of the
EAST
Cincy eastsiders really love the east. Eight hundred people attended our inaugural Best of the East party and thanks to their votes, we now have a list of the best restaurants, retail and recreational activities from the Eastside. Go ahead and bask in their greatness. Cincy Magazine partnered with the Clermont Chamber of Commerce to host this event, which was sponsored by TriHealth and the Miami Valley Christian Academy. Proceeds benefited Beech Acres Parenting Center.
By Corinne Minard, Maggie Heath & Alex Weaver
FOOD BEST BAGEL
Everything Bagels Bagels aren’t just for breakfast. While this local favorite does have bagel breakfast sandwiches, they serve lunches and snack foods, too. And, true to their name, everything is indeed bagels. Even the salads are served with bagel chips on the side. 792 Eastgate South Dr., Ste. 200. 513-947-2245. BEST BAKERY
Becknell’s Bakery You’ll be fighting with yourself over whether to eat or just look at Becknell’s custom cakes. Mother-daughter duo Paula and Cory Becknell make everything to fit each individual client, so no two cakes are the same. Cakes shaped like guitars, army tanks and iPhones have all rolled out of this bakery. If you don’t love traditional cake, they also make custom cupcakes, cookies and their specialty cake balls. 960 Kennedys Landing, Ste. 1. 513-947-2253, becknellsbakery.com. BEST BREAKFAST
First Watch Those looking for a quality breakfast only need to find the closest First Watch. While they offer the breakfast staples of coffee, 30
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pancakes and eggs, they also serve food for the more adventurous eater. Try the Chickichanga (eggs with chicken, chorizo and green chilies in a flour tortilla) or C’est La Vie omelet with zucchini and goat cheese for a special start to your day. Multiple locations. firstwatch.com.
BEST CHEF
Sean Daly, The National Exemplar Sean Daly is man who is not afraid to get greasy and dirty behind the kitchen line. A chef for 13 years, he has worked in places such as Magnolia’s in Charleston, S.C.; owned his own restaurant, Hugo; and is now general manager and executive chef at The National Exemplar, where he enjoys working with fresh fish and making simple yet creative items that are different every week. For example, he uses carrots, cauliflower, spinach and grilled lemon to make the menu staple of swordfish into an outstanding dish. 6880 Wooster Pike, Mariemont. 513-271-2103, nationalexemplar.com. BEST BBQ
BEST BURGER
Terry’s Turf Club Having been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Terry’s Turf Club is known for their monster burgers. With gourmet options like foie gras on the menu, it’s easy to be intimidated. One look around at the charmingly kitschy décor and peanut shelllittered floor, and you’ll immediately relax. It’s a burger joint through and through. 4618 Eastern Ave. 513-533-4222.
Just Q’in Barbeque Some may say eating barbeque is a religious experience and Just Q’in Barbeque would have to agree. They aim to serve God while serving barbecue, even naming their dishes after biblical people and events. Order the Goliath (beef brisket with two sides) for yourself or the Not the Last Supper (two slabs of ribs, two pounds of pulled pork, two side items and more) to feed eight to 10. 6901 Valley Ave., Newtown. 513-827-0722, justqin.com.