Cincinnati is a city that is known for its diverse food culture. From German-inspired dishes to classic American fare, the city has a lot to offer. However, one cuisine that often gets overlooked is Creole food. Creole cuisine is a blend of African, French, Spanish, and Native American influences, and it is known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients. In this article, we will explore the Creole food scene in Cincinnati and highlight some of the best restaurants to try.
Creole cuisine is part of a larger family of cuisines known as Louisiana cuisine. Two other cuisines that are closely related to Creole food are Cajun cuisine and Soul food. While all three cuisines share some similarities, there are also some key differences. Cajun cuisine is known for its spicy flavors and use of ingredients like andouille sausage and crawfish. Soul food, on the other hand, is a cuisine that developed in the African American community and is known for its comfort food dishes like fried chicken and mac and cheese.
If you are a fan of bold flavors and unique ingredients, then you are in for a treat with Creole food in Cincinnati. From classic dishes like gumbo and jambalaya to lesser-known dishes like crawfish étouffée and boudin, there is something for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we will highlight some of the best Creole restaurants in Cincinnati and give you a taste of what to expect from this delicious cuisine. So, get ready to explore the flavors of Creole food in Cincinnati!
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
11975 Northwest Blvd Springdale
(513) 671-4473
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen Menu
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant for seafood lovers. The menu offers a wide variety of seafood dishes that are cooked to perfection. The seafood spinach dip, alligator, seafood pasta, gumbo, and shrimp and grits are some of the dishes that are highly recommended. The lobster is a must-try, as it comes out ready to eat with a huge claw. The vegetarian options are also available on the menu. The restaurant has a beautiful ambiance and the customer service is top-notch. The servers are attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. The complimentary strawberry cheesecake is a sweet touch for special occasions. The restaurant is popular, so it’s best to make reservations before the dinner crowd comes. The parking space is ample. The negative reviews are minor and can be overlooked. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is beautiful, and the customer service is great. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is highly recommended for a delightful dining experience.
Swampwater Grill
3742 Kellogg Ave Cincinnati
(513) 834-7067
Swampwater Grill Menu
Swampwater Grill is a must-visit restaurant in Cincinnati! The decor and antique mall attached to the restaurant make you feel like you’re on vacation. The service is prompt and attentive, and the food is top-notch. The menu has a large selection of dishes that you don’t normally see around here. The Tomahawk shrimp porkchop with swamp sauce is one of the best dishes you’ll ever have in your life. The ribs are tender and well-seasoned with a nice BBQ sauce, and the Sweetheart Ribs deal is fantastic with 4 sides to share. The smoked jalapeno poppers are a must-try, and the shrimp and grits are cooked perfectly. The drinks are strong, and the flavors are bold. If you need more bold, go back to the “Hot Sauce Wall” to find some hidden gems to spice it up. The prices are reasonable for the amount of food you get, and you will leave full and satisfied. The cloth dividers between booths provide a bit more privacy, and the staff is friendly. Even if you’re an hour away, it’s worth the trip to come here once a month.
BrewRiver Creole Kitchen
4632 Eastern Ave Cincinnati
(513) 861-2484
BrewRiver Creole Kitchen Menu
BrewRiver Creole Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for a great atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service. The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with live music daily that adds to the ambiance without being too loud. The portions are generous, and the food is made from scratch using locally sourced products, which you can taste in every bite.
The menu has a great selection of Creole favorites, and the healthy options are hard to find. The Jambalaya and Pasta Monica are must-try dishes, and the weekly special with salmon is incredible. The cocktails are delicious, but they can be a bit pricy.
The service is top-notch, with knowledgeable and friendly staff who give great advice on the menu. Even when the restaurant is busy, the staff still manages to provide excellent service.
While there are some negative reviews, the food is the star of the show at BrewRiver Creole Kitchen. The poutine, shrimp & grits, and pasta Monica are all amazing dishes that will knock your socks off. Even if the atmosphere isn’t perfect, the food is worth the visit.
Overall, BrewRiver Creole Kitchen is a fantastic restaurant that you should definitely check out. The food is delicious, the service is excellent, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends, BrewRiver Creole Kitchen is the perfect spot.
Knotty Pine On the Bayou
6302 Licking Pike Cold Spring
(859) 781-2200
Knotty Pine On the Bayou Menu
Knotty Pine On the Bayou is a hidden gem that offers a unique and pleasant environment for its customers. The menu is filled with a variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving. From the pan-seared sea bass to the Cajun sampler, the food is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The appetizers are a must-try, especially the frog legs, alligator bites, and stuffed jalapenos. The sautéed shrimp and crab cake appetizer are also highly recommended. The service is exceptional, with knowledgeable and kind staff who offer excellent recommendations. The bartenders are also fantastic, making some mean Voodoo Rum punch drinks. The atmosphere is casual, relaxed, and pleasant, making it the perfect spot for a date night or a night out with friends. Even though some negative reviews mention the absence of happy hour prices and a mix-up with an order, the overall experience is still worth it. The Knotty Pine On the Bayou is a must-visit restaurant that will leave you wanting more.
Allyn’s Cafe
3538 Columbia Pkwy Cincinnati
(513) 871-5779
Allyn’s Cafe Menu
Allyn’s Cafe is a hidden gem that offers a unique twist on bar food with their Cajun-inspired dishes. The seafood platter is a must-try, with blackened catfish, blackened shrimp, crayfish, hush puppies, and mac & cheese that will leave you wanting more. The Mardi Gras pasta is also a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with chicken and shrimp. Even the vegetarian options are outstanding, with vegan options available as standalone dishes. The cornbread is a standout, with a unique flavor that will make you want to order it on its own. The service is outstanding, with the staff going above and beyond to make sure their customers are happy. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for a night out with friends or a casual dinner with family. While there may have been some negative reviews, it’s important to note that everyone has different tastes and preferences. Allyn’s Cafe is definitely worth a visit, and we can’t wait to go back for more delicious food and great service.
Million’s Crab Boiled Seafood
7866 Tylersville Square Dr West Chester
(513) 644-9038
Million’s Crab Boiled Seafood Menu
Million’s Crab Boiled Seafood is a must-visit restaurant for seafood lovers. The restaurant may not have the most impressive exterior, but once you step inside, you’ll be greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu is filled with delicious seafood options that will leave you wanting more. The Mac and Cheese is a standout dish that is a must-try. The chicken fingers are also a great option for those who want something different. The seafood bags may not have a lot of food, but the taste is worth the price. The restaurant is also kid-friendly, making it a great place for families to enjoy a meal together.
The customer service at Million’s Crab Boiled Seafood is exceptional. The waitstaff, especially Georgia, go above and beyond to make sure that your dining experience is exceptional. Georgia is knowledgeable about the menu and is always willing to help you choose the perfect sauce for your seafood. The drinks are also amazing and are a great complement to the food.
While there may be some negative reviews, it’s important to note that the restaurant is constantly improving. The crayfish may not have been up to par in one review, but the other dishes are definitely worth trying. The restaurant is also accommodating to children of all ages, making it a great place for families to enjoy a meal together.
Overall, Million’s Crab Boiled Seafood is a great restaurant that is worth visiting. The food is delicious, the drinks are amazing, and the customer service is exceptional. Don’t let the exterior fool you, the interior is where the magic happens.
Crafty Crab Kenwood
7677 Montgomery Rd Cincinnati
(513) 407-8500
Crafty Crab Kenwood Menu
Crafty Crab Kenwood is a seafood restaurant that offers a variety of seafood boils and other dishes. Despite some negative reviews, the restaurant has some great dishes that are worth trying. Review 2 mentions that the seafood boil is solid and the service is quick and friendly. Review 3 mentions that the food was good and reasonably priced. Although the crab legs were difficult to eat due to the sauce, the price was still reasonable. Review 1 had a negative experience due to the restaurant opening late and the delivery truck blocking their car. However, it is important to note that the server was tipped over 25% despite the delay. Lastly, Review 4 had a bad experience with the catfish meal, but it is important to note that they were the first customers of the day and the restaurant may not have had a chance to clean up yet. Overall, Crafty Crab Kenwood is a great place to go for a seafood boil and other seafood dishes.
Personal Recommendation
Navigating Cincinnati’s rich tapestry of culinary delights, one can’t help but be drawn to the vibrant and bold flavors of Creole cuisine. Often overshadowed by the city’s German-inspired and classic American dishes, Creole food is a symphony of African, French, Spanish, and Native American influences. As you delve into the local food scene, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen stands out as a beacon for seafood aficionados. With dishes that are executed to perfection and an ambiance that exudes elegance and comfort, this establishment is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. From their seafood spinach dip to the sumptuous lobster, every dish tells a story of tradition, passion, and culinary excellence. The complimentary strawberry cheesecake adds a sweet note to any special occasion, making Pappadeaux not just a meal, but a memory waiting to be made.
Conclusion
In the heart of Cincinnati, amidst its renowned German and American culinary traditions, lies an unsung hero: Creole cuisine. This rich blend of African, French, Spanish, and Native American influences offers a flavorful escape that many might overlook in such a diverse city. But for those who venture into the world of gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée, a revelation awaits. Cincinnati’s Creole eateries, from the bustling ambiance of Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen to the unique offerings of Crafty Crab Kenwood, are a testament to the city’s ever-evolving gastronomic landscape. As you explore these hidden gems, each bite becomes a journey, taking you from the bayous of Louisiana to the bustling streets of Cincinnati, proving that the city’s food scene has more layers than meets the eye.
