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Recommended Reviews - Alara

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Lauren J.

Visited Alara for a family new era birthday and it was the perfect location! A good switch up for fine dining from the regulars, so a a must checkout place. They have a great cocktail and wine menu. Everyone was able to find something to enough and they even put personal touches to finish the beverage. The food menu while not huge had a little bit of everything to meet anyone's palette. I enjoyed the Beef Tip Pappardelle, which was fantastic! I loved the burrata inclusion in the dish and even had some to take home. The service was great and everyone left happy and full! I hear they have a good happy hour, which I'll have to check out sometime.

Olivia M.

If you're looking for elevated vibes, stunning décor, and a menu that delivers both flavor and flair--Alara is it. From the moment you walk in, the ambiance feels like something out of a chic big-city lounge, but with that signature Cincy charm. We came for my bday and were blown away. The drinks? Immaculate. Thoughtfully crafted cocktails with just the right balance of bold and smooth. The food? Every bite was a vibe--creative, fresh, and beautifully plated. (The chicken Milanese was Chef's kiss.) Service was top-notch, too. Attentive without being overbearing, and they made us feel like VIPs from start to finish. Whether you're celebrating something special or just want to feel a little fancy on a random Thursday, Alara checks every box. Already planning my next visit!

Chicken Pomodoro
Soriah B.

We went to Alara to celebrate my in-laws anniversary and it was such a wonderful experience. My first impression was calling the restaurant to confirm their dress code and I got Dylan on the phone. He was very warm, polite and welcoming when answering my question. Parking was easy and getting to the restaurant from the parking garage was fairly simple. Interior was upscale and the lighting was very easy on the eyes. The seating was very comfortable. The service? Incredible. The manager and the waiter greeted us and took care of us. They were very personable and made sure that the rest of the staff was made aware of a shellfish allergy from my father in law. They even took a step further to inform him of the any sauces that could contain fish sauce. They were very attentive and it was great. Now to the food. The Focaccia was more on the toasted side but that truffle butter was divine. Oh my goodness, if they could just sell that in stores, that would be amazing. Had potato wedges and it was alright. The truffle butter elevated the taste. Chicken Pomodoro: EXCEEDED expectations. The chicken was so fresh, so tender, made with care, ohh my goodness. The sauce? Incredible. Flavorful, fresh, almost damn near perfect. Like the portions were great. I tore that plate up. Here's the thing: I'm being completely honest here. As far as tomato dishes go? This was the best tomato pasta dish ever. My husband had the steak and it was cooked perfectly!! We've been to several places where a steak was burned or cold but not at Alara. I had a bite and was very pleased. My mother in law said that the pork chops were incredible and the strawberry-pomegranate gastrique gave it a nice balance. I do not eat pork but this was the most prettiest, well plated pork chop that I have seen. The dessert was great. I think this is an excellent date night spot, elevated experience with friends, or just want to have an amazing meal with incredible service.

Lobster Mac + cheese
Ashley C.

Most Improved! What a difference a year makes. I'm glad I gave Alara a second chance--they really surprised me today. The Chicken Milanese was perfect, and the mac & cheese came out hot (without breadcrumbs, just the way I like it). The cocktails did not disappoint--Mi Amaro was my favorite. I wasn't impressed when they first opened, but they've definitely stepped it up.

Sauces to accompany the Australian waguye strip
Douglas K.

Our server was Devin and she was super friendly and helpful. I will request her next time I come back. The food was served hot, fresh and quickly. And every dish from appetizers to the amazing desserts were 10 out of 10! Perfect for date night and all special occasions. Make sure you ask for Devin - she will give you the best experience

Anna O.

Came for happy hour, they have sliders for $4. They were pretty good and juicy although my burger was overcooked. The other two were great. They are sliders so I know you don't get much, but the toppings on them felt small. $2 off wine, $6 well drinks and $1 off beer. I would come back again if they ever changed the happy hour menu.

Surf and Turf was wonderful
Doug M.

Alara is a wonderful addition to the Cincinnati dining scene. The restaurant's contemporary design and very spacious interior create an atmosphere that feels both stylish and comfortable. For dinner, I ordered the surf and turf, which was perfectly prepared and full of flavor. My wife enjoyed the lobster pasta, which was equally outstanding. We finished with desserts that were light, beautifully presented, and not overly heavy -- just the right finish to a memorable meal. The staff went above and beyond to celebrate our 51st wedding anniversary, surprising us with complimentary desserts that made the evening even more special. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience and look forward to returning.

Sauces for the Lamb Chops
Sandra E.

I've seen videos and pictures on Instagram and instantly wanted to come here. My best friend made reservations for my birthday on a Saturday. She too was excited to dine here. She was impressed with their menu. We were greeted and they check in our coats. We were seated right away. I love the inside. So cozy and inviting. The lighting gives a romantic feel. Our server was Christina. She was very detailed and helpful with the menu. They serve mainly tapas style. I love a restaurant that offers that. You can share and try a variety of foods. Appetizers, salads, soups, entrees, a la carte sides and desserts. Drink menu has wine, beer and specialty drinks. We ordered: Drinks: -Cucumber Collins -Pinot Noir A to Z Essence Small Plates: Flock Bakery Focaccia Dinner: Willow Bend Farms Lamb Chop Chicken Milanese Yukon Gold mashed potatoes (a la carte) Dessert: Apples and Cream From the beginning to the end was magnificent. The food is top notch. The bread was super fresh and the truffle butter just melts in your mouth. I didn't think I would like the lamb but it was cooked to perfection (medium rare). The sauces complimented well with it. The chicken was very flavorful and loved the citrus arugula salad. The mashed potatoes were the best I've ever had. I love that the manager came to our table to check on us. At the end of the meal, they were so nice to give me a complimentary birthday dessert. The apples and cream were divine. What a great experience! Christina treated us like royalty and made me feel special. One of the best service I've ever received. I will definitely return and can't wait to take my Mr here and try other items on the menu.

Beat and Goat Cheese Salad
Doug K.

A fantastic experience from start to finish! We came here with some friends to celebrate New Year's Eve and had a lovely time! We got a reservation well ahead of time which is good as the restaurant was quite full. They have an open kitchen concept with tables all over as well as a smaller room towards the back with more tables. Our server was excellent and gave great suggestions. The food: - Chilled Seafood Platter - Beat and Goat Cheese Salad - Lobster and Butternut Squash Carbonara - 32oz. Tomahawk Ribeye - Swiss Chard and Shiitake - Brussel Sprouts and Butternut Squash - Creamsicle Cloud - Apples and Cream The chilled seafood platter was divine, probably my favorite part of the entire meal. Comes with all sorts of different seafoods and is a perfect dish to share for 4 people. The Lobster and Butternut Squash Carbonara was also another crowd favorite: creamy and rich and delicious. Everything was so well prepared, beautifully presented, and tasted amazing. The menu is definitely a little on the pricier side but the food is so worth it! We'll definitely be back to celebrate more special occasions!

Scallops
Jessica W.

Started with a lovely tartare before diving into our salads. I'm a sucker for a good beet salad, and this did not disappoint! R went for the Cesar because that's just how he rolls. I was excited to try the scallops on a bed of shaved Brussels sprouts and leek. Omgggggg so good. The Hubbs had beef tip pappardelle and loved it. The service was five stars from start to finish. Definitely recommend!

Melody V.

Bria & Kylia made the experience a 10/10! Every recommendation was fantastic. This was definitely a must try culinary experience. My personal favorite was the Korean corn dogs, the soy pearls were so unique and elevated the dish. We got the tomahawk to split for a group of 3 which was the perfect amount. The Vietnamese dipping sauce was fantastic. My favorite cocktails were the smoked pear & espresso martini.

Korean Corn Dogs
Kim S.

As soon as we stepped into Alara, I, I knew we were in for a treat. The open feeling and contemporary decor felt high-end but inviting. We were immediately welcomed and seated at the chef's counter that we had requested when making reservations. We always enjoy watching the behind the scenes in a restaurant's kitchen. Service was flawless. Our server, and other staff, were attentive without being overly so. Instead of going straight into suggestions, he asked us if we'd like some input, and when we said yes, he was eager to help. The food and drinks were outstanding. My husband and I both started with the smoked pear cocktail which we both enjoyed. Then came a pleasant surprise of an amuse bouche from the chef, which apparently you only get at the chef's counter. We ordered food to share for our meals, starting with the Korean Corn Dogs and the Smoked Carrot Hummus, which was my favorite dish of the night. After that we shared the Scallops and the Thai Shrimp Tagliatelle which were excellent as well. We finished with two desserts to share: the Raspberry Semifreddo and the Creamsicle Cloud. Both were light and refreshing. The perfect end do a top-notch dinner!

Rachael H.

We came to Alara for my birthday dinner yesterday after I was mesmerized by the desserts and it was very good overall! Service was fantastic and I thought the menu was unique and creative. For the amount of food you get I think it's a little pricey. By far the favorite was the HOP cakes. Wow. They were so creamy, crunchy and incredible. The filet was next - probably the best steak I've ever had. The salmon was perfectly cooked and very moist and I loved the addition of the lemon curd with it. The lobster and pea carbonara was ok but needed additional liquid to make it a bit of a thinner sauce. The creamsicle cloud for dessert was incredible! And the strawberry dish was very pretty but nowhere near as tasty as the creamsicle cloud. The smoked pear cocktail was so fun to watch smoke and very delicious - not overwhelming with the tequila and a nice fruity flavor.

Verjus Pear, Amuse-bouche (bruschetta-type minus the bread), Spicy Hibiscus Margarita at Chef's Table

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2 years ago

Great food, service and ambiance!!! Excellent!! Highly recommend. Food is delicious and great to share. Fun cocktails too.

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3 years ago

Wait staff was efficient and knowledgeable. Food was wonderful. The space is beautiful. Lovely addition to the development at MedPace.

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Nancy P.

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2 years ago

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Nancy P.

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Ask the Community - Alara

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Placebo - Front face is the bar

Placebo

3.7(27 reviews)
0.1 mi•Madisonville

Popped in for a drink before heading over to Alara for dinner. Both drinks we enjoyed were pretty…read moregood and as expected of what they were. The atmosphere was very chill. The seating is nicely thought out and arranged for whatever kind of party you may be bringing. The little back area would be awesome for a small gathering! Unsure if it was because of the staffing on the night we visited, or it is always this way, but despite being tables all over, there was no table service. All drinks had to be ordered at the bar and carried to the tables - there was no indication of this. Our initial wait at the bar was unmet, so we went and sat at a table assuming we'd be helped there instead, then after some time of nothing, one of us returned to the bar and waited again for service... so it was a pretty clunky start.

This bar is so cute and cozy! My friend and I have been here quite a few times since we just live…read moreup the street. I love all the different and cool concepts for drinks they have and they also seem to have a special every night for different spirits which is so fun. I'm sure you'll find a drink you'll like too, and I also love when places have mocktails too! The only thing that is kind of annoying is that they don't have a food selection so you'll have to eat before you come. I do see some people bring in food from element eatery so I think that is allowed. My friend raves about the espresso martini and one of my favorites is the role model (add gin if you want a cocktail)! I do like how they have some seasonal drinks or fun drinks for the holidays/time of year!

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Northstar Cafe

Northstar Cafe

4.4(107 reviews)
3.2 mi
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Northstar has figured out the balance between a relaxing lounge and upscale restaurant. The service…read moreis friendly and attentive. The leadership is impeccable. We've been to the Kenwood and Liberty Township locations and the consistent nature of their excellence is impressive. From the bright Pad Thai with grilled chicken to the comforting banana pancakes Northstar is Ohio's benchmark for elevated hospitality. Ps Great taste in music Sufjan Stevens was a nice touch.

Northstar Cafe never disappoints. Seriously, this place is stamped in our book…read more The service is almost always A1, and even when the food takes a little longer than usual, they usually make up for it somehow or throw us a comp card, which we definitely appreciate. I also LOVE the setup here. You pay first, get your food second, and everything just seems to run smoothly. No unnecessary waiting around trying to figure out what's going on. My wife and I usually rotate between the pancakes, the hash, the Northstar Burger, or the potato hash. Honestly, you really can't go wrong with any of them. The food is always fresh, portions are good, and everything comes out looking like somebody actually cared about what they put on the plate. We probably go once or twice a week, especially for brunch. At this point, Northstar is basically family. And if you're like us and pretty picky about where you eat, this is definitely one that gets the stamp of approval. Great food, good atmosphere, and consistently solid service. One more thing: I believe they play jazz after 6 PM Monday through Friday, which is always a nice little bonus. Overall, definitely recommend if you're looking for good food with a nice ambiance. Northstar has a permanent spot in our rotation!

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Northstar Cafe - Cast-iron steak and enchilada

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Overlook Kitchen + Bar

Overlook Kitchen + Bar

3.4(59 reviews)
0.2 mi•Madisonville

I placed a takeout order for the Russet Potato Gnocchi. The service was great. The workers all were…read moreincredibly friendly and my order was warm and ready right as I got there. They even threw in a complimentary drink. The gnocchi was a perfect portion, and the vegetables in it were fresh and well cooked. The sauce for the gnocchi was a bit spicy, but overall a great dish that I would order again.

After sending a formal complaint to the general manager, she invited me back (with a plus one) for…read moredinner. Our experience was ten times better. We started with the cherry bomb mocktail (for my friend) and the pineapple mule mocktail (for me). Both were phenomenal - very yummy! Then our server brought us some bread and butter - I could eat the whole basket. It was a honey butter with everything bagel seasoning mixed in - never had it before and didn't think those flavors would work, but we ordered another basket of bread! So good! For our meals, we both ordered the salmon, well done & blackened. Instead of the broccolini, I ordered a side Caesar salad. I'm not a fan of the risotto but that's only because I don't eat dairy regularly- I avoid it. My friend loved the risotto, the salmon and the broccolini. To finish, we ordered the carrot cake and the chocolate tarte. The tarte was very rich but so good! It's a very nice, quiet restaurant & bar with a great rooftop. Great for a date night or small dinner gathering

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Overlook Kitchen + Bar - Pineapple mule mocktail

Pineapple mule mocktail

Overlook Kitchen + Bar - Blackened salmon with broccolini and lemon risotto

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Caesar salad

Alara - salad - Updated November 2026

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