A day at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a delightful adventure, filled with fascinating animals, lush greenery, and exciting encounters.
But after a thrilling morning spotting majestic lions or playful penguins, your stomach might start rumbling. Luckily, there are a variety of delicious dining options waiting for you just outside the zoo gates!
Whether you crave a casual bite, a family-friendly atmosphere, or a unique culinary experience, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds near the zoo. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular spots to grab a bite after your zoo adventure.
On-Site Options: Convenience at Your Fingertips
If you’re looking for a quick and convenient option, the Cincinnati Zoo itself offers a few dining choices:
Base Camp Café: This casual café serves up classic American fare like burgers, made with fresh, never frozen beef patties, hot dogs, and sandwiches piled high with delicious toppings.
They also offer salads, wraps with a variety of fillings, and kid-friendly options like chicken tenders and mac and cheese.
Hops: For a taste of Cincinnati’s craft beer scene and a chance to unwind after a busy day at the zoo, head to Hops.
Enjoy a refreshing local brew alongside delicious flatbreads with unique toppings, gourmet nachos loaded with all the fixings, or pastas made with fresh ingredients while overlooking the scenic Roo Valley and the Kanga Klimb adventure ropes course.
The Grove: This outdoor dining area offers a variety of food vendors, perfect for families or groups with diverse palates.
Here you can find options like delicious chicken and waffles, hand-breaded chicken tenders tossed in your choice of sauce, juicy burgers with all the classic toppings, veggie burgers for those seeking a plant-based option, and even funnel cakes and soft pretzels for a sweet treat.
Venturing Out: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
If you’re looking to explore beyond the zoo gates and experience the vibrant dining scene of Cincinnati, here are some fantastic options within walking distance:
Proud Rooster Restaurant: Just a short stroll away, Proud Rooster serves up classic comfort food in a cozy, diner-style setting.
Their menu features breakfast favorites like omelets made with fresh eggs and your choice of fillings and fluffy pancakes, as well as lunch and dinner options like juicy burgers piled high with toppings, hearty sandwiches on fresh-baked bread, and fresh salads with a variety of dressings.
Metropole: For a more upscale experience with a sophisticated ambiance, Metropole offers innovative American cuisine in a stylish setting.
Their menu changes seasonally, featuring fresh, local ingredients and creative dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Eli’s BBQ: Calling all barbecue lovers! Eli’s BBQ is a local favorite known for its slow-smoked meats, cooked to perfection using traditional methods.
They offer a variety of delicious sides, from creamy coleslaw and tangy baked beans to crispy french fries and onion rings, all served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere with friendly service.
Ethnic Flavors: A World of Taste on Your Plate
If you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons and experience the vibrant flavors of global cuisine, there are several ethnic restaurants near the zoo waiting to be discovered:
LaRosa’s Pizzeria: Cincinnati is known for its unique style of pizza, featuring a thin crust cooked to a crispy perfection and a generous layer of cheese. LaRosa’s is a local institution offering classic and specialty pizzas, perfect for a casual and satisfying meal.
Choose from a variety of toppings or try one of their signature pizzas like the “King Tut” with pepperoni, salami, ham, and Italian sausage, or the “Chicken Bacon Ranch” with a creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon.
A Tavola Osteria: This charming Italian eatery features a menu of fresh pastas made in-house daily, pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven, and other Italian classics made with authentic ingredients imported from Italy.
Enjoy a steaming plate of spaghetti bolognese, a delicious slice of Margherita pizza with a perfectly blistered crust, or a mouthwatering chicken Parmesan dish.
Mayuri Indian Cuisine: Experience the vibrant flavors of India at Mayuri. Their menu offers a variety of curries, simmered to perfection with a blend of aromatic spices, tandoori dishes featuring marinated meats and vegetables.
It is cooked in a clay oven, and vegetarian options like vegetable pakoras and lentil daal, perfect for adventurous palates who want to explore the delicious world of Indian cuisine.
Sweet Treats: The Perfect End to a Perfect Day
No day out is complete without a sweet treat! Here are a few dessert options near the zoo to help you end your Cincinnati adventure on a high note:
Graeter’s Ice Cream: A trip to Cincinnati wouldn’t be complete without indulging in some Graeter’s ice cream. This local favorite boasts unique flavors made with fresh ingredients and a rich, creamy texture unlike any other.
They offer classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, as well as more adventurous options like black cherry chip or their signature “French Pot Roast” with chunks of chocolate and rum-soaked raisins.
Duff’s Cakemix: If you’re craving a slice of cake or a decadent cupcake, Duff’s Cakemix has you covered.
They offer a variety of flavors and designs, from classic red velvet and chocolate to trendy options like salted caramel and funfetti. They also offer delicious cupcakes in an array of flavors, perfect for a smaller indulgence or to share with friends and family.
The Donut Pantry: For a classic donut experience, The Donut Pantry offers fresh-made donuts in a wide variety of flavors and toppings.
They have cake donuts, glazed donuts, and raised donuts, all made daily using high-quality ingredients. Choose from classic toppings like chocolate glaze and sprinkles, or try something more adventurous like maple bacon or Fruity Pebbles.
No matter your craving, there’s something for everyone near the Cincinnati Zoo.
From casual cafes with kid-friendly options to upscale restaurants with innovative cuisine and ethnic flavors that will transport you around the world, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to refuel and create lasting memories of your Cincinnati adventure.
So, after a day exploring the wonders of the animal kingdom, take some time to explore the culinary delights awaiting you in the surrounding area. With its diverse range of restaurants and delicious treats, the area around the Cincinnati Zoo offers the perfect way to end your day on a sweet note.