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17 Best Brunch Restaurants in Cincinnati

Cincinnati, known as the Queen City of the West, has a broad and rich past, which is reflected in its gastronomic offerings. This energetic city is a sanctuary for brunch lovers, despite being well-known for its famous chili and historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Cincinnati’s brunch scene delivers a fascinating culinary adventure for every palette, from opulent buffets in sophisticated settings to intimate, hidden gems with artisanal choices. The city’s brunch venues are evidence of its culinary dynamism, regardless of your preference for modern fusion meals, cosmopolitan flavors, or old American favorites. One thing is certain on weekend mornings in Cincinnati: brunch is more than just a meal here. With lines of enthusiastic foodies and the smell of freshly brewed coffee filling the air, brunch is an experience.


Maplewood Kitchen and Bar

525 Race St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-421-2100
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Maplewood Kitchen and Bar
Source: Maplewood Kitchen and Bar

The Maplewood Kitchen and Bar is a spacious, bright, and airy cafe serving Californian fare for breakfast, brunch, and lunch amidst maple hardwood tables and green scenery. The eatery is in downtown Cincinnati near the Contemporary Arts Center. The vibes are casual, and the decor is modern and inviting. At Maplewood Kitchen and Bar, it’s all about using fresh and organic ingredients to bring guests the highest quality dishes possible. They also have cold-pressed juices made in-house, as well as handcrafted cocktails, and a full-service espresso and coffee bar. Locals say this restaurant has the best brunch in Cincinnati. The Maplewood Omelet with bell pepper, onion, country Ham, jalapeno, and goat cheese comes highly recommended, along with the Applewood-smoked bacon. Other popular sides are the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes, Hash Browns, and the House Sausage Patty. Don’t forget the classic brunch cocktails like the Mimosa, Bloody Mary, and the Aperol Spritz.


Sleepy Bee Cafe

Multiple locations
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Sleepy Bee Cafe
Source: Sleepy Bee Cafe

The Sleepy Bee Cafe is a hipster-style eatery that offers an educational experience on eating healthy and maintaining sustainable food practices. The layout is an open dining room concept, and the local art on the wall is a nice touch. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy a quality brunch with phenomenal service and a diverse menu. Whether you want vegan and vegetarian options or you want to indulge, there’s something for everyone at the Sleepy Bee. The most popular brunch dishes are the Blueberry Pancakes with fresh maple syrup, a Chorizo Omelet, and the Hot Honey Quinoa Bowl. A good option to pair with your meal is their tasty Mimosa with fresh-squeezed juice or a Vanilla Latte if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.


HangOverEasy

13 W Charlton St, Cincinnati, OH 45219
Phone: 513-221-5400
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HangOverEasy
Source: HangOverEasy

HangOverEasy is near the University of Cincinnati, a favorite of students, locals, and visitors to the city. The diner is a trendy, laid-back spot with outdoor patio seating and a full bar. The brunch menu consists of French Toast, burgers, omelets, sandwiches, beer, and cocktails. The service is what you’d expect from a campus-style restaurant, upbeat and quick, and the food is delicious. Our favorite dishes on the menu are the Breakfast Quesadilla, the Reuben, and the Sausage Skillet. The food is fresh and hot, and you have to try the famous HOE fries that come with all the egg dishes. Top off your meal with a Rainbow Mimosa or a Bloody Mary.


Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey

Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey
Source: Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey

1201 Broadway St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-381-2666
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Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey is waiting with a warm welcome and a modern twist on American frontier fare. The eatery is in Over-The-Rhine near the Hard Rock Casino. The decor is rustic and inviting, and it’s a delightful experience, from the service to the staple comfort foods. One unique aspect of this restaurant is the chef, Christian Gill, who has won the Ultimate Thanksgiving Challenge on the Food Network. You can definitely understand how and why he won as soon as you take your first few bites of whatever you order. The flavors are pronounced, and the food tastes amazing. The biscuit appetizer features flakey, fluffy biscuits with a wide selection of butter and jams. The Oregon Trail is an excellent brunch option, with sweet potatoes and kale. They have seasonal and specialty Mimosas like the House Mimosa, the Holiday Mimosa, and the Mimosa of the Moment. There is also the Ghost Cider and the Boomtown Bloody.

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Taste of Belgium

Multiple locations
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Taste of Belgium
Source: Taste of Belgium

Stop by Taste of Belgium for top-tier omelets, crepes, waffles, and other brunch specialties inspired by Belgian cuisine. They take Belgian recipes and add an American twist to create unique dishes with explosive flavors. Their weekend brunch is spectacular, so much so, that the huge and airy waffles were on Diners, Drive-ins & Dives. The Taste of Belgium is quickly becoming a Cincinnati staple, known for unlikely combinations and delightful flavors. Based on reviews, the Chicken and Waffles is a delectable dish, with crispy juicy chicken and moderately sweet waffles. So, the Carbonnades Poutine and the Pig and Fig Galette are excellent brunch options. Pair it with a Coffee Amaretto, Bellini, or a Beer-Mosa.


The Echo

3510 Edwards Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45208
Phone: 513-321-2816
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The Echo
Source: The Echo

The Echo is a neighborhood staple in the Hyde Park area, near the Cincinnati Country Club. This restaurant offers sizable portions of refined comfort foods, and they have a full-service bar. The staff is helpful and friendly, always willing to make suggestions for first-timers. You also seem to get your food pretty quickly, and the ambiance is cozy and pleasant.You’ll enjoy the Eggs Benedict on Crab cakes, the Breakfast Burrito, the Corned Beef Hash, and the Flying Pig Sandwich. The best brunch cocktails are the Salty Bloody Mary, the Irish Coffee, and the Mimosa Pitcher. Everything on the menu is fresh and the flavors are deep. It’s a great brunch spot if you’re in the city.


Otto’s

521 Main St, Covington, KY 41011
Phone: 859-491-6678
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Otto's
Source: Otto’s

Otto’s is a sophisticated American bistro that serves Southern dishes near Goebel Park in the middle of Covington’s Mainstrasse. The setting is intimate, the staff is courteous, and the Sunday brunch is the perfect end to your week. Otto’s is known for their fried green tomatoes and for good reason. This is one of our favorite eateries on the list because you get classic comfort foods with an upscale twist. The Steak Burrito and the French Toast were both really good, as the steak was well-seasoned and tender, and the French Toast was fluffy and thick. Don’t miss out on the Breakfast Casserole, Shrimp and Grits, and their yummy Bloody Mary, Mimosa, or Sweet Iced Tea to complement the meal.


Sugar n’ Spice Diner

4381 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45229
Phone: 513-242-3521
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Sugar n' Spice Diner
Source: Sugar n’ Spice Diner

Sugar n’ Spice Diner is in Paddock Hills, and they’ve been serving the Cincinnati area since the 1940s. The low-key breakfast joint is memorable, not only because of the homemade meals but because of the bright colors and cartoon murals decorating the walls. If you want some of the best brunches in Cincinnati while kicking back in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, drop by Sugar n’ Spice. Their fluffy and huge omelets and thin, wispy pancakes are the talks of the town, along with other eclectic dishes like the Cuddlin’ Puppy. The clientele is diverse, and you can always strike up a nice convo over brunch with the servers or the table nearby. It seems like everyone feels like family here, and they make you feel at home. The Banana Pancakes and Eggs or the Philly Omelet with a Sugar n Spice Coffee or a Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream.

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Crown Republic Gastropub

720 Sycamore St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-246-4272
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Crown Republic Gastropub
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Crown Republic Gastropub is a neighborhood staple in Cincinnati. CRG is the destination for good brunch eats, with both comfort and elegant cuisine being prominent on the varied menu. The interior is modern-chic, and the atmosphere is inviting. The staff is also friendly and attentive. This is a casual establishment that serves New American and homestyle cuisine. The food is divine and it never gets old no matter how many times you’ve had it. They serve brunch throughout the week, and they’re always adding new items to the menu. They may have the fluffiest eggs and pancakes you’ve ever tasted! The signature Mimosa and Martini cocktails went perfectly with the food as well. Definitely a great start to the day.


The Baker’s Table

1004 Monmouth St, Newport, KY 41071
Phone: 859-261-1941
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The Baker's Table
Source: Instagram

The Baker’s Table is right across the bridge from Cincinnati to Kentucky, and it takes almost no time to get there. Once you arrive, get ready to dig into some rustic and seasonal cuisine in a lovely and vintage atmosphere. The Baker’s Table was named “One of the Best New Restaurants in America” by USA Today. And once you step in to experience all that this place has to offer, you’ll quickly see why they’re held in such high regard. They provide excellent service and high-quality food. Stop by the next time you’re in the neighborhood to try one of their many delicious brunch dishes, such as the Fried Chicken Sammy, the Eggs Benedict, the Banana Pancakes, or the Avocado Toast.


The National Exemplar

6880 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45227
Phone: 513-271-2103
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The National Exemplar
Source: The National Exemplar

The National Exemplar is quite easy to locate, you’ll find it too far from a Starbucks. The casual and rustic decor coupled with the upbeat service makes for an exceptional dining experience. You see a nice mix of people when you visit, and it’s never too busy or too crowded, but everyone seems friendly, like family. At the National Exemplar, you can chow down on delicious American-style cuisine made from the heart. And if brunch is what you came for, then you won’t be disappointed thanks to yummy dishes like the Avocado Egg Omelet or the rich in Lemon Ricotta Pancakes. If you’re in the neighborhood, grab a bite at the National Exemplar and you won’t regret it!


First Watch

Multiple locations
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First Watch
Source: First Watch

First Watch has taken its act all over the town, and you can find them scattered all across the greater Cincinnati area. If you happen to be a breakfast person, then First Watch has to be on your list of priorities to visit. Brunch is done the right way at First Watch. There’s something there for everyone, even for those who are conscientious about their health. The food is healthy, delicious, and fresh. You absolutely have to try Eggs Benedict, which is chock full of flavor, and the eggs are always perfect. If you’re a bit on the hungry side, we recommend the delicious and filling Farmhouse Skillet Hash.


French Crust Bistro & Cafe

1801 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-455-3720
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French Crust Bistro & Cafe
Source: French Crust Bistro & Cafe

The French Crust Bistro & Cafe is not too far from Findlay Kitchen, just a few blocks away. Sometimes you need to kickstart your day the right way, and the French Crust Bistro is a great spot to gather with friends and family. Drop by for all your brunch and pastry needs. The atmosphere is upscale yet easygoing, and the service is fast. The locals say the Croissant with Salmon tastes incredible, as it’s flakey and buttery with well-seasoned Salmon. Or, you could go for the ever-popular short ribs along with their many delicious sweets. Grab a cocktail while you wait, the bartenders are great with suggestions!


Salazar Cincinnati

1401 Republic St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-621-7000
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Salazar Cincinnati
Source: Salazar Cincinnati

Salazar is one of the best eateries that you can find in OTR (Over the Rhine). Serving up American-style cuisine, Salazar simply does not disappoint. From brunch, lunch, to dinner, this eatery has it all. What I liked best, is how diverse the menu is. Also, the servers will help you find what you might like if it’s your first time dining at Salazar. You can choose a rich and comforting dish such as the Little Fried Oyster sandwich, or you could go fresh and light and order Scallops with a fresh Arugula salad. No matter which dish you choose, you’re guaranteed freshness, flavor, and huge portion size.


Pleasantry

118 W 15th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-381-1969
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Pleasantry
Source: Pleasantry

Pleasantry is close by Taft’s Ale House, near downtown Cincinnati. It’s unassuming from the outside, but that has no bearing on the excellent food quality. Pleasantry features an outside seating area that is spacious with a nice view. Stop by and enjoy the small, intimate, and cozy atmosphere which distinguishes this eatery from the rest. The Quiche is light and fluffy and goes great with an Espresso Martini. They also have other brunch cocktails and coffee drinks available. Their signature dishes are the Avocado Toast with Watermelon, the Roasted Cauliflower, Poached Shrimp, and the Fried Olives with Smoked Bleu Cheese. Delish!


B&A Street Kitchen

1500 Race St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-345-6670
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B&A Street Kitchen
Source: B&A Street Kitchen

The B&A Street Kitchen is very close to Pleasantry, along the same road. However, B&A Street Kitchen specializes in Tex-Mex and Southern flavors. You’ll enjoy trying out some of the awesome and creative flavors that this establishment has to offer. They pride themselves on bringing people together, over dishes made from scratch and impeccable hospitality. Don’t pass up on the Breakfast Taco, Southwestern Omelet, and the Huevos Rancheros. The AM Burrito Grande and the Churros Pancakes also receive high marks amongst locals and visitors to the city. They also have a kid’s menu for families with the kiddos in tow. This unique assortment of dishes is sure to make any foodie’s day.


Sacred Beast Diner OTR

1437 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-213-2864
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Source: Sacred Beast Diner OTR

The Sacred Beast Diner OTR finishes off our list of delightful brunch spots to visit in Cincinnati. It’s a couple blocks north of Washington Park. The trend continues with the Sacred Beast Diner OTR with their delicious food and courteous staff. They serve breakfast all day, so you can always go in and experience a hearty brunch with refreshing cocktails. The best reviews always mention the Cheesy Eggs, Corned Beef Hash, their signature Diner Breakfast, and the Bloody Mary. My personal favorite was the Apple Chai Gin and Tonic, which was uniquely tasty. Everyone should try the Shishito Peppers and Maple Glazed Pork Belly if you want something packed with flavor in a satisfying portion size.


Cincinnati is a bustling city with a lot to see and do. Finding good brunch spots is easy to do because there are a lot of great eateries sprinkled around the city.

Hopefully, you got some good suggestions to assist you while you’re enjoying brunch in the Nati.

Did we leave a restaurant out of this list? Make sure you leave us a comment and we’ll check it out!

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

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