Introduction
Cincinnati, a city nestled on the Ohio River, is more than just a hub for business and culture; it’s a melting pot of culinary traditions that have evolved over generations. While the Queen City boasts a diverse restaurant scene, certain dishes have transcended mere sustenance to become symbols of the city itself. These iconic foods of Cincinnati offer a tangible taste of its rich history and cultural influences, providing an edible narrative that’s both comforting and uniquely Cincinnati. Prepare your taste buds for an adventure as we delve into the must-try foods that define Cincinnati’s culinary landscape.
The Enigmatic Cincinnati Chili
No discussion of Cincinnati cuisine is complete without acknowledging its most controversial and celebrated creation: Cincinnati chili. Far from the Tex-Mex chili that most Americans are familiar with, Cincinnati chili is a unique concoction with roots in Greek immigrant entrepreneurship. Its thin, slightly sweet, and subtly spiced flavor profile is unlike anything else you’ll encounter. The secret lies in the blend of spices, which often includes cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and even a hint of chocolate. And remarkably, it typically omits beans.
The “Ways” of Cincinnati Chili
The true Cincinnati chili experience lies in “the ways.” This refers to the manner in which the chili is served over spaghetti:
- Three-Way: Spaghetti topped with chili and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Four-Way: Spaghetti, chili, cheese, and diced onions.
- Five-Way: Spaghetti, chili, cheese, onions, and kidney beans.
Cincinnati Chili Parlors and History
Venturing into a Cincinnati chili parlor is a quintessential Cincinnati experience. Establishments like Skyline Chili and Gold Star Chili are local institutions, known for their coneys (hot dogs smothered in chili, mustard, and onions) and, of course, their various chili “ways.” The origins of Cincinnati chili can be traced back to Macedonian immigrant brothers, the Kiradjieffs, who opened Empress Chili in the early twentieth century. They experimented with spices to appeal to a broader clientele, inadvertently creating a dish that would become synonymous with Cincinnati. Though countless variations exist, the core essence of Cincinnati chili remains a testament to the city’s history of innovation and cultural fusion. It is a dish that sparks debate, inspires devotion, and remains undeniably Cincinnati.
Goetta: A Germanic Staple
Beyond chili, another Cincinnati food holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals: goetta. This savory breakfast meat, pronounced “get-uh,” is a blend of ground meat (typically pork or a combination of pork and beef), steel-cut oats, and a medley of spices. The result is a hearty, flavorful patty that’s both comforting and surprisingly versatile.
Taste and Texture of Goetta
Goetta’s taste is distinctly savory, with the spices providing a warm, aromatic depth. The steel-cut oats give it a unique texture, somewhere between a sausage and a meatloaf. Crispy on the outside and slightly chewy on the inside, goetta is typically sliced and fried until golden brown.
How to Enjoy Goetta
There are countless ways to enjoy goetta. It’s a classic breakfast item, often served alongside eggs, toast, or pancakes. It can also be found in sandwiches, on pizzas, or even crumbled as a topping for salads. Its versatility makes it a beloved ingredient in many Cincinnati kitchens.
Goetta’s Origins and Popular Brands
Goetta’s origins lie in the German immigrant communities that settled in the Cincinnati area during the nineteenth century. Faced with limited resources, they sought to stretch their meat supply by combining it with oats and spices. This resourceful adaptation led to the creation of goetta, a dish that has endured for generations. Brands like Glier’s Goetta are synonymous with Cincinnati goetta and readily available in local grocery stores. Many restaurants also feature their own unique goetta creations, showcasing the dish’s enduring appeal and culinary adaptability.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: French Pot Perfection
For those with a sweet tooth, Cincinnati offers another iconic treat: Graeter’s Ice Cream. What sets Graeter’s apart is its unique production method, the French Pot process. This involves using small-batch freezers that produce incredibly dense and creamy ice cream.
Signature Flavors and The French Pot Process
Graeter’s is famous for its signature chocolate chunks, which are created by pouring molten chocolate into the freezing ice cream. As the ice cream churns, the chocolate shatters into irregular, oversized pieces that provide a satisfying contrast to the smooth ice cream. Flavors like Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip and Mint Chocolate Chip are perennial favorites, drawing crowds year-round.
Graeter’s History and The Experience
The Graeter’s story began in the late nineteenth century, when Louis and Regina Graeter started selling homemade ice cream from a street cart in Cincinnati. Their dedication to quality and unique French Pot process helped them build a loyal following, establishing Graeter’s as a Cincinnati institution.
Visiting a Graeter’s scoop shop is more than just buying ice cream; it’s an experience. The aroma of freshly made waffle cones, the friendly service, and the anticipation of that first bite of creamy, chocolate-chunk-filled ice cream all contribute to the Graeter’s magic. It’s a taste of Cincinnati nostalgia that continues to delight generations.
Montgomery Inn Ribs: A Cincinnati Barbecue Legend
Barbecue may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Cincinnati cuisine, but Montgomery Inn has made its mark on the culinary scene with its legendary ribs. These pork ribs are known for their tender, fall-off-the-bone texture and their signature barbecue sauce. The sauce is tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy, creating a flavor profile that keeps customers coming back for more.
The Montgomery Inn Story
The Montgomery Inn story began in the post-war era, when Ted and Matula Gregory opened a small restaurant on the Ohio River. Their focus on quality ingredients and a commitment to customer service helped them build a loyal following. Over time, Montgomery Inn became synonymous with Cincinnati barbecue, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The Montgomery Inn Experience
Dining at Montgomery Inn is a lively and memorable experience. The atmosphere is bustling, the portions are generous, and the ribs are, without a doubt, the star of the show. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a trip to Montgomery Inn is a rite of passage for any barbecue enthusiast.
Other Cincinnati Culinary Delights
While Cincinnati chili, goetta, Graeter’s, and Montgomery Inn ribs may be the most well-known dishes, the city’s culinary scene extends far beyond these iconic foods. For example, pickle chips, deep-fried slices of dill pickles, offer a tangy and addictive snack that’s often served with a creamy dipping sauce. LaRosa’s Pizza is another Cincinnati favorite, known for its thin crust and slightly sweet sauce. During the annual Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the United States, visitors can sample a wide variety of German foods and beers. Cincinnati’s burgeoning craft beer scene also deserves recognition, with numerous local breweries offering a diverse range of styles and flavors.
A Taste of Cincinnati: A Culinary Adventure
Cincinnati’s food scene is a reflection of its diverse history, its resourceful spirit, and its unwavering commitment to quality. From the unique flavors of Cincinnati chili to the hearty comfort of goetta, from the creamy indulgence of Graeter’s ice cream to the mouthwatering barbecue of Montgomery Inn, the city’s iconic foods offer a tangible connection to its past and a delicious glimpse into its present.
Exploring Cincinnati’s culinary landscape is a rewarding experience for any food lover. By sampling these must-try dishes, you’ll not only satisfy your appetite but also gain a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Don’t just visit Cincinnati; taste Cincinnati! Discover local restaurants, attend food festivals, and embark on your own culinary journey through the Queen City. You won’t be disappointed.
