When the parents come into town, whether strictly to visit or go sight-seeing, it would be fun to take them to a favorite local spot for a good meal. You don't have to go all-out and break the bank, either. From bistros to brewhouses, here are some options around town.
Restaurants to take the 'rents
Parents in town? Time to treat
By Amy Schoenfeld
Special to MetromixSeptember 11, 2009
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Pomodori's Pizzeria
121 W. McMillan St. - Cincinnati513-861-0080
UC students or Clifton-area residents could treat their parents to some wood-fired, gourmet pizza at Pomodori's. This sit-down Italian-American restaurant across from the University is a bit classier than your average pizza joint, but still stays casual. The thick, doughy crust will fill you up but the prices won't kill your wallet. Maybe your parents will chip in for some sweet apple pizza for dessert. Mmmm.
Indigo Casual Gourmet Cafe
2637 Erie Ave. -
Cincinnati
513-321-9952
Indigo's cozy tables have some of the best views of Hyde Park Square, and makes for a great cafe-style place to treat your parents after walking around the Square. Nab a seat on the patio and enjoy American gourmet fare with vegetarian options. You could even be both thifty and classy by treating them to a bottle of wine, half-price on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Cactus Pear Southwest Bistro
9500 Kenwood Road - Blue Ash513-791-4424
Maybe it's a Mexican night for you and the 'rents. There are two locations of Cactus Pear, one on Jefferson Avenue near UC and the other on Kenwood Road in Blue Ash Head. Definitely try to nab a spot outside, then dip into some fresh salsa, order hearty Mexican cuisine and sip some margaritas.
Marcello's Bistro & Bar
1960 N. Bend Road - Hebron859-689-9700
If your parents are craving homemade Italian, take them to upscale Marcello's for a pasta dinner, seafood, steak or their specialty, veal. Their visit might be a special occasion, so pair the meal with some French or Italian wine.
The Pub at Crestview Hills
2853 Dixie Highway - Crestview Hills859-426-7827
If your parents are trivia junkies - or at least super competitive - look no further than The Pub at Crestview Hills. Over Shepherd's pie, fish 'n' chips and an English draft beer, rack your brains over, gosh, what IS the name of that 80s movie? Win prizes and major bragging rights.
Pompilios Restaurant
600 Washington Ave. -
Newport
859-581-3065
Parents coming in for a Bengals game? Check out Pompilios for a pre- or -post game meal of hearty, authentic Italian specialties. Try the ever-popular homemade lasagna, homemade raviloli or pasta with lots of sauce options to choose from. If you all can't decide, split the classic Italian sample with favorites like Italian sausage and lasagna. Remember to tell your parents that a "Rain Main" scene was filmed here (the one when Dustin Hoffman's character knows the number of toothpicks dropped on the floor). They'll be so impressed.
Hofbrauhaus
200 E. Third St. -
Newport
859-491-7200
If your parents have German heritage or just enjoy some good German bier, take them to the Hofbrauhaus for an authentic experience...not complete without some dancing on the table benches to a live band. C'mon, they'll love it.
Bootsy's
631 Walnut Street -
Cincinnati
513-241-0707
Any one of Jeff Ruby's restaurants would be a great place to treat your parents to a nice, sit-down dinner (bonus if they're steak lovers). Bootsy's is a fun option because while some of the menu is on the more expensive side, you could simply order several different tapas, or small plates, and get a variety of tastes for a lower price.
