When I heard Halfcut first opened last month (April) I wanted to check it out when I got a chance. Located in Over the Rhine Downtown Cincy. I really liked the decor of the bar. What I did not like is the small space with not enough seating. I know that bars are supposed to be noisy, but for some reason when I left, my ears were ringing. There was not enough seating. They had board games but where are you supposed to sit? I LOVE the selection of beer. It was hard for us to chooose so my husband and I got a flight each (4 for $8.00) 1st Round: Hop odyssey (black IPA) Mamas little pils (Pilsner) Rubaues founders (fruit ale) Roebling porter (porter) 2nd Round: Paw paw (imperial wheat) White arjah (IPA) Xs old crustacean (barley wine) Did not like and my least favorite Out n'about (wheat) Love the quality craft beers that they had to offer. The staff was very friendly and efficient. Clean Restrooms. Street Parking. Reasonable pricing. I don't think I will be returning. Love the atmosphere, but do not like the tight space. Not enough room and WAY too noisy. read more

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Definitely sort by review date as the place seems to have changed significantly from prior reviews. My group stopped in pretty late (11pm) on a recent Fri nite in July, 2019. I had never been before and the Turtle (their specialty item) was amazing! It's a tortilla stuffed with burrito-type fillings (choose your meat, they also have tofu) then they encase it in a seared cheese tostada. I.can.not.recommend.this.enough! It is around $9 and pretty big so its a good idea to split one. The beer selection was pretty meh (definitely not a wall of taps). Ended up getting a cheap Hudy Delight for $2 I think. Seating is very limited but you can also order togo from the window. Service was very friendly as she walked us through the menu and made recommendations. Variety of fresh made hot sauces can be added (no charge). Good nightcap spot imho. Would go back. Minus one star for beer selection. read more

HalfCut - Pubs Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

Amazing beer, killer vibe, and great service. Rotating some of the best beers in the city, this is a hidden gem. Gomez friendly - order next door and bring it on in for a place to eat and great brew. A go to for me over the last few years. read more

HalfCut - Pubs Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

This place just oozes hip and cool. It's a small space but it's also no-nonsense. They serve beer. Period. It's got a really chill vibe and the folks behind the bar are all smiles, even when it's crazy crowded like it was when we were there. They happily waited while we tried to make our decision and even offered some great advice. This is a great spot to grab a beer with your friends, and it was a great start to our night out in OTR. read more

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What a great idea in Over The Rhine, a craft beer bar, where beers are served in a clean and simple format. The format is a black chalkboard where each beer is given a number and a simple description - beer name, brewery, type of beer (IPA, Stout, Ale) ABV, IBU and price for pint, growler. I went with a sampler which was $8 for four samples, trying an imperial red ale, a wheat ale, a nitro ale and served by friendly staff member. As a craft beer fan who's always into the latest it beer I see myself coming here over and over again. The only improvement would be is to turn on the A/C or have a better cooling system for the space, it was quite warm & stuffy on a Tuesday night around 7pm, everyone I was with during my visit remarked on how warm it was in the space. Great job Halfcut! read more

First stop of the day, and just beer.....that its folks, only beer! I love the concept...simple, small, no-frills, local beers and laid back. I love the decor in here, the overall simplicity of this place is amazing. To me, there is no better kind of place to grab a brew. The small simple tables and few standing rails make for a very homey feel. If you are looking for a large roomy place, then this is not your place, but if you like a small no-nonsense place, get yourself on down here now! I love the different rotating local brews. That makes me and the boyfriend happy! The friendly staff gave us recommendations based on what we drink and what we like. You can also get a small sample to make sure you like before you buy a pint or a growler. They also serve flights, whooo hooo! Bonus - they have board games and Cards Against Humanity -say whaaaat! What's better than a little brew and Cards Against Humanity with friends! YES! This is also the meeting place for a couple of tours - Craft Connection and Pedal Wagon so you are bound to see a bunch of folks in here at any given time on the weekends. If you have not been here yet, get on down to Half Cut and grab a beer! PS...The White Rascal is delicious! Yummmm-o! read more

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Came here this past weekend when our group got too big to talk comfortably at Sundry and Vice. I'd seen Half Cut before but I never saw people inside so I kinda wrote it off. On an early Saturday evening, this place is cool. You can order from Gomez inside vs. standing at the outside window which is cool. They also have a really good beer selection and they offer cocktails. Seating is super limited and the place is small in general, so don't plan to spend your whole night here, but it makes a good meeting place. It's also a safe place to order your Gomez without dealing with whatever is going on the street. read more

Over the weekend HalfCut opened their doors in Over-the-Rhine serving sixteen beers for either carry out growler fills or for sampling inside. There is no seating at the bar, instead you place your order at one end and then receive your beer and pay at the register located on the other end. A couple six person tables are found in the middle of the small space as well as various counter level tables and rails for standing around. There is a stack of games in one corner for visitors to use while enjoying the beer. One awesome features is the to-go window where you can get growlers filled without even stepping foot inside the door. Also there is a small selection of bottled and canned beers for mixed six-packs, though draft beer is definitely the star here. I can't see myself ordering round after round at HalfCut, as it seems to be more geared towards sampler flights and beer to-go. It's a good spot for a quick visit and growler fills when you already know what you like. read more

Went for the first time in a few weeks last night and was quite disappointed. Gomez recently bought the place and striped everything off the walls, added a new TV and dedicated both to sports and now plays music so loud you can't talk to people 2 spots down, wasn't this supposed to be a relaxing place to play a board game and sit around with friends? Prices have also gone up and the selection seems like it's not as diversified as it was before with new beers from unknown breweries from all over the country. I feel like the new management does not know what it wants so threw sports on and turned the top 40 playlist on loud. read more

HalfCut I know we've only just met and this may seem a little sudden...but I think I'm in love with you. Whew what a relief to get that off my chest! But seriously HalfCut is by far my favorite of the new additions to the OTR drinking scene. It's a concept that is so simple and yet so effective I'm not sure why we haven't been running bars like this all along. When you walk in you get in line. There's a rotating list of beers on tap. When it's your turn you can ask for suggestions or just place your order. They do single beers as well as growler fills. I went with Blank Slate's Out and About which is one of my favorite warm weather beers. They then take your order, you get your beer, and then you head to the register and pay. That's right no more attempting to make awkward eye contact with the bartender to get your order! It's genius! They even have a window where you can order to-go growlers! Seriously this place is the thing beer drinkers dreams are made of! Though the space is intimate there is some seating available. It's definitely gets crowded during peak hours. We went on a Saturday night and were able to get a spot at one of the standing tables. They also have a slew of board and card games. Seriously beer and board games...how could you not love it? Welcome to the neighborhood HalfCut! We are so very happy to have you! read more

This place is the bees knees. I know what you might be thinking about this place. Another hipster bar in OTR. Well, you'd be...partially right. It probably is still a little hipster but this is most definitely not your average OTR bar. Think of this place as the Beer 1215 Wine Bar of OTR. Let me explain. This is not Neon's, MOTR, or even The Drinkery. The deal here is beer discovery and chill time. There are beers from all over the country displayed at the counter with descriptions, and prices per size (pint, bomber, 32 and 64 oz. growlers). After talking to the beerista about what may fit you best and getting some samples he fills out your order hands it to you and you bring it to the register to pay. This is a more cafe experience than it is a bar experience which makes it so unique. Of course after that you can chill in the beautiful space and enjoy the interesting murals and decorations or play a board game they have laying around (Cards Against Humanity anyone?). Aside from that, HalfCut offers a "growler window". This is, in fact, the old Lucy Blue location and why not put the window to use?! They display the same menu outside as they do inside and they allow you to stop by grab a growler and get on your way. Prices are very reasonable here, with some beers being cheaper than at the breweries actual tap rooms. There is also a "sixer mixer" station which let's you make your own six pack by again filling out your order and getting it fulfilled at the bar. If your looking for a more chill environment in OTR and a great beer list that changes routinely this is your jam. I can't wait to hang out here in the summer especially when Gomez Salsa opens up in the connected space and tacos and beer will be flowing! Don't wait too long to get your butt down to HalfCut because your really missing out. read more

I love the concept -- beer only, to go, plus an outside order+pickup window. I love the space -- a mural that includes bearded hotties, great floors, and decor. I love the beer selection. I didn't love the super bright overhead lighting, the blaringly loud and bad music, or the fact that it was humid as hell in April. I fear what it will be like in summer. I'm sure I'll be back, I'd love to support the place. I just don't feel that it's a great hang out spot. It's more like a grab-a-beer-and-chug-it-and-lets-move-on sort of spot. Or perhaps it was because it was the grand opening? I dunno. read more

Man, I REALLY want to like this place. The beer selection is great, and they also offer a wide range of old school board games you can choose from. But there is only one problem, not much space to play the board game, let alone be able to hear the persons/person you are playing with. Not sure what the deal is, but this had to be the loudest bar I have every been in, and I have been to many! There might be, 15 seats in the whole place, but plenty of standing room. There's not much in the place to break up the noise, you are trapped in a small 25x25 box it feels like. I want to like this place, but can't. It doesn't make you want to stay around and have a couple beers, it's like, chug the beer and find a better location. I wish them the best, we did a couple flights, and the beer was tasty, but the atmosphere isn't working. read more

Went here this past friday night with a couple buddies. We were looking to grab a couple beers and watch the Cavs basketball game and Copa America Argentina game. Got here and each grabbed a beer, sat down and watched the basketball game on the only TV. We were part of less than a dozen people there and definitely the only patrons watching the game. The Cavs game kinda sucked so decided we would grab one more round if we could get them to put the soccer game on. When we went up to order another we asked if they would flip the game on. The answer we got "we are watching game, you might want to go across the street" I know i am picky, but in the manner it was said and the fact it was said at all was kinda lame. I thought you were supposed to cater tot he customer???? Anyways we did leave, we went to another bar and asked them to put game on and they did right away. (Rhinehouse) So if you want to get just a beer from some borderline rude people. This is your place!! read more

Opening day at HalfCut was everything I thought it would be: a great selection of interesting beers, a casual artsy atmosphere, and just enough what the.....to make for interesting conversation. (See ram and boom box). The beeristas (please give me credit if this is a new word) were very friendly and informative throughout. I had the hairy eyeball from Lagunita. Please be advised...this is 9.4%...no joke. I also got two growlers to go. I had such a great time that the broken growler and 64oz of Madtree IPA on my passenger seat couldn't bring me down. What a nice spot to bevy before or after dinner! read more

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Went to HalfCut last Saturday night for the first time with a group of 8. We had a good time, but I think I would rather come here when it's less busy. The decor is so cool...Think trendy-hipster-industrial-vintage without trying too hard, and that's HalfCut. We saw this super sweet vintage map of the US on the wall, and Justin and I drunkenly had a 20 minute conversation about buying it off of them. That's how much we like the decor in here. The bar itself is pretty small (typical size for OTR) and pretty loud. There were only 40-ish people in the bar at the time, but it felt crowded. There's also only seating for like 20 people, which can be a problem when people are hogging seats to eat their Gomez Salsa from next door (Pro Tip: Gomez Salsa delivers to HalfCut, so you don't even have to wait in line!). I like that you go up and get in line to order your beer! The beer selection was pretty good and varied, but the prices were a little high (prices were $5-9 for a pint/snifter). They had a few local beers and a good selection of out-of-town rare beers as well. You can also fill growlers here, but like I said earlier, the prices were pretty expensive. I think I would come back on a week night to play their board games and enjoy one or two beers with the cool ambiance. read more

My fast bad experience in OTR since I opened up my store on Vine. I got Gomez and I was that most people just eat at this bar. We go in and we as we waiting for our food. I go to order a drink as I don't drink alcohol (first alcoholic drink at age 27). And I ask for an orange juice. The lady rudely says (we don't have orange juice) even though I see it. She says well we dont fell it its for our $7 (unknown name) drink. She said she can make it happen and then she tried to charge me $4 for a shot glass of orange juice, I said oh never mind. She said well you have to get a drink to eat here and slams a glass and pours orange juice. I give her my card, i hand it to her and pay and the when she gives it back she slams it in the bar and walks away. Mind you I was doing what i thought was right. Maybe she was mad that i interrupted her? Anyway better buy some alcohol or they get mad. It is a bar after all, paying or not! read more

I've been hearing rave reviews about Halfcut - everything from a favorite new little bar to "the Chipotle of beer," meaning the organization of the line and the ability to put together a flight of whatever you want. And there are some things that I certainly appreciated about Halfcut. The first is the ability to order in a variety of sizes- from a sample to a growler, usually with three glass/pint/half growlers in-between. The second is the prices, which are on par with most of the bars in the area for a craft beer. But there were a couple of things that I wasn't super excited about. I realized as I walked up that I had probably walked by Halfcut a few times in the past few weeks without realizing it was there- because there is no sign to speak of. I feel like, unless you're going to advertise yourself as a speakeasy, a lack of signage portrays a members-only mentality. You have to know what you're looking for in order to get there. Second, and this is something I'm going to chalk up to the day I happened to be there- I didn't want to drink any of the beers they had! Based upon Halfcut's reputation as a new craft beer emporium, I was expecting to be super overwhelmed with choices and basically have to sit there all day to drink everything that I wanted to try- or at least order more than one sampler. But, all of the breweries on the board were recognizable, and the sessions they had were either things I felt were pretty normal choices (aka something I might already have in my fridge), or didn't sound particularly appetizing. The only reason I even ended up getting anything (which I mostly gave to the boyfriend) was because there was a big group of us staying there for a while. So, Halfcut, I am underwhelmed. This review would really be more like 3.5 stars if I could, because the atmosphere was really nice, and again, the main complaint was about something that changes often there (I think?!). Let's try again another time. read more

There are a number of reasons to like HalfCut and it may begin where you order pints from a rotating chalkboard list of craft beer, and end when you simply stop by the growler window to get a refill on the fly, because there are certainly all of the in-betweens, too. No matter your purpose for stopping by, HalfCut is sure to satisfy your every beer need. For the most discerning beer connoisseurs, HalfCut boasts a rotating list of mostly local craft breweries for a pretty decent cost. The setup of walking through a line to order is more seamless than your standard bar protocol, which is great. HalfCut also feels a bit more relaxed than your normal bar, so I recommend coming here for a beer or two to enjoy casually with friends--while playing games, no less. Great atmosphere, too. If you're hungry, HalfCut is a great place to wait out your, err, wait at any of the packed OTR restaurants, or you can stop by Gomez Salsa's window right next door for a quick bite. read more

An absolutely lovely little (no, really, it's pretty small) beer bar in OTR, just off of Central Parkway. HalfCut only has about 16ish beers on tap, and the menu is displayed on giant boards with information about each beer. There are two large cut-outs above the menu, one of the entire US and one of Ohio. Little goat magnets show you were the beers are from. I got a beer from a brewery in Indiana I hadn't heard of, and the Peanut Butter Porter from Listermann's. You can also get a flight of beers in order to try several types. HalfCut also fills growlers, and appeared to have a few bottles available. There aren't a lot of seats, so I bet this is crazy on a weekend. But on a weekday night, it's a great place to stop by with friends. read more

I absolutely LOVE HalfCut. Here are some of the many reasons this place is the bomb: - Goat themed! - You stand in a line to order your beer. No more waving a credit card in the air in the hopes that a bartender sees you - Great beer selection that rotates frequently - Prices are listed right on their chalkboard so you aren't surprised by ordering an uber expensive beer on accident - BOARD GAMES (because there's nothing better than proclaiming "You sunk my battleship" in the middle of a bar) - Pet friendly - I have had both my cat and dog here on different occasions and they had a great time. - Friendly, knowledgeable staff - Growler fills. Their growlers are also very nice with a higher quality cap HalfCut can get quite busy (especially when the Pedal Wagon is there) but that is just proof of how great this place is. Check it out if you love beer, a relaxed atmosphere, and board games! read more

Halfcut is a beer cafe. Don't come here expecting to see trendy craft cocktails on the menu. Or wine for that matter. This place is a beer drinkers heaven. Select beers from breweries around the country are offered. Chalk boards with the names of the brew, where its from, description of what it is and pricing are listed along with the tap number. Not sure what you're in the mood for? Don't fret, the staff is very knowledgeable and will gladly help you choose. A small space that easily gets crowded and a little stuffy inside, but you'll live, I promise. Go check this place out and show the community some support. read more

Wow! Such a cool little place. Very small, but smartly designed, with lots of standing room along the windows and walls. Talking to the bartenders was a treat, very knowledgeable and helpful people! The beer samplers are a nice way of checking out some intriguing rotating brews. Big advantage: you can order delicious Gomez Salsa turtle and enjoy with the beer. Plus: they have boardgames :) read more

This is such an awesome concept! I have seen similar places in Denver and Seattle before and am so happy it has made it to Cincy. I like to call this (as apparently many others do too) the coffee house of beers! You walk up, order your beer with the help of your "beer"ista and then pay right in line. They have some common favorites on tap along with a few less known but spectacular brews. I had a very good lambic while I was there. It is a relaxed atmosphere, which is perfect for meeting up with friends and then heading to other places in OTR/downtown. The only reason it's not 5 stars is because I wish there was just a little more space. A place with some couches/ live music would be great. But overall a great place to hang out for a while with some friends, and enjoy some great beer! read more

What's that you say? You have my favorite beer on tap? It's pretty cheap and I can drink as much as I want as long as I don't vomit on my shoes (or anyone elses)? SOLD!! I made the rookie mistake of not getting any food from Gomez's, probably the second worst decision of my life after attempting to shave up (Never shave up, always go down). They have something like 15 beers on tap and each one is just begging to be drunk, yes that was a double entendre. If you haven't been yet I'm not sure what you are waiting for. You're late and there's probably a long line of hipsters claiming squatters rights on the scant seating. read more

Just what the doctor ordered! Also, just what Over-the-Rhine needed! I'm so excited HalfCut opened it doors. HalfCut isn't a gigantic bar. Small and sort of compact, it has a personality that makes it unlike any bars in the area. (Allelujah!) It's low-key, casual place to meet up with friends and enjoy a beer. It's a beer only bar, where you can get in line (read: no jostling for prime bar position and waving your credit card like a mad woman...not to say I've done anything like that) and have growlers filled or simply walk up to the pick-up window. You can also get flights ($8) or just a standard pint of whatever is on tap (prices range from ($7-$10). I had a the Curmudgeon, an old ale. Most people didn't like it but as for me, I discovered another craft beer I'll start craving from time to time. There are only a few small tables and ledges line the south wall. You'll likely be rubbing elbows with other people but everyone is relatively friendly and engrossed in their game boards. Yes, there are game boards! Just don't get the Rock 'em Sock 'em Robots. Maybe I'm just incompetent but neither I nor my friend could knock each others' heads off. But, I digress. This bar feels like it's made for Cincinnati, a craft-beer hungry dwelling. read more

We had a terrible experience at HalfCut. Four of us (all People of Color) went to order food. The waitress was socializing with a couple in front of us, and finished her conversation before even addressing us. She then scowled at us as we attempted to order. She was rude and told us that there was no Mahi Mahi, no tofu, and no jackfruit. She claimed that the grease has been turned off 1/2 an hour before, and that is why they did not have the food. We left. It was an awful experience. read more

This is just what OTR needed! The whole idea of the place is genius. Craft beer is hard to find in OTR unless you're at a restaurant or bar. Stopping by the window to fill up my growler will become part of my routine. Such a fun and convenient idea. The staff is friendly and informative. Prices are fair and selection is broad. Overall amazing and easily deserves 5 stars. Congrats to the owners! read more

HalfCut - Rivertown Nitro Roebling & a take home growler of Triple Digit Chickow! - Pubs Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

It's a bar, with a line, almost like an alcoholic Chipotle or something. Overall, I like it. It's small, charming, and the staff and regulars seem friendly. There's a shelf of board games, clad with anything from Jenga to Cards against Humanity. The beer selection has enough variety to keep any beer drinker happy. I've never bought a growler before, but with a walk-up window I plan on buying one to try this out in the near future. I would avoid this place when it's slammed....there's just not much seating (or standing room, for that matter). I'll definitely be back on a quiet night to enjoy good beer and a warm atmosphere. read more

Yummy good! And Greta drinks at a good price. They're also open late on weekends which is a plus

Really cool concept, especially the walk-up window. If you thought, just what OTR needs another beerhouse, think again, this place has it's own niche. read more

Cute little corner pub that's kitty corner from Lachey's. It's small inside but still has a good vibe. They have 16 beers on tap and you can get a growler to go. Board and card games are available for use at the bar. If you want a chill, quiet place for a brew, this is your spot. read more

Halfcut is a good spot to pop into as you hop around OTR. They have about 12 beers on tap and offer 2 kinds of wine, that's it. So not a regular bar, more focused on harder to find craft beers from around the country. Surely you'll find something you'll like. They also have a variety of board games. If you're hungry, the taco window at Gomez next door will deliver to Halfcut as well. Cute place, check it out. read more

This was a fun stop. Atmosphere was chill and quiet (compared to the bars around) which was great for us. The beer selection was good and the concept is awesome. Love the flights and growler options. read more

HalfCut - Flight - Pubs Near Me - Cincinnati, Ohio

So I have to start this review by saying that I am not a beer drinker...so I feel bad giving it a lower review because this is a beer bar. BUT in my defense, there is not a wide range of options for things other than beer. They did have four wine options(I had the Pinot Noir, it was ok, but not great). The bartender was very friendly and ready to chat about beer. They have a few board/card games that you can play while you are hanging out. We also visited on a day where they had live music and that was cool. Great guitarist, very enjoyable. There wasn't alot of seating. It seems like this place is meant for people to stand around and drink beer. So if that is what you are looking for this is definitely the sport for you, but not my type of place. read more

Let's just call a spade what it is, a spade. A great place in winter I'm sure, but AVOID HalfCut in summer........their is no A/C. How can there be no A/C in an establishment these days?! And, to be honest, sadly I couldn't really enjoy much else about this place because I was so stinking (literally stinking), hot! Next time it will just be a growler stop and head home kind of thing. No A/C, no Martha C. read more

What a cool little place, and a very neat concept. Immediately when I walked in, I was greeted with a smile and very welcoming personality (there weren't a whole lot of people there, but I'd like to think they're always like that. I wasn't sure what the place was really about when I got in there, but it's like fastfood meets beer, in that you get in line to order your beer and then find a table to drink it at. They also have a "drive thru" (it's actually a walk thru) windo to pick up beer to take home. The guy who was working the night I was there was very helpful. He gave samples, explained everything to us, and was very pleasant. And it wasn't just us, he did that for everyone that came in. Also, they have board games that you can play!! read more

Love this place. Excellent beer and great staff. Manager talked us through all the beers and chatted with us the entire time. Lol at a guy complaining over bringing food from another establishment in here and it being accidentally thrown away. This app has some real idiots on here unfortunately. Anyway. Go check it. read more

Super fun. Über hipster. Amazing beer selection. Excellent music. Tons of fun games to play and pass the time. The only cons are they close at 12 which I totally expect to change as they are crushing it. Also guess they are like other bars and probably only have a beer license, no food or bites. Would be nice but eh c'est la vie. Will be back again and again! read more

A cute little beer bar next to Below Zero in OTR. Lots of windows and kitchy decorations make for a great atmosphere. Bar staff was very helpful and willing to let me sample a couple things before making my decision. Prices are too be expected for craft beers in OTR. Only downside is that they don't serve any food to go with the beer... even bar snacks would be enough. Looking forward to picking up a growler from their walk-up window in the future! read more