A first taste of the new Gwynne restaurant
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A view of the dining room early in the day (around 4pm) before the after-work rush. Photos: Casey Weldon/Axios
I got to check out Gwynne, the swanky new downtown bar and restaurant inside the recently opened Fidelity Hotel.
Why it matters: It adds another reason to visit the Central Business District, joining a growing roster of restaurants and bars around Sixth Street.
- Judging by the busy opening week, Cincinnati was ready for it.
The vibe: The restaurant is more intimate than some of downtown's other fine-dining spots, and that's part of its appeal.
- Inspired by the building's Beaux-Arts architecture, it mixes marble tables, brass fixtures and warm wood with oversized arched windows that flood the room with afternoon light.
The separate lounge, with its own entrance off Main Street, doesn't feel like a hotel bar.
- By happy hour, every stool at the bar was full with a mix of Reds fans, hotel guests and downtown regulars.
The downside: No outdoor space.
Zoom in: Chef Brad Bernstein's menu leans into Ohio River Valley ingredients with seasonal dishes, like watermelon and cucumber gazpacho ($9), fried green tomatoes ($14), duck ($48) and the Filet Gwynne ($87).
- There's also a lounge menu for lighter bites, and an extensive wine list, local beers and a standout cocktail program.
What I ordered: The bright and refreshing Garden Secrets gin drink ($16) with sweet tomato liqueur. It was a surprise hit for this tomato-hating guy.
- Then the pork belly ($18) for an appetizer followed by the prime rib ($70).
If you go: 610 Main St. The dining room is open for dinner 4-10pm daily and brunch on weekends. Menu.
- The lounge serves breakfast weekdays and its all-day menu until 11pm daily.
