This guide covers 8 cocktail bar options in Cincinnati. Guests rate them 4.6 out of 5 on average. Most of them are spread across Over-The-Rhine, Central Business District, East Price Hill, so those are the areas to start with.

All Cocktail bar in Cincinnati

Veracruz Mexican Grill

4.4 1,268 reviews

Veracruz Mexican Grill is a vibrant dining destination that specializes in Mexican cuisine, offering a delightful culinary experience. It is celebrated for its visually appealing atmosphere, characterized by warm colors and inviting decor that create a welcoming environment. Customers frequently rave about the standout dishes, particularly the chicken fajitas and chicken fajita quesadilla, which are noted for their incredible flavor and freshness. Veracruz Mexican Grill is committed to quality, with many reviews highlighting the freshness of the ingredients and the care taken in preparation. The restaurant caters to diverse dietary preferences, offering a decent selection of vegetarian options and accommodating modifications for those seeking vegan dishes. The attentive service has garnered praise, with staff members recognized for their quick response times and friendliness, ensuring that customers feel valued and well taken care of. The restaurant's pricing is considered reasonable, particularly given the generous portions and the quality of the food. The restaurant offers a wide range of Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. Customers praise the freshness and flavor of the food, with many noting that the dishes are made with high-quality ingredients and prepared with care. The restaurant's atmosphere is welcoming and inviting, with a lively decor and a friendly staff that makes customers feel at home.

Opening hours
  • Monday11 AM–10 PM
  • Tuesday11 AM–10 PM
  • Wednesday11 AM–10 PM
  • Thursday11 AM–10 PM
  • Friday11 AM–11 PM
  • Saturday11 AM–11 PM
  • Sunday11 AM–9 PM

Symphony Hotel Bar & Lounge

4.5 549 reviews

The Symphony Hotel is a boutique hotel and cocktail bar located in a restored 1871 Italianate landmark directly across from Cincinnati Music Hall in historic Over-the-Rhine. It offers nine composer-themed guest rooms, each with antiques and musical artifacts to match. Guests can enjoy a five-course "Light French" menu at the on-site restaurant, which features premium spirits, seasonal ingredients, and infusions made in-house. The hotel also has a sophisticated bar and jazz lounge that hosts live jazz music on Fridays and Saturdays. The Symphony Hotel's nine guest rooms are named after great composers, including Mozart, Beethoven, and Amy Beach. Each room is furnished with antiques and musical artifacts to match its theme, and guests can enjoy a very good night's sleep in a comfortable queen-sized bed. The hotel also offers a rooftop deck with a gas fire pit and plenty of seating, as well as complimentary in-room snacks and bottled water. The Symphony Hotel is a short walk from the best of Over-the-Rhine, with concert halls, beer gardens, a 19th-century public market, and some of Cincinnati's best food and shopping. The Symphony Hotel is ideal for music and theater lovers, offering a front-row seat to the city's cultural offerings. Guests can enjoy a five-course dinner at the on-site restaurant, which features a "New American" cuisine that follows the new American health-conscious food trend. The hotel also offers a sophisticated bar and jazz lounge that hosts live jazz music on Fridays and Saturdays. With its unique blend of music, food, and history, the Symphony Hotel is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable stay in Cincinnati.

Rosie’s Italian

4.7 710 reviews

Rosie's Italian is a family-owned Italian-American restaurant located in downtown Cincinnati. It serves handmade pasta, scratch sauces, and Italian cocktails, and is open for dinner nightly from 4:30. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes, including antipasti, handmade pasta, secondi, and the parmigiana people drive in for. They also serve Negronis made properly, spritzes by the carafe, and a long shelf of amari. Chef Anthony Sitek and Haley Nutter-Sitek built Rosie's around their family dinner table, with fresh pasta, chicken parmesan, antipasti, and all the fixings. Rosie's is a great choice for special occasions and casual nights out, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff. The menu features a range of Italian influences, from light and shareable antipasti to rich, flavorful entrees like the Bistecca, a prime rib eye with Calabrian chili butter. The restaurant is also available for private events and catering, with options for trays of food and off-site catering.

Opening hours
  • Monday4:30–9 PM
  • Tuesday4:30–9 PM
  • Wednesday4:30–9 PM
  • Thursday4:30–9 PM
  • Friday4:30–10 PM
  • Saturday4:30–10 PM
  • Sunday4:30–9 PM

Pepp & Dolores

4.7 2,444 reviews

Pepp & Dolores is a casual Italian restaurant that specializes in housemade pastas, carefully curated wines, and a balance of cherished family recipes with fresh, vibrant flavors. The restaurant is inspired by the spirit and sense of hospitality experienced at Sunday supper in the home of the founders' grandparents. The menu features a variety of housemade pastas, with a focus on traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist. Pepp & Dolores is owned by the Thunderdome Restaurant Group and is located in Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati, Ohio. The restaurant is a labor of love for the Lanni brothers, Joe and John, who wanted to create a restaurant that pays homage to their family's heritage and traditions. The menu is designed to be made for sharing, with a focus on housemade pastas, fresh vegetables, and high-quality ingredients. The wine service is also noteworthy, with a selection of mostly Italian wines by the glass or bottle that can be navigated with the help of the knowledgeable staff. Pepp & Dolores offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere, with a warm and inviting decor. The restaurant is suitable for a variety of occasions, including anniversaries, weddings, and birthday parties. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the restaurant offers a unique and memorable dining experience. The restaurant is also suitable for takeout and delivery, and has a patio and bar seating area.

Opening hours
  • Monday4–10 PM
  • Tuesday4–10 PM
  • Wednesday4–10 PM
  • Thursday4–10 PM
  • Friday11 AM–11 PM
  • Saturday11 AM–11 PM
  • Sunday11 AM–10 PM

Homemakers Bar

4.7 284 reviews

HomeMakers Bar is a nationally recognized cocktail bar, eatery, and bottle shop that feels like a house party. It serves up classic and modern cocktails focusing on house-made ingredients, juice squeezed daily, aperitifs, and digestifs. HM celebrates community and giving-back. The bar offers a variety of drinks and events, including Spritzer Hour, which takes place on Wednesday to Friday from 4pm to 7pm, Saturday from 1pm to 4pm, and Sunday all day. On Tuesdays, High Lifes and pretzel sticks are available for $2, and there's a rotating rare whiskey for $8. The bar also hosts rotating events and a Third Thursday Jazz Night with no cover charge. In addition, HomeMakers Bar has outdoor seating available during warmer months, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or family. HomeMakers Bar is a welcoming and inclusive space, with a lively atmosphere and friendly staff. The bar is wheelchair accessible, and the menu offers a variety of options, including vegetarian-friendly food. The staff is attentive and dedicated to providing exceptional service, making every visit feel special. With its unique cocktails, delicious food, and fun atmosphere, HomeMakers Bar is a great spot for anyone looking for a memorable night out in Over-the-Rhine.

Opening hours
  • MondayClosed
  • Tuesday4 PM–12 AM
  • Wednesday4 PM–12 AM
  • Thursday4 PM–12 AM
  • Friday4 PM–2 AM
  • Saturday1 PM–2 AM
  • Sunday1–8 PM

Sacred Beast Diner OTR

4.5 1,473 reviews

Sacred Beast Diner is a modern diner located in the heart of Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati, and offers a variety of elevated comfort food dishes. The diner serves brunch, lunch, dinner, and late night, and has a casual, unpretentious atmosphere. The menu at Sacred Beast Diner features a range of creative twists on classic diner fare, including dishes like the "Dirty French" burger, which is served on a layer of hash brown potatoes instead of a bun. The diner also offers a variety of gluten-free options, including a dedicated gluten-free fryer, and has a knowledgeable staff that is well-trained in handling food allergies. Sacred Beast Diner has received positive reviews from diners with gluten intolerance and celiac disease, who have praised the diner's careful attention to food safety and the variety of gluten-free options available. Sacred Beast Diner has a lively atmosphere, with a modern vibe and a curated playlist of old-school jams. The diner is open late, making it a great option for diners looking for a late-night bite. With its creative menu, knowledgeable staff, and safe and welcoming atmosphere, Sacred Beast Diner is a great choice for diners looking for a unique and enjoyable dining experience.

Opening hours
  • MondayClosed
  • TuesdayClosed
  • Wednesday11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Friday11:30 AM–9 PM
  • Saturday10 AM–9 PM
  • Sunday10 AM–8 PM

Maplewood Kitchen and Bar

4.6 2,861 reviews

Maplewood Kitchen and Bar is a vibrant and inviting restaurant that offers delicious food bowls, efficient service, and a cool ambiance. The restaurant serves a variety of healthy, organic options including breakfast, brunch, and lunch items such as bowls, sandwiches, and pancakes. It has a bright, airy, and open atmosphere, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a West Coast feel. Maplewood Kitchen and Bar is a great choice for health-conscious diners and those looking for a casual yet sophisticated dining experience. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring organic and locally sourced ingredients, making it a favorite for families and visitors alike. With options ranging from delicious brunch items to unique breakfast dishes, Maplewood has become a beloved choice for both locals and travelers. The restaurant is conveniently located near riverside parks and is easily accessible by public transportation. The restaurant's menu includes a range of options, from healthy bowls to indulgent breakfast dishes. Maplewood Kitchen and Bar is a great spot for brunch, with options such as avocado toast, eggs benedict, and hash browns. The restaurant also offers a variety of gluten-free options, including chilaquiles and hash browns, and is willing to accommodate special requests and dietary needs. With its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and its welcoming atmosphere, Maplewood Kitchen and Bar is a great choice for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious meal in a vibrant and inviting setting.

Opening hours
  • Monday8 AM–3 PM
  • Tuesday8 AM–3 PM
  • Wednesday8 AM–3 PM
  • Thursday8 AM–3 PM
  • Friday8 AM–3 PM
  • Saturday8 AM–3 PM
  • Sunday8 AM–3 PM

The Davidson

4.6 415 reviews

Davison is a financial services company that provides personalized expertise with the strength to scale, guiding individuals and institutions through key moments. They offer a range of services, including investment banking, wealth management, and trust services. Davison also provides a domain hosting service called Davidson Domains, which offers students and faculty at Davidson College a personally-owned and managed internet presence. This service allows users to build a website where they control everything, from the look to the technology behind it. With Davidson Domains, users have the opportunity to create a domain of their own, which they can use for class projects, portfolios, or other digital endeavors. Additionally, Davison is a company that helps inventors turn their ideas into real products and mobile apps. They assist with idea and product development, marketing, design, and patent licensing. Davison's customers' products have included bakeware, pet supplies, health and wellness items, apps, and more. They work with inventors at all stages of the invention process, from idea development to pitching their product to companies.

Opening hours
  • Monday4–10 PM
  • Tuesday4–10 PM
  • Wednesday4–10 PM
  • Thursday4–10 PM
  • Friday11 AM–11 PM
  • Saturday11 AM–11 PM
  • Sunday11 AM–10 PM