitely has a future and the late-night weekend hours will surely help their business as well as downtown's.

Well I went to Balboa's today and I agree with the article that pizzanut linked up to. Their pizza crust is definately more indicitive of NY style crust than any others in the area. I had a slice and a cheesesteak too. What can I say, I'll worry about the cholestoral later.

The damn Amoroso roll is what does it. Don't bother getting anything but the cheese whiz on it. That product was made for cheesesteaks if nothing else. I think Friday will be a Tastykake day for me. The guy ahead of me in line bought 5 packs to take back to people in his office.

[
Does anyone know where you can find crusty chewy Jewish rye bread like you find in NYC/Yonkers bakeries? I have had no luck in greater Cinci and I have lived here since 1977.


No such thing in Cincinnati that I have found (lived here since 1975). The closest substitute I have found is the Salt Rye at Servati's - a nice rye with a chewy crust. Not quite a ny jewish rye (doesn't have as much of that pleasantly sour taste) but still a very nice rye. I get up to Cleveland a lot and can get real jewish rye up there (Davis bakery.)

Next - Any NY refugees yet discover the Nathan's hot dog place in West Chester?

Two weeks ago I went to Tinks for restaurant week. The restaurant week portions were small, but I went there for the shrimp & grits. I had already torn into it before I remembered I had my camera.






The second course was Portabella Beef Bruschetta.





My cousin ordered the Kobe Beef Burger {$15, not real bad for kobe in Cincy}. It was an excellent burger and great salad. I tried both, since I was still hungry after my $25.08 meal.








I had the Trio Plate for dessert. It consisted of a small triangle of Chocolate Decadence Cake, a small slice of bread pudding, and a spoon [yes, a teaspoon} of creme brulee'. It was really a fantastic, albeit small, meal. Oh, and I forgot to take a pic of the dessert plate.

I am looking for a good butcher in the area. I am specifically looking for piedmontese beef. I am in the loveland-Mason area if anyone could help that would be great.

While I am at it I am also looking for a good fish monger.

Thanks,

Slogun

btw Johnny Rockets also has Nathan's hotdogs...

lunchbunch today at Sister's BBQ & Soul Food, 5922 1/2 Hamilton Avenue in College Hill, a couple of blocks from Goodies and probably overlooked by us heretofore because of that. Imagine our surprise to find Sister's is even better than Goodies! Vinegar based sauce is delicious. Boneless ribtips. Excellent ribs, which (Owner's spouse) Harry assured us are qualitatively consistent. half a rack of baby ribs w/ two sides $10. Rib tips $7.50 (no sides). We also tried the catfish with cornmeal breading... catfish was tame but the breading took me back home to Tennessee.. excellent... Salmon croquettes were the best I've eaten in a long while... a little peppery with a hint of something else.. Bob thought citrusy... A little birdy told me there was a jar of mustard over there by the croquette table... mmmm... Sides: sweet potatoes definitely a 10... potato salad (with lots of egg) also a 10.... collards are as good as Aunt Flora's at Findlay Market... mac and cheese.. bob says it was also very good... not my cuppa... green beans didn't impress me.. Bob liked them... coleslaw.. a "different" taste which I liked a lot but which bob did not... an indication of what we liked is the takeout we order... bob ordered potato salad for home to go with his leftover ribs and tips... i got ribs/ribtips, greens, potato salad and sweet potatoes.. You have to look quickly, however.. Sister's is in the middle of the block.. just down (away from Ronald Reagon Hway) from North Bend..

quote:

Originally posted by franklee

btw Johnny Rockets also has Nathan's hotdogs...

lunchbunch today at Sister's BBQ & Soul Food, 5922 1/2 Hamilton Avenue in College Hill, a couple of blocks from Goodies and probably overlooked by us heretofore because of that. Imagine our surprise to find Sister's is even better than Goodies! Vinegar based sauce is delicious. Boneless ribtips. Excellent ribs, which (Owner's spouse) Harry assured us are qualitatively consistent. half a rack of baby ribs w/ two sides $10. Rib tips $7.50 (no sides). We also tried the catfish with cornmeal breading... catfish was tame but the breading took me back home to Tennessee.. excellent... Salmon croquettes were the best I've eaten in a long while... a little peppery with a hint of something else.. Bob thought citrusy... A little birdy told me there was a jar of mustard over there by the croquette table... mmmm... Sides: sweet potatoes definitely a 10... potato salad (with lots of egg) also a 10.... collards are as good as Aunt Flora's at Findlay Market... mac and cheese.. bob says it was also very good... not my cuppa... green beans didn't impress me.. Bob liked them... coleslaw.. a "different" taste which I liked a lot but which bob did not... an indication of what we liked is the takeout we order... bob ordered potato salad for home to go with his leftover ribs and tips... i got ribs/ribtips, greens, potato salad and sweet potatoes.. You have to look quickly, however.. Sister's is in the middle of the block.. just down (away from Ronald Reagon Hway) from North Bend..

This is the other part of the lunchbunch reporting on Sister's Restaurant. Firstly the writeup from cincinnatiusa:

http://www.cincinnatiusa.com/Dining/detail.asp?RestID=8003

Sister's Restaurant
Tel 513 542 1400
Cuisine:
Soul Food

Price:
Under $10

Attire:
Casual

Lovely atmosphere, colorful, clean, enjoyable, and family friendly.

Sister's is a soul food haven, with rib tips, salmon, chicken wings, catfish, tilapia, whiting, and a slew of sides-collard greens, candied yams, potato salad, cole slaw, and mac 'n' cheese. Try the triple chocolate cake or the lemon cake for dessert.

Features:
• Alcohol free
• Cash only
• Catering
• Family friendly
• Reservations accepted
• Smoke free
• Specialty desserts
• Take-out offered

********************************************

Please note they are open 9 am - 4 pm presently Tuesday - Saturday - they are closed on Sunday and Monday and do not serve past 4 pm (if you show up looking hungry just before 4 pm they will probably let you in and take good care of you.)

They serve wonderful looking reasonably priced breakfasts also - we saw some gorgeous looking omelettes being eaten when we first came in the door at 11 am.

I enjoyed this down-home restaurant because of the food and hospitality and friendliness of the owner and staff.

I am usually apprehensive about going to new places but this establishment taught me that the unknown factor sometimes leads to a truly delightful day. I cannot begin to tell you how much we enjoyed our food and visit to Sister's. What I will say is if you like this kind of food you will most likely love this place.

I have never tasted better rib tips, boneless or with bone. They were juicy and succulent and delicious - they came sauced and I think it would be very hard to top the delicious flavor of the rib tips with the sauce they make there daily. The baby ribs (same sauce) were also very tasty.

I loved the potato salad and the mac 'n' cheese and the sweet potatoes and collard greens (this is the first time I really enjoyed collard greens). I was also awed by the catfish and the salmon croquettes. The only item I disliked was the cole slaw which I found to be too sweet (it has sweet relish in it).

While there we noted many customers ordered hamburgers and turkey hamburgers and they seemed to really enjoy them.

They have a huge parking lot behind their building - which serves the whole retail strip on the block and there is an alley way that will take you to Hamilton Ave and and you turn right and go down a few stores to Sister's - if you park on Hamilton Ave you have to feed one or two hour meters.

If you like chess they have 2 beautiful sets there if you enjoy the game and have some spare time to play a game or two. We played a game of Scrabble afterwards (using our own board).

I went to Andy's Mediterranean Grille last night. When we were given menus, we were shocked at the prices. Now, I am not scared to pay $$$ for good food, but I didn't think $21 for 2 kabobs was reasonable. On the appetizer menu were $5.00 fries. We asked our server if the were Lebanese or greek, or special in any way. She said they were just regular steak fries. The greek salad is $10!!!!

Anyway, we order the Lebanese pizza {$10, without shawarma~some of the prices are even higher than on the website} and the Mediterranean appetizer sampler {$12}. We didn't order entrees because we saw the small size of plates coming to other tables. Having been at other Mediterranean restaurants in and outside of Cincinnati, I have not seen prices so high for such small portions of mediocre food. Maybe people think they are the only game in town, giving Andy the right to jack up prices.

Has anyone else been here? I would like to know if anyone has a different opinion. I did a search and couldn't find any comments about this restaurant on this site.

http://www.andyskabob.com/

I walked into Andy's one day thinking I'd try out the place, and walked right back out due to the prices. Never been back.

the lunchbunch went to Andy's years ago.. prob 2001-2003... before he was real popular... food wasn't great....prices weren't bad... Andy was friendly... course... lunchtime is a much better time to acquaint yourself with a restaurant methinks... and we try to arrive by 11am.. before the rush... I remember Andy talking about setting up a patio...but there was no raw kibbee which is one of the Lebanese foods I like...mediocre then... but friendly... I remember I bought several bottles of Lebanese wine for gifts... I do remember we did not rate it as a place to which we wanted to return

quote:

Originally posted by franklee

the lunchbunch went to Andy's years ago.. prob 2001-2003... before he was real popular... food wasn't great....prices weren't bad... Andy was friendly... course... lunchtime is a much better time to acquaint yourself with a restaurant methinks... and we try to arrive by 11am.. before the rush... I remember Andy talking about setting up a patio...but there was no raw kibbee which is one of the Lebanese foods I like...mediocre then... but friendly... I remember I bought several bottles of Lebanese wine for gifts... I do remember we did not rate it as a place to which we wanted to return

I wonder if they still have bellydancers on the weekends.

back in dec. i wrote:
I pretty much feel the same way you guys feel about the closing. That said, a guy Sandy works with told her late last week the place had closed. At the same time, he said that a place called European Deli and Bakery (or something like that) had opened in the richardson rd., weaver rd., u.s. 25 area. we're not that familiar with that part of nky., so i can't quite place it, but we'll probably check it out after the holidays. I kinda wonder if that isn't where Stefan, the butcher, didn't end up.

well, we went today. the name of the place is the europe market. it's really a yugoslavian place. i know yugoslavia doesn't exist anymore, but we couldn't tell if the products primarily came from bosnia, serbia or croatia. if i had to guess, i'd say croatia. canned and packaged goods, a small display of meats in a cooler and fresh baked bread. there were four guys watching a dvd at the front of the store. nobody paid any attention to us when we entered or when we left. a croatian woman sandy knows spoke highly of the bread, sausages and coffee. probably not worth going out of the way for unless you have a strong interest in this stuff.

quote:

Originally posted by NYPIzzaNut
They [Troni's] are in Kettering but some sites list them as Beavercreek - they are closed Sundays; they are open Monday - Thursday 11 am - 10 pm and Saturday hours are 11am - 11 pm.

I made it there a week ago (March 15). I didn't know how formal it was with the dim lights and candlelit tables--fortunately they let me in wearing jeans. I got a seat at the bar and ordered a 12-inch New York style pizza with pepperoni. It was good!

quote:

Originally posted by soozycue520

I went to Andy's Mediterranean Grille last night. When we were given menus, we were shocked at the prices. Now, I am not scared to pay $$$ for good food, but I didn't think $21 for 2 kabobs was reasonable. On the appetizer menu were $5.00 fries. We asked our server if the were Lebanese or greek, or special in any way. She said they were just regular steak fries. The greek salad is $10!!!!

Anyway, we order the Lebanese pizza {$10, without shawarma~some of the prices are even higher than on the website} and the Mediterranean appetizer sampler {$12}. We didn't order entrees because we saw the small size of plates coming to other tables. Having been at other Mediterranean restaurants in and outside of Cincinnati, I have not seen prices so high for such small portions of mediocre food. Maybe people think they are the only game in town, giving Andy the right to jack up prices.

Has anyone else been here? I would like to know if anyone has a different opinion. I did a search and couldn't find any comments about this restaurant on this site.

http://www.andyskabob.com/

First time poster, long time lurker...

If you would like a great Mediterranean type place you should check out Taz in Mason. It is across the street from Pizza Tower in what I believe used to be Burger King and behind the Frisches. It is owned by the son of the man that used to own Mejana in downtown Cincinnati and it is VERY good. Their prices are very reasonable and the amount of food you get for the price is very good.

Troni's... at lunch on the Thursday we were there was definitely informal...

any casual French style restaurants in the area?

quote:

Originally posted by franklee

any casual French style restaurants in the area?

Jean Ros Bistro between 4th and 5th on the west side of vine, eat at the bar if there is just a couple of you or if you are alone, Jen or Jeannie will take good care of you. I for one think that eating at the bar at the Bistro with Jeannie is one of the best bangs for the buck food, drink and and entertainment wise in town. the pom frites are the real deal, nd the liver melts in you mouth, good Belgian beer on tap.

Some misc comments

Foodie Blog
The[url='http://frontier.cincinnati.com/blogs/foodie/']Foodie Blog[/url] appears to be moving to a "only registered users can comment" arrangement, fueled no doubt by the large number of assinine remarks and personal attacks launched by anonymous posters there. This is from a remark entered by Nicci King in response to our own Vudutu in the comments to a recent blog entry. I for one am quite tired of the anonymous nonsense and look forward to the registration requirement. It's kinda funny and pathetic at the same time to watch the anonymous folks squirm and bray now that this has been announced - check it out at: http://frontier.cincinnati.com/blogs/foodie/2008/03/wine-dinner.asp#comments

Roma Italia
I made my very first visit to Roma Italia today and was very disappointed. The only two things even moderately good were the salad dressing and the fresh baked rolls. I will revisit to see if this was just a fluke, and will give a fuller report later.

Javier's
I desperately want to like this place, but again and again I get a less than tasty product that falls apart before I am even able to pick it up the first time. At Burrito Joes, same lack of taste but a least it all stays together and they do not charge extra for putting rice in the filling - Javier wants a buck for the rice - one of the cheapest ingredients he has! Mind you, I like the concept - I really like the Chipotle product, for example, which shares the same "big burrito" concept.

DeMeo's
I took the kids there on a night the wife was working late, as they love a plate of spaghetti and meatballs like few other dinner items in this world. We ended up with a chicken parm sandwich for me, a spaghetti and meatballs for the youngest, and a fettucini alfredo for the oldest. The sauce on my chicken parm was very good, but veered over into the sweet side - Cincinnati loves it's sweet sauces - me, not as much. Still solidly good. The youngest ate more than I have ever seen her eat before from a portion that was adult dinner sized (and then some) to my eyes, so she liked it. I tried the meatball, and found it velvety and delicious. The oldest's fettucini was buried in a sea of the thickest alfredo sauce I have ever seen. There was also a lot of clarified butter seperating in it. It had a good but mild taste, and naturally she tried of it quickly, preferring bits of what her sister and I had. This is another place I think merits a return visit for a re-try, this time for something featuring their bolognese sauce.

Country Inn
15 pages or so back in this thread, a fellow asked

quote:

Originally posted by CincyKid

Has anybody eaten at the Country Inn on Beechmont Avenue? They have really good breakfast and it's relatively inexpensive. They always have daily specials too.

....and I had always intended to get over there to check it out. I just managed to this past week due to a schedule oddity.....and it was not good at all Even the home fries were bad - and I had not before ever had bad home fries......biscuits and gravey were like 5 bucks by themselves, and the biscuits were from a box in the freezer - not worth a visit, folks

As you can see, I'm batting a thousand when it comes to disappointments, so throw me a bone if you've got one :-)

Note DeMeo's offers marinara sauce choices from sweet to spicy on their dinner menu. You have to know to request what you want.

The Country Inn you mention is owned by a Greek family, who own two other restaurants in Mt Orab - one is known by the same name and the other is Butterbee's - both are on Route 68 - Butterbee's is a sports bar and restaurant about a mile or so south of State Rt 32 on the left - I have not been there but it has got mixed reviews from what I hear - steaks, chops, burgers and other typical bar fare - the original Country Inn is down the road a piece about 3 miles south of State Rt 32 on the right side of the road.

This Country Inn has exceptionally good food, homemade sweet cornbread/rolls, a choice of two wonderful homemade soups/salad bar. Their fried chicken is exceptional - it takes 20 minutes to cook and is well worth the wait - it comes with choices of one or two vegetables or a variety of potato sides. Menu is pretty extensive.

My wife has been to the one on Beechmont and liked whatever she had. She tells me it has no salad bar.

My wife and I eat regularly at the Country Inn in Mt Orab and generally always stick with the fried chicken dinner/salad and soup bar/cornbread. It is like heaven. We have never had better fried chicken anywhere in the country - it is three large pieces and the skin is a wonder and the meat is succulent. We generally take a piece home along with some cornbread.

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF-8&q=country+inn&near=Mount+Orab,+OH&fb=1&view=text&latlng=39016107,-83924304,13708120476826796726&dtab=2&reviews=1&oi=more_rev&sa=X&ei=0x3oR573F5HOqgLC0pWTBA

TJ, what's going on with Pizzaville these days? Is he still open? My daughter was home sick much of last week and wanted a PARTICULAR flavor of Gatorade. I stopped at Bigg's on the way home, then hit Kroger's, striking out in both places. As I went from Bigg's to the Anderson Kroger I took a peek in the direction of Pizzaville and it looked deserted. (I couldn't slow down because I had some 6am jackass on my bumper.) My wife and daughter may leave town for a couple of days next week for spring break, and Pizzaville was one of the places that I thought I might take my son for dinner if we're bachelor living.

Pizzaville - I guess my reply email did not make it to you.

There is a sign in the window about remodeling and coming back with delivery available. No date mentioned, as best I recall when I pulled over to look a few weeks back. I hope he is OK.

I will monitor and let you know.

quote:

Originally posted by TJ Jackson

Pizzaville - I guess my reply email did not make it to you.

There is a sign in the window about remodeling and coming back with delivery available. No date mentioned, as best I recall when I pulled over to look a few weeks back. I hope he is OK.

I will monitor and let you know.

No, it's there. I just don't check that account very often. I don't even remember sending the e-mail. I'm slipping.
Guess that means we'll do the bachelor thing out at the new place in Florence. (Bourbon's?)

Check with Bob down at Eckerlins in Findlay market

http://www.findlaymarket.org/

Lukens, also at Findlay, for fish has been pretty good the last couple of years. There is a killer place in Madeira and in Hyde park/Oakley area on Edwards road near the Wine store, both are pricy.

quote:

Originally posted by Slogun

I am looking for a good butcher in the area. I am specifically looking for piedmontese beef. I am in the loveland-Mason area if anyone could help that would be great.

While I am at it I am also looking for a good fish monger.

Thanks,

Slogun

I went to Moe's (Burrito Place) I wasn't really thinking that it was going to be anything special, but to my surprise I actually prefer it to Chipotle. Staff was friendly and quick and the steak was more flavorful than it is at Chipotle. I am fairly fresh out of college so I have eaten a burrito or 2 at places like Panchero's, Baja Fresh, and chipotle.(pretty sure the 2 former are not in the cinci area) I still have to try their carnitas and barbacoa before I can make a completely informed decision but the first burrito I had was excellent.

While on the subject of Mexican I went to Taqueria Maya for the second time last week. Excellent

I had the pork Torta and GF(100% Mexican heritage) had the 3 tacos meal with azada and cilantro.

The pork torta was huge. For those who don't know a torta is a mexican sandwich on a crusty bun. Although this bun wasn't that crusty the pork was execellent.

I had the Tacos the last time I was there. and they are great. I get them the traditional way azada con cilantro y cebollas(steak with cilantro and onions). They were outstanding. By far the best and most authentic mexican place I have been to in cinci. Anybody looking for really good mexican food should go here.

Caveat: this is not Chi Chi's. The waitress might not speak the best english and most the customers don't speak any! and thats what makes it great.


Slogun

Slogun, I am always out gunning for good Mex around here but have never found it, I found one review but it is not good...

http://rodeo.cincinnati.com/ent2/entity.aspx?e=180732

"Taqueria Maya is far from authentic...they are over priced and the portions are small. If you want authentic mexican food...and FANTASTIC margaritas...you need to check out Palacio Azteca in Mason. Best in Cincinnati by a land slide."

They do mention Palacio Azteca also in Mason. Have you tried it?

quote:

Originally posted by Slogun

Taqueria Maya for the second time last week. Excellent

I had the pork Torta and GF(100% Mexican heritage) had the 3 tacos meal with azada and cilantro.

The pork torta was huge. For those who don't know a torta is a mexican sandwich on a crusty bun. Although this bun wasn't that crusty the pork was execellent.

I had the Tacos the last time I was there. and they are great. I get them the traditional way azada con cilantro y cebollas(steak with cilantro and onions). They were outstanding. By far the best and most authentic mexican place I have been to in cinci. Anybody looking for really good mexican food should go here.

Our lunchbunch has been to Taqueria Maya a few months ago and we enjoyed it very much and found it to be very authentic Mexican food, right down to the wonderful horchata. franklee put a review here a few pages back (you can find it via search feature I believe.) The service was good and we had a delightful young Mexican waitress who understood and spoke English quite well.


*************************************************************************

If you enjoy great schnecken there is a wonderful new bakery in Cheviot - their schnecken is simply fantastic - it puts Virginia Bakery's to shame - they are basically a German style bakery:

These are the owners:

http://his3yw.bay.livefilestore.com/y1pQYc-RhBczRBm0mlKfXerP9Mo-_GQ3m6oNI5zGe57sxx1rI97xyvljQJbi7pzhsyvpoVGk9oxRLVyx3LdSMDbaQ?PARTNER=WRITER


http://frontier.cincinnati.com/blogs/foodie/2008/01/good-baked-goods.asp

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Good Baked Goods


I'm pretty much OD'd on cookies, fudge, strudel, stollen, schnecken, toffee, peppermint ice cream, fruitcake. . . . .. and all the other holiday treats I've sent happily down the hatch in the last month or so.

Still. . . . when I hear of someone opening a new bakery, I feel I should check it out. Especially when described as homemade European pastries. On the west side.

Taber Bakery is a dream project of a young couple, Jeff and Jenny Taber. They're clearly starting on a shoestring, with a simply decorated storefront at North Bend and Harrison (next to the gun store). You might not give it a second look if you drove by. Jeff's the baker, and he makes real Danish pastry, in the form of breakfast Danishes, bear claws, and his own version of schnecken. It's buttery and rich. The schnecken is like "Cincinnati" schnecken, in that it's three cinnamon rolls baked in a loaf, but it's not the butter-soaked bread-like style of the Virginia Bakery. It's much more layered, with lots and lots of crunchy sugar between the layers.

And--are you from Buffalo? On Tuesdays, they have kummelweck, the coarse salt and caraway-sprinkled rolls necessary for beef on weck. I don't know what's authentic here, but I ran it past a Buffaloan I know, and he said they were right. . . . Delicious homemade rolls, in any case.
3408 Harrison Ave., Cheviot, 513-661-BAKE.
posted by Polly Campbell at 12:31 PM


4 Comments:

at 2:14 PM Mary said...
Good for them. I hope that they do well. I just can't see myself schlepping to the Westside for baked goods when I have Frieda's in Madeira, but hopefully they will have enough of a clientelle on that side of town. Like Marge Schott used to say after she spent 30+ years reviewing car loan applications, "The Westside has the money, the Eastside has the bills."

at 12:14 AM Ryan Detzel said...
Holy Fresh Baked Schnecken Batman! That's right down the street from my house.

I'll have to check it out...you know, for the purpose of research. Someone's gotta do it.

at 3:49 PM Anonymous said...
Hey Polly -- Totally off topic question, but will you review Rue Dumaine in Dayton? I know it's technically outside of the Enquirer's normal area, but Chuck Martin did profile the chef and Anne Kearney probably has enough of a name that she could draw plenty of people from Cincy.

at 12:39 PM Anonymous said...
I have been to the Taber Bakery. Their Schnecken and Bienenstich (Bee Sting pastry) are out of this world, as well as their Thursday special, Multi-grain Sourdough bread. The owners are a delightfu

palacio azteca,

I drove past it once and it appeared to be closed. I just put in a phone call to them and the number seems to be disconnected. I will swing by there soon to make sure but I am nearly positive they are closed.

As far as the negative reviews about taqueria maya go, I can see someone having issues with the service, but not the authenticity. In my opinion the best way to know if a Mexican restaurant is authentic is to look at the clientele. I see lots of Mexicans there and to be honest not very many other places in Mason. Give it a try its worth the trip.

[Re: Amor de Brazil
I'm stealing this straight from the Cincinnati Foodie Blog - they closed for good as of March 11. Cincinnati has one Churruscaria left - Boi Na Braza in the Carew Tower. Guess I will have to get over there soon before this lousy economy takes them down too



Does anyone know why they closed? I was completely bummed. We have friends coming from outta town and we were all going there. My husband had been there twice and another friend and LOVED it.....I was so excited to go. I kept calling to make reservations and the phone just rang and rang, no answer. I asked my hubby "do you think they closed" and he said "there is no way". Well I decided to swing by yesterday and it was pitch black....sign on door "Sorry for the Inconvenience We have closed operations effective immediately It has been our pleasure serving you for the past 2 years" Well....I am dying to know what happen to this place....they were always busy!!!????

http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2008/03/17/daily43.html?surround=lfn
Thursday March 20, 2008
The Amor Fiery Steakhouse de Brazil in Mason abruptly closed March 14.

A sign on the door of the former Copeland's restaurant on Merten Drive said it would end operations effective immediately. Franchisor Al Copeland International, a New Orleans restaurateur, has not indicated whether it would reopen.

Amor de Brazil is a chain of Brazilian-style churrascarias. Its Web site, www.amordebrazil.com, now lists only one restaurant location in Overland Park, Kan.

Public relations agency Justice & Young was surprised at the news. The firm had just earned the steakhouse as a client March 4 and had met with the general manager as recently as March 12 to discuss plans for a large event.

"I have put the word out to corporate, but haven't heard a response," said account executive Jeff Drum. He said there was some discussion about the restaurant's inability to renew its lease for the property.

Amor was the first Brazilian churrascaria to open in the Greater Cincinnati area in 2006. Its standard menu offered 15 varieties of seasoned grilled meat and a wide spread of salads, cheeses and wines.

Another chain, Boi Na Braza, operates a churrascaria restaurant in downtown Cincinnati.

Perhaps the restaurant closed because the owner of the franchise passed away (see NYT headline below) and link to obituary.
Al Copeland, a Restaurateur Known for Spice and Speed, Dies at 64
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/25/business/25copeland.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=al+copeland&st=nyt&oref=slogin

quote:

Like Marge Schott used to say after she spent 30+ years reviewing car loan applications, "The Westside has the money, the Eastside has the bills."

ROFLOL I love this quote

quote:

Originally posted by Slogun

palacio azteca,

I drove past it once and it appeared to be closed. I just put in a phone call to them and the number seems to be disconnected. I will swing by there soon to make sure but I am nearly positive they are closed.

As far as the negative reviews about taqueria maya go, I can see someone having issues with the service, but not the authenticity. In my opinion the best way to know if a Mexican restaurant is authentic is to look at the clientele. I see lots of Mexicans there and to be honest not very many other places in Mason. Give it a try its worth the trip.

Thanks, I don't get up that way much but will try and make it by. FYI the best I can find down here is the little place in Newport, the name escapes me right now.

quote:

Originally posted by vudutu

quote:

Originally posted by Slogun

palacio azteca,

I drove past it once and it appeared to be closed. I just put in a phone call to them and the number seems to be disconnected. I will swing by there soon to make sure but I am nearly positive they are closed.

As far as the negative reviews about taqueria maya go, I can see someone having issues with the service, but not the authenticity. In my opinion the best way to know if a Mexican restaurant is authentic is to look at the clientele. I see lots of Mexicans there and to be honest not very many other places in Mason. Give it a try its worth the trip.

Thanks, I don't get up that way much but will try and make it by. FYI the best I can find down here is the little place in Newport, the name escapes me right now.

I know the one - La Mexicana Grocery and Taqueria - at 642 Monmouth Street, - has goat meat and an attached grocery store in the back, with entrances from Monmouth Street and the back parking lot - tons of chorizo in the meat case:

http://www.enquirer.com/editions/2002/03/20/tem_memories_of_mexico.html

Much to our surprise, the Ben & Jerry's in Clifton will close on March 31. We took my wife's family for dessert yesterday, and the entry sign said something to the effect of "get ice cream while you can." The manager blamed it on both the landlord and the economy, and said they have no plans to reopen or relocate at this time. Sad news for us, as we prefer them to Graeter's. I still haven't recovered from the Haagen-Dazs in Kenwood closing several years ago, either.

I too drove by Amor and saw that sign. I've not been to the downtown Brazilian place, but the online menu indicated some of the meats that we like at Amor are not available there (Parmesan pork, bacon-wrapped filet). Has anyone been to the downtown restaurant (I looked briefly through here and didn't see anyone's comments).

So we're thinking about trying this place in the Dayton Mall: http://www.cenarestaurant.com/

Has anyone tried it yet? I saw a couple of reviews, which were positive, and it did have both of those meats we like. Plus the price was about $28 each, vs. $45 at Amor.

quote:

Originally posted by Bonk

Has anyone been to the downtown restaurant (I looked briefly through here and didn't see anyone's comments).

Re: Boi Na Braza ~ Read the review here from 3/16/08.

http://rodeo.cincinnati.com/f2/dining/details.aspx?siteid=0&id=10806&lid=10937&cID=2

The one star review is the same that I got from a friend and her son. They thought most of the meat was tasteless, and they hardly ever saw the beef guys. On the hot side buffet was mashed potatoes, white rice and one hot veg. On the salad bar was lettuce and cold asparagus, but not much to put on the lettuce. She claimed she liked Golden Corral better, and it didn't cost $44. I haven't been, so this is all hearsay, but when I showed her the review from the above link, she was glad she was not alone in her opinion.