Drees Pavilion at Devou Park

Cincinnati Marriott-Rivercenter

Courtyard by Marriott

Ambar India Restaurant

If you close your eyes with the first bite of this expertly prepared Indian cuisine, you may think you have been transported to India itself. Food is authentic and spiced according to your comfort level (1-6 levels). Start with generous portions of appetizers such as veggie pakoras. Entrees vary from chicken Tandoori to lamb curry. Ask for the chutney selections to compliment your selections. Atmosphere is casual, and the service is friendly and fast. Casual dress.

Arnold's Bar & Grill

At this spot, you kind of expect Jimmy Olsen to walk in, accompanied by Lois Lane. Lots of reporters and courthouse types hang out at Arnold's Bar and Grill. Originally built in 1861, it's the oldest "saloon" in the city. This historic eatery serves Italian-American fare at great prices. Live music several nights a week. Casual attire.

Biagio's Bistro

This small bistro is located on trendy Ludlow Street. The aroma draws you in, and the menu makes you stay. The chef has five burners in full view, preparing dishes while chatting with you in between orders. The menu choices range from fettuccine and penne boschiola to chicken scaloppini. The tiramisu is great for dessert. Reservations suggested. Dress is business casual.

Busken Bakery

This full service catering establishment has been serving luscious items from their full-line bakery since 1928 – pastries, cakes and pies, as well as some of the hottest and freshest donuts in the city. Busken Bakery is guaranteed to deliver the goods – fresh. Service is excellent, and food is superb.

Celestial Restaurant

The name of this dining heaven couldn't be more appropriate. Located high atop Mount Adams, this spot affords the best view of Cincinnati. This is the place to go for those special times! A French menu serving New Continental cuisine with a few American spins. Restrained service, pristine linens and dark, paneled wood make for an overall formal experience. Specialties include Kobe beef steaks, sesame-orange crusted sea bass, and desserts such as chilled lime souffle. Reservations essential.

China Gourmet

The name sounds like most any other Chinese restaurant, but the food is anything but ordinary. Cincinnati locals swear this is the best Chinese food in the city. Known for the freshest seafood, traditional Cantonese cuisine and several spicy Szechwan specialties, the China Gourmet will satisfy that unmistakable yen for Oriental fare. Reservations suggested on the weekends. Dress is casual.

Daveed's at 934

Colorful artwork, an intimate dining room, and extra-attentive service characterize this eatery. An eclectic menu samples international flavors while focusing on traditional American dishes. Highlights include a honey-chipotle grilled lamb T-bone and chop, balsamic-marinated flank steak, and Maine lobster salad with spiced Asian pear. Wine parings for each entree are provided. Call several days in advance to arrange a personalized tasting menu perfect for a special-occasion dinner. For an unusual and delicious dessert, sample apple, goat cheese, and rosemary creme brulee.

Dee Felice Cafe

Diners get a distinct New Orleans feel with a live band of fine jazz musicians that play almost every night at this popular dining spot. Selections of Cajun specialties include jambalaya and crawfish etoufee, but the real winners are Halibut Fortee, sauteed in lobster butter and garlic seasoned oysters. This place is not to be missed! Business casual attire.

Dewey's Pizza

A local tradition, Dewey's makes amazing pizza. Ali has come to love it and I'm sur