This was my college bar and still warrants a stop every time I'm in Clifton. Maybe it's nostalgia for me, but it's the perfect spot. Plenty of room to spread out and pool, shuffleboard, and a patio. They aways have friendly bartenders and a decent list of beer on draft. I'm glad this spot has been here for a long time, and hope it's always here. read more

This was my first time at Fries Cafe and it didn't disappoint! They don't serve food but the drinks are great! Bartenders are very well mannered, great at what they do, and are overall good people! One of the things I loved was the upstairs area! They have three floors. The basement is a pool area(I didn't check it out, main floor is the bar, and the second floor is another seating area with a table top shuffleboard. They also have an outdoor seating area on the second floor! Overall, great experience with great people! read more

Fries Cafe - Green tea shots - Dive Bars Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Such a fun night hanging out with friends at Fries Cafe!! Amazing atmosphere and a great time!! Molly read more

We used to go on Sundays for trivia. During the warmer months, we would sit outside on their deck and play. It's lovely, large outdoor area with a fire pit and ample seating. The trivia game was one of favorite things to do and I'll really miss it. As for the rest of the bar, it is what you would expect a college bar to be - a little rough around the edges. There is pool and popcorn. Popcorn is usually on the stale side, but passable. read more

I have not been to Fries in a few months, but as someone who used to live next door... it is one of my favorite bars in Cincinnati! It has a nice dive bar feel to it with very reasonable priced beers. One thing that sets Fries apart from other bars in the area is the diversity. You get an older crowd, hipsters, locals, young professionals, and college students that come here at any given time. The pool table in the basement is a good feature and they typically have karaoke on Thursdays if I remember right. During the summer and fall, the outdoor patio is one of my favorite places to relax with a beer in hand. There is no food (other than popcorn), but you can bring in your own from outside. The only downfall is the parking which can be tough to find on the weekends close to fries. You won't want to drive after being here anyway! read more

Fantastic venue for live music and cold beer! We enjoyed INOA band over the weekend and the patio out back was perfect. Only downside was bar was down some steps but that didn't stop even this guy with a broken leg since Taft, Braxton and Reinguiest were on tap. Highly recommended for a great evening out around Clifton. read more

Fries Cafe - a group of people sitting at a table outside at night - Dive Bars Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

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Definitely a dive which is always a good, fun, laid back atmosphere. The big negative is I don't think they have a/c, or at least didn't have it on when it was over 90* so not a fun place to be, even with big fans. They have a lot of local craft beers on draft, probably 8-10 and tons of bottles, plus every liquor you could want for a mixed drink. Seems like a good spot to end the night with a quick drink, several floors (we only stayed on the first, with the most fans), with shuffleboard, free pool on Sunday afternoons, pretty fun and a bit cleaner than I remember it being in college. read more

Fries (pronounced Freeze) Cafe located on Jefferson ave near the gaslight district is as divey dive as they come. I would have never noticed or known this bar was even here if I had not done a bar search for shufleboard on the Internet. Fries is a dive but it is really inviting. Their are a couple of rooms that compile what is Fries Cafe. The first door you walk into, which is hard to find if your a newbie, is the hallway which leads to the main bar area or you can go down into the dungeon pool hall. Past the bar room us the shufleboard board room which my party likes to take advantage of. It's an old table with some bumps at the ends but it no doubt gets the job done and makes for a super fun and competitive night. When it's comes to drink selection Fries has a great beer cooler. They boast on their website about being a beer bar and they live up to it. They have literally a standing cooler of tons of different beers for you to choose from. Fries does have food I think. Late at night though they have things like chips and peanuts for you to munch on. If your in town and looking for a good brewski then stop at Fries. The crowd is mature unlike on campus and it is more if a relaxing bar. A worthwhile place to stop at for a drink read more

Fries Cafe - a man sitting at a long table - Dive Bars Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

...kinda depressing place, not what it used to be. Mostly, older white men, long beards. Sorry... have to say it :) Bartender was moody, inappropriate and was talking about conspiracy theories, anti-vaccination stuff and spent most of time talking to regulars or complaining...Kinda of a deal breaker. Odd when one is paying to have a good time. Prices were okay though... I haven't been in Clifton area since Covid. Was excited go meet a friend. But, they cancelled. Not the best place to hang on your own. Could be really nice since the building and space is good. Or if you want to play pool...? Better to remember old memories than make new ones. Maybe it was just that night and I thought there was going to be karaoke? But, it didn't manifest... Maybe better management? read more

This is a favorite hangout spot for a lot of people I know. Hopefully it's not for the atmosphere, which I agree is extremely divey in that it's smelly and unpolished-looking, but rather for the chance to hang out with your buddies as you shoot pool/play darts/dominate at shuffleboard while you get a good buzz going. The shuffleboard is definitely addicting and there is usually a wait to play on more crowded nights. This place is never really crowded though, unless the med students just finished a block of exams. The people who come here tend to be "older", ie. grad students and up. Yes, that includes me. One reason I don't love coming here is because there is always (yes, every time I go) this one creeper black dude who sits at a table by the shuffleboard, literally one table away from my group, and just stares at people and things by himself for hours. He wears sunglasses at night sometimes, probably to help him reduce the stalking vibe by a few negligible percentage points. One time my female friend and I noticed that whenever our group left one area of the bar to go to a different area, the creeper would follow, then sit just as close as he had before. As you can tell I have observed him quite a bit, but that's just how much he bothers me. So I would suggest bringing a large group of guys with you as we do :) Come to think of it though, it's always the guys' idea to go. But oh well, somehow it's always a fun time! Notes: 1) Parking is either on the street, or in the lot directly across from Fries. It's not an actual bar lot but I've never been towed, and it's better than walking down a shady street in the dark. 2) On certain nights they sell really good and juicy burgers upstairs. (I don't remember any fries though, just chips. Ironic?) read more

Cheap atmosphere complete with deadbeat townie "regulars" (alcoholics) who basically live there. Neither the service or the selection are anything to write home about. Just go anywhere else within walking distance in the Clifton Gaslight neighborhood for a better atmosphere like Arlin's, or Catskeller, or anywhere else. read more

When you think of "dive bars", certain images come to mind. Surly bartender, rowdy crowds, crap beer selection and unclean drinking conditions. Fries Cafe doesn't really fit that mold. A favorite stop for beer snobs and college drunks alike, Fries has a great selection of beers. If you're looking to get drunk of pitchers of Bud Light while you watch the Bengals lose, it's a good place to do it, with their reasonable drink prices, numerous TVs and friendly atmosphere. However, if you're a little more picky about your beer, this is also a hell of a place to go, as well. With a great selection of locally and no-so-locally brewed beers - plus a bar staff that knows their stuff. Fries has three levels. The lower level has a number of pool tables and dart boards to while away the time with. The middle level is the main bar with one of these mini-shuffleboard-covered-in-sawdust things that I never quite understood the point of or got the hang of. There's also a Golden Tee arcade machine, which I am convinced is required by law in every bar in the country. The upstairs also has a pool table and a few dart boards, but the outside patio is where the awesomeness lies. Fries in the summer is paradise for beer and music lovers alike. A great stage, lots of picnic tables and regular cookouts (freshly cooked burgers on an open flame for $3, plus fixings and potato chips? Heaven) make for a great relaxing evening out. And for a "dive bar", things rarely tend to get rowdy. Fries caters to a diverse crowd and it shows. Everyone gets along and there's hardly any "drama" - a nice escape from your regular college bars. Fries isn't fancy (except for their drink selection), but the staff and atmosphere more than makes up for it. Sadly, it's not the best place to hang out in the wintertime, but other than that, it's one of the best spots in Cincinnati to have a beer. read more

They've reopened! Last year, or so Fries Cafe closed its doors under some rather unfortunate circumstances, despite its popularity. Luckily, the bar has finally reopened, and having stopped in with a group of friends on the second night of their relaunch, the bar was pretty packed wall to wall. Apparently, they had already been at capacity the prior night. The bar offers several pool tables throughout two staggered floors, as well as a pretty massive back patio. The place has got a real dive bar setting that always features a pretty unique crowd - especially being one of very few bars on its side of campus. Good beer selection, as well as mixed drinks. Friendly, approachable staff too! Recommend checking it out! read more

On a typical Saturday night at Fries, if you scan the crowd downstairs and upstairs and even outside you will notice cute college girls, a big amount of people from culinary industry, some people overdressed for this bar and more. My friends and I try and make this our stop on Saturday night after spending the entire day in the kitchen. We all meet upstairs by the pool table and just play pool and shoot the breeze about things that happened at our restaurants. The bartenders are very cool and easy to look out and make some great drinks. The jukebox is also very good and old school. It is a fun college bar and I enjoy going there almost every Saturday. read more

I cannot believe it took me this long in my life to go to Fries Café! And after my first tryst with this homey dive bar just over a month ago, I've since returned. That says a lot -- seeing that I've never been one to frequent Clifton bars -- but having recently partaken on a Holi-dive Bar Crawl in that area, I got to experience Fries in all its lovely dive-bar glory. There's something very comfortable about this particular place; perhaps because it is located in what feels like an historic home. But unlike historic times, there are flat screen TVs to accommodate the standard sports fan. Additionally, drink prices are reasonable. I will definitely be back. Again and again. read more

Great beer selection and truly one of a kinda bar/restaurant in the Clifton Neighborhood of Cincinnati. Very close to University of Cincinnati campus. I took part in the Y'all Good Jamboree they held out in the backyard area of the bar. The sound was good, the bands were great and the comedy was at least half assed (because it was me). Thanks to the ownership for allowing such a great event to happen and I hope to be part of it next year! Also, special shout out to Huck and The Rumpke Mountain Boys for getting me on the bill! read more

Fries has so many things going for it. Fries is only slightly divey. So get off their backs other reviewers. Out door patio: Its large, fenced (good for dogs which they allow), has mellow holiday lights all around, sometimes makes amazing food out there (mostly weekends, but check their site), bonfires, and a stage. Its dreamy and wonderful. They change their taps a lot. Their taps are always really tasty and interesting. Joe the Bartender is really good at making up drinks. And he has cool hair. Now the ladies bathrooms aren't the best but they aren't the worst either. I have been in the main floor men's bathroom and it is gross. I think either they're your thing or they're not. But ya gotta come try them out! read more

Was just cursed out by a manager for using the outdoor patio..... something about the gravel? Will not be back....

Fries Cafe is, as some people have mentioned, a dive bar. But it's not dirty, it's not sketchy, and it doesn't feel dangerous. So I'll add that up to a win. What does it have? It has a nice, neighborhood bar feel. It has pool tables. It has shuffleboard, which is a rarity in these parts. It has and excellent beer selection, and sometimes it has food on the grill outside. Oh, and it has outdoor seating. If you want to hang out and not pay too much and maybe watch a tiny bit of the game on the TV above the bar (no, the view of the TV won't be good, but it's enough for casual score-glances), then I'd say go for it. They have keg tapping events every now and then which are a good time, and you probably won't leave any worse than you came in. If I lived within stumbling distance I would be there, well, probably a lot. read more

I'm not cool enough for this bar, and neither are you. Or maybe I'm just grumpy because I'm hungry and this place doesn't serve food. At least they have potato chips. It's an old neighborhood place with a large couple of rooms on the main floor, a small room with pool tables on the second floor, and a large patio on the second floor. The patio is always filled with smoke, and it's usually easy to find a spot at a picnic table. If you're into interesting beers, it's a fine place to get some fun selections at their rotating tap. There are also a large number of bottled selections. The beer prices are moderate. The bar has an old, decaying feeling fitting for the neighborhood. It's a mess, but when you're here, it's *your* mess, and that's OK. I'm giving it two stars because it's only trying to be two stars. The people that go to it want a two-star bar. And that's OK too. If you're looking for a two-star bar, this one gets four stars. UPDATE: I've decided my star ratings need to be put on a curve, based on the type of establishment. This is a two-star-class bar. But like I said above, it gets four stars for that. read more

Great fun! Excellent selection of beers with a full bar. Cheap too. The deck outside is massive. You can hide under the ivy and drink quietly. More of the U.C. crowd should hit this place. It's an amazing watering hole stuck in a historic building. And if you happen to see a blonde bearded skinny hillbilly tending bar, be sure to kick him in the nuts and tell him I sent you. We're (unfortunately) friends for life. read more

I asked if there was popcorn on Sundays. There's always popcorn on Sundays. Why wouldn't there be? The guy said he would make some. He never did. Don't go here. There's no popcorn, just liars. They don't make popcorn on Sundays. read more

This is a great hidden hole in the wall near right down the main drag of Clifton that has a great vibe to grab a drink, play some pool or chill outside in their newly redone 2nd floor patio. Drinks are cheap, service is kind and we always have a great time! They do not serve food but they have a variety of snacks behind the bar to munch on before you head down the street to Skyline a J Gumbo's. I was hesitant the first time I came but have been coming back ever since, it truly is a unique place to grab a drink and hang out with friends without worrying. They also have tons of games, like pool and hand shuffle board, which are so fun to play!! 1 tip: its pronounced "freeze", not "fries"... thats the biggest thing youll ever need to know! read more

Nice local bar. Service was ok. Went here on a Monday evening. People tended to be very clique-ish.

I don't find Fries to be too dive-y. It's a good place to grab a beer with a group of friends. They have a great selection of beers, as well (draft and bottled). Oftentimes, they grill out and have live music. Definitely prefer coming here in the nice weather seasons, because the patio area is huge and nice to hang out in. One reason I really like Fries is because the crowd is always so varied. It's not like a lot of the bars in the Clifton area where the majority of patrons are college students. There's always a range of ages and it doesn't cater to one "crowd." And, you can't beat the variety of bar games! Pool, shuffleboard, darts, and sometimes cornhole! read more

I love going to Fries because it is so relaxed. I feel like I could walk in in my pajamas and no one would notice. The best part is the bartenders. They're all fun and friendly and so laid back. I appreciate that they talk to each customer in a genuine, "I want to get to know you" way. If you're looking for a place to get dressed up in your best high heels and dance to a dj, this is not the place. But if you want to relax with friends (or solo) and enjoy some oldies on the juke box this is your place! The upstairs, outside patio is a great feature as well! read more

4 stars. Why? Because it's awesome for what it is, which is a dive bar. Fries Cafe, or The Freeze as it's known to regulars, is located around UC but is definitely not a campus bar. Doubtful that you will find any underagers here. Definitely not a bumpin and grinding dj type bar. The crowd is what could best be described as eclectic. You will probably see a few international students here, a few straglers from the Corinthian, and those who are going to or have graduated from UC and want to chill. Generally, between 20-40 people fill this bar. I have not seen many more than that and I'm talking about peek hours on the weekend. The beer selection corresponds heavily with the crowd. Decent selection of draft beers, though wish they had a Miller or Mich option. A wide selection of specialty beers. The beer prices aren't too bad here, about Cincinnati nondowntown average. The Freeze does have an id checker/bar back guy, which is a plus because he serves the dual purpose of making sure no teenyboppers come in and keeps some of the Clifton crazies out. Amenities: Downstairs pool tables: Many pool tables are available, though it has a sort of dungeon type vibe so I have never ventured down. Upstairs darts: About 3 of them. Old school, no electronic stuff. Outside beergarden: Probably the most underutilized asset of this bar. Occasionally you will venture upstairs, which rarely occurs cause no one is up there, and you will see a band playing. One night I saw a rockabilly band playing. I'm not the rockabilly type, but give credit where credit is due. They were good and seriously, how many places in the Nati do you get the chance to see a rockabilly band? Awesome. Jukebox: Golden. A real jukebox by the way. Along with the crowd, the jukebox is the second biggest asset of this bar. A very good mix of tunes. Not a lot of 80's music. Thank God this bar is yet to be patronized by those born around 1990, saw Vh1s I love the 80's, and can't get enough of Journey. Great selection of soul/motown, mix in a little Robert Randolph, some Jack Johnson, a little Dave, Dropkick Murphys and you get the picture. The shuffleboard table: One of a handfull of bars in Cincinnati to have one of these. Other bars who have one include, the Sunset Pub in Price Hill. TV's: They have about 5 or so TV's, mostly flat screens. These are generally tuned to whatever major sports event is happening. More often than not, the Redlegs. Overall atmosphere: It's a dive. The Freeze is at the top of the list as Cincinnati dives go. You get everything that comes with that, the good, the bad and the ugly. read more

A non drinking writing a review about a bar? C'mon man. Well I will say this is obviously more than your standard bar. I am a fan of the table games and the open feeling Fries offers. Too cramped inside? Take a strolls upstairs and walk out onto their "backyard" filled with tables and lights. Great place to meet up with friends and talk all night. read more

Nothing says "dive bar" like the smell of urinal cakes when you enter the establishment. As Dive bar atmosphere, this place rates a 4.5. Neighborhood hangout with the typical weathered alkies, intermingled with the anti-trendy college types, and former hippies of Clifton. Laid back, non-judgemental atmosphere. Parking is a challenge, so best to walk. read more

My favorite bar in Clifton, was our go to spot when I lived close by. The bar staff is very friendly and seem like they enjoy to be working there. This place has everything you want in a bar, great service, fair prices, pool, shuffle board, darts and great out door seating. The location is just off campus so it's a solid choice if you want to avoid all of the shenanigans often associated with college bars. There is always a good mix of students and locals. read more

I've visited this bar a lot in the past 2 years and every time I come the bartenders are rude or even the manager or owner(man with Red hair) of the place can be very rude. I spend money every time I'm there and I do not feel welcome! I am I bartender myself and would love to leave a decent tip but they do not deserve it! Very disappointed bc I enjoy the location and the bar it's self but I don't think I'll be spending anymore money here. read more

Cheap drinks, walking distance from the medical school, and a casual atmosphere made this bar a staple in my life for two years. Check out the shuffle board table and the darts. They also have a large patio upstairs and host pig roasts and beer festivals, which are a lot of fun. Did I mention cheap drinks, and they have a happy hour. read more

Fries feels like home and we will always be loyal customers. Great prices and people! They have multiple pool tables, as well as dart boards. Their outdoor patio is to die for, especially on those cool summer nights. Always a good night at Fries! read more

Some of my friends think this place smells weird, but I've never noticed. Probably because I'm too distracted by the strong drinks, multiple televisions, and pool games going on. My only complaint USED to be they didn't accept credit cards, but I've been told that changed! Woohoo! The open-air atmosphere and occasional bonfire out back are the best. read more

Don't mistake this place for "fries," it's actually "freeze." The crowd is good, normally a bunch of grad students trying to forget how much writing a thesis sucks with some locals peppered in for some good stories. Pool, shuffleboard, etc, but we liked to play cards there most. Really great beer selection. read more

Fries is a friendly dive bar that is worth visiting. It is in walking distance from the university and the hospital complex, so some of the customers are university types. There are also non-university locals. It has an outdoor patio: Its large and fenced; which is good for dogs, which they allow. Parking is usually possible without a lot of difficulty. read more

check out the back patio and the sandy shuffleboard thing. great beer selection. read more

Fantastic dive bar! I've been here a few times both in college and in the years since graduating. It's consistently laid back and amazingly cheap without being too dive-y. read more

The beer selection is diverse, but expect to pay at least $5 per pint. Great bar, nice atmosphere. Definitely going back.

If you are in for a neighborhood bar with an eclectic group of people and alcohol selections this is your place. Cheap as can be. Tons of games: shuffle board, pool tables, 3 that I know of, darts and a HUGE patio. And the best part... Dog friendly. I love this place read more