The Rookwood Bar and Restaurant: Dinner in a kiln
Dinner in a kiln. Nowhere else in the world can diners enjoy the ambience of a genuine historic landmark that once produced the country’s most beautiful and treasured pottery and tile. The Rookwood Bar and Restaurant’s exposed brick, maze of pipes, and many open kilns pay tribute to the building's history, the former factory and studio of founder Maria Longworth Nichols Storer and the artists who created Cincinnati’s world renowned Rookwood Pottery.
And the food here is good too.
Diners will fall in love at first sight as they drive into the parking lot of Rookwood Bar and Restaurant. Perhaps mainly because there is a parking lot. In Mount Adams, a dense community located 818 feet above sea level, with narrow winding roads, parking is difficult. But the views are terrific. From Rookwood’s parking lot you can see miles of the city skyline.
Enter the tudor-style factory with tall ceilings and wide open spaces, and the host will seat you. Soon, a friendly server will offer you a drink along with the menu, and it's worth noting that the Rookwood Bar and Restaurant takes pride in its cocktails, mixed by experienced bartenders. Additionally, they offer a wide selection of beer and wine and are eager to suggest appropriate pairings to complement your meal.
The menu, seemingly always in flux, offers freshly made traditional American food with original twists. Among the “small plates” you’ll find Deviled Eggs, creamy yolks with the added touches of applewood smoked bacon and sweet jalapeño relish. And then there's the ridiculous Chicken Fried Bacon. A nutritionist’s nightmare, the dish is crisp and decadently delicious. Rookwood does provide healthier options as well, including a variety of salads and Fresh Fish, a dish served with grilled asparagus, salsa verde, and grilled lemon.
HelloCincinnati Tip: Want to dine in a kiln? You’re not alone! Be sure to request kiln-seating while making reservations.
Posted by Barbara David
