Posts with tag 'Local Businesses'

Fizzy, often fruity, and just a little bit sweet, hard seltzer is quickly becoming a favorite drink among those who prefer a lighter flavor profile when indulging. Cincinnati seltzer lovers are in luck: The city is home to some of the most popular hard seltzer producers in the state, and many of its bars serve at least one brand. The following nine bars are some of the best places to enjoy a happy hour hard seltzer in and around Cincinnati. 

Sundry and Vice

18 W. 13th St., Over-the-Rhine, OH, 45202

Full of gleaming glass and sophisticated wood paneling, Sundry and Vice is a small old-fashioned bar with a classy, almost academic atmosphere. Its front window looks almost like a curio cabinet. Inside, patrons can sit atop the tall leather-covered bar stools and order drinks with captivating names like the Clover Club, the Jade Effect, and the Miracle Finnish. 

In addition to their cocktail menu, Sundry and Vice also serves a pair of highballs made with classic New York Seltzer. You can choose from either mezcal mixed with Root Beer seltzer or vodka mixed with Peach Soda seltzer.

March First Brewing

7885 E. Kemper Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45249 

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Named for the day Ohio was founded (March 1, 1803), the March First Brewery is extremely proud of their state and heritage. This company produces the locally beloved Astra Hard Seltzer line of products, which was named to celebrate Ohio's under-recognized contributions to the field of space exploration.  

You can visit the brewery and stop by the on-site bar to sample a few flavors of Astra seltzer drinks, including Bomb Pop, Red Cream Soda, and Crush. March First also serves plenty of food to accompany their drinks, including sandwiches, chips, and delicious fresh pizzas straight from the stone ovens of their pizza kitchen.

Fowling Warehouse

2940 Highland Ave. #230, Cincinnati, OH 45212 

Part bar and part bowling alley, Fowling Warehouse might just be the best place in Cincinnati for hard seltzer lovers. In spring 2021 they hosted Cincinnati's very first Seltzer Fest, a celebratory exhibition with nearly a hundred different types of hard seltzer from local and national brands on tap.  

Fowling Warehouse also offers a wide selection of hard seltzer from local partners year-round. One particularly fun menu offering is their Mystery Seltzer, an order which will get you one random can of hard seltzer from a selection of over 30 flavors. This can be a fun way to get your hard seltzer fix without limiting yourself to the same old standby flavors you always go for.

The Rooftop (Braxton Brewing Company) 

27 W. 7th St., Covington, KY 41011

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Prefer to sip your drinks in the cool, refreshing night air? The Rooftop is an open-air bar that has recently opened on top of the Braxton Brewing Company building. With 5,000 square feet of space and plenty of on-site amenities to enjoy (including lounge-style seating, umbrellas and canopies, a grassy lawn area, and more), this establishment offers a relaxed setting and an incredible view of Cincinnati's skyline.  

The Rooftop's extensive drink menu includes four flavors of VIVE hard seltzer, including Sunrise Punch and Southern Punch. The fruity profiles of these picks matches perfectly with the bar's breezy atmosphere. Be sure to visit when the weather is good for the best possible experience!

Woodburn Brewing 

2800 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206 

Woodburn Brewing is a modern bar with a deep respect for its historical roots. The company chose to use phoenix iconography in its branding to celebrate the resurgence of Ohio's brewing culture in recent years. Now, they have become an integral part of this thriving sub-culture. The owners have gone the extra mile to create a diverse entertainment experience to complement their enticing array of drinks. The bar regularly hosts events like trivia nights, live performances, and even yoga classes on the premises. 

On top of their artisan beer, this bar also serves several flavors of Astra hard seltzer, including Pink Lemonade and Baja Blast. They also offer Blackberry Breeze hard seltzer from Ohio's own FigLeaf Brewing Company.

The Comfort Station 

793 E. McMillian St., Cincinnati, OH 45206

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Thanks to its offbeat location, The Comfort Station is one of the most distinctive bars in the Cincinnati area. The building was originally built as a public restroom and bathhouse back in the early 1910s and was recently converted into a commercial bar space by the same team that founded Sundry and Vice, another bar on this list. Patrons still enter the bar using the original Women's room door, an excellent touch that makes your visit feel unique from the moment you walk in.

This bright and intimate bar is all about fostering connections, and patrons are encouraged to bring outside food and stay a while if they want to. As for drinks, most are handcrafted cocktails that you won't find anywhere else. For instance, the bar's signature Mass Communicatin' hard seltzer cocktail blends the fruity flavors of strawberry and citrus with more complex notes of ginger and amaro.

Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom 

1727 Logan St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

The Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom is a relatively recent addition to the Samuel Adams Brewery, but it has already grown a considerable local following. With both indoor and outdoor spaces for mingling and a growing clientele, this is an up-and-coming social spot for the city's younger crowd.  

The bar's menu is largely focused on promoting their fresh-brewed Samuel Adams beer, but they also offer some Truly Hard Seltzer (one of the other brands owned by their parent company, the Boston Beer Company) and other drinks. Try a few different options as you relax in one of their leather-upholstered armchairs or admire the rustic barrel wall that pulls together their dark wood décor.

Anjou

2804 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206

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Anjou is a very new bar that the owners decided to open after seeing so many of their favorite hangouts close during the 2020 pandemic. While it is still working to establish itself as a recreational venue, its bright, airy atmosphere gives it a unique appeal that should help it to stand out from the local competition. 

Anjou serves Braxton Brewing's VIVE Dragonfruit and Mango hard seltzers as part of their lineup of local beers and spirits. The light fruity taste of these drinks goes perfectly with the cheery surroundings, but make sure you don't visit too late – the bar's doors close by midnight at the latest.

Millions Café 

3210 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226 

If you prefer a casual atmosphere while you're out on the town, Millions Café is the place for you. This modest-looking dive bar serves an impressive selection of hard seltzers from both local and national brands, including Astra, Truly, and White Claw.  

You can sip your drink while listening to music from the live DJ, participating in the bar's weekly trivia night, or just chatting with your fellow patrons. This bar is known to be very laid-back, so it's a great hangout spot for people who don't usually spend much time in Cincinnati's nightlife scene.

Get Your Fizzy On 

Which Cincinnati bar will you be sipping hard seltzer at next Friday night? 

New Year's resolutions like losing weight are so last century. In 2022, why not resolve to learn more about your community with the help of Cutler Homes and LoLo Gifts?

We've teamed up to provide a monthly series of free gifts spotlighting local small businesses. Whether you pick up croissants in Northeast Ohio, appetizers in Columbus, or coffee in Cincinnati, make a resolution to check out these fabulous merchants. 

January Gifts

Canton: Gourmet Cupcakes

Akron: Smoked Gouda Mac 'N' Cheese Bites

Medina: A Candy Apple

Kent/Stow: $10 Certificate

Columbus: Smoked Gouda Mac 'N' Cheese Bites

Wooster: A Pulled Pork Sandwich

Cincinnati: A Sandwich or Bagel, and a Coffee

Cleveland: Two Croissants

Canton: Gourmet Cupcakes

Nom Nom Cupcake Factory

4866 Everhard Rd. NW, Canton, OH 44718

Who says you can't improve on perfection? Cupcakes are heavenly, but the gourmet flavors at Nom Nom Cupcake Factory will take your appreciation to a whole new level.

About Nom Nom Cupcake Factory

The baked treats at Nom Nom Cupcake Factory are so amazing that delighted customers use them as wedding cakes. Each week features a rotating selection of flavors such as Salted Caramel and Cinnamon Toast. As if that weren't enough, the bakery has upped their game by offering gourmet flavored popcorn.

Contact and Hours

330.705.2560

Monday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Tuesday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m.

Akron: Smoked Gouda Mac 'N' Cheese Bites

The Rail - Akron

3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, OH 44333

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Yes, the blue-box mac 'n' cheese is classic comfort food. But get ready to enjoy the blissful sensation of biting into the smoked Gouda mac 'n' cheese bites from The Rail.

About The Rail

As a spinoff of Mike Mariola's City Square Steakhouse, it's no surprise that The Rail serves first-class burgers. Beef is 100 percent locally sourced, with several specialty burgers as well as extensive build-your-own options. The Rail is also known for their delicious four-cheese scratch-made mac 'n' cheese. 

Contact and Hours

330.864.7245

Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Medina: A Candy Apple

Candyapple & Co.

109 W. Washington St., Medina, OH 44256

Candy apples aren't just for fall. Bite into one of these delicious sweet treats with your gift from Candyapple & Co.

About Candyapple & Co.

Appropriately, Candyapple & Co. is an "offshoot" of a landscaping company specializing in orchards. Their dipped apples go far beyond caramel and candy to encompass more than 100 flavors, including root beer float, carrot cake, and sparkling wine. Be sure to check out their boutique with jewelry, skincare products, and other great gift items.

Contact and Hours

330.635.0132

Tuesday - Friday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Kent/Stow: $10 Certificate

Brimfield Bread Oven

3956 OH-43 #2, Kent, OH 44240

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Bread is sometimes referred to as "the staff of life." You're sure to agree after you use your $10 to try one of the tasty loaves from Brimfield Bread Oven.

About Brimfield Bread Oven

Technology may be king, but Brimfield Bread Oven still believes in old-school techniques. At this European-style bakery, all products are made from scratch with top-quality ingredients and baked in a wood-fired oven. Stop by on Saturday between 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. and take home a traditional wood-fired pizza for dinner.

Contact and Hours

330.474.7800

Thursday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Columbus: Smoked Gouda Mac 'N' Cheese Bites

The Rail - Dublin

5839 Frantz Rd., Dublin, OH 43016

Even chefs at five-star restaurants agree that everything tastes better fried. That goes for mac 'n' cheese, the granddaddy of comfort foods, especially when they're made with gourmet cheese like the smoked Gouda mac 'n' cheese bites at The Rail.

About The Rail

Over the past few years, the gourmet Angus beef burgers at The Rail have earned awards and recognition from local and national publications. One of the favorites is the Mojo, made with a blend of beef and andouille sausage and getting some added kick from a topping of jalapeño slaw. Cool things down with one of two dozen brands of Ohio craft beer on hand.

Contact and Hours

614.725.3200

Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Wooster: A Pulled Pork Sandwich

Omahoma Bob's BBQ

128 S. Market St., Wooster, OH 44691

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Sample some legendary Southern BBQ without leaving town. Make sure you have plenty of napkins ready when you get your pulled pork sandwich at Omahoma Bob's BBQ. 

About Omahoma Bob's BBQ

Omahoma Bob's BBQ achieves their authentic Texas-style taste with a dry rub of spices and classic low-and-slow cooking in the smoker. Hot Italian sausages and German brats are also created in-house. Complete your meal with turnip greens, red beans and rice, hush puppies, and other traditional sides. 

Contact and Hours

330.262.9871

Tuesday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Cincinnati: A Sandwich or a Bagel, and a Coffee

Marx Hot Bagels

9701 Kenwood Rd., Blue Ash, KY 45242

Marx Hot Bagels has been a Cincinnati favorite since 1969. With the first bite of your sandwich or bagel, you'll understand why.

About Marx Hot Bagels

Don't settle for those frozen grocery store bagels. Marx Hot Bagels serves more than 30 varieties, all baked fresh daily. They make a perfect canvas for egg salad, lox, hummus, or just a simple schmear of cream cheese. Change things up with some bagel bread, bagel pretzels, or bagel thins.

Contact and Hours

513.891.5542

Monday - Sunday: 6 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Cleveland: Two Croissants

On the Rise Artisan Breads

3471 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44118

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Croissants are the superstars of baked goods, serving equally well as breakfast pastry and base for a savory sandwich. How will you enjoy your two croissants from On the Rise Artisan Breads?

About On the Rise Artisan Breads

At On the Rise Artisan Breads, baking is truly an art. The bakers start work each day before the sun rises, using simple but high-quality ingredients to create breads, rolls, pastries, cookies, and quiches. For a real treat, don't miss the daily specialty flavors such as raisin challah, eclairs, and chocolate cherry batard. 

Contact and Hours

216.320.9923

Tuesday - Friday: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

New Year, New Gifts

Resolve to keep the fun going all year long. Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get our monthly offering of freebies. 

When the snow flies in Ohio, the fun has just begun! With opportunities for skiing, ice skating, winter hiking, and countless other activities, it's the perfect season to enjoy the outdoors in Ohio. Be sure to check out these nine amazing outdoor destinations in Ohio this winter. 

Mill Stream Run Reservation

16200 Valley Pkwy., Strongsville, OH 44136

Tobogganing at the Chalet at Mill Stream Run Reservation is a winter tradition in Northeast Ohio. With its two 700-foot refrigerated ice chutes, Mill Stream Run offers the thrill of a fast-paced toboggan ride all winter long, with or without snow. Just be sure to hold on tight—once you start moving, you're likely to top 50 miles per hour before you reach the bottom! You can always warm up in the Chalet or slow down and explore the park's snowshoe and cross-country ski trails while you're there. Mill Stream Run Reservation is operated by Cleveland Metro Parks and is just 20 minutes from the city.

Alpine Valley Ski Resort

10620 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026

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One of Ohio's top skiing destinations, Alpine Valley Ski Resort is nestled among the rolling hills of Northeast Ohio, less than 40 minutes from Cleveland. Their varied terrain includes gentle slopes that are great for beginners, as well as some more advanced slopes for seasoned skiers. Alpine Valley Ski Resort also offers equipment rentals and hands-on skiing courses with skilled instructors to help new skiers learn the ropes. If you get a little hungry between runs, stop in at the on-site restaurant for a bite, or warm up with a beverage at the Snow Belt Saloon.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

5793 Boston Mills Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264

Endless winter adventures await at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This wild 32,500-acre playground in Northeast Ohio includes 125 miles of hiking trails open year-round. The 19.7-mile Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is especially popular among cross-country skiers thanks to its smooth grade, while the rugged Ledges Trail meanders among large rock formations that become encrusted in icicles every winter. Cuyahoga Valley National Park also offers some great opportunities for snow tubing and sledding, especially in the Kendall Hills section.

Blendon Woods Metro Park

4265 E. Dublin Granville Rd., Columbus, OH 43230

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Blendon Woods Metro Park is one of the best places in Columbus to get away from city life for a while and experience nature. This 653-acre park includes a waterfowl refuge and nature center, with an elevated platform overlooking Thoreau Lake that's a popular year-round spot for bird watching. Blendon Woods Metro Park also includes several trails that are perfect for a winter hike. The 2-mile Sugarbush Trail is especially popular among cross-country skiers. Best of all, the park has a shallow, man-made pond that freezes over in winter to form a natural ice skating rink.

Buckeye Lake

2905 Leibs Island Rd. NE, Millersport, OH 43046

A mere 30 minutes from Columbus, Buckeye Lake is one of the great winter destinations in Central Ohio. When the 3,100-acre lake freezes over in winter, it's one of Ohio's best ice fishing spots, thanks to its abundant populations of saugeye, panfish, and bass. Stop in one of the gear shops or cafes around the lake to warm up, and be sure to visit on January 22, 2022, for Winterfest. This annual event includes food and drink, live music, and various events around the lake, culminating in a spectacular fireworks show. Buckeye Lake is accessible for fishing through Buckeye Lake State Park, including a 4-mile shoreline path that connects the North Shore to Lieb's Island.

Mad River Mountain

1000 Snow Valley Rd., Zanesville, OH 43360

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Central Ohio's premier ski and snowboard destination, Mad River Mountain is located just an hour from Columbus in the rolling hills of Zanesville. Skiing is available December through March most years on the 1,460-foot mountain, with a vertical drop of 300 feet. Mad River Mountain offers challenging runs for experienced skiers, as well as a learning area with easier terrain for beginners. There's even a tubing area that kids can enjoy while the grown-ups ski and a bar and grill in the lodge that serves up tasty drinks and pub grub.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden opened in 1875, making it the second-oldest zoo in the United States. It's one of the absolute must-visit attractions in the Cincinnati area, no matter the season. In winter, visitors have some particularly special events to look forward to, including the spectacular PNC Festival of Lights. Visit on a winter weekend for Penguin Days, an annual event that includes discounted admission and a chance to meet the zoo's resident penguins up close and in person. Penguin Days goes from January 10 to March 11.

Fountain Square Ice Rink

520 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Fountain Square is at the center of Downtown Cincinnati. Every year from November through February, the square is overtaken by a massive outdoor ice rink open to public skating. A 90-minute ice skating session including skate rentals is just $10, and kids 4 and under can skate for free. The rink also includes a separate area for ice bumper cars, which are a heck of a lot of fun. Visit after dark to see Fountain Square lit up in holiday lights, and be sure to check out some of the shops and eateries that are just footsteps away. It's a perfect place for a romantic winter night out in Cincinnati. 

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum

1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013

An outdoor sculpture gallery spanning more than 300 acres, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum is a unique place in any season. But it's a particularly magical place in winter, when the trees, trails, and more than 70 sculptures are dusted with snow. Every year, the park also hosts a spectacular holiday lights display. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum is located in the community of Hamilton, less than 30 minutes from Downtown Cincinnati. 

Let It Snow

Where will you be spending your time outdoors in Ohio this winter?

If you enjoy spicy food, there's a very important holiday coming up. International Hot and Spicy Food Day is January 16, 2022! Get ready to sweat as you nosh on heat-packed favorites. Whether you prefer to calm the spice with a glass of milk, a slice of bread, or your own unique concoction, we have some incredible restaurants to recommend around Cincinnati.

Thai Express

213 W. McMillan St., Cincinnati, OH 45219

If you'd rather enjoy takeout, Thai Express is a great spot to visit for spicy cuisine. It's a small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant, but they are known throughout the city for their tasty cuisine. They're only a little spicy, but the curry spring rolls are an incredible start to any meal.

Those with a high heat tolerance love the Red Curry at Thai Express. It packs a punch, but the sauce is really rich and flavorful. Other good, spicy choices include the Drunkard's Stir Fry, Panang Curry, and Holy Basil Stir Fry. If you prefer just a hint of spice, the Pad King is a good choice.

Sichuan Chili Chinese Restaurant

10400 Reading Rd. #205b, Cincinnati, OH 45241

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Sichuan Chili Chinese Restaurant has "chili" in the name, so you can bet the food will be spicy! This is a modern, inviting Chinese restaurant open for both lunch and dinner. They even offer online ordering, convenient if your schedule is packed. 

One of the best spicy dishes at Sichuan Chili is the Sichuan Sizzling Beef. In typical Sichuan fashion, it's made with plenty of chili peppers, along with tender sirloin steak. Another favorite is the Red Dry Chili Fish Filets. And if you're on a vegetarian diet, the Kung Pao Tofu is hard to beat.

Zundo Ramen & Donburi

220 W. 12th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

Zundo Ramen & Donburi is a unique Japanese restaurant with a simple, industrial vibe. The exposed ceiling and brick walls make for a fun dining experience. There's even a full bar where you can order a cocktail or a shot of sake as you wait for your meal. Zundo opened in 2017 and quickly became a favorite of ramen lovers in Cincinnati.

Not all Japanese food is spicy, which makes Zundo a good place to go if you're not sure everyone in your party is keen on heat. That being said, they do have some very good spicy dishes. The Spicy Miso Ramen is warm and satisfying on a cold January day. You may also want to try the Katsu Curry Rice or the Curry Udon Noodles.

Lalo Restaurant

26 W. Court St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Lalo Restaurant offers a unique fusion of Pan-Asian and Mexican cuisines. Their space is as artistic as their menu, using a combination of bold colors and patterned wall tile to surround you with wonder. In one corner, there's a statue of a man in a traditional Mexican hat. In another corner, there's traditional Japanese art.

If you're there for the spice, then you have to try Lalo's hot salsa as an appetizer. The Lalo Wings, which come with your choice of Thai sauce or spicy chipotle sauce, are well worth ordering for the table to share. You can't go wrong with any of the tacos. The Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos offer a lovely balance of heat and sweetness, and the Fish Tempura Tacos get a mild dose of heat from Sriracha mayonnaise. 

Uncle Yip's

10736 Reading Rd. #2529, Cincinnati, OH 45241

Uncle Yip's is a casual restaurant serving authentic Chinese food. They have a small but welcoming dining room with a cozy atmosphere. Guests are served green tea in hand-painted Chinese teapots. Uncle Yip's does have a full bar where you can order cocktails, wine, and beer.

While not everything on the menu is spicy, Uncle Yip's offers plenty of choices suitable for International Hot and Spicy Food Day. The Stuffed Chili Peppers With Shrimp are a good choice if you're in the mood for dim sum. The Hong Kong Style Fish Filet is delicious, and of course, you can't go wrong with General Tso's Chicken.

Arrechissimo Restaurant

8100 Blue Ash. Rd., Deer Park, OH 45236

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If you've never tried Venezuelan food before, this is the perfect opportunity. Arrechissimo Restaurant does a wonderful job of recreating the cuisine. They offer online ordering and delivery, but for the most authentic experience, you'll want to dine in. 

Some of the best meals here are definitely the bowls. The Chicken Bowl comes with cilantro rice, sauteed chicken, fried yucca, pico de gallo salad, and sliced avocado. You can choose from spicy and mild cilantro sauces. The empanadas are also delicious. They're $6 apiece, and it's worth ordering a few for your table to enjoy.

Island Frydays

2826 Short Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45219

You don't have to take a vacation to enjoy the flavors of the Caribbean. Island Frydays serves Jamaican favorites, including plenty of spicy specialties, right in Cincinnati. The restaurant was visited by Guy Fierri's show, Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, in 2014. Leo Morgan, the restaurant's founder, is a Jamaican native who attended the University of Cincinnati, Morgan.

One favorite at Island Frydays is the Jerk Chicken. It's juicy, tender, and well-seasoned with the restaurant's own jerk blend. The Beef Patty is also delicious with just a bit of spice. If you're in the mood for finger food, order the Jerk Wings and Fries. You'll leave smiling.

El Barril Mexican Sports Bar & Grill

940 Pavillion St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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If you're in the mood for Mexican food on International Hot and Spicy Food Day, then El Barril Mexican Sports Bar & Grill is a good place to go. You can sit at the bar, watch the big game, and enjoy some margaritas and tacos with friends.

Start the meal off with an order of Jalapeno Rellenos, which pack quite a punch. The Elote, corn covered in mayo, chili powder, and cheese, is also delicious. Tacos are available a la carte, with options including carnitas and lengua, and guests also love the Fajitas Texanas and Shrimp Chimichangas.

Heat It Up

Where will you get your spice on for International Hot and Spicy Food Day?

Winter is a wonderful time for family fun around Ohio, with indoor and outdoor activities that offer something for everyone. Whether you're enjoying some skiing in Northeast Ohio, watching some pro sports with the family in Columbus, or doing some stargazing at a historic observatory in Cincinnati, there's something to look forward to in every corner of Ohio this winter. Our latest guide has all of the delightful details on nine great places for winter family fun around Ohio this year.

Northeast Ohio

Alpine Valley Resort

10620 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026

Just west of Cleveland you'll find Alpine Valley Resort, the perfect place to enjoy some winter sports with the whole family. While it's not the largest ski resort, its smaller size makes it an ideal learning destination for any family members who are still learning how to ski or snowboard. The resort features seven trails from beginner to advanced, along with a terrain park. There's also a talented team of instructors ready to teach visitors of all ages the basics of skiing and snowboarding.

Akron's Lock 3

200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308

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The temperature may be dropping, but that only means that the fun is heating up in downtown Akron at Lock 3. This is where you'll find Akron's most popular outdoor ice skating rink, along with loads of other fun outdoor attractions. There's a nine-hole miniature golf course, rentable igloos where you can enjoy a meal in a unique setting, and fire pits where you can warm up. You'll also find a busy schedule of events during the holidays, like breakfast with Santa and dinner with the Grinch.

MAPS Air Museum

2260 International Pkwy., North Canton, OH 44720

For a great mix of education and family fun, try a visit to the fascinating MAPS Air Museum, which allows you to get hands-on with some of history's most impressive aircraft. You can actually sit in the cockpit of many historic aircraft, and see what it's like to be a pilot. There are also tons of interesting educational exhibits that trace aviation history from the early 1900s to the present day.

Columbus Area

Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065

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In most cities that are fortunate enough to have both an aquarium and zoo, you'd have to make two trips to enjoy both attractions. That's not the case at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, where you can enjoy it all in one fun-filled day. There are thousands of animals to see in countless habitats, and plenty of fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy along the way as you explore. You'll also find special experiences that allow you to feed the animals, see how the zoo works behind the scenes, and see fascinating shows like Dive into Adventure.

Columbus Blue Jackets Game at Nationwide Arena

200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Columbus, OH 43215

The Blue Jackets are Ohio's only NHL team, and they're located close to home in Columbus! A trip to Nationwide Arena to see a Blue Jackets game is a great way to enjoy a winter evening with the family, and see some of hockey's biggest stars up close. There are special family ticket packages available, which include tickets to the game, food, and drinks for one price. On some nights, those family ticket packages even include the opportunity to skate on the ice before the game with the Blue Jackets mascot or try your luck on the ice with some slap shots after the game.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

157 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219

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A massive indoor playground for both body and mind, LEGOLAND Discovery Center consistently ranks as one of the most popular attractions for families around Columbus. Kids will love building unique creations, racing LEGO cars, enjoying fun rides, and exploring a scaled replica of the city of Columbus made from more than 1.5 million LEGO blocks. Catch a popular LEGO movie at the 4D cinema, or take a behind-the-scenes factory tour to see how your favorite LEGO products are created.

Cincinnati Area

Cincinnati Observatory

3489 Observatory Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45208

Did you know that Cincinnati is home to one of the world's oldest public telescopes still in use today? The Cincinnati Observatory is the perfect place to plan a fun, educational family outing that will allow you to explore the stars. Visit at night to participate in the Astronomy Evenings program, which includes a guided tour and an opportunity to look at the stars through the observatory's telescopes. Or stop by during the day to see the facilities and take a historic walking tour of the lovely area around the observatory.

Bumper Cars on Ice at Fountain Square

520 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Bumper cars on ice. If those four words won't get your kids excited this winter, what will? Every year, Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati is transformed into an icy playground, with bumper cars on ice and so much more. Buy a full pass to enjoy both bumper cars and ice skating, or simply choose one ticket for your favorite activity. The rink is open seven days a week and is also available for event rentals if you're planning an outing with a larger group. You can rent all of the equipment that you'll need at the rental stand, including dual-blade skates that make it easier for younger kids to learn the basics of ice skating.

Cincinnati Museum Center

1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203

Located in the beautifully restored Union Terminal, the Cincinnati Museum Center mixes education and entertainment in a way that few attractions can match. The Cincinnati Museum Center is home to the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, the Cincinnati Children's Museum, the Cincinnati History Library & Archives, and a state-of-the-art Omnimax Theater. The latest featured exhibit is The Science Behind Pixar, which provides a fascinating look at how some of the most popular movies in the world are made.

Your Own Winter Wonderland

How will you turn Ohio into your own winter wonderland this year?