El Barril...The Best Mexican food and drink in and out of the city
Our multi-brand fashion store offers a selection from world-renowned and emerging designers, with a focus on ethically-produced and sustainable products. 1230 Vine Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 (513) 381-4059
Friends,
On behalf of the City of Cincinnati, I am thrilled to welcome you! We are honored to host you in our great city, and I can’t wait for you to learn all about what makes us special.
You’re going to have a wonderful stay as you get to know our 52 diverse, vibrant, and walkable neighborhoods. Each community in our city is home to distinct and rich cultures, business centers, and personalities – but together, they make up one unified and proud Cincinnati. From downtown to College Hill, from the West Side to the East Side, you will find stunning architecture, exciting entertainment opportunities, and energetic residents ready to welcome you. We love our home, and we can’t wait to show you why.
Key Magazine Cincinnati is a great resource for learning about all the amazing attractions we have to offer in the area. With top-rated museums, theaters, parks, and restaurants – and one of the highest ranked zoos in the nation – there is something for everyone in the Queen City.
We are honored to welcome thousands of visitors among our guests each year, and we know your decision to visit will not leave you disappointed. Thank you for coming to Cincinnati, and we’re excited to see you back here soon.
Sincerely,
Aftab Pureval Mayor, City of Cincinnati
www.idlewildwoman.com
Fabulous 12-month TOTAL INTERIOR and EXTERIOR REMODEL in the exclusive Catavina neighborhood in North Scottsdale 85259! 4522sf single story home on .79 acre lot with 5 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths and 4 Car Garage. Surrounded by breathtaking multi-million-dollar mountain views and featuring exceptional curb appeal and elevation, this newly transformed dream home is a true one-of-a-kind gem crafted to offer the ultimate Scottsdale living experience.
Call Penny Klinger with RE/MAX Fine Properties about this property or for any of your real estate needs! 480-828-6222
21020 North Pima Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Mobile: (480) 828-6222
Fax: (480) 776-8410 Email: pennyklinger1@gmail.com
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and the trademarks KEY and KEY design are licensed by Key Magazines, Inc ., P.O . Box 37137,
Ohio 45222 . Distributed free in hotels, motels, restaurants, transportation center and clubs in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky All rights reserved Reproduction of any material prepared by Key/Cincinnati Magazine is prohibited without consent of the publisher Bulk convention orders filled upon request For advertising information call Patty Youkilis at 513-235-7965 or patty@keycincinnati .com . If you are running low of the current month’s issue, please call 513-235-7965 for re-stock .
El Barril. This is literally our favorite Mexican restaurant! The atmosphere….several dining options available from outside on the covered patio with heat lamps for chilly nights…..in the bar area with so many large screens to watch all of your favorite sports with a fully stocked bar including wine, cocktails, beer and margaritas in tons of flavors….and one more dining area in addition!
El Barril has the best cozy neighborhood feel….hopping and casual! Gather with family and friends, they easily accommodate small and large groups, along with it being kid friendly when needed!
Let’s get to the food….PLENTIFUL is an understatement!
Fajitas, tacos, nachos, and other Mexican eats….burgers…salads….and so much more….round out the menu!!!
How about the specials…..SO MANY!
Located in the historic Cincinnati neighborhood of Mount Adams, and in New Richmond…..El Barril serves Mexican-inspired
bar food, traditional dishes and vegetarian options.
El Barril also does catering for large groups, and private rooms for events. Unlock the true taste of Mexico at El Barril. Come enjoy with family, with friends, or solo! All are welcome!
EL BARRIL DAILY SPECIALS
• Margarita Monday: $6 margaritas
• Taco Tuesday: $2.50 any taco
• BOGO Wednesday: Buy one entree, get a second half off
• Burrito Bowl Thursday: $10
• Pitcher Friday: $20 margarita / $10 domestic pitcher
• Super Tower Saturday: $35 marg towers (100 ounces!)
• Sunday Funday: $2.50 kids meal (one per adult) $5 off beer buckets (import and domestic)
• Cinco de mayo specials: All day Happy Hour!!! Free chips and Salsa (with beverages/ food), $15 Birria Quesadillas!
ARONOFF CENTER FOR THE ARTS
650 Walnut Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-621-2787 [ARTS]
Abbafab: 4/3
Million Dollar Time Machine: 4/4
Wild Kratts Live! 2.0: Activate Creature Power!: 4/5 & Juliet: 4/8-4/20
The Glenn Miller Orchestra: 4/30
BOGART’S
2621 Vine St.: 9/3-9/15
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513-872-8801
Judah & The Lion: 4/4
Bossman DLow: 4/5
Pouya: 4/10
Leprous: Melodies of Atonement: 4/12
United We Dance: The Ultimate Rave Experience 18+: 4/18
Twiztid: 4/19
Elderbrook: 4/23
Emo Nite at Bogart’s 18+: 4/25
Bingo Loco 21+: 4/26
Iann Dior: 4/30
CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM
953 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-ARTS (2787)
Shahzia Sikander: Collective Behavior: 2/14-5/4
Cycle Thru! The Art of the Bike: 4/4-8/24
Tintoretto’s Genesis: 4/18-8/31
CINCINNATI BALLET COMPANY
1555 Central Parkway Cincinnati, OH 45214
513-621-5219
Family Series: Snow White: 4/244/27
CINCINNATI CYCLONES vs. Wings: 4/4 vs. Walleye: 4/5
CINCINNATI CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
105 West 4th St. Suite 314 Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-723-1182
Moviemusik: Summermusik
2025 Season Announcement at the Kenwood Theatre: 4/4
CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER
1301 Western Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45203
513-287-7000
Julia Child: A Recipe for Life: 2/15/18
CINCINNATI PLAYHOUSE IN THE PARK
962 Mt. Adams Circle Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-3888 (Box Office)
The Book Club Play: 3/22-4/20
Birthday Candles: 4/19-5/18
CINCINNATI POPS ORCHESTRA
1241 Elm Street Cincinnati, OH 45202
General Information: 513-6211919 or Box Office: 513-3813300
Ben Folds Five: 4/15
CINCINNATI SHAKESPEARE COMPANY
719 Race Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-381-2273
The Tempest: 4/11-5/4
CINCINNATI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
1241 Elm Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
General Information: 513-6211919 or Box Office: 513-3813300
Strauss Alpine Symphony: 4/54/6
Beethoven Symphony No. 3:
ART BEYOND BOUNDARIES
1410 Main Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-8726
‘REBOOT’ The Spring Show: Opening 4/19
4/18-4/19
Mahler Symphony No. 6: 4/254/26
CINCINNATI ZOO
3400 Vine Street
Cincinnati, OH 45220
513-281-4700
Zoo Blooms: 4/1-4/30
CONTEMPORARY ARTS CENTER
44 E. 6th St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-345-8400
Vivian Browne: My Kind of Protest: 1/31-5/25
Paul Wrigth: The Anti-Robot Inundation Army: 4/17-6/1
ENSEMBLE THEATRE CINCINNATI
1127 Vine St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-3555
The Sound Inside: 4/5-4/27
FC CINCINNATI
vs. New England: 4/5 vs. Kansas City: 4/26
GO BANANAS COMEDY CLUB
8410 Market Place Lane
Cincinnati, OH 45242 513-984-9288
Alphas Comedy Graduation Show: 4/1
Doug Stanhope: 4/3-4/4
Brendan Eyre: 4/10-4/13
Tyrone Hawkins: 4/17-4/20
HERITAGE BANK CENTER
100 Broadway
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-4111
Disney On Ice Presents Magic in the Stars: 4/104/13
Katt Williams: 4/19
KROHN CONSERVATORY
1501 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-4086
Emerge: 3/1-4/20
MUSIC HALL
1241 Elm St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-621-2787 (ARTS)
Thee Phantom and the Illharmonic Orchestra: Hip-Hop Orchestra in Cincinnati 2025: 4/12
Silent Movies Made Musical with the Mighty Wurlitzer: 4/24
NANCY AND DAVID WOLF HOLOCAUST & HUMANITY CENTER
1301 Western Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45203
513-487-3055
Weekly Holocaust Speaker Series via Zoom every Wednesday at 11:00am: https://www.holocaustandhumanity.org/speaker-series/ Little Acts, Big Impace: Mini Upstander Play Sessions with The Children’s Theatre: 4/12 2025 Yom HaShoah Commemoration: 4/27
TAFT MUSUEM OF ART
316 Pike St. Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-241-0343
Mystery and Benevolence: Masonic and Odd
Fellows Folk Art: 2/1-5/11
J.M.W. Turner: Watercolor Horizons: 3/1-6/15
TAFT THEATRE
317 E. 5th St. Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-232-6220
The Righteous Brothers: 4/1
Trisha Paytas: 4/4
John Waite: 4/5
The Tallest Man on Earth: 4/10
Geoff Tate: 4/12
The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain: 4/13
Alton Brown: 4/17
Disney’s Frozen Jr.: 4/26-5/4
WESTON ART GALLERY
650 Walnut St. Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-977-4165
2025 Canstruction: 4/1-4/13
On the Shoulders of Ancestors: The Art of Willis
“Bing” Davis: 4/25-6/8
James Pate: Redacted: 4/25-6/8
Homing Instinct: Letting Go of the Shore: 4/25-6/8
Kings Island Opening Day
6300 Kings Island Dr. Mason, OH 4/19
Asian Food Fest Court Street Plaza
E. Court St. (Between Vine St. & Walnut St.)
OH 4/26-4/27
Indianapolis is one of my favorite getaway cities… After four years of being away it was time to get back!
We jumped in the car and drove a fast 1.5 hours to Indy. We had so much to do in just a few days, so the first stop was the Alexander, A Dolce Hotel, to drop off luggage. The hotel has a $3 million collection of curated and commissioned art from local to international artists.
The hotel is located on the 99th plat of the city, which inspired the bar name, Plat 99. The bar was designed by Jorge Pardo, a Cuban-American artist and sculptor.
It is absolutely my favorite hotel.
Off to see the city!
First stop at Newfields… The Indianapolis Museum of Art, which has grown to become an internationally renowned museum. They’ve definitely turned their attention toward increasing emphasis on combining art with nature.
The galleries are surrounded by gardens, water features, over a hundred acres of woodland filled with surprise and beauty. The campus itself is ideal for performances, afternoon walks, kite-flying, cloud-gazing, memorymaking, new-idea-having. There’s a mansion to stage unforgettable events, restaurants for relaxing, bars for microbrews and friendships. And…Robert Indiana’s iconic LOVE sculpture! THE LUME at Newfields returns this May with a new featured artist, showcasing artwork across immersive floor-to-ceiling digital gallery spaces.
Time for wine! Solely Wine is a natural and low-intervention wine bar that opened in September 2024. it quickly has become a destination spot where the Monon Trail crosses 16th Street. It is women-owned. Great vibe for sure!
I need to pay homage to the fabulous restaurants we dined in…
Magdalena, located in the Fountain Square neighborhood, is a cocktail bar and restaurant that has a bit of New Orleans flair.
Magdalena is a new concept from Nick
Detrich, co-founder of several of New Orleans’ finest cocktail destinations (Jewel of the South, Manolito, Cane & Table), and recognized by the James Beard Foundation, and the Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards. Detrich is joined in this project by Baylee Pruitt, formerly of Giant (Chicago) and Jaguar Sun (Miami). It was FABULOUS!
Bluebeard was a repeat for us….cool vibe with excellent food and drink! Named after Indianapolis native, Kurt Vonnegut’s book, Bluebeard. In 2012 it became a James Beard Award semi-finalist for Best New Restaurant in America. Superior Octopus. Killer dirty martini.
Commission Row stands out among steak restaurants in Downtown Indy by offering guests the highest quality steaks, raw bar, and seafood. Artfully curated, the menu is created as a culinary crossroad intended to delight the palate with each and every dish. The cuisine showcases seasonal ingredients along with an expertly paired wine and spirits menu. PERFECT for pre-Pacer games!
Mel’s Speakeasy…..After enjoying dinner at Commission Row, unwind with an after-dinner drink at the adjoining Mel’s Speakeasy. Mel’s offers a wide selection of wine, cocktails, and spirits in a cozy, intimate setting.
The Waygu Meatballs. A MUST…And… the dirty Martini, served with a sidecar. Trust me!
OK, we did attend a Pacers basketball game! It was Pacers vs Bucks, and I will forever remember the incredible shot by Haliburton of the Pacers to win the game. So fun!
Two nights and two days… Packed with Entertainment and amazing food.
Here are a few suggestions for the upcoming months….
• Indianapolis Cultural Trail is now 10-miles long, connecting to various downtown neighborhoods and providing the best way to explore Indy from the back of a bike seat.
• The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is celebrating its centennial with exciting new exhibits, includingMickey Mouse Clubhouse (curated in partnership with Disney before its Midwest tour), the Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design exhibition (featuring 60 original costumes), and a brand-new 110-foot Ferris wheel.
• Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum Upgrades: The legendary IMS reopens April 2 following an $89 million renovation, introducing cutting-edge tech and immersive sensory experiences—allowing kids (and adults!) to experience the Indy 500 any day of the week.
• America’s Newest River City: A major waterway revitalization effort has transformed downtown Indy, including the opening of its first-ever livery, Frank’s Paddlesports Livery. Offering canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, this new waterway activation gives visitors a fresh way to explore the city. Over 4,000 people explored Indy via Frank’s last year, its first year in business.
Visit Indy…fabulous and fun!
reStaUrant of the month
For nearly 30 years, Nicola’s has been a beloved cornerstone of Cincinnati’s fine dining scene, known for its impeccable Italian cuisine, warm hospitality, and timeless charm. As we look ahead to the future, we’re excited to announce that Nicola’s will be moving to 127 W 4th Street in 2026.
This transition marks a new chapter for Nicola’s while preserving the legacy that has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Guests can expect the same dedication to quality, handcrafted pastas, and
exceptional wine selection that have defined our reputation. Though we say goodbye to our current space, we will carry forward the spirit of innovation and excellence that has defined both Pigall’s and Nicola’s.
Stay tuned for more details as we prepare for this exciting move. In the meantime, we invite you to dine with us and create lasting memories at Nicola’s as we celebrate!
Follow us on social media @nicolasotr for updates!
This show will display an eclectic group of local and regional artists with disabilities.
’REBOOT: The Spring Show’, This show will be on display at Art Beyond Boundaries Gallery, 1410 Main Street, in the Over-the-Rhine arts district of the Cincinnati area. The opening reception will be Saturday, April 19, 2025, 5 pm to 7 pm, Wine & Hors d’oeuvres will be served.
Art Beyond Boundaries provides a professional, mainstream fine arts exhibition venue for artists with disabilities, located at 1410 Main Street in the historic Over-the-Rhine arts district. With your support, we can continue providing a gallery, workshops, programs, and services for our artists and people with disabilities. For more information, “friend” or “follow” the gallery on Facebook, Instagram, and/or contact the gallery.
6111 Montgomery Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45213
513-620-8526
Our mission at Café Alma is to encourage the habit of healthy eating, living a well-balanced lifestyle and spreading the knowledge we have about the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet.
3514 Erie Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45208
513-818-8720
Bustling, light-filled option for rustic Italian entrees & pizza plus wine & craft cocktails.
6860 Plainfield Rd.
Cincinnati, OH 45236
513-791-7000
A brewery with a scratch kitchen making sustainable choices from the onset of each project. We love beer and believe beer is best with a good meal with locally sourced food.
4618 Eastern Ave.
Cincinnati, OH 45226
513-533-4222
A quirky joint doling out beers and jumbo burgers with adventurous toppings in a neon-lit room.
EL BARRIL
940 Pavilion St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-381-6112
Mexican inspired sports bar in historic Mt Adams!
1505 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-873-1995
The heart of Fillo’s dinner menu lies in its Mezedes - traditional Greek small plates designed for sharing and celebrating the joys of togetherness. From classic favorites like tzatziki and spicy feta dip to irresistible moussaka, each meze bursts with the authentic flavors of Greece, prepared with love and care.
115 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-421-2337
Prominently situated in the dynamic Smale Riverfront Park, the Moerlein Lager House offers a guest experience unlike any other - a working microbrewery producing a full line of Moerlein craft brews and delectable fare reminiscent of foods served in the city’s celebrated 19th century beer gardens.
1420 Sycamore St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-6200
Chic venue presenting contemporary Italian cuisine in a warm space with exposed-brick walls.
580 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-579-0720
Known for its USDA Prime Steaks, exquisite cuisine, extensive wine selectionand outstanding service.
520 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-721-8483
Elevated Italian dishes in an upmarket restaurant with a bar serving wine, beer & craft cocktails.
FORNO
9415 Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45242
513-231-5555
Italian plates, including wood-fired pizza, served in a rustic setting with a fireplace.
MAGGIANO’S LITTLE ITALY
7875 Montgomery Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45236
Reservations: (513) 794-0670
Carryout: (513) 794-0676
Banquets: (513) 794-0672
Stop by Maggiano’s at Kenwood Towne Centre for season-fresh Italian food in Cincinnati, prepared by Chef Karl Lenz and inspired by Nonna’s traditional recipes.
COPPINS AT HOTEL COVINGTON
638 Madison Ave, Covington, KY 41011
859-905-6800
Locally sourced New American fare & cocktails in a rustic-chic gastropub at Hotel Covington.
GRANDVIEW TAVERN
2220 Grandview Dr. Fort Mitchell, KY 41017
859-341-8439
One of Northern Kentucky’s premier food and beverage entertainment business. Established in 2007 and still going strong. Over a decade of research and development has forged a casual upscale concept, second to none.
THE ORIGINAL MONTGOMERY INN
9440 Montgomery Rd. Montgomery, OH 45242
513-791-3482
Cincinnati’s famous rib joint!
THE PARK POUR
4815 Cooper Road Blue Ash, Ohio 45242
513-376-7247
Great coffee, light bites, cocktails and exciting wines. A comfortably familiar spot for conversation with friends, work meetups or grabbing a bottle of wine on your way home.
THE KNOWLEDGE BAR & SOCIAL ROOM
620 Madison Ave, Covington, KY 41011
859-905-6713
Vibrant bar offering a vast array of spirits and classic cocktails, plus tapas.
IDLEWILD – OTR
1230 Vine Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 (513) 381-4059
SLOANE BOUTIQUE – OTR
1216 Vine St. Cincinnati, OH 45202 513-579-8111
LANE & KATE – OTR
1417 Vine St. Cincinnati, OH 45202 513-381-1122
LULU’S BOUTIQUE
6145 Bridgetown Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45248 513-574-0839
ADC FINE ART
1013 York St. Cincinnati, OH 45214 513-723-1222
APPOINTMENTS
441 Vine St. #20 Cincinnati, OH 45202 513-421-7430
CINCY SHIRTS
1435 Main St. Cincinnati, OH 513-510-5774
295 W. Loveland Ave. Loveland, OH 45140 513-340-4373
EDDIE LANE’S DIAMOND SHOWROOM
9301 Montgomery Rd, Montgomery, OH 45242 513-793-4111
UPPER EDEN
1120 St. Gregory St, Cincinnati, OH 45202 513-421-1120
JACOB JAMES
3446 Edwards Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45208 513-376-6288
DEERFIELD TOWNE CENTER
5505 Deerfield Blvd. Deerfield, OH 513-770-0273
EASTGATE MALL
4601 Eastgate Blvd Cincinnati, OH 513-752-2294
FLORENCE MALL
2028 Mall Road Florence, KY 859-371-1231
KENWOOD TOWNE CENTER
7875 Montgomery Road Cincinnati, OH 513-745-9100
LIBERTY CENTER
7628 Liberty Way West Chester, OH 513-644-0900
NEWPORT ON THE LEVEE
1 Levee Way
Newport, KY 866-538-3359
NORTHGATE MALL
9501 Colerain Avenue Cincinnati, OH 513-385-5600
ROOKWOOD PAVILION
3805 Edwards Road Cincinnati, OH 513-241-5800
SYCAMORE CROSSING/ PLAZA
7800-7896 Montgomery Rd. Cincinnati, OH 877-225-5337
VOICE OF AMERICA CENTRE
7598 Voice of America Drive West Chester, OH 513-792-5000
OUTLET MALLS
Cincinnati Premium Outlets
400 Premium Outlets Drive Monroe, OH 513-539-0710
Tanger Outlets
8000 Factory Shops Blvd. Jeffersonville, OH 740-948-9091/800-407-5005
Kurtzman Plastic Surgery offers procedures that can help you put your best face (legs, midsection, bust-line, and so much more!) forward. Dr. Lawrence Kurtzman is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience. He provides top-notch care in a comfortable, private, positive environment. As a solo practi tioner, Dr. Kurtzman is available for his patients 24/7. He offers personalized care for every patient. Procedures performed in-office or surgery center, which is far more pleasant and personal than a hospital – and provides a smoother and quicker in and out for patients.
Dr. Lawrence Kurtzman, board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery – it does make a difference.
NEVER SETTLE!
For men and women…Also offering MiraDryTM for excessive sweating, and NeoGraftTM for hair thinning and loss
Margarita Monday: $6 margaritas
Taco Tuesday: $2.50 any taco!
BOGO Wednesday:
Buy one entree get a second half off Burrito Bowl Thursday: $10
Pitcher Friday: $20 margarita / $10 domestic pitcher
Super Tower Saturday: $35 marg towers (100 ounces!)
Sunday Funday :
$2.50 kids meal (one per adult) $5 off beer buckets (import and domestic)
Cinco de mayo specials: All day Happy Hour! Free chips and Salsa (with beverages/food), $15 Birria Quesadillas!
Monday-Thursday 11 am-10 pm • Friday and Saturday 11 am-11 pm
(513) 381-6112 940 Pavilion Street Cincinnati, OH 45202
Sunday 11 am-9:30 pm (513) 449-4781 1101 Front Street New Richmond, OH 45157