Discover Findlay Market: Cincinnati’s Culinary Gem
Findlay Market, located in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, is the longest-operating public market in the state of Ohio and one of the oldest in the nation. Since its inception in 1855, the market has experienced both prominence and periods of decline. However, it has risen to become the heart of Cincinnati’s culinary revival, featuring a main market hall and over 50 full-time businesses.
A Culinary Hub for All Visitors
For business travelers, the market’s proximity to Cincinnati’s downtown hotels makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal or unwind between meetings. Additionally, those exploring independently will find it a must-visit destination while checking out downtown museums, monuments, and the vibrant riverfront. Visitors can graze as they go, find a table for people-watching, or gather ingredients for a delightful picnic in one of Cincinnati’s charming parks.
Market Delights Await
The interior of the market is a cook’s paradise, offering fresh seafood, poultry, bulk spices, various cheeses, abundant produce, and fresh-cut flowers. When you need a break, consider visiting Taste of Belgium. Owner Jean-Francois Flechet transitioned from PhD pursuits to recreating the beloved waffles of his upbringing. Since 2008, his traditional cast-iron waffles, made with sugar pearls imported from Belgium, have been an essential treat at the market.
Exploring the Market Square
Outdoor exploration of Findlay Market Square reveals a blend of established vendors and innovative food businesses, showcasing Cincinnati’s unique culinary landscape. Visit Eckerlin Meats, a longstanding butcher in the market, now run by Bob Lillis, the great grandson of founder Ernie Eckerlin, a German immigrant. Be sure to try goetta, a deliciously spiced mixture of beef, pork, and steel-cut oats — a local favorite.
Nearby, Dean’s Mediterranean Imports has provided hard-to-find specialty groceries from Lebanon for over 30 years, catering to worldly cooks and eaters. Today, Dean’s daughter Kate carries on the legacy with a modernized approach.
As hunger strikes, indulge in offerings from The Arepa Place, which specializes in authentic Colombian and Venezuelan street food, preparing everything from scratch. Founder Isis Arrieta-Dennis debuted her creations at a seasonal pop-up in 2016 and, with help from Findlay Kitchen, opened a permanent location in 2018.
Artisan Eats and Sweet Treats
Don’t overlook the Rhined, an artisan cheese shop curated by Stephanie and Dave Webster. Their selection includes American farmstead cheeses from the Ohio River Valley and enticing European imports. Pair your cheese with charcuterie and bread from Sixteen Bricks, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, particularly during their popular raclette nights on Wednesdays.
Finally, round off your market adventure with a visit to Maverick, an award-winning chocolatiers and Ohio’s first bean-to-bar chocolate company. Founded by former aviation engineer Paul Picton and his wife, Marlene, the shop opened in 2014 and quickly became renowned, winning awards for their chocolate creations. Make sure to sample before purchasing a full bar, and don’t forget to grab some of Marlene’s vibrant truffles.
