Cincinnati, Ohio, a vibrant city nestled along the Ohio River, renowned for its unique chili, historic neighborhoods, and thriving arts scene, also boasts an incredibly rich and diverse culinary landscape. Beyond the stadium lights and upscale dining, the Queen City is teeming with iconic local eateries serving up fantastic, budget-friendly bites that truly capture the city's innovative and community-driven spirit. We've explored cherished institutions and neighborhood gems, along with glowing customer reviews, to bring you a curated list of 10 must-try dishes, all for under $10, that will satisfy your cravings and introduce you to the authentic, delicious flavors of Cincinnati.

1. Chili 3-Way from Skyline Chili

  • Restaurant: Skyline Chili

  • Description: The iconic Cincinnati Chili 3-Way – spaghetti topped with Cincinnati's distinctive, subtly spiced chili and a mound of shredded cheddar cheese.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Skyline Chili is *the* quintessential Cincinnati food experience, a local institution with deep roots in the city's culinary identity. While it has expanded, its heart remains firmly in Cincinnati. Yelp reviewers consistently call it "The quintessential Cincinnati experience" and praise its "unique flavor." It's a foundational, affordable, and incredibly satisfying taste of Cincinnati that every visitor must try.

  • Price: ~$6-$8 (for a regular 3-way)

  • Location: Multiple locations in Cincinnati (e.g., 254 E 5th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202)

2. Cheese Coney from Gold Star Chili

  • Restaurant: Gold Star Chili

  • Description: A hot dog nestled in a steamed bun, topped with Cincinnati's signature chili, mustard, and a generous heap of shredded cheddar cheese.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Gold Star Chili is another major player in Cincinnati's chili scene, offering its own distinct take on the city's famous flavors. It provides a direct comparison to Skyline and is beloved by many locals. Yelp reviewers praise it as "A classic Cincinnati coney" and a "perfect quick bite." It's an essential part of the Cincinnati chili experience, easily enjoyed on a budget.

  • Price: ~$3-$4 per coney

  • Location: Multiple locations in Cincinnati (e.g., 100 E 4th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202)

3. Side of Goetta from Price Hill Chili

  • Restaurant: Price Hill Chili

  • Description: A crispy, pan-fried side order of Goetta, a traditional German-American breakfast sausage made with ground meat (pork/beef) and oats, unique to Cincinnati.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Price Hill Chili is a long-standing, family-owned diner that's been serving up classic Cincinnati comfort food for generations. Goetta is a staple of Cincinnati breakfast tables, and this diner does it right. Local guides and Yelp reviewers praise its "crispy and savory" texture, calling it a "Cincinnati must-try" and a "unique local flavor." It's an incredibly authentic and affordable taste of the city's German heritage.

  • Price: ~$4-$6 (for a side order)

  • Location: 4920 Glenway Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45238

4. Al Pastor Taco from Mazunte Taqueria

  • Restaurant: Mazunte Taqueria

  • Description: An authentic street-style taco featuring marinated al pastor pork, cooked on a vertical spit, and served on a warm corn tortilla with fresh toppings.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Mazunte Taqueria is a highly-rated local Mexican restaurant in Cincinnati, celebrated for its authentic Oaxacan-inspired flavors and vibrant atmosphere. Yelp reviewers consistently praise them for "authentic Mexican street food" and highlight their "flavorful and fresh" tacos. Ordering one or two tacos makes for a perfect, affordable, and incredibly satisfying meal that transports you straight to Mexico.

  • Price: ~$3-$4 per taco

  • Location: 6116 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45227

5. A Single Donut from Holtman's Donut Shop

  • Restaurant: Holtman's Donut Shop

  • Description: A handcrafted gourmet donut, available in a wide array of classic and unique flavors, known for its fresh taste and perfectly fluffy texture.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Holtman's Donut Shop is a beloved local institution in Cincinnati, a family-owned business that has been serving up fresh, delicious donuts for generations. Yelp reviewers consistently crown them as having the "Best donuts in Cincinnati!" and praise their "creative flavors" and "amazing texture." It's an essential, affordable treat that captures the comforting essence of a classic neighborhood bakery with a gourmet twist.

  • Price: ~$3-$4 per donut

  • Location: Multiple locations in Cincinnati (e.g., 1332C Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202)

6. Drip Coffee from Deeper Roots Coffee

  • Restaurant: Deeper Roots Coffee

  • Description: A meticulously brewed cup of high-quality, ethically sourced drip coffee, prepared with precision and care in a welcoming cafe setting.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Deeper Roots Coffee is a highly respected local specialty coffee roaster and cafe in Cincinnati, known for its commitment to exceptional beans and expertly crafted beverages. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "excellent coffee" and "great atmosphere," often calling them the "best quality brew." It's the perfect spot for an affordable and top-notch caffeine fix that showcases Cincinnati's thriving specialty coffee scene.

  • Price: ~$3.50-$4.50

  • Location: Multiple locations in Cincinnati (e.g., 1813 Central Pkwy, Cincinnati, OH 45214)

7. Falafel Sandwich from Darou Salam (African/Halal)

  • Restaurant: Darou Salam (African/Halal)

  • Description: Crispy, fried chickpea falafel patties, fresh vegetables, and savory sauces, all wrapped in warm pita bread.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Darou Salam is a unique local gem in Cincinnati, offering authentic African and Halal cuisine with a focus on fresh, flavorful ingredients. Yelp reviewers consistently praise their "delicious, fresh falafel" and highlight the "authentic African flavors." It's a reliable, satisfying, and incredibly affordable choice for a quick, flavorful meal that stands out from typical Mediterranean options.

  • Price: ~$8-$9

  • Location: 4163 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45223

8. Slice of Pizza from Adriatico's New York Style Pizza

  • Restaurant: Adriatico's New York Style Pizza

  • Description: A large, classic New York-style pizza slice with a perfectly thin, crispy crust, topped with savory tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Adriatico's is a very popular local pizza spot in Cincinnati, especially beloved by students at the University of Cincinnati, known for its generous New York-style slices. Yelp reviewers consistently praise its "huge slices" and "great crust," calling it "perfect college pizza." It's a reliable, satisfying, and very affordable choice for a quick and authentic pizza fix.

  • Price: ~$4-$5 per slice

  • Location: 113 W McMillan St, Cincinnati, OH 45219

9. Gourmet Hot Dog (Basic) from Senate Pub

  • Restaurant: Senate Pub

  • Description: A high-quality hot dog, served on a bun, with classic toppings (check for specific basic options under $10).

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Senate Pub (often referred to just as Senate) is a popular local spot in Over-the-Rhine, renowned for its gourmet hot dogs and poutine, often served in a lively, pub-like atmosphere. While their more elaborate creations can be pricier, a basic hot dog with standard toppings should fit within the budget. Yelp reviewers praise their "creative hot dogs" and "delicious combinations," calling it a "fun and lively atmosphere" for a unique hot dog experience.

  • Price: ~$7-$9 (for a basic dog)

  • Location: 1413 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202

10. Single Scoop Ice Cream from Graeter's Ice Cream

  • Restaurant: Graeter's Ice Cream

  • Description: A single scoop of their famous French Pot-process ice cream, known for its dense, rich texture and signature chocolate chips.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Graeter's Ice Cream is an iconic Cincinnati institution, a family-owned business since 1870 that has perfected its unique French Pot freezing process. While it has expanded regionally, its roots and heart are firmly in Cincinnati. Yelp reviewers consistently declare it the "Best ice cream in the world!" and rave about its "rich, creamy, amazing chocolate chunks." A single scoop is the perfect, refreshing, and affordable treat to savor a true taste of Cincinnati's sweet history.

  • Price: ~$5-$6

  • Location: Multiple locations in Cincinnati (e.g., 1401 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202)

Cincinnati's dynamic food scene proves that incredible flavors don't have to come with a hefty price tag, especially when you explore its amazing local establishments. From iconic Cincinnati Chili and unique Goetta to authentic tacos and beloved homemade donuts, these ten dishes under $10 offer a fantastic way to explore the city's diverse and locally-driven culinary landscape. So, whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, make sure to savor these delicious and affordable bites that showcase Cincinnati's unique charm!

Price Comparison Table

Dish Restaurant Price (Approx.) Location
Chili 3-Way Skyline Chili $6-$8 Multiple locations in Cincinnati
Cheese Coney Gold Star Chili $3-$4 per Multiple locations in Cincinnati
Side of Goetta Price Hill Chili $4-$6 4920 Glenway Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45238
Al Pastor Taco Mazunte Taqueria $3-$4 per 6116 Madison Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45227
Single Donut Holtman's Donut Shop $3-$4 per Multiple locations in Cincinnati
Drip Coffee Deeper Roots Coffee $3.50-$4.50 Multiple locations in Cincinnati
Falafel Sandwich Darou Salam $8-$9 4163 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45223
Slice of Pizza Adriatico's New York Style Pizza $4-$5 per 113 W McMillan St, Cincinnati, OH 45219
Gourmet Hot Dog (Basic) Senate Pub $7-$9 1413 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Single Scoop Ice Cream Graeter's Ice Cream $5-$6 Multiple locations in Cincinnati