This month I was delighted to be featured on Cincinnati Refined with Amy Scalia! You can read the article below or go to Cincinnati Refined to watch my video interview with Amy.
Whether you're from Cincinnati or not, Hannah Downs will make it feel like home.
She's a lifelong Cincinnati resident as well as a Realtor, social media influencer, and blogger covering all things Greater Cincinnati on www.homewithhannahdowns.com.
"I love to explore our city, welcome new people to Cincinnati, and help others find a home while connecting them with the community," she says. "And as a full-time Realtor, I also love offering helpful real estate tips to keep everyone in the know."
She says her social media is a mix of fun Cincinnati-centric lifestyle content, helpful real estate tips, and marketing for her clients. In fact, Downs was recently featured as Top 100 Real Estate Agents on Social Media in North America. "Marketing your home is more than listing it on the MLS, Zillow, Realtor.com and Trulia. Your Realtor should use every possible outlet to market your home: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, virtual tours, flyers, email blasts, and open houses," she explains. "I develop custom, digitally-savvy marketing strategies for each and every one of my clients."
When looking for a new home in a new neighborhood, Downs' biggest recommendation is to have a realtor who truly knows the community. "Having a large network is important, especially in this market," she says. "Inventory is very low, so having a Realtor with connections to find off-market opportunities for clients can be a game-changer."
When it comes to tips for buyers in this red hot real estate market, Downs says that being prepared is the most important. Be sure you already have a pre-approval letter before you start shopping, and be sure to talk to a lender about your budget. “You’d be surprised how much you can secure for a home these days,” she says. “You really want to be able to make an offer as soon as you see ‘the’ home, and having an agent who’s knowledgeable puts you ahead of the game.”
She adds that it’s important to be all-in and ready to act quick. "The housing market is quick, and sellers wants to be able to close as quickly as possible," she adds.
If you’re trying to sell your home in this market, Downs says that there are several simple upgrades you can make to get it ready for buyers and get the most for your home: The first tip, she says, is to declutter and organize. “Clean off those counters and be sure to put away the family photos,” she says. "Another thing, is to take a look at your walls and trim. White, bright, and airy is in right now, so a fresh coat of paint could do wonders in bringing in offers on your home."
Lastly, she says, think curb appeal. "You want to handle your landscaping. Trim those bushes, lay down fresh mulch, and even get out the power washer to freshen things up,” she says.
Working with Downs starts with a consultation. She take a grand tour of your home before utilizing a proprietary program to get you in touch with a network of trusted resources. “I will give you a long to-do list and then connect you with Sibcy Cline-trusted Home Services providers,” she says. “They’ll help you get your home list-ready in no time.”
You can also check out Downs’ website, homewithhannahdowns.com, to learn more about her and the city. “I have a blog on there highlighting things to do around Cincinnati,” she says. “I also have exclusive listings on website, so if you’re curious to know what each neighborhood has to offer, that’s the place to go.”
She also has a program to help you find out what your home may be worth if you’re thinking of putting it on the market. Learn more by visiting here, give her a call at (513) 324-1162 or email her at hdowns@sibcycline.com.
Summer is officially here, who’s excited?! I know I am. If you’re looking for something fun to do in Cincinnati this summer, you’ve came to the right place. Here’s part one of my summer bucket list:
Get Fresh Air and Sunshine
-Have some fun in the sun renting a canoe or kayak on the Little Miami River. Scenic River offers canoe, kayak and tube trip rentals. You can purchase your tickets ahead of time here.
-Whether you like to walk your dog or take a bike ride, the Loveland Bike trail is a fun way to spend your day! Don’t own a bike? No worries, you can rent one!
-Gather up your family or friends to enjoy some drinks and play some sand volleyball at Fifty West. Fifty West has a total of six outdoor sand volleyball courts and hosts weekly leagues and tournaments.
Attend an Event or Take a Tour
-Schedule a Cincinnati beer, wine or bourbon tour. The brewery locations change based on the date of the tour. You can check the schedule on their website.
-Attend an event at Fountain Square. From trivia night to salsa night… there’s something fun for everyone! Check out their list of events here.
-Discover a different side of Cincinnati on a guided tour of the city’s underground tunnels. This tour is about 2 and a half hours, loaded with history about Cincinnati. You can purchase your tickets here.
Kick Back and Relax
-Cool off and visit one of Cincinnati’s local ice cream shops. Some of my favorites are The Cone, Flubbs, Norwood Delite Creamy Whip and Aglamesis Brothers. Stay tuned for a full list of Cincy’s best ice cream shops!
Two soft serve ice cream cone with premium matcha green tea and hojicha.
-Check out one of Cincinnati’s rooftop bars. There’s nothing better than a cold drink with a nice view. Check out my list of Cincinnati’s rooftop bars here.
-Pack your blankets, lawn chairs and your favorite snacks… there are tons of free movies playing this summer at our local parks. Summit Park, Washington Park and at the Liberty Center, to name a few.
Don’t Forget the Cincy Favorites
-A day at the Cincinnati Zoo is always fun. Fiona will sure bring a smile to your face!
-Watch your favorite Cincinnati sports team(s) play. The Red’s and FC Cincinnati have games lined up all summer long!
This list should keep you busy for the next month or so… stay tuned for my summer bucket list, part two! Make sure to follow along my social media for news and events throughout the summer in Cincinnati, @ HomewithHannahDowns. Cheers to fun summer, 2022!
I was honored to be featured as the real estate "Rising Star" by Cincinnati Real Producers magazine! Below is a snippet of the article and you can read more here:May_2022_Cincinnati_Real_Producers
“I love Cincinnati,” raves REALTOR® Hannah Downs. “I grew up in West Chester, attended Lakota, and then went to UC. After graduation, I thought about moving out of state, but ended up moving to Hyde Park. That’s when I truly fell in love with Cincinnati, and I’m so glad I never left.” She then purchased a home in the historical district of Norwood. “I don’t ever plan on leaving,” smiles Hannah.
This lifelong Cincinnati resident knew what she wanted to do even as a child – real estate. Watching Extreme Makeover Home Edition was her favorite show. At 12 years old, she even had the opportunity to watch Extreme Makeover Home Edition live in her hometown.
“My favorite part of every episode was “Move That Bus,’” she says. “The people would get so emotional and start crying and hugging each other. Watching these families get excited about their new home made me excited and happy too. I knew I wanted to do this for people when I grew up!”
This popular show left an impression upon Hannah. “The show taught me that every person has a story behind their home, which motivates me in my business today.”
Hannah’s dream of becoming a REALTOR® didn’t come true until 2020. She comments, “It’s been an amazing first couple of years. This March, I had my first full year at Sibcy Cline.”
Prior to real estate, Hannah worked for Medpace, which was a great fit for her at the time. This large pharmaceutical company has a special place in Hannah’s heart. She explains, “My little brother went through a clinical trial, and it saved his life. The company is great, and it was an amazing opportunity out of college. However, I knew it wasn’t going to be long-term. I always knew in the back of my mind I wanted to be a real estate agent.”
Back when Hannah was at UC, she knew she wanted a career that involved helping people. At the age of 19, she called her father and asked him, “Can I go to Hondros College and become a real estate agent?” Her father was the voice of reason, telling her, “You are too young for this. You have to provide for yourself and you don’t have enough experience for this.” Hannah took her father’s words to heart and reasoned, “I knew I needed to save for real estate and make it a long-term goal.”
That’s exactly what she did. When she was 19, she decided that she was going to be a real estate agent when she was 27. She graduated college at the age of 22, giving her five years to save, build, and learn. Her dream became a reality sooner than she imagined at the age of 24.
The journey at Medpace ended in the spring of 2020, creating a new beginning for Hannah. She took her stimulus check and the extra time she had during the pandemic and started her real estate journey.
She comments, "A dream is just a dream without a plan." She couldn't be happier about her new path in life. “I’m passionate about understanding my clients’ needs and making those needs come true,” she says. “I’m passionate about listening to their story and giving them a fresh start when they need it.”
Hannah has a heart full of gratitude for Sibcy Cline – the training, support and dedication they bring to their agents is unmatched. “I feel like my career elevated at Sibcy Cline, and I wouldn’t be where I am today with- out their support,” she says. She is especially grateful to her mentor, Jeri O’Brien-Lofgren, and looks up to her.
Spring is here! Embrace these budget-friendly tips for a spring refresh in your home.
Tip #1: Flowers are back in bloom and on standby to help you brighten any room. My favorite place to pick up a fresh bunch? Trader Joes.
Tip #2: Freshen up your tea towels and guest bath hand towels. Keep our eye out for crisp white towels dotted with hints of the new season like topiaries, florals, lemons, and birds — whatever says, “Springtime!” to you.
Tip #3: Throw open those windows and consider ditching the blinds. It’s not spring to me until I feel the warm breeze blowing through the house. Give those windows a good scrub. Not a penny to spend here – just some good ole elbow grease.
Tip #4: Save the front porch from FOMO: Don’t forget the front porch! Planters full of flowers, an outdoor rug, a wreath that pops, or some striped throw pillows — put your personal touch on your home’s main entry point.
Tip #5: Pick up spring-inspired throws. For days when there’s a lingering chill, have light-colored or pastel throw blankets on hand. Then, the whole fam will be warm and toasty while still giving a nod to the most welcome season.
Happy spring, friends! May your home and heart bloom bright this season.
It’s an exciting week here in Cincinnati…baseball is officially back! Although the Reds open their season on the road for the first time since 1990, there is no need to leave Cincinnati to celebrate. I’ve created a list of everything you need to know to enjoy this annual Cincinnati tradition, right here in our city:
*All of these events will take place on Tuesday April 12th, 2022*
Washington Park’s Opening Day Party– From 10-4 PM, enjoy parade views, live music, family friendly games and activities, giveaways, drink specials and more!
Opening Day Party at Rhinegeist– The party starts at 9 AM, come party in OTR! Drink specials, live viewing of the game on taproom jumbotron, baseball-themed decor and giveaways.
Findlay Market Opening Day Parade– Starting at noon, the Parade starts at Findlay Market on Race Street. It will go straight down Race all the way down to 5th, turning east on 5th and ending at the Taft Theater.
Opening Day at Taft’s Ale House– Taft’s Ale House is opening at 9 AM to begin the celebrations and the first 100 people to purchase a pint of beer will get a FREE Opening Day koozie! There will be drinks, breakfast, lunch, kids pitching games, coloring stations, a photobooth and even a contest! They will be giving away FRONT ROW seats to the parade, right outside on the Ale House patio.
Opening Day at Beeline– This party is located at Newport on the Levee. Watch the big game on their giant LED’s and enjoy a drink or two at their riverfront cocktail bar! Take advantage of their drink specials.
Reds Opening Day at Braxton Cincinnati– Kick off Reds Opening Day at Braxton Cincinnati! You can enjoy the first Reds Game of the season at 4:10 PM at Braxton Brewing Co. They have cold drinks, great vibes and tons of TV’s… you can’t miss the game here!
Opening Day at The Banks– Several establishments at The Banks will be opening early to celebrate the return of baseball in Cincinnati. Enjoy drinks specials and all-day celebrations. Not to mention, this location is a part of the DORA zone.
As always, be safe, have fun and go Reds!
Get ready for game day, Cincinnati Style! For the first time in over 30 years, the Cincinnati Bengals are playing in the Super Bowl! Who Dey!
As a Cincinnati Native, I am beyond excited for our city and this game. In honor of the big game, I’ve put together a list of Super Bowl snacks. Get rowdy and get hungry!
Rise and Show Your Stripes: Bengals Breakfast Treats
Photo: Biggby Coffee
Biggby Coffee Cincinnati– Start your day off with a great cup of coffee. Biggby Coffee Cincinnati has tasty Bengals themed drinks: Show Your Stripes Latte, Who Dey Cream Freeze, Show Your Stripes Cold Brew or Welcome to the Jungle Mocktail. Located off Redbank Rd and North Bend Rd.
Blossim Donuts-Celebrate the Super Bowl with Who Dey donuts from Blossim Donuts! Make sure you pre- order your donuts online or by phone 513-745-0090. Located in Montgomery.
Photo: Blossim Donuts
Keep it Queen City with Meaty Mains
Adriatico’s Pizza– The best kind of pizza to order while hosting game day with your friends + family is Adriatico’s. Not only does the pizza taste amazing, but it feeds the whole crew. You can order a “Bearcat” pizza, which may be the biggest pizza you’ve ever seen! Located in Clifton.
The Oak Tavern– In my opinion, the best chicken wings in the city are from The Oak Tavern! Seasoned, smoked and grilled.. they really can’t get any better for Super Bowl snacks. You can order ahead of time, call 513-321-6258. Located in Oakley.
Photo: Oak Tavern
Montgomery Inn– Ribs, wings, pulled pork and more. Perfect for game day! Order your Super Bowl snacks today, for pickup on Feb 13th! All packages feed 12-18 people. Call 513-791-3482 to order from The Original and 513-721-7427 to order from The Boathouse. Located in Montgomery, and Downtown Cincinnati.
Keystone Bar & Grill– Keystone is game day ready! Save money and time by ordering their game day catering special: order a pan of pulled pork or pulled chicken sliders, a half –pan of mac n’ cheese (the best in the city), and a bowl of Keystone chips for just $99. Located in Clifton and Covington.
Lehr’s Prime Market– Lehr’s has all your Super Bowl snacks for the big game. Order your Bengals Charcuterie Board or their Tailgate Sandwiches! The Ben-Gal, the Mmmunoz and The Who Dey will each tastefully serve 24 hungry fans or 48 pick-up sandwiches for appetizers! Please order by Thursday for Sunday pick-up.
Photo: Lehr’s Prime Market
And last but not least….
Skyline Chili– A Cincinnati classic. Skyline dip, Cheese Coneys, 3-ways… you can make your Skyline at home or order carry out. Skyline Chili is a Cincinnati game day necessity! If you don’t know how to make skyline dip, you can find it (and more recipes!) here. Locations vary throughout Cincinnati.
Desserts for a Sweet Bengals Victory
The Cheesecakery– Looking for something sweet? Order some Bengals cheesecake cupcakes and a Who Dey Latte from the Cheesecakery. Located in Madisonville.
Servatii– A Cincinnati tradition! Bengals themed cupcakes, cookies, donuts and more! Check out their Who Dey Party Pack, featuring appetizers, a main course, sides and a desert tray. Perfect for your Super Bowl Party, Locations vary throughout Cincinnati.
Ruby’s Chocolates– Order some Bengals inspired Cookies n’ Cream truffle cakes or some Who Dey Joysticks. You won’t regret it, they taste amazing. Located in Oakley.
Photo: Ruby’s Chocolates
Here’s to funny commercials, an entertaining half-time show, yummy food and great memories. Who Dey!
Support local this holiday season (better yet, year-round) and buy your baked goods from Sugar Baby Bakehouse! I love a good sweet treat… in my opinion Sugar Baby Bakehouse has some of the best in town. Here are a few reasons why you should shop from your local bakery, Sugar Baby Bakehouse-
1.Supporting local goes a long way…. You can be a part of making someone’s dreams come true.
When buying store-bought treats, you’re essentially supporting a huge chain that has locations all over the country. When buying local, you’re supporting a new business with big dreams! Meet Haley Chapline, the owner of Sugar Baby Bakehouse. Haley has big dreams to fill her mother’s shoes. When Haley was a little girl, she watched her mom in the kitchen do what she absolutely loved to do. Her mom’s passion and skill for baking definitely passed down to her. After attending college in St. Louis, Haley then switched it up and went to culinary school to fulfill her passion. “When you gather with friends, food and drinks are always involved. It makes people feel joyful and I love that.”- Haley Chapline, owner of Sugar Baby Bakehouse
As Haley finished culinary school, she became a chef at the largest owned corporate restaurant in Downtown Cincinnati. She then blended her training and experience, added a scoop of entrepreneurial spirit and launched her own business called Sugar Baby Bakehouse. Haleys goal is to own a business she’s passionate about, while being flexible at home, just like her mother once did. As of right now, Haley bakes her delicious treats from her kitchen at home. As her business continues to expand, she is going to need her own commercial space. We can be a part of making her dreams come true by purchasing her treats!
2. Let’s be honest…these local treats taste better than any store-bought treats.
Fresh local treats from Sugar Baby Bakehouse hands down top any grocery store-bought treats. Not only do they taste better but they are made with a better quality, selection and service. “I grew up in the kitchen with my Southern mother where I learned all our family recipes, passed down from previous generations. Over the years, my love of cooking grew into a passion and I started creating my own recipes”-Haley. Sugar Baby Bakehouse offers a variety of treats such as cookies, cake jars (my favorite), custom cakes, cupcakes and cake pops. Although she offers a variety, her favorite things to bake are custom kids cakes and just about anything southern. “Kids cakes are always bright and fun and southern recipes remind me of my mom”. Haley loves to get creative in the kitchen… you want it? Chances are, she can bake it! You can order your treats by reaching out via social media, phone call/text or through the Sugar Baby Bakehouse website-
Make sure you reach out in advance for your custom order. Once your order is placed, it typically takes 48 hours to be baked and shipped.
3. Sugar Baby Bakehouse gives back to charity.
Sugar Baby Bakehouse makes it a priority to give back and has helped make a difference in the lives of many. Every month, Sugar Baby Bakehouse donates 10% to a charity of choice. Every sale goes towards giving back but there is also a donation link on their website and on their social media page. Sugar Baby Bakehouse has given to charities such as the Ronald Mcdonald House, Save the Animals foundation, Special Olympics of Hamilton County and the 2TenDevelopment. “I want our baked goods to help spread love and be shared because food is at the center of all gatherings where memories are made”- Haley Chapline, owner of Sugar Baby Bakehouse.
If you’re buying treats for your upcoming holiday party, Valentine’s Day, an upcoming birthday/wedding or simply just because you have a sweet tooth, skip the grocery and support local. Follow along and support Sugar Baby Bakehouse as their journey continues to grow! You can find them on social media @SugarBabyBakehouse. Enjoy!
It’s always great to have family visit and stay with you over the holidays. You get to be a tourist in your own city, as you show them around your fav places and eat at local hot spots. When your guests arrive, you want to make sure they feel comfortable in your home. Here’s a holiday hosting checklist of ways to make your guests feel welcome in your home this season:
-Offer to leave a key or your keyless entry code. Sometimes it’s just easier that way.
-Offer a house tour upon arrival. Make sure your guests feel comfortable and know where everything is (especially where the extra toilet paper or towels are located, ha!)
-Have the essentials clean and ready to go. Make sure you have nice, clean sheets, plenty of fluffy pillows, and extra blankets near the bed. Have extra towels clean and folded. Everyone has different comfort levels and what you might think is enough actually won’t be!
-Have a welcoming basket! Collect body wash, shampoo, toothpaste, lotion, toothbrushes etc. and put them in a cute basket in your guest room. (I love using free samples or hotel freebies that I’ve collected for this.) Maybe even add some of their fav snacks and candy!
-Make room for their belongings. Whether they’re staying in a spare bedroom room or sleeping on an air mattress in the living room, you want to make sure to provide an area where your guests can put their things and not feel like they’re in the way.
-Place a charger by their bed. There is nothing worse than traveling and forgetting your phone charger.
-Have extra water bottles ready to go! Setting a water bottle or two on your night stand can add an extra touch.
-Have a notecard with the wifi password written down so your guests can easily access the internet.
-Stock the fridge. Is there a special snack or drink you know your guests love? Get it all at the store beforehand. Make sure you have enough alcohol and coffee. Remember, they are on vacation!
-Get out of the house! Provide a travel guide or make an itinerary. Yes, I’ve made an itinerary for my family this week! You get to show off your city, make it fun.
Making friends and family feel welcome is so important. Give yourself a pat on the back for being this years host. I hope you enjoy this special time with your loved ones! Happy Holidays!
It’s 2021 and as we know it, things have changed. That includes the way we picnic! Forget the plain blanket, ham sandwich and juice box… say hello to an extravagant set up, unique snacks and much more than any basic picnic that comes to mind. Girls days, proposals, date nights, bridal showers, mommy & me, birthday parties or just for fun…luxury picnics are the next big thing in Cincinnati.
Jewels Dye decided to bring the southern trend of luxury pop up picnics here to Cincinnati, Ohio. Her small business, Hey Sweet Cincy, ditches the idea of a basic picnic and makes them bigger, better and some would say ,’boujier’. It all started as she was vacationing in Savannah Georgia. Jewels went to Forsyth Park and noticed an adorable picnic set up. It wasn’t just any picnic though.. it was glamorous, fancy and it was nothing she had ever seen before! Jewels loved it and knew others would too.
She then researched businesses throughout Cincy, trying to find something like what she had saw. At the time, there were no other luxury picnic businesses here. That’s when Jewels decided to change things. Jewels began buying items, little by little. The next thing you know, she had just about everything needed for a luxury picnic. Tables, pillows, rugs, linen runners, centerpieces, florals and candles. With her creative mindset, passion of serving others and drive to make things look presentable, Jewels then launched Hey Sweet Cincy.
“I love challenging myself and trying new things.”-Jewels Dye, owner of Hey Sweet Cincy
These luxurious picnics can be set up outdoors, just about anywhere throughout Cincinnati. Her favorite and most popular locations include, Alms Park, Ault Park, Eden Park and East Fork Lake. Each picnic is uniquely set up with an aesthetic look. Picnic guests receive craft sodas, sparkling waters and fancy homemade deserts in a charcuterie style. Jewels has a culinary background, so her treats are specially made & to die for!
Each package offered is based on the number of people attending the picnic. There are date night, small group, large group and celebration group packages. You can have up to 14 people attend (great for birthday parties). Every person has their own story and set up, which makes each picnic unique and special. You also don’t want to miss out capturing your experience. Hey Sweet Cincy has a photo add on to their packages. Props are provided as well as a professional photographer, so you can never forget your picture perfect picnic.
Out of all the packages, Jewels said that the date night packages are her absolute favorite. She enjoys taking pictures of each couple in love. Her favorite memory was during an anniversary picnic. The girlfriend surprised her boyfriend… he was blindfolded and had no idea what to expect! When he saw the picnic set up he was so shocked and very happy. Just like Jewels, it was nothing he had ever seen before! It was so much fun for Jewels to see the couple celebrate their anniversary. She loved being to be a part of their special surprise.
So…are you ready to take picnic to a whole new level? All you have to do is book and show up, Hey Sweet Cincy will do the rest. To book your next event, private message Hey Sweet Cincy on social media. Hey Sweet Cincy has had a busy summer, gathering couples, friends and family members, while making memories at the park. Make sure you check out Hey Sweet Cincy’s Instagram or Facebook so you don’t miss out!
Calling all Cincinnati couples... this blog is just for you! My anniversary is just around the corner and one of my favorite things to do is put on a cute outfit and go on a special date. Although, you may be like me and feel like you’ve just about ran out of dinner ideas. I think it’s time we all try something new. Enjoy this list of best date night spots in Cincinnati. Send this to your significant other for a hint... 😉
Emery - This one of a kind date night spot is located in the heart of Mariemont. Start off your evening ordering the whipped feta, one of Emery’s crowd favorites. Their menu has an entrée for just about everyone, but they are specially known for their seafood. End your evening enjoying Emery’s donut holes, dipped in their house-made chocolate sauce. Bonus- Their menu has a large variety of gluten free options.
Primavista - Located less than 10 minutes from downtown Cincinnati. Enjoy your 5 star Italian diner with a view like no other. Primavista was named “Best Italian Restaurant” by Cincinnati Magazine. This date night spot has also won “Best Dining with a View,” “Best Date Spot,” “Most Romantic,” and many more by CityBeat and Cin Weekly. I highly recommend you plan out your reservation in advance, as this spot is very popular. Pro tip-when you make your reservation, try asking for a window seat, you won't regret it.
Pep and Delores- Located in OTR. I know I just recommended an Italian restaurant but hey.. don’t we need MORE options?! I have never tasted pasta like I have at Pep and Delores, you have to try it! If you haven’t been, make a reservation for your next date night and try the marinated cucumbers for an appetizer and the pesto for your entrée. Those are my absolute favorites! I highly recommend ordering more than one plate of food, as the servings aren’t too heavy. I also recommend sitting in the basement for a romantic date night vibe.
The Mercer- An American inspired bistro, located in the heart of OTR. Looking for downtown vibes with amazing service? Look no further than The Mercer! They are known for having exceptional service and food. Their menu does not disappoint as their meat falls right from the bone. Try one of their uniquely prepared entrées, paired with one of their many delicious side dishes. Make sure you follow along on their Instagram to see when they are serving special dishes!
The Birch- Eat, drink, private dine and bottle shop... that’s what you’ll get at The Birch, located in Terrace Park. This establishment has some of the best cocktails in town! One of my friends, Adelina, enjoyed her date night at the Birch-she had a relaxing evening on the patio, while snacking on their favorite, a charcuterie board and the signature rose spritz. Not only is the patio super cute, the inside is decorated bright and lovely. She highly recommends! Be sure to check out their retail room on your way out, there is a very nice selection of wine.
The Symphony Restaurant- This “hidden gem of Cincinnati” is a restored townhome turned into a hotel and Cincinnati restaurant. Treat yourself to a five-course, gourmet dinner in OTR, just across from the Music Hall. The historically furnished restaurant, jazz bar & lounge are perfect for a romantic date night. Their executive Chef, Tonya McGriff, changes the course dinner menu seasonally, so check out the menu on their website prior to going. Jazz music times are in high demand so make sure to have a reservation. You can reserve by calling 513-721-3353 or through Resy.
Gaslight Bar & Grill- Located in Clifton, this restaurant has some major history! Prior to Gaslight opening up, the building was the Clifton Branch Library. Start your date off with a small plate of fried oysters, or one of the chefs favorites, Elotes. If you guys personally know me, you know I love natural light and huge windows... this place has both! Bright atmosphere by day, warm ambiance by night. End your evening with a cocktail while watching the sunset outside, as Gaslight Bar & Grill has a rooftop terrace. Cheers!
Butcher and Barrel - A unique authentic Argentine restaurant located downtown Cincinnati. As you know, they eat a lot of meat in Argentina. I like to start off with my favorite, the smoked wings! Make sure you save room for your entrée, there’s plenty to pick from. Butcher and Barrel offers specials such as entrees for two, half price select bottles of wine on Thursdays and half price pasta night is on Sundays. Want to make the date really spicy? Enjoy salsa dancing, their Thursday night special. Have fun!
Salazar Restaurant- Lovely interior, amazing food, refreshing drinks and delicious sweets are located in OTR. Start off your date by ordering one of their unique cocktails, the Lily Pad was quite refreshing. Some of my favorite entrées are the Wagyu Sirloin Steak and the Roasted Chicken Breast. I would say all of the food here is fresh and flavorful. End your night with house made ice cream or sorbet. Keep in mind, Salazar’s menus reflect the seasons and are subject to change.
The View at Shires' Garden-Looking for somewhere with a good menu but also a good view AND patio? This date night spot stands high above the city, located on the 10th floor of downtowns City Club Apartments. I absolutely love the interior and vibes of this spot. There is an outdoor section on the rooftop where you can enjoy the city views with a drink, while watching the sunset. The cocktails here don’t only just look good, they taste good too! Check out their seasonal plates on their website, you won't be disappointed.
Enoteca Emilia- Enoteca Emilia used to be located in O’Bryonville but closed just about five years ago. This date night spot made it’s comeback, opening back up at its new location in Loveland. Have you ever tried gnocchi? If not, you have to try the gnocchi at Enoteca Emilia. It’s also refreshing to know that every dish is made with fresh and local ingredients. Bon Appétit!
Whether it’s your anniversary or “just because”, we all deserve a special date night. Make sure you click on each restaurant that's listed, as it’s linked to each website for more details. Please reach out to me and let me know if you try any of these fabulous places with your significant other. I always love hearing your feedback. Enjoy!
“I love Cincinnati,” raves REALTOR® Hannah Downs. “I grew up in West Chester, attended Lakota, and then went to UC. After graduation, I thought about moving out of state, but ended up moving to Hyde Park. That’s when I truly fell in love with Cincinnati, and I’m so glad I never left.” She then purchased a home in the historical district of Norwood. “I don’t ever plan on leaving,” smiles Hannah.
It’s 2021 and as we know it, things have changed. That includes the way we picnic! Forget the plain blanket, ham sandwich and juice box… say hello to an extravagant set up, unique snacks and much more than any basic picnic that comes to mind. Girls days, proposals, date nights, bridal showers, mommy & me, birthday parties or just for fun…luxury picnics are the next big thing in Cincinnati. 
