I can't wait to go back! The meal was creative, delicious, fun and the wine pairings were great! Anyone who appreciates great food should check it out! My husband is a good cook, travels a bit for work and eats great meals in many cities. During the meal he said, "Wow!...who ARE these guys? This is amazing!" It's not cheap but its worth it!
(5)
Chrissy B.
We were so excited to try this restaurant based on the reviews and that they source a lot of things locally. We ordered the 4 course meals. The dishes were delicious, however the portions are tiny. Our gazpacho course was maybe 4 tablespoons of soup. The presentation was beautiful and the server was informative. However, We left hungry and went to the grocery store to buy more to snack on. Not fun after spending $125 for our meal. We will not return when there are other restaurants with unique dishes that actually fill you up.
Nuvo at Greenup breaks all the traditional rules and will wow you as a fine diner! Their style is entirely their own. You will be listening to the Chef expertly describe your meal throughout all the courses. The portions are fairly big for a tasting menu and you will certainly be full after the 3 hour dining experience. The "new" style will delight your senses and force you to try food combinations that you never had before. I would certainly go back to see what the Chef will cook up next and we made another reservation for next month before even leaving!
(5)
Brian M.
This is honestly the best restaurant I've been to in the Cincinnati area. The concept is unique. Before you arrive, you are asked to provide any food allergies or aversions. The hostess will literally call you up a few days prior to your reservation to clarify those if they're not provided in the comment section of your reservation. When you arrive, you order either a 3 course meal or an 8 course meal. The overall amount of food is supposed to be the same between the two. However, do yourself a favor and order the 8 course meal. What happens next is pure culinary bliss. You're brought out the mystery courses one by one, with a description of each and how it was prepared. I can honestly say that I've never had a bad course there. The menu changes roughly every month, so you can literally have 12 completely unique dining experiences every year. The coffee is also amazing. It's made at your table in front of you using siphon technology. Just like the food, your waiter/waitress walks you through the process of what's being done at the various steps and why it's superior to more traditional ways to brew coffee. Just don't ask for Sweet and Low. The one (and only) downside of Nuvo is that they don't serve artificial sweetener. They only want to use "natural" ingredients. So, if you're like me and consume enough Sweet and Low to artificially preserve your corpse for decades to come, bring some in from the outside like contraband. Also, don't make the mistake of trying to touch the siphon in the middle of the brewing process. I tried that one and literally had the waitress run over to slap it down. In her defense, the siphon would have apparently exploded had I moved it an inch more... Whether your looking to impress someone on a date or just enjoy a fantastic meal, this place cannot be beat.
(5)
Marie M.
I honestly feel like 5 stars is not enough. We've been to most of the nicer restaurants in Cincinnati and I can honestly say Nuvo at Greenup absolutely blew them all away. As soon as we walked in we were greeted by the hostess with welcome drinks - a delicious apertif that included champagne, though I don't remember the other ingredients. My husband and I opted for the eight course menu with wine pairings. The food was amazing and the portions were just right. We left full but not stuffed. Also, the wine pourings were VERY generous - the hostess had told us that each wine would be about 2 sips - well I would say more like 2 gigantic gulps, so it was definitely worth the price. As this is a chef's choice menu, you do need to be somewhat adventurous when choosing this restaurants. HOWEVER, and this is a big one, they do accommodate dietary restrictions. I am a vegan, and I was afraid we wouldn't ever be able to try Nuvo, but the chef said it was no problem as long as I called at least 24 hours prior to our reservation. I can tell this was not his first time preparing a vegan meal as everything was not only incredible, but also incredibly creative and inventive including ravioli with a vegetable ricotta, multiple courses that included edible foraged flowers and mushrooms, and several courses of dessert including a vegan panna cotto, a deconstructed s'more with a toasted vegan marshmallow, and even a nut milk ice cream. Tips: - Make an early reservation as you'll get your choice of table - Plan to be there a very long time - from walking in to paying the check, we were there just over three hours - When I told them I was a vegan, they didn't ask about honey - which I'm fine with, but I know many vegans are not. If you avoid honey, make sure you mention that up front, because it was in at least two of the courses. -You MUST get the coffee!
(5)
Jenn C.
I chose Nuvo after reading all of the wonderful reviews, namely on Yelp, but sadly, I was led astray. First, I want to give credit where credit is due. The two chefs were great! They were friendly and engaging. They were very informative and they have a great concept. The presentation was lovely as well - each dish displayed beautifully. Very innovative. The lack of stars is due to the food. Granted, as the menu varies, it is quite possible that we just got unlucky, but in my opinion, the chefs are trying to do too much in each and every dish. Some flavors just don't go together or even if they do, there is no need to overwhelm every dish with every flavor known to man. I don't recall every single dish we had, but one that stood out was the vanilla mashed potatoes topped with bone marrow. The idea of bone marrow with mashed potatoes sounds great! A touch of vanilla? Why not? This dish, however, was so heavily laden will vanilla, it tasted like eating a vanilla tootsie roll. With marrow. Also, with about 2 tablespoons of potatoes and 1 tablespoon of marrow, it was a greasy mess. The langoustine head soup. Oh good god. Care to sprinkle some fresh lemon zest in there to combat the fishyness? Or maybe a splash of vinegar. Either way, it was like accidentally falling into a stagnant pond. It was much too strong for my taste. Something else that bothered me was every single dish had flowers or plants on top. Not really incorporated. Just sprinkled on top. Some dishes had flowers. Some had leaves. Some had herbs, roots and all. The amount of "garnish" (and i use this loosely as i believe they are meant to be an integral part of the dish), was not proportional to the actual dish. How is it possible for me to shove 3.7 plants in my mouth per bite of food when there is only approx 1 oz of main ingredient on the plate? Sodium. They LOVE their spices and salt is no exception. Especially when everything is cooked down to give you the "full flavor." Expect to drink lots of water for the next 48-72 hours. The concept is great. The execution can certainly be improved upon. If you live in the Tri-State area and have never experienced a restaurant like this and you are adventurous, certainly something to try (for approx $170 per person). If you have a more refined palate and have tasted the best the world has to offer, not worth the time. For the price, I would have expected a more exquisite affair.
(2)
Shari S.
Great meal! Went for my bday dinner. This is a unique restaurant. We loved it. Best for foodies or people interested in learning more about food. We got the 8 course meal and wine pairing. Fantastic. If you aren't comfortable reading the menu before you go, this place is not for you. I loved knowing what wasn't coming next and loved that I ate new things. The chef is unbelievably creative which we loved. Go here and enjoy the experience. The 8 course meal ran about $140 pp with wine flight included but so worth it. They have 4 course meal choice if the 8 course is not for you.
(5)
Sean B.
I've had a lot of great dining experiences, but what I found at Nuvo this weekend wasn't just dining out. No it was much more than that. It was as if we walked into our own private dining room to be served by chef's that clearly love what they are doing. I personally didn't know what we would find at Nuvo. I knew the reviews were great and the accolades were there too. So I was expecting a great dinner. It turned out to be a 3 hour, 8 course meal perfectly paired with a selection of wines, champagne, sake, beer, and bourbon. From the pictures I've posted you will see the care, thought, and skill that went into each course. All of the courses were presented by either the chef and owner Mark Bodenstein or the sous chef along with the drink pairing. The thought behind each course was explained along with why the drink choice made sense. We couldn't have been happier with our night at Nuvo and while it was expensive it was worth the price in every way. A foodie will fall in love with this restaurant.
(5)
Devin V.
Nuvo is most definitely the most impressive restaurant I've ever been to, Cincinnati or otherwise. For any adventurous eater around - a must go. We did the 8 course menu, with wine pairings, which actually ends up being 10+ courses with a few palate cleansers as well. I can't do these dishes justice with my descriptions but just to give an idea: We started with cauliflower puree & beluga caviar, some kind of cheese bread, then a shrimp cocktail served over liquid nitrogen, an interactive leek soup with truffle butter, carrot puree ravioli that burst in your mouth (amazing!), a hibiscus gel palate cleanser with what they called snow (amazing again), the forest floor- a collection of perfectly seasoned mushrooms, flowers and moss, wagu beef with golden carrots, another palate cleanser of tomatillo juice and rosehip powder, cheese gelato with honeycomb and huckleberries, liquid nitrogen 'crackerjack' and a play on chocolate cake (which we had to skip because dinner took much longer than expected) Everything was beautifully presented- the best I've seen in Cincinnati, creatively prepared- I've never seen such creativity in food in Cincinnati EVER. I was impressed with everything. Service was great- very informative and helpful. The wine pairings ranged from a rose to chardonnay, champagne, and many varietals in between I can't remember. I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed this experience. The ONLY negative was when the bill came- our courses came to $120/person for the food coursing plus additional for the drink pairings - so the bill was over $400 with tip. A bit of a shock, but for our anniversary it was totally worth it. Innovative, creative, unique & amazing. LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! Can't wait to go back for my birthday!
(5)
Michelle R.
I loved every bit of my experience at Nuvo. I was invited to do the 8 course meal by my boyfriend and his family. Everything. EVERYTHING. Was amazing. The staff is incredibly polite and friendly. Their descriptions for the courses are just pretty much the best things ever. I think we spent 3 hours eating everything. Every dish was amazing--the flavors were unique, but cohesive. The chef is really very outstanding. I took pictures of half the dishes (AND the coffee demonstration) and they are all beautiful and equally tasty. It's quite possibly the best meal I've had all year. Definitely the most memorable.
(5)
Tara S.
My husband and I had our anniversary dinner at Nuvo. We had the 8 course tasting without a wine pairing. We ordered a bottle to have with the meal. The best course, in my opinion, was a potato/leek soup with a truffle butter sphere included. The flavors were perfect and the dish was interactive (poured the hot soup over the truffle butter sphere to melt it at the table). The forest floor was also a wonderful course. The ambiance was lovely. A historic building and quite intimate. Very impressed with the decor. Being placed at a table right adjacent to the kitchen door was a tad irritating, but that is the way it goes. It is a small restaurant in an old house all space is utilized. Sadly, I do have a criticism. My husband has a nut allergy and we made sure they knew that. He ended up having an allergic reaction to something before we got to the dessert course, and we had to leave. We could not pinpoint what caused it since we explained about the nut issue prior to dining (commented when making reservation, was addressed during reservation confirmation, and with server at the restaurant). I cannot blame Nuvo since he might be allergic to something else other than nuts and we just did not know it. It is just kind of jarring to pay over $150 for a meal and have had an allergic reaction to something you were served. I suppose it is important to keep in mind that the point of Nuvo is the diverse ingredients, and being creative. Sometimes when dining with a person with known food allergies, creative food is not always the best choice. Without the allergic reaction - would have been a pleasing and unique experience. Moral of the story - beware those with food allergies.
(3)
Justin H.
Very good prix fix meal. Had it with the wine pairing and really enjoyed it. Creative food the area, like a cooking show.
(5)
Mike M.
Hidden Gem!!! What a great find. We are always looking for new places to try in the Cincinnati area. This one was great. Very small with only 7-10 tables. It was interesting from the moment we walked in. No Maitre D. No server. Everything was done by the chefs themselves. This means you are getting the description of the food straight from the source. The overall experience was really like being at your friends house where they are cooking you a fabulous dinner. Our primary chef, Mark, turned out to be the founder and owner. The restaurant is a chef tasting menu only. We had the 8 course menu (which, with all the snacks and free treats thrown in was really like 11). They specialize in all wild ingredients and the presentations were simply gorgeous. I wish we had taken pictures to show them off. The taste was even better. Every course was spot on and the drink pairings matched nicely (though we are not fans of sherry and sake which were two of the pairings we could easily tell they were good matches if you like them). The finale of the meal matched the rest with scrambled egg ice cream (yes real scrambled eggs!!!!) with black truffle and chocolate toppings. The coffee is a must enjoy ending both for the fabulous taste and the VERY cool presentation (think chemistry class and bunson burner). We will definitely be back.
(5)
John B.
Best meal I had of 2013. I waited until the new year before I made the claim, but yup, the dinner I had here with a fellow Yelp friend (shout out to Tim H.), took the prize. From course one the food was the kind that I actually slow down and enjoy every morsel. The presentation and flavor of each plate really made the night special and memorable. Each of us brought a bottle (I don't know if it is still BYO) and recommend that you at least have one glass of wine that can be paired with your meal. (Ask for a recommendation from Marie). As Beth D. aptly mentioned, dining at NuVo is an experience that I hope you get a chance to enjoy. The menu changes frequently as the master chef Mr Bodenstein flexes his culinary muscles and creates unique and sometimes off the wall dishes. I look forward to warmer weather as they might have the makings for an intimate back patio area.
(5)
Alex H.
Nuvo is one of the most innovative and creative dinning experiences I have ever encountered. The food was amazing and the service was top notch. If you have not been to this restaurant then you are missing out!!!
(5)
J O.
We had an amazing experience at NUVO from the moment we stepped in the door until we closed the place down. We love finding places like this and it is definitely one of the best in Cinncinati. I love showing up and not having to choose what to eat and when each dish comes it is a fun surprise. The food was so delicious and unique. We have both dined all over the world and there were things that we had never tried before which is a definite plus in my book. Ben the sous chef made the experience delightful. We had so much fun chatting with him and hearing his description of each dish. The wine pairing was very generous is a must. The playlist was great and also added to the experience. We are from Columbus/Scottsdale and will make a trip back with friends just to experience NUVO again.
(5)
John S.
Amazing. Great food, portions, service and flavors. Definitely a great time. Do not be in a rush, this is a place to take your time at and enjoy. Bon appetite.
(5)
Sharon Y.
I can't tell you how much I love this restaurant. We've been 3 times now and it is an absolute delight and treat. Half of the fun is not knowing what's coming and the other half is the flavor explosion combined with the beautiful and unique presentation. The menu is currently 8 courses for $65/person, but a couple of items were served to us before we started our 8 courses. It's amazing. If I thought I could have gotten away with it, I probably would've licked my plate after each course. I can't do coffee in the evening, but if you can, you should do it here. We watched the siphon process at another table and it was something to behold. In this area, it just doesn't get any more creative when it comes to food. As a Covingtonian, I love that this gem is in my neck of the woods and, on the rare occasion that my husband and I can go on a date, this will remain at the top of our list.
(5)
Ann R.
Had the most innovative meal outside of NYC right here in Cincinnati. Hubby and I had the 8 course tasting menu with pairings which included a stout with one course. (There is no point in making any other choice, the 3 course menu will leave you wishing you were having what everyone around you was having.) Which is really more like 12 courses with the triple amuse bouche, gifts from the kitchen, and palate cleanser. We didn't leave hungry but weren't overly full either. it is one menu so if you have dietary considerations TELL THEM AHEAD and they will accommodate your needs. They tell you this but apparently the people at the next table didn't pay attention.
(5)
John A.
I know this review won't match what others have said. Here's why. I have been to other similar "tasting" concepts in San Francisco and Chicago. At neither of them did I leave hungry. The food at Nuvo was inventive, entertaining, and intriguing. We enjoyed nearly all of the courses. Some more than others, but definitely an adventure. For the price, regardless, I shouldn't leave hungry. I literally went home and ate again. I'm sorely disappointed that I can't write a positive review because of that.
(2)
Bea D.
I can't be happier to have Bodenstein back in Covington. I have always been a big fan. It is no surprise that I enjoyed NuVo as much as I did. I love the surprise of 6 small dishes for a single price. Be prepared to dine when visiting NuVo. It is a dining EXPERIENCE. That means you should not be in a hurry to be anywhere and take time to enjoy the company of your fellow diners. The ambience is upscale, simple, and elegant. The glassware, cutlery, and dishes complement the modern, simple attitude of the decor. The food is well thought out and absolutely delicious. I am especially impressed with the vegetables. Last but not least, they are wonderful wine advisors. I encourage you to pay NuVo a visit. It is truly an EXPERIENCE.
One of the best meals we've had in Cincinnati/NKy. Chef Mark and our server, Logan, made a routine Wednesday night magical. Interior: 5- classy and intimate Service: 10!!!! - friendly informative Food: 4s and 5s. It's prix fixe (great for adventurous foodies!) but not all courses are going to be equally loved. All were beautiful and well-intentioned. But when it starts with brut and ends with a smoking (literally-smoke wafting!) cigar box full of truffles and tiny meringues, you know you have had a unique experience. Wine pairings- TEN. Don't skimp! This is event dining and pairings were amazing. We were cared for, educated and well-fed. Definitely will return! K2 PS- We were given a handwritten notecard from our server with all the wines written down and thanking us!
(5)
Janie H.
Absolutely incredible. Went for our 10-year anniversary and could not have made a better choice. Inventive, creative, and fresh. Not for the boring american pallet but if you're up for good food that's not typical, this is your place! We did the wine pairing and that was really the icing on the cake. So not what you're thinking (cabernet for this, malbec for that, reisling for dessert). The chefs could not have been more helpful and their passion for food and cooking makes the entire experience. Such a fun time and an exciting food adventure. I HIGHLY recommend!!!!
(5)
Charles K.
We had a party of six and I will sum up my review to say our experience was very good and we would easily recommend this restaurant to others. High points: - Communication for reservation beforehand was professional and friendly - Mark, the chef, asked and accommodated allergies and tastes - The space, like the previous establishment in the space, feels warm and like a home - Our server was attentive and friendly - Marie, one of the owners, was a joy to have around the table and introduced the wine pairings that matched well with the meals. - The experience, at the price, seemed very reasonable - There were several high points in the food - particularly the pork and then the smoking chocolate dessert box (amazing) Points to consider: - We did the 9 course option - and this was spread over 3.5 hours - so, make sure the group you are with are good friends! We had a blast. This isn't a knock on the restaurant, just a comment to think about. - Of the 9 courses, we were thrilled with about 5 and ok with the rest. They definitely take some risks and, while some may not be spot-on, you can appreciate it. - While they were attentive prior to our arrival with dietary restrictions, we had several pieces that had to be returned because the item was on the plate. Overall, we were very happy with the experience and, it was just that, an experience. Marie and Mark have a good thing going and we'll look forward to future culinary creations out of their kitchen.
(4)
Emma S.
Wow, this was an absolutely AWFUL experience. I do not know where to start - the cold courses, hair in food, dirty silverware, unapologetic waitress, or accusatory chef. I felt like we were on punkd. Cincinnati has amazing restaurants - Boca, Orchids, Nicolas, Salazar (to name a few). They blow Nuvo out of the water (and then some). I can't convey how mediocre to bad this restaurant was. I have been to restaurants all over the world / this was so bad., how the chef handled our complaints was appalling. Do not get here. Go to any of the awesome restaurants around Nuvo. I am beyond disappointed. So awful.
(1)
Paul D.
A real dining experience. My wife and I have been to Nuvo a couple of times. The meals are not only delicious but entertaining becuase you never know what you are going to get!! One of our "palate cleansers" was shaved ice, ginger, other flavors and pop rocks!! If you want to order a steak and potatoes - don't come to Nuvo. If you have no sense of food adventure - don't come to Nuvo. If you want to be entertained by the food presentation, eat delicious out of the ordinary dishes, and have one of the best dining experiences in Cincinnati then go to Nuvo.
(5)
Sheena D.
Great date spot! I came here (with my now boyfriend) on our first date. It was a great experience and I'm surprised it took me this long to write a review. Luckily neither of us were picky eaters because it is a pre fixe menu. The great part is there is not decisions to be made which makes for a nice intimate dinner, not to mention there are probably less than 10 tables there. The only decision is your drink and I would highly recommend going with the wine pairing. Its my understanding that the food is all or mostly local, which adds an even more uniqueness to this place. The food was great! A lot of it were things that I would typically never order off a menu, but once I started eating, it was all delicious! We even had a special italian/shaved ice type desert with pop rocks in it! Sounds crazy, but the quality and uniqueness of this dishes gives this place 5 stars in my book! Lastly, this place is quite hidden. Look for the address on the building because there are no signage that stand out to tell you its a restaraunt and not just a nice 19th century house.
(5)
Steven K.
Food is fabulous, better than advertised. Didn't have a reservation but we were politely escorted to the upstairs bar where Alexis was absolutely wonderful. Very knowledgable and informative about the food and drinks offered and was pretty cute too. Will definitely make it a point to come back to experience chef Mark's excellent culinary skills again soon!!
(5)
Tara S.
We had a really great experience here. There were 4 of us, and we all opted for the 6-course dinner with wine pairings. The 6 courses were explained to us by our great server in advance, but it was a bit strange that she couldn't tell us about the wine pairings because they didn't really know what wines we would be getting (it depends on what's open from the day before, what is available, etc). That felt a little strange, like saying "you're going to end up with whatever we need to get rid of", HOWEVER, that being said, the wine choices were excellent and we enjoyed them thoroughly. Courses were (and I am going to be very simple in my descriptions because I cannot possibly do these justice): Spring pea soup- Delicious. No other way around it. Paired with a crisp white wine. Loved it, could have eaten giant bowlful. Gnocchi with carrot butter- Where has carrot butter been all my life? I don't know how this magical sauce is made, but it is heaven. I loved the texture of the gnocchi. Again, I could have eaten an entire plateful of this. Seabass with tomato sauce and couscous- Great, the fish was perfectly prepared. Duck- The duck was delicous, but the skin was tough. Once I got through/under it, the meat itself was moist and tender. Green salad on a housemade cheese sauce/spread- Oh yeah. Cheese is involved, I'm in, and this was very good. Dessert- Housemade buttermilk yogurt with a smoked raspberry and habanero sauce- Oh My Goodness. Loved, loved, loved. Complaint was how tiny the portion was (about 2 spoonfuls). The rest of dessert was a tray of chocolates and meringues, these did not stand out to me. Paired with an amazing champagne. All in all, here is what I thought: nothing was disapointing, we enjoyed everything and everyone cleaned every plate. The gnocchi and the soup were probably my favorite courses. My husband would have liked to have seen something like a beef or pork dish offered (he is just "meh" on seafood and duck, but STILL enjoyed them!). The dessert was lacking, the tray of chocolates did not do much for any of us. The wine pairings were perfect, despite the feeling that they were just winging it, and our server had very thorough knowledge of each one, so clearly she knows what she's talking about. The wine pours were generous, I sometimes struggled to finish the previous one before the next course, but I would NEVER complain about that!! All in all, I look forward to returning because it's my understand that the menu changes very frequently, and we truly did have such a great meal.
(4)
Peg M.
Dinner at Nuvo was an entirely satisfying full evening experience. With a combination of gracious service, delicious and innovative seasonal food artfully prepared and well-paired beverages, Nuvo is unlike any other restaurant in the region. Because your reservation assures your table for the evening, feel free to begin with a leisurely cocktail and snack in the upstairs bar, and then prepare to be surprised and delighted over the next few hours.
(5)
Joey Z.
NuVo is an experience like nothing else in Cincinnati Tristate area. I consider myself a bit of a foodie in that I am uneasy if I haven't tried something new to the Cincinnati food scene and restaurants take priority whenever I travel. Given I don't get out much during colder seasons, it says a lot that I have been to NuVo six times since they opened in the Fall. This may seem like a lot; however, the frequent changes to the menu are based on what Chef Bodenstein believes to be the freshest ingredients available at that time and it is hard to not want to go back to see what creations he has for the evening. His passion for food science is evident the second you receive your first dish... Was honestly a jaw dropping experience for myself. I am normally a quick eater, but as someone mentioned in previous review, the dishes truly are something that you don't want to go away.. until you realize there is another course :) It is a pre fixe menu, which I prefer, not being a picky eater; however, it would be something to consider for those that are more on the picky side. I do understand that they have vegetarian alternatives for those that may have concern. I have had a variety of dishes over my visits to NuVo, which makes it hard to point out favorites; however, I will say that the Forest Floor(mushrooms & greens), Winter Carrots, Snow (cold dish made with pop rocks.. yes, pop rocks), and beef dishes(have been several) stand out in my head. Wine pairing is optional, but they also have a nice wine list if you simply choose to pick a bottle.. or four ;) Marie is very knowledgeable with the wines and was very generous at offering her thoughts and recommendation for bottle when I did opt out of the pairing. If you are a coffee fan, you MUST order the coffee to close your evening. Not a big coffee drinker, but hard to pass it up here! If you want an incredible meal consisting of food turned into art (or impress a date with one;), then NuVo should be on the top of your list. Even better, it is more cost effective than hitting the larger name restaurants in the city. Six courses (with added intermezzos and amuse bouche) runs $45, which I was extremely surprised by after being in similar restaurants in other cities. This is where I was confused with earlier mention of Alinea in Chicago, where I have also been and very much enjoyed. While I have no problem saying the food science approach is similar, Alinea is on an entirely different scale as it will run five times (easily) the cost of NuVo. I would definitely be a repeat diner at NuVo if it were in a different city, but I am VERY happy to say that we have it here in Covington/Cincinnati! It is the place I will continue to take food connoisseurs when they come to visit!
(5)
Anna W.
While I can appreciate all other reviewers' opinions about their experiences at Nuvo, I have to give mine in which I title it "The Emperor's New Clothes." My husband and I came based on all of the outstanding reviews online. Even though there is no menu - you order the number of courses and you get whatever Chef is preparing for that evening. We started off the evening at 7:45 with me telling my husband "just roll with it - it'll be fun." I ended up walking out mid-"meal" with the word meal in quotes, because I could not handle my starvation any longer. I ordered the 3 courses and my husband ordered 8 absurdly thinking we could share some. Our first course came out in an overly large bowl with a spec of creamy-based soup and a biscuit the size of a quarter to the side. There was about 4 tablespoons of soup. Because my husband ordered more courses, I sat there whilst he continued to be served his extra courses, which the concept here is the poor patron is kept waiting for 20-25 minute intervals. By 9:00, I had only been served my scant soup portion, and my husband had 3 courses that would not have fed a baby bird. It was at this point that (with my husband's agreement) I left him there to finish and went next door to Blinkers for a real meal, with actual food coming out of the kitchen, and my stomach thanking me. Our meal cost $130 at Nuvo. To me, this is a case of the Emperor walking around thinking he is wearing the finest silk, but in reality he is naked but no one wants to say anything. Was the food delicious? Yes-what I tasted of it - it sure was. My advice is if you are considering coming here, leave your small wallet at home and bring your larger one, bring all of your patience and perhaps a good book, and do not bring your appetite. Because this whole experience takes place over a 2 1/2 hour time period. They cannot possibly turn a table, so 8 tables per night is about all that is handled here, and I cannot imagine there is much repeat business and do not see this concept really taking hold long term in Covington, Ky. Perhaps in LA or New York, but not here. The chef has his own concept of when and how much you will eat, and has nothing to do with what you want or expect. And if you are reading this review thinking I am a hillbilly and do not know really good food - I have eaten at 5 star restaurants in the US and abroad, and I do know good food. I was sorely disappointed at this experience and the time kept waiting between courses. The patron sitting next to us said they think this is so that your brain gets the signal that you've eaten which takes about 20 minutes. Regardless, had I known all of this ahead of time and was prepared for what was to happen, I would not have been so thrown off kilter about it all. I give 2 stars only because the food was delicious.
(2)
Tim M.
Wow! Just had a fantastic dining experience at Nuvo. This place was great. It's one of those narrow block houses, you enter just to the side of the front, and the interior is nicely decorated, warm neutral colors, with nice dinnerware. We were served by Logan, the front of the house manger. We went with the six course prix fixe, with the beverage pairing. You need to be somewhat open minded. You don't choose what to eat, you eat what the chef prepares for you, so you have to trust him. I didn't happen to meet him, but let me tell you, he is very, very trustworthy, gastronomically speaking. I don't have time to go over all six courses, along with little starters and treats over the course of the meal, but the food was the best I've had in the area. Everything is fresh and locally grown or produced, and the menu changes with what's available. Logan introduced nearly every course and the drink pairings, and I was amazed how knowledgeable he was about the unique foods that they served. And they were definitely items you just can't get anywhere else. There was a braised pork shoulder with carrot butter, dandelion greens salad, a radish salad, an amazing dessert of strawberry and buttermilk yogurt, and then little chocolates and meringues in a cigar box with some birch smoke in it. This place is an incredible experience. Don't let my poor descriptive abilities turn you off, this place is worth the trip.
(5)
N L.
Incredible dining experience that is totally unique to Cincinnati. The price point for the 6 course meal is solid considering the variety of foods for tasting. NuVo's focus is on vegetables and I am more of a carnivore. But if chefs could make vegetables taste this good I might change my tune. The house-made tagliatelle was the highlight, with the caramelized chocolate a close second.
(5)
Erin H.
I could not be more proud of Marie and the team behind NuVo. My boyfriend and I just returned from an exquisite 6-course meal (with the addition of fancy cheese puffs, an amuse-bouche or two, and complimentary/celebetory champagne:) NuVo's enterior is warm but chic, while still paying homage to the building's rich history. Every detail was thought out perfectly and precisely. For example: the unique water pitchers and glasses, the real silverware, the simple rose centerpieces or our strikingly beautiful server who recited the chef's creations with ease and answered any questions we had. The chef's selections of seasonal vegetables and twists on American cuisine was refreshing and delicious. Each course was vibrant in its colors and taste. The mix of sweet and savory or spicy was tantalizing and we were eager for each following course. We finished the meal feeling utterly satisfied but not stuffed or uncomfortable. The bill was brought out on a Himalayan pink salt block, which was a neat final touch that I've never seen done anywhere else. Overall-wonderful experience! I can recommend this restaurant wholeheartedly and can not wait to bring my friends and family here in the future! Great date-night idea or for any special occasion. Bravo NuVo!
(5)
Susan L.
It is a pre fix menu (changes weekly and you do not know what the menu is before you go), normally 6 courses for $45. I had a coupon and went with 3 friends so we did not have the full 6 course, but based on what we had $45 would be a great deal for as wonderful as this meal was. The place is very small and only open Wed thru Sunday for dinner (reservations would be a good idea especially as more people find out about it, it has only been open less than a couple of months). It is in a beautiful old house. It was not full tonight, but even full it would still have intimate setting and I do not think it would ever get really loud. The dishes are big enough that you can really appreciate the taste, but small enough you could have 6 courses without feeling stuffed. The food was so creative, all were incredible tasting, and primarily locally sources quality ingredients. All 4 of us finished every course even to the point of trying to figure out how to get to the last of the sauce left on the plates. My favorite dinning experiences recently have been at Ryan Santo's Please pop up dinner's, but even though Ryan's dinners are still my favorite, Nuvo comes so close (and this is very high praise from me). At my table we were deciding how to rate it and we all decided 5 starts, the couple close by us said they fully agreed too. I do not give 5 stars out a lightly , but based on the ambience, the service, and the quality and creativity of the food (but I also do not rate a dinner on the same scale as a fine dinning establishment), Nuvo based on my intiial experience deserves it
(5)
Debra H.
Just had dinner there tonight with our friends who are serious foodies. It was absolutely delicious, interesting, creative... Each dish was a delight. We went for the wine pairings, and they were excellent. The atmosphere is simple and comfortable. The wait staff was attentive, informed but not hovering. The menu changes a bit each night and totally every two weeks. We will return.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Accepts Bitcoin : No Good For : Dinner Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : No Attire : Dressy Ambience : Intimate Noise Level : Quiet Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Lori L.
I can't wait to go back! The meal was creative, delicious, fun and the wine pairings were great! Anyone who appreciates great food should check it out! My husband is a good cook, travels a bit for work and eats great meals in many cities. During the meal he said, "Wow!...who ARE these guys? This is amazing!" It's not cheap but its worth it!
(5)Chrissy B.
We were so excited to try this restaurant based on the reviews and that they source a lot of things locally. We ordered the 4 course meals. The dishes were delicious, however the portions are tiny. Our gazpacho course was maybe 4 tablespoons of soup. The presentation was beautiful and the server was informative. However, We left hungry and went to the grocery store to buy more to snack on. Not fun after spending $125 for our meal. We will not return when there are other restaurants with unique dishes that actually fill you up.
(2)Matt S.
Wow. I had high expectations for Nuvo, and it absolutely delivered! It's certainly the most memorable meal I have ever had. Both the food and the whole experience were fantastic. First of all, Nuvo is definitely a special occasion type of place ($$$$). And, it's not for everyone. The food is unique and experimental, and the prix fixe menu means you have to be adventurous and willing to try things you don't normally pick. That makes it a PERFECT place for people who love food and trying new things. If you and your significant other are both super into good food, you'll love this place. If one of you doesn't quite appreciate unique, artfully crafted cuisine, you should probably skip it. My fiancée and I did the 8 course tasting menu, with drink parings. Definitely don't do less food, and if you like good wine then definitely do drink parings as well. I'll agree with other people: Don't even bother with the smaller course meals (3 or 4). Go all out, or don't go at all. (Side note: they're going to be opening an a la carte menu downstairs, so then there will be a cheaper option). I loved almost everything I had. It was all super unique. I don't remember everything, but some highlights were: Some sort of potato cucumber salad. Scallop! (It was a hot/cold dish. Hot scallop which was fantastic, and a cold scallop dish that I wasn't crazy about). Chicken with an eggplant puree. And a 2.5 minute egg that we got to crack on top of the dish ourselves! "Banana split" desert. Mmmmmm. It's made with a pork fat gelato. What?!? Another desert that had curry gelato. Spicy gelato is super interesting. Not my favorite, but it was so unique and unexpected that I loved it. Dessert course 3 (yes. three dessert courses.) had truffles, mini tarts, something I forget, and mushroom oreos. Again, all super unique. The total dinner was just shy of 3 hours. They don't flip tables, so we were told we could stay as long as we wanted after eating. Very nice atmosphere, friendly service (the Sous Chef was our server). What could make killer food even better? Drink pairings. Banana sake with the scallop dish? Paired great. I'm not normally a Rosé fan, but we had a rosé that worked so well with the dish. A couple reds, a couple whites, a cocktail at the beginning, and a Maderia with dessert. I would have never been able to pick the drinks for this meal, so just let them do it for you! I was very satisfied after all of that. But then before we left, they brought us two pieces of coffee cake packaged up for us to have for breakfast the next day! Of course it was delicious, and just a really nice little extra to end the meal. Oh, and with the coffee cake was a thank you note signed by all of the staff (and it said bring it back for a free bottle of wine next time!). They treat you right. If you love to experience food, not just eat food, this is the place to go. The menu changes frequently, so you'll probably get something different that I did, but I'm sure it'll be the experience of a lifetime. I know I'll certainly be back.
(5)Brian B.
Nuvo at Greenup breaks all the traditional rules and will wow you as a fine diner! Their style is entirely their own. You will be listening to the Chef expertly describe your meal throughout all the courses. The portions are fairly big for a tasting menu and you will certainly be full after the 3 hour dining experience. The "new" style will delight your senses and force you to try food combinations that you never had before. I would certainly go back to see what the Chef will cook up next and we made another reservation for next month before even leaving!
(5)Brian M.
This is honestly the best restaurant I've been to in the Cincinnati area. The concept is unique. Before you arrive, you are asked to provide any food allergies or aversions. The hostess will literally call you up a few days prior to your reservation to clarify those if they're not provided in the comment section of your reservation. When you arrive, you order either a 3 course meal or an 8 course meal. The overall amount of food is supposed to be the same between the two. However, do yourself a favor and order the 8 course meal. What happens next is pure culinary bliss. You're brought out the mystery courses one by one, with a description of each and how it was prepared. I can honestly say that I've never had a bad course there. The menu changes roughly every month, so you can literally have 12 completely unique dining experiences every year. The coffee is also amazing. It's made at your table in front of you using siphon technology. Just like the food, your waiter/waitress walks you through the process of what's being done at the various steps and why it's superior to more traditional ways to brew coffee. Just don't ask for Sweet and Low. The one (and only) downside of Nuvo is that they don't serve artificial sweetener. They only want to use "natural" ingredients. So, if you're like me and consume enough Sweet and Low to artificially preserve your corpse for decades to come, bring some in from the outside like contraband. Also, don't make the mistake of trying to touch the siphon in the middle of the brewing process. I tried that one and literally had the waitress run over to slap it down. In her defense, the siphon would have apparently exploded had I moved it an inch more... Whether your looking to impress someone on a date or just enjoy a fantastic meal, this place cannot be beat.
(5)Marie M.
I honestly feel like 5 stars is not enough. We've been to most of the nicer restaurants in Cincinnati and I can honestly say Nuvo at Greenup absolutely blew them all away. As soon as we walked in we were greeted by the hostess with welcome drinks - a delicious apertif that included champagne, though I don't remember the other ingredients. My husband and I opted for the eight course menu with wine pairings. The food was amazing and the portions were just right. We left full but not stuffed. Also, the wine pourings were VERY generous - the hostess had told us that each wine would be about 2 sips - well I would say more like 2 gigantic gulps, so it was definitely worth the price. As this is a chef's choice menu, you do need to be somewhat adventurous when choosing this restaurants. HOWEVER, and this is a big one, they do accommodate dietary restrictions. I am a vegan, and I was afraid we wouldn't ever be able to try Nuvo, but the chef said it was no problem as long as I called at least 24 hours prior to our reservation. I can tell this was not his first time preparing a vegan meal as everything was not only incredible, but also incredibly creative and inventive including ravioli with a vegetable ricotta, multiple courses that included edible foraged flowers and mushrooms, and several courses of dessert including a vegan panna cotto, a deconstructed s'more with a toasted vegan marshmallow, and even a nut milk ice cream. Tips: - Make an early reservation as you'll get your choice of table - Plan to be there a very long time - from walking in to paying the check, we were there just over three hours - When I told them I was a vegan, they didn't ask about honey - which I'm fine with, but I know many vegans are not. If you avoid honey, make sure you mention that up front, because it was in at least two of the courses. -You MUST get the coffee!
(5)Jenn C.
I chose Nuvo after reading all of the wonderful reviews, namely on Yelp, but sadly, I was led astray. First, I want to give credit where credit is due. The two chefs were great! They were friendly and engaging. They were very informative and they have a great concept. The presentation was lovely as well - each dish displayed beautifully. Very innovative. The lack of stars is due to the food. Granted, as the menu varies, it is quite possible that we just got unlucky, but in my opinion, the chefs are trying to do too much in each and every dish. Some flavors just don't go together or even if they do, there is no need to overwhelm every dish with every flavor known to man. I don't recall every single dish we had, but one that stood out was the vanilla mashed potatoes topped with bone marrow. The idea of bone marrow with mashed potatoes sounds great! A touch of vanilla? Why not? This dish, however, was so heavily laden will vanilla, it tasted like eating a vanilla tootsie roll. With marrow. Also, with about 2 tablespoons of potatoes and 1 tablespoon of marrow, it was a greasy mess. The langoustine head soup. Oh good god. Care to sprinkle some fresh lemon zest in there to combat the fishyness? Or maybe a splash of vinegar. Either way, it was like accidentally falling into a stagnant pond. It was much too strong for my taste. Something else that bothered me was every single dish had flowers or plants on top. Not really incorporated. Just sprinkled on top. Some dishes had flowers. Some had leaves. Some had herbs, roots and all. The amount of "garnish" (and i use this loosely as i believe they are meant to be an integral part of the dish), was not proportional to the actual dish. How is it possible for me to shove 3.7 plants in my mouth per bite of food when there is only approx 1 oz of main ingredient on the plate? Sodium. They LOVE their spices and salt is no exception. Especially when everything is cooked down to give you the "full flavor." Expect to drink lots of water for the next 48-72 hours. The concept is great. The execution can certainly be improved upon. If you live in the Tri-State area and have never experienced a restaurant like this and you are adventurous, certainly something to try (for approx $170 per person). If you have a more refined palate and have tasted the best the world has to offer, not worth the time. For the price, I would have expected a more exquisite affair.
(2)Shari S.
Great meal! Went for my bday dinner. This is a unique restaurant. We loved it. Best for foodies or people interested in learning more about food. We got the 8 course meal and wine pairing. Fantastic. If you aren't comfortable reading the menu before you go, this place is not for you. I loved knowing what wasn't coming next and loved that I ate new things. The chef is unbelievably creative which we loved. Go here and enjoy the experience. The 8 course meal ran about $140 pp with wine flight included but so worth it. They have 4 course meal choice if the 8 course is not for you.
(5)Sean B.
I've had a lot of great dining experiences, but what I found at Nuvo this weekend wasn't just dining out. No it was much more than that. It was as if we walked into our own private dining room to be served by chef's that clearly love what they are doing. I personally didn't know what we would find at Nuvo. I knew the reviews were great and the accolades were there too. So I was expecting a great dinner. It turned out to be a 3 hour, 8 course meal perfectly paired with a selection of wines, champagne, sake, beer, and bourbon. From the pictures I've posted you will see the care, thought, and skill that went into each course. All of the courses were presented by either the chef and owner Mark Bodenstein or the sous chef along with the drink pairing. The thought behind each course was explained along with why the drink choice made sense. We couldn't have been happier with our night at Nuvo and while it was expensive it was worth the price in every way. A foodie will fall in love with this restaurant.
(5)Devin V.
Nuvo is most definitely the most impressive restaurant I've ever been to, Cincinnati or otherwise. For any adventurous eater around - a must go. We did the 8 course menu, with wine pairings, which actually ends up being 10+ courses with a few palate cleansers as well. I can't do these dishes justice with my descriptions but just to give an idea: We started with cauliflower puree & beluga caviar, some kind of cheese bread, then a shrimp cocktail served over liquid nitrogen, an interactive leek soup with truffle butter, carrot puree ravioli that burst in your mouth (amazing!), a hibiscus gel palate cleanser with what they called snow (amazing again), the forest floor- a collection of perfectly seasoned mushrooms, flowers and moss, wagu beef with golden carrots, another palate cleanser of tomatillo juice and rosehip powder, cheese gelato with honeycomb and huckleberries, liquid nitrogen 'crackerjack' and a play on chocolate cake (which we had to skip because dinner took much longer than expected) Everything was beautifully presented- the best I've seen in Cincinnati, creatively prepared- I've never seen such creativity in food in Cincinnati EVER. I was impressed with everything. Service was great- very informative and helpful. The wine pairings ranged from a rose to chardonnay, champagne, and many varietals in between I can't remember. I can't say enough about how much I enjoyed this experience. The ONLY negative was when the bill came- our courses came to $120/person for the food coursing plus additional for the drink pairings - so the bill was over $400 with tip. A bit of a shock, but for our anniversary it was totally worth it. Innovative, creative, unique & amazing. LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! Can't wait to go back for my birthday!
(5)Michelle R.
I loved every bit of my experience at Nuvo. I was invited to do the 8 course meal by my boyfriend and his family. Everything. EVERYTHING. Was amazing. The staff is incredibly polite and friendly. Their descriptions for the courses are just pretty much the best things ever. I think we spent 3 hours eating everything. Every dish was amazing--the flavors were unique, but cohesive. The chef is really very outstanding. I took pictures of half the dishes (AND the coffee demonstration) and they are all beautiful and equally tasty. It's quite possibly the best meal I've had all year. Definitely the most memorable.
(5)Tara S.
My husband and I had our anniversary dinner at Nuvo. We had the 8 course tasting without a wine pairing. We ordered a bottle to have with the meal. The best course, in my opinion, was a potato/leek soup with a truffle butter sphere included. The flavors were perfect and the dish was interactive (poured the hot soup over the truffle butter sphere to melt it at the table). The forest floor was also a wonderful course. The ambiance was lovely. A historic building and quite intimate. Very impressed with the decor. Being placed at a table right adjacent to the kitchen door was a tad irritating, but that is the way it goes. It is a small restaurant in an old house all space is utilized. Sadly, I do have a criticism. My husband has a nut allergy and we made sure they knew that. He ended up having an allergic reaction to something before we got to the dessert course, and we had to leave. We could not pinpoint what caused it since we explained about the nut issue prior to dining (commented when making reservation, was addressed during reservation confirmation, and with server at the restaurant). I cannot blame Nuvo since he might be allergic to something else other than nuts and we just did not know it. It is just kind of jarring to pay over $150 for a meal and have had an allergic reaction to something you were served. I suppose it is important to keep in mind that the point of Nuvo is the diverse ingredients, and being creative. Sometimes when dining with a person with known food allergies, creative food is not always the best choice. Without the allergic reaction - would have been a pleasing and unique experience. Moral of the story - beware those with food allergies.
(3)Justin H.
Very good prix fix meal. Had it with the wine pairing and really enjoyed it. Creative food the area, like a cooking show.
(5)Mike M.
Hidden Gem!!! What a great find. We are always looking for new places to try in the Cincinnati area. This one was great. Very small with only 7-10 tables. It was interesting from the moment we walked in. No Maitre D. No server. Everything was done by the chefs themselves. This means you are getting the description of the food straight from the source. The overall experience was really like being at your friends house where they are cooking you a fabulous dinner. Our primary chef, Mark, turned out to be the founder and owner. The restaurant is a chef tasting menu only. We had the 8 course menu (which, with all the snacks and free treats thrown in was really like 11). They specialize in all wild ingredients and the presentations were simply gorgeous. I wish we had taken pictures to show them off. The taste was even better. Every course was spot on and the drink pairings matched nicely (though we are not fans of sherry and sake which were two of the pairings we could easily tell they were good matches if you like them). The finale of the meal matched the rest with scrambled egg ice cream (yes real scrambled eggs!!!!) with black truffle and chocolate toppings. The coffee is a must enjoy ending both for the fabulous taste and the VERY cool presentation (think chemistry class and bunson burner). We will definitely be back.
(5)John B.
Best meal I had of 2013. I waited until the new year before I made the claim, but yup, the dinner I had here with a fellow Yelp friend (shout out to Tim H.), took the prize. From course one the food was the kind that I actually slow down and enjoy every morsel. The presentation and flavor of each plate really made the night special and memorable. Each of us brought a bottle (I don't know if it is still BYO) and recommend that you at least have one glass of wine that can be paired with your meal. (Ask for a recommendation from Marie). As Beth D. aptly mentioned, dining at NuVo is an experience that I hope you get a chance to enjoy. The menu changes frequently as the master chef Mr Bodenstein flexes his culinary muscles and creates unique and sometimes off the wall dishes. I look forward to warmer weather as they might have the makings for an intimate back patio area.
(5)Alex H.
Nuvo is one of the most innovative and creative dinning experiences I have ever encountered. The food was amazing and the service was top notch. If you have not been to this restaurant then you are missing out!!!
(5)J O.
We had an amazing experience at NUVO from the moment we stepped in the door until we closed the place down. We love finding places like this and it is definitely one of the best in Cinncinati. I love showing up and not having to choose what to eat and when each dish comes it is a fun surprise. The food was so delicious and unique. We have both dined all over the world and there were things that we had never tried before which is a definite plus in my book. Ben the sous chef made the experience delightful. We had so much fun chatting with him and hearing his description of each dish. The wine pairing was very generous is a must. The playlist was great and also added to the experience. We are from Columbus/Scottsdale and will make a trip back with friends just to experience NUVO again.
(5)John S.
Amazing. Great food, portions, service and flavors. Definitely a great time. Do not be in a rush, this is a place to take your time at and enjoy. Bon appetite.
(5)Sharon Y.
I can't tell you how much I love this restaurant. We've been 3 times now and it is an absolute delight and treat. Half of the fun is not knowing what's coming and the other half is the flavor explosion combined with the beautiful and unique presentation. The menu is currently 8 courses for $65/person, but a couple of items were served to us before we started our 8 courses. It's amazing. If I thought I could have gotten away with it, I probably would've licked my plate after each course. I can't do coffee in the evening, but if you can, you should do it here. We watched the siphon process at another table and it was something to behold. In this area, it just doesn't get any more creative when it comes to food. As a Covingtonian, I love that this gem is in my neck of the woods and, on the rare occasion that my husband and I can go on a date, this will remain at the top of our list.
(5)Ann R.
Had the most innovative meal outside of NYC right here in Cincinnati. Hubby and I had the 8 course tasting menu with pairings which included a stout with one course. (There is no point in making any other choice, the 3 course menu will leave you wishing you were having what everyone around you was having.) Which is really more like 12 courses with the triple amuse bouche, gifts from the kitchen, and palate cleanser. We didn't leave hungry but weren't overly full either. it is one menu so if you have dietary considerations TELL THEM AHEAD and they will accommodate your needs. They tell you this but apparently the people at the next table didn't pay attention.
(5)John A.
I know this review won't match what others have said. Here's why. I have been to other similar "tasting" concepts in San Francisco and Chicago. At neither of them did I leave hungry. The food at Nuvo was inventive, entertaining, and intriguing. We enjoyed nearly all of the courses. Some more than others, but definitely an adventure. For the price, regardless, I shouldn't leave hungry. I literally went home and ate again. I'm sorely disappointed that I can't write a positive review because of that.
(2)Bea D.
I can't be happier to have Bodenstein back in Covington. I have always been a big fan. It is no surprise that I enjoyed NuVo as much as I did. I love the surprise of 6 small dishes for a single price. Be prepared to dine when visiting NuVo. It is a dining EXPERIENCE. That means you should not be in a hurry to be anywhere and take time to enjoy the company of your fellow diners. The ambience is upscale, simple, and elegant. The glassware, cutlery, and dishes complement the modern, simple attitude of the decor. The food is well thought out and absolutely delicious. I am especially impressed with the vegetables. Last but not least, they are wonderful wine advisors. I encourage you to pay NuVo a visit. It is truly an EXPERIENCE.
(5)Kristan H.
Somewhere between 2 and 3 stars, honestly, but I see potential here and definitely want to encourage Nuvo, because I think it could be a great addition to Cincinnati/NKY's dining scene. As others have explained, it's a prix fixe menu, but we were offered two options: the regular 6-courses for $45, or 3-courses for less. (I don't remember the exact amount.) As food enthusiasts, we wanted the full experience, so we chose to do all 6 courses (but not the optional foie gras add-on). The interior was smaller than I expected, with the door opening onto a narrow atrium between two dining areas. We were seated in the room to the right, at two tables pushed together to accommodate our party of 3, which isn't a big deal at all except that a small gap had been left between the tables, and later some of the dishes were placed in the "center," accentuating the gap. It just didn't feel ... polished. Similarly, later in the night when I had to go to the bathroom, I learned that it was in a corner of the other dining room, which was set up (at least that night) as a private space for 2. This meant that I had to walk right through/past the couple dining there, which felt awkward. As for our food, it went something like this... (I took pictures but can't remember every detail of the dishes.) - Green apple creme with "pop rocks" on brioche toast. Good idea, and the "pop rocks" were fun, but the toast could have been crunchier. - "Forest floor," which was a sort of mushroom soup/salad redux. I usually don't like mushrooms, but these were fairly good, and I was able to eat not only my portion but also most of my dinner companions' too. (They didn't enjoy it as much but didn't want to look rude.) - Lamb with fingerling potatoes. My dinner companions don't eat lamb, so they got beets instead. The lamb was quite good, as were the beets, but again my companions asked for my help to finish theirs. - "Eggnog" served in an eggshell with cinnamon and nutmeg. My favorite course! And my companions liked it too. - Egg yolk in polenta with "gourmet chicken nuggets." Probably the overall favorite dish of our group. - Salmon with candied greens, I think. Fairly good, but my dinner companions aren't big seafood eaters, so one last time, I ate a bit of theirs. - We ended on a high note, with an interesting dessert plate served in an artist's paint tray. Included flourless chocolate cake balls, merengue crisps, some sort of tart banana creme, and 3 types of homemade ice cream, all delicious. So, overall, good variety and decent value. Yet somehow we still felt a bit underwhelmed. (And yes, I recognize that my dining companions could be accused of being "picky eaters," and that certainly impacted our experience.) For reference -- and perhaps also a factor -- my fiancé and I had recently been to Alinea in Chicago, which also serves a large number of small courses with the aim of creating an inventive food experience. There's simply no way for anything to compare to Alinea, but if Nuvo is claiming the same "science + food" goal, then I think they have a ways to go. I really do want them to succeed, though, and I see the potential for it! Nothing I've criticized here is un-fixable. 6 courses for $45 is a good concept, one that I think Cincinnati foodies will support. It's just that the execution needs some additional thought/finesse. I'd love to come back in a few months and see that. Side note: Our server was a very sweet girl who was clearly trying very hard to please us. I almost feel bad that our experience (and thus my review) isn't more glowing, because I wouldn't want her to take it personally. She had no fault whatsoever.
(3)Kelly L.
One of the best meals we've had in Cincinnati/NKy. Chef Mark and our server, Logan, made a routine Wednesday night magical. Interior: 5- classy and intimate Service: 10!!!! - friendly informative Food: 4s and 5s. It's prix fixe (great for adventurous foodies!) but not all courses are going to be equally loved. All were beautiful and well-intentioned. But when it starts with brut and ends with a smoking (literally-smoke wafting!) cigar box full of truffles and tiny meringues, you know you have had a unique experience. Wine pairings- TEN. Don't skimp! This is event dining and pairings were amazing. We were cared for, educated and well-fed. Definitely will return! K2 PS- We were given a handwritten notecard from our server with all the wines written down and thanking us!
(5)Janie H.
Absolutely incredible. Went for our 10-year anniversary and could not have made a better choice. Inventive, creative, and fresh. Not for the boring american pallet but if you're up for good food that's not typical, this is your place! We did the wine pairing and that was really the icing on the cake. So not what you're thinking (cabernet for this, malbec for that, reisling for dessert). The chefs could not have been more helpful and their passion for food and cooking makes the entire experience. Such a fun time and an exciting food adventure. I HIGHLY recommend!!!!
(5)Charles K.
We had a party of six and I will sum up my review to say our experience was very good and we would easily recommend this restaurant to others. High points: - Communication for reservation beforehand was professional and friendly - Mark, the chef, asked and accommodated allergies and tastes - The space, like the previous establishment in the space, feels warm and like a home - Our server was attentive and friendly - Marie, one of the owners, was a joy to have around the table and introduced the wine pairings that matched well with the meals. - The experience, at the price, seemed very reasonable - There were several high points in the food - particularly the pork and then the smoking chocolate dessert box (amazing) Points to consider: - We did the 9 course option - and this was spread over 3.5 hours - so, make sure the group you are with are good friends! We had a blast. This isn't a knock on the restaurant, just a comment to think about. - Of the 9 courses, we were thrilled with about 5 and ok with the rest. They definitely take some risks and, while some may not be spot-on, you can appreciate it. - While they were attentive prior to our arrival with dietary restrictions, we had several pieces that had to be returned because the item was on the plate. Overall, we were very happy with the experience and, it was just that, an experience. Marie and Mark have a good thing going and we'll look forward to future culinary creations out of their kitchen.
(4)Emma S.
Wow, this was an absolutely AWFUL experience. I do not know where to start - the cold courses, hair in food, dirty silverware, unapologetic waitress, or accusatory chef. I felt like we were on punkd. Cincinnati has amazing restaurants - Boca, Orchids, Nicolas, Salazar (to name a few). They blow Nuvo out of the water (and then some). I can't convey how mediocre to bad this restaurant was. I have been to restaurants all over the world / this was so bad., how the chef handled our complaints was appalling. Do not get here. Go to any of the awesome restaurants around Nuvo. I am beyond disappointed. So awful.
(1)Paul D.
A real dining experience. My wife and I have been to Nuvo a couple of times. The meals are not only delicious but entertaining becuase you never know what you are going to get!! One of our "palate cleansers" was shaved ice, ginger, other flavors and pop rocks!! If you want to order a steak and potatoes - don't come to Nuvo. If you have no sense of food adventure - don't come to Nuvo. If you want to be entertained by the food presentation, eat delicious out of the ordinary dishes, and have one of the best dining experiences in Cincinnati then go to Nuvo.
(5)Sheena D.
Great date spot! I came here (with my now boyfriend) on our first date. It was a great experience and I'm surprised it took me this long to write a review. Luckily neither of us were picky eaters because it is a pre fixe menu. The great part is there is not decisions to be made which makes for a nice intimate dinner, not to mention there are probably less than 10 tables there. The only decision is your drink and I would highly recommend going with the wine pairing. Its my understanding that the food is all or mostly local, which adds an even more uniqueness to this place. The food was great! A lot of it were things that I would typically never order off a menu, but once I started eating, it was all delicious! We even had a special italian/shaved ice type desert with pop rocks in it! Sounds crazy, but the quality and uniqueness of this dishes gives this place 5 stars in my book! Lastly, this place is quite hidden. Look for the address on the building because there are no signage that stand out to tell you its a restaraunt and not just a nice 19th century house.
(5)Steven K.
Food is fabulous, better than advertised. Didn't have a reservation but we were politely escorted to the upstairs bar where Alexis was absolutely wonderful. Very knowledgable and informative about the food and drinks offered and was pretty cute too. Will definitely make it a point to come back to experience chef Mark's excellent culinary skills again soon!!
(5)Tara S.
We had a really great experience here. There were 4 of us, and we all opted for the 6-course dinner with wine pairings. The 6 courses were explained to us by our great server in advance, but it was a bit strange that she couldn't tell us about the wine pairings because they didn't really know what wines we would be getting (it depends on what's open from the day before, what is available, etc). That felt a little strange, like saying "you're going to end up with whatever we need to get rid of", HOWEVER, that being said, the wine choices were excellent and we enjoyed them thoroughly. Courses were (and I am going to be very simple in my descriptions because I cannot possibly do these justice): Spring pea soup- Delicious. No other way around it. Paired with a crisp white wine. Loved it, could have eaten giant bowlful. Gnocchi with carrot butter- Where has carrot butter been all my life? I don't know how this magical sauce is made, but it is heaven. I loved the texture of the gnocchi. Again, I could have eaten an entire plateful of this. Seabass with tomato sauce and couscous- Great, the fish was perfectly prepared. Duck- The duck was delicous, but the skin was tough. Once I got through/under it, the meat itself was moist and tender. Green salad on a housemade cheese sauce/spread- Oh yeah. Cheese is involved, I'm in, and this was very good. Dessert- Housemade buttermilk yogurt with a smoked raspberry and habanero sauce- Oh My Goodness. Loved, loved, loved. Complaint was how tiny the portion was (about 2 spoonfuls). The rest of dessert was a tray of chocolates and meringues, these did not stand out to me. Paired with an amazing champagne. All in all, here is what I thought: nothing was disapointing, we enjoyed everything and everyone cleaned every plate. The gnocchi and the soup were probably my favorite courses. My husband would have liked to have seen something like a beef or pork dish offered (he is just "meh" on seafood and duck, but STILL enjoyed them!). The dessert was lacking, the tray of chocolates did not do much for any of us. The wine pairings were perfect, despite the feeling that they were just winging it, and our server had very thorough knowledge of each one, so clearly she knows what she's talking about. The wine pours were generous, I sometimes struggled to finish the previous one before the next course, but I would NEVER complain about that!! All in all, I look forward to returning because it's my understand that the menu changes very frequently, and we truly did have such a great meal.
(4)Peg M.
Dinner at Nuvo was an entirely satisfying full evening experience. With a combination of gracious service, delicious and innovative seasonal food artfully prepared and well-paired beverages, Nuvo is unlike any other restaurant in the region. Because your reservation assures your table for the evening, feel free to begin with a leisurely cocktail and snack in the upstairs bar, and then prepare to be surprised and delighted over the next few hours.
(5)Joey Z.
NuVo is an experience like nothing else in Cincinnati Tristate area. I consider myself a bit of a foodie in that I am uneasy if I haven't tried something new to the Cincinnati food scene and restaurants take priority whenever I travel. Given I don't get out much during colder seasons, it says a lot that I have been to NuVo six times since they opened in the Fall. This may seem like a lot; however, the frequent changes to the menu are based on what Chef Bodenstein believes to be the freshest ingredients available at that time and it is hard to not want to go back to see what creations he has for the evening. His passion for food science is evident the second you receive your first dish... Was honestly a jaw dropping experience for myself. I am normally a quick eater, but as someone mentioned in previous review, the dishes truly are something that you don't want to go away.. until you realize there is another course :) It is a pre fixe menu, which I prefer, not being a picky eater; however, it would be something to consider for those that are more on the picky side. I do understand that they have vegetarian alternatives for those that may have concern. I have had a variety of dishes over my visits to NuVo, which makes it hard to point out favorites; however, I will say that the Forest Floor(mushrooms & greens), Winter Carrots, Snow (cold dish made with pop rocks.. yes, pop rocks), and beef dishes(have been several) stand out in my head. Wine pairing is optional, but they also have a nice wine list if you simply choose to pick a bottle.. or four ;) Marie is very knowledgeable with the wines and was very generous at offering her thoughts and recommendation for bottle when I did opt out of the pairing. If you are a coffee fan, you MUST order the coffee to close your evening. Not a big coffee drinker, but hard to pass it up here! If you want an incredible meal consisting of food turned into art (or impress a date with one;), then NuVo should be on the top of your list. Even better, it is more cost effective than hitting the larger name restaurants in the city. Six courses (with added intermezzos and amuse bouche) runs $45, which I was extremely surprised by after being in similar restaurants in other cities. This is where I was confused with earlier mention of Alinea in Chicago, where I have also been and very much enjoyed. While I have no problem saying the food science approach is similar, Alinea is on an entirely different scale as it will run five times (easily) the cost of NuVo. I would definitely be a repeat diner at NuVo if it were in a different city, but I am VERY happy to say that we have it here in Covington/Cincinnati! It is the place I will continue to take food connoisseurs when they come to visit!
(5)Anna W.
While I can appreciate all other reviewers' opinions about their experiences at Nuvo, I have to give mine in which I title it "The Emperor's New Clothes." My husband and I came based on all of the outstanding reviews online. Even though there is no menu - you order the number of courses and you get whatever Chef is preparing for that evening. We started off the evening at 7:45 with me telling my husband "just roll with it - it'll be fun." I ended up walking out mid-"meal" with the word meal in quotes, because I could not handle my starvation any longer. I ordered the 3 courses and my husband ordered 8 absurdly thinking we could share some. Our first course came out in an overly large bowl with a spec of creamy-based soup and a biscuit the size of a quarter to the side. There was about 4 tablespoons of soup. Because my husband ordered more courses, I sat there whilst he continued to be served his extra courses, which the concept here is the poor patron is kept waiting for 20-25 minute intervals. By 9:00, I had only been served my scant soup portion, and my husband had 3 courses that would not have fed a baby bird. It was at this point that (with my husband's agreement) I left him there to finish and went next door to Blinkers for a real meal, with actual food coming out of the kitchen, and my stomach thanking me. Our meal cost $130 at Nuvo. To me, this is a case of the Emperor walking around thinking he is wearing the finest silk, but in reality he is naked but no one wants to say anything. Was the food delicious? Yes-what I tasted of it - it sure was. My advice is if you are considering coming here, leave your small wallet at home and bring your larger one, bring all of your patience and perhaps a good book, and do not bring your appetite. Because this whole experience takes place over a 2 1/2 hour time period. They cannot possibly turn a table, so 8 tables per night is about all that is handled here, and I cannot imagine there is much repeat business and do not see this concept really taking hold long term in Covington, Ky. Perhaps in LA or New York, but not here. The chef has his own concept of when and how much you will eat, and has nothing to do with what you want or expect. And if you are reading this review thinking I am a hillbilly and do not know really good food - I have eaten at 5 star restaurants in the US and abroad, and I do know good food. I was sorely disappointed at this experience and the time kept waiting between courses. The patron sitting next to us said they think this is so that your brain gets the signal that you've eaten which takes about 20 minutes. Regardless, had I known all of this ahead of time and was prepared for what was to happen, I would not have been so thrown off kilter about it all. I give 2 stars only because the food was delicious.
(2)Tim M.
Wow! Just had a fantastic dining experience at Nuvo. This place was great. It's one of those narrow block houses, you enter just to the side of the front, and the interior is nicely decorated, warm neutral colors, with nice dinnerware. We were served by Logan, the front of the house manger. We went with the six course prix fixe, with the beverage pairing. You need to be somewhat open minded. You don't choose what to eat, you eat what the chef prepares for you, so you have to trust him. I didn't happen to meet him, but let me tell you, he is very, very trustworthy, gastronomically speaking. I don't have time to go over all six courses, along with little starters and treats over the course of the meal, but the food was the best I've had in the area. Everything is fresh and locally grown or produced, and the menu changes with what's available. Logan introduced nearly every course and the drink pairings, and I was amazed how knowledgeable he was about the unique foods that they served. And they were definitely items you just can't get anywhere else. There was a braised pork shoulder with carrot butter, dandelion greens salad, a radish salad, an amazing dessert of strawberry and buttermilk yogurt, and then little chocolates and meringues in a cigar box with some birch smoke in it. This place is an incredible experience. Don't let my poor descriptive abilities turn you off, this place is worth the trip.
(5)N L.
Incredible dining experience that is totally unique to Cincinnati. The price point for the 6 course meal is solid considering the variety of foods for tasting. NuVo's focus is on vegetables and I am more of a carnivore. But if chefs could make vegetables taste this good I might change my tune. The house-made tagliatelle was the highlight, with the caramelized chocolate a close second.
(5)Erin H.
I could not be more proud of Marie and the team behind NuVo. My boyfriend and I just returned from an exquisite 6-course meal (with the addition of fancy cheese puffs, an amuse-bouche or two, and complimentary/celebetory champagne:) NuVo's enterior is warm but chic, while still paying homage to the building's rich history. Every detail was thought out perfectly and precisely. For example: the unique water pitchers and glasses, the real silverware, the simple rose centerpieces or our strikingly beautiful server who recited the chef's creations with ease and answered any questions we had. The chef's selections of seasonal vegetables and twists on American cuisine was refreshing and delicious. Each course was vibrant in its colors and taste. The mix of sweet and savory or spicy was tantalizing and we were eager for each following course. We finished the meal feeling utterly satisfied but not stuffed or uncomfortable. The bill was brought out on a Himalayan pink salt block, which was a neat final touch that I've never seen done anywhere else. Overall-wonderful experience! I can recommend this restaurant wholeheartedly and can not wait to bring my friends and family here in the future! Great date-night idea or for any special occasion. Bravo NuVo!
(5)Susan L.
It is a pre fix menu (changes weekly and you do not know what the menu is before you go), normally 6 courses for $45. I had a coupon and went with 3 friends so we did not have the full 6 course, but based on what we had $45 would be a great deal for as wonderful as this meal was. The place is very small and only open Wed thru Sunday for dinner (reservations would be a good idea especially as more people find out about it, it has only been open less than a couple of months). It is in a beautiful old house. It was not full tonight, but even full it would still have intimate setting and I do not think it would ever get really loud. The dishes are big enough that you can really appreciate the taste, but small enough you could have 6 courses without feeling stuffed. The food was so creative, all were incredible tasting, and primarily locally sources quality ingredients. All 4 of us finished every course even to the point of trying to figure out how to get to the last of the sauce left on the plates. My favorite dinning experiences recently have been at Ryan Santo's Please pop up dinner's, but even though Ryan's dinners are still my favorite, Nuvo comes so close (and this is very high praise from me). At my table we were deciding how to rate it and we all decided 5 starts, the couple close by us said they fully agreed too. I do not give 5 stars out a lightly , but based on the ambience, the service, and the quality and creativity of the food (but I also do not rate a dinner on the same scale as a fine dinning establishment), Nuvo based on my intiial experience deserves it
(5)Debra H.
Just had dinner there tonight with our friends who are serious foodies. It was absolutely delicious, interesting, creative... Each dish was a delight. We went for the wine pairings, and they were excellent. The atmosphere is simple and comfortable. The wait staff was attentive, informed but not hovering. The menu changes a bit each night and totally every two weeks. We will return.
(5)