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Nicholson's Fine Food & Whisk(e)y, Cincinnati, OH

Nicholson's Fine Food & Whisk(e)y

4.5
4.5
3073 Reviews
$30 and under
Gastro Pub

Make a booking

2 people
7:00 pm
Booked 31 times today
Experiences are available.
  • Lively
  • Charming
  • Neighbourhood gem
Located in downtown Cincinnati across from the Aronoff Center, Nicholson’s is a restaurant and bar serving fine food and drink in a genuine Scottish tavern setting. Taking inspiration from the public houses found throughout Great Britain, our goal is to provide our guests with authentic hospitality and a brilliant dining experience. In addition to high-quality food, we offer a wide variety of beer, wine, and spirits featuring one of the best selections of single malt scotch whiskies in the area. Our family of restaurants has grown in recent years to include two new concepts: Horse & Barrel Bourbon House and the Backstage Event Center located next door from Nicholson's Pub. Horse & Barrel is an award-winning whiskey bar with 100+ whiskeys and bourbons, specialty cocktails, craft beers, small bites and a friendly bourbon-loving staff. The Backstage Event Center is a private event venue hosting rehearsal dinners, weddings, cocktail parties, corporate events and more.

Order delivery or takeout

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Dining
  • Price
    $30 and under
  • Cuisines
    Gastro Pub, Breakfast, Seafood
  • Hours of Operation
    Mon–Thu 11:00 am–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 11:00 am–11:00 pm Sun 10:00 am–9:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (513) 564-9111
  • Website
    http://www.nicholsonspub.com/
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Carte Blanche, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Executive Chef
    Cameron Bloomer
  • Private party facilities
    Nicholson’s is located directly across from the Aronoff Center for Arts. Nicholson’s has the largest selection of Single Malt Scotch in the region.We are a great destination for your next rehearsal dinner, graduation, business dinner or birthday party.
  • Location
    625 Walnut St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
  • Area
    Central Business District
  • Cross Street
    Between 6th and 7th, Across from the Aronoff Theater
  • Parking details
    Private Parking
  • Entertainment
    Bourbon & Blues - Live music every Thursday 6pm-9pm
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Delivery, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeaway, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Featured in

Experiences

  • Burns Night Celebration

    USD 75.00 per person

    Prepaid

    23 Jan 2025 only
    Come join us for a night of Scottish revelry. Get ready for bagpipes, kilts, and lots of fun! This event will transport you to the heart of Scotland, with Celtic music, dancing, and, of course, a hearty feast. Mark your calendar and get ready to raise your glass to Scotland's National Poet at our Annual Robert Burns Night celebration. 6:00pm Ticketed Event at Backstage Event Center: $75 includes reserved seating, family-style dinner with appetizers, desserts, wine & whiskey tastings, live music by the Columbus Celtic group FinTan, entertainment throughout the evening by Robert Reid and The Cincinnati Highland Dancers, Traditional Toast to the Haggis, and more!
    Burns Night Celebration photo

Menu

Starters

  • Belhaven Beer CheeseUSD 12.00

    warm soft pretzels, celery, carrots

    • Guinness Spring RollsUSD 12.00

      pot roast, potato, root vegetables, creamy horseradish sauce

      • Crab CakesUSD 16.50

        lump crab meat, topped with seasoned breadcrumbs, fried, mixed greens, malt vinegar aioli

        • Flash-Fried BrusselsUSD 9.00

          parmesan, malt vinegar aioli

          • Fried Pork BellyUSD 12.00

            crispy with bourbon mustard BBQ sauce, apple turnip coleslaw

            • Scotch EggUSD 10.00

              pub mustard, mixed greens

              • Smoked Salmon DipUSD 14.00

                house-smoked salmon dip, red onion, capers, crostini, celery, carrots

                • Ploughman's Bread BoardUSD 12.00

                  artisan bread, house-made cornbread, olive oil, honey butter, jam, goat cheese mousse, pickles

                  • Charcuterie BoardUSD 25.00

                    artisanal meat & cheese, crackers, pickles, granny smith apples, jam

                    Soups & Salads

                    Add: Chicken* $7 | Salmon* $9 | Crab Cake* $9 | Shrimp* $9

                    • Soup du JourUSD 5.00

                      chef's daily feature

                      • Cock-A-LeekieUSD 5.00

                        pulled chicken, chicken broth, leeks, golden raisins, white rice

                        • Kentucky BurgooUSD 6.00

                          house-made stew with chicken, pork, beef, potatoes, tomatoes, corn, carrots, onion, celery, beans, fresh baguette

                          • Tavern House SaladUSD 6.50

                            spring mix, dried cranberries, granny smith apples, stilton blue cheese crumbles, house-made bee pollen vinaigrette

                            • Classic Caesar SaladUSD 6.50

                              romaine, shaved parmesan, garlic croutons, house-made caesar dressing

                              • Arugula SaladUSD 10.00

                                dried apricots, arugula, feta cheese, walnuts, balsamic vinaigrette

                                Tavern Fare

                                • Nicholson's Fish & Chips

                                  hand-breaded haddock, tavern fries, coleslaw garnish, house-made tartar sauce

                                  • WeeUSD 14.00
                                  • FullUSD 18.00

                                • Bangers & MashUSD 18.00

                                  Avril-Bleh sausage, caramelized ale onion gravy, mashed potatoes, green onions, braised red cabbage

                                  • Pot RoastUSD 19.50

                                    slow-roasted in house, three cheese macaroni, roasted carrots, topped with crispy onion straws

                                    • Shepherd's PieUSD 17.00

                                      ground lamb & beef, peas & carrots, mashed potatoes, parmesan breadcrumbs, bordelaise, accent salad

                                      • Kentucky Hot BrownUSD 18.50

                                        turkey, griddled sourdough, bacon, tomato, cream sauce

                                        Mains

                                        • Pan Seared Salmon*USD 25.00

                                          highland beurre blanc, mashed potatoes, zucchini medley

                                          • Chicken Schnitzel*USD 22.00

                                            pretzel-crusted, lemon caper beurre blanc, clapshot, roasted carrots, scallions, crispy onion straws

                                            • Steak Frites*USD 30.00

                                              house marinated choice cut, tavern fries, garlic butter

                                              • Center Cut Pork LoinUSD 21.00

                                                slow-roasted pork loin, cranberry-apple chutney, truffle parmesan roasted potatoes, braised red cabbage

                                                • Shrimp & Grits*USD 20.00

                                                  creamy sharp cheddar grits, jumbo shrimp scampi, scallions

                                                  Gastroburgers

                                                  tavern fries

                                                  • Nicholson's Signature*USD 15.00

                                                    sweet onion jam, yellow & white cheddar, arugula, tomato, lemon garlic aioli, butter-griddled sourdough

                                                    • Bourbon BBQ & Bacon*USD 15.00

                                                      beef patty, sharp white cheddar, bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion

                                                      • Shepherd's*USD 15.00

                                                        seasoned ground beef & lamb, herbed goat cheese, lemon garlic aioli, arugula, tomato, onion

                                                        • Horse & Barrel Sliders*USD 13.00

                                                          Two hearty beef patties, pimento cheese, pickles

                                                          Pub Sandwiches

                                                          choice of side

                                                          • Highland HaddockUSD 14.00

                                                            hand-breaded, house-made tartar sauce, lettuce, tomato, onion, rye

                                                            • Roasted Pork SourdoughUSD 14.00

                                                              jamaican jerk mayonnaise, sharp cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, butter-griddled sourdough

                                                              • Welsh DipUSD 17.00

                                                                prime rib, green peppers, onions, mozzarella, provolone, au jus, pretzel bun

                                                                • Caledonian Grilled ChickenUSD 14.00

                                                                  marinated chicken, bacon, griddled onion, swiss cheese, lemon garlic aioli, lettuce, tomato, brioche bun

                                                                  • Corned Beef ReubenUSD 14.00

                                                                    sauerkraut, swiss cheese, thousand island dressing, rye

                                                                    Sides

                                                                    Side Dish Platter $12 | $4 à la carte; pick three side dishes, bread

                                                                    • Truffle Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

                                                                      • Tavern Fries

                                                                        • Mashed Potatoes

                                                                          • Clapshot

                                                                            Mashed Potatoes & Turnips

                                                                            • Three Cheese Macaroni

                                                                              • Coleslaw

                                                                                • Roasted Carrots

                                                                                  • Braised Red Cabbage

                                                                                    • Flash-Fried Brussels Sprouts

                                                                                      • Zucchini Medley

                                                                                        • Artisan Bread

                                                                                          • House-Made Cornbread

                                                                                            Last updated: 17 January 2023

                                                                                            What 3,073 people are saying

                                                                                            Overall ratings and reviews

                                                                                            Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

                                                                                            4.5
                                                                                            4.5 based on recent ratings
                                                                                            • 4.6Food
                                                                                            • 4.5Service
                                                                                            • 4.5Ambience
                                                                                            • 4.4Value

                                                                                            Noise • Moderate

                                                                                            Review summary

                                                                                            AI-generated from verified diner reviews
                                                                                            Nicholson's Fine Food & Whisk(e)y in Cincinnati is celebrated for its "fantastic experience" and "delicious food." With a remarkable Scotch selection and Scottish-themed pub ambiance, it's the perfect spot before a concert at the Aronoff Center. Guests consistently praise the "great service" and "excellent atmosphere." Enjoy live music, themed specials, and a cozy setting for a memorable dining experience.

                                                                                            3,073 Reviews

                                                                                            1. Amy

                                                                                              Columbus

                                                                                              2 reviews

                                                                                              5.0

                                                                                              2 reviews

                                                                                              Dined 2 days ago

                                                                                              1. Overall 5
                                                                                              2. Food 5
                                                                                              3. Service 5
                                                                                              4. Ambience 4
                                                                                              Celebrate my son’s birthday here. Food and service were both great.

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                                                                                            2. Donna

                                                                                              VIP

                                                                                              Cincinnati

                                                                                              43 reviews

                                                                                              5.0

                                                                                              43 reviews

                                                                                              Dined 2 days ago

                                                                                              1. Overall 5
                                                                                              2. Food 5
                                                                                              3. Service 5
                                                                                              4. Ambience 5
                                                                                              Delicious as usual and Jada and Kiera took care of our every need. A fun time again.

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                                                                                            3. Allison

                                                                                              Tampa

                                                                                              1 review

                                                                                              5.0

                                                                                              1 review

                                                                                              Dined 3 days ago

                                                                                              1. Overall 5
                                                                                              2. Food 5
                                                                                              3. Service 4
                                                                                              4. Ambience 5
                                                                                              We were in the back room which was lovely for my older parents who have a harder time hearing. The food was amazing, but not too much that you feel sick after eating! The cocktails were to DIE for! Our waiter was funny and kind. Made a reservation for me and my girls to go there for our Christmas dinner the same week!

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                                                                                            4. Alisa

                                                                                              Cincinnati

                                                                                              20 reviews

                                                                                              5.0

                                                                                              20 reviews

                                                                                              Dined 3 days ago

                                                                                              1. Overall 5
                                                                                              2. Food 5
                                                                                              3. Service 5
                                                                                              4. Ambience 5
                                                                                              Always a great experience! We went after seeing The Grinch, loved that they had a Grinch themed menu options!! Service was excellent! Food was amazing! Highly recommend!

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                                                                                            5. JARLYN

                                                                                              Cincinnati

                                                                                              4 reviews

                                                                                              5.0

                                                                                              4 reviews

                                                                                              Dined 4 days ago

                                                                                              1. Overall 5
                                                                                              2. Food 4
                                                                                              3. Service 4
                                                                                              4. Ambience 5
                                                                                              We had a great time before the Grinch show at Aronoff. The food was really good, ambiance for a 5 year old was great as well. The food took a little longer than expected but when my steak was wrong, they quickly corrected it. Great dinner before a show!

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                                                                                            6. Sandy

                                                                                              Cincinnati

                                                                                              5 reviews

                                                                                              5.0

                                                                                              5 reviews

                                                                                              Dined 4 days ago

                                                                                              1. Overall 5
                                                                                              2. Food 5
                                                                                              3. Service 5
                                                                                              4. Ambience 5
                                                                                              Enjoyed the atmosphere, food and service! Thank you!

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                                                                                            7. Amanda

                                                                                              VIP

                                                                                              Cincinnati

                                                                                              17 reviews

                                                                                              5.0

                                                                                              17 reviews

                                                                                              Dined 4 days ago

                                                                                              1. Overall 5
                                                                                              2. Food 4
                                                                                              3. Service 5
                                                                                              4. Ambience 5
                                                                                              Had a slight miscommunication when we got there about the pre-show drinks. Caleb, our amazing waiter, cleared it up. All-in-all, the food was fabulous. And Caleb made sure we had a fantastic day.

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                                                                                            8. Aimee

                                                                                              New Orleans

                                                                                              1 review

                                                                                              5.0

                                                                                              1 review

                                                                                              Dined 4 days ago

                                                                                              1. Overall 5
                                                                                              2. Food 5
                                                                                              3. Service 5
                                                                                              4. Ambience 5
                                                                                              We had a great time with our young boys before a musical. Food was good; drinks were good; atmosphere was fun and festive. Try the Scottish egg.

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                                                                                            9. Brian

                                                                                              Cincinnati

                                                                                              1 review

                                                                                              2.0

                                                                                              1 review

                                                                                              Dined 4 days ago

                                                                                              1. Overall 2
                                                                                              2. Food 2
                                                                                              3. Service 3
                                                                                              4. Ambience 5
                                                                                              This used to be a great spot. For this visit, after waiting a long time for service, I started by ordering a nice whiskey, neat. It came out with ice, so I asked for it to be replaced. They strained the ice out of it(except for one cube they missed) and brought it back. After asking again, the finally replaced it with a neat whiskey. The appetizers were great. About 25 minutes after ordering, they came to inform us that they were out of mashed potatoes (this is a Friday night and mashed potatoes are a feature in multiple dishes), so the 2 people who ordered bangers and mash had to either substitute or pick something else. So… bangers and potato chunks? The waitress was very friendly and accommodating. The dessert was also delicious.

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                                                                                            10. Amanda

                                                                                              Cincinnati

                                                                                              5 reviews

                                                                                              1.0

                                                                                              5 reviews

                                                                                              Dined 5 days ago

                                                                                              1. Overall 1
                                                                                              2. Food 3
                                                                                              3. Service 1
                                                                                              4. Ambience 2
                                                                                              I go to Nicholson's a lot before going to the plays at the Aronoff. We were seated at 5:30 but our server got three tables at the same time. We waited forever for drinks, never got the appetizer that we ordered. Our food took so long to come out, that even though my son asked for no sauce on his burger but it had the sauce. I had to ask for our bill before the food came out so that we would make it to the plays on time. Very nice server but she could not keep up with all her tables.

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                                                                                            FAQs

                                                                                            Nicholson's Fine Food & Whisk(e)y offers delivery in partnership with Uber Eats. Nicholson's Fine Food & Whisk(e)y also offers takeaway which you can order by calling the restaurant at (513) 564-9111.

                                                                                            Nicholson's Fine Food & Whisk(e)y is rated 4.5 stars by 3073 OpenTable diners.

                                                                                            Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

                                                                                            Make a booking

                                                                                            2 people
                                                                                            7:00 pm
                                                                                            Booked 31 times today
                                                                                            Experiences are available.

                                                                                            Order delivery or takeout

                                                                                            Google Map for Nicholson's Fine Food & Whisk(e)y

                                                                                            625 Walnut St, Cincinnati, OH 45202

                                                                                            Dining areas

                                                                                            Additional information

                                                                                            • Cross Street
                                                                                              Between 6th and 7th, Across from the Aronoff Theater
                                                                                            • Area
                                                                                              Central Business District
                                                                                            • Hours of Operation
                                                                                              Mon–Thu 11:00 am–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 11:00 am–11:00 pm Sun 10:00 am–9:00 pm
                                                                                            • Price
                                                                                              $30 and under
                                                                                            • Cuisines
                                                                                              Gastro Pub, Breakfast, Seafood
                                                                                            • Dining style
                                                                                              Casual Dining
                                                                                            • Dress code
                                                                                              Casual Dress
                                                                                            • Parking details
                                                                                              Private Parking
                                                                                            • Payment Options
                                                                                              AMEX, Carte Blanche, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
                                                                                            • Executive Chef
                                                                                              Cameron Bloomer
                                                                                            • Entertainment
                                                                                              Bourbon & Blues - Live music every Thursday 6pm-9pm
                                                                                            • Additional
                                                                                              Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Delivery, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeaway, Wheelchair Access, Wine
                                                                                            • Website
                                                                                              http://www.nicholsonspub.com/
                                                                                            • Phone number
                                                                                              (513) 564-9111
                                                                                            • Private party facilities
                                                                                              Nicholson’s is located directly across from the Aronoff Center for Arts. Nicholson’s has the largest selection of Single Malt Scotch in the region.We are a great destination for your next rehearsal dinner, graduation, business dinner or birthday party.

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