Cincinnati, a city nestled along the Ohio River, offers more than just scenic views and a rich history; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to be discovered. This midwestern metropolis boasts a distinctive food culture shaped by generations of immigration, innovation, and a dedication to unique flavors. Forget everything you think you know about Midwestern cuisine. Cincinnati delivers a knockout punch of tastes that are wholly its own. From chili that defies definition to ice cream crafted with old-world techniques, Cincinnati provides an unforgettable dining experience. This article delves into the history, ingredients, and best places to savor the most iconic Cincinnati famous foods. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the Queen City’s culinary landscape!
Cincinnati Chili: More Than Just a Bowl of Red
Cincinnati chili is arguably the most famous, and most debated, dish to come out of the Queen City. It’s not your typical Texas chili, nor is it the meaty stew you might expect. Cincinnati chili is a unique, spiced meat sauce typically served over spaghetti, making it a true regional specialty. The magic of Cincinnati chili lies in its unusual blend of spices, often including cinnamon, cloves, chocolate, and allspice, creating a complex and slightly sweet flavor profile that distinguishes it from any other chili you might encounter.
But what truly sets Cincinnati chili apart is the “way” you order it. A “two-way” is chili served over spaghetti. A “three-way” adds a generous helping of shredded cheddar cheese. A “four-way” includes diced onions or kidney beans (depending on your preference), and the “five-way,” the ultimate Cincinnati chili experience, combines all the elements: chili, spaghetti, cheese, onions, and beans. The layering of these ingredients is part of the ritual, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that dance on your palate.
The history of Cincinnati chili is intertwined with the story of Macedonian immigrant brothers, John and Tom Kiradjieff, who, in opened Empress Chili, seeking to introduce flavors from their homeland to the American palate. They experimented with spices and recipes until they landed on the unique chili blend that would become a Cincinnati institution. Over time, other chili parlors emerged, each adding their spin on the classic recipe, but the essence of Cincinnati chili remained the same: a unique, spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti with a mountain of toppings.
Where can you experience this culinary phenomenon? Skyline Chili and Gold Star Chili are the two most prominent chains, battling for chili supremacy. Skyline, with its iconic coneys and distinctive flavor, has become synonymous with Cincinnati chili. Gold Star, another long-standing favorite, offers a slightly different spice profile and a loyal following of its own. Dixie Chili, with its family-friendly atmosphere and a slightly sweeter chili, has also carved out a devoted fanbase. For a more local, no-frills experience, Camp Washington Chili is a must-visit. This legendary chili parlor, open since , embodies the spirit of old Cincinnati, serving up steaming bowls of chili in a classic diner setting. Each chili parlor offers its own take on the recipe, ensuring that no two bowls of Cincinnati chili are exactly alike.
How do you properly eat Cincinnati chili? There’s no wrong way, but there are a few guidelines. Oyster crackers are a must, providing a satisfying crunch and a mild flavor that complements the richness of the chili. Hot sauce is also essential, allowing you to customize the heat level to your liking. Use a fork, not a spoon, to twirl the spaghetti and scoop up the chili, cheese, and other toppings. And be prepared to get a little messy – it’s all part of the experience.
Cincinnati chili is a love-it-or-hate-it kind of dish, and that’s part of its charm. Its unique flavor profile and unconventional presentation challenge culinary norms, sparking passionate opinions on both sides. But whether you’re a lifelong devotee or a curious newcomer, Cincinnati chili is a culinary experience you won’t soon forget. It’s a taste of Cincinnati’s history, its culture, and its unwavering dedication to doing things differently.
Goetta: A Cincinnati Breakfast Staple with German Roots
Move over, bacon and sausage; in Cincinnati, goetta reigns supreme. This hearty breakfast staple, pronounced “get-uh,” is a flavorful combination of ground meat (typically pork and beef), pinhead or steel-cut oats, and a blend of savory spices. Goetta is essentially a meat and grain sausage or pâté, with a texture that’s both creamy and slightly chewy. The oats provide a satisfying bite, while the meat and spices create a rich, savory flavor that’s both comforting and addictive.
Goetta traces its roots back to German immigrants who settled in the Cincinnati area in the th century. These immigrants, primarily from the Rhine region, sought to create a hearty and affordable dish using readily available ingredients. Oats, a staple in their homeland, were combined with scraps of meat and spices to create a filling and flavorful meal that sustained them through long days of labor. Over time, goetta evolved into the Cincinnati culinary icon it is today.
Where can you find this Cincinnati breakfast treasure? Many local butchers, grocery stores, and restaurants serve goetta. Queen City Sausage, a local institution, is renowned for its high-quality goetta, made with a generations-old recipe. Eckerlin Meats, another Cincinnati butcher shop, also offers a delicious version of goetta, crafted with premium ingredients and a commitment to traditional methods. Numerous restaurants throughout the city feature goetta on their breakfast menus, often serving it alongside eggs, toast, and other breakfast favorites.
How do you enjoy goetta? The most common preparation involves pan-frying or grilling slices of goetta until they’re golden brown and crispy. The crispy exterior gives way to a soft and flavorful interior, creating a delightful textural contrast. Goetta is often served with eggs, either scrambled or fried, making for a satisfying and protein-packed breakfast. Some people enjoy goetta with syrup, a sweet and savory combination that might sound unusual but is surprisingly delicious. Hot sauce is another popular condiment, adding a kick of heat to complement the richness of the goetta.
Goetta is more than just a breakfast food; it’s a symbol of Cincinnati’s German heritage and its culinary ingenuity. It’s a taste of home for many Cincinnatians, a comfort food that evokes memories of family breakfasts and traditions. It’s a testament to the city’s ability to embrace and adapt culinary influences from around the world, creating something truly unique and delicious.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: French Pot Perfection in the Queen City
No visit to Cincinnati is complete without indulging in a scoop (or three!) of Graeter’s Ice Cream. This local ice cream institution has been crafting decadent frozen treats since using the French Pot Process, a labor-intensive method that produces exceptionally creamy and flavorful ice cream. The French Pot Process involves slowly freezing the ice cream in small batches, resulting in a denser, smoother texture than mass-produced ice cream.
Graeter’s is perhaps most famous for its signature chocolate chips. These aren’t your average chips; they are enormous chunks of rich, dark chocolate that are added to the ice cream while it’s still in the freezing process. These chunks are often so big that they require a spoon to break them apart, creating a truly indulgent ice cream experience. Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip is arguably Graeter’s most iconic flavor, combining the tartness of black raspberries with the decadence of those giant chocolate chunks. Buckeye Blitz, a peanut butter and chocolate explosion, is another popular choice, paying homage to Ohio’s official state nut.
The Graeter’s story began with Louis C. Graeter, who started selling homemade ice cream from a street cart. The business grew, and the French Pot Process became the hallmark of their brand. Generations of the Graeter family have preserved the tradition and commitment to quality.
You can find Graeter’s locations throughout Cincinnati and beyond. The company has expanded, bringing its unique ice cream to a wider audience, but its commitment to the French Pot Process and high-quality ingredients remains unchanged.
Graeter’s Ice Cream isn’t just dessert; it’s a Cincinnati tradition. Its unique texture, flavorful combinations, and the satisfying crunch of those giant chocolate chunks make it a truly unforgettable ice cream experience.
Montgomery Inn Ribs: A Cincinnati Barbecue Legend
When talking about Cincinnati cuisine, one cannot forget Montgomery Inn and their famous ribs. Montgomery Inn ribs aren’t just barbecue, they are an institution. They’re known for their fall-off-the-bone tenderness and the Montgomery Inn Barbecue Sauce, a closely guarded family recipe that has become a local obsession. The sauce is sweet, tangy, and smoky, coating the ribs in a glossy glaze that’s both visually appealing and incredibly delicious.
These are baby back ribs, carefully smoked and then grilled to perfection. The Gregory family started this culinary destination. Their first restaurant was a small spot in Montgomery, Ohio, before their expansion to the banks of the Ohio River.
Montgomery Inn isn’t just about the food; it’s about the experience. The restaurants are known for their lively atmosphere, friendly service, and riverfront views (at the Boathouse location). It’s a place where families gather, friends celebrate, and everyone feels welcome.
Conclusion: A Taste of Cincinnati You Won’t Forget
Cincinnati’s culinary landscape is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From the unique flavors of Cincinnati chili to the hearty goodness of goetta, the creamy decadence of Graeter’s Ice Cream, and the irresistible ribs at Montgomery Inn, Cincinnati offers a culinary experience that’s unlike any other. These dishes are more than just food; they’re a part of Cincinnati’s history, its culture, and its identity. They are a testament to the city’s ability to embrace innovation while honoring tradition.
So, if you’re planning a visit to Cincinnati, be sure to come hungry. Explore Findlay Market, a historic public market brimming with local produce, meats, and cheeses. Venture into Over-the-Rhine, a revitalized neighborhood with a thriving restaurant scene. And most importantly, don’t leave without trying Cincinnati chili, goetta, Graeter’s Ice Cream, and Montgomery Inn Ribs. These are the culinary gems that define Cincinnati, and they’re waiting to be discovered. Come hungry and be prepared for a delicious adventure. This city is ready to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more of the unique Cincinnati famous foods.
