Looking to hit up the freshest new spots in Downtown Cincinnati? From a chicken shop to a massive Ferris wheel, read on for a rundown of the newest spots to land downtown.
Galla Park
175 Joe Nuxhall Way
Galla Park is a bar and traditional American spot. While it's a traditional restaurant during the week, it transforms into a nightclub on weekend nights, pushing an EDM lineup.
On the menu, look for soup, salad, sandwiches and upscale entrees. Diners can choose the diver scallops with shoulder bacon, Brussels sprouts, smoke paprika and citrus emulsion, or opt for a land option like the filet mignon or white wine linguine with spinach, tomato and mushrooms. Finish off the meal with some crustless apple pie. (Check out the full menu here.)
With a three-star Yelp rating out three reviews, Galla Park is still finding its way, but it's early days.
Yelper Cara D., who reviewed Galla Park on Nov. 11, wrote, "The dancing floor is tiny. The lights are very limited as well, so there isn't much of a light show. I really appreciate that they are trying to bring a more EDM scene to Cincy since there is none. So as long as they keep doing that, I am here to support [them]."
Amanda H. noted, "We went for lunch and it was delicious. The inside was really pretty and we got served right away."
Galla Park is open from 11 a.m.–2 a.m. on Tuesday-Sunday. (It's closed on Monday.)
Money Chicken
300 E. Seventh St.
Money Chicken is a chicken shop. The concept for Money Chicken, according to its website, was created by co-founders, Daniel Souder and Joanna Kirkendall, and chef Evan Hartman. They selected the name to casually explain the restaurant's staple, which is "really good chicken."
It serves up various fried chicken options, including chicken sandwiches, chicken wings and tenders. Sides include fries and cabbage slaw. There are also salads, which you can add chicken to.
Money Chicken, which currently holds 3.5 stars out of 23 reviews on Yelp, is off to a solid start.
Yelper Tyler M., who reviewed Money Chicken on Nov. 7, wrote, "Money Chicken was definitely an unexpected surprise. The chicken sandwich was, well, money. The sweet and spicy kick that this sandwich delivers is truly remarkable. The chicken was fried perfectly, rendering tender and juicy chicken with a perfectly seasoned exterior. This is definitely a unique seasoning, and I can see myself craving this in the future."
Jason M. noted, "Fast [and] casual delicious chicken in a clean, modern environment. Moist, well-seasoned chicken is the star here with a spartan menu of just a couple of choices of sandwiches or tenders, [plus] fries and coleslaw."
Money Chicken is open from 11 a.m.–8 p.m. on Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. on Friday, and 10:45 a.m.–9 p.m. on Saturday. (It's closed on Sunday.)
Skystar
55 E. Freedom Way
Skystar is a giant Ferris wheel that's set up shop in Cincinnati until June 16.
Touting itself as America's largest portable observation wheel, Skystar gives riders a stunning view of downtown at day or night from nearly 15 stories high. It is equipped with 36 climate-controlled gondolas that can hold up to six people each. For admission, you get a few go-arounds and have the option to purchase photos after the ride.
Skystar's current rating of 3.5 stars out of 10 reviews on Yelp indicates that locals are still warming up to the wheel's presence.
Yelper Rebecca M., who reviewed Skystar on Nov. 11, wrote, "I think if you really want to enjoy this with your family, it's worth the price. The look on my toddler's face as we walked up to the wheel was priceless. She absolutely loved the ride and, as parents, we loved the family moment. Even my teenager enjoyed the views."
Yelper Tammi C. wrote, "What pretty night sky views. The line isn't very long this time of year. The cabins are nice and warm. We went around several times. The highest elevation we reached was 520 feet and I felt totally safe."
Skystar is open from 4–11 p.m. on Monday-Thursday, 4 p.m.–midnight on Friday, 10 a.m.–midnight on Saturday, and 10 a.m.–11 p.m. on Sunday.
