Super Bowl Snacks: Cincinnati Style!
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
- 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.
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.
- 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.
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.
Here’s to funny commercials, an entertaining half-time show, yummy food and great memories. Who Dey!
3 Reasons to Support your Local Bakery
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-
Instagram: @SugarBabyBakehouse
Phone: 513.399.5420
Website: https://www.sugarbabybakehouse.com/
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!
Holiday Hosting Checklist- Ways to Make Your Guests Feel Welcome
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!
Luxury Picnics Are the Next Big Thing in Cincy
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!
FB: @HeySweetCincy
Best Date Night Spots in Cincinnati
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!
Best Brunch Spots in Cincinnati
There’s nothing better than a weekend brunch! If you’re located in Cincy, love a good brunch and you’re not sure of where to go, keep reading…
I asked around the locals in Cincinnati what everyone’s favorite brunch spot is and why. Here’s what I got:
•Red Feather Kitchen– Red Feather offers an upscale – casual dining experience, located in Oakley. Brittany C. was first to recommend this unique brunch spot. “Red Feather hands down has the best build your own bloody. The entire menu is 😍 *heart eye emoji*” – Brittany C. I can’t forget to mention, their sausage biscuits and gravy are to die for!
•Half Day Cafe– Check out this neighborhood family cafe, located in Wyoming and now Mason. “We love the atmosphere and the building. The staff is amazing and the food is incredible (especially the Mango Butter Rum Pancakes)”-Danielle H. “We’re kind of thinking that Cincinnati breakfast should be a blend of expected standards and unexpected surprises.”- Half Day Cafe.
•Toast and Berry– Toast and Berry is located in the heart of Montgomery. Everything served is made with fresh, high quality ingredients. You will not want to miss out on their cinnamon roll french toast. Keep in mind, Toast and Berry does not take reservations.
•Sugar n’ Spice Diner– This diner has been serving Cincinnati since 1941! “Today, Sugar n’ Spice prides itself on creating a fun, friendly, comfortable atmosphere, serving the same great food that has kept people coming back for generations.”- Sugar n’ Spice. This diner has two locations within Cincinnati, downtown Cincy and Reading Rd. Every person gets a special surprise at the end of brunch… you’re going to love this place!
•The Echo– Located in Hyde Park, this brunch spot is one of a kind. The menu always has weekly features, you can check it out online before going. “I have been going for years. I recommend getting the hot mess!”- Becky T. Great food, great location! If you’re in for a Sunday brunch at the Echo, make sure you check out the Hyde Park Farmers market after you eat.
•Hangover Easy-“Favorite brunch spot is Hangover Easy because they have unique options!” -Christina L. Hangover Easy is known for having tons of selections. Savory, sweet and even lunch options for those who don’t like breakfast foods. Plus the cocktails are amazing! Located on Short Vine in Clifton.
•Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey– It sounds like this spot has the best biscuits in town. “Best biscuits around by far. Like I could eat them until the point of being unable to breathe. They also have amazing Thai lemongrass shrimp & grits, and honestly so many other good things on their menu! Their service and owner/managers are also always fantastic!”- Emily W. This spot is located on Broadway Street.
•Northside Yacht Club – Brunch is only available on Sundays at the Northside Yacht Club. This spot is unique and I hear their bloody Mary’s are to die for! Bring your pup to brunch because the patio is pet friendly. If you hadn’t guessed already, this brunch spot is located in Northside.
•Crown Republic Gastropub– From bottomless mimosas to a hearty brunch, you can’t go wrong with this place! Crown Republic is located in the heart of OTR. I went myself and tried the business special…it was amazing! The portions were fairly large. I left brunch feeling happy + full.
•Maplewood Kitchen and Bar– Offers a West Coast-style cuisine. “They excel at all things I look for in a brunch place…brunch menu options are unique and taste amazing! (Sweet and Savory). Juices are not an afterthought, they are fresh squeezed and delicious- not pre made. Their coffee is from an espresso bar…. no watered down crap in a canteen!” – Ali-Page W. Sounds like this place has it all! Located downtown and now in Mason.
•Taste of Belgium– Taste of Belgium is a restaurant group of Belgian-inspired eateries. There are currently six locations throughout Cincinnati. “They have the best waffles hands DOWN! I have tried a few and nothing compares, probably because it’s the best waffle ever”- Christina L. Emily recommends getting the nutella and banana waffle. The goetta hash is pretty bomb too. Check out their website (linked above) to make your reservation today!
Now you’re never going to run out of places to brunch! Feel free to let me know if you tried anywhere recommended. I’d love to hear about your experience too.
*For more details, make sure you check out the websites linked above. Hours of operation may vary due to COVID.*
Check out the Home with Hannah Downs blog for more fun things in Cincinnati. Stay tuned for brunch list number TWO, as I’ve received tons more brunch recommendations!
Increase Curb Appeal and the Value of Your Home
Have you ever thought about hiring a professional to pressure wash your home? Meet Israel Cruz, the small business owner of Cruz Pressure Washing, LLC. Israel is a husband, father, entrepreneur and longtime resident of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Israel provides professional power washing services in the Cincinnati area. “I enjoy being able to serve my customers by caring for their homes, and making them look the best they can be”. His mission is to help you increase curb appeal and the value of your home. “By doing the dirty work for you, you have the time to focus on what’s most important to you.”
So...Why pressure wash? Here are five reasons why you should hire a professional pressure washing service:
1. Guarantee safety of your home
2. Avoid dealing with chemicals and cleaners you don’t understand
3. A professional pressure washer will clean the hard to reach places
4. A professional pressure washer is insured to protect both himself AND his customers
5. A professional pressure washer is highly trained and equipped with state of the art equipment, ensuring that he has the right tools to do an excellent job on your cleaning project
It’s simple…don’t let the dirt build up before it’s too late. Keeping your home well maintained is the key to a healthy and safe home environment. When a home is kept clean and in good repair, it is less likely to develop even worse problems in the future. If that doesn’t sell you on hiring this small business, the before and after images will! *Image disclaimer: Images are in courtesy of Israel Cruz. Hannah Downs does not own the rights to these images. Images are for before + after service visual only. House is not advertised for sale.*
It’s no doubt that Cruz Pressure Wash LLC will increase curb appeal and the value of your home. Take care of the little things that add up, and check out Cruz Pressure Washing LLC. You can contact him @ 513. 288. 8829 | cruzpressurewashing@outlook.com. Also, make sure to checkout his website cruzpressurewashing.com.
Do you want to be featured in my Small Business Spotlight? Feel free to email me: hdowns@sibcycline.com. I’d love to learn more about you and your small business! #SupportLocal