Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Norwood

Wow!! Aperture is yet another example of why Cincinnati is truly a foodie city. Very impressed with every not-so-little-detail Chef Jordan Anthony Brown put into this restaurant. The space is modern, yet intimate; the lighting is a perfect balance of mood and softness; even with a completely full restaurant, it was never loud; sitting next to the windows on a cold, rainy night, we never felt any temperature difference; the service from everyone was equally excellent, professional, friendly and attentive. Now, for the food. First, watching the chefs in the open kitchen was entertainment in itself. I could have watched this intimate look into the passion and precision of the preparing, creating, and plating each individual dish all night. Every dish we ordered was uniquely different in its presentation and flavor: simple, yet fresh, curious and delicious with combinations I have not previously encountered. The Fennel sausage pasta was perfect in its sauce distribution, flavor and al dente texture. The Stripped Bass delivered a flaky, crisp fish in an emulsion of light chowder-like sauce-Unexpectedly amazing. The simple fire-heated pita with the eggplant hummus was no less impressive. Thank you Chef Jordan Anthony Brown, and the people that work along side you to remind us how decadent and fun eating can be when made with love and dedication.

Everything was very nice. We went the day after valentine’s Day because we know everybody would be going on Valentine’s Day. We arrived early, not knowing what traffic was gonna be like. We were seated within a few minutes. Our waitress was wonderful. The shrimp toast was amazing. The crab raccoon was one of the best I ever had. Me being a shrimp lover I would’ve liked a little more shrimp in the shrimp and mushrooms, but it was fantastic. My husband ate every single bit of his moo guy pan. I had leftovers obviously.

Fantastic dinner experience. Have dined here before and love the quality of the food and the ambiance. Service was particularly exceptional. Our waiter Tyler was super knowledgeable and helpful with recommendations and so personable. He really took the dining experience to the next level. His recommendations of braised short rib and Chilean sea bass special did not disappoint. Packed full of flavor and pleasantly plated. The chocolate caramel tiramisu was top tier and we even got to try to chocolate Bundt cake with peanut butter whip which was rich and decadent. Overall a great date night find and fantastic dinner experience.

E & O has become a regular stop on my Thursday night dinners with 2 Grandsons, 21 & 18 College Students. Both like the selections of Sushi offered plus the added bonus of a variety of other offerings. The shared appetizers always start out meal and I think the Guacamole deserves a mention although every restaurant has a version these days, but E&O elevates what has become a ho-hum type of dish. Last night Emma was our server, she kept everything flowing without being pushy, just the right amount of attention. It was a busy night, but the table was kept clutter free as the busser made sure that empty plates were removed. I would also recommend the Bruch on the weekends, Coffee Drinks Mimosas and a creative menu makes for a great start to your day, or at least it does mine.

Great atmosphere, we sat at a regular table. Service was quick and attentive. Food was delicious! The Wild Ginger Tini was my favorite choice of the night. The sushi was a classic hit!