Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Clifton

We went to the American In Paris dinner and had an amazing meal. The dishes were thoughtful and delicious and expedited with care and precision. The chef even stopped at our table to chat and thank us for coming-class act! My only complaint is that we were seated in the bar area and very far removed from the excitement of the main dining area which had a view of the kitchen. It definitely detracted from the experience. Hope to go to the next one and sit in a better seat!

What a fantastic experience from beginning to end. The service was the best we’ve had in any restaurant let alone Cincinnati. The empanadas were perfection; the fried goat cheese salad impeccable. I don’t think there is a bad dish in the house. Karlyn was so attentive and such a joy. Sullivan was an excellent sommelier with vast knowledge and a great personality to go with it. We gave him our wine style preferences and he paired everything perfectly. Alfio even visited our table which felt super special. Alfio’s is a top notch experience that I would recommend to everyone. We’ve visited so many of the best restaurants in Cincinnati and this one breaks our top 3. Go as soon as you can!

Great table. Great Server. Great food. I didn't really enjoy the cinnamon in the affogato (sp) but I have the palate of a first grader, in general.

Michael and Alexia were exceptional. They were very attentive while also being mindful of our conversation. We never feel rushed when visiting but felt especially comfortable around the bar area last night. As always, our food was stellar. We’ll be back again soon!

When it comes to fine Italian dining, Sotto sets a gold standard with its artful execution of classic dishes and an inviting atmosphere that feels both upscale and intimate. Their small plates menu, designed for sharing and savoring, offers a journey through the very best of Italian cuisine. The lunch began with their take on Cacio e Pepe. Simple in theory, yet incredibly complex in flavor, this dish showcased perfectly al dente pasta coated in a glossy sauce of Pecorino Romano and freshly cracked black pepper. Every bite was rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced, capturing the soul of Roman cooking. Next came the pork loin, a true standout of the evening. Cooked to tender perfection, the meat was juicy and flavorful, paired with lemon butter sauce and capers that highlighted the natural richness of the pork. The subtle smoky undertones and crispy exterior added depth, making it a dish to savor slowly. The Bombologti (rigatoni with pancetta) was another highlight, offering a delightful combination of textures and bold, smoky flavors. The perfectly cooked rigatoni absorbed a light, silky tomato-based sauce, while the pancetta added a savory, crispy bite to each forkful. It was a dish that felt both indulgent and comforting, a perfect balance of rustic charm and refined technique. What tied the meal together was a glass of Barbera d’Alba, The wine’s bright acidity and red fruit notes complemented the richness of the pancetta and pork loin beautifully, while its smooth tannins enhanced the creaminess of the Cacio e Pepe. It was a pairing that elevated the experience to new heights, showcasing Sotto’s attention to detail in both its menu and wine selection. The portions of each dish were ideal for sharing, allowing us to indulge in a variety of flavors without feeling overwhelmed. The service was warm and attentive, enhancing the dining experience