My partner Dave and I recently found ourselves in Southern Ohio, attending the wedding of a dear friend from law school. Beyond the joyous occasion, we were excited to explore Cincinnati’s vibrant culinary scene, thanks to recommendations from both a local coworker and the bride herself. The Over-The-Rhine (OTR) neighborhood emerged as a must-visit destination, and within it, Abigail Street stood out, promising a delightful dining experience with numerous vegetarian options and glowing reviews across various platforms. Initially, I was concerned about potential wait times, but arriving at Abigail Street around 5:45 PM proved to be perfect timing. We were promptly seated, though it was evident that the restaurant’s popularity was well-deserved as it filled to capacity shortly after we settled in.
Abigail Street Restaurant Front Entrance in Over-the-Rhine Cincinnati
A Mediterranean Tapas Haven in OTR
Established in 2011, Abigail Street Cincinnati has carved a niche for itself by offering a unique tapas-style menu infused with Mediterranean flavors. Our attentive server informed us that the menu is thoughtfully curated and seasonally adjusted, ensuring fresh and exciting options throughout the year. While some of the specific dishes we savored might be seasonal, I am confident that the consistently high quality and creative culinary approach at Abigail Street will impress regardless of when you visit. The restaurant’s commitment to the tapas concept provides a refreshing departure from typical dining experiences, and while we’ve explored tapas restaurants in other cities, none have quite captured our hearts in Northeast Ohio like Abigail Street. This dining experience alone has made us wish we lived closer to Cincinnati and affirmed that Abigail Street is undoubtedly worth a special trip.
Abigail Street Menu with Icons for Meat, Fish, and Vegetarian Options
Drinks and Menu Design at Abigail Street Cincinnati
One detail that immediately caught my eye was the clever use of icons in Abigail Street’s logo and menu design. A cleaver denoted meat dishes, an anchor symbolized seafood selections, and a carrot elegantly marked vegetarian options. This visual clarity made navigating the menu and making informed choices incredibly easy, especially for those with dietary preferences. To complement the food, Abigail Street boasts a well-rounded beverage program featuring wine on tap, a curated selection of bottled beers, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Abigail Street Bar Area with Drinks and Wine on Tap
For my drink, I opted for the Lemon-Thyme Fizz, requesting vodka instead of the standard gin. The resulting cocktail was wonderfully light and refreshing – an ideal choice for a summer evening.
Abigail Street Lemon-Thyme Fizz Cocktail
Abigail Street Sangria Del Dia Cocktail
Dave chose the Sangria Del Dia, a vibrant mix of wine, ginger, and peach. He thoroughly enjoyed its light and crisp profile, expressing satisfaction with his selection as a perfect complement to the tapas we were about to indulge in.
Abigail Street Drinks – Lemon-Thyme Fizz and Sangria Del Dia
Tapas to Share: A Culinary Journey
We were advised that ordering two tapas per person is generally recommended at Abigail Street. However, knowing we planned to explore more of Cincinnati’s food scene that evening, we opted to share three tapas dishes. Choosing from the enticing menu proved to be a delightful challenge. Our culinary adventure began with the Heirloom Tomato and Peach Salad.
Heirloom Tomato and Peach Salad
The description alone was enough to pique my interest: “Local heirloom tomatoes, peach, burrata, basil, bread crumbs, poppy seeds & balsamic reduction.” This tapas lived up to and exceeded my expectations. The combination of ripe, juicy tomatoes and sweet peaches was harmonious, while the creamy burrata and tangy balsamic reduction beautifully unified the flavors. Dave particularly appreciated the textural contrast provided by the poppy seeds, adding an unexpected element to the dish.
Abigail Street Heirloom Tomato and Peach Salad Tapas
Abigail Street Restaurant Front Entrance in Over-the-Rhine Cincinnati
Crispy Falafel
For our second tapas, we unanimously agreed on the Crispy Falafel, described as: “Crispy chickpea fritters, fire-roasted baba ghanoush, mint, onion, tahini & chickpea.” Visually appealing with a golden-brown hue and generous sprinkle of parsley, the falafel did not disappoint in flavor either. The fritters were indeed crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside, and the accompanying baba ghanoush added a smoky, rich depth to each bite.
Abigail Street Crispy Falafel Tapas Dish
Close-up of Abigail Street Crispy Falafel
Potato and Ricotta Gnocchi
Dave’s personal choice was the Potato and Ricotta Gnocchi, which promised to be the most intricate dish of our selection: “Potato ricotta gnocchi, mitake mushrooms, melted leeks, Basil-pea puree, asparagus & brown butter.” This final tapas proved to be a culinary masterpiece. The gnocchi themselves were perfectly executed – boasting a delightful crispness on the exterior and a soft, pillowy interior. The accompanying sauce skillfully harmonized all the elements, but the true magic lay in combining a single bite of gnocchi with a mushroom, a piece of asparagus, and a touch of the flavorful sauce – an unforgettable symphony of textures and tastes.
Abigail Street Potato and Ricotta Gnocchi Tapas
Close-up of Abigail Street Potato and Ricotta Gnocchi
Final Thoughts on Abigail Street Cincinnati
Our dining experience at Abigail Street in Cincinnati’s Over-The-Rhine was truly exceptional. From the inviting ambiance and thoughtful menu design to the innovative and delicious tapas, every aspect contributed to a memorable meal. If you are seeking a restaurant that offers a unique culinary perspective, a vibrant atmosphere, and a prime location in OTR, Abigail Street should be at the top of your list. Whether you are a local Cincinnatian or a visitor exploring the city’s gastronomic delights, Abigail Street promises a dining experience that is both satisfying and unforgettable.
