Cincinnati is home to some of the best bars in the Midwest. From lively sports bars to cozy lounges, there’s something for everyone looking for a great time out.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax with friends or a lively bar with craft beer on tap, Cincinnati has it all.
The city’s downtown is teeming with nightlife options, from well-known breweries like MadTree Brewing to 16-Bit Bar + Arcade.
There is also Arnold’s Bar & Grill in Over-the-Rhine, one of the oldest taverns in the United States, dating back to 1861, and many other unique spots.
But with so many options, deciding where to spend your night out can take time. Fortunately, we have compiled a list of the best bars in Cincinnati Ohio.
These unique spots offer something for everyone, from traditional pubs to trendy rooftop lounges. Let’s get started!
Best Bars in Cincinnati, Ohio
1. MadTree Brewing
One of the best bars in Cincinnati is Mad Tree Brewing bar. This bar is situated in Cincinnati’s historic close to the Rhine District. This brewing houses Alcove bar, a bar with a cozy and perfect atmosphere for cocktails parties.
The bar serves home-crafted cocktails and a collection of wine lists ranging from domestic to imported white and red wines.
Apart from the drinks, Alcove’s spacious setting is another thing that attracts people to it. The bar has a full bar with good dining areas and a lounge that can accommodate small ad large groups of friends. Also, the bar has a greenhouse bar that is vibrant and lively.
From their cocktails list, we recommend you order Rosemary Spritz. This drik contains Aperol, bourbon, and sparkling wine. If you love wines, get a taste of Pinot Nori or Cabernet Sauvignon red wine.
MadTree Brewing is open Monday-Thursday from 4:00 pm-10:00 pm, Friday from 11:00 am-11:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am-11:00 pm, amd Sunday from 10:00 am-9:00 pm.
Address: 3301 Madison Road, Cincinnati, OH 45209. Phone: 513-836-8733
2, 16-Bit Bar+Arcade
Among the top bars in Cincinnati is 16-Bit Bar + Arcade. This bar is one of the packed bars with a nightlife scene and vintage arcade games. This bar serves over 23 home-crafted beers, cocktails, mocktails, whiskey, bourbon, and soda.
Aside from the drinks, the bar has a cozy and warm atmosphere and a perfect setting where you can play video games and other fun games. You can play games like Nintendo, Xbox, PlayStation, and over 50+ vintage arcade games.
We recommend Cheech Marin prepared with Reposado Tequila, lime, Agave nectar, and orange zest for cocktails. You can also try Pistaschid old fashion.
The bar is open Monday-Wednesday from 4:00 pm-12:30 am, Thursday from 4:00 pm-1:30 am, Friday from 4:00 pm-2:30 am, Saturday from 12:00 pm-2:30 am, and Sunday from 12:00 pm-12:30 am.
Address: 1124 Main St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-964-7746
3. The Blind Lemon
Situated near Findlay Market, the casual and laid-back atmosphere makes it a great place to spend an evening with friends.
With its signature drinks, delicious pub food, and friendly service staff, The Blind Lemon has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors.
The bar features twenty-five craft beers on tap and a variety of specialty cocktails, draft beers, and white and red wines. Whether you’re looking for something light or firm, there’s something on their menu that will suit your taste buds perfectly.
For those looking to satisfy their appetite while they enjoy their drinks, The Blind Lemon also offers vibrant live music.
We recommend LaMarca Prosecco. This drink contains fresh lime peel and crisp apples with tiny bubbles effervescent.
Tuesday-Thursday from 5:00 pm-12:00 am, Friday from 5:00 pm- 1:30 am, Saturday from 3:00 pm-1:30 am, Sunday from 3:00 pm-12:00 am, and closed Monday.
Address:936 Hatch St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-241-3885
4. Somerset Bar
Somerset is one of the popular drinking spots in Cincinnati, with two full bars. These bars are warm and cozy, perfect for indoor and outdoor parties and other ceremonial fun activities.
Over the years, Somerset has been renowned as a local spot where visitors get exotic relaxation and fun without paying through their noses.
They serve homemade cocktails, mocktails, and spirits. From their mocktail menu, we recommend you order the ziggy stardust. This drink contains pineapple syrup, lime, coconut milk, and hibiscus.
Address: 139 E McMicken Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-270-5982
5. Lost & Found OTR
Another fun bar in Cincinnatis worth visiting is Lost & Found OTR. This popular bar serves crafted cocktails, wine, and beers to customers. At this bar also, you can get modern artwork made by artists.
We recommend earthy and invigorating Calciferous’s cure. This contains old tom gin, Shisō, sake, lime, and ginger.
This bar is open Wednesday-Friday from 4:00 pm-7:00 pm and Saturday-Sunday from 2:00 pm-5:00 pm.
Address: 22 E 14th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-834-8441
6. Sundry and Vice
Sundry and Vice is one of the fun bars in Cincinnati, Ohio. Located in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, the bar has a unique atmosphere that captures the spirit of traditional Americana. It’s not just a place to grab a beer or cocktail; it’s an experience.
Sundry and Vice offers something exceptional for its patrons, from its vintage decor to its creative menu. The bar features an array of classic craft cocktails, some inventive creations inspired by seasonal flavors, and local ingredients sourced from Ohio farms.
There’s no shortage of selections for beer lovers – over two dozen rotating taps featuring everything from IPAs to stouts, lagers, and sours. Plus, plenty of wines are available for those looking for something different.
Another exciting thing about the bar is its small, cozy space. This Cincinnati bar is ideal for ending your night with a refined stop.
From their Cocktail menu, we recommend you try their new Magical Mystery, made with Strawberry Amaro, Lemon, egg, and Rye whiskey.
Address: 18 W 13th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-721-8423
7. Longfellow
Longfellow is a cozy and warm Cincinnati bar popularly known for serving crafted cocktails that tingle the taste buds of anyone who visits.
It is an establishment with a great atmosphere and serves up some of the best drinks in town. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, ensuring that everyone who comes through the door has a good time.
Longfellow is open Wednesday-Friday from 4:00 pm – 2:00 am and Saturdays-Sundays from 2:00 pm – 2:00 am.
Address: 1233 Clay St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-307-4379
8. Wódka Bar
You can make your spirit come alive with your favorite Wodka bar drink menu. Wódka bar in Cincinnati is known for its craft beers and delicious food.
This bar offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quiet night out with friends or want to enjoy some live music.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to get started on your night. There’s also a large outdoor patio where you can relax and enjoy the Cincinnati weather.
They serve cocktails, house flights, vodka, wines, and craft beers. We recommend Specialty Pierogi – Samosarogi, Borschtini, and Espresso MARTINI.
Wodka bar is open Thursday from 5:00 pm–10:00 pm, Friday-Saturday from 5:00 pm-11:00 pm, and Sunday from 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm.
Address: 1200 Main St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-381-3739
9. Homemakers Bar
Homemakers Bar is a must-visit spot in Cincinnati. This bar has a great atmosphere and excellent service. The bartenders are knowledgeable and friendly, making it easy to enjoy a good drink while chatting with friends.
The menu features plenty of variety, including cocktails, beers, and crafted wine that will make your taste bud tingle. They also have a comfortable and cozy atmosphere, perfect for hangouts and parties.
Whether you’re looking for a casual night out or something more formal, Homemakers Bar is the perfect place to spend time in Cincinnati.
Homemakers Bar is open Tuesday-Thursday from 4:00 pm-12:00 am, Friday from 4:00 pm-2:00 am, Saturday from 1:00 pm-2:00 am, Sunday from 1:00 pm-8:00 pm, and closed Monday.
Address: 39 E 13th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-394-7559
10. Low Spark
Among the top bars in Cincinnati is Low Spark. Low Spark is a cozy neighborhood full bar serving a collection of wines, beers, and handmade cocktails.
This bar, which stretches along Vine Street from Limehouse to Sycamore, caters to a young and urban population that appreciates good cocktails and lively atmospheres.
To keep up with demand, many Cincinnati bars have opened shops in the low spark district. You’ll find it here whether you’re looking for an intimate setting or a party atmosphere.
Their favorites include The Low Spark, The Phoenix Bar and Books, The Cincy Shaker, and Bourbon House Kitchen & Cocktails. We recommend you order Vicious Hook, Flying Dog Brewery, and Fruit Punch Sour.
Low Spark bar is open Monday-Sunday from 7:00 am-2:00 am.
Address: 15 W 14th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-371-5722
11. Neons Unplugged
Neons Unplugged bar is among the fun bars in Cincinnati in Over-the-Rhine city. This bar is famous for serving quality and crafted cocktails, beers, and imported wines. The bar also has quality spirits, liqueurs, scotches, vodka, gin, rum, and over 75 whiskeys.
Aside from these drinks, they also offer their customers a conducive environment and atmosphere featuring different game settings. Some games include Jenga games, live bands, and music that relaxes the mind and spirit.
Neons also have a restaurant that serves quality meals. The restaurant is also spacious ad perfect for outdoor parties and celebrations.
We recommend Epic Lil Brainless Raspberries and Jolly Pumpkin Dawn Obscura from Neons Unplugged’s extensive drink list.
Neons Unplugged bar is open Monday-Saturday from 5:30 pm-1:30 am, Wednesday from 6:00 pm-1:30 am, and Sunday from 6:00 pm-12:00 am.
Address: 208 E. 12th St. Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-827-9361
12. Ghost Baby
One of the must-visit Cincinnatis bars is Ghost Baby. The bar serves quality drinks and live music for relaxation and entertainment.
Are you looking for a fun night out with friends? Check out one of the cool bars in Cincinnati, Ohio – The Ghost Baby Bar!
This speakeasy-style bar features an eclectic mix of drinks and atmosphere, making it the perfect place to enjoy a good time with friends. They also serve cannolis, coffee, Rhines, and mocktails.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet drink after work or want to party all night long, The Ghost Baby Bar has something for everyone.
Ghost Baby is open Tuesday-Thursday from 5:00 pm-2:00 am and Friday-Saturday from 4:00 pm-2:00 am.
Address: 1314 Republic Street. Phone:(513) 381-5333
13. Mount Adams Pavilion
One of the fun spots to dance the night away and enjoy a drink with a view is Mount Adams Pavilion. This well-liked club is situated in the center of the vibrant Mount Adams entertainment district.
Four outdoor decks with a beautiful view of the Cincinnati cityscape are prominent features of this establishment. People come for happy hour because of the vista and the drink specials.
The vista is equally breathtaking at night when the city is fully illuminated. The three floors of Mount Adams Pavilion are slightly distinct from one another.
One of them is a well-liked location for dancing, particularly on the weekends; the dance floor starts to fill up around midnight. The weekends feature live music. Craft cocktails and frozen cocktails are available on the drink menu.
Address: 949 Pavilion St. Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-744-9200
14. Moerlein Lager House
The Moerlein Lager House bar in Cincinnati is one of the best bars in the city. Known for its unique atmosphere, guests can expect a modern yet rustic feel that pays homage to the city’s brewing history.
The menu features an impressive selection of craft beers, wine, and spirits. An extensive food menu includes classic pub favorites like burgers and fish-and-chips, along with more unique offerings such as smoked pork loin sandwiches and beer cheese soup.
The restaurant also hosts live music on certain nights, making it an excellent spot for a night out with friends or family.
On top of all that, Moerlein Lager House offers stunning views of the Ohio River from its outdoor patio and rooftop deck – perfect for enjoying a few drinks while watching the sunset over the water.
We recommend you order Red Ale – American Amber or Bay of Bengal Juicy Press Mango IPA from their draft beer list.
The bar is open Monday-Thursday from 11:00 am-10:00 pm, Friday from 11:00 am-11:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am-11:00 pm, and Sunday from 10:00 am-9:00 pm.
Address: 115 Joe Nuxhall Way Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-421-2337
15. Via Vita
The city of Cincinnati has become a hot spot for bar-goers and nightlifers alike. But, if you’re looking for the best of what the city offers when it comes to bars, look no further than Via Vita.
Located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, this unique establishment offers an upscale atmosphere with a modern ambiance that will draw in guests from all walks of life.
In addition to its stylish decor, Via Vita’s menu features an array of classic cocktails, wines, and craft beers on tap.
For those needing something more substantial than drinks, there is also a selection of small plates such as tacos, sliders, and other shareable bites, making it easy to enjoy dinner while out on the town.
The bar also hosts regular events, including trivia nights and live music, which add even more excitement to your evening out.
Via Vita is open Monday-Thursday from 4:00 pm-10:00 pm and Friday – Saturday from 4:00 pm-11:00 pm.
Address: 520 Vine Street Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: (513) 721-8483
16. Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar
If you are interested in Bourbon, Old Kentucky Bourbon bar is right for you. This bar was established in 2012 as the first bourbon bar in Northern Kentucky.
One exciting thing about this bar that attracts visitors most is its selection of drinks. This bar has an extensive collection of native spirits.
Also, the bar has over 700 different bourbons and 200 different American whiskeys. And they have knowledgeable bartenders who know a lot about whiskey and bourbon.
Although the bar serves major bourbons, they also have a comprehensive list of crafted cocktails, non-whiskey spirits, and beers locally made with natural ingredients.
You can have fun and even hang out with friends and loved ones here.
Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar is open Monday-Thursday from 4:00 pm-11:00 pm, Friday-Saturday from 2:00 pm-1:00 am, and Sunday from 2:00 pm-12:00 am.
Address: 629 Main St., Covington, Kentucky. Phone: (859) 581-1777
17. Abigal Street
The Abigal Street bar in Cincinnati is one of the city’s most well-known and best bars. Located downtown, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The bar has been around since 1985 and offers an extensive selection of craft beer, spirits, wines, cocktails, and more – all at competitive prices.
At Abigal Street, you will be served craft cocktails, bottles of beer, white wine on tap, red wine on tap, and white and sparkling glass pours.
On weekends, they often have live music or DJs playing sets late into the night, which makes it a great place to dance or sit back with friends and enjoy a cold one!
We recommend you order Bremen and white negroni made with rye whiskey, cognac, tawny port, verjus rouge, and angostura.
Abigal Street bar is open Tuesday – Thursday from 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Friday – Saturday from 5:00 pm – 11:00 pm, and closed Sunday-Monday.
Address: 1214 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Phone: 513-421-4040
18. Arnold’s Bar and Grill
Are you looking for a vibrant drinking spot to chill? Arnold’s bar and grill are worth checking out. This bar is one of the best bars in downtown Cincinnati.
You can taste great drinks in a relaxed and warm environment at this bar. Also, they have a vibrant and cozy atmosphere perfect for lovers’ hangouts and romantic dates.
Another thing the bar prides itself on is its live music scene. They also give live music that will make you return once you visit.
Address: 210 E 8th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States. Phone: +1 513-421-6234
19. HalfCut
HalfCut bar in Cincinnati is earning a reputation for being one of the best bars in the city. Located in the heart of downtown, HalfCut offers an inviting atmosphere with plenty of craft beers, cocktails, and delicious food.
Customers love that they can grab a drink and snack before heading to their next activity or as an after-work gathering spot with friends.
HalfCut has become known for its innovative craft beer selection, which features 24 rotating taps that offer local and regional drafts.
The bar also serves up creative cocktails like the Prohibition Old Fashioned and Peachy Keen Margarita that pair perfectly with their shareable snacks like Thai-inspired pork dumplings or crispy chicken wings.
They are passionate about supporting local businesses by featuring seasonal ingredients from local farms and producers on their menus.
Try their Bell’s Oarsman Ale, Christian Moerlein Mexican Lime Lager, and North Coast PranQster.
HalfCut bar is open Tuesday – Thursday from 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Friday-Saturday from 12:00 pm – 1:00 am, and Sunday from 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
Address: HalfCut, 1128 Walnut St., Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, Phone: +1 513 381 1952
20. The Eagle Food and Beer Hall
The Eagle Food and Beer Hall bar in Cincinnati is one of the best bars in the city.
Located in the city’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, this cozy bar has a unique atmosphere that will have you coming back again and again.
Its rustic decor, warm lighting, and friendly staff have become a favorite among locals and tourists.
The beer selection at The Eagle is unparalleled, offering a wide variety of craft brews on tap and ciders, IPAs, lagers, pilsners, and more.
They also have an extensive wine list with both local and international varieties to choose from.
We recommend Blackberry Fashioned, made with four roses, a single barrel, pepper ginger bitters, gran marnier, and maple.
This bar is open Monday-Thursday from 4:00 pm-11:00 pm, Friday-Saturday from 11:00 am-12:00 am, and Sunday from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.
Address: 1342 Vine St. Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. Phone: 513-802-5007
21. Incline Public House
Finally, Incline Public House is on our list of cool bars in Cincinnati. Incline Public House serves a bottle-and-tap hand-crafted beer collection, crafted cocktails, fresh juices, and a wine list.
Aside from drinks, the bar also serves quality meals and snacks prepared with natural ingredients, like sandwiches, pizzas, and salads.
From the drink list, we recommend you order Blood Orange Blonde Ale or German-Irish Lager.
Incline Public House is open Sunday from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm, Monday-Thursday from 11:00 am-10:00 pm, and Friday-Saturday from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.
Address: 2601 W 8TH Street. Cincinnati, OH 45204. Phone: 513-251-3000
Also, check out our guide on the best bars in Tallahassee for a fun time in Florida
Have Fun!
Cincinnati is an excellent city for bar hopping. It offers a wide range of options, from craft beer bars to whiskey lounges, hipster dives, to chic cocktail bars.
There’s something for everyone in Cincinnati, and its nightlife scene is sure to please. Whether you’re looking for a place to sip on craft beers or indulge in cocktails with your friends, many excellent bars will satisfy your cravings.