See what’s cooking in Cincy these days

The city of Cincinnati has a diverse culinary scene that has evolved over decades and has risen to the occasion to be what it is today. There's much to explore in “Porkopolis” in a food-filled day while covering several plates in two states. Restaurants in this Midwest region spill over from Ohio to Kentucky, but many of the venues are walkable to each other or just a short ride.

Start the day off right with a hearty breakfast at Coppin's Restaurant in Hotel Covington and order the CVG with eggs, meat, potatoes and toast. The upscale hotel at 638 Madison Avenue is named after Coppin's Department Store, originally at the same site and there's even a convenient walk-up window to order items for the road.

A little off the beaten path lies Mochiko in East Walnut Hills for more early morning choices. This James Beard finalist received Outstanding Pastry Chef/Baker and supplies a standout item with a croissant filled with purple yam jam cream.

Findley Market is Ohio's oldest market and it's a cultural conglomeration chock-full of history in 40,000 square feet. Shoppers can load up on a special German dish of steel-cut oats and ground meat called goetta at Eckerlin Meats or choose from vegan options in places like Harmony Plant Fare. Head to Dean's Mediterranean for an over 35-year-old family business jam-packed with Lebanese food or make a beeline for Gramma Debbie's Kitchen to sample some meatloaf. To set up a walking tour with a knowledgeable guide and learn more, go to cincinnatifoodtours.com

Named after the queer owner's grandmother Rekas Butchery & Deli is the new kid on the Scott Street block. There are big plans in the future, including patio space, for this first-rate wife's club, just like the massive Reuben sandwich!

Another stop to fill that belly up for lunch is Camp Washington Chili, giving a casual diner energy right inside. For over 75 years, spaghetti enthusiasts have been piling chili and cheese on top of noodles for a hearty meal, sometimes ordering it from a drive-thru, which could turn into a hot mess.

There are many dinner options but don't miss Mama's on Main, located at 621 Main Street in Covington, Kentucky, in a quaint little neighborhood where the venue hosts queer weddings and events right on the rooftop. This bustling restaurant boasts robust Italian flavors, so begin with a Focaccia bread service that will invigorate the stomach, then dive into the meatball appetizer to warm up the palate for the main course. The lobster ravioli could sink ships; it's so rich and after eating the pasta, one will want to sop up the thick sauce with a biscuit!

For more, go right on the corner of 1401 Republic Street to Safi Wine Bar, a place that transports dinner parties to Morocco. Bring on the hummus and small plates until one's heart is content.

The narrow building may make Sudova at 22 West Court Street easy to miss, but don't miss out on this delicious Eastern European restaurant that serves up a short rib stroganoff that is out of this world. Following dinner, it's only a hop, skip and jump to dessert and Graeter's Ice Cream. Made in a small batch for over 150 years, French pot ice cream is spun and since this creates minimal air, partakers are left with a thick and unique type of texture. The company can even ship their treats nationwide and guarantee that the product will still be frozen. Now that's a cold bite anyone can sink their teeth into!

For more filling foodie ideas found in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, click on visitcincy.com today!