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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Cincinnati

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21 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Aperture restaurant
1. The Aperture
4.6
Exceptional(215)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Cincinnati
Booked 45 times today
The Aperture, the first full-scale restaurant project from Chef Jordan Anthony-Brown. The menu reflects the concept of Mediterranean mezze style dining, consisting of many small plates, rustic in nature and reflective of seasonality and creates a natural progression and flow for the dining experience. The Aperture’s menu reflects three fundamental tenets: intention, balance, and focus. The menu - and its individual dishes - are approached with the objective of putting critical thought into every component, eliminating the extraneous, and ensuring a natural flow across the menu. The culinary program is heavily influenced by the cuisine of the broader Mediterranean region and the simple, seasonal cooking of Southern France, Italy, Greece, and the Levant.Our menu changes often and with the seasons. You can always find our current menu on our website www.theaperturecinci.com.
A photo of Court Street Kitchen restaurant
2. Court Street Kitchen
4.8
Exceptional(148)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Central Business District
Booked 32 times today
Court Street Kitchen in Downtown Cincinnati captivates diners with its exceptional Fusion/Eclectic cuisine, masterfully blending old-world inspiration with modern culinary techniques. "Fabulous service and incredible food" is a common echo among patrons, with dishes like "fresh oysters" and "mushroom ragout" leaving a lasting impression. The menu is praised for its versatility and interesting choices, appealing to both adventurous eaters and those seeking comfort. With a vibrant atmosphere that includes a DJ-backed speakeasy experience and a unique "No Boys Allowed Brunch," CSK creates a dining culture that celebrates the good life, making it a must-visit spot for those seeking a dynamic culinary adventure.
A photo of Vintage on Race restaurant
3. Vintage on Race
4.0
Excellent(64)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Central Business District
Booked 9 times today
Vintage on Race, located in Cincinnati's Central Business District, is redefining the Gastro Pub experience with its eclectic mix of Classic American Fare and innovative culinary delights. This vibrant sports bar has become a "perfect spot to go before a Bengals game," offering a "wonderful atmosphere with great food." Patrons rave about the "delicious food and great service," making it an ideal destination for both casual dining and spirited gatherings. Guests are encouraged to indulge in the signature cocktails, which set a "new standard for quality" in the city's beverage scene. Whether you're there for a game or a date night, Vintage on Race ensures an unforgettable dining experience.
A photo of Mellotone Beer Project restaurant
4. Mellotone Beer Project
4.5
Awesome(48)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Over the Rhine
Booked 18 times today
Timelessly Cool. A modern take on the American brewery experience in Over-the-Rhine.
A photo of Sacred Beast Diner restaurant
5. Sacred Beast Diner
4.7
Exceptional(1834)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Over the Rhine
Booked 26 times today
Sacred Beast Diner in Cincinnati's vibrant Over the Rhine neighborhood is a must-visit for lovers of Contemporary French/American cuisine. Renowned for its "innovative food" and "spectacular" flavors, this gem offers a menu packed with modern twists on classic dishes. Diners rave about the "phenomenal lemon ricotta pancakes" and the "delicious chili crunch chicken," showcasing the restaurant's ability to blend French techniques with American comfort food. Sacred Beast's "impeccable service" and "fun atmosphere" further elevate the dining experience, making it a standout choice. With a reputation for "never disappointing" and "consistently yummy" offerings, it's a top destination in OTR.
A photo of Pennyflower Bistro and Bar restaurant
6. Pennyflower Bistro and Bar
new
4.2
Awesome(39)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Cincinnati
Booked 17 times today
Pennyflower Bistro and Bar is a contemporary American Bistro with a chic yet casual atmosphere. From Whipped Feta Toast to Chicken Schnitzel, to our signature Crispy Lasagna, the Pennyflower menu offers an eclectically comforting selection of bites. We are conveniently located in The Clair Hotel on the east side of downtown Cincinnati near to P&G headquarters and the Fountain District.We look forward to serving you!
A photo of Fourth & Walnut restaurant tavern restaurant
7. Fourth & Walnut restaurant tavern
4.3
Awesome(330)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Cincinnati
Booked 3 times today
Nestled in the heart of Cincinnati, Fourth & Walnut Restaurant and Tavern proudly offers a remarkable American dining experience that captures the city's rich culinary heritage. This gem stands out with its exceptional cuisine crafted from locally-sourced ingredients, reflecting the vibrant pulse of downtown. Diners rave about the "amazing food" and "phenomenal service," with standout dishes like the Duroc pork chop and grilled salmon leaving guests "still talking about how good it was." The warm, inviting atmosphere and exclusive house bourbon, Maker’s Mark Queen City 1788, create the perfect backdrop for memorable meals. Discover why this is "one of the best-kept secrets in DT Cincy!"
A photo of Losanti restaurant
8. Losanti
4.8
Exceptional(2647)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Over the Rhine
Booked 33 times today
Losanti, nestled in Over the Rhine, Cincinnati, is a beacon of Contemporary Italian cuisine, offering an experience that is both exquisite and authentic. As the only Boutique Italian Steakhouse in the area, it captivates diners with its from-scratch kitchen, where steaks are butchered daily, and fresh pasta is crafted in-house. The restaurant has garnered rave reviews, with patrons expressing delight over dishes that are "full of flavor and prepared to perfection," and a filet mignon that is "the best I've ever had." The meticulously executed cocktail program adds to the charm, making Losanti a must-visit for any food enthusiast.
A photo of 1931 restaurant
9. 1931
3.8
Excellent(435)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Cincinnati
Booked 7 times today
Nestled in the historic Hilton Netherland Plaza in Cincinnati, 1931 offers a Bar/Lounge/Bottle Service experience that is as sophisticated as it is unique. Step back in time with its art deco charm, where "the glamour and glitz make the visit memorable." Guests rave about the meticulously crafted cocktails, such as the "well-made Zappy Genever" and the refreshing "Lewd Lemonade," which perfectly complement the elegant ambiance. The attentive service is frequently highlighted, with patrons noting servers who "made us feel welcome" and provided "courteous, professional" interactions. Whether for a pre-event drink or a leisurely evening, 1931 ensures an unforgettable bar experience.
A photo of Somm Wine Bar restaurant
10. Somm Wine Bar
4.9
Exceptional(576)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Cincinnati
Booked 2 times today
Somm Wine Bar is a standout destination for authentic American cuisine in Cincinnati's Incline District. This beloved bistro delights patrons with its "great food, great wine and cocktails," offering a blend of fine dining and eclectic regional flavors. Guests rave about the "absolutely perfect" dishes, from delicate ravioli to impeccably cooked salmon, all served by a friendly and knowledgeable staff. The vibrant ambiance, enhanced by new age artwork and classic decor, makes for a memorable dining experience. With its acclaimed garden patio, live music, and unique events, Somm Wine Bar is a "hidden gem" that keeps diners coming back for more.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • DiannaVIP
    Cincinnati / Dayton •36 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Wow!! Aperture is yet another example of why Cincinnati is truly a foodie city. Very impressed with every not-so-little-detail Chef Jordan Anthony Brown put into this restaurant. The space is modern, yet intimate; the lighting is a perfect balance of mood and softness; even with a completely full restaurant, it was never loud; sitting next to the windows on a cold, rainy night, we never felt any temperature difference; the service from everyone was equally excellent, professional, friendly and attentive. Now, for the food. First, watching the chefs in the open kitchen was entertainment in itself. I could have watched this intimate look into the passion and precision of the preparing, creating, and plating each individual dish all night. Every dish we ordered was uniquely different in its presentation and flavor: simple, yet fresh, curious and delicious with combinations I have not previously encountered. The Fennel sausage pasta was perfect in its sauce distribution, flavor and al dente texture. The Stripped Bass delivered a flaky, crisp fish in an emulsion of light chowder-like sauce-Unexpectedly amazing. The simple fire-heated pita with the eggplant hummus was no less impressive. Thank you Chef Jordan Anthony Brown, and the people that work along side you to remind us how decadent and fun eating can be when made with love and dedication.
    More info
    The AperturePrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Cincinnati
    •
    4.6
  • Jessica
    Cincinnati / Dayton •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Our food and service were excellent! We ordered a little bit of everything including grilled and raw oysters, the chilli garlic prawns, arancini, salads, steaks, aragosta, risotto, green beans, wine, espresso martinis, olive oil cake, and tiramisu. Every single thing was to die for and I’d order it all again! The vibes were perfect for a Saturday night date night or even girls night out. We will definitely be returning again and again!
    More info
    Court Street KitchenPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Central Business District
    •
    4.8
  • susieVIP
    Cincinnati / Dayton •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Food was very good, wish they had more dinner menu items vs. sandwiches and burgers for their dinner menu. Favorite was short rib bone marrow. Drinks were good too.
    More info
    Pennyflower Bistro and BarPrice: Moderate• American• Cincinnati
    •
    4.2
  • Karen
    Cincinnati / Dayton •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Party of 6 for a birthday brunch. Service was excellent (Brittany). Food was delicious. Atmosphere 11/10. Beautiful place. Look forward to trying other dishes next time. Today our party had the chicken and waffles (large portion), breakfast smash burger, poutine and steak and polenta dish.
    More info
    Mellotone Beer ProjectPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Over the Rhine
    •
    4.5
  • Courtney
    Cincinnati / Dayton •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    I loved everything about it from the great food, cocktails & music playing!
    More info
    Vintage on RacePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Central Business District
    •
    4

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Cincinnati

Discover the vibrant and eclectic dining scene of Contemporary American cuisine in Cincinnati/Dayton, Cincinnati. Renowned for its fusion of traditional American flavors with modern culinary techniques, the region offers a variety of dining experiences that cater to every palate. Whether you're looking for locally sourced ingredients, innovative menu items, or a lively atmosphere, these restaurants are sure to provide an exceptional dining experience. From exquisite seafood and succulent steaks to creative vegetarian dishes, each establishment highlights the richness of American gastronomy with a contemporary twist. Patrons consistently praise the quality of the food, the impeccable service, and the inviting ambiance, making each meal a memorable event. The dining scene in Cincinnati/Dayton is a testament to the area's commitment to culinary excellence, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Whether you're a local or just visiting, these restaurants offer a unique taste of contemporary American culture right in the heart of Ohio.

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