Flavor packed Mexican Rick Bayless style. Get reservations.
(5)
Khwaja H.
Good apps. Decent drinks.
(4)
Sean B.
Occupying the former Bella space next to the Aronoff, this new restaurant from the owners of Boca in Oakley adds another boost for locally-owned businesses downtown. The space itself has undergone a significant makeover, more soothing earth tones, and is a generally more relaxed atmosphere. On a Tuesday evening before seeing Wicked next door, the place was packed, so we elected to sit at the bar to eat, rather than wait for a table. The drinks, especially the Pink Grapefruit Margarita, were excellent and service was efficient, communicative, and friendly. Chips and salsa came after our drinks and were a bit of a letdown. The chips are made from flour -- a no-no in any authentic Mexican restaurant -- and consequently heavy and oily. The salsa was OK, but nothing to write home about. Fortunately, this was all rescued by an order of guacamole, which was fresh, flavorful, and more than enough. The bartender recommended the tacos, Mexican mac-n-cheese, and the grilled "niman ranch" pork chop. We tried all three and all were excellent. The mahi-mahi tacos, served with guacamole and lime, were crispy, flaky, and delicious -- reminding us of living in Southern California. The Mexican mac-n-cheese had a nice zing to it and was quite honestly enough for a meal -- not the side we intended. My pork chop, a thick cut, bone-in piece of meat was served over spicy, mashed plantains (great!) and with a orange habanero sauce. My wife said it was the best pork chop she ever had, and I am inclined to agree (at least in recent memory). Nada is a welcome addition to downtown -- we are definitely going to go back -- hopefully they will have changed the chips by then.
(4)
Silvana D.
My family and I are here in Cincinnati for a week and read reviews online from various sites that raved about this restaurant. I am sad to say that we were very disappointed with the food here. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and downtown location. They only had one beer on draft, but at least it was good. The guacamole and chips were our favorite part. VERY disappointed with our food portions and taste. It was not gourmet at all and was very bland. My kids wouldn't even finish their chicken tacos. I ordered the chicken and corn enchilada. My husband ordered something different but was brought my s
(2)
James W.
Eggs Benedict with crab was decent. Decor and service left no complaints. They served a local specialty called "goetta" which I should advise out-of-towners is definitely an acquired taste.
(3)
Jo P.
Food was really good, even great. But the service was not so great. The hostess seemed to move people around as the mood struck. We were at first told that there were 2 tables in front of us. An hour later we began to question and realized that there were others who seemed to be put in front of us. The hostess claimed they were "reservations" but I question that. Also, we sat outside and there was a weird hot smell that seemed to come from the lights being too close to the flower boxes...gave me a headache!
(3)
Bob D.
Great food, great device and great drinks, patio dining was excellent.
(5)
Laura H.
The atmosphere is vibrant, the food is good, the drinks are strong. This is the kind of place to meet up with girlfriends before a night out on the town. Yes, it's overpriced for "mexican" but I still recommend that you check it out.
(4)
Bruce h.
We all went for the first time. We had the most delicious lunch. Honestly we spent more on drinks because they had so many tasty margaritas! The only annoyance was trying to find the bathroom! (upstairs down the hall, on the right whew!)
(5)
Jennifer B.
I found myself stranded in Cincinnati thanks to Snowmageddon 2010 in Atlanta and decided to venture outside my hotel for dinner. A short walk from the downtown Westin, Nada was packed when I arrived at 6pm. The snooty hostess told me there was three-hour wait for a table but that bar seating was first come, first serve, and sure enough a spot opened up after about five minutes. I opted for the shrimp tacos - recommended by the helpful bartender - and chips and salsa. Both were divine and the service at the bar was excellent. The couple sitting next to me was chowing down on guac and said it was terrific. A few other reviewers have dissed the chips, which are thicker than regular chips, but I found them to be tasty. The presentation of the food was very sophisticated.... would expect to find this kind of modern take on Mexican/Latin food in LA, not downtown Cinci.
(4)
Erin A.
Checked this place out while visiting family over the holidays. We thought the food was tasty. Coming from California where excellent Mexican food is on every corner, I must say, I think Nada would give some of those Cali joints a run for their money. Service was good too! I wouldn't recommend ordering shots of Patron, they were way expensive. Place looks nice inside, contemporary, and is in a good location.
(4)
Cameron S.
Awesome food! Awesome atmosphere! We are from Utah and would come back just for this place! A must place to eat!!!
(5)
Jo T.
Nada had amazing carnitas tacos and sangria! A great time for a night out, but plan to spend more than you realize - especially if you're with a drinkin' crowd!
(4)
Harshal P.
Went to Nada after work for drinks and appetizers on Thursday. The Positives: The staff was courteous and the food was good and promptly served. Very clean inside including bathroom and nice outside patio area. Negatives: Parking maybe difficult as it's located downtown but there are garages nearby. The place is a bit pricey, but you are at an upscale resturaunt.
(4)
Sophie M.
Very tasty, pleasant experience. Waitstaff john gave us detailed info about each dish and his passion for the place was evident. The Mac & cheese may not be traditional Mexican, but it was creamy, cheesy and delicious. Chips and salsa ($2) was just right. Chicken Taquitos were good and all served promptly. The Margarita selection is quite inventive.
(4)
Nicholas L.
Over 150 reviews for this place, so I doubt there is much more I can add, but I just stopped by here on a business trip yesterday and all I can really add to this lively online critique network is that you need to just fucking go here. Seriously. And get the carnitas tacos.
(5)
Katie J.
amazing atmosphere and incredible food - best mac and cheese ever! love this place everyway you look at it.
(5)
Mike S.
Great food, energetic service, trendy... very good experience.
(4)
Alex S.
Nada is full of overpriced but overly delicious food, which makes it hard for me to hate it. In fact, I really do like it. When looking at the menu, I suffer from the same feeling I do when I go to upscale Asian eateries. I'm used to Asian and Mexican food being cheap, and when it's not, it makes my eyes budge like the wolf in a Tex Avery cartoon (yeah, dropping old school references tonight). Still, I had heard so many amazing things about Nada, I was ready to put my checkbook fears aside and dive into the foodstuffs. I went on a date with my gal on a Thursday evening at about 5:30pm. I had thought about making reservations earlier that day, but went, "Nah, it's 5:30 on a Thursday. Who's going to be there?" Turns out: everyone! The 5:30pm Thursday Nada crowd is filled with large groups of businessmen and businesswomen coming in right after work for a margarita (again, an upscale margarita) and they fill up most of the tables. Crazy. My gal and I were seated right away though, but at a semi-awkward table right underneath the stairs. Not a big problem and it was my own fault. Next time - reservations. Now, what to get? We started with chips, salsa and guacamole, because, let's be fair, what else do you start with when at a Mexican restaurant. I'm used to chips being complimentary, like bread, but I was ok with paying $2, especially because they were clearly homemade and light and flaky and delicious. However, the $7 extra for guacamole was just not worth it. It was fine, but nothing amazing - and for $7 for a dip, it better be amazing. However, my meal. Oh my god, my meal. Oh my god. I got the pork-bellied tacos on a recommendation and they were everything I could have hoped for - delicious on about a million levels. If you can, get these, get these now. Do it! Do it now! Plus, the serves were friendly and attentive. Even the people who came to buss the table and pick up plates spoke to me and were nice - plus, they refilled my drink. I love when I don't have to wait for my specific waiter to get a refill. That's just nice. So although I started a bit shocked, I ended quite satisfied. I can't really beat that.
(4)
Ray L.
This is a good, nice place for a twist on Mexican. I say twist, because you won't really find anything traditional - more like American, slightly dressed up takes on the cuisine. Guacamole and salsa were very good. Guacamole was creamy and flavorful, but pretty small for a "large" size. The salsa's smoky, not too spicy. Chips are hot and fresh. Thick too, which I love. They could work on degreasing them a bit before serving, however. I got the baja fish tacos, which were good but not really what I was hoping for at the time. The server told us that the weren't really breaded, just dusted with flour and flash fried. Not true. They were very breaded. I'm not saying they weren't good, they just weren't what I was expecting. My friend got the chicken tacos, and she wins on picking the better dish. Nothing crazy going on there, but good flavors on the chicken and tons of cheese. If I ever crave a chicken taco, it will probably be theirs for a little while. I give it four stars for the entire experience of eating there. The ambiance is great, nice furniture, floor to ceiling windows (I think), really open and airy. This is a good place to take someone for some margaritas and solid food.
(4)
Kristin C.
So, I love Nada. I am finally getting around to writing this review. First of all let me say- I LOVE the guys who valet there. I valet every time I go to Nada. Call me lazy, but really it's mostly that I'm just always running RIGHT on time so I was pulling up to valet at 7:30 on the dot, the exact time of our reservation. I always tip $5 when I pull in and $5 when I leave. I have to say they take care of me- I left my phone in my car and the guy ran up to ask if I needed it and then ran back AGAIN to give it to me as I was walking in. Anyway... I go on random tangents sometimes, sorry about that. The atmosphere might be my favorite part about Nada. I like going there with a decent sized group (which we did tonight). They play fun music, overall it's just a nice place to be. I think it would be a nice place to go for a date too. The food is basically amazing. I usually get quesadillas that aren't listed on the menu- and then cover them in habanero. Another must- the strawberry margaritas are delicious. By the time we got our food I was so full from my drinks that I didn't eat 75% of my meal. I never do carry out but I actually asked her to box it up. Sadly, the server mixed up our carry out bags and handed me the wrong one. I was super sad when I realized this. I'm sure my friend won't enjoy my quesadillas drenched in hot sauce either. So, that sort of bummed me out since.. But, I'm not one to get upset over food. It actually irritates me when people do. Oh well, I will still give it a 5 star rating and next time I will check my bag before I go, lesson learned I suppose!
(5)
Samantha H.
I went here for a workday lunch and it was good. But not quite as good as the prices suggest. The guacamole was great but I've had even better.
(4)
Alvin J.
Big fan. Beautiful atmosphere with warm inviting lighting. Brazilian theme. Spacious bar. Outdoor seating available. Friendly and attentive service. I definitely recommend it to anyone going for night out in downtown Cincinnati looking for a trendy new spot to hangout.
(4)
Edith M.
Nada has the best margaritas in Cincinnati.They don't use "mixers" and you can tell right off the bat. My favorite dish is their ceviche,creamy guacamole,vegetarian tacos and queso fundito. I am not a HUGE fan of their nachos because they are so greasy that oil drips down my chin. Love their bar area.
(4)
Therese W.
I was there to meet some friends after work and we only had about an hour. The hostess made us feel unwelcome and that we needed to be gone in an hours because there were reservations for our table. The server also said we needed to be gone in an hour. The food was pretty good, but we will not be back after work or without a reservation. Seriously rude service at eh front of the house!
(3)
Carrie M.
I have only been here once, because I don't live here; but Nada's great service was part of a night I'll never forget! My boyfriend and I had just wrapped up seeing Les Miserables at the Aronoff... oh, and getting engaged. So, my new fiance and I were wandering downtown Cinci looking for someplace to get dessert to celebrate, only to discover CINCINNATI HAS ZERO NIGHTLIFE. It was almost 10. We walked up to the door of this place, saw on the sign it was closing in a few minutes, and kept on walking. To our surprise, someone came to the door and asked us what we needed, and upon hearing that all we wanted was a quick dessert, told us to come in anyway. These poor people had no problem closing a half hour late so we could celebrate our engagement and made our special night that much better. Oh, and the desserts were great!
(5)
Sam T.
The food is FANTASTICO! Really great drinks and the gaspacho, although a small portion, is delicious. The atmosphere is super fun and its a nice mix of people. Prices are decent and sitting outside if the weather permits is really nice. We have come both with and without a reservation and have had no difficulty getting seated quickly, even on a Saturday night.
(5)
Todd M.
Who knew? Who knew that you could take a taco - make it with shrimp and avocado and charred corn and a bunch of other tasty green stuff and come up with something that tastes like a tortilla-wrapped margarita? The folks at Nada knew. Great food - great service - muy buena cervasa list- nice ambience. If you're near you should go.
(4)
Angela C.
Mexican has never, unfortunately, been among my favorite food genres. I cannot explain this. However, I do appreciate a good, modern take at Mexican and Nada has pulled all the goodness together. Eric and I finally dined there with his parents and very much enjoyed it, which is a good sign, since not all of us are very adventurous eaters. The server was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the food, and incredibly friendly. We started with the queso fundido and then shared the fajitas, enchiladas, and an order of tacos together, which ended up being more than enough food. I very much wanted to try the pork-bellied tacos on Alex's recommendation, but didn't think I'd be able to talk the in laws into that one. Anyway, the steak in the fajitas was oh-so-tasty, the enchiladas had a very delicious sauce, and the carnitas tacos were great, too. All in all, a great dining experience, and a great place for groups or dates, but probably would not be a regular dining spot since it's quite pricey.
(4)
Khai N.
I was visiting from Los Angeles and didn't have high expectations going into this place. My initial thought was, "what does Cincy know about Mexican food?" Much to my surprise, Nada can compete with any Mexican restaurant in LA. I shared the queso dip and ceviche appetizer with my wife. Then we had the pork belly tacos -- amazing! We were full by then, but decided to order additional tacos a la carte -- fish, carnitas, and barbaquoa. Everything we tried at Nada was delicious. I will definitely try again next time we are in Cincy. Rise up Cincy! Go Bengals!!!!
(5)
Phoebe G.
A great place to go for happy hour or dinner. I also love to go in the summer and spring and sit outside. The margaritas are great!! They also have a wonderful breakfast menu, believe it or not. The fruit salad was so fresh. I love the decor as well!
(4)
Janice C.
On an overnight in Cincinnati recently, I decided to stroll down to Nada for an early (by Cincinnati standards - 7:30) dinner. Having read reviews before going, I had high hopes for tasty modern Latin fare, and I was not disappointed. I snagged a seat at the bar before the place got really packed and ordered a mojito. Bar service, especially when you're dining alone, can be hit or miss. The bartender here struck just the right balance of helpful, friendly, but not obtrusive. I settled on gazpacho made with local tomatoes for a starter. Wow! If you've ever had the misfortune of having an insipid gazpacho made from supermarket tomatoes, you know how disappointing it can be. This was the antithesis of that -- bright, tartness offset by the crema, a lovely smooth texture counterbalanced by the tiny croutons studded throughout. I had to stop myself from running my finger around the cup after I finished. For my main course, I ordered the green chili pork with salsa verde. WITH the fried egg option, thank you very much. I dove into the slow cooked, tender pork, piling some crema and rice onto the tortillas that come with it. Delicious. I ate as much as I possibly could, knowing there was no way to save any leftovers (bummer), then left with appetite satisfied and mood elevated.
(4)
Olivia O.
Hostess said a table would take an hour and fifteen minutes, she took my number and said she'd call when our table was ready. Before heading across the street I checked in with her to make sure she would call. She said she would. We came back an hour or so later and were told we were next on the list. So we went upstairs for a glass of wine while we waited. After watching several other parties seated, despite us being "next on the list", I checked back in with her. She was surprised to see me and said she thought we'd left. If so, why didn't she call me? She told me she'd call TWICE. Come on. As we were seated, the other hostess apologized and told us another couple stole our table. Yeah right. No need to lie to your customers. Lamb mole was good, but I didn't feel welcome here at all. We won't be coming back. Ceviche tastes like fruit loops.
(2)
Louise D.
Have been back twice to Nada and enjoyed it a lot more than the first time. The outside terrace is perfect for a hot spring evening! I tried the cazuela taster, which came out as 3 rather big pots, with 3 tacos. A lot of food...! And delicious. The second time we came here after drinks so we occupied the "private area". I tried the barbacoa tacos and they were exactly the way they should be, just the thing I needed... Still a bit expensive to my taste, but I guess that's just Nada - a hip downtown venue with amazing food and a great terrace and private dining area -- so no matter how much they charge, people will always be going back. And so will I.
(4)
Elizabeth W.
All of the bad stuff you've heard is true: yes it's expensive, yes it's crowded, yes the portions are small, yes you will wait for table. So why does it remain one of the most popular places in Cincinnati? Something about the mix of atmosphere, excellent food, attentive service, and my new favorite drinks (spicy margaritas, beer and bloody mary mix, and fresh mojitos to name a few) keep this place on the short list of places to be.
(3)
Paul S.
Excellent food! Loved the sopa app and the pork belly taco. Had the best margarita ever but since it was a specialty that the waitress recommended i don't know what it was.
(5)
Sarah G.
I recently made the drive to Cincinnati to cheer on Christine R. in the flying pig marathon. It was the first night in Cinci and me and all my friends were hungry for some Mexican. We headed over to Nada pretty early in the night (around 6) and we were told there was a 2 hour wait to sit inside. Boo! Luckily fate was shining upon us that day. There just so happened to be a huge 8 person table outside calling our name. We were a little worried about the weather as it looked like it may rain but we took our chances and I am SO GLAD we did. Service was fantastic from the moment we sat down. The waitress was extremely friendly and very helpful when we had any questions. We all started off with some of their fabulous drinks. Mango margaritas, classic margaritas, mojitos...all delicous. I am currently pregnant so sadly I could not partake...but they were able to make an amazing virgin cocktail that was sort of like a fresh squeezed lemonade with muddled blueberries. It was sooooo good. The menu is not very large but EVERYTHING sounded delicous. At first I was a bit turned off that they charged for chips and salsa but we were quickly advised when we ordered guacamole we get unlimited chips and salsa. Yes :) The guac was very good and the chips came out hot. I love hot chips!! For our meal most of us decided we wanted tacos. However, we just could not decide on which ones to get. Our awesome waitress advised us that we could mix and match the tacos and we all smiled with happiness. All of the tacos were amazing. Shrimp, pork, vegetarian, fish. YUM. My favorite was the short rib taco. It was cooked to perfection and delicous (how many times have I said delicous in this review? I know the word count is getting pretty high). I really have no complaints about our meal here. The food was awesome, the service top notch and the place was adorable. Even the bathrooms were decorated super sassy. Stained glass on the bathroom doors and a tv showing Mexican soap operas? Love it. If you happen to be in Cinci I definitely suggest adding Nada to your dining choices. I promise you will not be disappointed. I want to make a trip back to Ohio just so I can dine here again!
(5)
Will M.
Nada is another 3-times-a-month restaurant for me. No lie - I love the food. The sliders are fantastic. Every taco I've had is fantastic. The slow cooked dishes are fantastic. The real winner, though, is the chicken and corn enchiladas. They're unlike anything I've had before and they're amazing. The staff is great, too. I often sit at the bar, and the bartenders are all great. As is the sangria, I might add - best in Cincinnati. The only knock I can give Nada is that it's a touch too trendy. Just a touch, but it feels inauthentic and it feels like it's trying too hard to be cool. It is cool, no need to try. Makes you feel a bit like a jerk telling people it's one of your favorite places, like you're that mortgage broker whose aging BMW 3 Series was set on fire by Walter White. Like your name is Brad and you still high five people despite being in your late 30s. Like you talk loudly on your cellphone about slam-dunking the Henderson account. In other words, like you think you're an important businessman but are really in account management. Still great food, great drinks, and a fun place. And the best brunch item in the city - the steak and egg fajitas. An absolute mess, but such a delicious mess.
(5)
Will Z.
Pork. Belly. Tacos. OMG. The first bite of this amazing heavenly creation was an explosion of gluttony and bliss. Crisp, rich, pork belly melted in my mouth and meshed perfectly with smooth guacamole, crunch pickled vegetables, and nice hot salsa. By far the best taco I'd ever eaten in my life. Pork belly may be somewhat of a restaurant cliche now, but it's still one of my favorite ingredients. Unless you're Kosher, you absolutely must try these tacos. Through my two visits, I've also tried mashed plantains, ceviche, lamb mole, and chips and salsa. The mashed plantains were very good, nice and buttery, sweet, and garlicky. Ceviche was kinda meh; I've had much better. Lamb mole was good. Unlimited chips and salsa are a steal for $2 and definitely a must if you're hungry, since the portions here aren't so big for the money. I liked the environment a lot though, and there's a great patio outside for nicer days.
(4)
Linsey G.
Everyone loves this place, and really, it's no secret why. I'm not a very classy broad, but being at this restaurant catapults me into feeling like I'm among Cincinnati's elite. The ambiance is sophisticated and romantic, but it doesn't feel stuffy. It can get pretty crowded and noisy, but I think that's part of its appeal. The food is great. Nada's chips and guacamole are fantastic, as well as the mahi mahi tacos. The first time I'd been last year, our server was awesome. When I went earlier this week, our server was equally friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, but perhaps a little too negligent between taking drink and food orders. Besides that, I really don't have any complaints. It's a great place for a date, or--as we dined earlier this week--to catch up with old friends. It's versatile and perfect for any occasion, and--in my case--serves as a reminder that I can feel much classier than I actually am.
(4)
Tim L.
Hip, tasty, and not too pricey. Without a doubt some of the best Mexican food I've had in the city.
(5)
Sarah D.
This is probably the nicest Mexican restaurant in Cincinnati, certainly the nicest I've been to. The atmosphere was nice and I have no complaints about the service. I definitely recommend their sparkling sangria! If you're a cilantrophobe like me, you will have to skip out on a lot of dishes though. Going to a more authentic Mexican restaurant this is expected of course. Next time I have a hankering for Mexican and have a little room in the food budget, I'll definitely be back!
(4)
Jenny T.
Great food and atmosphere. I was expecting plain, tasteless Mexican like most places in Cincy, but this was not the case. I got the premium margarita and Baja fish tacos. The tacos could've had a little more spice to them but overall a great place!
(4)
Steve S.
I went there late at night with a few friends who had a few to many drinks. The service was top notch as they worked with my drunk friends and served them in a professional manner. We ordered the chicken and fish taco, which tasted great. I would recommend trying them to anyone. More to come as I sober up:)
(3)
Namrata A.
As a New Yorker, who has tried the worst and best of Mexican food (including California and the actual deal in Mexico City), I really enjoyed Nada. Went here for dinner around 9pm on a Sunday night. We were promptly seated (a bit squished between a group of 5 and a group of two friends). The waitress was super on point - she was friendly, courteous, gave good explanations and recommendations and was genuine about our experience. We ordered: - gaucomole (I ate bits of the hard cover of an avocado in this, and it was pretty bland, I'll pass on this next time) - mac and cheese with poblano peppers - AMAZINGLY good and such a good taste - tortilla chips - real tortilla chips, bit on the thick side, but you know they're fresh when you see some leftover oil on the bottom of the tray - chile mango margarita - so tasty for those who love sweet and spicy drinks in one - chicken enchilladas - good but needed a bit more of taste since its just chicken and cheese - vegetarian tacos - great, mushrooms were sauteed well, though i wish the tortillas weren't the basic corn ones, something a bit more authentic - on the side you have green sauces that are hot - didn't try jalapeno but the other one whose name i forget was off the hook good (as you can see, i love spice) - no room for dessert though Pros: - Most of the food - Ambiance - Service - Price Cons - some of the food (just a bit though) Very good place to go. I'll be back. It's my favorite thus far in Cincy.
(4)
Paul K.
I had wanted to find a mexican restaurant since I moved here. It has great location in downtown which I don't have chance to visit that often. So it opened my eyes about downton Cincinnati. Great food and service. My girlfriend and I shared baja style Mahi Mahi and carnitas tacos. Both were very good. I can't wait to visit here again and try other menus. Well, they are little pricey though. But I don't complaint about the price as long as the food is good.
(4)
Jackie S.
Nada is not-ta be missed! The food is delicious but small portions for the price. I suppose you are paying for the convenience of being so close to fountain square and the CAC. The cool ambiance makes it a great place for lunch with co-workers, ladies night out, or a date. I like that there is a choice between indoor or outdoor seating and that the side orders (omg try the mashed plaintains) are always a large enough portion to share. There's a prude little grandmother in me that just has to get this out...Something funky is going on with the stairs to the second level (where the bathrooms are). Since they are minimalistic, you ladies might want to make sure you hold your skirts closely so that the boys don't see any of your unmentionables.
(4)
Cory A.
Trendy, cool and relaxed. You would be right at home with a suit or jeans. Great inventive food with bold flavors. A repeat visit for me for sure.
(4)
Jon M.
Great place! The cpork belly tacos, mac and chesse, and nadaritas are some of the best they have to offer. Perfect for a date night or casual get together.
(5)
Carol J.
The restaurant and location are great, but the food itself at Nada is very mediocre. Nothing was offensively bad, but nothing stood out to me as excellent.
(3)
Ryan B.
I have never had Mexican Fusion...till now. Let me preface by saying I love soft corn shell tacos with meat, hot sauce, cilantro and onions. You will not find this at Nada. What you will get is a great house Margarita with awesome chips Salsa/Guac and adventurous entrees. They keep the bones of a great Taco (as mentioned above) and take you on an adventure of new flavors! The table ordered 6 different kinds of Tacos. You must order the Pork Belly. I have had Pork Belly before, but not as good as Nada. Go for it! The shredded pork (forget the menu name) was also a flavor blast of fun. The decor is modern and trendy, seems like a place to "be seen". In my mind this is a place to eat some Guac, drink some Margaritas and enjoy some very good non-traditional Mexican fare!
(5)
Shivang P.
It was really busy but we were able to be seated outside within minutes. The service was good considering the number of people at the restaurant. Food came out really quickly and was absolutely delicious. Unlike many other Mexican restaurants where chips and salsa are complimentary, they were $2 or $4, but definitely worth every penny. The tacos were phenomenal as well; probably the best tacos I've had at a Mexican restaurant. The tacos seemed slightly overpriced but this is a great place to go!
(4)
Samantha R.
I like Nada, but I don't love Nada. I was the fence about whether it deserves three or four stars and here's why: PROS: Nada is located right in the middle of downtown near the CAC and the Aronoff. They offer quality drinks, margaritas, mojitos, and caipirinhas galore. I love the fresh fruit margaritas, especially the blood orange, and the passion fruit caipirinha. Nada truly shines in the appetizer department. I highly recommend the refreshing citrus-infused ceviche served in a martini glass and the sopes, which are thick corn meal patties topped with shredded short rib, queso fresco, and crema. Yum! Finally, if you like spicy food, order the "creeper," a yellow, creamy corn and chile salsa that will burn the tastebuds off of your tongue. It's not on the menu, so ask for it. Oh, and one more thing, request Pat as your server. He'll brighten your day. :) CONS: Their entrees are overpriced, bland, and altogether disappointing. Period. This is why I barely granted the fourth star and why I only order a series of appetizers when I dine at Nada. Seriously, stick to appetizers and drinks. Your belly and your wallet will thank you.
(4)
Michael H.
Mahi Mahi Tacos were great, the ceviche is awesome, but the lamb stank on ice. Drinks were pricey but that's what you get at a nice place downtown! Atmosphere is really great - especially if you enjoy looking at attractive women. Outdoor seating is great when the weather is right.
(4)
Andrew L.
I'm bumping Nada up to 4 Stars... Went back there on a Sunday morning again, and their brunch is just so good. I don't care that it costs a couple extra bucks. For dinner, I would still just as soon go to one of several delicious mexican joints around town and spend way less. For dinner, I'll give it 3 Stars. But for brunch, it is one of the best options in Cincy...5 Stars. Average it out to 4 stars, overall.
(4)
Stacey L.
Nada is a special occasion place, and boy were we there for a special event! Shout out to Osam and Alyson who announced that they were pregnant with their first child! What a great night! I love the feel of this place. The atmosphere is trendy and cool, but doesn't feel pretentious. Its warm and comfortable. We hadn't planned on eating here and so my husband walked in wearing jeans and a sweatshirt, but no one turned up a nose at all. Food is fantastic! I do feel like most everything on the menu is $1-$2 overpriced. I would love to get to come here more often, but can't because of the expense. Everyone raves about the tacos, which we didn't try, but they did look fantastic. The four of us started with the guacamole, which is AMAZING. But, I feel the chips leave something to be desired. They are a little overly greasy for my taste. We had their seasonal soup, a butternut squash, which was perfect and not too sweet. The apple salad was only mediocre, with too much lettuce and not enough toppings. We shared the chicken and corn enchiladas for dinner... They were good but in the future, I would probably go with the tacos. We had the sangria poached pear for desert, which was filled with cream. YUM! Parking is definitely an issue and expect to walk a couple blocks or valet. The bathrooms are beautiful, but they are very much out of the way in the back of the upstairs. It would be a mad dash if you really had to go! I have been here for happy hour once before. They have good drink and food specials, but it is the shortest happy hour in town, ending a 6pm. I do really love this place and recommend everyone try it at least once, but just feel like everything is just a little more expensive than it should be.
(4)
Kate A.
I used to just "like" Nada because of the amazing guacamole and chicken tacos. However, my feeling of "like" officially turned into "love" when I went with a large group for dinner for a friend's bachelorette party. We showed up to a table decorated in flowers, confetti, candy, and gift bags for each person at the table. We were completely surprised and I was impressed that they would go above and beyond to help us celebrate. To me, half the reason I will say I like a restaurant has to do with the ambiance of the place, and I like the trendy feel of Nada. When I eat there, I can pretend I'm trendy for a moment, so thank you for that, Nada. I make sure to order the guacamole every time I go there because of its deliciousness, and they have a preeeetty tasty white sangria. I've had the taquitos, which were decent, but the chicken tacos are my favorite thing on the menu and are usually my go-to choice. The place is a little pricey for my liking, but definitely worth it for a special occasion, or just when you're feeling like you deserve a little something awesome.
(4)
Dominique B.
Nada may not be what you call 'authentic' Mexican food, but they are hitting the mark on 'upscale' Mexican. Their food is always tasty and the atmosphere is fun. It's a great place for a celebration or special occasion, I think that all of my 5 best friends have celebrated a birthday here. Could be a good date spot, but might be a little loud. It's a little on the pricey side, but worth it every once in a while. The wait is usually pretty long, so it's a good idea to make reservations. Make sure you try the Sangria and Mac & Cheese!
(4)
Samir M.
Take home Carnitas night: Meal: Carnitas tacos, Chicken Enchiladas [Takeout] Takeout took only 20 minutes, the friendly Valet let me park it right on in front of the restaurant, and food was hot and ready. Great, fast downtown pickup. Nellie had the Carnitas, good as always, 3/5 stars for a solid effort. The 'mild' was extra mild and flat, lacking cilantro, and the texture a but mushy. Flavorful tortillas saved the experience, but for $4/taco, it's on the cusp of too expensive for takeout. Note that they did taste better the next day. I had the Chicken Enchiladas. 2/5 stars for saltiness and texture. Again, mushy meat and sweet pasta cornmeal mixture inside three enchiladas that were only about 1.25" in diameter. Good spice and heat level in the mole+red sauce, and very good cilantro, onion, cheese topping. I would not get them again, at $6.33/enchilada, they could have used rice, beans or even a guac salad to break up the salty profile of the filling and sauce. For the money, and the flavor, Taqueria Mercado up the street still wins for tacos and enchiladas, and table sauces. For large plate entrees (chicken, stone pots, etc) and ambiance, Nada still wins... but eat in, half of the bill is for the ambiance and patio dining, might as well get your money's worth.
(3)
Hyatt G.
Refer to other reviews on the snooty hostess staff. The ceviche was bland and fruity. Too much orange juice, no spice at all. Where's the lime? Also, they used the cheapest mariscos (this time shrimp and squid). For $12 use some fish. The waiter explained this as a "peruvian" recipe. Bologna. The shady peruvian place out in Fairfield has better ceviche and for half the price (by weight). Our waiter, Chad was nice, knowledgable, and excited about the food. For future advice Chad, don't say you talked to your boss about comping the chips, salsa, and guac when they were accidentally delivered to our table to begin with. We weren't looking for free shit--you guys just screwed up. We thought they were delivered to our table because our long wait. When you go, go easy on the chips. They fill you up fast. The pork belly tacos rocked! Get them! Super moist meat with a nice crisp crunch served on top of guac and tart pickled onions. The pork belly chunks have nice layer of fat running thru the middle keeping it moist. Perfect! The lamb mole was really good too! Beer/Wine selection was odd. They have an expansive selection of cheapo "mexican" beers. They need to add more beverages that go well with mexican like slightly hoppy beers and pinot noir. Excellent selection of tequilas though.
(3)
Sara W.
The service and atmosphere were great. The pork belly tacos were really really sublime---uncomparable. Someone there cares about flavors.
(4)
Brandon D.
I had been to Nada several time before and always had great service. Last night my Fiance's family was in town to celebrate our engagement, and I made reservations. I screwed up and made the reservations for Sunday night instead of Saturday. Saturday night is always slammed at Nada, and my faux pas made me look like an a-hole. All three receptionist, and the manager worked to accomidate us, and got us a table. They were incredibly friendly and helpful. I only looked like a dumbass instead of an a-hole. Thanks Nada.
(5)
Tim R.
All you need to know about this place is ... GO! Seriously. It was THAT good. The carnitas tacos (spicy) were presented nicely and tasted fabulous. The tortilla soup is very good and the salsa is good too. Tasty margaritas topped off the meal.
(5)
Sekferin S.
Our fourth or fifth time there. Always seems to be some attitude about being seated. Service was good this time. Chips and salsa are the best I've had, love the fresh hot chips. The salsa is not as spicy as it has been in the past. Had veggie tacos and shrimp tacos. Well prepped and tasty. Stay away from the charred green beans, they were dripping in oil and not all that. Very good bar/nuvo mexican place.
(4)
Julie W.
Lovely lunch here; very friendly staff, nice food, quick service. Loved my chicken & chile enchilada - just the right kick.
(4)
betsy b.
I was recently visiting Cincy to see Phish as US Bank arena and checked out yelp before we went. I knew I wanted to try Nada after checking out the menu. It was awesome!!! The carnitas tacos were really good as were the barbacoa. We went there early (before 6 on a Saturday) and there was a very long wait....the hostess instead made a little corner for us in the bar area. It was a little cramped but worked out ok. The chips and salsa were really good, but I hate having to pay for them at mexican resturants. I'd def go back here if I find myself in Cincy again.
(4)
Bartley R.
I went here for dinner with my significant other and a friend before a show. We hadn't been to Nada in a while, and it's always the safe choice (provided you can get in). We've been numerous times (including a particularly fun Cinco de Mayo a few years ago, during which we attempted to work our way through the entire margarita list), and the service and food has always been great. Unfortunately, at this particularly outing, neither were stellar nor did they live up to the experience I've come to expect from this restaurant. After being seated, we ordered some drinks. Two of us ordered the Nadarita (their signature margarita), and they were delivered in an adequate amount of time. I took a substantial sip from mine, and it was terrible. Not only was there no apparently alcohol, but the taste can only be described as "dish water plus butter." Our waiter apologized for the drink, and I exchanged it for a beer (unwilling to risk another buttery cocktail). We ordered some guacamole with chips/salsa, and that was fine (even if the chips were a tad greasy for my tastes). We didn't see our waiter again for quite some time. In the meantime, both tables to either side of us were seated, delivered drinks to, and had their orders taken. We weren't in a huge rush, so this didn't seem like a big deal. After seeing our waiter at one other small table for a while, he finally came to us and took our order after around 15-20 minutes of nothing. There wasn't an apology or "sorry about your wait" comment. We placed our order, and that seemed to go well. One of us ordered the grilled green beans with the meal. When the food was delivered (in an acceptable amount of time after we eventually ordered), the green beens were slightly below room temperature. They tasted great, but they were cold. The restaurant was not overly crowded, but we didn't see our waiter for a while. The rest of the food was great (as I would expect from Nada). When the waiter finally came back, we mentioned the cold green beans. He said he would exchange them, and we didn't see him again until we were finished eating (when he delivered the new green beans). There was no offer to remove the green beans ($4) from the check. Again, there was no mention of the wait required for the side of green beans. The waiter asked how we wanted our checks, and we replied accordingly. The service had been lackluster to that point, and it certainly wasn't what we expect when visiting Nada. When the waiter brought the checks back, he made the snide remark, "Don't worry, you have plenty of time." It's really this last comment, combined with the whole experience before, that caused me to want to write this review. While the waiter knew we were going to the show, he would have no idea if we were going somewhere else before the show. In fact, we were going to an art gallery reception before the show was to begin. His general attitude, poor service, and mediocre drink do not paint a good picture of Nada. We have always enjoyed the experience there, and I am hoping this is not a trend but perhaps one bad waiter. Regardless of the cause, we will certainly take a moment to pause and reconsider our patronage at Nada in the future.
(2)
G. F.
Liked it a lot. Went in on a Saturday night. They were really busy due to the Bengals playoff game. The drinks were strong the food was awesome, the service was better. For a 6 person table our waiter, who also had all of his other tables full up, kept our drinks fresh and always checked in on us at the right time. We got our apps in like 10 minutes, the order was right even when we changed and substituted. Pork Belly tacos!!! I'll be back for sure.
(4)
Andy C.
Finally got a chance to try Nada last night as a celebration for another year of work gone by. I have heard some amazing things about Nada (See other reviews re: Margaritas and fresh tortilla chips) so I was very anxious to get a first hand go at it. Overall, I can't say I was disappointed. We sat on the patio which is open air (obvious) and awesome in the recent 80 degree weather we have been having. Service was friendly though somewhat lacking in promptness (which I forgive given its consistent state of busy-ness). Chips? Yes please...and they do live up to the hype. Fried and crispy, they are fantastic. Salsa? Thumbs up. Guac? Fresh and tasty (...and I am not a guac person). Now I can't quite say the same for the margarita (Nadarita w/ a Grand Marnier kicker)....perhaps too much hype? I found that it was nothing special and because of that...slightly overpriced. But don't get me wrong, it was still a good 'rita but my socks were in no way rocked off. Next was fish tacos. Very good, fresh and tasty. I do recommend. Overall, I had a pleasant experience at my first visit to Nada. Come for the ambiance, stay for the chips and other accoutrements, expect to pay a little more than you would like...but that's part of the experience, right?
(4)
Yan K.
I was quite skeptical going in, but the food is just remarkably good. I'm not too fond of the atmosphere--trying a bit too hard to be hip, slick, and youthful. But the staff were enthusiastic, friendly, and helpful, and the food really is fantastic.
(5)
Ludwig T.
I recently went to Nada with a group of friends. We had reservations, arrived early, and had no trouble being seated. The server came by and took our drink and food orders, and everything came out in a timely manner. I had chicken tacos and a side of frijoles. The food was good, although the drinks were not very well mixed. The difficulties came after we were given our food. Nobody came by to refill our drinks or check on us, and when another server did appear, he started taking plates away so quickly we weren't able to even finish our chips. In addition, the sound system was so loud it was impossible to even hear what the servers were saying, let alone other people in our group. I'm not sure what kind of a vibe they were trying to go for, but if I want to listen to obnoxious repetitive music I would go to a club. When you have to yell at someone two seats away it does not make for a pleasant evening. I got the impression they were trying to push us out to make room for more people but again, after the plates were taken we were left alone with no food, no drinks, and no checks. Eventually our original server came back and we were able to get the checks. I was more than a little irritated that they charged a 20% gratuity for service that consisted of bringing us our food and then disappearing the rest of the night. There was a fire going just outside the door, which would have been a nice touch if it wasn't putting out so much smoke nobody wanted to stand anywhere near it. In conclusion, the food is good (not outstanding), the service is mediocre, and the ambiance leaves much to be desired.
(2)
Dana K.
I ordered the barbacoa tacos and they were soooo good i've been craving them since!
(5)
Levi W.
I have only been here for lunch but it is a great spot. Make sure to call ahead because this place gets packed - especially if you want to sit outside. Very trendy and the food was great. Make sure to grab some guac, chips & salsa to start off the meal and most of the taco selections are pretty good. Enjoy a table outside in the summertime for a good meal and some people watching.
(4)
Angela B.
The quality of my experiences at Nada have been inconsistent. The first time I went was early last spring and the mahi tacos were awesome, I could have ordered seconds. During my most recent trip to Nada, the mahi tacos were soggy and not what I remembered. The guacamole, chips, and salsa were just as good and still overpriced. The passion-fruit caipirinha is great but again overpriced. Nada sits at a great location so it is convenient to grab a bite and or drink before the opera, an arnoff show, or a trip to the art museum. Definitely make a reservation and avoid Nada Friday and Saturdays between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. they are always slammed.
(4)
john m.
Happy hour Mexican mac-n-cheese and sangria -- a Cincinnati treasure -- 'Nuff said.
(5)
Jessica X.
Thank you nada for getting Cincinnatians to think outside the box when it comes to new mexican cuisine. The red sangria is excellente, perfect salsa and chips, and every entree I've had was surprising, yet delicious. The decor is fun and hip, just visit their website (also very fun and hip). It can be very difficult to get seating on friday and saturday nights, especially in the summer when something is going on downtown. Make reservations!
(5)
James K.
I travel to Cincinnati for business quite often and just recently I came across Nada. Nada is a fairly large multi-level Mexican restaurant, with a fun and energetic atmosphere. You'll find employees from Procter and Gamble gathering for after work drinks and other local Cincinnatians having a good time. Since there are so many hotels nearby, there are many business travelers looking for something outside of your typical room service (I fall in this category). The menu was quite extensive and featured both your usual Mexican favorites, as well as Nada's take on the more complex authentic dishes. I ordered the cazuela sampler featuring pork, chicken and lamb. My favorite was the lamb, but they were all quite good. My party also ordered guacamole and a cheese fondue appetizer, but both were just OK. You're probably better off just ordering some chips and salsa and saving some money. So if you're in Cincinnati and you're craving Mexican food, I recommend you try Nada.
(3)
David B.
I was Blown Away. While it's difficult to screw up a taco, it's nearly egregious to pay more than my usual 79, 89, and/or 99 cents for one, but Nada delivers a remunerative experience. I like pork belly and I like tacos so they came out with a pork belly taco...Genius! The service was enteraining fun and professional. Theambience and food were a great blend that appealed to the better part of my lascivious and culinary tendancies.
(4)
Cam B.
Wow. We were welcomed warmly with kids on a Sunday evening. Server was really friendly, made great recommendations and helped kids find something that worked for them. Adults got loosened up with incredible Margaritas Supremos and had Lamb Mole and Carnitas Tacos. Fabulous all around. Location is perfect too, right across the street from the really cool Contemporary Art Museum.
(4)
Serena S.
I liked this place better when it was Bella. I tried Nada for dessert and I had a Flan it was squishy and I didn't like it. Nada does seem like a fun place to drink with friends though if that is what your looking for.
(3)
Chris B.
First, be sure to get the guacamole, which is so fresh and the crispy, tangy chips are soo good! The spicy salsa is nice as well. I got a mushroom taco that was so good, because I'm a vegetarian. I was very happy and it was the perfect lunch size. The beans on the side were a bit much though. Make sure you watch out for the spicy dishes too, because they don't kid you, they're SPICY, but I love that. Even the bathrooms were surprising. The men's room was darkly lit with tvs on the wall. I really liked the whole modern woody interior. It is a great spot to stop for lunch downtown, especially if you want to enjoy the weather on the patio. Excellent, totally!
(5)
Kiki J.
We went for my boyfriend's birthday and got the cazuela sampler with some sangrias. It was a really fun experience! Fun atmosphere too - it doesn't look like any other restaurant in the 'nati. We've been meaning to go back... anyone want to join us?
(4)
Rise G.
The food is good, the sangria is good, the service is good. It is always so crowded so we had to sit at the bar for our dinner, but it worked out great. The bartender was very friendly and accomodating. I love Boca so I knew this place would not disappoint.
(4)
N S.
We were in town visiting and stopped in for lunch. Very casual but food was excellent. Great outdoor seating and a great value.
(5)
M H.
Great Mahi Mahi Tacos on the midday menu. Very reasonable prices. Portion was a bit on the small side. I ordered the chips & salsa; I would go with the guacamole appetizer next time.
(4)
Scott C.
I would give Nada 4.5 Stars if I could! You may have to wait 45 minutes for a table on a Monday evening if you don't make reservations, but the payoff is worth it. Sure, everything might be considered a little overpriced, but aside from the seemingly tasteless salsa (which may be a result of the very taste-full guacamole we ate first), there was not a single thing we consumed that we didn't like. Mojitos. Mango-Chile Margaritas. Fresh Tortilla Chips. Guacamole. Mexican Mac & Cheese (a bit salty, but very cheesy and full of jalapeños for the perfect balance). Mashed Plantains (this was the highlight of the meal! For those of you who know me, I will be trying to recreate this dish in my kitchen!). The ambiance is fun and loud. There is seating inside (on two stories) and outside. And even on a Monday night, it's packed (which is a good sign for a downtown restaurant). We never ordered meals, because the Chips & Guacamole, Mac & Cheese, and Mashed Plantains were plenty. I look forward to eating there again and trying something different!
(4)
Andria A.
The food is great and unique! The guacamole is amazing and the veggie tacos are sooo good! The price is a little high but there is a good amount of food that is worth the price! They also have a good beer selection.....which includes Bohemia, my fav beer to drink with mexican.
(4)
krissy r.
we went here for my friend's birthday. they handled our party of 25 extremely well and the servers were friendly and down to earth. cocktails first, questions later: yummy, fresh and tangy capirinhas. i had the passion fruit and it was delicious. i sipped a friend's regular, and found it equally delectable. for starters: the salsa was so-so. i think cactus pear's endeavor has a much more notable flavor. however, the gucamole was amazing. chunky and a great texture, not mushy like some restaurant gucs tend to be. who can resist: my husband and i shared the sliders (we're big white castle fans, drunk or not), chicken tacos, and taquitos. all were excellent. i also opted for the mashed plantains, which i think is one of my new favorite comfort foods. the only thing i didn't like about them was the scallions on top, but those were easy to eat around. as a general rule, i do not care much for mexican. but nada could change my mind.
(4)
Jason B.
Nada is a downtown dining experience that can't be missed if given the opportunity. Very rarely, if ever, can you dine at such a trendy, upscale, 'it' restaurant for such a reasonable price. Nada really shines for several occasions, the number one being a great place to go with a group before a night out. The fun atmosphere, variety of tapas style entrees (the sliders CAN NOT be missed), and great drinks make for a great way to start your night without leaving too stuffed or too broke. The service has always been spot on in my many experiences and the outdoor dining area is simply incredible on a warm summer evening. The ambiance on the patio almost feels of Miami or some exotic destination with the lights, trees, and furniture. Nada is also a good place to have a drink and small meal or chips and guacamole (the best I have had yet) at the bar by yourself. The couple larger entree plates I have had were very good too, but I don't consider this a fine dining experience as much as a fun, trendy place to be seen with fantastic food and service. If you plan to visit on a weekend or Aronoff show evening, I recommend making reservations WELL in advance or plan to wait a minimum of an hour, although the bar is not a bad place to hang out during. A must visit dining experience.
Excellent tacos and fun ambiance. Guac was the best I've had since moving to Ohio. Only 4 stars because the tacos were a bit salty for me, but they still had great flavor. Make reservations!
(4)
Megan A.
I'll give Nada a solid 4.5 stars. We came here for a mid Saturday afternoon drink and meal and was pleasantly surprised. At around 4pm the place was incredibly full and about a 30 minute wait for a table. They offered us seating at the bar (as it became available) or outdoor seating if we didn't want to wait. They do have two bars; one is as soon as you walk in and then there is an additional bar upstairs. We chose to sit outside as it wasn't too hot if we sat in the shade. The hostess was very helpful and even cleaned off one of the tables so we could be under one of the umbrellas. This place is very trendy and the decor is artsy. I loved how they had the lanterns hanging from tree branches outside and the colorful umbrellas. Now to the food. We both ordered some drinks. I had a local IPA (Cincy, you make some very good local brews) and my friend ordered one of the speciality cocktails (I don't recall what it was), but he enjoyed it. We both split the guacomole and then ordered some tacos. He went with the vegetarian option and I had the salmon with the baja fish fillings. I like fish tacos as long as they aren't fried and unfortunately the waitress explained that Hake does not grill well. No problem though, she recommended the salmon to substitute for it and it was spot on! The service and food here are wonderful. I do think the prices for the tacos are a little steep; however, I understand with the trendiness of this place that it could be expected.
(5)
Bridget S.
I seem to be in the minority by not being impressed with this place. I have given it several chances and each time I am underwhelmed. The food is expensive and the portions are small.
(3)
Sidra M.
I love nada! Their salsas are fantastic. Their cazuela dish is one of my favorites- I recommend getting the egg on top. The margaritas are good and I love the atmosphere here. I have always enjoyed very good service.
(4)
Susan W.
The macaroni and cheese rocks!!
(4)
Laura A.
Went for lunch on a Friday. It was pretty crowded but no wait. The portions were the a good size for lunch and the prices were decent. I had the chicken and corn enchiladas. They were really good I got them without the Diablo sauce as I do not eat spicy food. The patio looked nice but we chose to eat inside due to the heat.
(4)
Robert L.
Nada is a good place for Mexican. It is a little higher end than some other places which means the food is more expensive but it is delicious. While not my first choice for Mexican food in downtown, it is in a convenient location if you want to combine dinner with a show at the Aronoff Center. The times I've been here, the restaurant was a bit noisy making conversation a challenge. I've never been to the happy hour here, so perhaps I will go for that, which may change my overall opinion of Nada.
(3)
Andrea L.
Rediculous!!!!! The French toast is to die for!!! The guacamole is the best I've ever had. Impeccable service. I cannot wait to go back!! Amazing!!! Delicious!!!
(5)
Rian F.
Really great place. Pork belly tacos were phenomenal. Was even able to get them to make flour tortilla chips for me. Will be back for sure!
(4)
Brandi C.
Amazing Mexican food. Server was amazing and suggested wonderful craft beer options. I had the chicken tacos, hubby had Barbacoa tacos. Yum! Must get chips and guac, handmade each day!!!! My second visit here did not disappoint. Great value lunch and brunch menu!!
(5)
Coleen P.
Nada made it on my very short list of favorite restaurants in Cincinnati! I am not a fan of Mexican food, but this place is just amazing! My boyfriend had to practically convince me for 2 weeks to come to this place with him. Just note that it is pretty difficult to get a reservation here on a weekend, so plan ahead! The restaurant is dimly lit, not too fancy but definitely up-scale. Great place for a first date I'd say. The waiter was very friendly and explained to us his favorites on the menu. We ended up ordering the chips and salsa ($2) for our appetizer and the chicken & corn enchilladas ($19) and tinga poblana cazuela ($21) for our main entrees. Man oh man was everything so delicious. The food was rich in flavor with just the right amount of heat. Every bite was so savory and satisfying. I'd definitely recommend these two dishes. It is a little pricey but totally worth it. Best Mexican restaurant in Cincinnati! Will be coming back to try different dishes!
(5)
Brian W.
My take on Nada is... I just don't get it. I've been here a few times now and it's not bad but it's nothing special either. I'm not really sure of the angle they are going for. I know so many people who love it (my better half included) but maybe it's just lost on me. I just don't get highly overpriced Mexican food. Sure the ambiance is nice and the wait staff is always friendly but I'm just not impressed with the food enough to justify the cost. There are other places downtown that are just as nice with better food in this price range. For Mexican restaurants, there are many with way better food for less than 1/2 the cost of Nada. For fantastic "gourmet" Mexican food in a very cool atmosphere, I'll take Bakersfield over Nada any day. Better food, great margaritas, and slightly cheaper than Nada. For just great Mexican food for WAY cheaper there is Cazadores, El Pueblo, El Picante, Rincon, and many others around the city. The last time I visited Nada, my wife had the chicken & corn enchiladas (which I sampled) and I had the pork green chile enchiladas. Neither were bad but were not overly great either. Average food for almost $20/plate. And somehow the Nada-Rita gets rave reviews but the one I got was barely drinkable and I love authentic margaritas. Maybe I just got a bad one this time, it was just overly sour. I will say that the Guacamole and chips were great but really... $7 for quac and chips? The short-rib sopes were very good too and actually worth the price. Nothing overly impressed us on the dessert menu so we went elsewhere to finish our evening. I can think of many better places to spend $80 for a couple to have appetizers, entrees, and a couple drinks. Just my opinion though... your mileage may vary.
(2)
Real D.
The only thing that makes this place special is the decor. Wait is ridiculous and the staff is kind of snooty about it. Real attitude. Well, KMA! Mexican food is not any better than anybody else's in town...actually, it's worse. I ordered the pork chop and it was cooked into a plank. I mean, it was hard, and therefore, tasteless except for the seasoning caked on the top. It was inedible. The rest of our party didn't find their food that much better. Go for a drink because the two story windows and view are extraordinary, but eat somewhere else.
(2)
Kellan C.
Nada was delicious in some aspects, not in others. Let's start with the chips and salsa. I think everyone will agree they were waaayyyy to salty. Almost to hard to eat, honestly. Maybe it was our batch but the chips were way to salty and it was a shame because the salsa was delicious. The only drink I tasted was my girlfriend's pomegranate Margarita. While it was flavorful, it was very sour and I just wasn't feeling it. I ordered the green chili chicken enchiladas. They were decent, but far to much cilantro. And that's a lot coming from me because I love cilantro. The spice kick was good but the cilantro over powered it. The people I went with got the tacos and they were Money. Very good. I will be getting them next time. Tortilla soup was also good. The place is very cool though. Beautiful place to go and sit outside. I really enjoyed that aspect. I will be back and I will get something different and hopefully it will change my mind.
(3)
Hans G.
Wanna try something different? This high end Mexican restaurant is exactly that. The salsa wasn't anything to write home about, but everything else had a great taste. The restaurant has an elegant setting and excellent service.
(3)
Tom K.
Now, I'm from the southwest and I shy away from "places to be seen." I was walking down the street and my fiancee and we were looking for Nada, it was our first weekend in the city. As we walk down the street, I look in a restaurant window and think "Geez, even in Cincinnati there's a place for buff dudes in tight button-downs to hit on glitzed-up gals." Little did I know that it was where we would be having dinner! We knew it was "trendy" but I didn't know that meant it was a borderline club. That was my first impression. By the end of the meal, I had come to think of the place as "alright." The salsa had no spice or heat to it, I ordered a side of jalapenos for my tacos that came without seeds, just shavings. This is shameful to me, but I realize I'm a bit biased and I may enjoy a bit more spice than other people. The taco's themselves were good and filling. The food was well presented and well prepared. It was a nice place. Overall I was a little disappointed with the food, and the atmosphere was not for me, but I can't deny that they made a good drinks. You won't be disappointed, but it's not going to thrill you.
(3)
Eric L.
3.5 Love the ambiance, but the food isn't all that great. Inconsistent across the menu, with some high notes but also some dishes that could use improvement. People will rate this very highly because its "sexy". It is upscale for Cincinnati, and has pretty waitresses, nice design elements and lighting, and that very elegant loungy vibe. The Food: Guacamole: excellent House margarita: take it or leave it (decent for a house magarita, but nothing to write home about) Nada Caesar salad -- Just a caesar salad. I love caesar salad. Very average, would order it again because I'm a sucker for caesar, but hardly worth recomending. Crispy Pork Belly Taco -- GREAT idea, basically 1/2 inch thick bacon cuts nice and smoky, crisp on the outside; downside -- its heavy and a little too salty to eat. Needs some acid to cut the fact and salt, maybe a cabbage slaw dressed with some acid. High quality execution on the bacon chunks (pretty sure its deep fried or torched). Great execution, think more about balance in the flavor elements of the dish, please. Pork green chile cazuela -- Just slow roasted pork. Decently cooked, but again, more effort on dish design -- A pot of pork in broth gets boring quickly. More textural elements and something lighter between pork bites would be good. Very friendly waitstaff, great customer service (doesn't factor into rating)
(3)
Jack R.
Just stopped in here for a quick drink one night. Went in got a good drink at not a bad price with good service. Then set out side on the patio to drink it. It was packed so I take it the food is probably good. So we will have try dinner here sometime.
(4)
Rebecca C.
Great food. Somewhat over priced but great food and outstanding service. Great place for a date night. Make sure you make a reservation. You will not be disappointed!
(5)
Christopher W.
Let's start off by saying that nothing about Nada is Mexican cuisine. It is very Americanized Southwestern/Mexican food. That being said, it is delicious! I have been multiple times and have a couple of favorites. Do yourself a favor and start your dinner off with a margarita. Theirs is the second best in Cincinnati, IMO. Then, put in an order for chips and guacamole. The chips are the best the city has to offered. Double fried and delicious. The tortilla soup is amazing. You also cannot go wrong with any of the salads. I have yet to order anything off of the "iron pot" menu due to the pricing. I will give one of these a try in the future. The fish tacos are on point. Rivals with some of the best I have had in San Diego. My absolute favor item is the pork belly tacos with a side of mashed plantains. I don't know what it is about Cincinnati, but everywhere I have had pork belly it has been very affordable. I guess the city hasn't gotten the notice yet that they can charge more for pork belly than regular pork items. The happy hour menu is also fantastic. The wait staff is great and the overall ambiance is awesome. My only complaint is that the restaurant can feel a bit "stuffy" and pretentious. Must be all of those Cincinnati socialites in after work. All in all, Nada is one of my favorites. Please, do check it out for yourself. Well worth a night out!
(4)
AJ M.
Love grabbing a meal here before a show, and a preverbal favorite downtown.
(4)
Mike C.
After hearing about people in Cincinnati raving about Nada, I finally went for dinner a couple weeks ago. I've been there a couple times for happy hour too, so this will be a combination review of both. I honestly think that when you go to Nada, you're paying for the ambience. It's a very hip place with a very high energy atmosphere, especially at the times when they're busy. The restaurant has a very chic feel, and that's probably why you see a lot of local or out of town celebrities here. Their margaritas are tasty. During happy hour, they have some pretty decent drink specials too. I've had quite a few of the appetizers during happy hour. The sopes is probably the best one on the happy hour menu. The queso was good, but just had too much oil / grease. Their guacamole is also decent, but nothing to write home about. I've been to many other Mexican / Latin-themed restaurants that had things like smoked trout and bacon or blue crab and corn guacamole that was better. Their freshly made chips are really good though. The mexican mac and cheese however, is probably something that you should definitely get. It was a dish that I was very cheesy and spice, which I was actually impressed with. LIke I said, I've only been there once for dinner. The service was excellent, although it did take a while for my water to be refilled (because I was downing it fast because of the spicy mexican mac and cheese). I had the pork belly taco, which was excellent. There was a mixture of crispiness and some fattiness that was paired well with the salsa, guacamole, pickled vegetables, and cilantro. The price here is probably the thing that will prevent me from making this an every day spot. $16 for those three tacos I thought was a little high. I ended up getting those and the mac and cheese together, which made it $24 total. I think the food is high quality, but I really don't think it was really that much better than many other high quality Mexican places I've been to. I think you're pretty much paying for the ambience. Overall, I think Nada is a pretty good restaurant. I just don't think it's worth all the hype.
(4)
Paige M.
Sometimes I like to pretend that this restaurant is named after the character in the Sandman series. Confused? Just ignore my geekish ramblings and read on about the food. Nada is a hip joint in central Downtown serving up small plates of all varieties. I was told this was Mexican food, but this is no heaping plate of gooey cheese and beans. This is a savory work of art. If you desire the former, look elsewhere. I ordered the Barbacoa: three soft tortilla shells stuffed with beef short rib, cilantro, and pickled red onions served gringo style. The meat was very tender; it was moist and fell apart in my mouth. Each bite contained a variety of flavors. Although the portions looked small, especially for the price, I was actually full by the end of the meal. In addition to the Barbacoa, I ordered the corn tamal, which is a moist cornbread wrapped and grilled in a corn husk. Everyone at my table ordered one, so I knew it was destined for greatness. Corn tamal, you did not disappoint! It was one of the tastiest, yet simplest sides I've had. My meal, paired with a refreshing Mojito, made for a wonderful evening out on the patio in the mild summer breeze. Price per person: $20-$25
(4)
Valerie G.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! The food is awesome. Everything that I have tried from the menu has been outstanding and mouthwatering. Go try it. Enough said.
(5)
Tara N.
Nada is delicious, though overpriced. The atmosphere makes me feel like I'm on vacation in a large city, though it's often loud and full of crazy hipsters. Your best bet is to go on a weekday night or for brunch, which might even be more delicious than dinner. You'll probably definitely run into someone you know, so if you aren't looking to do that, go somewhere else. Definitely order the mac & cheese, which will rock your world. The tacos are also a great choice. The chips are homemade, salsa is good, and the guac is amazing. If you're not concerned about the price, the food is definitely awesome.
(4)
Shawna K.
With 140 reviews for Nada, what more is there to add? As you an read, nothing there is bad. Their luscious patio draws you in with potted plants galore the people watching alone will never be a bore The inside is always packed to the gills Everyone must want to eat one of their meals And once you taste your first bite, it's easy to see why The fresh guac and chips are so amazing, you might cry And the iron pot brimming with spicy chilies and tender pork is so delicious, it's hard to remember manners and use your fork And of course service has always been top notch Never having you wait or look at your watch Just remember your wallet, because this food isn't cheap For Mexican fare, it seems a little steep But for this stellar location right downtown I'll hand over my cash, with not even a frown.
(4)
Bruce C.
I have to say this was a great place to dine at. The atmosphere was not what I was expecting, it was better than I ever thought. My meal was simply amazing, having the chicken and corn tortilla, with charred green beans. And before that I had some guacamole with salsa, I love guacamole and their salsa was really good, but it did have a tiny bit of a kick to it. However I could not find it in myself to stop eating it.
(5)
Ben C.
This is a world-class restaurant. Had dinner - beautifully designed and decorated, beautiful crowd as well. Outstanding service - our waiter was friendly without being cloying and his knowledge of ingredients and menu was top notch - I think some of the problems other people have noted is (frankly) because, although Cincinnati is certainly on the upswing, it doesn't have many (any other?) restaurants of this caliber. The place was packed on a Thursday and just as packed when we left. The food was outstanding - from the chips to the deserts. I enjoyed the ceviche - it had a different, more sweet-citrusy taste than most ceviches I've eaten, but I liked it quite a bit. Had the carnitas tacos (ala diabla) which was not spicy to my taste, but the flavors really sang - I did not ask for extra chillies or hot sauce because it tasted so good. The corn tortillas were very fresh and moist. Tried a pork belly taco as well - wow, that was very good too. Our table shared a platter of desserts. Although I was stuffed, I tried a bites of almost everything - delicious. The chef obviously has a palate that tends away from Tex-Mex heat - and towards subtly, but well seasoned food. The food was not bland - and was not searingly hot. Although I really like hot food, I appreciated Nada's cuisine for the excellence in execution and sophistication in flavors. Downstairs you can see the open kitchen (which I always appreciate). Busy people doing a great job.
(5)
Chad E.
Fantastic outdoor dining - Cincinnati's best! Blake is a great server and make sure you get reservations early!
(5)
Mariana P.
I can now officially call myself a Cincinnatan (Cincinnatite?) because I finally took the plunge and accepted a ridiculously late dinner reservation to eat at Nada. It was totally worth it. The indoor hostess and our waiter were both fantastic. I highly recommend the chicken and corn enchiladas..... yum yum. Like other reviews have said, this is not authentic Mexican food, but that doesn't stop it from being extremely tasty. Two things I dislike about Nada: 1- You need to get reservations WELL in advance, or else you end up, as we did, with 9:30. Just a heads up to anyone who wants to eat here. 2- The hostess outside definitely has an attitude. As it was our first time there, we attempted to check in with her. She then promptly sent us inside, and her whole attitude was "Oh no, you don't check in here, you need to go check in and eat inside with the rest of the riff raff." Overall, it was a great experience. I had a lot of fun, and the food was great.
(5)
Arika S.
I don't know if I would go back for the food, but the location and atmosphere were great! Things we tried: Margarita - not the best margarita Mango - Chile Margarita - a little to spicy for my taste Guacamole - Tastes just like your typical guacamole, but I will say that the homemade chips were amazing Mexican Mac and Cheese - This was probably the best thing we had and it was very unique... Definitely recommend this! Ceviche - Surprisingly very good! Pear dessert - DELICIOUS ...definitely recommend The atmosphere and service were great! The portions were small and quite pricey.
(3)
Marc P.
Cool spot!
(4)
kelly k.
I've been to Nada several times, and I'm one of the few people who doesn't think it's absolutely wonderful. It may be because haute Mexican is not one of my favorite cuisines. This place gets a lot of hype, and some of it is well deserved. So if you've never been to Nada, you should try it to see for yourself. I'll start with the Positives: Very good food, excellent quality, nice presentation, trendy/hip atmosphere, great downtown location. Best guacamole around. Downside: Portions are rather small for the price. Drinks are overpriced. In sum, the reasons I only give it 3 stars are because I don't love Mexican, and it's a bit pricey. I'd go back with a group on a special occasion. And I'd order the guacamole.
(3)
Judy C.
The guacamole seemed fresher than when I make it myself! So awesome! Service was a little slow on Saturday night, but we were in no hurry, so it was fun. Great atmosphere... made a good impression on my friends visiting from out of town!
(5)
Maria G.
Is it pricey? Yep. Is it crowded? Yep. Is it worth the hype? ABSOLUTELY. Nada is one of my favorite fancy pants dining destination. It's not where I'd go for any old celebration, but when fancy pants are a requirements (say, a birthday or anniversary) this is the place to go. Don't get me wrong-you don't have to wear a suit or dress to feel comfortable here. Dark jeans and a nicer shirt will do just fine. The dress here ranges from jeans to cocktail dresses, and everything in between. The drinks are pretty good, if a bit pricey. The house margarita is $7, and it's okay. I prefer the cheaper ones at Taqueria myself. I adore the sangria though-red, white, or sparkling and full of fruit. Mmm, so refreshing on a hot summer day. The food. My oh my the food. Nada is the first place I tried pork belly. My god do I love pork belly. The pork belly tacos are served with peppers and onions, and are crispy and juicy and so wrong for you to eat. Which means they are tasty business. Heart-stoppingly tasty business. The barbacoa tacos are also very good, and are my go-to if I'm pretending to be kind of maybe healthy. I had dessert there for the first time last night, a flourless chocolate thing, and it was decadent and delicious. I'm glad I split it with someone, as it was pretty rich. OH! The guacamole and chips, almost forgot! Great appetizer. I think it's a little more expensive than it needs to be, but their house made guacamole is worth the extra bucks. It's a great way to start your meal. My only complaints? The staff can seem a bit too cool for school. Every once in awhile you get someone who seems...aloof. I don't need hugs and hand holding, but it's nice to not feel like we might be interrupting your evening. Also, it can be warm on the first floor, especially near the kitchen. While it's fun to see food being made, it's less fun when you realize you're sweating. I love Nada, and can't wait to try their brunch. With how good their lunch/dinner menu is, I'm sure it will be amazing. This is definitely a place in town to check out if you haven't been.
(4)
Jeff P.
The server we had provided poor service. He wouldn't even look at us which made getting his attention more difficult. Food is fair, definite upscale prices though. The ambiance is nice, great date place for cocktails before the theater but not good for a first date diner, the food and service will only paint a negative picture to the date. Very limited brunch menu. If you are on a low carb diet, you'll be hungry.
(2)
Josh M.
Good choice when in Cin. Fun night time atmosphere.
(3)
Brieanne S.
I like to think of myself as a "foodie." I love food, but I don't love making it myself. This being said, I don't have a very extensive "food" vocabulary. So, I find it very intimidating when I have a waiter spouts off a 10 minute speech about certain entrees. Whilst I appreciate your entusiam about your job-SLOW DOWN! The food we had was great-not wonderful, just great. We had a sample of 4 different kinds of tacos (I blame my indecisiveness for this). Each one was good in its own way. None of them even remotely resembled the others. The drinks we had were also very well prepared. Overall we had a great experience here. We made reservations ahead of time and also went on a Sunday afternoon when the Bengals were playing away, so downtown was less than exciting. Would I wait 2 hours for a table, probably not. It was a good meal and we left full but it was a little on the pricey side and as far as I know, they don't offer coupons.
(4)
Sarah F.
I've eaten both lunch and dinner at Nada and found both to be enjoyable experiences. Trying to describe the culinary genre at Nada is somewhat complicated because "upscale, authentic Mexican" sounds a bit pretentious, but that's the best I've come up with so far, so there you go. If you want to start with the usual chips & salsa, it'll be $2 but the salsa is really good. The chips are definitely not Tostitos--more like thick, deep fried tortilla triangles; a bit greasy, but good. I've gotten the soft tacos both times--once chicken and once mahi-mahi. IIt's a simple, but very tasty dish (also deceptively filling). Note for the vegetarians/pescatarians out there: the bean side dish that comes with the tacos is not vegetarian unless you order the vegetarian tacos or specifically request it! The usual one (frijoles charros) has bacon in it, but the vegetarian option is black beans over rice, which is quite tasty. Service tends to be above average, but not flawless. On my last visit, although the server was generally attentive, he abandoned us for a long time immediately after our order was delivered and forgot to bring my friend her requested sweetener. Aside from that slight glitch, everything else was fine. Ambiance is great both inside and the patio in warm weather. Reservations used to be essential, but after being open for a while, you could probably get a table without too much trouble as long as it's not a peak night/time.
I've been twice, both times at someone else's request. I love the atmosphere and the service is great, but I honestly am no totally wowed by the food. It's the kind of place where the focus seems to be more on being trendy than producing a great flavor experience. That's fine and all, I enjoyed going, and I wouldn't turn it down if someone suggested it (especially if they were paying), but I wouldn't make Nada my first choice. That said, the ceviche is honestly amazing. Everything I've had there is fine, though underwhelming, but the ceviche has this squid in it that is to die for.
(3)
Doug W.
This is one of the few restaurants in Cincinnati that makes me damn proud to say, "that's right, this is my hometown." Nada is the epitome of class, style, and the most amazing "Mexican" food. Here is why this place is so awesome and my favorite place in all of Cincinnati. 1. Service: from the hostesses to the waiters to even the GM who recognizes me, this place seeks to provide best-in-class service as soon as you even get near the door. They recognize their repeat customers and take care of them which has led to my extreme loyalty. Be sure to make a reservation though no matter what day or time. Lately, you can't get a table at lunch for a party of 2+ without a reservation. It's that good! 2. Cocktails: the margaritas and sangria are good but the hidden jewel is the caipirinha, the native drink of Brazil made with cachaca (pronounced ka-shassa) or sugar cane rum, sugar, and lime. Just ask your waiter to explain it or anything else on the menu. Their intimate knowledge of the entire menu will blow you away. 3. The Tacos! All of them are top notch. My favorites are the carnitas and the baja style fish tacos. I prefer the fried but they also serve a grilled version which are legit. Having lived in San Diego for a number of year, these are the best fish tacos outside of SoCal that I have found. Lunch portion is 2 + a side salad and dinner portion is 3 tacos. 4. The Salads and Appetizers: from the mac-n-cheese to the sliders to the ensalada mixto, these are the best in town. 5. Corn and Chicken Enchiladas: a very filling dish a 3 enchiladas that will leave your tummy feeling warm and very full. This is my favorite dish in the wintertime before heading into a show at the Aranoff. 6. Finally, the location! We eat here before EVERY show at the Aranoff and they are great at seating us quickly and serving us at the pace we request. One time, it was going to be a faster dinner than normal so I jokingly placed my order when making the reservation to prove that I was a regular and the drinks were waiting at the table for us when we sat down. Yes, they are that good. Whether you are coming for lunch, dinner, drinks with friends, or a fun night out, sit back and prepare to have a great experience with amazing food and top notch service. And have a caipirinha for me.
(5)
Andrew D.
The poblano mac 'n cheese gets seemingly better every single time I have it. I always feel under-attractive when I eat here, though. I like being surrounded by purdy women, just not while eating pork belly tacos. For that they shall receive one less star(it is, after all, their fault for creating a popular Downtown restaurant that attracts these kind of women).
(4)
Jenny H.
Their tacos are amazing- I got their fish as well as pork belly, their pork belly was like nothing I've ever had- so soft and crispy (you would think it would be hard and tough), eating 1 or 2 is enough, but glad they give you 3!! Guacamole is good, not the best. Their mac and cheese appetizer was pretty good too, with good Mexican cheese (could have been a little more al dente). The ambience was excellent, great people and scene, and plating was great. You should definitely eat here if you live here or are in Cincinnati!
(4)
Jocelyn V.
Went to Nada for my college roommate's bachelorette dinner on Saturday night. We started out with guacamole and salsa, which were both delicious. The guac was fresh and the flavors were great. The homemade chips were crispy and not too greasy. For dinner I ordered the barbacoa tacos and charred green beans. The tacos were excellent, although I kind of wished there was cheese on them because I love cheese. The tacos were full of meat, though and the pickled onions were really good. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the charred green beans were quite spicy. They were cooked perfectly, crispy and not all wilty. I had the Nadarita margarita, which was delicious. We had a reservation and were put in an upstairs room that had curtains we could close (and did to have a mini dance party). The atmosphere was great and our server was fantastic. Excellent food at a totally reasonable price point? I'll definitely go back next time I'm in Cincy.
(4)
Theresa C.
Must try in Cincinnati, OH! Love the pork belly tacos! So I cam here twice - once for happy hour and once to get actual dinner. The happy hour was pretty decent food. Had some sliders, chips/salsa, and guac. We were upstairs for the happy hour and I really like the setting/view. The food we got tasted pretty decent. Not a bad place to go if you want to get happy hour food. Later, I came back again for dinner. This time I ordered the pork belly taco. If you look at their list, they have a variety of differen/unique tacos. Defintely try pork belly taco if you haven't before. The pork belly had a good mix of fatty and lean meat. The sauce they used soaked into the meat and gave it a sweet flavor which I really liked. Meat lovers?! Give it a try!
(4)
Jen M.
Excellent food! I had the pork belly tacos which were delicious, melted in your mouth, and perfectly balanced. I can't wait til i'm back in this area to go back!
(5)
Nikki M.
I really want to like Nada. The food's great the margaritas are great. There are lots of great options for omnivores, like myself, to boot. It's a swanky spot to see and be seen. But my last couple of visits have really turned me off because the host staff has an unforgivable attitude. This place is notorious for hiring staff who are supermodel material only. But they treat their customers the same. If you're not decked out in the latest and greatest, be prepared to be treated like a second class customer, seated in an empty restaurant (at 11am sharp) on the second floor as far back as they can seat you, and told you have a time limit with your table. I never realized jeans and chuck taylors were so fashionably offensive! The food's great... but they won't be getting my business anytime soon. Nor will Boca, or any other project from this restaurant group.
(2)
Josh G.
Food- I had the Crispy Pork Belly Tacos! OMG! Sheer, unadulterated, orgasm of the mouith! It sounds gross, but it SO is NOT gross; it's heavenly. Juicy, crispy, moist, yumminess. 411: Gluten Free- For my GF friends, they have options for you! I'm not GF, but my date was. They have GF chips and salsa available upon request. They did have to ask if they still had some for the night, so maybe call ahead if you want that option to ensure they have it. They were yummt. Seating- They had outdoor seating, and that is what I preferred. It was perfect weather, and the ambiance was great. They do pack people in very closely, so that part sucked, but all in all, I couldn't complain. Drinks- We had the mojitos. They were ok. Service- Great! Next time I visit, I WILL BE EATING HERE.
(5)
Zia S.
First time visiting and we will definitely be making this a regular spot. We arrived around 530 and were seated upstairs, which was ok, but we were the only ones there. As an appetizer we went for the chips and salsa and the chips were the BEST I've ever had...and I'm not a chip fan. Oyster shooters were also excellent. We all wanted more! My boyfriend and I split the grilled red fish tacos and the yucatan chicken. His mon had the vegetarian tacos and his dad got the fried pork belly tacos. Our waiter was very knowledgable and helpful while we were deciding and we didn't have to wait long for our food. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Autumn E.
Nada must be a downtown staple. My fiancee, right stfer proposing on a romantic carriage ride around the city had our driver drop us off at Nada. The decor is sleek and modern, modern art on the walls, beautifully clean,. The hostess led us up a grand staircase, much to my relief, I was looking forward to seeing the upstairs. We were seated by the window and started with guacamole and chips, which I am used to be complimentary, but, oh my, the guacamole is probably the best I have ever had, chunky and flavor ful, served with a spicy but lightly sweet salsa, the perfect compliment. The chips were obviously homemade and delicious, crispy and perfectly salted. I ordered the chicken and corn enchiladas, my fiancee, the steak fajitas. The enchiladas were amazing, just as our server said, the perfect balance of chicken black beans and sweet corn with a spicy red sauce and the perfect amount of sour cream. My fiancee raved over his tender and juicy fajitas and perfectly cooked fixings. Our glasses were never less than half full, attentive without being annoying. The price although was a little high than I was used to was worth every single penny. Although we did not order drinks they had a long and interesting list of margaritas, wines, and beers. I wish we had had room for dessert, although their portions are perfect, just enough to give you a pleasantly full belly. Go to Nada, check it out, it's so very worth it. Go now!
(5)
Jarrod And Heather D.
Wow Fabulous place! My boyfriend and I thought the service was good, the decor was inviting (outside patio is awesome). They seem to have put alot of detail and thought into their dishes. We had the queso fondido, guac, pork belly tacos, and a salad.....All were delicious. We will def go back again:) My boyfriend thought it was one of the best mexican restaurants (this means alot considering his friends call him Pablo..lol)
(5)
Jennifer S.
Best chicken tacos I've ever had! Me and my girlfriends went for lunch. Was busy, but that's a good thing!
(5)
Jacob Y.
On a cold rainy night, during a business trip to Cincinnati, and after a long day of meetings, I ended up back at my hotel, craving for a good dinner. So I figured I was going to walk up the street, considering I was downtown, to see if there was anything on sight as far as restaurant is concerned. When I exited the hotel and walked about two blocks, I was getting a little concerned...downtown was COMPLETELY dead. Until I got to Walnut Street by the theater district, and saw this restaurant. Soaking wet, I stepped in, and thankfully, it was not overly crowded. The decor of this place by the way...very classy and modern. Instead of sitting in a table by myself, I opted to sit at the bar, where the bartenders inquired what I wanted to drink. Now, noticing that this was a Latin style restaurant, I opted for a mojito (LOVE THEM!). After I got served my first drink (which was quite good for the midwest!), I ordered the ceviche for appetizer and tacos. Ceviche, good. Tacos...excellent. And the presentation of both dishes...very pleasing to the eye. The service was also very good. The bartenders were very expedient with my orders and drinks. Who would have thunk there was a good Latin restaurant smack middle of downtown Cinci!
(4)
Aaron J.
Every time I'm in Cinci I try to make it to Nada. I'm from out of town, but I get the impression this is one of the TBS restaurants downtown. *Great homemade tortilla chips that are crazy addictive *Savory Carnitas taco's that will make you want to come back tomorrow Check out the pictures people have posted... How can you not check this place out or want to go back? Give it a shot and enjoy!
(5)
Emily H.
Nada is one of my favorite restaurants in Cincinnati. Hands down. I'm not sure the exact reasons why, I think it's just the combination of everything. I went there last night with one of my girlfriends. I had a gift card that I was saving for a somewhat special occasion but then decided to use it anyway because I deserve it ;) Having a gift card is definitely nice because you don't have to think quite as much about how much you're spending. That is the one downside of Nada, it can be a little pricey for what you get. BUT, the food is awesome. I think 2 of the main reasons I love it are for the sangria and chips and guacamole. I am a huge fan of both things and Nada's are excellent. I don't even care that I'm full of chips by the time my main entree comes because I just love them that much. On that note, they have a great happy hour. I used to work very close by and would always try to convince my co-workers to go there. The sangria and chips are half price so it's a great deal! More reasons why I love Nada: the atmosphere is fun, the people are really nice, and all the other food is fabulous. I had the spicy beef tacos and they were superb. I've also had their butternut squash soup and gazpacho. The gazpacho was seasonal so if you see it on their menu I suggest snatching it up! All in all, it's a fun night out with great food. Reservations are a definite plus.
(5)
Mike D.
Nada is an upscale mexican/tex-mex restaurant right in the middle of the expanding (finally!) arts/restaurant district in downtown cincinnati. the decor is cool, modern architecture with vibrant mexican themed art pieces on the walls. there is a bustling lounge area on the first floor and a quieter dining area upstairs, all with cool views of the CAC and patio outside. the service was great, from the friendly and accommodating hostesses, genial bartender to the hustling waiter and busboy. the food was fantastic. we had a party of 6 and we all shared bites from each others' dishes, and pretty much everything tasted fresh and delicious. the pork belly tacos are nigh indescribable (but i'll try), with a lightly crunchy exterior and a melt-in-yo-mouf, almost fluffy interior. so good. one of the best things i've ever eaten. the corn and chicken enchiladas were rich and flavorful. The ceviche was fresh and citrusy. the poblano mac and cheese was bursting with flavor and contrast in texture with the breadcrumbs on top. some of the downsides: as always, the chips were great, but could stand to have a little more salt on them. the guacamole is kind of meh. the margarita was a little light in the tequila department. maybe thats why all the girls like them (or maybe i'm just a raging lush?). and the scene can be a little downtown douche-y if you go on a weekend night. go sunday through thursday if you're allergic to yuppies (my tourrette's really flares up when i'm around them) but if it gets too out of hand, you can disappear into the bathroom and watch three amigos on one of the tvs. Theres no sound, but if you're like me you already know all the words, so you can just quote the whole thing. What is this? Gringos falling from the sky?! Yes, El Guapo!
(5)
Jesse F.
I'm usually not a fan of trendy places. If it's a must-see venue "THE HOT SPOT" I'll probably just pass it by. Nada, despite its trendiness, is worth checking out though. The location they have is amazing, and the layout of the restaurant itself is pretty cool. I've never been disappointed, per se, by any meal, but the food could have kicked it up a notch. The drinks are very well made and you can expect to find some exotic specialties you won't find many other places. However, this is a place to see and be seen. If you're looking to party in the downtown business district, Nada is probably the place you should start your night.
(3)
Rex I.
Great fish tacos! Nice place.
(4)
Debbie M.
NADA is located in the coveted presence of The Aronoff Center rendering it the perfect stop before or after a night at the opera, ballet, or theater. The menu is abundant with Mexican standards done with more than a few tasty twists. We love fish tacos but the shrimp tacos are hard to resist. The servers are friendly, menu knowledgeable , and just the right amount of attentiveness. I will say the noise level is excessive. If you need to take it down a notch request to sit upstairs. My favorite thing: the ceviche appetizer. Try it!
(3)
Brad K.
Nada is definitely worth the adventure particularly if you're not looking for anything too heavy. The seats are right on top of each other and the music is just loud enough that your conversations all blend into each other. But. The wait staff was on top of things. We sat at the upstairs bar for 45 minutes (we arrived early -- we were actually seated one minute before our reservation...so kudos for that!) and hung out. It seemed much quieter upstairs. When we were seated, our waiter did a nice job attending to us without being overly in our space. And the food was pretty good. (We had the fish and vegetarian tacos.) A word of warning: the chips and salsa are good. It's easy to fill up on them. Don't. Do. It. All in all we had a good time. It was a bit too loud and we were a bit too on top of our neighbors, but otherwise, it was a great good time.
(4)
Richard Z.
After eating at Nada twice and being disappointed twice I have decided to share my experiences on Yelp. Atmosphere: The atmosphere and restaurant itself are Nada's saving grace. Visiting in the summer offered a relax feel with the sights and sounds of downtown Cincinnati. My winter visit included sitting by the fire pit before I was seated, and having dinner on the second floor of Nada. In addition to these things, Nada also has an excellent location. The restaurant is just north of Fountain Square, next to the Arnoff. Food and Drinks: First I will list the food I have ordered: chips and salsa, Nada sliders, chicken tacos, and a Nadarita. First, the chips are great for the price, only two dollars! However the salsa looked flavorful but ended up being very bland. The Nada sliders looked great when they came out and tasted good too. Unfortunately they made me sick to my stomach for the rest of the night. The chicken tacos hooked me on the menu being served with guacamole and "Chihuahua Cheese". When the dish came out I was disappointed to find that there was a scanty amount of guacamole, and that the special chihuahua cheese was nothing more than Kraft shredded monterey jack cheese. The taste of the chicken tacos was identical to the food I have had at both Don Pablos and Chiles.... only for twice the price. Lastly, the Nadarita which I had heard nothing but great things about. Obviously these are made with Nada's own margarita mix which has real fruit juice and not much sugar. There was plenty of alcohol in the Nadarita and it was hidden well, that is one of the few positive things I can say for it. Service: The service here leaves something to be desired. On both of my visits the service was somewhat slow even though each waiter/waitress only seemed to have two or three tables. The server I most recently had came off as be snooty and pretentious, the first thing she asked our table was, "Have you had a chance to look through our drink literature?" What?? Price: For the price paid the quality of the food was up to par. However, in my experience I didn't feel that the TASTE of the food matched what I was getting for the price. For that reason I won't be going to Nada again. I feel like there are many better options around Fountain Square.
(2)
Samantha B.
Lovely ambiance, beautiful staff, delicious food, adorable heated patio, and much much more! My girlfriend and I spent a weekend in the area and wanted to try Nada as soon as we spotted it. The wait times on a Saturday night were pretty long, but the patio was first come first serve and since it was heated we sat outside. It was a gorgeous night, and it is such a cute patio. Oh my goodness, the food! The food is the bomb dot com. I got the grilled redfish tacos, my girlfriend got the crispy pork belly, and we shared some guac, queso dip, and Mexican mac n cheese. Everything was perfect. The pork belly was the most delicious pork I have ever tasted! Everything had great flavor. Drinks are somewhat expensive, but worth it in the end. I had the mango-chile margarita, could have used more heat, but it was still very yummy. Dessert! The sangria poached pear is unique and delectable. However, the warm chocolate tart is life changing. Banana fosters gelato!!!!!! Say what???!?!?! I would highly recommend Nada to friends, family, and strangers. It is a little expensive, but well worth it! Hope this review helps you with your choice!
(5)
Doug S.
If it wasn't for the mac & cheese, I'd give it 2 stars... The food is good, don't get me wrong: Chips & Salsa - really good, not your cookie-cutter chips, these look and taste like homemade Mac & Cheese - excellent! very savory, great depth of flavor. Pork Belly Tacos - not near as good as waiter promised, but I think they were probably overcooked (not sure b/c I'd never had "pork belly" before) Mahi Mahi Tacos - good, not great But, bottom line, this place is way overpriced. You are paying for atmosphere, which is nice here, but not worthy of the food above plus 2 drinks being an $80 meal. It's good, but it's not that good.
(3)
James Michael S.
I was really impressed with Nada. I didn't think Cincy could deliver such wholesome Mexican but I was wrong! Get the grilled chicken tacos, they're 5 star quality.
(5)
Dan M.
Just as a disclaimer, this isn't really authentic Mexican food - but that doesn't mean it's not good - because it is. I've been once for dinner. Everything looked & tasted great. Then, the other day, I went with a friend on Sunday for lunch. It turned out that they were having their first ever brunch. I'm not really one for breakfast food, so I was a little disappointed about this. We each ordered a menu item and swapped them halfway through. They were both excellent. In my opinion, this place ranks amongst the best in Cincinnati for taste and menu. Bottom Line: I'll definitely be back with friends - for dinner, lunch or brunch.
(5)
David B.
We visited Nada while in Cincinnati over the holidays. The food and drinks were as good or better than anything we have found in the Bay Area. The staff were all very friendly and helpful as well. We loved it!
(5)
Miss J.
This place is awesome! It's so nice when you walk in, they have a really neat spiral staircase and the bathrooms have tvs in them which is neat. We had the Mexican mac n cheese for an appetizer which was so creamy and cheesy, left me wanting more! I had the chicken corn enchiladas for my meal. They were so good! I would definitely recommend it if you like chicken. The staff was excellent, on point. The prices are just a little bit high, but with that service and quality of food it is so worth it!
(5)
Derek C.
If I could have done a three and a half, I would have. I enjoyed my lunch at Nada but felt it was not worth the price that you pay. To the eye, Nada is gorgeous, with a clean, contemporary interior featuring lots of natural orange hues. As I noted, I went for lunch, and I was surprised at the tiny menu. It was about half the width of a sheet of legal paper and the choices were fairly limited. However, I did not have an issue with this as I had checked their menu at their very nice website before choosing them for lunch. I began with the chicken taquitos. These were excellent with a crispy shell sitting in a generous helping of tomatillo sauce. The sauce gave a great flavor to the appetizer. For my entree, I had the chicken tacos. The chicken was prepared just right with generous amounts of cheese and diced tomatoes (or maybe it was pico). The flavor was not your typical Mexican restaurant fair but quite agreeable. My biggest complaint, and what kept me from going for four stars, was that there was nothing really special about the dishes. They were excellent but for a $30 lunch, it should either be the best Mexican I have ever had or it should be a very unique dish unlike anything else I have tasted. Unfortunately, my lunch was neither. I would probably go back to Nada but only if I were on a travel expense account. For my personal dollar, I am not sure I am getting "bang for my buck" when there are numerous other places in or near downtown Cincinnati that can offer so much more for the a similar price.
(3)
Kevin O.
Came for the homemade chips, stayed for the delicious carnitas. If you are looking for a trendy dinner setting, Nada won't disappoint. With an lively atmosphere mixed with unique artwork and a two-story floor-plan this restaurant has a lot to offer for a fun night out. So far I have been to this place once on a late Saturday night. Plan for a reservation and try to steal a spot in the bar for the wait, since it is almost always packed The food is very good, if not slightly on the expensive side. I knew what to expect going in, but just be aware that a meal for to will probably set you back 50-60 dollars with a bit extra on top for parking. My meal started with their homemade chips and salsa with guacamole on the side. The chips were awesome to say the least. Flaky multi-layered fried goodness sprinkled with salt and ready to crumble apart in your mouth. Did I mention I loved them? My main course was the carnitas with braised pork. The dish was served with three tacos overlapping each other with the filling carefully spread across the bunch. The shells were a mixture of soft and mildly crispy, following the same multi-layered look of their chips. Starting right to left I had those three tacos finished before I knew what hit me... very addicting. All in all the Nada experience was very enjoyable, with excellent wait-staff, and a friendly atmosphere. Now if the question you might ask is when will I return... my budget will probably leave it as a "once in a while" dinner event.
(4)
Denise Y.
Pretty pleasant experience, I'm giving Nada 4 stars especially for the way they handled a big party in a small restaurant. I came with 11 other people and were seated 5 minutes past reservation time which was on time in my book. Our waiter was really helpful, energetic, and great at giving some pointers on the menu. After we sat, we got generous portions of chips, salsa, and guacamole. The guacamole had cucumber, jicama, and radish slices on the side which was a really nice complement. It was a little too citrusy for my taste but still good. I ordered the barbacoa tacos which are three well portioned tacos. BUT the meat looked like it was piped out from a pastry bag and since it was spicy shredded beef, then well you know, it didn't look so appetizing. Once I got past it, the taco was pretty good. I traded one of my barbacoa for a shrimp taco and it was good as well, well seasoned and cooked shrimp with mixed greens and avocado. My table had a round of supreme margaritas, good but also quite expensive ($14?! 12 people?!). The drinks in general are expensive and because the whole table had a round of margaritas we got tequila shots at a discount. Our waiter was awesome at helping us with this.
(4)
Luke S.
Pork Belly tacos take it to a whole new level. Be sure to add the fried eggs to each of the tacos! It's like breakfast and dinner all in one. Yet to boot, the Mojito was subtle and tasty.
(5)
Jill R.
a haiku to nada: please come to portland man i do love this restaurant jelly of cinci
(5)
Diva D.
One of the best mexicAn restaurants in the country. The veggie tacos are unbeleivably good.
(5)
Kris L.
I went to Nada for lunch because of the Yelp reviews. It is right downtown near the contemporary art museaum, galleries, restaurants and the theater. It is a cool contemporary spot with a large bar area and several dining areas inside and out. The afternoon menu (not lunch, not dinner) has appetizers and a choice of three taco plates mahi mahi, barbacoa which was short rib and chicken. Definitely start with their chips and salsa as the chips are made fresh and are light and airy and the salsa is a deep red rich roasted tomato salsa with the right touch of citrus and sweetness. I had two of the short rib tacos (dinner menu is 3) and they came on fresh masa tortillas that were grilled to order with very rich tomato and vinagery short rib that was perfect with just a squeeze of lime on top and pickled onions. I checked out the dinner menu and they added 3 braised dishes, chicken, pork and lamb which you could get as a trio and also more tacos including crispy pork belly which all looked good. All in all a hip fun spot in downtown Cincinnati with rich delicious Mexican food.
(3)
Mike M.
i really like nada. as pretentious as it can be, and as long as you may have to wait (hence the 4 stars), it is really good food. the queso fundido will rock you. carnitas tacos destroy my face. careful not to load up on the super awesome chips though, because you will never finish your super awesome meal. one last thing - the pours on the drinks are outta sight. be sure you walk and not drive here:).
(4)
Brad B.
Great Spanish food for downtown. Great date spot but bring your wallet.
(3)
Audrey L.
I've been here twice, and both times I've felt super elite and special. I'm not sure if it is the hip decor or the fact that it's always packed, but I love it! This is a place to be seen- actually a restaurant where you WILL feel out of place if you don't dress up (at least for dinner). There's hardly any of those anymore! And although it doesn't really say, Nada is upscale/modern Mexican. The head chef, David Falk, is also the chef at Boca in Oakley, so you know you are in for a treat! Be prepared for a longer wait unless you have reservations.... and you should even make those several days in advance. If you're a last minute person (like me), during your wait, you can sit at the bar and have a drink or two. I've tried the sparkling sangria, nada-rita, and the pink grapefruit margarita. I'd have to say the sparkling sangria was my favorite: fruity with a little fuzz. The margaritas somehow tasted oddly salty to me, and I didn't even drink out the the salt rimmed side of the glass! Both times I've gotten tacos for dinner. Most recently I tried the vegetarian tacos, and before I tried the shrimp tacos. Three tacos per entree, and if you go with a group, it might be fun to share. That's what my friends and I did! The vegetarian tacos were very tasty and were made complete with guac, portabella mushrooms, black beans, cheese, and pico de gallo. Who said vegetarian foods aren't filling has obviously never ate a whole plate of these! I could only scarf down 2. I do have to say though, the shrimp tacos are still my favorite. Warm tacos with fresh cooked shrimp, corn, and greens dressed with creamy lime dressing. Mmmm- they are so good! I loved the greens with the shrimp! There is a perfect amount of bite to them too, so don't worry about your nose awkwardly running while you're trying to enjoy your food! Enjoy the patio during the summer- it is awesome! They have fun lanterns on the trees and plenty of plants to make it feel enclosed although you are sitting out on the sidewalk. I will absolutely be back.... mahi mahi tacos and a mojito- you're next on my list!
(5)
Margie C.
Great atmosphere, Friendly staff and simple but good food. Nice place to go on a date or out with friends. Reasonably priced. Fairly loud. Valet parking available and next to theatre. Shrimp tacos were fabulous:)
(3)
A B.
I was in town for a short business trip and our team dinner was @ Nada. Having never been to downtown Cincinnati before, I was pleased to dine at this restaurant. The decor was pretty modern and the atmosphere was fun! The chips they serve taste like a cross between a tortilla and those fried crackers often served at Chinese restaurants. They were good but a little heavy to eat more than a handful. Salsa was fresh and guac was awesome. Their portions are smaller than you would expect but I wouldn't say that's a negative considering how full you can get from Mexican food. Overall, a pleasant dining experience and if Nada were close to home - I would like pay a return visit!
(3)
Dawn E.
I was recently in Cincinnati for job training and we needed a place for dinner downtown near our hotels. I want to tell everyone to test out this place. It is going down in the books for sure. We had a party of 7 and made a reservation, which wasn't needed anyways for a Sunday night (it wasn't busy). Our party ordered one of everything I believe and everyone was satisfied. The drinks were great, as well, that after our meal we moved into the bar area to have a couple more drinks.
(5)
Angel S.
I'm really torn on this one... REASONS TO GO: The interior is very modern with Spanish flair, has a lot of accents with a large spiral(ish) staircase, cool tiles and 300 lbs of chips stacked on the back bar as some of the decor. The shrimp tacos were perfectly spiced and had just enough sauce to keep moisten the tortilla, but not too much where it ends up on the front of your shirt. There are some really cute male servers. REASONS TO STAY AWAY: Seems to be a bachelorette party hot spot, there were 2 bachelorette parties (complete with penis straws) when we were there...annoying! I found a hair in the salsa, no matter how good the food was, that is the only thing I will probably remember long term.
(3)
Leib L.
Terrific service and attitude. (thanks Anthony!) Fantastic cazuelas, guacamole and drinks. Try iron pot sampler (get the egg on top!) for a fabulous treat!
(5)
Kristopher L.
The atmosphere was extremely laid back and upscale, I took a date we both enjoyed the salsa &chips with good conversation. The hostess & waiters were all a delight, very insightful when it came to ordering & being served.... I ordered the lamb mole with buttermilk squash, IT WAS DELICIOUS seasoned very nice, with chek peas, and tortillas to go along. Overall I was very satisfied with the oar of the restaurant, and will be returning.
(4)
Chelsea V.
One word.... Margaritas!!!! Not being a huge margarita fan myself, I found myself drinking just, well - a few (no worries, walking distance from home). But it's not just one type of tastey margarita, but several for your tastebuddies to give a try. Accompanying your sweet drink is fresh salsa and yes, some of the best guacamole I have EVER had!!!! Not only are the apps and cocktails great, but if you are looking to dine, the menu is off the charts. The fish tacos are fantastic and if you are a mac and cheese peep like me?! You will absolutely love Nada's!! Conveniently next to the Aronoff and other hot places to strut on a Friday night, stop in for a starter cocktail or fuel for a night of fun!!
(3)
Marc S.
Salsa is bland, had to doctor it up. Chips are great though. Had the fish tacos, they were okay. Service is good. A place to go every once in awhile for something different.
(3)
Clint M.
Being from Texas, I am used to a certain menu at every Mexican restaurant I eat it. The only thing that separates the places are the quality of the food and it's always easy to compare since they all have the exact same menu. This place has a very different menu and I feel like I've been missing out! I recommend the Queso fundido before your meal and the crispy pork belly tacos after that. Amazingly tender and well cooked! My wife got the chicken and corn tortillas and those were excellent too.
(5)
Ryan P.
Believe me when I say I'm a cheapskate. I love good food, but there are very few times where I justify the price of going out to eat somewhere even remotely expensive. For my 30th birthday, I decided that I wanted to try somewhere new. I settled on Nada mostly due to my affinity for good Mexican food, and also the fact that it seemed unique and expensive enough to seem worthwhile (if that makes any sense). Plus, since I was going on a Monday I would recoup my costs by going to the free admission night at the CAC right across the street. It was a brilliant plan, and I set it in motion by making a 5:30 reservation at Nada. I had scoured the menu endlessly, and knew exactly what I wanted, and knew that my picky eater of a wife would find something that she would enjoy as well. Upon arriving, I informed the hostess of my reservation, and she proceeded to seat us over at a nice window table looking out onto 6th Street. It was a great place to people watch. Unfortunately, the low point of the evening was our server. He was very attentive and did a great job, but he wasn't overly friendly and his attitude was middle-of-the-road. He never bothered to ask us if we had been there before, and didn't seem the least bit interested in his job. Luckily, we knew what we wanted, and I proceeded to order the chips and salsa for an appetizer (well worth the measly $2 cost). The chips are slightly greasy, but you didn't notice that when you dipped them into that fantastic Nada salsa. They were really better than anything in the area (save Cactus Pear). For my entree, I had the pork belly tacos with a side of mashed plantains, and the wife had the chicken and cheese enchiladas. Her first bite into the enchiladas, I knew that she had picked a winner. She loved every bit of it, save the crema, which she ordered on the side for me (she's not a sour cream fan). That was ok, because the crema went perfectly with my pork belly tacos, which if you've read any of the other reviews, you'd know were amazing. I also had to pry the mashed plantains away from the wife, as they really stole the show, not something you can usually say for a side dish. We were all content on going to the Fountain Square Greaters for desert, but the dulce de leche crepes were far too delicious sounding to pass up. They ended up being well worth it, as the blend of crepe, caramel, strawberry, and dulce de leche gelato was simply amazing! All in all, the bill totaled $67.50ish after tip, with the aforementioned items and one beer (Breckenridge Agave Wheat, which was fantastic). Both the wife and I agreed that it was a meal well worth the price. We'll surely be back, and hopefully we'll have a more chipper server next time as well!
(5)
Lauryn K.
My friends and I stopped in at Nada about ten minutes before the kitchen was set to close. We had planned to eat, and they offered us dinner menus, but not wanting to be those jerks who force the kitchen staff to work late, we just ordered some chips and salsa and drinks. Not twenty minutes later, a server appeared with plates full of every appetizer on the menu, unasked for, free of charge, and amazingly delicious. This place is, without a doubt, the best.
(5)
dale d.
I do hope this restaurant succeeds, it's in a great location. An excellent place for lunch and dinner, or a happy hour with friends after work. The food is great, and it's authentic Mexican. A funny sidebar: Every time I enter that place the bartender with the fake boobs and tan is squeezing lemons at the bar. I guarantee she's doing that all night. My friends get a kick out of it. Keep squeezing girl, you're doing a wonderful job.
(4)
Chris M.
Service (at the bar): 3 Food: 5 Atmosphere: 4 I was in Cincinnati on business and went to Nada on a recommendation from a co-worker. She told me it was good Mexican but a little pricey. She was right. This is some very good, quality Mexican food. Being raised in Oklahoma, I know good Tex-Mex/Mexican. It was also expensive. I understand they use very fresh, quality ingredients, but $25 for tacos, chips and salsa, and one beer is a little rich for my blood. This place would have a 4.5 if it weren't for the price. Mexican food is cheap to make! When I came in, I had to get the hostess's attention rather than her greeting me. The place was way too crowded for a Wednesday night, and I got a vibe from the hostess that I wasn't cool enough to be eating at this trendy little place. I was eating by myself and had to hover over people at the bar to Once I sat down, there were only 1 and a half bartenders working, so getting one's attention took a little time. I eventually ordered some Chips and Salsa and the Carnitas Tacos. I was a little upset that a basket of chips and salsa costs extra. They should always be included... like bread at an Italian restaurant. Just a pet peeve of mine. I got over the $2 once they came though. The chips were made in-house from homemade tortillas. DELICIOUS!! The salsa was good too, but nothing to rave about. When I was ordering my Carnitas Tacos, the menu gave two option below the description of the entree: Gringo Style (Mild) or El Diablo (Hot). Me liking moderately spice food and not wanting to be a whimpy white boy, I went hot. Little did I know there was a third unlisted option, medium, which is how the tacos come if you don't specify mild or hot. Needless to say, I got some lava tacos. Don't get me wrong, they were EXCELLENT, but I had to drink at least 5 glasses of water with them. Overall, I would come back here with some friends for a nice meal before going clubbing on a Saturday night. It has kind of a hip, trendy, clubby to it. The service at the bar is mediocre, but food comes out quickly once you order. And although the food is expensive, it is truly tasty and the only reason I give this restaurant 4 stars.
(4)
Nicholas A.
It is hard to put a finger on what I don't like about it. The food is okay; the prices are okay; the atmosphere is nice, but not amazing; it is not nice enough to pair with a night at the Aronoff and not close enough to bars we like to make a night of it in that direction either. I have only been when invited to join a group and it will probably stay that way.
(2)
Mike G.
Good stuff. Enough said.
(4)
Amanda A.
I would literally go to Nada for their "liquid diet" The margaritas and sangria are amaaaaaazing. Love the mac n cheese and the mahi mahi tacos are a personal fave. the wait is a little obnoxious but go with a bunch of people and sit at the bar to wait it out:)
(5)
Whitney K.
All I can say is "DELICIOUS!" Chicken taco's are amazing along with the sangria. I love the atmosphere. In most of my reviews you will come to notice that atmosphere is probably one of my main critiques and well.....Nada does a good job of presenting itself well. Great food, great place, good drinks....Check it out!
(4)
Chris H.
Well, I was looking for a place to eat, close to ten at night, downtown and the folks at the cincinnatian suggested this Mexican joint. I was at first, luke warm to Mexican food, which I love, yet was not sure it was what I wanted. Boy am I glad we went! The service was fantastic, the environment was fun, full of life and the weather nice enough to sit outside. Tried the soup, guac, salsa, some chicken dish and tacos, soft with meat that was succulent. Awesome across the board. Also tried several drinks, from sangria to a spicy margarita, and they were great. Desert was tres leches and was as good as the main course. Gave it four stars only because I felt five was over the top, yet could easily give it five stars. Enjoy!
(4)
Ben K.
Maybe I'm spoiled by the great Mexican in San Francisco and the Tex-Mex in Austin, but I couldn't love Nada. The food was so bland I had to add hot sauce, and the hot sauce available was the worst kind - no flavor, just hot. I like spicy food, and have developed a tolerance, but I want spicy flavor, not spicy boring. The menu is small, which is good - and there are options for all types of eaters (rare in the Midwest), so veggies can find one or two options. I didn't try it, but the table next to mine loved the margaritas, and they do have quite a unique selection, as well as premium tequilas. I'd be surprised if there were a better Mexican/Mexican-fusion place within 50 miles, so it is worth a stop, the service is pleasant, and it sure seems like the place to see and be seen in town, but as far as Mexican food goes, I'm not in love. I'd suggest it though for groups after work as there will be something to please everyone even with the smallish menu, and no one will wind up too disappointed.
(3)
Stacy A.
Oh man, how do I begin to describe how much I love Nada... It is hard for me to pick a favorite dish at Nada, so my girlfriends and I will go out for dinner and split as much food as we can. A great starter would be the chips, salsa, and guac. (Beware, the chips are quite greasy though delicious). The Nada sliders are amazing and typically followed by a sampler of tacos and a side of the mac 'n cheese, which is nothing less than inspirational. The gazpacho and plantain specials, when available, are a neccessity. Additionally, the atmosphere and service are fantastic and the price is reasonable.
(5)
Phil M.
pretentious. not very coo
(2)
John C.
One of my absolute favorite restaurants in Cincinnati. We've brought several out-of-town friends here and it never disappoints. It's definitely a "modern Mexican" restaurant. So don't expect authentic Mexican food, but do expect amazing Mexican food.
(5)
Jennifer R.
Nada is "upscale casual" perfectly executed. It was nice without being pretentious. Service was great, ambiance was excellent. Loved the mac and cheese. I've been dying to go back.
(4)
Gregor M.
I am pretty sure that I had just deplaned in Cincinnati, OH, but after being seated at Nada, felt surrounded by the trendy sights and sounds of San Francisco. Following a brief and very helpful overview of the menu by our hostess (intelligent and attractive), who shared with us her favorite picks offered on and off the menu, it was time to indulge. We started off with the salmon ceviche and chicken taquitos, both very delicious, and enough for two to share. Paired with Patron.... even better. For dinner, I had the barbacoa tacos, and my friend had the salmon vera cruz, both were exceptional, and promptly served. If you live in the "Cincy" area, or are just passing through as I was, "Nada" is nothing to pass up!
(4)
Steve S.
Took a trip to downtown for a 2 night trip with my wife and this was one of our must stops for dinner. Fantastic food. Thick chips, unique salsa, fresh guac, enchiladas are crazy good, and the specialty chicken is wonderful (can't remember what the dish is called but its one of the most popular) . Great service. Ask for Antoine as a server. The poor downtown is struggling a bit but this place is a shining star amidst the darkness.
(5)
Marie E.
I love Nada! I love their margaritas! I love their fish tacos and enchiladas! I don't care what the price is because ultimately yes it is expensive for Mexican but it is not expensive for a great meal which is how it should be treated. Pasta and meat sauce is not inherently more valuable than tacos and enchiladas. Why can't Mexican food charge Italian food prices? Make reservations or you are in for a long wait.
(5)
cristina T.
Nada is expensive, it is not authentic Mexican, but the food is good. Parking is a bit of a hassle if you don't want to valet, and it seems that Nada is a place where people go just to be seen, so the crowd can be a bit loud. We showed up around 6p on a Friday, without reservations, and were lucky we were able to get seated in the outdoor patio. The food, for the most part , is better than most places we've been to in the area. Like most salsas in Cincinnati, the one at Nada is nothing special and had no spice or kick to it. We had a sweet corn tamal for an appetizer, and it was very tasty and had a good texture. I ordered the corn and chicken enchiladas, and while I was disappointed to see that the enchiladas were made out of flour tortillas instead of corn, the taste was delicious. My husband had the pork and green chile cazuela which he also enjoyed. The service was good and the atmosphere may be better indoors, so I'd recommend getting reservations. Overall, it's a place I'd eat at again.
(4)
J T.
When did Cincinnati get so hip??? Who knew??? Okay, Cinci has always been a little edgy - especially for a Midwest town. But seriously - the middle of the downtown area on this weekday evening was totally happening; band playing, lots of people having fun and lots of fashion. Nada is a sort of Mexican fusion restaurant in the center of downtown with two levels including a bar on both floors and outdoor dining as well. Overall a great setup for a nice meal out. The food was good - diverse selection of tacos seemed to be the major incentive. Chips and salsa was nice and the guacamole just right. Service was outstanding really - meaning very prompt, attentive, engaged and multiple people attending, besides a primary server. All in all a great scene for food and fun - recommend Nada.
(4)
Julian B.
Nada is the trendiest Mexican restaurant you will ever visit. Thankfully, it's also one of the tastiest. Located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, Nada lights up the otherwise dull Cinci scene with loud food and even louder decor. Brightly colored flood lights canvas the outside walls, and hip Japanese-import-only Kid Cudi tracks pump from the speakers as if to remind everyone that "Hey, this is no ordinary Mexican restaurant". Thankfully, it would appear that Nada puts just as much effort in to its food as it does its facade. The tortilla chips served for starters were double-layered and fried, making them extra crunchy, greasy, and infinitely more delicious. I wouldn't order the guacamole to go with it as it was only average, but the salsa was excellent (and free!) As far as the entrees go, myself and my coworkers had the chicken tacos, mahi mahi tacos, and a pork stew called an iron pot between us. The pork stew was a bit too thickly spiced for my taste, but the meat itself was well marinated and perfectly cooked. The chicken tacos were fairly vanilla, but like the pork, the meat was perfectly marinated and cooked. The mahi mahi tacos, however, were UNBELIEVABLE. Apologies for the caps but I seriously need you to vibe with me on how fantastic these little fish tacos were. Breaded in a Dos Equis beer batter, these tacos deserve their own gallery in the Crunchy Foods hall of fame. The serving of fish on each individual taco was also very generous, and to boot the dish is very moderately priced (right around $20). My only beef with Nada - that unfortunately cost this review it's 5th star -was the subpar service. Our waiter was very forgetful, inattentive, and only interested in recommending the most expensive dishes on the menu. However, I would say that this tiny hiccup can definitely be overlooked given how enjoyable your meal is likely going to be. Not sure if there's a discount for wearing skinny jeans and horn rimmed glasses, but it could be worth a shot. Recommended from the menu: Mahi Mahi Tacos
(4)
Michael M.
I had the steak and fried egg fajitas for brunch and was pleasantly surprised. I would give 4.5 stars as there is some room for improvement but not much.
(5)
Peter K.
I was in town for business for a night, and bopped onto Yelp to see what I should be looking for downtown, and found Nada. I was initially skeptical of a Mexican place in Cincinnati, but given the great recommendations, decided to give it a whirl. I was not disappointed. Aside from the somewhat odd feature of having to pay for your own chips and salsa, which is a pretty foreign experience for a California-boy, everything was tip-top. I highly, highly recommend the Chicken Tortilla soup. It was an exceedingly rich broth, and did not suffer from the wateriness that you often get. It was so filling, I almost had wished I had only ordered it and some more margaritas. The chile verde was excellent, and again, very thick and hearty. The one thing I could have hoped for would have been an option for corn tortillas, rather than the typical flour. If you ever find yourself in Cincinnati and need to grab dinner, Nada was todo I needed.
(4)
Pramee M.
So, I had been to Nada plenty of times and it's been great every time. From the margaritas (so I was told) to the appetizers to the food, everything is excellent. It's a great place to go after work or pre party. The only downfall is the salsa and chips. The salsa is great, but the chips are greasy and are just not that great. Otherwise, I would definitely return to Nada next time I am in Cincinnati.
(4)
Anson P.
Honestly, I did not expect to find a restaurant like Nada in Cincinnati. It was definitely interesting to have this place picked for our group by an older physician, but whatever works. He definitely has good taste. We were a large group and rolled into a private dining room upstairs. The bar area looked pretty busy. We started off with chips with salsa and guacamole. The guacamole was pretty good. I wasn't a fan of the salsa. It was too watery and smoky. I just don't like smoky salsa. We also had the sopes (crispy bread boats with meat, onions, and cheese). These were very tasty and lighter than I expected. The chicken taquitos were ok, nothing to write home about. For my entree, I had the roasted "gerber farms" chicken. The chicken itself was very good and had a nice crispy salty skin. It went well with the corn although the fregula tasted like mushy pasta and contributed nothing to the dish really. What really makes the dish though is an added splash of hot sauce from the table. The person next to me ordered the pork shoulder and seemed happy with it. The service was pretty good and drink orders were filled reasonably well. Tried a mojito and a vodka cranberry, both were reasonably strong. There is a parking garage nearby as we couldn't find any spots on the street.
(4)
Fuzzysaurus L.
So nada has been open for a couple months now and i finally got to try it. Located where the old bella used to be near the Aronoff, nada is the new restaurant of Chef David Falk - of the Boca Restaurant acclaim. The food could be described as high end Mexican/Latin fusion with appetizers such as fresh guacamole (very very good) or tacos to share (2 per order). For the entrees, choose from cazuelas which are similar to little pots of intensely flavored stews, to "large" plates of specialties like the "niman ranch" pork shop or shrimp and tamal. Although the food is tasty, be forewarned that this is not the place to go if you're hungry (similar to Boca) - it can get quite expensive rather quickly as the portions aren't that big. Also - don't expect the food to be the same unexpected delight that Boca dishes offer. It's good, but the element of uniqueness isn't there. All in all, this is a good place to go to if you want something tasty in small portions. The atmosphere is quite boisterous and it's a fun place to be. Great lunch spot, and the outside seating is good for happy hour if the weather's nice. Favorites? mahi mahi tacos - deliciously crispy and flaky guacamole - very fresh, they added sliced beets on top which added a nice crunch pork green chile cazuela - the stew was very flavorful and the pork tender. i think this and the mahi mahi are the best dishes there. oh - on a side note, be sure to save room for dessert. this warm chocolate torte with bananas foster gelato was the one dish where i was surprised! it's not to be missed.
(4)
The Big Babboon I.
THE BEST PORK BELLY TACOS EVER...Seriously...THE BEST! Cocktails were nice too..
(5)
Diane B.
Great food and I was very impressed with how accommodating they are with my dietary needs(gluten and dairy free). I have been 3 times in the 2 months I've lived here and will continue to go back!
(5)
Ben J.
HUGE fan. One of the best places to eat in Cincy. It's also a great bar to hang before you hit downtown. The quac is delish and fresh. There is a trio of meats, Cazuela tasting, served in tiny staub cast iron pots that is delicious to share. Fresh ingredients and great service keep me going back every 2 weeks.
(5)
Bea D.
Excellent food. Expect to pay a premium here. We went for brunch. I had a lovely cocktail called Velvet Underground. It was $8 -ouch. I liked it so much though that I have since begun making it at home. The staff was kind enough to offer me the recipe. Pork belly tacos are a winner as most Yelpers indicate. I loved the space. It was airy and modern. They have outdoor seating. I am sure it is it delightful, and I would like to sit outside next time I visit Nada.
(4)
Karan M.
The vegetarian tacos here are decent. The serving size is adequate however I am not the biggest fan of their spice profiles. The reason I gave Nada 4 stars is for it's location and fun environment. Every time I drive by, I want to stay for a drink or two no matter what day of the week it is.
(4)
Ryan P.
Overpriced, but delicious food ("Mexican" should never be this expensive, so I guess you are paying for location). Great atmosphere that lends itself to people watching, especially if something is happening at the Aronoff. Speaking of the theatre...Nada makes a great place to dine and have a drink before or after a show right next door. I would recommend the traditional mojito and the house chips (AMAZING) with their wonderful fire-roasted tomato salsa to start. My wife, who is the aficionado on all things chicken and enchilada, claimed that Nada's version is the best she's ever had. I guess it was the cheese? Anyhow, I had the lamb mole cazuela which was falling apart in the iron pot. There was a great contrast between the richness of the lamb, the fresh pop of the peas and perhaps the best part...the spaghetti squash. I have to admit that this is my first encounter with such a squash and let me tell you, it was superb. Nada is a great, hip place to spend a couple hours munching on well executed Mexican food while tipping back some margaritas or mojitos.
(4)
Kathryn W.
The food was really good--good Margaritas too. Service was quite--maybe a little too--attentive. The server gave me the feeling that he was trying to make us his regulars. He said --and I am sure it is true--that the only times they got bad reviews were from people who did not care for the atmosphere on Friday or Saturday nights. A little too busy and loud then perhaps. We sat in a corner and had a great birthsay dinner . I want to go back for the shrimp tacos--very yummy!
(4)
James S.
Well, it's not Mexican, but the food was very tasty. I had the Barbacoa Tamal, which was basically spicy barbacoa on top of the masa, which was sweet, with squeezed lime and a tangy green chile sauce drizzled over it. The atmosphere was also not Mexican, but it was classy casual and modern. Overall I quite liked the place, but don't go here if you're expecting real Mexican. It's Mexican themed modern cuisine.
(4)
Jim K.
Everyone has covered it. Trust 'em! Everything was great from start to finish. No joke. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Rick S.
Great place. The service was amazing. Make sure you ask to sit in Ruth's section she is awesome.
(5)
N M.
This is upscale Mexican. Many traditional Mexican dishes vs the usual American / Mexican or Tex / Mex you find everywhere. If you like Mexican, you will love this place! Great margaritas. Valet parking.
(5)
Joob B.
Good Mexican food. Being from a state near the border, I had doubts. But the tinga poblano was delicious. Chicken and Chorizo in a spicy tomato sauce. Very good - nice spice. Guac could have used a bit more salt and lime, but that didn't stop me. Didn't care for the chips. Greasy and Thick. Prefer a thin, non-greasy tortilla. Nice assortment of Mexican Beers.
(3)
David C.
Who knew? I would find such great Mexican food in OH. I ate at this spot twice during a recent trip to Cincinnati. A few pointers... if you like corn tortillas... you have to ask for them as they seem to default to flour tortillas. I too found it a bit odd that they make enchiladas with flour tortillas... I've always had them made with corn tortillas... makes for quite a different experience.... not bad... just different. The chips are fantastic.... you do have to pay for them... but they are very good. I will be back to Cincinnati this fall and this will be one of my stops... the food is really great!
(4)
Jason B.
Nada is one of the best mexican restaurants in cincy. Good atmosphere, centrally located. Been a few times and if there's anything you could complain about it would be the difficulty of getting a reservation or table, but that's a good sign. The food is very good. I recommend the tinga poblana pot iron or the pork chop.
(5)
Aristotle H.
Terrific mexican food with a twist. Love the lively atmosphere. Long wait times so i highly recommend a reservation. Excellent place for a date or a larger gathering. The food never fails to impress... Start with their fruit infused sangria. The bottomless chips are quite addicting and are perhaps best enjoyed with a bowl of their expensive yet delicious guac. I highly recommend the mahi mahi fish tacos (crispy or grilled). Save room for their phenomenal churros.
(4)
Lynn V.
s'ok. i ordered the mahi mahi tacos which were GOOD. just enough avocado and pico de gallo. good amount of fried. GOOD. BIGGEST pet peeve: cocktails made with not-fresh ingredients. triple sec needs to die. my margarita was so sweet. but that's kind of my fault: i saw it was made with triple sec. sigh. nada was HOPPING. and it's a tuesday. way to go, cincinnati! waffley 2.5/3
(3)
Alvarez W.
Delicious. Pork belly tacos are awesome. Really enjoyed the experience.
(4)
Kevin S.
Had brunch on Sunday. Great crowd great feel. The jalapeño Mac and cheese is spectacular as an app
(4)
Jared N.
Whoever wrote negative reviews of this place did not get the crispy pork belly tacos. That is all.
(5)
Kyle G.
This is one of my new favorite places in Cincinnati. Giant margarita bottles and amazing latin food. The ceviche is as good as it gets.....big props! .....and don't skip the great chips and salsa.
(5)
Kristen A.
Nada is a great choice for a bachelorette party! Our table was set up with candy, roses, champagne flutes, and other gifts!
(5)
Kelly G.
Nada certainly does not live up to its name - Nothing! Nada, in fact, is actually something. We ordered the guacamole and salsa as an appetizer. The guac was delish - fresh and light, and full of chunks of avocado. Personally, I like fresh flour chips a lot so I fully enjoyed them. The salsa, while fine, was a bit watery for me. The taquitos, served fried with chicken on the inside were covered in a salsa verde and a small amount of a soft cheese similar to ricotta. These were very tasty, and well cooked. I ordered the Mahi Mahi tacos. Three small flour tortillas with a fried piece of Mahi Mahi atop a bed of guacamole, topped with shredded cabbage and pico de gallo. The fish was awesome - not greasy, and very flaky and good. The flavors in the taco blended very well, especially after adding a bit of the fresh lime. My dad ordered the chicken tacos, which turned out to be a bit bland. Grilled chicken (which was a bit dry) piled on black bean puree and topped with cheese and pico de gallo. If you order the chicken tacos, be ready to have the hot sauce handy. The drinks were also good. Great (although NOT large) margaritas, excellent minty sweet (but not too sweet) mojitos. The sangria left something to be desired - the shot of bourbon was not necessary, the glass was small, and it needed more fruit. The drinks were also a bit overpriced for what you get. The service was quick and nice, and might scare grandma with the tattoos - my favorite kind of waiters. :) In general, I think Nada is a great place to visit while on vacation, on a night out, or maybe just celebrating the end of the week. The prices make it a "once and a while" but the food makes it a definite "more than once".
(4)
Zak R.
Being new to the city, I was told this place was a MUST! I was disappointed with the food, it was good but not great. Steep prices and small portion sizes were evident. Thankfully the service was decent and my company was excellent, otherwise it would have received a lower rating.
(2)
Chris L.
Excellent food and drink! We had the guacamole appetizer, veggie tacos, and barbicoa tacos. The sparkling sangria was light and refreshing. If in town again, we'll probably order the exact same meal!
(4)
Christoffer M.
I'll put it out there up front: I don't like Mexican food. But I do like good food, and Nada was able to mitigate that first distaste by leaning heavily on the second. The freshness of the herbs and citrus was indisputably apparent in my ceviche, so although cilantro is not my favorite leaf, I could still enjoy the refreshing appetizer. If you, too, are not a huge fan of the cuisine south of the border, there are plenty of Americano items for you: burgers and some other grilled meats have only a hint of Mexican influence. However, the traditional fare (fish tacos - get them fried not grilled - braised beef ribs in mole sauce) is the best so long as you don't share my ethnic cuisine prejudice. The ambience is very lively here, especially before a show at the Aronoff, at which times you will definitely need reservations. The hip location downtown (across from the Contemporary Arts Center) and prominent facade make it highly visible and rapidly famous. As such, you'll find a very young, slick crowd - both sitting at and serving the tables. Yet the feel is anything but stuffy. The wait staff wears tshirts and the music is lively (especially downstairs). Crowds will often be well dressed if they're going to a show, but feel free to dress down (within reason - leave the holy jeans at home). I'm also biased against tequila, but they do make a mean margarita.
(4)
Alfonso L.
PROS: Great location and I managed to find a parking space late on a Friday night right in front **Awesome decor, sat upstairs not at a table (there was a 30 min wait) but at the end of the bar **Salsa served with delicious fresh, slightly salted chips. Salsa was tomato-ey and had a nice smoky finish **Incredible chile mango margarita ($10). The waiter had to ask me if I had had spicy drinks before. I lied. What a great drink! The fresh mango puree mixed with the chile de arbol (yes!) and the excellent tequila made for a zesty and punchy drink. I could have had way more than just that one. **I passed on the Mex mac and cheese but it sounded really good **Instead I went for the pork chile verde, which was a "cazuela", served in a iron dish, along with some fluffy rice. The pork was tender, just a tad bland (in seasoning) but the tomatillo sauce was very good. It seemed to have too many poblano chile slices mixed in the braise, but overall I would order it again. **The frijoles charros were delicious. I ordered them on the side and even stuck some chips in it to soften them up. **Dessert would have been the tres leches cake, but alas I passed, Maybe next time. CONS: **Way too noisy downstairs. Glad I fled that for the second floor. **The bar upstairs had some hipsters with loud voices, trading dumb work stories way too loud and also sampling tequilas. It's a tad hard to get the bartender's attention when you're there for the food. **Mexican food really isn't that expensive, or it shouldnt be. $19 for the cazuela? Come on, this isn't Rick Bayless's place --it's so not at that level, but it's decent **Tortillas do not seem to come with the orders. How then, does a person eat the cazuelas? Just with a knife and fork? Come on. I had to order them and that took a little while. But the quality was good. You know --I never even checked if they charged me for them. Ugh. **There was a very needless ramekin of sour cream or crema that came with the cazuela. This doesnt make it authentic at all. This just makes it more Tex Mex (yeah, a negative) and made the tortillas then even more wanting. All in all, a very good place --for Cincinnati and I would definitely go back.
(4)
Chris P.
We were there as a group on a business trip. The service was great and the drinks were also very good. I had the pink grapefruit margarita and enjoyed it very much. Now what stood out for me was the Baja Fish Tacos. They were light and delicious the just the right amount of guacamole, cabbage and pico de gallo. (Good guacamole too if you just want it with chips.)
(4)
Patricia V.
On Fri Sept 23 we had a wonderful dining experience at Nada. We arrived around 9:30pm, and the hostesses indicated there would be a 1 and 1/2 hour wait, so we enjoyed cocktails at the bar upstairs. Our bartender was speedy and our drinks were fantastic. My friend especially loved the sparkling sangria and my caipirinha was perfect. Within 20 minutes, we were seated much earlier than estimated. Our server Chris was courteous and delightful. He did a superb job describing all of the cazuelas, so I ordered the cazuela tasting based off his enthusiastic recommendation - it was utterly delicious! He even suggested a specific hot sauce to go with my friend's dinner too. Though I do not live in Cincinnati, I will be sure to dine at Nada every time I'm in town.
(5)
Lee B.
I think Nada is a fantastic spot. It's perfect for a first date, a dinner with the girls, or a place to start the night with an out of town guest. Now thinking about it, I've also taken my mom there...so it really is a great spot to take just about anyone. It is somewhat pricy, but in my mind it's worth the price, and you can easily order from the taco menu and be just as full and satisfied as you would ordering one of the more expensive entrees. The drinks are an added perk as well. The last time I was at Nada, I ordered a sparkling sangria, which was so delicious that it disappeared a little too quickly. The atmosphere is very fun and inviting. In the summer, sitting outside beneath the hanging lights and spending time with friends is a perfect way to start or end the evening.
(5)
Ben S.
Wow! Gave my little lady friend from rural clermont county a taste of the city life by coming to Nada New Years Eve night. The city was packed so we thought we didn't have a chance but we tried and had an hour and a half wait (not bad, all things considered). Finally got a seat at nada around 9:30pm. They phoned me when it was ready, very considerate of them. The place was still crowded as could be at 9:30, people still filing in. The atmosphere is very cool. I love the steps, the chandelier, everything. Ate upstairs. The tables are about 2 feet from each other- be prepared. It's VERY intimate- not with your date, but with the person sitting directly next to you- basically touching shoulders the entire night. Your date will seem miles away. The service is very good. They don't have a lot of space to work with, but they usually don't reach over heads to get to you- and when they do, they get out of the way quickly. The food is terrific. Shared the fajitas. Never had fajitas quite like this, but they were flavorful and wild and unexpected. I'm not going to spoil it for you, But I seriously suggest the fajitas. The noise level is a little high, but it was NYE night, so it might have been the occasion. I really enjoyed nada and I think you will too. Don't bring the kids, dress to impress and if it's the weekend, prepare to wait!!
(4)
Rachel P.
Food, 5 stars. Started with the queso dip which was smokey and delicious. The macaroni and cheese is amazing. The poblanos give it great flavor. My pork belly tacos were the best tacos I've ever had. Nice slab of pork belly that melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with guacamole and whatever sauce they use. My complaint is service, thus the 2 star rating. I had two drinks. The second one I ordered I had to send back. It tasted completely different and was even a different color. I nicely asked for another and was treated by our waitress like it was my fault. Her tone was extremely condescending and she made unnecessary comments about it. I then asked her if she could break a 10 for the parking garage. She told me she would have to check and see if they had change. When she brought it back she interrogated me as to why I needed it broken down and even asked, "doesn't the parking garage have change?" I was shocked. When she walked away my friends and I looked around like wtf? I'm not sure what was going on with this lady but she did not handle anything that rocked the boat well. Maybe it was an off night for her. Definitely go for the food. Since I've only been there once I can't compare service to another experience.
(2)
Sarah M.
I think Nada was over-hyped for me. On a business trip to Cinci I scooted in for lunch before flying out again, and while the service was very good, the overall effect was a little disappointing. Nice enough atmosphere and very good service, but the carnitas tamal was tame and insufficient for the meal. I was looking for wow, and got... meh. Perspective helps though: this was Cincinnati, not Santa Fe. So yes, it was PDG for Cinci - I would probably go back. And it seemed to be quite the hot spot for Cinci, so more power to it.
(3)
Emily E.
Again, like a lot of my reviews, I will say that this place is good. The food, the booze, all good. The price... is a bit much for a taco. That's my only qualm. ... The location is right by the Arnoff, so it's great for a pre-show bite. I would highly recommend coming during happy hour, as the prices are much more reasonable!
(3)
Chris V.
This place has it all,great atmosphere, friendly staff and awesome food.We loved it!
(5)
Marcie M.
Still....still amazing. I mean, just amazing! I am so happy this is A) still here b/c it's been YEARS since I've been back and B) still sooooooooo good. Our guac was fresh and tasty (though not enough of it), service at the bar was on par and very friendly! We loved our woman server with the nose ring. She was super cute and fun on a Saturday afternoon. The tacos --- oh the short rib and carnitas. Oh so good. I think for the lunch portion, the price is a little high -- as I though we would get three for $12-$14 bucks but no, just two (that's why it's not five stars). That being said, the short rib is SOOOO freakin' fabulous. The butternut squash soup was simply divine. I wanted to drown myself in it. For the record, this place seems to ALWAYS be busy. I was really (pleasantly) surprised! That is always soooo impressive especially after several years of being open. People keep coming back, clearly. Very cool. Oh -- I had a drink with blanco tequila and grapefruit of some kind and it was delish! I have to say it was a great way to start our trip to Cincy. I was very pleased and happy to introduce you to my hubby! I've been sharing with him for years that this is my favorite "fancy Mexican place" and you didn't disappoint! More please. In Indy please. Plllllllllllease? OK, no probably not. Boo.
(4)
Ryan D.
This is my ultimate, most delicious, favorite classy Mexican place EVER. Disclaimer: if you are looking for your run of the mill, be it DELICIOUS, Mexican restaurant for the cheap drinks and regular food, check out another place Now lets get back to NADA!! the Drinks: ARE DELICIOUS! Homemade, strong, grgeous, a bit expensive but honestly worth every penny. Every time I go in we get a pictcher which is the same price as 4 drinks, but fun fact you get 5 drinks out of it so its like they are giving away drinks! (kinda.) the Tacos: Oh my goodness, they are incredible. I love the Carnitas tacos for the freshness of the guacamole on top as well as the corn tortillas that are soooooo fresh. This is my go to order but everyone else I know has their own favorite and swears by it, I honestly dont think you can go wrong with any of them. Fun fact #2, you can get a single taco of any on the menu, just ask the waiter. the Service: unmatched. They take their time to be personable and classy, helpful and knowledgeable while still being fun. Personal story: the last time we were in, one of our party is strictly Gluten Free/Vegetarian and they changed the oil on the spot to make fresh chips that could not possibly have any cross contamination with meat or and gluten. WHO DOES THAT?!? Nada does. Come here, you will thank me later and EVERY time you decide to come back.
(5)
Meghan Q.
You must get the ceviche!! It's amazing! They don't hold back on the fresh seafood, shrimp, octopus, calamari, and mussels, with a spicy circus broth, and then finished with a avocado moose! Complement with a margarita! You cannot go wrong!
(5)
Stacy P.
Whenever I find myself in downtown Cincinnati, I always seem to make my way to Nada for drinks and a bite to eat. While Nada doesn't have a separate gluten free menu or label what items can be modified to be GF, the staff does a good job working with you on determining what items can be altered to be so. One of the best things is that Nada can make their chips GF and they signify that the chips are GF by placing a Mexican flag toothpick on the chip basket. The food as a whole is good. Expect to pay more than what one would expect for Mexican food, but it higher end restaurant. This place can get noisy and can be extremely busy. If you wish to eat at a certain time, I would make sure to make reservations in advance. If you time it right, you can snag a seat at the lower or upper bar and avoid the wait. One of the best things about Nada is that is within less than a 10 minute walk from a majority of the hotels downtown, and it is open until 10 PM S-Thr.
(3)
Jen I.
My co worker and I had lunch here - very hip Mexican restaurant! We started with the Guacamole and it was spot on. My co worker was disappointed they didn't have anything with Mole sauce on it and ended up getting the chicken and corn enchiladas - he said they were very good. I got the Tinga Poblana Cazuela - it was delicious and I would get it again! Enjoy!
(4)
Veronica V.
My sister invited me and my mother to this place for brunch and I was like mexican for breakfast? weird but whateves - love mexican. This place is more like a mexican flare not authentic mexican fooods. WOW!!!!!! this place is amazing. Very cool interior (two levels) Outside seating. Bummer for us it was raining when we went. First you get a yummy drink with a splash of alcohol. I had a blood orange something, was good. Chips and Salsa - Salsa was not spicy at all. Still good. Boca Fries - yum.. I asked for a little side of the green diablo sauce - it was just heavy black pepper taste. Nothing we order was spicy (to me) I ordered pork belly tacos, my mom got Huevos Rancheros, and my sister eggs benedicto (this seems to be very popular looking around the room) Everything was so good. I would definitely go back!
(4)
Aaron R.
Nada was highly recommended to me so while in Cincy had to try it. Had an amazing experience at Nada today. It is definitely upscale Tex-Mex, and the prices reflect that. While the house margarita is batch pre-made it is very good. Don't totally love having to pay for chips and salsa but at $2 it's not a big deal. Pork Belly tacos were to die for, so flavorful in themselves, almost makes one wonder what black magic they use to make them so delightful. Also tried the Barbacoe tacos and they were really amazing as well. Johnny my bartender was very helpful, and had good recommendations on tequilas. The glassware is all custom blown and each glass is slightly different. Despite living 70-80 miles away I will be back.
(5)
Ana M.
This place is good but I've had better Mexican food for much cheaper. However, I LOVE LOVE LOVE their Mac n cheese. It's spicy and delicious. If you like Mac n cheese I suggest you try theirs. Otherwise, everything else is just decent.
(4)
Kamya D.
The menu has a small selection of food but there is alot of drinks to choose from. The host are great the server took forever to take my order..the place it clean in a way. The music is ok . The lunch rush is ok not that many people. I was the only in the place with no chips and salsa....i ordered a grilled chicken and rice the chesse and tomatos made the whole meal cold that was unacceptable to me.. I wouldn't eat here again but the drinks are the only thing i enjoyed.
Overall, pretty good. You definitely over pay for the "cool place to be" location, but it is unique fresh food. We had the guacamole and the salsa trio for appetizers and they were both very good. The tortilla chips are great too. I got the pork belly tacos which were fantastic and my wife got the chicken and corn enchiladas which were also very good. Nothing mind blowing, but pretty good. I would recommend.
(4)
Marilynne C.
good drinks and decent food very trendy hard to get a table too
(3)
Calvin C.
Nada is a high-end Mexican place in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. I usually don't come here specifically for the food but its a great meet-up place for business or for fun. On my al-pastor/value ratio, they are average as the al-pastor is pretty decent but the tacos are pretty expensive ($20 for 3 tacos). The drinks/beer menu is quite extensive and can cover pretty much everyone's tastes. During brunch, the pork belly tacos are really recommended. If you are craving a nice place to have drinks with a great atmosphere, this is a great place to go. If you're looking for a true Mexican taste, there are better places to go.
(3)
Maggie B.
This place has some amazing Mexican and Mexican fusion dishes. The Short Rib Sopes are amazing and taste just like Mexico. They are crispy and flavorful. The gazpacho is fantastic. I have never been much of a dam but I crave this one. The flavors are perfectly pairs. The tomato base is refreshing, the corn and peppers add complexity, the touch of yogurt makes it creamy, and the croutons give a fantastic crunch. The Mexican Mac and Cheese is a great comfort food. Perfect texture, Not mushy in the least with great pepper flavors. The chips are multilayered and addictive. Try them with the guac and the creeper salsa. It is spicy but with such a delicious flavor that you can't stop eating it. The Chicken enchiladas are also quite tasty. I would steer away from the tacos. They are ok but not as good as Others.
(4)
Sara H.
Good food. Chicken was tender and well seasoned. Sangria was amazing. Went out of my comfort zone and got a chili mango margarita and was disgusting!!!
(3)
Rick S.
Okay! Let's get this straight. Nada has a cool vibe. Lots of pretty people coming in and out. It's location is great. Next door to theater. Across the street from a hip hotel. A museum at the other corner. The center of the city, Fountain Square, just a block away. All good. But, it this the best Mexican food I've ever eaten? Nope! It's good, for sure, but the new menu is pretty limited. You'd best be in the mood for tacos. Nada is fun and a good place to hang with friends, but it only rates an "OK" if you're comparing it to Mexican food, say, from Texas or southern Cali.
(3)
Teri D.
I was not impressed...as a matter of fact I was a bit miffed! The food itself wasn't too bad. The cheese dip was rather good as was the fish tacos ($12.00) The small mixto salad was reasonably priced at $6.50 and hit the spot so why the low score? Our server! Dude was many places but not often at our table. We had to wait to flag him down several times for water and refills on the water and we really had to wait for him to get the bill to us even after we asked for it. No bueno!
(2)
Jim D.
Rude reception. Almost nonexistent wait staff. At least the food was good. Guacamole was excellent. Fish tacos were very good. Service was so bad I won't be back.
(3)
Tommy L.
This place is the pinnacle of restaurants. Great service, great location, great atmosphere, and the greatest food I have had in the greater Cincinnati area. I've been here on two occasions. On the first, we sat outside on a beautiful night and I ordered salmon tacos. On the second occasion, we sat inside near the window on a rainy evening; I enjoyed the yucatan chicken. Both experiences exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend ordering guacamole to start with. It's some of the best guacamole I've had to date. Also, if you go there on your birthday you get a free plate of churros for dessert. I will definitely return here again to try some of the other delicious dishes!
(5)
Damian C.
Churros. My co-workers RAVED about the churros. Like, for many weeks leading up to our work trip all I heard about was how this place has the best churros known to man. I have had churros once. Here. And yes, they do not disappoint. Light, fluffy, crunchy, sugary. Mmm. Solid. Dessert usually isn't my thing but these are definitely worth saving room for. And don't skip over the chile-mango margarita. Is caliente your bag? Then this concoction is for you. Truth be told, it's not as spicy as advertised by the waitress and the food runner. But maybe I have a high tolerance? Bonkers. We started with the Mexican mac and cheese. This was muy bueno, albeit a bit small. Sharing among 4 people allowed a small taste as opposed to a large indulgence, so order wise and order more. My spice-sensitive co-worker found it to have some kick while I longed for a bit more burn. The other three shared three types of tacos while I, the fourth, settled on the chicken and corn enchiladas. They were absolutely scrumptious. Like, absolutely scrumptious x 10. The fregula was a nice touch and the sauce was perfectly flavored. I liked the twist on a meal that can generally be so deliciously boring. At $19, it was a bit expensive, considering there were no beans and rice on the side (??!??!), but the silver lining was that I had plenty of room for dessert. The decor was fun, the restaurant was bustling, and, overall, great service. I spotted a fire pit outside... if only it would have been warm enough to dine al fresco! Add it to your CInci list - I'm a fan!
(4)
Rachel M.
Great food, great margaritas, great service! Ask for Barb - her menu recommendations are the best!
(5)
Maya S.
Decided to go on a hot date and ended up at Nada... So glad we did, the food was so freaking good! I recommend the chips, salsa, & guacamole !!!! I had the shrimp taco, fish taco, and chicken taquitos , I was very pleased !!! My date had the salmon taco , shrimp taco, and veggie taco .... She love everything but wasn't happy with the veggie taco !!!!! I'm looking forward to coming back !!!!
(4)
Jill N.
3-1/2 stars. Pretty good happy hour specials. My friend ordered the macaroni and cheese which I tasted and it reminded me of velveeta shells with cayenne pepper stirred in. I don't think I would ever order that myself. But their barbacoa tacos are excellent. This place can get ridiculously, ear-ringingly loud when it gets crowded which is most of the time. But overall it's pretty solid and while I don't go to Nada that often, every now and then it really seems to fit the bill for certain occasions.
(3)
Eli D.
We had the pork enchiladas and the pork belly tacos. The hostess was extremely welcoming. The enchiladas were ok, but I've had better. The pork belly tacos, however, were awesome. Our server was very nice and prompt, without being intrusive. The food here is ok, definitely, but the environment / atmosphere of this place I think is the big draw. It's a fun place, and is an especially fun place to dine during the spring and summer months. 3.5 stars for the food, but 4 overall for the experience.
(4)
Amy B.
If you haven't done brunch at Nada you MUST get your rear in gear! Nada brunch is best enjoyed Sunday right as they open around 10:30. You can't go wrong with huevos rancheros and a house made bloody maria. Or if that's got too much kick for you then your sweet tooth will be quite content with the french toast. Of course you can't forget the brunch bevy, so pick out the sparkling blood orange or the velvet underground which are both made with fresh fruit puree! Is it brunch time yet?
(4)
Joel B.
I went here with my family for my brother's birthday a year ago, and then again with friends last month. Both times the service and food was perfect. Unique, high quality, takes on classic mexican dishes, with every plate being carefully created, but still inviting. The prices are high for some pretty simple ingredients, but the execution explains part of that. I might need more experience to give it a 5th star, but it's pushing for it already.
(4)
Karen L.
Delicious gourmet Mexican. My only complaint is that it's a tad expensive. Fantastic handmade tortillas, and the house-made sorbets and ice creams were out of this world! We came for brunch on Sunday after church and loved it. The decor is beautiful, too, and includes some authentic Mexican furniture and handicrafts. If I had to choose one word the restaurant, I'd call it eclectic. Fresh Mexican with a modern twist.
(4)
Billy G.
Such a weird thing to rave over, but the sliders are the best cheeseburgers I've ever had in my life. We all live in this great country and have had many a cheeseburger in our time. It is hard to find one that knocks your socks off. Put socks on and go try them out. Great drinks, great waitstaff. Thanks for a great evening.
(5)
Amy N.
Pretty enjoyable meal! A few details.... Love the ambiance here, really open, colorful & bright. The downside was the loud music, which to this decidedly not-hip-anymore-girl was too club like, and not dinner friendly. The four of us had a hard time conversing over our meal. Excellent salsa to go with the chips (you have to purchase the chips & salsa, btw), but the chips were kinda greasy for my liking, very salty too. Loved the guacamole, but the very small portion was not enough for these four hungry gringos, so we ordered a second serving. $7 bucks a pop. My vegan eyes hit on the vegetarian tacos right away, so I ordered those without the cheese. Wow, they were really good! This looked like a very simple dish, but the flavors were amazing. The veg tacos are made up of grilled Portobello mushrooms, beans, rice, guacamole, and pico de gallo. I would go back for these! My dinner mates ordered fish tacos, vegetarian tacos, and chicken tacos. All were well liked, but one comment from the chicken taco diner was that the chicken was not grilled. I'm not sure if that's how it is described on the menu, but it is what he expected. The service was very good- polite and timely. Our sever was kind enough to tell me that she thought that the tortillas may have milk in them.....this would be unusual, flour tortillas are not typically made with milk, but I must say that anytime a server is watching out for my vegan best interests, I am very appreciative. I think we'll go back & maybe sit outside next time away from the music.
(4)
Matt S.
I think by now I've tried all of the tacos at Nada and I have yet to be let down--they are all fantastic. Last night I got the Crispy Pork Belly tacos, and it is definitely my favorite. This time though, my server recommend adding a fried egg to one of my tacos, and wow, absolutely delicious. Adding the fried egg took an already amazing taco and made it even better! I highly recommend it. My only issue with Nada is that they charge $2 for chips and salsa, and that if you want to mix-n-match tacos then they charge you more. 3 tacos of the same kind are $16 (more or less depending which you get), but 3 different ones are $6.50 each. However, price shouldn't be the reason to go to Nada. The best Mexican food in the city is the reason to go.
(4)
Liberty S.
I went to Nada for brunch, and discovered a whole new genre of brunch. I was so excited! I ordered the Tinga and Egg Cazuela. It had tons of flavor and was beautifully presented. However, I didn't really know if I wanted to eat it with a fork or put it in the provided tortillas. I ate it both ways and was happy and no one gave me weird looks. The staff throws leftover water in the plants surrounding the patio and were very good humored. It's great!
(4)
Chris K.
My wife and I came for our 13th Anniversary. The service was outstanding, and the food was phenomenal. And the price wasn't that much more than a "typical" Mexican Restaurant, but the atmosphere and menu are head and shoulders above those other places. Highly recommended. We will most definitely be back.
(5)
Kimberly M.
Excellent service, and food was very tasty. my only complaint is that it's overpriced for the portions that you get.
(3)
Not Your Average ..
We came here before a show at the Aronoff center, and the atmosphere and our server were very kind. The food however, was completely over salted. We were starving and ordered so much, close to $100 and we couldn't' finish our food, paid and left to go to another restaurant.
(2)
Jackie C.
I am a BIG mexican fan so i am especially hard on this type of restaurant/food I will say this place gets a 5 for decor. SOOOOO cute and trendy- loved the outdoor patio and all the colors! Now to the food. The guac was super soar. Like too much lime & salt. My tongue and the roof of my mouth started to get raw bc of it. And the chips were horrible. It tasted like an entire bottle of salt was dumped on the smashed chips they served. Drinks were decent. Small yet tasty. Prob the best part of the meal. Food. I got the baja fish tacos and my friend got the chicken. Super basic and small. They give you three tiny tacos- more of the gourmet style (not a fan). Again, very sour. Too much lime AGAIN! The flavors were all very bland. Mex and bland do not go together so i was again, disappointed. I heard bakersfield is GREAT- should have stopped there for dinn instead- def wont be coming back to nada next time i am in town :(
(2)
Jennie K.
Most generous and thoughtful wait staff on EARTH. Please read! 1) Hubs and I are visiting from Seattle, needing bomb Mexican food- Nada delivered on multiple fronts. Chips are like crack, without the deleterious side effects like divorce, lowered inhibition or rehab. Guac, yes please. Tacos that made me feel like I was back in SoCal. Food at Nada = 100% yes. 2) SERVICE = above and beyond. Not only was everyone personable, from the gentleman who sat us, to Aaron who served us to Trevor who brought our food out and may have been the GM the way he was greeting tables, dining experience above and beyond. 3) THE ZINGER!!! Hubs and I leave the restaurant and find the gentleman host standing outside looking for someone. Hubs says, "oh man, looks like someone left on their bill" and then Trevor comes running out of the restaurant after us, with a pint of Graeter's ice cream in hand: THEY GOT US ICE CREAM to welcome us to Cincinnati. Seriously? Can a restaurant be any more thoughtful? They wanted to give us a taste of the city, and there is no way that when we come back, Nada won't be on our Must Visit list. THANK YOU everyone at Nada! Best way to end our very special trip.
(5)
Samantha M.
I'm not sure why I'm not giving five stars. Fourth time here and consistently delicious. Tonight, the service was so outstanding. Megan is a fantastic bartender and for me to say that it means A LOT. Do not miss this place if you are in Cincinnati!
(4)
Holly B.
Friendly service. Nice atmosphere. food was fast and very tasty! Cocktails were perfect!
(4)
Steph H.
I have never written a Yelp review before, although I use this app like crazy. I felt compelled to give a huge shout out to nada, and most importantly, to its staff. This past weekend I had brunch with some friends, and one of them had a medical emergency. Our server, Lydia, had already been super friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, making sure I knew the eggs benedicto with crab did not have lump crab meat, causing me to change my order. During this medical emergency, she was unobtrusive, while asking what we needed from her....really the epitome of what you'd want in such a situation. She even ran downstairs and got us two pillows. The GM, Christopher Todd, was also extremely helpful in the situation, coordinating with the Aronoff Center for a wheelchair. Without a word and without our table noticing, they had brought up our meals to the table, and silently whisked them away when they saw what was happening so we didn't have to deal at that moment. They remade the meals of those of us who remained without asking (telling us they didn't want us eating cold food), and covered the cost of the meals and drinks from the two who had to leave due to the emergency. Words can't express the level of professionalism, but also just being great and real human beings in a time of crisis. Nada, your staff rocks, and I would hope yelp readers take this piece into consideration when they think of who deserves their money! As far as the food...always delicious! I'm obsessed with their chips & guac, and every brunch item I've eaten has been fantastic. The Bloody Marias are super tasty (and strong!), and of course, there are the margaritas. I'll be there again this weekend for a bridal brunch my sister is throwing! Love this place, the atmosphere, and the service and staff. You guys rock!
(5)
Karen B.
THIS IS MY FAVORITE PLACE! Between prickly pear margaritas, chips and guac and their a la carte tacos, I always have an amazing meal! It's a great restaurant in a great location in downtown Cincinnati. Two stories of beautiful classy ambiance, this Mexican restaurant surprised me when I moved here. I didn't expect a place in this town to have such delicious Mexican food and put a fancy twist on it. The guac is probably the best GUAC (yes I will keep calling it that) I've ever had and their chips that accompany them are top notch. It's addicting and now that I'm thinking about it, I'm salivating ... Their baja fish tacos with slaw, limo and guac are absolutely the best I've ever had. I only order that when I go there but recently they told me I could venture out a bit and do them a la carte. What? I tried the pork belly tacos and I'm torn. Buttery, melt in your mouth goodness wrapped in a tortilla. YUM-MEE! Get a prickly pear margarita and indulge yourself. It's an experience well worth the price I think. Definitely a great gem of a restaurant in downtown that I don't see going anywhere anytime soon. If it does, I'm moving ... :)
(5)
Aly S.
The waitress quoted us 45 minutes and we sat down within 15. We had margaritas while we waited which were delicious. For dinner, we had several items to share (which is a method I recommend if you have a few people), the most memorable being the pork belly tacos. I mean, I daydream of these things since having them. They were SOO delicious. Our server was very attentive and gave us recommendations as we asked. We had a bottle of red wine with dinner and bourbon for dessert! All around a fun place to spend some time, celebrate, eat and drink.
(5)
Andrew N.
I've been to Nada several times now and the atmosphere has always been very easy going and hip and I have yet to have food that disappoints. There seems to be a trend in this city where all good restaurants have pork belly on their menu, and Nada sits comfortably in that category. Their pork belly tacos come each with a generous slab of pork belly. 3 tacos sounds diminutive, but I usually find myself struggling to polish them off, especially when I've started the night with a beer or two and their chips and guacamole- which are thankfully a far cry from the store bought chips and salsa you might find at other places. If I'm in the mood for something lighter, I go for their fish tacos which are also excellent. Service has been pretty consistent throughout; this last time was a bit slow, but seeing as we had a party of 16 I think its more than okay to forgive them on that front. All in all, it's not necessarily authentic, but its definitely an interesting take on Mexican cuisine and a great place to unwind with friends. There is little in this world better than good food and good company, both of which are easy to come by at Nada.
(4)
Carol J.
The restaurant's decor is very nice, the attention is good, the food is not really outstanding, and the prices are very expensive.To be honest, I will not return to this place again.
(2)
Holly P.
The margaritas are great. Food is really good. You must try their macaroni app. Has a little bit of a bite (jalapeno peppers), but really good. The inside is modern but still comfortable. Their outdoor dining area is just perfect. A little pricier than a lot of the restaurants I frequent, but this is definitely a nice splurge. Food itself isn't that pricy, but with a couple margaritas, dinner and an app, I racked up about a $50 bill for just myself.
(4)
Ariana S.
Came to Cincinnati on a business trip and Nada caught my eye, mainly due to its lovely outdoor seating area on a day that happened to be in the 70's. Being new to the city (and after a day of making decisions), I decided to let my knowledgeable server make all the choices for me. Started off with the guacamole & salsas and the chile arbol margarita. YUM! I probably could have left satisfied at this point but on to the main course!!! Chicken and corn enchiladas were to DIE FOR! Served in a skillet and smothered in cheeses and sauce, I was in heaven. Definitely kept eating past the point of fullness. Nada was definitely a good choice as the food and drink (and service & ambience) all were top-notch. Add to it the fact my dinner guest was straight from Mexico city and was just as pleased as myself....All in all, I give you 5 stars dear Nada.
(5)
Caroline C.
Sit at the bar! Nada has some of the most knowledgable and friendly bartenders in Cincinnati. The Mojito seemed to be the popular drink choice of the night, but I recommend the Caipirinha. Question about a menu item? The bartenders are happy to answer about the dishes as well as the drinks. The queso fundido is delicious and savory (includes caramelized onions and chorizo) and the mexican mac 'n cheese is also ridiculously good (and spicy!) If you're feeling bad about all the cheese you ate as a starter, then try the mahi tacos - they are surprisingly light.
(4)
Sarah L.
Nada is fantastic. It certainly is not cheap, but that's what La Mexicana is for (awesome divey Mexican). I've tasted most of the menu and almost everything is truly impeccable. Only exception, despite popular opinion, is that the fish tacos can sometimes be a little tough and fishy. All the braised meats are outstanding, salsa is fantastic, chips, guacamole, drinks. And it's one of the few places in town where you can get pork green chili. (The Rookwood is another). We've tried brunch once and found it to be delightful as well. In fact, Nada is one of the few places that offers a mimosa at a lower price than a glass of sparkling wine, which I think is the right way to price.
(5)
Rebecca J.
I agree with everyone else, the food is great and overpriced. I mean, $14 for three tacos and that's all folks. WhaaT? They could at least throw a side in there. But I'm not here to gripe, I do enough of that. What I wanted to share is my most recent discovery. If you like hot and I mean freaking hot, ask for the spicy salsa. I wish is it was a little less spicy, but the flavor was rich, bold and had a long finish. I asked what was in it and apparently they won't say, top secret. I'm going to see if I get lucky next time. From what I could tell, it was a mixture of corn, cilantro, habanero, garlic and lime. Total awesomeness, and not listed on the menu foodie friends. Oh and did I mention mashed plantains? I thought I liked them best fried, well not any more.
(4)
Joyce J.
If this place were in a different city in Ohio, it would have gotten five stars; 6 stars for the food, minus one star for being pricey. And since we are in Cincinnati and not in any other town, we will maintain a high standard. The food is excellent, no doubt. I have always enjoyed the creative Mexican food more than the traditional bean and rice. The ceviche here was decent. The cazuela (clay pot) sampler was quite filling. The the service was slightly slow. Overall, a very pleasant experience.
(4)
Brandon S.
Sure, I could talk about Nada's hip, upscale atmosphere. I could talk about their drinks (who doesn't love a well made caipirinha?). I could even talk about their fantastic selection of tacos.... but no. I logged in tonight to talk about one thing: their Mexican Mac & Cheese. Simply put, it haunts my dreams. I sometimes wake up in a cold sweat, the taste of a perfectly melted blend of cheeses lingering on my tongue and the perfect hint of spiciness cutting through all that warm, gooey goodness. And it is in those moments that I know won't be able to go one more day without carving out a chunk of time to experience quite possibly the best mac and cheese I have ever had the pleasure of tasting. Even if every other item on the menu was bland (it's not) and the staff treated you like second class citizens (they don't) it would still be worth checking this place. Do yourself a favor and make it to downtown Cincinnati to try it for yourself. You won't regret it.
(5)
Camilo O.
4.5 stars, really. Everything I've had here has been great, especially the brisket tacos. I've heard wonders about the chicarron tacos as well (I believe that's pork belly?), but I'm yet to try them. Oh, and the Sopes appetizer is freakin' awesome. Having said that, I think they're a little on the pricey side. I also don't care too much for their bar. I've had cocktails here on two occasions and I've never really wanted to since. Overall: Food = Great Drink = Meh Will be back.
(4)
Leisa W.
NOTE: This review is about LUNCH. For dinner, I give them 2 stars for obnoxiousness. OK, so now the disclaimer is out of the way... For lunch, this place is lovely. if you hit it on a nice day, you can sit outside (as we did) and eating outside makes me happy. The chips were good but a bit greasy on the day I went, that can happen from time to time and no biggie. I had the carnitas tacos and they were DIVINE, and the guacamole was good also. I didn't drink since it was a lunch meeting, so I can't tell you about the margaritas. But, overall the experience was a nice one (though a tad on the pricey side for lunch. It's for special lunches, in my opinion). The location is fantastic, a block from Fountain Square and across from the CAC, so that's a big bonus. For dinner though, I don't want to be within 30 feet of this place. After dark (I don't know the specific time), it turns into something like a nightclub, with super loud music and hosts with attitude. If I'm eating, I want to be able to digest my food...and it can't be done with music like that.
(4)
Tracy J.
Another visit to Nada, and it remains on the top of my list for Cincinnati dinning. I rarely give 5's out, Nada deserve one. The food is always perfect, the service is great. The only negative is I cannot get a sampler of multiple tacos on the same plate, it is really dificult to pick my favorite. I recommend the guacamole and any of the tacos, my top 3 are the fish, chicken and carnitas tacos.
(5)
Ryan B.
The menu is quite small, but what I have tasted of it has proved how right this restaurant does its dishes. The chips and salsa, the guacamole, the iron skillets of chicken and chorizo, and especially the mashed plantains will leave you craving for more. And the white sangria was oh-so cool and refreshing. But, the prices. I will not frequent this place due to the dent in my wallet after eating here.
(4)
Brian B.
Went back to Nada last night and had a way better experience. Our server was fun and put up with our constant jokes with a smile and the bus boy even cleared our table while wearing a luchador mask. As before, the food was top notch. The only thing keeping this place from a 5 star review is the price. I'm glad i went back and gave the service another chance!
(4)
Badger M.
Gluten Free heaven--our waitress understood my dietary needs, and knew the menu & ingredients thoroughly. When We asked about the tortilla chips that come from the salsa, she noted that they were all cornmeal, but were fried in oil that was used for wheat products. "usually," she said, "we fry a gluten-free batch in separate oil" (!) They hadn't done that the night I was there, but they kept an emergency bag of GF chips on hand. I had the lamb mole with spaghetti squash, and it was excellent. Deep & complex flavor, not just heat, squash neither too crunchy or overdone. Thumbs up!
(5)
Rob J.
A definite recommend when passing through Cinci. The fish tacos go down swimmingly with a tall margarita! Will definitely stop by again.
(4)
Trisha K.
Not that Nada needs another review, but I'll be review #124. The front desk had 3 overly eager people ready to seat us. NICE! We sat down, but our chairs were less than comfortable. They were like large drums with backs. Strange looking choice, but more importantly non-functional. The water guy filled our glasses and asked if he could get us anything else to drink. We wanted a moment to look at the drink menu, so he said he'd be back. Hmm, is that our waiter or the water guy? He came back and we gave our drink order and then he asked if we wanted guacamole and salsa. Yep, he's our waiter! No introduction, no going over the menu, nada. He was very attentive and friendly throughout the meal, but at the same time seemed so...limp. Anyway, the food. NOT LIMP! O O Ohhh my gosh! We started off with the chips, salsa and guacamole. I give the house made chips a thumbs down (broke easily and greasy), but I really enjoyed the fire roasted salsa. It was excellent! I've been to Mexico twice and both times went on a tour to Chichen Itza. On the return back, the tour bus stops at another hotel where they have sink hole to swim and then they serve lunch. The pulled pork at this place was like nothing I had ever had before or since...until Nada. I ordered Carnitas Tacos and Sopes and both were phenomenal. IF I had to choose one over the other, I'd say the Sopes were my favorite. I will be back to try more!
(4)
Dan M.
I was in Cincy for the first time this summer and was brought to NADA for dinner. The place is downtown, great location. Its a cool looking restaurant from the outside and is a modern two story building on the inside. We were seated upstairs, perfect view. We started off with a few margaritas, which were strong and tasty. They served chips and salsa for everyone to snack on. The server was very attentive and went over the menu carefully with each of us. I went with the Pork Green Chile dish. I thought the meat was cooked perfectly and the flavor of the dish was intense. All in all it was a great meal. It also had the right amount of kick! I was with a party of five and everyone enjoyed their meals. NADA is a great place and is definitely worth checking out when you are in Cincy.
(5)
Laura H.
I went to Nada in a group of girls as part of a bachelorette party a couple weeks ago. We are all pretty low-key and basically wanted a nice place to have drinks and dessert and chill for a little bit. We were seated right away, but the place wasn't at all dead, even though it was a wednesday night. It was a quiet enough that we could talk, but definitely had a fun atmosphere. The staff was awesome and even gave us a free drink for the bride. A couple of us got sangria, which was really good, but what I would really go back for was the mojitos. Seriously. Writing this is making me want to get in my car and drive there right now, and I am now 2 states away. So good. Anyway, when we decided to leave, it had started pouring outside, and we were parked a few blocks away, but we decided to go for it anyway. When we got outside, one of the guys working inside was out there and grabbed a huge (read: HEAVY) patio umbrella and offered to walk us to our car. He took us 3-4 blocks before we decided to just run for it since we were all pretty wet anyway, and he refused to let us even tip him. So... mysterious Nada man is our new hero, and Nada is my top recommendation in Cincinatti. I wouldn't change a thing, even the weather.
(5)
Christine B.
Went here because in passing, another couple we met on a shuttle bus raved about this place and their french toast. Normally I avoid eating carbs and something super sweet for breakfast but DANG it was soooo good. The host described it best as "french toast meets creme brulee meets bananas foster. The bread was something super special that tasted like they make it in house. It was amazing. My husband ordered the chorizo and egg enchiladas and if I was super hungry, I could have ate both meals because they were both really good. We also ordered the guac as an appetizer. We were there for brunch. My husband's bloody mary, according to him, was nothing to write home about, but I don't drink those, so who cares. The only negative was that I ordered an Irish coffee which is a pretty common drink, at least in Indiana and the Chicago area, where we're from, but both the waitress and bartender had no idea what I was talking about. She came black with black coffee, creamer, sugar packets, and a shot of baileys. It was fine and did the job, but wasn't Irish Coffee. (psst, that's what google is for). Great service and very nice outdoor seating area, restaurant is absolutely beautiful on the inside and I would imagine it's a great place for a drink at night or dinner.
(5)
Vinny D.
my favorite restaurant in cincinnati. I am very picky on where/what I eat and my NYC mentality kicks in and I become very needy and wow nada hits all my spots. I have never left this place slightly unsatisfied. I have gone here for just drinks and then gone here for dinner & drinks and place always makes me feel like I'm back in NYC enjoying a great time with my friends I recommend this place to everyone and anyone who seeks my recommendation and I work at a hotel in downtown Cincinnati so a lot of people ask. LOVEEE this place!
Nada-riffic!!!!! So my very fabulous friend Sarah and I had lunch today in downtown Cincinnati. We were supposed to go to Akash (mushroom mater is my favorite!) but she just went yesterday so the dilemma began. Where do we go?????? Rockbottom is too busy, I'm going to Via Vite next week, PotBelly is way too busy, Ingredients is too expensive for what you get...sooo... NADA!!!! God I love freakin Nada! Got the carnitas tacos - again. I always do - I wanted to do one vege and one barbacoa but they were too busy and they come from different lines - blah blah blah. This annoys me a little - I mean - come on guys - how hard is it to get two tacos at the same time? But whatever - the carnitas are amazing and they're limey and full of guacamole and I love them! I don't care that it's $2 for chips and salsa, I don't care that the bartenders have boobs bigger than my head, I don't care that the hostess had a see thru dress on and looked like a robot, I don't care that the water guy is a little creepy, I don't care that the manager is so hot that I nearly wet myself in delight every time he walks by because: I LOVE MY CARNITAS AND I LOVE MY NADA!!!!! Nada most definitely gets my 4 star - Oh my...um...wow...I need a minute here...cuz that is amazing! (Heck so does that hot manager that asked me how my lunch was on my way out - um - only would have been better if you'd been in the taco smothered in all that guacamole!!!!) Until next time...Food Hussy...OUT!
(5)
Kerry M.
It's amazing! A five star review for a Cincinnati restaurant! You have no idea how happy I was to find a place that I really enjoyed during my recent trip back to Cinci. It doesn't happen often...especially when my family lives in the land of the dreaded chain restaurants. So, my mother is on a mission to impress me with restaurants around Cincinnati whenever I happen to be back in town. She takes me to different places, some of which are decent and some of which are definitely not. I am proud to say that Nada lives up to the downtown hype. Good work Cincinnati! My mom and I started with drinks at the bar. It was a Thursday evening and it was nice to see downtown Cincinnati so busy. We asked to sit outside, the weather was amazing, and easily found a place at the downstairs bar when we found out we had a 20 minute wait. No problem, their drink menu looked delicious and I was ready to taste test my way through the options. My mom ordered the blueberry limonada and I had a classic mojito. Both were divine. So much so that I had myself two. =) Plenty of liquor and lots of flavor! When we were seated at our table on the busy patio, we were quickly greeted by our server, Patrick. Can I stop here and say what amazing service we received from him? He was awesome! Thanks, Patrick, for the casual conversation, helpful suggestions, and friendly service. You were exceptional! Now, let me comment on the food. There were quite a few menu options I wanted to try, but I only had one evening and my stomach, unfortunately, cannot fit as much as I'd like to shove into it. My mother and I started with the chips, salsa, and guac. I was surprisingly pleased with the guac...and let me tell you, I am a picky guacamole eater. The chips and salsa were great too. I was thinking about trying some of the tacos, but after some convincing from Patrick, my mom and decided to share the taquitos and Mexican mac and cheese from the appetizer menu. The taquitos were really good...a great balance of flavor and the chicken was super soft and juicy. But oh my god, the mac and cheese was ridiculously amazing. Like seriously delicious! You must order it. I know it's weird to go to a Mexican restaurant and order macaroni and cheese, but you will be missing out if you don't try it. I promise. So yes, I may have only been to Nada once, but my one experience was well worth five stars. The service was excellent, I loved the funky atmosphere (and the patio was super cool), and the food was surprising and fresh. I really loved my entire Nada experience. I hope to be back on my next Cinci visit!
(5)
Samia M.
Nada has a fun, hip vibe permeating throughout the restaurant. While it is not authentic Mexican food but rather a gourmet, upscale take on the cuisine, I nonetheless love Nada for their excellent fish tacos that have yet to disappoint. Not to be forgotten are the guacamole (however the chips can be way too salty) and I especially love the mashed plantains, something I had never heard of until I ate here. I recently came to Nada for a friend's birthday brunch and ordered their version of eggs benedict. It tasted good and I enjoyed the generous amount of special chipotle sauce over the eggs, however I could barely find the crab that was supposedly in the dish somewhere. Also, the portions are quite small for the price (no side potatoes? toast? anything?). I'll stick to dinner.
(4)
Merritt G.
I'm in love with Nada. If someone asks me where I want to eat lunch, dinner, or go to happy hour I always suggest Nada. The chips and salsa are to die for. I almost always get the chicken tacos on corn tortillas. And every once in a while I will get the carnitas tacos. And they are melt in your mouth awesome with a ton of flavor. The atmosphere is very cool and you'll almost forget you are in Cincinnati when you are inside! And the patio is great. My only regret is moving away before they started doing Sunday brunch! I highly recommend Nada... and the sister restaurant Boca.
(5)
Danny S.
Great environment and great food. Did I forget to mention awesome drinks? Want a unique experience? Try Nada!
(4)
Prashant L.
Awesome food. Have good options for Spicy food for people like me.
(5)
Bob F.
What's wrong with this place? Nada.... The food here is excellent, definitely a notch above the authentic mexican restaurants just because of the quality of food and service. However, whether because just because they can or because of the excellent downtown location, you will pay a little extra for this food. My favorite dish here, which is actually the only dish I've tried here, is the green pork chile. It's just not something you can get very many places around here and I absolutely love it. If you have an evening out planned for downtown Cincinnati, you really can't go wrong here either because they have an excellent full service bar with some interesting takes on the classic margarita. Just a fantastic place really.
(4)
Matthew G.
Holy crispy pork belly tacos. Authentic Mexican this place is not, but it is damn good. We ordered the civiche, pork belly tacos, and the trio. The portion size is good and so are the prices for an upscale place downtown. I'm pretty sure it's a sin to eat more than one of those tacos...
(4)
Patrick E.
Love this place. Great environment and good food. Very trendy Mexican restaurant. Guacamole, sliders, and Mac n cheese are the best. One of the best places to check out in Cincinnati.
(5)
Kate C.
I'm probably not gonna tell you anything you don't already know about Nada. It's great for cocktails. It's great for people watching. It's great for drawing people to Downtown Cincinnati. The thing I love about Nada - their homemade tortilla chips. They're deep fried and delicious and crispy and flaky and deserved of their own rehab facility. Also great - the oyster shooter. Sometimes I don't want to eat a bunch of food. If I'm ducking in for a nip with a friend, I might order a couple oyster shooters and a cocktail and call it a night. Another thing worth pointing out: Nada's caipirinha. That drink is deliciously deadly.
(4)
Mitch G.
I've never been here when it wasn't wonderful. The fish tacos are the best ever. Start out with the chips, guacamole and salsa...it only gets better from there. Take friends, sit outside and spend a couple hours under the lanterns swaying in the trees overhead with a frosty tequila. You will thank me.
(5)
James S.
Went to Nada on a recent business trip to Cincinnati. I asked the concierge at the Hilton for a recommendation to a place with good Mexican food and he recommended Nada "It's out that door, one block over, turn left and go one more block. It will be the really crowded place with tables outside. It's worth the wait." He was right - it was crowded and worth waiting 15 minutes. Lots of people out enjoying the end of summer, and the outside seating is nice - great decorative tables, lanterns in the trees. Service was quick once seated, and the waiter described the foods on the menu very well, including recommendations (not just the priciest either). He gave his opinions on dishes I asked about as well. The food - the salsa was smokey and sweet, perhaps over sweet for me. The guacamole was good, but my wife makes incredible guac so it's not a fair comparison - a little more lime and jalapeno would have gone a long way though. However, the fajitas? WONDERFUL! The sirloin steak is a bit non-traditional, but was well-seasoned and tender. The accompaniments though were phenomenally tasteful additions to the fajita - white corn, portobello mushrooms, pickled red onions, rajas, poblano rice, and then some pico, sour cream, cheese, and more guacamole on the side plate. The combination was delicious, with the corn and pickled onions in particular adding some great flavors. I dined alone but I think this would be a terrific place for a fun evening with friends or as a date night - there was intimate seating for two in several places, as well as large tables.
Regular menu gets three stars and brunch gets 5 big stars. So I settled on 4. Must haves if you go to Nada: White sangria, chips and guacamole, both amazing soups, jalapeno mac n cheese, pork belly tacos. This would be plenty to share. We like to try lots of different flavors so sharing for us is fun! The reason I gave the regular menu three stars is because I feel like the items are a little overpriced for the size and ingredients of the dishes. There is a happy hour available at the bar to combat that issue. They have the taste right on! This is a really fun place to meet the girls for a drink and some appetizers after work. The atmosphere is pretty fun too.
(4)
Carolyn T.
We tried to have dinner at a very well-known steakhouse down the street, but we treated poorly and decided to leave. Walking down Walnut we saw Nada and decided to give it a shot. It was amazing!! Best guacamole I have ever had, pork with green chiles was simply sublime and the caipirinha was perfectly made. Most of all the service by Ian was exemplary. He was great- humorous and welcoming. I recommend this restaurant highly. It is a lovely, modern space with great food and an attentive and hospitable staff. We had set out for a ruby and ended up with a diamond!!
(5)
Trenny S.
You must get a Nadarita with whatever fabulous menu item you order. They are the best!
(4)
Bari H.
All I can say is "carnitas tamal with fried egg", crazy good. O! And the gazpacho... Yummmm
(5)
Patty C.
LOVE Nada - hands down, my favorite restaurant. I'm a Mexican food lover, at heart, and I think Nada has, in every category, just excelled. We've been there many times and I've never been disappointed - favorites include the guacamole, mac'n'cheese, fish tacos, carnitas and pork belly tacos! (Oh, and how can I forget the margaritas!) I love the trendy atmosphere (without being pretentious), the good service and fun bathrooms (always a plus). But, just by food and service alone, it's worth a visit!
(5)
Sally Y.
Nada overall has pretty great food, but I'd day it's a little on the heavy side and on the pricier end. When I went for brunch, I had the tinga & eggs for brunch (which I realize is a heavy item to eat) but it was definitely greasy. Regardless, we went on a beautiful day and the patio area is awesome. I've also been inside for events and dinners which has always led to a great time with a fun ambience.
(3)
Gary N.
The food was okay. The service was slow and lazy. I sat at the bar with only a couple other people and I had to wait until all of the waiters had everything they needed before I was even asked if I wanted anything.
(2)
Greg R.
What a great spot!! We had a table for 8 and were seated outside, on a beautiful night. The server was attentive and the atmosphere was fantastic!!! Started with a few margaritas, which were excellent. Ordered appetizers (chips and salsa and a double order of guacamole). The salsa's were very tasty and fresh. I'm not a guacamole fan, so I didn't try it but heard it was delicious. Everyone's entree's were fantastic! Had a few orders of the Churro delivered for us to share for dessert. They were still warm and very light with good flavor. Next time we're in Cinci, we'll be back!!
(5)
C M.
This was our third time in. Jake was great. Very quiet, but he was very professional and attentive as was the manager. Of course, we had to say hello to Lydia. She was our server the very first time we came in. As out of place as we feel in our new home in the tristate, Nada has a vibe of home. I mentioned in passing how before the end of the year I am transitioning to pescatarian to vegetarian to full on vegan by the end of the year. She came back to our table with a suggestion for my dietary needs - veggie tacos, sub kajos, add (charred) corn with a side of Kreeper salsa (no shrooms if you are like me and don't dog on the texture). Yay, Lydia for once again going above and beyond for the out of place Floridians with discerning tastes in dining!
(5)
Katrina L.
Sitting outside on the patio was great. Perfect location and view of the CAC. Chips were $2 but tasted really good so I'd recommend getting them. I had a small salad that had too much avocado mashed into it - but had a good taste. I also had the short rib Sopas which tasted delicious - short rib was cooked perfectly. Service was good. Food was a bit pricey and portions were small. My friend got the tacos and they don't come with sides or anything.
(4)
jenn s.
Lots of pros: - Great outdoor space with lanterns and trees - a rarity in cities - A handy valet stop right around the corner from the entrance - Delicious food. I got the salmon tacos and handed back a clean plate. It was that great! - Helpful staff and bartenders. We were newbies to bourbon but since we were so close to Kentucky wanted to try a bourbon drink. The bartender spent a good 10 minutes walking us through the different options and even history of some of the local ones If I lived in Cincinnati this place would be a go-to spot
(4)
Scott M.
Trend-mexi decor is nice. You can get 3-dollar poblano rice. Prickly pear margarita on ice, comes with a ten dollar price. Despite the expense I'd go twice. Nothhhhiiiiiiiiiiiinnnnng.
(4)
Tom G.
No mas to the margaritas. There is no question that Nada has excellent food. The chicken and corn enchilada was spectacular and everyone at our table was raving about what they were having but...everyone was also very disappointed with the margaritas. Maybe it was just the bartender but she should have known that too much citrus will kill any drink. Her concoction was undrinkable. Most people either switched to beer or sampled the pitcher of delicious sangria. I suggest you do the same.
(3)
Samantha G.
I love this place. I have never been and not loved it. The shrimp tacos are a go to, but the last time I went I tried out the Salmon tacos and they became my new favorite. They always give me extra extra jalapeños when I go even when I just ask for a few. The margaritas are of course the highlight of this place. You can get pitchers or just single drinks of them and they have many to choose from. The Nada-rita is my favorite though. It's classic, never too sweet and never too strong. The guacamole tastes homemade and fresh and their chips are perfect (great app to share). The service is great and the environment is exactly what I like. Very open and in the middle of Downtown so it's walking distance from the Aronoff, the Banks, and local bars.
(5)
Jesica L.
This is a very happening restaurant as we made reservations for 4 people less than 2 weeks away and were lucky to get in. A friend of a friend who used to live in Cincinnati recommended it for our girls night out as we were from out of town. The restaurant seems to be in a great part of town with lots of bars and lounges in walking distance. The decor wasn't as upscale as I envisioned it to be but it was still nice, just more on the casual side of things. The service was fantastic as we were seated in a few minutes and had a really attentive waitress. She helped us figure out what to order and highly recommended the Yucatan chicken which I ordered. The three of us wanted to split 3 entrees and were worried that it wasn't going to be enough food since 3 small tacos doesn't sound like a lot. It was plenty of food and I couldn't finish my meal. We also ordered guacamole with chips as an appetizer. The guacamole was delicious but the chips were too salty for my taste. The rest of the food was very tasty. I preferred the Yucatan chicken over the tacos. The food isn't authentic exactly, but it had it's own twist on Mexican food that worked. Everything is relative, so compared to the Mexican food I can get my hands on in Lexington, Kentucky, it's amazing! The drinks seemed to be a high selling point as well and complement the food really well.
(5)
Heather W.
Get the mexican coffee and the huevos rancheros. Chips are delicious and they bring you specific gluten free ones. The vegetarian tacos make you not miss the meat and the margaritas are addictive.
(4)
Allison B.
Love Nada! You must get the guacamole and kobe beef sliders. Simply amazing! It's one of those places you can take a client for lunch, or go for a date. Plus, it's in the heart of downtown so once you finish you can hop to a bar, or fountain square easily. Highly recommend if you've never been!
(4)
Luke S.
Is the food good here? Yes Is the location one of the best in the area? Yes Is the atmosphere modern and trendy? Yes Is the service good? Yes Do I come here often? No This is a great place to impress your friends from out of town. But if I want a more affordable and delicious taqueria I will go to Django on the North side. And if I want a ridiculous amount of inexpensive Americanized Mexican food I'll go to El Rio Grande in Newport. I don't want to give this place a bad review because it is good and the place itself is very nice but it is not one of those places that I find myself at very often. If you do go I don't recommend the tacos but I do recommend ordering the creeper salsa...it's great.
(3)
Kimberly J.
This was my first trip to Nada. It was a girls night out with a friend of mine that I rarely see. We made a reservation (and thank God) at the urging of another friend of mine. We were dining on a Friday night and you absolutely want to make sure to make a reservation on the weekend. This place looks so, so, cool on the outside with a really neat patio area complete with fired pit- like areas. However, the restaurant itself is TINY. Oh and LOUD. Even with out reservation we were shown to an incredibly tiny table crammed next to another tiny table and couple. We ordered the salsa trio and let me just say their chips are amazing! And the green avocado based salsa will blow your mind. We both ordered tacos. Shrimp for me and pork for her. Bonus, my shrimp tacos had that awesome salsa on them! They were super fresh and very tasty. However great the food was---the service was terrible. There were next to no waiters in the place and we couldn't ever find ours. Sitting for over 10 minutes before we were greeted and never being checked on. Heck, we couldn't get our check for almost 20 minutes after we had finished! Overall--5 star food. 2 star service. And 3 star atmosphere.
(3)
Camilla W.
Excellent service! I met a couple of friends here for brunch to celebrate one of their birthdays. I got my friend a tiara to wear as a joke for her birthday gift. The server picked right up on it...next thing you know he brings her a Disney Princesses cup for her water and a rose with a Disney princesses gift tag that said, "Happy birthday from the Nada kingdom." It made for an entertaining brunch that none of us will forget!
(5)
Stuart G.
Great service. Neat atmosphere. Out of bounds flavor. Save room for dessert: the torte is worth it.
(5)
Nathan M.
Not overly impressed. If you want to spend a lot of money for black beans, small portions and good "looking" food, this is the place for you.
(2)
Mary C.
The four of us were in Cincy for a wedding, but still managed to sneak out for a few good meals. First Nada: the best Mexican food I've had in years, compares with Phoenix and Chicago. The four of us started with an order of Guacamole, Ceviche Mixto, and Butternut Squash Soup, as well as an order of Margaritas around. A good start, especially the Ceviche and the Mixto, with all passed around, For some odd reason, we each wanted a taco. We normally pick further apart on the menu. Nevertheless, we ordered tacos as follows: Shrimp, Pork Belly, Carnitas, and Cazadores. Again, all shared. Each had a different favorite, with the Shrimp and Carnitas being favorites of mine. The Pork Belly was very good, but a bit heavy with the amount of the rather large servings. And, of course, another round of a slightly different Margaritas (we were walking back to the hotel). We finished with coffee and shared a Butterscotch Flan (didn't really have room for more). Only one bad note: our server had perhaps only four tables filled upstairs where we were. The downstairs was packed. It was obvious that he wanted to get us out. He was rushing us by 8 p.m., and told us the restaurant closed at 9 p.m. When we pointed out that the posted hours were 10, he commented "oh yeah". We tipped 23%. He deserved less but the food deserved a good tip. Would definitely return.
(5)
Brian M.
I am a bit biased as my wife and I were fortunate enough to have our rehearsal dinner at Nada. The staff was very helpful and attentive on that evening, and their service has never faltered ever since. There dinner is great, but I find that this has become our brunch spot. My go-to brunch selection is their Eggs Benedict with crab. Plus my wife and I always supplement that with their chips and trio of salsas, which includes the Kreeper. This is a homemade salsa that, as you may guess, has a spiciness that creeps up on you. To round the meal off, their Bloody Maria is a nice Mexican twist (with Tequila) on the traditional Bloody Mary.
(5)
Joelle P.
Cincy Cindy knows her food, so whenever I'm with her (especially in her city), she orders for me. This time at Nada was no different - and I have never been so grateful that I put her in charge of all my food related decisions. I was already in a good mood due to the beautiful weather and fun company, plus we were sitting on their great porch, just people watching and talking - a few of my favorite things. But when my prickly pear margaritas came out, I fell a little bit in love with this place. It wasn't until the pork belly tacos come out, however, that I genuinely considered moving cities just to be closer to these tacos. I'm a pretty girlie girl (i.e. I try to be polite and have "table manners"), but I was literally licking the plate...something a laughing Cindy has brought up about 5 times since it happened...2 days ago. I literally licked the plate...me. The fussy princess. We were headed to the Taste of Cincinnati so we didn't order more than the pork belly tacos so we could save room...but I've been so impressed with the deliciousness found in Cincinatti that I'm already planning a return trip...which will definitely include pork belly tacos from Nada.
(5)
Israel S.
Since most places were closed on Monday night we found Nada. This place has a great atmosphere, very friendly staff, great drinks, and really good guacamole! we did find their tortilla chips to be a bit too salty but they were quick to take them back and give us some that were less salty. I tried the pork belly tacos and they were delicious! My wife got the chicken tacos and those were also very good! I had a Prickleypear margarita that was delicious and my wife had the sparkling sangria which was equally as delicious. if you're looking for not so authentic Mexican food this is the place to go! they had a very nice bar and the crowd seemed to be on the younger end of the scale.
(4)
Jordan W.
This place is very average. Trendy atmosphere and menu, sometimes it's good (pork belly tacos with an egg are amazing, to be fair) sometimes it's "eh." What is consistent, though, is the far below average service. There seems to be a lot of turn over here (I work nearby and it's convenient for an after work pit stop - I've been quite a few times). The waiters sometimes don't know the menu very well and then other times they're just rude (commenting negatively on the amount of food my dining mate ordered) Bottom line: I might come back to get a pork belly taco when the craving is too great, but I won't be back to enjoy a nice relaxing meal. There's too many other great places with great service in the area for me to waste any more money here.
(3)
Jacqueline M.
This update is rather over due, but definitely needs to be done! The manager promptly contacted me after our poorly serviced evening. We arranged a time to come back for my birthday to give it another go. This was the NADA we were accustomed to. The manager was so polite and seated us over looking a large window in a secluded nook. Our waiter was OUTSTANDING. I am trying to remember his name but he was professional, quick and very nice. Management knows who he is, I believe he is the "best server" several months or quarters/years in a row. Anyway, we will only come back for this server! Our food was cooked perfectly. We shared salsa sampler, a large caesar salad, an assortment of tacos and several margaritas. I have to say my favorite was the sparkling sangria and will be my "go to" drink from now on! Well done NADA you have restored our faith! Treat everyone like this (with respect and reasonable efforts) and you will have 5 stars across the board!
(4)
Brooke M.
This was my first trip to Nada and I have to agree that the food was awesome. The only disappointing part of my entire meal was that my chips for chips and salsa were all crumbs.
(5)
AJ D.
Great food, great location, great concept. A staple of downtown.
(4)
Ron G.
Get the mac and cheese. :) If you have time sit at the bar and chat with the bar tender. He is a wealth of knowledge about bourbons, and other liquors.
(4)
Pamela F.
Great location across from CAC, but service lackluster. Many conventioneers. Mediocre food and slipshod lackadaisical table service. Bakersfield a much better vibe at 1/3 the price.
(2)
Lucas W.
I've been to Nada a handful of times now and every time, I have to say, it's fantastic. Just delicious in a great atmosphere. I've started with the queso dip, the guac, and the salsa on different occasions. The queso dip is actually really good, not overly cheesy but with great flavor and clearly real cheese. Highly recommend. The salsa is more of a smoky red salsa and not overly spicy. I really like both so I found it good. The guac is, I have to say, the weakest option at Nada. It's very mediocre, served in a small plastic bowl, and there isn't that much of it. Better option is to get something else. Then go straight for the tacos. They come in sets of 3 and 3 tacos will be plenty of food. Don't even bother looking at the rest of the menu. These are some phenomenal tacos. (Maybe a bit overpriced - especially if you order them individually - but oh so delicious). Salmon Taco - Grilled salmon! Love that it's not fried like so many fish tacos. The salmon tastes great and each taco comes with a very plentiful helping of salmon. The salmon is then covered in some corn guac which perfectly matches with the salmon to create this light but very flavorful taco. My favorite. Pork Belly Taco - Delicious. Slightly crisp with good flavor and you can add an egg for a wonderful addition. The egg definitely adds this great texture and flavor to the tacos. But the egg isn't a dollar like we were told, it's $3 though, 1/taco which unnecessarily feels like getting nickle and dimed. Barbacoa - the meat is great and has a good flavor but is rather singularly flavored. I asked for and added a bit of hot sauce and it really took the taco to the next level. The diablo sauce that they offer isn't spicy at all, ask for extra hot sauce. Looking forward to returning!!
(5)
Megan P.
It was okay. Expensive for what it was. Definitely fancy style and the food was good but nothing super special.
(3)
Kennie G.
I have been here a few times now, and I keep hoping that I'll have that "wow factor" experience people keep telling me I'll have. Now, the food is very tasty, and I'm always a fan of tasty food, but it's overpriced. I've tried a few different things on the menu, and I've liked it all, which is why this place leaves me so torn. Great food, but ok service and ok atmosphere makes me want to go somewhere else to pay a bit less. I will return, however, if for no other reason that to try them out for this happy hour I've heard about.
(3)
Ryan H.
Enjoyed my meal at Nada. Stopped by for lunch on a Saturday and it was really busy. Took a seat at the bar and ordered a small guac and the barbacoa tacos. Both were excellent. Pacifico is on draught and the vibe is fun. It's a two level restaurant and they have a great patio space out front for nice weather days. Would go back again when in Cinci.
(5)
Josh S.
Food is excellent. Portions are small but the price is fair. Atmosphere is both fun and classy.
(4)
Julia C.
Delicious food, great atmosphere, and wonderful service! My boyfriend and I split the fish tacos and chicken taquitos, and both were delicious. I also had the butternut squash soup, which was my absolutely favorite of everything I tried - SO good. The gelato and churros were also delicious. Our server, Ruth, was great - attentive, very friendly, and gave wonderful recommendations! I will definitely be back. Oh, and the mac & cheese....wow!
(5)
Heidi F.
I've been to Nada before during Happy Hour and for dinner, but I just recently made my first trip to Nada for Brunch. We had a party of 5, and made reservations for 10:30am (that's when they open for Sunday brunch). The reservation wasn't really needed, we were able to be seated right away and there were still plenty of available seats. Keep in mind, Nada has an upstairs with a bar in addition to the first floor and patio. The French toast was delicious. I have a serious sweet tooth, so it might not be for everyone. (My favorite breakfast foods borderline some peoples desserts.) The service has been spot on each time I have visited; helpful staff and just the right balance of attentiveness (not helicoptering, but also not like they forgot about you). I tried a little bit of everything at brunch... French toast, salsa trio (highly recommend, it's also on their happy hour menu), queso, guacamole, pork belly tacos, chicken tacos... The only thing I have been disappointed in is their plain tomato salsa. Everything else is just so good, that the bland tomato salsa just sticks out as being sub-par in my book.
(5)
Sherry T.
Today was the first time I experienced happy hour at Nada. The following includes the good, the not-so-good, and the whatever. The good: first, Nada seems to have resolved the "secret" happy hour issue complained about in other reviews. By that I mean there was no question it was happy hour, because the hostess made it clear as soon as we walked in the door. Second, both the Nadarita and the ceviche were very good. We also enjoyed the chips, which had a nice crunch and were not overly salty. The not-so-good: first, being required to sit at the bar to participate in happy hour sucked. Second, although the bartender was friendly enough and made great drinks, he was slower than molasses. My friend and I tried desperately to make eye contact with him on many occasions to no avail. She finally gave up and called out to get his attention. We also waited forever for our check, despite being seated directly in front of him. I observed that other patrons were annoyed as well. The whatever: the pork belly taco that so many others rave about was, well, whatever. Perhaps I simply do not appreciate pork belly the way others seems to, or perhaps it really was nothing special.
(3)
Michael T.
Firstly, the restaurant was immaculately clean. The decor was modern and well kept. Secondly, if you're looking for authentic Mexican, this is not your restaurant. That being said, it was an awesome "modern" twist on Mexican favorites. The food was delicious, but for the price, the helpings were small in size. Also, if you're not a huge fan of spice, make sure you ask for the dishes with minimal spice, or for them to make a non-spicy version. Our waiter was super knowledgable and attentive. Other than smaller portions, I have no complaints. I would recommend it for anyone looking for a light meal while in the area.
(4)
Jessica N.
I have to agree with other reviewers that Nada is consistent. I have been here multiple times over the past couple of years, and the food is always awesome. I am especially a fan of their brunch, though it is definitely more of a special occasion brunch spot. The last time I went to Nada for brunch, I ordered the carnitas tamal & egg. I will break it down for you: corn tamal under spicy pork, topped with avocado and pickled onions, and then glorified with an over-easy egg. This is something I wish I could eat everyday, minus the digestive problems that would surely ensue, especially if I were to order churros to finish off the meal... which I did. No regrets. If you do want to indulge in Nada's brunch, I recommend you make reservations. Our party of two made reservations for 11:30AM on a Sunday and had we not, there would have been no way we were getting in there.
(5)
Robert W.
Please bring back the old recipe for the shrimp tacos. I tried one of the new shrimp tacos last night and it was not very good. The pork chop was excellent as always but seriously the new shrimp tacos have to go.
(4)
Devon C.
Nada was the first restaurant I've ever been to in Cincinnati. I tried it while in town interviewing for my current job. I've now been to Nada two more times since that day and each of my dining experiences has been better than the last. If anything, their consistency alone puts them above their competition. Nada has definitely become one of my favorite restaurants in downtown Cincinnati. They have a very trendy and upscale ambience with outdoor seating and a great location in the heart of downtown (right next to the Aronoff Center). Their staff is always friendly and their meal and drink recommendations have been on point. My favorite menu items would have to be the pork ones: I love the barbacoa tacos and the pork green chile enchiladas. The pork will melt in your mouth and you will savor the deliciousness so much that you won't want to swallow. I definitely recommend this place to anyone in the mood for Mexican food.
(5)
Shannon H.
Ok so nada has a really nice atmosphere for drinking margaritas with your girlfriends and just hanging out. I love their chips and salsa they are delicious but I think their food is overpriced for what you get. Their tacos are quite expensive for what you get and considering you can go right down the road to Bakersfield for a cheaper and more delicious taco. Nada is bigger and has a more upscale feel to it so I will give it that. Their outside seating area is really nice for nights where the weather is good.
(3)
Gabe S.
This is one of my favorite places to go in downtown Cincinnati. The atmosphere is very nice with a great seating area both indoors and outdoors. Our food was fantastic, and our waiter gave us in-depth explanations of our dishes as well as very good recommendations . The food was brought out promptly, and was cooked to perfection. The service was some of the best I've ever had and I was extremely pleased with the entire meal.
(5)
Joe M.
After a long day at the office, our team decided to grab some dinner and drinks together and decompress from the busy day. One of the hot spots to do that at is apparently at Nada, a sort of Mexican fusion restaurant. It was packed with young pros looking to take the edge off with a margarita, and we were looking for exactly the same thing. I started with their sparkling sangria, which was full of yummy fruits and a refreshing bubbly-ness. They don't offer chips and salsa on the house, so we ordered some guacamole and queso dip, which came with some salsa and chips. The condiments were yummy, and I particularly liked the fresh guar with their warm chips. I didn't like that you had to pay $2 for chips and salsa and find that much of the chips were just broken shards. For my meal, I ordered their popular pork belly tacos, which came three to an order, but without a side. For $15, I was terribly disappointed at the overcooked, basically fried bacon in a tortilla. If we didn't have the guacamole and queso, I would have been left with the most boring tacos in the world. Flavors were just so-so and very unspecial. Service was friendly but not terribly quick. This place is pretty darn expensive for what it is and we somehow managed to average out to about $42/person. How that happened I'll never know, but thankfully the company picked up the tab. Otherwise I don't think I'd go back. Food: 6/10 Service: 7/10 Price: $$$ Atmosphere: 6/10
(3)
Mark T.
I've been meaning to write a review for a few weeks now. Last time I went was when my friends took me here for a brunch after my birthday weekend. I just got back from a Vegas trip. The manager found out and held an impromptu blackjack game with the table. Service is above and beyond! On top of that the food is delicious for brunch, lunch, or dinner. I've never had a bad meal here.
(5)
Devika A.
All about this chip trio to begin! 1) Sangria Pitcher on a date 2) Tacos as an appetizer if you're in a group (bbq pork is amazing) 3) Green chile/ pulled pork enchilada dish is so tasty and you always leave with a few leftovers I've never had dessert here although I would like to try. Also, you might want to make a reservation here just to be safe, especially if you want to eat here on a Friday or Saturday.
(5)
Robin L.
Ug, the epitome of over-rated and over-priced. I've given this place a fair shake since everyone is always falling all over themselves about Nada. But to sound puny, nada is the way I feel about the menu. It's insanely priced and incredibly boring. If I wanted a damn good taco I could get that elsewhere for under $5. Nada asks about $15. Nada is on my never again list...unless I find myself in downtown Cincy and need a margarita but no food.
(2)
Jeremy R.
Ever since arriving in Cinci a year ago I have been to Nada over 5 times. It is an excellent place for dates and to just relax with your friends. The food is absolutely amazing and the service is equally as high quality. I LOVE NADA
(5)
Amanda S.
Excellent food and atmosphere - a little noisy at times. Chips and salsa are a must!
(4)
Chase J.
This may have been the best Mexican food I have ever had! While nada is certainly pricey you get the high quality that you pay for that plus its location right next to the Aronoff makes this a no brainer for fantastic restaurant. The service was helpful attentive and very polite not to mention incredibly nice, and the food oh my god the food. It was almost a religious experience, and I will finish this by saying if your near nada and you don't try it you are doing yourself a massive disservice
(5)
Rosita C.
Can I say over-rated and not authentic Mexican? Definitely not. Nice interior and fancy place with outrageous prices but you are paying for their location. Food was mediocre at best and definitely would not call it Mexican atleast people who have had good Mexican food in the Southwest and Mexico itself would not call this authentic. Gringo food...
(2)
Michele G.
Nada is the perfect name for this restaurnat. Food was so bad the manager ended up taking care of the bill for us. $12 for 2 little tacos with tasteless meat and a piece of red onion is crazy. I would have no problem paying that if the food actually tasted good. I do have to say the salsa they bring to the table is very , very good but the rest is just lacking taste. Some of the items I saw coming out of the kitchen looked good, but nothing we ordered was good. Sorry, I really did want to like this place but just can't recommend!
(1)
Krystin M.
Went with a group for a special occasion and I cannot say enough wonderful things! The staff was so lovely. They were attentive and everyone's order was correct and delicious. They also took a moment to take our picture for us and joked around a bit. We ate outside which was great, but the inside was beautiful as well. Since they are a little pricey I probably won't be back just to fill my Mexican food craving, but for other special occasions.
(5)
Amanda T.
It is in a fun area of town. My friend recommended it to me when I moved here. The staff is very friendly. I liked their salsa. My friends and I sat outside for dinner and it was not too loud and felt safe. I tried the vegetarian tacos, which were pretty good. You have to pay for the chips and salsa though. We did not have to wait and it was a good ambiance.
(3)
Amanda H.
I love Nada. The brunch is amazing as is there fish tacos. (Seriously, best ever!) The only downside is its always crowded and not family friendly. But its a great place to go to for a girls night out.
(4)
art s.
Convenient location triggered the visit, solid food made me glad I went. Chicken and corn enchiladas were addictively good and the Mexican mac n' cheese was a terrific side choice. Only thing I'd change is next time I probably won't order a Guinness with my meal (yeah, I ordered a Guinness at a Mexican place). First, just got the bottle placed on the table. Next, when I asked for a glass I got a chilled margarita mug with some residual salt on the lip. Sub optimal Guinness savoring circumstances. But kind of my own fault.
(4)
Tejus P.
As solid of a spot as you can find in Cincinnati. As a flaming texan i was excited to see how the north interprets good mexican food and, in this case, the much anticipated Nada tacos. Pre-taco: - The service is hit or miss. I have come here a couple of times and its either really good or really bad, but nowhere in between. - The sauce is solid but they only give you red sauce, nothing of the green variety. - The chips are very nicely cooked and on the salty side (which is what i liked). - The drinks aren't out of this world. We ordered a few pitchers of the Nada margarita which was alright but nothing special. - The appetizers are pretty good, my favorite by far was the Mac' N' Cheese. The Taco Meal: Essentially THE thing at Nada are it's tacos. You have the option to get 3 of the same taco for a cheaper price, or individual tacos at $6.50 each. I got 3 tacos each time i went, all different. I'll be completely honest they are all fairly good so it's smart just to go with your personal preference of protein. Tip: Do NOT get the egg on the pork belly taco, this is the one and only time I would say don't put egg on anything, but it overpowers the taco. Overall, a great place to bring out the little mexican in you.
(4)
Jenny Z.
Having grown up in California and sampling many a Mexican meal, this restaurant hits the mark as authentic. The food is wonderful and fresh..the chips alone are the best I have ever had. I know that the restaurant attracts a young crowd but authentic Mexican music would definitely suit the atmosphere. There is so much contemporary music that has a Mexican-salsa feel that's fun, lively and loud. You can go to any other restaurant and here hip music..this place is special and the music should match that.
(4)
Toree C.
I love Nada, the food was great & the service was so friendly. Unfortunately, my husband was not impressed. We were there for a brunch date, but the seating is pretty close. We were nearly elbows to elbows to the couples on either side of us. This together with what he felt were small portions, I'll have to go again sans the hubby. The cafe emborrachado is worth going out with friends for.
(3)
phil b.
Our first visit to Nada and we can't wait to go back. This restaurant was great! The food was soooo delicious. I ordered the pork chop (cooked sous vide) and it was probably the best I've ever had. My wife had salmon tacos and loved it as well. For an appetizer we had the guacamole for two and it was also great. It was a little noisy, but we loved Nada!
(5)
Sasha R.
Delicious is an understatement! This place will blow your taste buds away! The food was not only delicious but flavorful cooked to order and priced just right! Staff members are friendly and welcoming from the hostess to the waiters and even management, we even met one of the cooks! If you're in Cincinnati don't want to miss this jewel. The Mexican food served and the flavors of the different dishes made this Cuban excited to be here!
(5)
Ty S.
Great ambience for a dinner date for two. A little cramped if you have a bigger group. The fish tacos and shrimp tacos rival Bakersfield (my wife actually thinks they are better). The blueberry limonada is an extreme guilty pleasure. Cool place to eat before going out, but you better make reservations well in advance. Same day calls for dinner land 930 or 10 o'clock times.
(3)
Bilinda B.
I was sooooooo disappointed for Nada. :( we were very excited to try it for the first time as a double date (with my bestie and her bf) and at first were very impressed with the decor and the friendly staff. We sat on the top floor kind of in a corner of a party room and the table was cramped and dark. We all ordered drinks which were over priced for what they were in my opinion. The specialty 'house beer' tasted like they poured a miller light in my glass and then charged me $13. We ordered our food which was mostly tacos with different insides and out of the 4 of us, 0 ate more than one. All of the food, appetizers and all, tasted like they had been in the freezer for a few months and the spice on my shrimp tacos was almost intolerable. About 5 minutes into our meal i asked how my girlfriends was and to my surprise she said it was awful. that's when the boys chimed in that they thought it was just theirs and it's funny we just said that because they were just going to eat it anyways. All in all a bill for us 2 (2 orders of tacos and 2 beers) was around $60. I don't think we will be back for seconds.
(2)
Gina M.
The hubs and I were in town for a wedding and came here for a very late "brunch" on Sunday. Not only was the food super tasty, but our server was absolutely amazing. For starters, we ordered the salsa trio (all three were delicious but the hottest one with corn was to die for!), the guac (really good) and the queso dip (holy giant vat of cheesy goodness!). For our entrees, the hubs got the shrimp tacos. First of all, you get 3 tacos but they are HUGE! We were expecting small tacos and were surprised when we got 3 regular sized tacos in flour tortillas. The shrimp tacos were tossed in a spicy sauce and paired with arugula. Simple, but the arugula made for a nice peppery taste. I ordered the pork belly tacos. When I ordered the dish, our server recommended adding a fried egg to the tacos. Ummmmmm...OKAY!! The pork belly itself was thick and super tender, the pickled onions made for a nice contrast to the pork and the egg just set everything off! It was so good I was so sad that I could only eat one! They were just too big! LOL A definite return visit when we are back in town!
(5)
Amy T.
I doubt Nada needs another glowing review, but let me give a shout-out to their Sunday brunch. My husband had the French toast - it's proper French toast, with a crispy outside and creamy inside. This one had the flavor and consistency of bread pudding. Served with a helping of caramelized bananas, pecans, and whipped cream. Dessert for breakfast at its best. I had the Huevos Rancheros, which was delightfully spicy and rich. Some of the tacos and starters (Mexican Mac and Cheese, Boca Fries) are also on brunch menu. Also, Sunday brunch at noon was nowhere near as crowded as weekend nights are in Nada. So if you want your Mexican on the laid-back side, try brunch.
(5)
Jeannette A.
One of the better if not best restaurants in Downtown Cincinnati...i've been here twice and was very impressed by the eclectic menu and the service was superb. I will be eating here again when i'm in the area.
(4)
Susanna B.
Would I recommend Nada? One word: nada. My boyfriend and I have been meaning to go here for a while and finally made it there this weekend along with a couple of out-of-town guests. The crowded patio, festive lights, and modern, colorful interior seemed to promise a fun evening, but sadly the meal was mostly downhill from there. We ordered a pitcher of the white sangria and a pitcher of margaritas - both of which proved profoundly disappointing. The sangria had no fruit in the pitcher, with four or five measly pieces of fruit in the glasses (isn't the whole point of sangria eating the alcohol-soaked fruit at the end?!) Our margaritas looked, and tasted, like nothing more than Jose Cuervo mix and cheap tequila. As far as the food goes, the chips, salsa trio, and guacamole were decent, but unremarkable. For our entrees, one of our friends ordered the steak fajitas, which came out cold and cooked almost well done. My boyfriend and I ordered the shrimp tacos and pork belly tacos. Once I found the shrimp hiding in a sea of romaine lettuce, it was obvious that they were frozen shrimp out of a bag - pale, limp, puny, and completely lacking in flavor. The pork belly tacos did have a nice crispness and flavor - but really, how can you screw up a piece of meat that is essentially a thick slice of pork fat? We definitely wanted to like this place, but I can't even recommend going here for happy hour despite the patio and festive atmosphere. More than anything we were disappointed that we brought out-of-town friends here when there are a dozen other fabulous restaurants in the area with less hype, lower prices and much better food. Next time I'm in the mood for tacos or guac, I'll be heading back to Bakersfield in OTR or one of the delicious (and cheap!) taco joints in Northside.
(1)
Alexander D.
Events here are crazy fun. We went in Cinci De Mayo and it was excellent. We got a table after a 2 hour wait but we wanted to mingle and get drinks before hand so this worked out well. It is a bit pricier but well worth the money. I love the pork bully tacos with the friend egg. It is making my mouth water as I write this review. Please make a trip if you have never been.
(5)
Michelle C.
ALL HYPE AND NO SUBSTANCE!!!!!! This is clearly "THE PLACE" to go, because the patrons are beautiful, the staff is beautiful, but everything else is sub-par!!!! I was in Cincinnati on a business trip and Nada's came up as the best Mexican restaraunt near my hotel (4 STARS!!!!) and even one of the top rated restaraunts overall. I headed over early on a Tuesday night as I read in the reviews that the place is packed even early in the week. I arrived just prior to 5:00 p.m. and inquired at the hostess stand if I could have a hightop in the bar area as there were only a couple of bar seats open in the downstairs bar and I didn't want to squeeze into the all male gathering. The female hostess was snobbish and completely unhelpful, she curtly said "NO!" and offered me no other options. Fortunately, a male server was happening by and informed me the upstairs bar had plenty of seating. I made my way upstairs to find an empty bar and grabbed a seat...and waited....and waited. Finally the bartender (who clearly hates his job and lacks any kind of costomer service skills) comes out and I order a drink (HE DOES NOT MENTION HAPPY HOUR...THERE IS NO SIGNAGE FOR HAPPY HOUR...THERE IS NO OFFICIAL HAPPY HOUR MENU....ONLY WHEN I AM HALF WAY THROUGH MY MEAL AND ONTO MY SECOND DRINK DOES THE GUY WHO SAT DOWN NEXT TO ME ASK ABOUT HAPPY HOUR AND SURE ENOUGH THERE ARE HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS!!!!!). But onto the food....Chips and Salsa (which are NOT FREE) = MEH, chips are over oiled and fried...salsa is bland...thankfully there was some hot sauce at the bar that I genorously dumped into the salsa. I ordered the chicken and corn enchiladas as I love enchiladas and there were many reviews that raved about them. Chicken and Corn Enchiladas = HEAVY ON THE UNDERDONE FLOUR TORTILLAS, light on the chicken (maybe 1/10 of a standard chicken breast, in an amazingly flavorful sauce! There was SOOOOOO much flour tortilla, that 1/2 way through my first one, I just started cutting through all of the tortilla to get to the tablespoon of filling inside!!!! Why 2 stars and not 1? I like the Sangria Rojo! AND THERE IS A HAPPY HOUR AND THEY ARE $5!!!!
(2)
Esther K.
I grew up in Cali and expensive Mexican seems like an oxymoron. Nada is pricier for Mexican food but it is WORTH IT! Drinks are amazing... LOVE the blueberry drink. Yum. Had an incredibly flavorful meal. Will definitely be back! Awesome birthday dinner!
(5)
Lonnetta P.
This review is overdue. Nada is on my list of favorites downtown. I've been here several times and I always enjoy myself. The valet parking right outside will cost you $8. I utilize this service during this time of year. It's so worth it, especially if a show or other event is taking place. This place is warm and inviting. Staff at the door are friendly and accommodating. The place was packed, so we did have to wait a bit. The wait wasn't bad at all. We actually had time to head across the street to one of my other favorite spots for drinks. After receiving our call, we were immediately seated. I recommend the mac & cheese. Served nice and hot in a cast-iron bowl. It's creamy with a hint of jalapeño. Delicious!
(4)
Dani E.
Went on a Thursday afternoon and was blessed with no wait! After arriving with some friends, our waiter came to the table. He seemed nice, but was not around a whole lot, we waited for refills a lot. I did order the prickly pear margarita and it was delicious, like grown up kool-aid! My friends and I ordered some apps, we got the chips with quac, Mac and cheese and the potatoes. I would say their quac and Mac and cheese was great and the chips melt in your mouth. The potatoes were nothing special. For food I ordered the fish tacos, they were decent, not my favorite but they were okay. Very expensive as well for 2 tacos. I did order a pork belly taco to go for my son when leaving. He did say it was very good but it looked very greasy. Overall I would go back.
(4)
Keith C.
It's refreshing to find a local place that applies modern and creative culinary techniques to Latin American ingredients. Most every major metropolitan area boasts an establishment of this ilk, and I'd say Nada serves that niche for Cincinnati. My family and I happened to go to Nada on one of the most glorious Saturday's of the year - at least weather wise. We were able to walk right up sporting our double wide twin stroller and procure fabulous outdoor seating for our party of four. Upon being seated we were informed that on Saturday for lunch we would have to adhere to the Nada brunch menu while ordering our food which is always a buzz kill for me on my first visit; I like to have the full menu at my disposal. Also, I generally get the feel that brunch menus are just a "creative outlet" for chefs - some can get really over the top though. Nada did a good job of not pouring on too much crazy with the brunch. I think the craziest thing we experienced was the fried egg on top of the Chorizo & Egg Enchiladas. My-oh-my...these enchiladas were crazy good. It's been a long time since I had a dish that thoroughly perplexed my taste buds in a good way. Even though I was at a restaurant, I really felt like that dish was homemade with a lot if time and attention. You could just feel it. Everything else was great too. I was a bit surprised that he guacamole wasn't better (too much lime juice?), but the salsa, queso and gazpacho were all solid. I'm looking forward to heading back to try the full menu.
(4)
Katy S.
Nada is one of my favorite restaurants in Cincinnati. I ate there twice on my recent trip and was very happy with the food and service on both occasions. On trip 1 I was with a big party and made a reservation. We feasted on the chips with salsa, guac, and queso. All 3 dips were so fresh and the chips were fried to perfection. I had some sangria, which was not to sweet and just the way I like it! For my meal, I ordered the chicken and corn enchiladas. I love enchiladas with red sauce and these were the perfect mix of sauce, cheese, meat, and corn. Really really good and very attentive service! On trip 2 I was with a smaller party and sat upstairs. As it was brunch, I ordered a blood orange mimosa (YUM) and the eggs benedict with goetta. I'm not someone that usually orders eggs benedict, but I'm so glad I did as the goetta, sriracha, and avocado really made this dish DELICIOUS. I will likely be a loyal Nada customer for years to come based on the food, ambience and service. Great Mexican spot in downtown Cincy!
(5)
Peter B.
Brunch was top notch. I ordered the "Goettadiction"--i.e. eggs benedict w/ a slice of goetta. They were also able to easily accommodate our group of 10. I will be back as I was very impressed with their brunch menu!
(4)
Emma F.
This place was so expensive for what you got - tiny portions, ultra modern decor, expensive cocktails. I suppose this is a good place to entertain out of town guests or business clients. The food is average - but the location is very near fountain square - and is a great place when bar hopping downtown.
(3)
Tabitha W.
We've now lived in Cincinnati for a whole year, and I had yet to make it to Nada! I've seen many good reviews of the restaurant online, and I love Mexican food, so there really isn't a good reason for it to take so long to make a visit happen. I had just learned that they had pretty good Happy Hour specials, so I made it a point to get out of work early and finally make this Nada visit happen. Sadly, after being seated, we then learned that Happy Hour is only available if you're seated at the bar. It does not mention that on the website at all. I'm not a fan of this practice. Why can't the patrons in the other areas of the restaurant be happy as well? :( Overall, the service was fairly slow, and our waiter randomly changed with no explanation. The food did come out pretty quickly though. I ordered the Nadarita , which was strong and tasty. I started with an order of the Mexican Mac 'N Cheese - a touch salty but otherwise delicious and cheesy. We had a side of the Boca Fries and the Vegetarian Tacos for our entree. All of the food was delicious, but it would have been great to take advantage of some of the happy hour specials and perhaps try a few more dishes/drinks.
(3)
Tim C.
Started out the night with chip and salsa trio plus the Maxican Mac and Cheese. Both were fantastic. I could have eaten the chips by themselves! My wife had one of their Sangria and it was spectacular. I ordered the michelada but quickly realized this was basically a Bloody Mary (not my thing). Sent it back for a fantastic 5 Lizard IPA. Our meals consisted of carnitas tacos and barbacoa tacos. Both were very good and we were both glad we ordered them spicy. We finished off our night with churros and champagne that was given to us on-the-house because it was out anniversary (they will ask if you're celebrating a special occasion if you make reservations in advance). Just a forewarning, the happy hour specials only apply while sitting at the bar.
(4)
Carolyn H.
Joined our friends here for dinner last night. Fun, lively atmosphere. My Paloma cocktails were spot on, if not a little slow getting to the table. Chips and guacamole---yum. The shrimp tacos were good though the tortillas could use improvement (I prefer corn tortillas for tacos) and my hub enjoyed the fish tacos. Servings were generous.
(3)
Nikki H.
This place was recommended to is by our hotel. It was very trendy and they played really great music. We had great service and the food was realllly good!! We had the fajitas and enchiladas .. Delicious and fun!
(5)
Kate H.
The food at Nada is fantastic. Chicken soft tacos are made more interesting with a black bean puree and super fresh guacamole. Chips and salsa are delicious - and I don't eat pork, but all my friends love the pork belly tacos. What is really awesome, though, is the staff. Our server was in training, and very nice. (Wish I could remember his name!) A host named Jordan actually checked in on us during our meal and helped me and my sister get to a show at the Aronoff on time. He was funny and charming, and really went out of his way. He is a real asset to Nada.
(5)
Dale H.
Went here for lunch before an Aronoff Sat. matinee. We had reservations and were promptly seated. The waiter was personable and efficient. Though since he was only 20, he could not give recos on the drinks. But that wasn't a problem. He was VERY patient with all of my questions :o) Food came out quickly and was pretty good. We ordered an app of guac and salsa. The salsa was a nice thickness and was just the right spiciness. The guac was tasty as well. The chips were good. They were warm. Noticed that they have large containers of chips sitting up high in the kitchen. Asked the waiter about them. They are made fresh every morning. They were warmed before serving. A bit disappointed about that.... I asked the waiter for a reco on the tacos. So many had raved about the pork belly tacos on Yelp that I was thinking about those. He said that it is a very rich dish and people tended not to be able to finish them. Went with the barbacoa tacos. Shredded beef short rib with pickled onion on top. They were good. Just good. The flavor profile was nice. There was a bit too much liquid and made the tortillas get soggy and break apart after a while. And that was with the diablo (spicy) sauce on the side! The tortillas were delicious - tasted hand-made. I also ordered a side of the frijoles charros. Beans, bacon, cheese. They were just okay. Only finished about half. Had a nice brunch drink with my meal, a sparkling grapefruit drink with cava. Nice. Overall a good meal.
(4)
Eileen E.
Nada is a great once-in-a-while place. It has a frou-frou atmosphere that is great for that night when you want to go chic. The meals are tapas style and smaller plates, so the bill can creep upwards rather quickly and you find yourself still hungry and 60 dollars poorer. The food is good, but not the hearty "I've eaten too much but it tastes so good I'm going to keep eating" kind of good. It's a sort of Mexican-Hipster fusion kind of menu: start with a burrito, just a small, run of the mill burrito, dress it up in a fancy table side made guac, add some fancy cheese and the word aioli to it, throw around phrases like "essence of smokiness" and "palette teaser" and slap on a 15.00 price tag. Nada is chic, the food is chic. It is not bad, but sometimes, you just want a Mexican meal that leaves you in a food coma, hold the aioli.
(3)
J B.
Conveniently located and a good spot for people watching but the food was so-so. Mostly bland and very heavy on cheese.
(2)
Chris H.
Great food - tacos are always good, but the sliders and the cazuela can't be missed. Fun environment and good service. Doesn't disappoint.
(5)
Kelsey H.
WOW!! Amazing Margarita!! I had the classic nadarita with a salted rim, which was not too sweet, and only as salty as you wish with the salt rim. My sister had some chicken breast main dish with green beans, salsa (spicy!!), and squash which was deeeeelicious! I was fortunate enough that she gave me a taste. I also saw tacos passing by... and I decided that I MUST come back to get a taste! The place was pretty busy for a Tuesday night. They had quaint outdoor seating for when the weather is compatible with your nighttime plans. I only give 4 stars instead of 5 for the service. Our waiter was a bit standoffish... and then he warmed up to us and was very hospitable.
(4)
Libby V.
I just needed a bite of something between brunch that morning and a big dinner I had planned later that night, and spotted this place when I checked into 21C Museum Hotel. "A taco would be perfect" I think to myself and I headed over. As I got close to the door I saw a small sign that said "Happy Hour 3 - 6" glanced at my watch and did a happy dance - it was 3:01. Luck was on my side. Sat at the bar and ordered Tito Vodka ($3), Trio of Salsa's ($2) and a grilled chicken taco ($4). The chips were so good and just the right size to pop in your mouth. The Fire Roasted Tomato salsa was mild, as was the Jalapeno Verde but the Habaneo-Garlic Kreeper had a real bam to it. yelp.com/biz_photos/nada… I enjoyed mixing the combinations - happy as a hog in slop. Then my taco came - Mother of everything that is holy that was a good taco, including black bean puree, pico de gallo, cheese and guacamole. Yes...guacamole. Color me happy. yelp.com/biz_photos/nada… Got my feel and they offered to pack up the chips for me, and I agreed cause thought they would make a good little snack when my girlfriends arrived. They packed up the salsa too - amazing and nice. Did I mention service was wonderful - the best. My entire bill was under $10 (before tip) I can't wait to go back and eat a full fledged meal here. I want the whole experience. Including the Mexican Mac and Cheese. Something to look forward to.
(4)
Dawn B.
Every time I come here I have such an excellent experience. The atmosphere is hip and casual, the food is delicious and the service is outstanding...always! My favorites are the Mac n Cheese and the Vegetarian Tacos...OMG fantastic!! I seriously think I'm addicted to this place.
(5)
Erin K.
Yay birthday dinner! There is a big debate going on about whether Nada or Bakersfield is better. I think this is an unfair debate, because Nada has so much more to offer, whereas Bakersfield specializes in the smaller selection of items they have. Point being, I like them both a lot. We got seats downstairs and I had fun people-watching AND checking out their pin-up girl-esque decor (on the walls, the menus and the bathrooms!) I got the chili-mango margarita and immediately felt like I was back in Mexico, ordering chili-limon covered mangos on sticks. So deliciously tasty, with the absolute perfect amount of spice! We also got the ceviche, which is better than Bakersfield (IMHO) and a bigger portion size as well. Nada's chips are my favorite kind of chips in the entire universe. I'm sure they're fried in some sort of greasy lard concoction, but I don't even care. They crunch and then melt in your mouth while the salt particles dance on your tongue. The best. For the main course, we got the pork belly tacos (holy crap, who came up with this idea - GENIUS!) and the fish tacos, both of which were amazing. I could only eat one of each because I was so stuffed. AND THEN, as we were sitting there waiting for the check, writhing in "it hurts so good" pain because of the amazingly delectable food we'd just inhaled, they brought us churros for my birthday! They weren't the kind of "street" churros I'm used to, but they were still tasty, and drenched in maple syrup. I needed someone to roll me out of the restaurant at the end of the meal. Unfortunately, this isn't a service Nada offers, but their employees still rock the house! Def will be back again! :)
(5)
A-Aron G.
The food here is spicy however, there is good ambiance and good drinks. It's a good date place but should be used as a place for a social night not a work meeting.
(2)
Jessica D.
Nada: Best Interior Design Winner (according to me), 2013. Food on the other hand, 3.5 (Yelp: Suggestion, offer a 3.5 star option!). My boyfriend and I elected to eat brunch here on a lovely Saturday morning, in search for eclectic, original food. His meal, the Eggs Benedict, was far better than mine--borderline exceptional. The eggs were drizzled with a sriracha-lime Hollondaise sauce that was to die for. It had the Soup Nazi effect on me, like I was under a spell. My eggs and tinga cazuela was very average. The braised chicken was a tad salty and very watery, and didn't jive well with the lone fried egg. The chorizo--one of my favorite foods, for the record--was barely detectable. I thought the warm tortilla was probably the highlight of the meal. However, I'll give credit where credit is due, and my blood orange mimosa was worth the $7. Light, bubbly, refreshing. Not too sweet, a nice twist. I was also intrigued by the grapefruit mimosa. Maybe next time, if I return. If you are looking for places that emanate of trendiness, check out Nada. It's a nice place for fresh, casual conversation and progressively styled patios and restrooms. There are better places for brunch in Cincinnati, I am sorry to say...with the exception of the Eggs Benedict.
(3)
Raleigh P.
I've eaten at Nada twice, both date nights. It's the perfect venue if you want to dress up a little but not super fancy. The outdoor area is beautiful - the only complaint is that the table for two was too small. It's not bad except that my 5'10" legs hit the center table leg, my date wasn't in a better position either. Inside, no issues for tall people! The chips and guac were amazing! The fish tacos were perfectly moist without having juice spill out everywhere. The mojitos, oh the mojitos. For any of you who are in love with the minty, sugary, rum beverage - you must get one!
(4)
Rob B.
Nada go here. Seemed a little too trendy for happy hour. Didn't make it past the snobby hostess. Might try again on a different day.
(2)
Brooke P.
What a gem- great location, great ambience, and delicious food. The homemade chips & salsa was also great, and the guacamole was smooth and delicious. i concur with other reviewers that the pork belly tacos and jalapeno mac-n-cheese were to die for, and the service was excellent. This is a good place to go for brunch, a date, or just to catch up with old friends. I also overheard a server say that the restaurant is named "Nada" because the owner means that "Nothing" is better.
(4)
Joe J.
Nada is a great example of the American twist on Mexican food that succeeds. I highly recommend their shrimp tacos for the tangy sauce they add to them. Your have to pay for chips and salsa which is a let down (but only two dollars) and I wasn't pleased with the dessert my girlfriend and I shared either. Overall pretty great place!
(4)
Eric S.
Probably one of my FAVORITE spots for brunch. Overall a great restaurant. Nice outdoor seating section. One of my favorites in Cincinnati.
(5)
Eric A.
The food here is great. We ordered the guacamole and queso funditio to start and they were both great. All of our drinks were also tasty. For starters and drinks I would definitely go back. The only bad thing I have to say about this place is that the taco prices are a little ridiculous. For dinner, I had the pork belly tacos, which were good and filling but definitely not worth $16. You only get three tacos, so that's more than $5/taco! I just moved here from Chicago, where they have plenty of gourmet taco options and non of them are $5/taco and most of them taste even better. ( Try Big Star if you are ever there). If this place lowered their prices, I would be back all the time. Until they do, it's just not worth the return trip.
(4)
Tahirah W.
Nada essentially means "nothing" when translated loosely-but there's definitely "something" about both the food and atmosphere at this place. We all ate varying takes of the taco and everyone raved about the flavor. Everything tasted great and fresh, unlike chain food places or that evil Tex-Mex crap. The baked chips were salty and crunchy, and the guacamole was fresh and delicious. The waitress was easy-going and attentive without being over-bearing, and the atmosphere was trendy without any pretentiousness. When I'm back this way & someone asks about Nada, all they'll hear from me is "Algo, Algo!"
(4)
Ron A.
For the longest time my favorite Mexican place to eat was Taco Bell. I consider myself very cultured and likewise I love to think outside the bun. Then after a small battle with E. coli I discovered better and safer ways to get my Chalupa on. Cincinnati has a few good Mexican joints but nothing stood out as exceptional. Then one day I discovered Nada, and my life hasn't been the same since. Every time I bite into the food at Nada, I feel like Speedy Gonzales on the inside, running around with my little guitar and singing Spanish love songs (even though on the outside I look like his fat lazy friends). I can't say that I've ever had better Mexican cuisine anywhere. The biggest draw for me to Nada is their happy hour. This landmark event occurs every Monday through Friday from 3-6 PM. There are drink specials but keep your focus on the grub. You can get the Salsa Trio for $2 and the Mexican Mac N' Cheese for $4. If all macaroni and cheese in Mexico is this good then I'd consider moving to Tijuana and changing my name to Ronaldo. Of course the full menu offers a host of amazing variety. And I love the location right in the middle of everything downtown. I'll likely see more shows at the Aronoff this year just so I have an excuse to stop in Nada. Next time you have a hankering for Mexican don't run for the border. Run to Nada and truly live mas!
(4)
Peri R.
Food was good. Had chicken fajitas and the chips and salsa trio. Good flavor and plenty for sharing for two. Welcoming staff was a bit snobbish, but overall service was good.
(4)
Brent T.
Great place to go for dinner when you want to go out in Cincinnati. Barbacoa tacos are delicious. Wait staff are all very knowledgeable and service is generally very quick. Restaurant is nicer than your typical Mexican restaurant. But not so fancy that you could only go on special occasions. Nice place for a date or to catch up with friends.
(5)
Tyler M.
Where do I start? I get it...Bakersfield has the cool, trendy atmosphere that caters to the young trendy crowd of Cincinnati. That aside, I don't think it can even compete with the service and product of Nada. I love sitting on the patio of Nada and dining under the dim light of the lamp-lit trees. While I much prefer dining outside at Nada to the interior decor, there isn't a bad seat in the house. I have visited on numerous occasions and have never disappointed with any dish. Having said that, you don't even need to look at the menu: Crispy Pork Belly Tacos. Nuff said. The tacos just melt in your mouth. So much flavor. While the specialty margaritas run around 10 bucks a pop, you shouldn't leave without having a mango margarita. It had a fresh taste with just the right amount of bite from the tequila. While the prices run on the higher side, the food and service will keep me coming back. Easily my favorite tacos in Cincinnati.
(5)
Suzanne M.
When I need to cheer myself up. I go here! If I want to get a fantastic cool crisp treat I get the guacamole and chips of course. I love the chicken taco's the combination of the flavors just flow perfectly. They have perfect packages for take out as well.
(5)
Tiffany C.
4.5 stars! I don't know why I suddenly became a Mexican food lover after coming here...after all, I live in LA and am constantly surrounded by authentic and supposedly delicious Mexican food. Though I have a love for food, when it came to Mexican, those "fake taco" Taco Bell supreme crunchy tacos were pretty much my favorite in taco world (that's a lot of tacos in one sentence :D). I ended up choosing to eat here while visiting my boyfriend in Cincinnati because it was one of the few places with over 200...even over 100 reviews and my boyfriend and I were both hungry after exploring DTCinci on a chilly winter day. The bf isn't a Mexican food fan as well, so this was a stretch from our usual culinary excursions. AMBIANCE: Love the trendy and rather upscale atmosphere this place offers. Waiters are friendly and service is good. Came here for lunch so there were quite a few office workers inhabiting the tables. There are two levels and we were seated on the upper level (I don't know what it is about curvy stairs inside restaurants, but I find them to be so exciting...such a kid...). The restaurant seemed fairly spacious and was a bit dim, but light coming through the windows brightened the place up considerably. FOOD: Chips, salsa, guacamole. Nothing spectacular, but I loved that the guacamole had chunks of avocado in it. I ordered the baja fish taco because I wasn't a fan of more meaty tacos...until I had tried my boyfriend's delicious barbacoa tacos. Now those were SOOO SOOO delicious, I think I ended up making him switch :D Even now I sometimes joke around and ask him to FedEx me some...or fly some over when he visits LA, but alas, that never happens. Anyways, I would love to come here more if I could and to say I miss it would be an understatement. I've even ventured to try popular Mexican places in LA...but it's not the same!!! Maybe I'm just weird...that's probably it.
(4)
Elizabeth S.
Outstanding! Had the best fish tacos I've has in 3 years since moving here from Arizona. Terrific Caiparinha, excellent guac and chips, fun atmosphere and wonderful friendly service. Menu was great. Can't wait until my next visit to NADA!!
(5)
Brijesh K.
Great food! Good Margairta
(4)
Alexandra J.
The Short: the tacos are not good, the guacamole is expensive, but the drinks are OK and the chips were delicious. The Long: the restaurant is more of a bar scene than a place to go to get delicious, authentic Mexican food. I ordered the Baja Fish tacos, which were large but not very appetizing. The fish was bland, the tortillas were flour, and the cabbage (which isn't pickled) didn't really add much. I would not recommend ordering these tacos to anyone. The chips, which are deep fried and heavily salted, are delicious. But you have to pay for chips and salsa, which is sort of ridiculous. This is the only upscale Mexican restaurant I've ever been to where that is the case. The "large" size guacamole was also extremely expensive.
(2)
Ben N.
I have re-evaluated Nada after eight or ten more visits over the last few years, including a visit on a weeknight. I still don't much like the slick "beautiful people" atmosphere at Nada, and the food (especially the guacamole) and drinks are still too expensive. The salsa is still only pretty good. The casual-ness of the service can still be a little grating. All the male servers are apparently trained to act as though they're your "bro." And the pallid, safe, fey, lackluster indie pop that so much of this generation of young urban professionals seems to love is, unfortunately for me, a big favorite at Nada. (It's especially annoying in the wintertime, when Nada feels the need to loudly broadcast this mewling, uninspiried pablum to passersby.) Ugh. But I think I was being contrarian in suggesting that the food at Nada warranted only three stars. The barbacoa and carnitas alone are simply good enough and consistent enough to bump the rating to a rounded-up four. (I had the pork-belly tacos when I went at night, and while they were good, they were cut by the barbacoa and carnitas.) And while the demeanor of the servers can be off-putting, I have to admit that they are very efficient and competent. Food-wise, Nada is very dependable at what it does, and that counts for a lot.
(4)
Caroline P.
I love all the tacos! The fried fish tacos are insanely good. The pork belly tacos are also amazing. BEST mac and cheese in town. The sangria is OK too.
(5)
Tiffany P.
It was just ok to me. Everyone was nice.
(3)
Amanda C.
With food this delicious and thoughtfully prepared, how could anyone complain about the price? Based on how packed the restaurant was early on a Tuesday evening, I don't think anyone sincerely believes that complaint! Seriously, make reservations if you plan on dining at Nada. All the food was perfectly delicious: the delectable appetizer sopes, fresh-smashed guacamole with interesting veggie garnish (the jicama was a nice touch!), pork belly and fish tacos served with complementary slaws and sauces. Oh, and don't miss the mashed plantains-- I can't even figure out precisely how they made that melt-in-your-mouth side. Because of Nada's trendy reputation, I was surprised that the service was so excellent. Our waiter was authentic, helpful and considerate. I hate cilantro, and he asked the chef to omit it from all garnishes. Also, his recommendations were great! (Perhaps this is because everything on the menu is great?) In conclusion, go here! Prepare to be silenced by the pure awe of deliciousness. P.S. For you downtown dwellers, I noticed some take-out orders leaving the kitchen.
(5)
Amy E.
I loved my dinner here. We got great people watching seats on the second floor by the window. The chips are so fresh, and the salsa trio had great flavor and a bit of heat. I always love sopes so I had to try to braised short rib sops, and it was delicious. But the star of the dinner was my pork belly tacos. So rich, and a perfect blend of flavors. My mojito complemented the meal very well. Service was great as well. I look forward to coming back!
(5)
Philip T.
The English equivalent to the Spanish word Nada is Nothing. This is a very suitable name for this restaurant as whenever I dine here their is Nada left on my plate. This contemporary Mexican restaurant is a great date place, perfect for grabbing dinner and drinks before attending a show at the Aronorff or after viewing the art at the CAC. The menu is difficult in that it is hard to decide what to order as all of their options are so excellente!
(4)
Amber J.
Bit on the pricey side for what you get. I love love their guacamole but chips could be less greasy. The item I enjoy most on their menu is the chicken tortilla soup. YUM!! They also have brunch which is worthy of a stop.
(4)
Kristen U.
Nada has a great atmosphere and really great food. I will definitely be going back!
(4)
Joe R.
The food is awesome and my wife loves the margaritas:) I'm a fan of the queso and the chips. This is a very hip place with good atmosphere:) highly recommended.
(5)
Karen K.
Love Nada! Especially love being outside on the patio enjoying some sliders! Friendly, good service, too.
(5)
lisa w.
ambiance is fantastic - great location downtown, close to several cultural arts spaces and clubs; inside feels like a metropolitan hotspot food is delicious - i always get the house margaritas and other cocktails (never disappointed) - the meat combo (especially the goat) is to die for :) service is probably more like 4 stars because its not very consistent from visit to visit and from employee to employee. its a popular place which is always crowded, so don't go in and start ordering drinks on an empty stomach. sometimes orders can take time, and while its worth the wait, a boozy hungry girl is never fun.
(5)
Jodey L.
Hip, friendly & super fun! Awesome dance music provides an upbeat atmosphere. Nice wine & beer selection, food was delicious for the adults. Kiddo was not happy with her slider & fries. I do not recommend that for kids, either unless your kid eats spicy foods & wouldn't mind a spicy burger. I will definitely go back but may leave the kiddo at home or try a quesadilla for el picky one.
(4)
Chris R.
Food was amazing. Fresh & Tasty. Anyone can put sliders on the menu, but hands down, these were THE BEST. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. The pork belly tacos were an interesting treat. Would've preferred them on corn tortillas instead of flour, but still fantastic. Service was awesome. It's all about recovery. Not only did I accidentally knock the drink out of the waiters hand, but I then immediately proceeded to tip mine trying to recover. My bad. Staff was courteous and in good humor. Didn't skip a beat.
(5)
Sheri M.
My husband and I just happened to walk into Nada for a quick snack before the play Wicked. Loved the atmosphere, food, and service. I would recommend it to everyone and can't wait to go back!
(5)
Donna C.
Fan of the drinks & the apps. Dinner was ok but my foods was cold. They have a party room upstairs that we used for a work dinner which kept us together.
(4)
Lillian C.
One of my favorite restaurants in Cincinnati! The food is an American restaurant with Mexican flavors in their dishes (Mexican 'fusion'). The atmosphere is chic and cool; a great spot for drinks with the ladies after work, an exciting date or regular dinner with a friend/spouse. The drinks are yummy! Try one and you probably won't be disappointed. My favorites are: nadarita, pink grapefruit margarita and sangria rojo. The food is delicious; my go-to dishes are: tacos (crispy pork belly, fish) and the mac n' cheese. I love this place, and it's my go-to spot in downtown Cincinnati for awesome drinks and food!
(4)
Sophia B.
Nada has wonderful tacos, margaritas, mac & cheese & always great service!
(4)
Alex L.
Awesome overall-- a bit pricey, but an amazing atmosphere and fun place for celebrations or events. Friendly service, outstanding food.
(4)
Sherry S.
Food is always delicious! It's always a great and fun experience!
(5)
Bonnie Z.
FOOD - Mexican Mac n Cheese: I am home in CA now and still dreaming of this for comfort food. Rich, creamy cheese over shell pasta tossed with roasted jalepeno and poblano peppers topped with crunchy bread crumbs...heaven in winter! - Churros: honey and churros are a great combo! A little bit sticky, sweet, and crunchy...yummmmm. DRINKS Margaritas are sufficiently strong and enough to give you a nice buzz. I recommend the strawberry or mango ones for people who like sweeter, fruitier drinks. SERVICE We made a reservation for 7 ppl at 8:30 but still had to wait a little bit before being seated. However, the waiter was pleasant and prompt in bringing us menus and drinks later. We didn't have to wait too long for the food to arrive. Checks were easily split 7 ways (my CA mind is still boggled by how they split the churros into sevenths).
(5)
Robin M.
Love the shrimp tacos! The outside seating area is a great spot for sunday brunch
(5)
Juliette W.
Fantastic service, my glass was never empty. The queso fundido is excellent (5 stars). I ordered the fajitas, very small portion for the price. The meat was very tough. My husband had the porkbelly tacos. Very good but a tad overdone. I would recommend this restaraunt for happy hour. The location is nice, the restaurant was very clean and inviting. I will not return for a dinner service but maybe for a drink and an appetizer.
(3)
Teresa E.
The food was good, but not great. The atmosphere hip and modern. Nice dinner.
(4)
Andrea C.
Great food, great service, fun location. I'm all about this place.
(4)
Danielle F.
This place was pretty freakin' good! I made a reservation for 8 people via Opentable about 2 weeks in advance. Due to the size of the party, there were only so many tables available, and there was another large party there in advance of our reservation. After making the reservation, I called the restaurant to request moving the time to something around 7:30. The hostess was kind enough to explain the logistics of the table for the evening. She did say that we could try and show up early, but they typically block out a few hours for each reservation for larger sized parties. I definitely appreciated the information. To start, our group ordered chips and guacamole. We were quite pleased with the choice. For a cocktail, I had the red wine sangria which was pretty delish as well. I thought I was going to have a hard time choosing my meal, but as soon as I saw the pork belly tacos, I knew it was game over. I was definitely pleased with my choice. The pork belly had a crispy crust on the outside but was smooth and buttery on the inside. Such a rich dish meant it was quite filling as well. Our server was quite attentive and had a wonderful sense of humor. The ambiance of the restaurant is that of a urban casual environment. You can wear a nice pair of jeans and feel comfortable there, but several people were more dressy as well.
(4)
Mike G.
Who knew that a Texan could find awesome Mexican food in Cincinnati? Great, homemade chips and salsa. Fantastic tacos, especially the salmon. The mashed plantains were different, but very tasty. Waiter (Jordan) was very helpful. He was quick to point out what's popular, his favorites, etc. I'd definitely recommend this place and will be back if I get the chance.
(5)
Kaitlin B.
I absolutely love Nada, and after moving away from Cincinnati, it is something that I truly miss about living there. I often went to Nada for happy hour, but its great for lunch or dinner as well! The chips and guac are to die for and they always nice about giving you a refill. The guac is extremely fresh and has great flavor. I am also a huge fan of the vegetarian tacos and mexican mac and cheese. The house margaritas are fantastic. They have amazing flavor and the alcohol content is generous. If you are looking for a good flavored margarita, I highly recommend the pink grapefruit. Nada is great for groups of all sizes. I have gone with a few friends, as well as larger groups. Just make a reservation if you are planning to dine with a large group. Nada is definitely a must if you are in the Cincinnati area!
(4)
Leif H.
This is the best Mexican restaurant in Cincinnati. The ambiance is great and upbeat. The food is also amazing. I have not had a bad item on the menu. Everything tastes so fresh. The prices are reasonable and don't forget to try one of their awesome margaritas.
(4)
Anne M.
We ended up going here because Bakersfield had an hour wait and we were blown away. The food was outstanding - fish, pork, and barbacoa tacos, fresh chips and guacamole, sangria and margarita, and churros to finish it off. Highly recommend it!
(5)
Live S.
The best tacos ever...but pricey. Drinks were good...buy pricey. This place is just pricey! Take a first date and never go back! ;-)
(5)
Lia V.
Fancy Mexican joint downtown! The food really is always good. Ew ... one time I tried an oyster shooter... disgusting. Don't ever do that. The ambiance is swanky. I've been a few times all for semi-special occasions. They can accommodate large groups if you make a reservation and the staff is really friendly. It's definitely an upbeat restaurant and I like that it gives some life to downtown Cinci. I'll go back sometime soon I'm sure. It's worth checking out
(4)
Celeste M.
Came here for lunch on a business trip. It was one of the only places open on a Monday. It gets a star for that. The waitstaff were really nice and attentive. Another star. I ordered a chorizo and chicken full plate. The chef must have a special relationship with the salt shaker because it made me have a special relationship with my glass of water. The prices are fair and the atmosphere is nice, so it gets 3 stars.
(3)
John B.
In the past I've not really enjoyed dining or drinking here, but my most recent trip here was excellent. I love the interior design and hip feel of the place. I can't wait to come back in the warmer months and sit outside. For now, there is usually a fire pit burning for the valets and smokers. Our server Dennis was awesome and very nice to our group. He explained the components of the dishes we had questions about and was over apologetic when our food was a little slow from the kitchen. Another thing that made Dennis super awesome is that he was able to split my wife and I's dishes in two without any problems. That kinda service was unexpected and definitely appreciated. What did I have? Quacamole ($7) - I would skip this in the future but wanted to try it. It was just OK. The butternut squash soup ($6) was probably in the top five of butternut squash soups if not the best I've ever had. The chicken and corn enchiladas ($19) were fine but didn't have as much flavor as I was expecting and is overpriced. Oh well. I closed out the meal with the sangria poached pear and a serving of gelato. Those were great endings to the meal. I left stuffed and satisfied. Our group chatted up Dennis and it was cool to talk shop with someone on the inside. I'll have to come back for happy hour and some lite bites.
(4)
David M.
Overall, Nada is delicious. I have never had a bad meal here and the menu has great uniqueness and variety. As other reviews have mentioned, the chips are awesome, warm, and crispy. Very oily though so they have to be terrible for you. The guacamole is also great here as is the mac and cheese appetizer. I have had several different kinds of tacos here and all have been great. The barbacoa tacos were probably my favorite just for the awesome combination of flavors present. For me, Nada is a treat because it is VERY difficult to order a healthy meal here and it is also a little on the pricey side. One of my favorite things about Nada, however, is their happy hour drink menu. It is simple, cheap, and unique with options made with top-shelf liquor that you don't normally see at happy hours. Finally, the atmosphere here is amazing. There was obviously some serious cash put in to the design of this place. Modern decor is all over and the restaurant has an awesome 2-level setup that you have to see. Perfect for a business lunch or date night. Give Nada a try for a unique take on Mexican.
(4)
Brendon D.
Yucatan chicken! Amazing! Great interior and nice staff. I suggest coming here if in Cincinnati.
(5)
Megan B.
Excellent food and service. Tacos (fish, pork, etc.), salads, and tortilla soup are outstanding as are the chips and salsa. Great patio though I'm typically here for lunch and not imbibing. Funky, modern vibe and buzzy atmosphere without being too loud. This is a great place to meet up with friends or have a business lunch and the menu is elevated Mexican with lots of fresh lime and cilantro. It's consistently good on all fronts!
Limited menu, but the tacos are delicious. I particularly recommend the carnitas ala diabla! Also the queso fundito is a great starter. Don't expect good draft beer selections. This is definitely a liquor bar. Dessert is also mediocre. Service is outstanding. Make reservations ahead!
(4)
Michael S.
I've been here a number of times with my wife's work, and I've always found the food and environment to be pleasant. I think it would be my go-to choice for out-of-town guests as it has the space and atmosphere to accommodate a decent number of people. It is certainly one of only a few upscale casual places that can stand to host a private party, and I would book it in a heartbeat if I needed to host an event. Nada offers a great margarita, some very good appetizers (especially the mac-and-cheese), and good tacos, though I think Bakersfield OTR offers better tacos at a better price. I think the beer selection could be improved, but Nada is a Mexican restaurant, so it's reasonable for it to not be all things to all people. I also think it is a bit pricey across the board. Three tacos for $14-19? That's a stretch. Still, let's not kid ourselves. Nada has carried Cincinnati upscale casual for a long time and has earned its place as a Cincinnati institution.
(4)
Brandy V.
I had dinner there last night with a group of friends (8 total) for a birthday celebration. We enjoyed chips and guacamole and several rounds of drinks. I had the grilled salmon which was amazing!! My husband had grilled chicken tacos, which were large and full of flavor. I love going to Nada and always have a great time. One small thing was that the table that we were seated at was not large enough for 8 people. Once we received our food we were smooshed! Gratuity is automatically added for large parties, 20%. I look at my bill when it comes to make sure everything is right so I noticed the gratuity and informed my friends in case they didn't know, since our server didn't mention this to us..not a big deal, but you should always mention this. Will definitely be back soon for happy hour!
(4)
B Q.
YUM - try the enchiladas! In terms of price, it's definitely a little more expensive than taco bell, but everything is tasty. :) I'd recommend going in the summer when you can enjoy the patio, but it's cozy in the winter to warm up with some hot food. It's in close walking distance to many bars if you want to grab a drink or glass of wine elsewhere after dinner without having to drive/park again.
(4)
Alyssa F.
Great guacamole, good margaritas, good food. I love the atmosphere here, and loved eating outside on the patio one time during the summer (great first date!). However they are a little dodgy when it comes to their reservation policy. They definitely take them all through open table (available here on their yelp page!), but if you call them, most of the time they will tell you that they don't take reservations at all. The wait on a weekend night can get upto a couple of hours, but the bar is always open seating and the outside patio is on a different wait list, so definitely try out those options if you can't get in on open table.
(4)
Julie T.
I really love Nada. The atmosphere is so fun for a fun night out or as a laid back hang out spot. Their guacamole and salsa is delicious and they have great drinks. (good coffee for brunch time too). I like going for dinner or brunch because both menus have great items to choose from. It is a little more expensive but the ambiance makes it worth it. They also have a great patio that is fun for people watching.
(4)
Kendra B.
Excellent choice for Mexican cuisine. I have been here a couple of times and it's always very good and worth the price. Nada is a the whole package with great food, cocktails, and ambiance. I usually get the tacos but have also had the Mexican mac & cheese which is a great option as well. Also I highly recommend the sangria. Overall a great dining experience.
(5)
Sarah A.
I originally had a so-so experience. I came in 5 minutes before happy hour began and was not offered a menu. It's a long story. Anyways, I tried contacting a manager several times. I received an apology email. So, I posted a bad Yelp review. Apparently, that got someone's attention. They stopped into my hotel with dinner for myself and my employees and also gave me a gift card to one of the other restaurants I reviewed on Yelp. That was very thoughtful of them.. too bad it was only after my review that they decided to do something about the bad service I had received. Anyways, the food is really good- if not a bit pricey. Tacos were outstanding but the margarita was kind of weak. Overall, I give them 3 stars.
(3)
Stan S.
First of all, do not be mislead, this is a fine angelo/mexican/Baja fusion place to eat, it is by no means however a Mexican menu as most of us who have travelled in the southwest might know. The crowd is for sure a well toned, tanned and hip crowd and the decor for sure reflects that. I thought the noise level much too high and the choice of music better suited to some thump-thump club in the alternative lifestyle part of town. The service was very good. Now after all that bitching, the tacos excellent and the Baja tacos in particular were excellent, some of the best I have ever had, and yes, I have had Baja tacos in Baja. One prominent Yelper said the guacamole would make you cry, but perhaps it was a bit of onion in their eye, the green confection was good, but not make you cry good, for me, a bit too much lemon or lime in it. The chips however were clearly made on site and very fresh and tasty. I had a good meal here and its a causal place aside from the noise level.
(4)
Tim L.
Ok, so I tried this place again. Once again the food was very good, but the service was terrible. I felt like the bartender was annoyed that she actually had to bring me food and drink. So sad as this place could be so much better. I will not be returning for awhile. Maybe they will hire some better customer service oriented staff.
(2)
Prasad K.
We went on a Saturday night and surprisingly, we could get in without any reservation or wait. We really liked the atmosphere and drinks were amazing, my wife ordered a Mango margarita and it was amazing and well made. We ordered chips and three salsas for appetizers and I really liked the hot salsa. We ordered Chicken Fajitas and shared. Everything was good. We will definitely go back with Friends again.
(5)
Jen B.
I LOVE nada! I crave the vegetarian tacos. They are made perfectly with so much flavor! It is a fun environment. I love going there on a date or with a group of girlfriends! One of my favorite spots in Cincinnati!
(5)
Terry J.
Nada is a nice contemporary Mexican restaurant with an energetic atmosphere in a good location. My wife and I and four other family members ate dinner there on a Friday night in June 2014. The host seated us upstairs in this two-story restaurant. The servers, dressed in casual uniforms but neat in appearance, seemed to enjoy working at Nada, and did not appear distracted but focused on serving their guests. They appear knowledgeable and attentive but not annoyingly attentive. Our server was pleasant, polite, and accommodating, thus causing us to be relaxed and to feel un-rushed. We ordered a simple appetizer of house-made corn chips and fire roasted tomato salsa. Although the chips were fried and a bit salty, they were warm, fresh, and tasty nonetheless. Perhaps the chef should trash the salsa recipe. If you are used to eating salsa with tasty chunks of tomato, onions, and green peppers, this is not it. For this salsa lacks flavor and has a soupy consistency as if the cooking staff over blended the ingredients. For the most part, we ate the tasty chips without the salsa. I was surprised how quickly our server brought my order for a grilled Mexican adobo rubbed pork chop. My eyes noticed the soft crust of spicy adobo rub that enveloped the thick grilled two-inch bone-in center pork chop, and the hot juices oozing from the chop as I sliced its tender flesh. My mouth experienced an extremely tender texture of juicy meat bursting with flavor. The main flavor of the spicy adobo-rubbed pork chop, paired well with the layering flavors of the savory sweet mashed plantain. The chef platted the pork chop on a pillow of yellowish mashed plantain that enlightened my mouth with its creamy texture. The flavorful spicy pork chop with its tender texture and the enhanced layers of the savory and sweet flavors of the mashed plantain with its smooth creamy texture provided a neutralizing balance. The multiple flavors and textures of the pork chop and mashed plantain enhanced and played off of each other perfectly, making it a well thought out dish and this restaurant arguably deserving of three and a half stars. Nada is excellently located on 6th and Walnut in downtown Cincinnati, adding to the excitement of being downtown. The temperature of the restaurant is friendly, trendy, and fun. The lighting in the dining areas is just right. While the food is not superb, it is tasty, flavorful, and filling. I will most likely return to this restaurant and reorder the pork chop dish or experience the Yucatan Chicken and perhaps the Mexican Mac 'n' Cheese.
(3)
Meghan E.
Aaron our waiter had a terrific personality! He knew the the menu well and seemed to enjoy what he was doing. The hot temperatures outside made our food taste even more delicious!...And motivated me to order a second Mimosa.
(4)
Malavika R.
Nada.....nada...you surprise me! We arrived here en route to Indianapolis looking for a quick lunch. In our sleep deprived/"anxious to get home" state of mind. Despite of it being peak lunch hour, we were seated promptly (*brownie points!) The staff was prompt to take our orders and sharp enough to give us pointers about the lunch fare.. The menu is interesting..an impressive collection of traditional Mexican food interspersed with personal touches which really gives it some "Zing". The time we were waiting for our food, our server was very attentive. At one point, she apologized profusely for the delay as the kitchen was backed up (*brownie point). The owner then came to our table and explained that our ticket was misplaced but lunch would be on the house (by then we had waited for almost 30 minutes)... Alright..I don't rate this place because of the free food...I WOULD NOT have qualms paying for the food because it was delicious... every little morsel of it. I give it a good rating because despite of being extremely busy, they were willing to accommodate diners without any issues. The service was par excellence.. despite of it being someone else's fault, the owner was humble enough to chat with us and explain the situation....calmly.. Owning up to your mistakes, I believe is the hardest thing to do, no matter who you are. I knock off a few points because of the following reasons: unlike a traditional Mexican place, the chips and salsa is served as an appetizer...which threw me off just a little bit! Secondly, the place is a tad more expensive...two shrimp tacos with a side salad/ bean puree was $14 (food was good so this point may be disregarded). It may get a lil crazy during lunch hour.. All in all.. If I'm back in Cinci... I will come back for more! :)
(4)
Bridget S.
"Nada" is a great name for this place. "Nada" reason to go there! Seriously, we waited about 30 minutes for a table to become available. The place wasn't even that busy. That was ok though. We then we waited for table to get bussed for about another 15 min. Questionable. Then we were seated for at least 20 min with not one visit from a server. When we got up to leave and told the hostess staff why, we got "Nada" response. "Nada" means "nothing" right? Well we ate "nada" and had to leave to go somewhere nearby for a hurried late lunch. Won't be going back to Nada. You lost at least three customers today.
(1)
Nicole D.
This place is pretty amazing, especially if you are planning to hit a show at the Arnoff. The guacamole is spectacular.
(4)
Kim W.
I've been here a few times. Best part is probably the vibe and the location. The food and service is tolerable - not bad but not remarkable. This time I had a sparkling sangria, my friend had a mixed drink and the guys had beers. All decently good but pricey for what you get. We tried the shrimp tacos, fish tacos, enchiladas, and tuna salad. I ordered the tuna salad because the waiter described it as "seared ahi tuna on greens" and was disappointed that the dish arrived with canned tuna mixed through out. It didn't taste bad but it was not at all what I was expecting. This definitely isn't a bad place, but it's not such a spectacular find either. Nice outdoor patio.
(3)
Amanda G.
We go to Nada for work lunches from time to time. It's very yummy, but portion sizes are dainty. It's also a little pricey for what you get - but I expect that in a downtown restaurant. Overall, I am pleased with the experience. And I keep going back again and again.
(4)
Jennifer K.
I really wanted to love this place. I like this restaurant, but I can do without it. Their food is decent, but often times is too salty. The Good: What I loved about Nada is the ambiance. I came here for my birthday in August and again in October. During my birthday, we sat outside and I enjoyed the patio area. The inside of the restaurant is well decorated and feel likes a hip, upscale restaurant. The staff is very friendly. Although it is a bustling restaurant, you can still have a conversation with the person across from you and it doesn't feel crowded. The ceviche here is awesome. Flavorful, slightly sweet, tart, good quality fish. I really loved the ceviche. The chips and salsa are good too. The salsa is great. The chips are too salty, but if you lightly tap the chips against a plate, the salt comes right off. I've never had a bad meal here and everything that Ive ever ordered has at least been decent. Oversalting their food is a recurring theme at Nada's. The Mediocre: The two times that I've been here for dinner, I haven't loved or really enjoyed what I got for my main meal. I've ordered the shrimp tacos and grilled salmon dish. The shrimp in the tacos was grilled and had no seasoning. It was accompanied with a salad (which was delicious) and the tortillas were not grilled. There was no textural contrast (grilled shrimp, plain tortillas, nothing crispy to accompany the tacos). The tacos were very...one note. I swear Im not as much of a food snob as I come off in this review!!! :) I just felt like there was no imagination with the tacos. They were ok, but if I feel like I can make them at home, thats a problem. The salmon dish that I got was just ..ok. The salmon was overcooked and way salty. The salmon by itself was not very good, but it came with a corn salad. The corn and the salad together were decent. That corn salad is very good. We also ordered the cheese sliders the second time we came here. Good, but nothing Mexican about it (except that it had some heat). Nothng exceptional and they have better options for apps. My husband got the chicken corn enchiladas. Good dinner, but again, too salty. Overall, I like this place, but this isn't my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati.
(3)
Halide T.
It's one of those posh places where you need to pay for chips and salsa but don't let that turn you off from this place.They have a modern and upscale take on Mexican food but you will NOT miss the authentic Mexican flavors. Those chips we paid for were crispy and fresh and salsa was full of flavor. We ordered a side of guacamole and I could say that no one was complaining! Pork belly tacos were crispy yet had a melt-in-my-mouth feel. Considering the price I paid for those tacos, I did hope to have a few more toppings or some sort of a small side of pico de gallo or something extra. One of my friend had the tasting of cazuela, served in three miniature pots. Though they seemed small, don't let that fool you because those little pots sure hold a good amount of food. And to complement all this deliciousness, we had a pitcher of refreshing margarita! Our server was very attentive but not overwhelming, which is something I appreciate. We arrived here right before 5 pm on a Saturday and were surprised to find several small groups of people already waiting by the door. We didn't have a reservation but were seated promptly. Within 15 minutes, the place was packed with a good number of people. Considering that, probably a reservation will be necessary if we decide to go later in the evening next time.
(4)
Courtney K.
Nada is just so, so good. The dishes are delicious, and the price is very, very reasonable given the high quality of the dining experience. I love the ambiance, love the food, and the price makes it a great business lunch. The guacamole and chips are really good. My favorite dish is the chicken and corn enchiladas. The only thing standing between Nada and a 5-star rating in my book is that I find the menu to be not hugely creative. That's a small quibble, though- Nada is all-around great.
(4)
Diana D.
Visiting in the area and since Bakersfield had an hour wait we decided to try this place for lunch on a Saturday. I was definitely not impressed! It's not authentic and more tex mex plus the service was horrible. This is a Mexican restaurant yet when my family and I walked in (we're Hispanic) we were made to feel unwelcome by the hostess when the first thing that came out of her mouth in a frigid tone was "Do you a reservation?" Not a hello or a welcome to Nada, she was just rude in my opinion. Not sure if it was something towards us or if she is miserable working there as we did see her escort other people to their tables with a miserable face! Our waiter was also aloof and looked spaced out. The water guy was the only nice person there that made us feel welcomed. The food came out quick and it was decent nothing out of this world..I've definitely had better! Definitely wouldn't waste my time or money there ever again!
(2)
Anando S.
Best part is the availability of lots of local beers. Very nice ambiance and decor. Food is good too but there is a slight discrepancy between their online menu and what's actually available. Might be a wait to find a good seat.
(4)
Vince M.
I was going on a business lunch, and being unfamiliar with the area, an associate picked the place promising me some "upscale Mexican". After that description, I had no idea what to expect, but I ended up walking away very happy. I would definitely recommend the place. Not overly expensive (you're gonna spend about 12$ on whatever you get) for lunch, especially for what your getting. I got the poblano with a fried egg, which was absolutely delicious. Everyone else at my table got different meals, all of which looked and smelled amazing. It seemed that everyone enjoyed their meals. Nada is not at all what I expect when I think Mexican. While they offer things such as taco's and enchiladas, they manage to do so in a much "trendier" fashion (for example-my one friend got baja fish tacos, and loved them). I am not sure how they pulled it off, but Nada turned what is usually a simple concept (tacos etc) and created something that actually was kind of upscale. Lastly, enjoy the chips and guac. This might've been my favorite part. The chips are a bit heavier than what you would normally expect, and are definitely fried, but they are so addictingly good. I will absolutely come back next time I am on a trip to Cincinnati, Nada's was easily worth it.
(4)
Larry P.
On my first visit I gave this place 5 stars, but today I'm taking them down to a 2, because it has definitely slipped. For starters, I ordered a margarita. it came in a tiny glass with mostly ice and was priced at $7. I finished it in a few sips and my waiter asked if I wanted a refill. I asked that he bring the second one with less ice. When it came, the same tiny glass was only half full. When I complained, he said all of the margaritas were pre-made and that he wasn't allowed to pour more. At this rate I would need 4-5 of these tiny things at $7 a pop just to get the equivalent of a regular margarita. Ouch. Next we ordered chips and salsa. We had to pay for them, which I normally don't mind, because it means they are higher quality. In this case, though, we got a basket of broken chips that were way over-salted and some very average salsa. We couldn't finish them. For entree I got the enchiladas, which were recommended by the waiter and sounded like an interesting mixture of corn, cheese and meat on the menu. When I got them though, they were mostly corn. Not the nicely pureed corn you normally get in Mexican dishes - but whole corn kernels in a heavy cream sauce. I will say the atmosphere is nice. This is a hip, happening place. Unfortunately, management seems to know that and doesn't seem to care anymore about delighting its patrons. When I mentioned our disappointment to our waiter, he just shrugged us off.
(2)
Sheena D.
Not bad for a downtown restaurant and although I don't frequent downtown a lot, I don't know any other nice Mexican (or Mexican fusion) restaurant. The pros: - Gluten free chips on request! - Great sangria's - Service The cons: - The price (although comparable to any other downtown restaurant) - The lack of specials/promos/happy hour - Parking (again part of the downtown aspect) - Chips would have been good, but WAY to much salt (which killed the enjoyment of the salsas and guacamole)
(3)
Tyler T.
I came here for dinner with co-workers after not getting in the last time we were in Cincinnati. I was very excited to eat here. We started the meal with a large order of guacamole (amazing flavor and very fresh), salsa (again very fresh and delicious), home made chips, Mexican mac and cheese with poblano cream (absolutely amazing and incredibly flavorful) and finally the sopes (pulled short rib, very tender). I was getting full after the apps but we ordered three orders of tacos with the intentions of each getting one of the three tacos per order. We split the crispy pork belly tacos on flour tortillas (pork belly was phenomenal), the Baja fish tacos on flour tortillas, and the barbacoa pork tacos on corn tortillas. The portions were huge and it was all very flavorful. We were so full we had four tacos left over between three of us. The waiter was really cool and hooked us up with an order of churros on the house. The churros were so crunchy on the outside and melt in your mouth on the inside with sugar and honey all over. These were incredible. I was so pleased and so full after dinner. I'm very glad I was able to eat here. I will def be back the next time I'm in Cincinnati. Love it!
(5)
Tiffanie N.
I was in town for a wedding and decided to treat myself to brunch. I'm not a fan of Mexican food, so this was me venturing out of the box. I'm glad I did, the good was great. I ended up having the grapefruit margarita which was deliciously refreshing. I also had the French toast which melted in my mouth. I'd never heard of goetta until I came here so I had to try it, yum! Overall, this was a great stop before heading to the airport to fly home!
(5)
Rachel R.
I love the atmosphere of Nada. It's one of my favorite downtown restaurants and bars. Great for lunch with coworkers or dinner with friends on a Saturday night. Their chips are irresistible and the tacos are fresh to death.
(4)
Perry H.
NADA is one of our 'go to' places. The food is wonderful and the staff has always treated us well. A must if you head downtown often.
(5)
Ryan Z.
I'm disappointed to see Nada falling off a little bit. I think they got overconfident and began to rest on their laurels. This place used to be packed by 5:30 every evening. I was in here at 6pm on a Friday and it was absolutely dead. Maybe 20 customers in the entire place. I watched one table have to go to the hostess stand to pay for their meal because they couldn't find their server. I was even more disappointed to see the changes to their happy hour menu. Gone are the guacamole (some of the best in the city), sopes (sp?... absolutely delicious) and other favorites. In their place are tacos. That's it. This used to be one of my favorite happy hour spots but will now be relegated to occasional weekend brunches. There's just way too many other options providing far more value all over the city. FWIW, I'm still excited to see what their new cousin around the corner has to offer.
(3)
Rich M.
Chips and salsa were so so, guacamole was good. I ordered the fish tacos. The fish was fried and tasted mostly of greasy oil and the fish potions were very small. 2 tacos for $12 was a bit much. Nice atmosphere but food was marginal and over priced.
(2)
Bill E.
Came here one night with a friend as he won a gift card. We were greeted promptly by our server and he took our drink order, I ordered a mojito and my friend had a hard cider. We started off with chips and salsa and then decided to order some tacos and share a braised dish. We split an order of pork belly tacos, and barboca and ordered the braised lamb dish. Everything was very good, the prices are higher here because they are downtown in a prime location and people will pay those prices. I really want to come here for brunch.
(4)
Matthew S.
Food was pretty good. Fine meal for the price.
(3)
Lindsay D.
First time at Nada and my meal was amazing. A group of 6 shared chips, guacamole, salsa and the most amazing queso dip ever!! I ordered the sparkling sangria which was also a hit. I ordered the sliders as a meal and was beyond pleased. The meal comes with 2 thick and deliciously seasoned patties and great roasted potatoes.
(5)
Matt C.
Terrific service at this yummy Mexican restaurant right downtown in Cincinnati. Chips and salsa were very fresh and the guacamole too! A nice margarita started it to! I had a taquito which was good but a little mushy. The three tacos were great. The server indulged be and brought three diff ones (menu says three of one kind). I had the chicken, fish and carnitas ones. All really delicious and different so great variety. The butterscotch flan was a perfect ending.
(4)
Carolyn B.
So, I've been reading the yelp reviews on how great nada is and decided to give it a try before we saw a show today. It gave my son a chuckle on how even from the outside you could tell that there was a hip, trendy vibe. We started off great with the chips, salsa and guacamole - those chips were amazingly fresh and tasty! What a difference in flavor and the guac was really good, too, but I didn't find much inspiration in the fire roasted tomato salsa. Because a girlfriend recommended I try a pink grapefruit margarita and I am an obedient friend, I ordered one and found it both visually appealing and refreshingly enjoyable. Of course, when you are making a drink made with Madisono's pink grapefruit sorbet, how can you possibly go wrong? Who was the genius that thought that up? It was after that point where I got off the love train and sat at the station of mediocrity with the fish tacos. They were good, but just that. Sorry. To be fair, my son ordered the nada sliders along with a pacifico beer and he relished what he got. I did like the fact that they asked if we were going to the matinee and kept watch on our time for us.
(4)
Brian G.
First time I've ever had Tinga Poblana Cazuela (chicken & chorizo + spicy tomato + poblano rice add fried egg) and I'm sold for life. Outrageously good. Also, they have great local beers
(5)
Arlene S.
Could you say out of this world?! The chips/salsa & guacamole was exactly that! The margarita suprema was tasty and the tacos were BOMB!! We tried the fish tacos and the Barbacoa tacos. Barbacoa won all the way! Full of flavor & tender meat! I will definitely come back to this place if I'm ever in Cincinnati again!
(5)
Todd S.
Love their happy hour. Good margaritas, good chips and salsa.
(4)
Karen D.
Spent many an evening at Nada celebrating my own birthday a few times I think three years in a row, friends birthdays and when friends come to town. You can't go wrong with their drink menu and my favorite - passionfruit caipirinha - try one and you will be hooked! Homemade chips, salsa & guac, plus the best mac & cheese around with a kick. Tacos are good, but the best item on the menu which just melts in your mouth are the chicken & corn enchiladas.
(4)
Katy L.
I travel to Cincy a lot (I live in California) you'd think I would never find good mexican in the Midwest but I think Nada is great. Upscale Southwest Food, incredible guacamole, don't remember when I've had any that was better.
(4)
Kim M.
Great chips, guacamole and salsa but horrible service. We had reservation at 7:30pm on a Friday night but sat until almost 9pm and the waiter had yet to come and take our order for dinner. The place was crowded but not too busy to where they couldn't take our order. The menu looks great with a good selection of meat and seafood. But we are very disappointed with the service and won't be coming back.
(1)
Collette M.
We had a wonderful experience!! One of the best things of the place was the atmosphere, full of people eating, drinking, talking and generally having a good time. I knew I was going to be critical of the food since I had yet to experience good Latin food in Cincy. We were not disappointed. We started off with the chips and salsa. For $2 I would have gladly paid more. They were fresh hot and super crunchy. I had a Nadarita which was decent not the most memorable margarita I've ever had but definetly not the worst. And for the entree the porkbelly tacos which were super yummy. My boyfriend had the streak fagitas and they were equally good. I ordered a side of beans poblano which I ate with a spoon right from the bowl (and used the chips making it an imprompt to dip). For desert we had the tres leches that was sooo good. Yes the place is a little "pricy" but it is so hard to find good food in Cincy that I would gladly pay the price to go home satisified.
(5)
Manu M.
We went to the brunch at Nada the other day. It was not a planned brunch date, but they were serving brunch till (i think) 3. We had some time to kill before we hit AMC for the movie. My wifey had previous experience here and warned me about the dish size being small. I did not care for the warning. I ordered chorizo and egg enchiladas, and my wife ordered shrimp tacos (not a part of brunch menu, but they obliged) In about 10 minutes our dishes arrived, with a warning for me, "sir this plate is verrry hot" The sausage and egg created a tasty melange in my mouth. It was sophisticated mexican, with lower amount of cheese. Wifey dear's shrimp tacos were also superb, of which i had one. I like my brunches big, so the enchiladas were not enough for me, I ordered a french toast to be shared between us. After tasting the Vitor's french toast, my bar for the french toast is sky-high. This french toast did not beat it. We even felt that this was an imitation. But this was a tadd too sweet for my palate. This sweet and savory combination did not work for me, I had some weird feelings in my stomach later on. But on their own both dishes were 3.5 out of 5. Must..resist.. temptation to mix and match.
(3)
Elizabeth R.
Nice - I've only been for lunch, but the service was awesome, the food was good (no spice in the salsa, though) and the ambiance is nice. The chips are fabulous, and the chicken tortilla soup - while it has a nice flavor, has weird tasting chicken - I think it might come from a bag. Good location, though, and a good drink menu (which sadly, I did not indulge in).
(4)
J K.
We were in Cincinnati for a half-marathon weekend, never having been before, and with absolutely no idea of where to go. We stumbled upon Nada one evening and were blown away by the food, service, and price. As a family with serious food allergies, they took care of us and made sure we were good to go. We liked it so much that evening, we went right back to it the next day. What a great restaurant!
(5)
Christine M.
Nada has solid food, good atmosphere, and can usually be counted on for a quiet, slightly sophisticated, evening. Until most recently, when I went here with a slightly raucous and intoxicated group for a birthday (a bit of a misstep most likely), things have been geared towards a crowd that appreciates good food, tasty drinks, and wants to be able to talk to their group. Things can get pricey, but for an evening out downtown, it seems appropriate enough. I apologize to the universe for tainting that experience for those who were at Nada at 11:30 this particular night, but I guess that's a risk in serving food late? Maybe our server got a good 'drunk tip' (here's to hoping...). Being sober and hungry it was a nice moment for me, among our attempts to bar hop, and once again, the food didn't disappoint. The location near the Aronoff seems like it might be a predominantly pre/post arts/culture crowd, though the proximity to more club/dance like venues could, from time to time, encroach on that vibe. I'm here to say it's happened at least once. All this said, our waiter, to his wonderful credit (wish I could remember his name) was great dealing with this dynamic- bringing food, chips, drink refills, etc. The group behind us, not so thrilled to have our group in their proximity, didn't feel the same, but he seemed nonplussed by it, so I didn't stress too much. As food goes, the tacos (all of them) are good, ropa viejo is really tasty, and the margaritas (blood orange most recently) never disappoint. Things can get expensive if you order a lot, but the food is high quality and has always suited my needs, tastes, and desires. It's not a typical 'family style Mexican restaurant', so know that going in; they serve (great!) chips and salsa but they aren't complementary. It's more of a tapas meets tacos stand experience, and a good one at that! The patio, on a nice day, is really pleasant and quiet enough to actually hear the group you're with. I'm now craving a taco....and a trip to Nada...guess that says it all.
(4)
Maggie T.
Pork belly tacos and their version of bloody Mary...that's all you need!! This is one of my favorite places in Cincinnati.
(5)
Sarah R.
YUMMY. My first time in Cinci... I'm walking around downtown looking for a nice place to have a quaint solo lunch. I stumble upon Nada and naturally I look it up on Yelp. Glowing reviews. So I walk in and take a peek at the menu. Good lord! It's spendy! Do I really want to spend this much at lunchtime?! But the atmosphere was good, the music was good, and they had a patio... So I thought, "what the hell" and I asked for a seat outside. My server was polite, professional, & super friendly. He made recommendations and told me a little about the menu. A well trained staff is always a good sign. So I ended up ordering the chips and salsa since they don't give them automatically. Normally this would bug me... but this is not a typical Mexican restaurant. It's a fancy shmancy fusion-y Mexican restaurant. So I let it go and ordered the chips & salsa along with some chicken tacos with a side salad. (What can I say? I like to eat) OMG the chips and salsa were to die for. The side salad was delicious and the tacos had incredible flavor. The only lil gripe I have about anything at all would be that everything was quite salty. Whatever cheese they use on those tacos was suuuper salty. But I would get all of it again in a hot minute. So obviously it wasn't too big of a deal. I may have spent a pretty penny on lunch. But it was worth it. Excellent food, service, and atmosphere. Highly recommended!
Came here for the second time. Being a west coast native I'm a bit picky about this kind of food. I tried the barbacoa, pork belly, and salmon tacos. While I wouldn't call any of the food super authentic, the bottom line is that the food tastes good. Particularly enjoyed the pork belly taco with egg ($1 per egg per taco), and would definitely come back. My only general complaint is that nothing is spicy enough.
(4)
Mary A.
I sat outside with a group of 5 friends for Sunday brunch. The atmosphere was nice with the seating far enough away from people passing by on the sidewalk and the street. It was relatively quiet for being in the middle of downtown. The food was good, although the portions were small. This was fine with the food, as there is not always a need to leave so stuffed you can't move. However, I wish the juice servings had been a bit more generous. Visited September 2013
(4)
Andrew F.
I ate there for the first time last weekend on the Saturday before Easter. It was a great experience. The food was great. The service was top notch, if anything maybe a little too attentive. But I would highly recommend it.
(4)
Alexander P.
In my opinion, Nada is just average. Factor in the price, and I find it a bit below average. My experience: 1) Slow service 2) Long wait time for a table, even with reservations. I expected this because, you know, it's a trendy downtown restaurant. 3) Expensive drinks (again, expected). Mid-quality (not expected). 4) DRY, overcooked food. I still attribute this to be a fluke, but it tasted as though my food sat under a heat lamp for an hour before I was served. It was dry, tasteless, and on par with Chipotle for quality. Oh, and I spent $18. I hope this restaurant row area has more to offer, because Nada was 'nothing' special.
(2)
Cindi S.
I tried the tacos since so many Yelpers raved about them. I ordered 1 barbacoa taco, 1 shrimp taco and 1 pork belly taco. The barbacoa turned out to be my favorite. It was a bit spicy and the taco shell was lightly fried. The shrimp taco was also quite good but would have been better with the lightly fried shell. Although I enjoyed the pork belly taco it was not as good as everyone said it would be. My main complaint was the sauce t was served with turned it into mushy pork belly instead of crispy pork belly. That said, It was a very good dining experience and the service was great. I recommend dining with friends so you can sample more dishes as the serving size is very generous. Oh, and the chips and salsa were some of the best ever.
(4)
Jon M.
The food was easily 5-star caliber, but presented in a very casual and relaxing setting. Nada is not, let me clarify, a 5-star restaurant (the servers wear jeans)...but the food outkicks its coverage, so-to-say. Everything on the menu that I tried was delicious, from the salad to the main course to the side of mashed plantains (hint: get the plantains you won't regret it). As other reviewers have noted, this isn't your traditional mexican fare, it's got more of a fusion twist but that's what makes it stand out. They also serve perfectly sized portions. Nada looks like just another standard, almost-chain, downtown eatery...but the cuisine will have me coming back for another visit the next time I'm in town. Go there!
(4)
Troy S.
When I think about a great restaurant, I think about one that isn't afraid to make a statement. Nada does this with a tiny menu, becuase they are just that confident in their specialty dishes. These are the best tacos I have ever had, hands down, and I've had a lot of tacos in my lifetime. The chips and salsa are surprisingly amazing while you anxiously await the delicious meal to come. The atmosphere is, well, unique. It's described as "Modern Mexican" cuisine and has an odd structure on the inside, and the best experiences I have had were on warm nights eating on the patio area, people watching a busy downtown intersection. Great tequilla selection, as should be expected. The service is pretty top notch, and while it isn't the fastest food around, it's well worth the wait. It's pricey, but quite possibly the best Mexican you will ever have.
(5)
Jenna C.
I love Nada. I rarely have a bad meal here and I find the service very attentive. The Mexican mac n cheese is fantastic (really creamy). They have great guac too. I've never had a bad taco here either, of the many I've tried. Their sangria is some of the best I've had.
(5)
Bryant M.
A simple menu + delicious food & drinks + beautiful location = a great date spot! The Mister and I recently took a weekend trip to Cincinnati to see Wicked, and we had scoped out Nada as our dinner spot after the play since it was highly-rated and right beside the Aronoff. And boy am I glad we chose this place! First of all, Nada is beautiful; it's dark, candle-lit, and very romantic. The servers were super-friendly, and everything we ordered was very prompt. The menu is incredibly simple with only a few items on it, but I'm totally okay with this if everything is delicious. And everything we ordered was, indeed, delicious! We both ordered a caipirinha and the short rib tacos, and I couldn't have been happier with either! And our bill total was about $40. A little pricy, but totally worth it. I would most definitely go back to Nada the next time we're in town! Oh, and did I mention the actress who played Glinda was sitting right beside us having dinner? Swoon...
(4)
Ella E.
Went to Nada for dinner and was expecting better quality mexican food for the price. I would say this place should have three money signs, not two. The drinks are expensive and the tacos are overpriced (considering the overhead on each taco). I think this is a great place for the trendy atmosphere but not a place to go to find authentic mexican food.
(3)
Ashley B.
I love love love Nada's mushroom tacos. Their chips and salsa and guacamole are always something I crave. I unfortunately almost always have problems with their service. One time, a waiter completely neglected us because we looked young. I'm a good tipper, and it offends me when someone assumes I will not tip well because I am young. Another time, a waiter didn't come back with my friend's change and he charged my card DOUBLE the amount! I had to call the next day to complain. I also heard him complaining about my friend to the bartender because she didn't understand a menu item. I told him that I heard him and he looked shocked. After this experience, I swore I would never go back. But, I am craving the tacos an the guac, so I might go back some other time.
(3)
Lauren M.
Not sure why everyone loves this place. The service is slow every time we go. The food is decent but not great. The servers hardly notice you flagging them down let alone that you'd like another drink or they delivered the wrong meal. If they could put a few more servers on the floor their ticket costs would go up and they'd make more money and I'd consider returning.
(1)
Eric B.
Nada's an interesting spot for me. On one hand, I tend to agree that this is a restaurant that really recommends Cincinnati to outsiders. It's a well done concept with a tidy total package - decor, menu ambition, lunch/dinner/late-night scene, and excellent food quality. The only problem is... I just never really want to go. I'm not sure quite why, to be honest. The salads I've had are excellent. The tacos are tasty (but Bakersfield gives them a run for the money). The guac is rich and satisfying. The squash soup was really satisfying. But something gives me pause. I think it might be the price-point. As good as it is, I only want to go when I'm not paying. So, either I'm cheap, or Nada is a bit dear. That said, if someone else is paying, you should probably dine here. It is, after all, pretty great. If you're paying, you might consider not inviting me along - I'm going to order both soup and salad, because they're fantastic.
(4)
McKenzie G.
First, the food is pretty great. Don't trick yourself into thinking you'll be transported to Mexico upon tasting your first bite--it's quite American, but that seems to work here. It's delicious. But the service could really use some help. Both times I've been, the servers outside seem to consider themselves at a separate restaurant from those inside. "Do they speak our language?" I can imagine them asking each other. And as a customer, I'd like to contribute a solid "No, I don't think they do". I mean do they communicate at all?? Our group was bounced between the inside and outside crew and finally after a 45 minute wait we were seated. And that's when the "complimentary" queso and guacamole arrived. "Wow," we all thought, "How nice!". Until every one of our 6 girls was billed over 2 dollars. That's some expensive complimentary food. Besides the long wait and the weird bill, I will say that I've never left Nada feeling disappointed (in my belly). I gladly shell out 30 dollars or more whenever I go because 1) the margaritas are great and 2) the food is worth paying a little more for.
(3)
Casey M.
This is my favorite restaurant by far in Cincinnati. The food is always good. During busy hours, the service can be somewhat slow, and the atmosphere can get very loud sure to the layout of the restaurant. During nice weather, it is wonderful to eat on the patio. The vegetarian tacos are hard to beat. The prices are fair for most items. Though they charge for chips and salsa ($2) it is an excellent price for the quality. Their house margarita is wonderful and my husband loves the mojito. All three of the sangria are delicious, but I prefer the margarita. I haven't tried the cazuela yet, but plan to if I can tear myself away from the tacos.
(5)
Jessica K.
I always love Nada. As a vegetarian I found great options. The mushroom tacos are amazing and the drinks are great. The service is always wonderful.
(5)
Shama M.
Not good for what it's supposed to be AT ALL. The food is very bland.
(2)
Jim T.
Stopped here for a lunch with friends on a day I took off on a weekday. It was quite busy with local business people, although I would find it a little heavy for a lunch before returning to a day in the office. Service was a little slow at first, but very friendly and helpful. The food was really great. Queso was very good with what appeared to be home made chips. For lunch I had beef Tamals, and others had tacos and salads. We loved it all and the sides all were delicious.
(4)
Katie W.
Nada is definitely a go to spot for me! Great to take friends to that are in town visiting. I always go with the Barbacoa tacos and also get guacamole and chips which includes salsa as well. You get three tacos which may not seem like a ton but everyone I've ever gone with is always satisfied and usually can't even finish their last taco! Margaritas are great as well. Always have wonderful service.
(5)
Kyle H.
Nada serves up Mexican dishes with a twist in a modern setting that's casually upscale. Shuttled up a winding staircase, past the small bar upstairs, we were seated in a section of young couples with light wood accents above, and original artworks that melded Warhol with Lichtenstein. The second floor is lively without being loud. A perfect date spot, or reserve the open private room for a group! I was immediately put at ease when I heard Kings of Leon followed by a nikki c. Michael Jackson favorite. (Does Yelp Chicago follow me wherever I go?). Our service also put me at ease, as the water flowed like wine, and we were served seamlessly by two servers. We started off with Nada's signature guacamole, the chips and salsa, and the Mexican Mac 'n' Cheese. The guacamole was great with a hint of lemon, and the salsa had a warm depth without being too spicy. It's complexity was so inviting I kept going back to it even when my meal arrived. The Mexican Mac 'n' Cheese was rich with undertones of poblano pepper. It had just the right amount of spice and might serve as a nice lunch, say on a snow day, actually! For our meal we decided to sample the tacos. The carnitas and pork belly tacos were both interesting, but the crispy pork belly tacos were exceptional. With guacamole, pickled onions, guajillo salsa and cilantro, they just burst with flavor. The pork belly was like a boneless slab of ribs meat in a taco, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, seasoned to perfection. Don't get me wrong, the carnitas tacos were good, but seemed to lack complexity, and needed some enhancing by our order of salsa. There you go! Our price point for the meal and drinks was just over $30/per person. Completely worth it for the atmosphere and excellent food! Nada has an enticing patio with dark wicker furniture, perfect for summer drinks! The bar on the main floor also looked inviting, and their specialty drink menu looked interesting. A great place for happy hour in Cincinnati. Que te pasa, calabasa?Nada, nada, limonada. It's all happening at Nada!
(5)
Golnaz P.
We came on a Friday night around 8pm and this place was packed. We snagged a seat at the bar and placed in our drink orders. Soon I was sipping on some delicious sangria. The bartender was very helpful and tried to help us put our orders right so that we would get to try the tacos we wanted and save a few bucks. How thoughtful! We started with the guacamole and it was heavenly. The chips were even great, thick and crispy. I got the shrimp tacos and red fish taco. They had just the right amount of spiciness to them. Everything was great!
(4)
F D.
Guac is great, drinks are pricey but yummy, ambiance is wonderful. In terms of the entres there is better mexican in Cincy
(3)
Amy K.
The food at Nada is always delicious. I prefer the tacos. And make sure you try the guacamole. Margaritas are great, but don't ignore their good beer list.
(5)
JP S.
While the food was fine, my experience there wasn't. Last night (6/12/14), my wife and I were downtown for an event and decided to try out Nada. We were seated immediately and were looking forward to a nice meal. The server took our drink order and the appetizer came a short while later. Next, is where the bad service kicked in. We were ready to order and she walked past us several times, even after I made eye contact with her twice, indicating I was looking for her. After about 10 minutes, she takes our order and she's off again. Five minutes later, two diners were seated next to us and they were also being served by this same person. She promptly takes their drink orders, brings them appetizers and about 10 minutes later, their food arrives. Mind you, our meals have not arrived yet. A couple of minutes later, our meals arrive. My wife and I are not happy at this point. Another five minutes pass and she check on the couple next to us and, seemingly as an afterthought, catches herself and turns to check on us. At this point, I went from decided to pay for our meal and on to needing to talk to the manager. So, the next time our server passes by I decline ordering dessert and, instead, ask for the check and to speak to the manager. After about five minutes, the manager (Chris Smith) arrives and I let him know my dissatisfaction. I explain to him my experience and question if there might be some unwritten "policy" related to certain "types" of customers (my wife and I are persons of color). He picks up on this and is immediately dismissive of not just this notion but of any notion that the service was poor, telling us how they get such rave reviews for their service. However, the two women who had been served before us (both Caucasian) chimed in and said they had both noticed how poor our service was, as well, and were particularly suprised to see that they had been served meals prior to us. Amazingly, Chris now finds our complaint credible and offers to discount our meal. I told him "no thank you" and that I would be paying my bill in full, which I did. I told him I would much rather that he fix the service there, should I ever consider returning there. He then apologized and told me that he wanted me to be satisfied but, I stated "how could that possibly be when you were so dismissive of any concerns I expressed?" I promptly paid my bill, took the business card Chris offered and left. I doubt that I'll be back.
(1)
Daniel W.
Nada is a great restaurant that always seems to be hopping. They have a good selection of tappas and a good bar. It is a great place to grab dinner and meet friends. They have a good variety of seating, you can sit outside, upstairs or at the bar.
(4)
Michael S.
Went there last night after reading reviews if a great place. Not so much food overpriced. Good portions much horrible taste. Service was good great waiter. But wouldn't recommend at all. Had a $60 tap to pay and left hungry because food wasn't worth eating.
(1)
Jose H.
My first time here. My girlfriend and I enjoyed every minute of it. They have the best chips and salsa ever! Really liked their tacos, I recommend you order a few and split them!
(5)
J P.
I will give restaurants the stars I think they deserve. Rarely, do i dish out a 5 star, but Nada deserves it! This place is amazing. Great atmosphere - colorful, fun, professional, upscale (without being snooty), and aesthetically appealing. And the food? Some of the most amazing Mexican food I have ever enjoyed. The price is a little higher than other Mexican restaurants, but it is absolutely worth it. They fully deliver. PS get the salsa trio, the best salsas I have ever tasted.
(5)
Rachel Eve G.
Had a great dinner here with my husband--we were surprised to be seated within 5 minutes on a Friday evening on the patio. The food was great, the server (Jeff) was knowledgeable and very attentive, and the atmosphere was perfect. The patio was crowded, but not too loud, which I appreciate. We had drinks, guac, and tacos (shrimp and pork belly--I liked the pork belly the best). Oh, and the chips are amazing.
(5)
Peter B.
A magnificent interpretation of nouveau Mexican in the tradition of Rick Bayless. Make certain to try one of the many delicious signature drinks before digging into the food. Fresh made guacamole is over the top and tortilla chips cooked on-site will start you off just rite. It is the creative tacos that will steal your heart and warm your stomach. The barbacoa short ribs tacos are not to be missed. The same can be said for mahi mahi tacos that melt in your mouth. For the gringos, try the beef nada sliders. Almost a shame that they are served at a Mexican restaurant as they might be overlooked! The bar scene is electric and the customers are casual couture. Make sure to check out this terrific downtown hotspot!!
(4)
Lyn C.
Nada is good, but I think they have some serious competition with Bakersfield now. It seems a little more expensive and prissier in comparison but still good. If you want a fancier taco/marg spot, this would be the perfect place for you. Parking is a bit tricky but I'm no expert at navigating around in the downtown Nati. I'm assuming most people walk here to lunch from their work buildings.
(4)
Bob R.
First time to Cincinnati. Being from California, I was skeptical when everyone wanted to get Mexican food. I was pleasantly surprised. We had a sampling menu our waiter pulled together for us. The iron pot stews were a new thing for me. I really enjoyed the mole as well as the pork. The braised meat tacos (carnitas and barbacoa) were terrific and for me, the best thing there. The only thing I didn't really love was the pork chop (pretty dry). The staff was friendly and really attentive. They didn't know a ton about the food they were serving, but I wouldn't expect that from a place of this kind.
(4)
Paul H.
Came out to Cincinnati for the first time in my life this past weekend for my cousin's wedding. We had the rehearsal dinner here. As a die hard east coaster, I would have never thought I could have gotten such great Mexican cuisine in Ohio, but wow. Had the Barbacoa tacos which were delicious and swapped one of them for a friend's pork belly taco which was one of the most amazing food items I've had in quite a while. Possibly the best piece of pork product I've had since the bacon appetizer at Peter Luger's. The wait staff was friendly and when we brought in the real skeleton our family keeps for special occasions, no one freaked out or gave us a hard time (we're all sick).
(3)
Steven S.
Great brunch spot. Sat outside with my pals Labor Day weekend for delicious drinks and awesome food. Staff was very courteous. A little on the slow side, but worth the wait.
(5)
Maria M.
Went to nada for my 2 year anniversary and it was my first time there. We had reservations made for a few months and made a note that it was our anniversary. I was surprised when we got probably the worst table in the place. I am a hostess and totally understand that you can't give everyone great tables because of server sections, but I always try to give birthdays/anniversaries the best seat in the house. Especially on non busy nights like Sunday. We were in the corner sort of by a closet. In hind sight, I probably should have asked to sit outside. I was quickly distracted by our weird table by our super friendly server. She made great menu recommendations and seemed happy to be there. My margarita was amazing (you can tell they use quality ingredients) and my boyfriend enjoyed his Mexican Mule. Both drinks were worth the price - $7 nadarita & $8 mexican mule. Definitely get chips and salsa to start. $2 and very tasty. As for the food - it was good. I wasn't super wowed because I am picky and got grilled chicken tacos (without guac and black bean puree). Since mine were so plain, it just tasted like a lot of other grilled chicken tacos I've had. Still tasty though. My boyfriend said his baja fish tacos were the best he has ever had. I would come back for dinner only on special occasions (because the food/drinks are pricy). For sure going to come to happy hour soon for some discounts and more nadaritas!
(4)
Magda C.
Love their patio and grapefruit margaritas. Such a wonderful place for a dinner on a hot night. The lights in the patio are adorable. We tried some of their tacos. Unfortunately, the portion is 3 same tacos and there is no mixed sampler. We could order one taco of any sort, but it was substantially more expensive (6.50$ per one). We still liked it, but would not do it again. The service is very professional and attentive. Definitely worth coming back.
(4)
Angela K.
I really love this place for good, honest, well-made mexican food! I've been in here multiple times for private events, happy hours, special occasions on the weekends, etc. The service is always immaculate, the food quality is amazing, and the drinks are yummy! Seriously, their house margarita is one of the best I've ever had because ITS SIMPLE! No nasty mixes in this one! This last week I went in for a late dinner on Thursday with a friend. We had no issues getting a table inside around 8:30 pm. We started with chips, salsa, and queso - all of which are delicious! She had the shrimp tacos which looked so fresh and tasty. She loved them! I had the pork belly tacos. Oh. My. Tastebuds. These tacos were so flavorful, the pork belly fried just right, and the pickled onions were a perfect compliment. I had some queso left over, so that went on them as well. You can't go wrong with adding cheese! I usually get the chicken and corn enchiladas because they are one of the most amazing things on this planet and I usually cannot stand the thought of missing out on the opportunity to have them when I go. I was NOT disappointed that I tried something new! This is not cheap mexican food folks, but the quality, service, and presentation are worth every single penny!
(5)
Jessie T.
Dayumm, Nada.. you do host a fine Happy Hour! I came here with my friends about a month ago after they had gone multiple times and had great experiences. We were seated immediately at the bar and there was only one other couple besides the three of us there, so it was a pleasant, relaxed time. I believe happy hour was from 4-6pm.. we got there at 4:30pm. We got the salsa and guacamole with chips to share (salsa chips refillable) and I ordered an order of the Nada fries and a shrimp taco.. everything was fantastic and tasted so fresh! My favorite was the Nada fries, which are quartered red potatoes that are fried and served with a side of green onion sour cream and a sweet chili sauce.. which paired perfectly.. it was a huge portion that could easily be shared between 2 people. Their white sangria was also fantastic and very refreshing. Everything was reasonably priced for happy hour and well worth your buck (I can't recall the exact cost, but I spent no more than $15 total and left very full). I am looking forward to coming here for lunch or dinner for sure!
(4)
Randolph W.
Been there twice now on business - once for lunch and once for dinner. Both visits were excellent. This place rocks. One of the best homemade guacamole and chips I've ever had. I could have had about 10 of their house margaritas but figured I needed to show up at my client the next morning for our 8 am meeting. I had the barbacoa tacos for dinner and their salad with chicken at the lunch. Great service. Last night for dinner the place was packed. I will be back.
(5)
Zack F.
So, nothing much has changed in terms of my opinion of the food and now that there are so many decent Mexican restaurants in the area, I'm not really compelled to go here for dinner. However, that being said, it's worth it for the location, the atmosphere, and the drinks and appetizers. Also, if the weather's nice, grab a drink from the bar and saunter out to lounge in the seats right out on the street. They do have a good premium tequila selection. I chose to hang out on the patio and read a book with a nice heavy pour of Jose Cuervo Reserva De La Familia. At a hefty $25, it's a splurge, however, again, it's a heavy pour and it's not that easy to get this stuff. Great for a balmy Summer evening outdoors as the sun begins to dip. The patio has good atmosphere with the seating, lighting, and plants. You are at once on the street and reserved from it.
(4)
James C.
Started with the guacamole and chips, always a good choice. Moved onto the cheeseburger sliders which were phenomenal. Then went with the chicken and green bean dish. All of this was devoured.
(4)
Matt J.
Had a great experience for my first time at Nada's. The atmosphere was great and the service was excellent. My server was very friendly and helpful. The chicken tacos were very good and was the perfect amount of food. Not a bad price either, wasn't overly expensive. Will be back.
(5)
Logan F.
We stopped here for a quick lunch after the Reds game. The chicken quesadillas were fantastic, probably the best I have ever had. The prices were a little high, but the place was very nice with great food.
(4)
Julie M.
Dan was our server tonight (2 adults, 3 kids). He was AWESOME! He went above and beyond!!
(5)
Vicky N.
I came here for a friend's birthday a few nights ago, and the polls do not lie! This is an excellent place for a nice dinner downtown. Nada an upscale Mexican-inspired restaurant in a great location, best for small groups or date night. We were greeted by friendly staff and a vibrant atmosphere. We came on a Friday with reservations, but this restaurant is extremely popular on the weekends. Our party was eventually seated after ~10 mins in the upstairs room. I ordered the Mexican mac & cheese and the pork belly tacos after reading the other reviews on them. I love that they put a twist on traditional Mexican food and mix flavors that work well together. They were both phenomenal and filling despite the deceptive portion sizes... The mac & cheese was creamy with just the right amount of jalapeño spice and breadcrumb crunch, and the pork belly was cooked to perfection. I had a taste of the chips & salsa, which were also just as delicious and are unlimited after the $2 purchase. I still think $16 is a little too steep for three (yes, THREE) tacos, even if they make the tortillas from scratch and grow the avocados for the guac themselves... What topped off the night was that our waiter was outstanding. He was very attentive and made sure we were satisfied with our food the entire time, even bringing out churros for the birthday gal at the end of our meal! If you want dessert, the churros will not disappoint -- they are served warm with a crispy, cinnamon-y outside and fluffy inside rich with flavor! No doubt Nada knows how to treat their customers well and put care into the quality of their food. Great place to go if you want a fancy night out!
Fantastic! I've eaten here twice. Once during lunch on a weekday and again with six people for lunch on a weekday. Nada was full of customers both times. The service is great. The servers are attentive and understand the menu. The food is amazing. The ingredients are very fresh and the dishes are created in a unique style. The menu is great. The food is innovative rather than authentic. I love it. I would recommend Nada to my friends.
(5)
Jessica M.
Gauc is super to start with. Had shrimp tacos which looked rather boring but has awesome flavor if you are going for a healthier option it's a win for sure. Ambience is good. Seems trendy. Great location and even has an upstairs bar and outside patio area. Coming from it of town as a 30something this was the perfect spot to crash on a Thursday eve.
(4)
Olwen C.
Two of my girlfriends and I had Saturday brunch/lunch at Nada last weekend and we LOVED it. Such an upscale modern restaurant in downtown Cincinnati. I ordered an Indian-Mexican inspired dish from the brunch menu. It was delicious. We also shared the salsa trio which was amazing, I loved the spicy and green salsas, the mild was unremarkable. The chips were too greasy, and there was way too much salt sprinkled on them, but overall I still give this experience 5 stars. Another thing to note is that you have to order and pay for chips and salsa. Our waiter was very nice, but on the slow side, as we sat and waited for a long time after finishing our food before he brought us our checks. The table next to us was seated, served, and gone way before us. If you get a doggy bag, they box everything up for you nicely! Would definitely come back again.
(5)
Eames E.
Nada? More like I wanna NADAff to sleep after this meal!!!!! Just joshing folks, let's get to what really waters here-The agua. Agua heads can feel solace in that this restaurants water lives up to the establishments eponymous um well the name of the place. there are no notes of sweetness, sulfur, syrup, or fluoride. This water here has got nothin in it but 2 H's and 1 O guys! simplicity is the essence of brevity of wit Oscar Wilde once said and I think that applies here, folks.
(5)
Vanessa K.
Meh. We've heard that Nada wasn't really as great as it looks, but we were downtown on the 4th of July and it was one of the few places with no wait, so we decide to give it a try. It was ok. But not that great. For the price, I would expect much better food. The service was good, but it was just subpar food for an upscale restaurant. For about $5 less a plate it would have been fine. You are totally paying for location.
(2)
Brooklyn B.
Just stopped here for lunch and had a wonderful experience. The staff was very friendly in providing me and my family with a great overall experience. The food was also very tasty. Everyone in my group enjoyed their meal. All of the meals were very flavorful! We split the trio of salsas and loved each salsa's individual unique taste. Personally, I would recommend getting the taco salad. I was lost in the splendid flavor of the dish, so I lost track of how much I was consuming. However, I savored every last bite.
(5)
Kevin W.
Line is a bit long - but seating at the bar is usually immediately available; and they serve food there too. Ordering nachos and salsa is usually pretty lame - but the chips here are awesome. They fry tortillas on site, resulting in a crunchy, textured chip that holds sauces well. We ordered both salsa and queso - the homemade salsa was excellent, but the queso was pretty standard. Shrimp tacos were pretty insubstantial to be honest; they come with a rather paltry bowl of rice on the side. That said, I left pretty satisfied, given the enormous number of chips I ate prior to the arrival of the mains. In short - order the nachos to start; you won't regret it.
(4)
Christina H.
This is, by far, my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati! I've been here a few times, and have always been very satisfied with my experience for a number of reasons: 1) The trendy, modern, intricate decor. It's artsy, it's colorful, and even the outside is gorgeous, with string lights and lanterns hanging from the tree branches. 2) The sparkling sangria. Just order it and you'll see. (Also, definitely consider going there for happy hour on weekdays, even if it is just to get the sparkling sangria. Margaritas are good, too.) 3) The service. I find that the staff is always friendly, attentive, and knowledgable. 4) The quality of the food, of course! I've tried the sliders, salmon, pork belly tacos, and fish tacos. I personally liked all of it - very flavorful, very unique, and great presentation. It seems like you can't go wrong, no matter what you order here. It's not cheap, but it's definitely worth a visit (or two, or five)!
(5)
Yuna D.
I came here with my boyfriend--we've been meaning to check the place out ever since I moved here. Love hanging out here, and the drinks are great. Service is super duper fast, but still really friendly. However, I don't exactly enjoy it when the servers just take your plate before asking if you're done. I would've liked to pick at my chips, thank you very much. Mimosa was fine. Not particularly memorable, but refreshing enough on a Sunday afternoon. I got the pork belly tacos, and the mister got the chicken tacos. I love salty food, but between the chips, queso, and the tacos, I was downing water like a guppy for hours after. tl;dr Great atmosphere to watch the game, but I'm not too keen on the salty food here. Drinks are pretty pricey.
(3)
Cindy G.
This review deserves an update and another star (if there was one to give) because people of Cincinnati -- this Happy Hour is where it's at! Drinks: nadarita - $5 sangria rojo / blanco - $5 sparkling sangria - $6 cazadores blanco - $3 buffalo trace bourbon - $3 tito's vodka - $3 domestic beers 12 oz. - $2 mexican beers 12 oz. - $3 pacifico draft 16 oz. - $3 Food: salsa trio - $2 fire roasted tomato salsa + jalapeño verde salsa + habañero-garlic kreeper salsa guacamole - $3.50 avocado + tomatillo + crudite slider - $3 angus beef + steamed onions + velveeta + jalapeño mexican mac n' cheese - $4 (the best in the city imo) fresh cheeses + roasted poblano + jalapeño chicken taquitos - $4 crispy chicken tacos + asadero cheese + tomatillo boca fries - $3 cracked red potatoes + chive crema + mae ploy crispy shrimp taco - $4 (drool - so so good!) sriracha aioli + crispy shallots + arugula + charred corn grilled chicken taco - $4 black bean puree + pico de gallo + chihuahua cheese + guacamole carnitas taco - $4 braised pork + pickled onions + guacamole gringo style (mild) / diablo style (spicy) Get here today, tomorrow, right now... i don't care just get here! Monday-friday 3:00-6:00pm. And if this list isn't convincing enough, check out my pictures. Enjoy!
(5)
Sonya L.
I loved everything about this restaurant. It is hard to find good Mexican food these days. Nada has mastered this cuisine at their lively, bright and colorful restaurant in downtown Cincinnati. My sister-in-law recommended this place and we came as a group. The service was excellent. Our waiter allowed us to sample wines before we chose and gave us plenty of time to enjoy our time together. He was very helpful in making decisions on the menu. We started with guacamole and salsa and it did not disappoint. Everything was very fresh. Everyone at our table enjoyed their entrees. I tasted one of my husband's taco's and I thought it was excellent. I got a goat cheese and beet salad which was the size of an entree. It was the best salad I've ever had. It had fried goat cheese and a sweet dressing on it that I could definitely go back there for. The ambiance at this place is great for groups or dates because of the relaxing but fun vibe. There is an upstairs with an additional bar. The bathrooms also had TV's in the mirrors. I really loved how there were so many windows to let in natural light. I'm sure this place looks really cool at night too. We took pictures outside because we even thought the exterior was awesome. There is lots of outdoor seating if you happen to go on a beautiful fall evening.
(5)
Mary V.
We came here on a friend recommendation and was not disappointed. Great atmosphere. Food and drinks. Loved the barbacoa tacos and the shroom tacos.
(5)
Brittney R.
This is a review of the brunch - highly recommend as a nice brunch spot that takes reservations (!!!), perfect for visitors in town or a special day. Between the 4 of us we tried several of the cocktails- bloody mary, bloody maria, sparkling grapefruit, sparkling blood orange and drunken coffee. They were all great, the bloody mary didn't come with a ton of accompaniments, but the mix was great. For brunch we had double gauc - a definite must at nada, huevos rancheros, cartinas tamal, french toast and the tinga & fried egg. I had the most of the tinga and egg, great flavor, the spice level was really nice - same with the huevos. We had great service on the patio and it has made it back on my go-to list!
(5)
Eugene K.
Went to nada twice, won't go back a third time. The ambiance is great, the menu looked great and service was as expected for this type of restaurant. However the food was pretty salty both times I went, and I was with a party of 5 the first time and 8 the second time, so we had a solid consensus of salty food. Next time I have a craving for Mexican I will stick to Bakersfield. *** side note *** They added gratuity the second time I went (which is 20%), I guess I can't blame them since I treated some of my guests out and they were younger and not "dressed" for the occasion. I would've tipped 20%+ for the service anyway but it has been a long time since I've been gratted at a meal. This part doesn't really add or retract from my review since I base it off the food most of the time.
(3)
Katie F.
Nada is such a great, versatile downtown restaurant. It's not often you can find a place that works for a business lunch, a birthday dinner with a group of friends, or a romantic night with someone. Every time I have eaten at Nada I have been given a consistent experience. Fast, friendly, knowledgeable service and delicious food. The atmosphere feels casual, upbeat, modern, and somehow intimate despite the enormity of the place. For starters, you must get the guacamole, end of story. Lobster bisque soup is also realllllllyyyyyyy good. And I would also recommend saving room for dessert because they are mouthwatering delicious. I will continue going to Nada again and again for all sorts of occassions!
(5)
Amanda C.
Food: 4 (if you order the right thing), Service: 2 I came here in a group of 25 for some good ol hangover Sunday brunch. It was the best meal I had in Cincinnati but I guess that isn't saying much since I had Domino's pizza 3 times... Eggs benedicto with Crab (2/5): There is NO CRAB IN HERE. Total ripoff!! When we asked the waiter where the crab is he said it was inside the hollandaise sauce. Well it must have been real mixed in there because you can't see it at all. Eggs benedicto with goetta (5/5): Goetta is awesome! Never had it before, it's like hash browns with pork in it. And it's existent. Tinga and eggs cazuela (5/5): The braised chicken was cooked excellently. Highly recommend this dish, it's unique and fills you up! Chips with guac: (3/5) Chips are freshly fried and pretty oily, single order of guac feels like a ripoff. $7 for a small bowl. Service (2/5): Waiters were unattentive, hardly came around to refill water and had to chase him down to order some chips/guac. Also had to wait forever to get our bill. **Great for groups! Got a private room on the top floor with 4 round tables.
(3)
Tiera A.
Great for brunch, lunch and dinner! Nada is definitely a downtown staple. In the ever-changing downtown Cincy scene, Nada has continued to hold its own. They're known for good food, good cocktails and a good time. If you're in the mood for some good Mexican food, this is a great choice.
(4)
Stephanie W.
Went here on a Sunday evening, we were seated immediately by the window. We ordered the chips and salsa both were very good and refillable. The waiter was very attentive. We ordered fish tacos and crispy shrimp tacos. I ordered the guacamole on the side. I am glad I did it was not horrible but it lacked in flavor. The drinks were tasty so, I can understand why this is a popular happy hour spot for young professionals. The water server kept our glasses full. All staff members were friendly and kind. I would try Nada's again. The atmosphere and ambience of the place was cool, perfect spot for date night or girls night out.
(4)
Troy J.
The menu and atmosphere of Nada is inviting. So is the staff. The waiter helped me choose from a wide array of tequilas -- and let me sample three of Nada's eight (braised pork, chicken, fish, short rib, shrimp, salmon, vegetarian and pork belly) taco choices. The Baja-style fish taco and diablo-style pork taco (with some spice) were very good. However, the pork belly taco was out-of-this world good. Crispy. Melty. Bacon-y. Nirvana. Come for the Tacos. Don't fill up on chips.
We went to Nada for date night. We had a reservation so only had to wait a few minutes for our table. Our waiter was nice enough although he got my order wrong. I ordered shrimp tacos and got Baja fish tacos. They were good but not what I ordered. We had chips and salsa which was good enough. Everything was fine but it's over priced in my opinion. $16-$20 bucks for some tacos seems like a bit much. We had a gift card so it didn't matter as much but I probably wouldn't go back.
(3)
Alisha W.
This is a great place in the heart of downtown! Everything I've eaten is excellent! The chicken tacos were a favorite until I tried the chicken and corn enchiladas. Holy cow! It's the thing dreams are made of! The guac is so fresh, I love it. The chips are homemade and come out warm, which is always a good sign. The nadarita is great. It's refreshing and smooth. The downside is that the space is so cramped. You feel like you're sitting on top of other tables and you can easily hear all the other conversations around you. Also, everything seems a bit overpriced. The guac will run you $7 and it's really only enough for two people. At the end of the day, this is a great restaurant with great ambiance. We love to take visitors to Nada and I've been there for business dinners several times. It's a really unique experience that people seem to really enjoy. Check out the desserts, they're always great!
(4)
Lauren J.
Nada never fails to deliver the best food and atmosphere, be it for a weekday lunch or nighttime noshing after a show. My coworker and I popped in here for a quick lunch and to catch up. It was gorgeous enough to do outside seating, but with the road construction going on that day we wanted something a bit more quiet. After we said hi to some other coworkers eating at the bar, we were seated upstairs and found it to be pretty busy for 11:30 on a weekday! Our server was fantastic, and brought our drinks, chips and salsa out quickly. We ordered a side of guacamole- and holy mole I'm glad we did. I don't know how they make their chips, but they were perfect... We might have had 2 baskets... They are so light and extra crunchy, almost like a double layered tortilla fried in heaven. The guac had huge chunks of avocado in it and was quickly devoured. The salsa was fresh and flavorful. Our food came out quickly. We both ordered the barbacoa tacos (2 per plate), she got the side of beans and I ordered the side salad. The salad was a bit small, but with the mountain of chips we inhaled I didn't need much more. The tacos were honestly the best I have ever had. We had to be careful eating them because the juice ran out the other side when you picked it up. The meat was tender, shredded and season perfectly, lined up on a soft corn tortilla waiting to be devoured, and was simply perfect. It was so good you would put the entire taco down before taking another bite so your mouth can identify the spices, sweet flavorings, and different textures of what you just bit off. That has to be happiness. The only thing that would have made it better was if it was after work so I could enjoy a grapefruit martini... Bravo Nada!
(5)
Mary Clare B.
So good! The mexican mac n' cheese is a must! Reasonably priced for what you get. We had a view of the kitchen - - - dinner and a show = perfection.
(5)
Stephanie K.
Upon walking into this restaurant, my experience started out a little iffy. There was no host to greet us for literally 5 minutes. I ended up walking up to the bartender to ask what I was supposed to do. They assured me someone would help us. I guess a manager noticed and offered a complimentary queso dip appetizer to us. Ummm that Queso dip is freaking amazing. There was chorizo in it that made it so so tasty. The chips are thick cut and freshly fried (kind of like a nice greasey fried pita chip). I also had the pork belly tacos. Easily one of the best pork belly dishes I've had. I kept eyeing my husband after every bite with a big smile on my face and he would just nod in silent agreement.
(4)
Jason S.
More guacamole please! I visited for lunch and was really impressed. The menu was simple but everything we ordered was very well done. The waiter recommended the black bean puree. It was delicious and very unique. The Guac was amazing. I had the grilled chicken tacos with the diablo sauce and loved them.
(4)
Prisha P.
Was in town for a wedding and came across this place by walking around. Went there for brunch and started off with Bloody Mary and fresh OJ which was excellent. Bloody Mary was very spicy exactly how i ordered it. For brunch we ordered Pork Green Chile Enchiladas which was amazing.. it came in a skillet and the pork was so tender.. the sauce was very tasty Tinga & Egg Cazuela was my favorite dish. Recommended by our server this dish was filled with flavors from the spicy tomato (not too spicy) and the chorizo was cooked to perfection. Highly recommend this place. Wish we could've tried the dinner bc the menu looked good as well.
(5)
Thomas C.
Summary: Modern Mexican "dinner and drinks" place, perfect for a night downtown Tip: Get the mac and cheese as an appetizer. It's always cooked well with a little jalapeno mixed in for a perfect kick. Ambience/Service: This place is a great date place. Dimly lit, well-spaced tables with some nice outdoor seating as well when weather permits. Upstairs there is more seating with another bar. Service is always solid here, although nothing particularly memorable. Food (I'm vegetarian): I always get their vegetarian tacos which are primarily portobello. They've got great flavor, pretty mushroom-y if you like it. The tacos and the mac and cheese are plenty filling. The mac and cheese is something I crave. Perfect pasta with a perfect cheese sauce with jalapenos with a nice breadcrumb topping that's baked together. Perfect. Overall: This is a great night out downtown for a dinner, drinks, and whatever else afterwards. It's perfectly located near the Aronoff Center for a show or plenty of other night life around town.
(4)
Nada B.
I brought a large group of friends here when my mother and sister were in town. We had a reservation and were seated right away at a large round table. The service was good and fast. I got the grapefruit margarita and definitely enjoyed it. However, the food was so salty, almost to the point of inedible. Mexican food can generally be salty, but this time the overwhelming taste was salt and the whole table agreed it was consistent across our plates. We even made a comment to the server who brushed it off. The atmosphere and drinks were great, and the food would have been given 5 stars, if it weren't for the over seasoning
(3)
Dana C.
My only complaint is that I ate so much I was actually uncomfortable! Try the Nadarita... it's to die for with just a touch of honey. The pitcher is a great deal at $28. Pitcher held just shy of 6 glasses, which would gave been $7 a piece if ordered individually. The queso was amazing. Rich and creamy as it should be. For my main, I had the grilled chicken tacos. ... I could eat them every day, I'm sure. Also at my table was the pork belly tacos, fish tacos, and a chicken/chorizo stew-type thing.... nobody had a single complaint. We were all stuffed but decided to get some desserts anyway... Butterscotch flan with coconut creme. Need I say more? My mouth is watering again...
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Valet, Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Trendy Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Eric N.
My wife and I's favorite place to get Mexican!
(5)Mary T.
Flavor packed Mexican Rick Bayless style. Get reservations.
(5)Khwaja H.
Good apps. Decent drinks.
(4)Sean B.
Occupying the former Bella space next to the Aronoff, this new restaurant from the owners of Boca in Oakley adds another boost for locally-owned businesses downtown. The space itself has undergone a significant makeover, more soothing earth tones, and is a generally more relaxed atmosphere. On a Tuesday evening before seeing Wicked next door, the place was packed, so we elected to sit at the bar to eat, rather than wait for a table. The drinks, especially the Pink Grapefruit Margarita, were excellent and service was efficient, communicative, and friendly. Chips and salsa came after our drinks and were a bit of a letdown. The chips are made from flour -- a no-no in any authentic Mexican restaurant -- and consequently heavy and oily. The salsa was OK, but nothing to write home about. Fortunately, this was all rescued by an order of guacamole, which was fresh, flavorful, and more than enough. The bartender recommended the tacos, Mexican mac-n-cheese, and the grilled "niman ranch" pork chop. We tried all three and all were excellent. The mahi-mahi tacos, served with guacamole and lime, were crispy, flaky, and delicious -- reminding us of living in Southern California. The Mexican mac-n-cheese had a nice zing to it and was quite honestly enough for a meal -- not the side we intended. My pork chop, a thick cut, bone-in piece of meat was served over spicy, mashed plantains (great!) and with a orange habanero sauce. My wife said it was the best pork chop she ever had, and I am inclined to agree (at least in recent memory). Nada is a welcome addition to downtown -- we are definitely going to go back -- hopefully they will have changed the chips by then.
(4)Silvana D.
My family and I are here in Cincinnati for a week and read reviews online from various sites that raved about this restaurant. I am sad to say that we were very disappointed with the food here. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and downtown location. They only had one beer on draft, but at least it was good. The guacamole and chips were our favorite part. VERY disappointed with our food portions and taste. It was not gourmet at all and was very bland. My kids wouldn't even finish their chicken tacos. I ordered the chicken and corn enchilada. My husband ordered something different but was brought my s
(2)James W.
Eggs Benedict with crab was decent. Decor and service left no complaints. They served a local specialty called "goetta" which I should advise out-of-towners is definitely an acquired taste.
(3)Jo P.
Food was really good, even great. But the service was not so great. The hostess seemed to move people around as the mood struck. We were at first told that there were 2 tables in front of us. An hour later we began to question and realized that there were others who seemed to be put in front of us. The hostess claimed they were "reservations" but I question that. Also, we sat outside and there was a weird hot smell that seemed to come from the lights being too close to the flower boxes...gave me a headache!
(3)Bob D.
Great food, great device and great drinks, patio dining was excellent.
(5)Laura H.
The atmosphere is vibrant, the food is good, the drinks are strong. This is the kind of place to meet up with girlfriends before a night out on the town. Yes, it's overpriced for "mexican" but I still recommend that you check it out.
(4)Bruce h.
We all went for the first time. We had the most delicious lunch. Honestly we spent more on drinks because they had so many tasty margaritas! The only annoyance was trying to find the bathroom! (upstairs down the hall, on the right whew!)
(5)Jennifer B.
I found myself stranded in Cincinnati thanks to Snowmageddon 2010 in Atlanta and decided to venture outside my hotel for dinner. A short walk from the downtown Westin, Nada was packed when I arrived at 6pm. The snooty hostess told me there was three-hour wait for a table but that bar seating was first come, first serve, and sure enough a spot opened up after about five minutes. I opted for the shrimp tacos - recommended by the helpful bartender - and chips and salsa. Both were divine and the service at the bar was excellent. The couple sitting next to me was chowing down on guac and said it was terrific. A few other reviewers have dissed the chips, which are thicker than regular chips, but I found them to be tasty. The presentation of the food was very sophisticated.... would expect to find this kind of modern take on Mexican/Latin food in LA, not downtown Cinci.
(4)Erin A.
Checked this place out while visiting family over the holidays. We thought the food was tasty. Coming from California where excellent Mexican food is on every corner, I must say, I think Nada would give some of those Cali joints a run for their money. Service was good too! I wouldn't recommend ordering shots of Patron, they were way expensive. Place looks nice inside, contemporary, and is in a good location.
(4)Cameron S.
Awesome food! Awesome atmosphere! We are from Utah and would come back just for this place! A must place to eat!!!
(5)Jo T.
Nada had amazing carnitas tacos and sangria! A great time for a night out, but plan to spend more than you realize - especially if you're with a drinkin' crowd!
(4)Harshal P.
Went to Nada after work for drinks and appetizers on Thursday. The Positives: The staff was courteous and the food was good and promptly served. Very clean inside including bathroom and nice outside patio area. Negatives: Parking maybe difficult as it's located downtown but there are garages nearby. The place is a bit pricey, but you are at an upscale resturaunt.
(4)Sophie M.
Very tasty, pleasant experience. Waitstaff john gave us detailed info about each dish and his passion for the place was evident. The Mac & cheese may not be traditional Mexican, but it was creamy, cheesy and delicious. Chips and salsa ($2) was just right. Chicken Taquitos were good and all served promptly. The Margarita selection is quite inventive.
(4)Nicholas L.
Over 150 reviews for this place, so I doubt there is much more I can add, but I just stopped by here on a business trip yesterday and all I can really add to this lively online critique network is that you need to just fucking go here. Seriously. And get the carnitas tacos.
(5)Katie J.
amazing atmosphere and incredible food - best mac and cheese ever! love this place everyway you look at it.
(5)Mike S.
Great food, energetic service, trendy... very good experience.
(4)Alex S.
Nada is full of overpriced but overly delicious food, which makes it hard for me to hate it. In fact, I really do like it. When looking at the menu, I suffer from the same feeling I do when I go to upscale Asian eateries. I'm used to Asian and Mexican food being cheap, and when it's not, it makes my eyes budge like the wolf in a Tex Avery cartoon (yeah, dropping old school references tonight). Still, I had heard so many amazing things about Nada, I was ready to put my checkbook fears aside and dive into the foodstuffs. I went on a date with my gal on a Thursday evening at about 5:30pm. I had thought about making reservations earlier that day, but went, "Nah, it's 5:30 on a Thursday. Who's going to be there?" Turns out: everyone! The 5:30pm Thursday Nada crowd is filled with large groups of businessmen and businesswomen coming in right after work for a margarita (again, an upscale margarita) and they fill up most of the tables. Crazy. My gal and I were seated right away though, but at a semi-awkward table right underneath the stairs. Not a big problem and it was my own fault. Next time - reservations. Now, what to get? We started with chips, salsa and guacamole, because, let's be fair, what else do you start with when at a Mexican restaurant. I'm used to chips being complimentary, like bread, but I was ok with paying $2, especially because they were clearly homemade and light and flaky and delicious. However, the $7 extra for guacamole was just not worth it. It was fine, but nothing amazing - and for $7 for a dip, it better be amazing. However, my meal. Oh my god, my meal. Oh my god. I got the pork-bellied tacos on a recommendation and they were everything I could have hoped for - delicious on about a million levels. If you can, get these, get these now. Do it! Do it now! Plus, the serves were friendly and attentive. Even the people who came to buss the table and pick up plates spoke to me and were nice - plus, they refilled my drink. I love when I don't have to wait for my specific waiter to get a refill. That's just nice. So although I started a bit shocked, I ended quite satisfied. I can't really beat that.
(4)Ray L.
This is a good, nice place for a twist on Mexican. I say twist, because you won't really find anything traditional - more like American, slightly dressed up takes on the cuisine. Guacamole and salsa were very good. Guacamole was creamy and flavorful, but pretty small for a "large" size. The salsa's smoky, not too spicy. Chips are hot and fresh. Thick too, which I love. They could work on degreasing them a bit before serving, however. I got the baja fish tacos, which were good but not really what I was hoping for at the time. The server told us that the weren't really breaded, just dusted with flour and flash fried. Not true. They were very breaded. I'm not saying they weren't good, they just weren't what I was expecting. My friend got the chicken tacos, and she wins on picking the better dish. Nothing crazy going on there, but good flavors on the chicken and tons of cheese. If I ever crave a chicken taco, it will probably be theirs for a little while. I give it four stars for the entire experience of eating there. The ambiance is great, nice furniture, floor to ceiling windows (I think), really open and airy. This is a good place to take someone for some margaritas and solid food.
(4)Kristin C.
So, I love Nada. I am finally getting around to writing this review. First of all let me say- I LOVE the guys who valet there. I valet every time I go to Nada. Call me lazy, but really it's mostly that I'm just always running RIGHT on time so I was pulling up to valet at 7:30 on the dot, the exact time of our reservation. I always tip $5 when I pull in and $5 when I leave. I have to say they take care of me- I left my phone in my car and the guy ran up to ask if I needed it and then ran back AGAIN to give it to me as I was walking in. Anyway... I go on random tangents sometimes, sorry about that. The atmosphere might be my favorite part about Nada. I like going there with a decent sized group (which we did tonight). They play fun music, overall it's just a nice place to be. I think it would be a nice place to go for a date too. The food is basically amazing. I usually get quesadillas that aren't listed on the menu- and then cover them in habanero. Another must- the strawberry margaritas are delicious. By the time we got our food I was so full from my drinks that I didn't eat 75% of my meal. I never do carry out but I actually asked her to box it up. Sadly, the server mixed up our carry out bags and handed me the wrong one. I was super sad when I realized this. I'm sure my friend won't enjoy my quesadillas drenched in hot sauce either. So, that sort of bummed me out since.. But, I'm not one to get upset over food. It actually irritates me when people do. Oh well, I will still give it a 5 star rating and next time I will check my bag before I go, lesson learned I suppose!
(5)Samantha H.
I went here for a workday lunch and it was good. But not quite as good as the prices suggest. The guacamole was great but I've had even better.
(4)Alvin J.
Big fan. Beautiful atmosphere with warm inviting lighting. Brazilian theme. Spacious bar. Outdoor seating available. Friendly and attentive service. I definitely recommend it to anyone going for night out in downtown Cincinnati looking for a trendy new spot to hangout.
(4)Edith M.
Nada has the best margaritas in Cincinnati.They don't use "mixers" and you can tell right off the bat. My favorite dish is their ceviche,creamy guacamole,vegetarian tacos and queso fundito. I am not a HUGE fan of their nachos because they are so greasy that oil drips down my chin. Love their bar area.
(4)Therese W.
I was there to meet some friends after work and we only had about an hour. The hostess made us feel unwelcome and that we needed to be gone in an hours because there were reservations for our table. The server also said we needed to be gone in an hour. The food was pretty good, but we will not be back after work or without a reservation. Seriously rude service at eh front of the house!
(3)Carrie M.
I have only been here once, because I don't live here; but Nada's great service was part of a night I'll never forget! My boyfriend and I had just wrapped up seeing Les Miserables at the Aronoff... oh, and getting engaged. So, my new fiance and I were wandering downtown Cinci looking for someplace to get dessert to celebrate, only to discover CINCINNATI HAS ZERO NIGHTLIFE. It was almost 10. We walked up to the door of this place, saw on the sign it was closing in a few minutes, and kept on walking. To our surprise, someone came to the door and asked us what we needed, and upon hearing that all we wanted was a quick dessert, told us to come in anyway. These poor people had no problem closing a half hour late so we could celebrate our engagement and made our special night that much better. Oh, and the desserts were great!
(5)Sam T.
The food is FANTASTICO! Really great drinks and the gaspacho, although a small portion, is delicious. The atmosphere is super fun and its a nice mix of people. Prices are decent and sitting outside if the weather permits is really nice. We have come both with and without a reservation and have had no difficulty getting seated quickly, even on a Saturday night.
(5)Todd M.
Who knew? Who knew that you could take a taco - make it with shrimp and avocado and charred corn and a bunch of other tasty green stuff and come up with something that tastes like a tortilla-wrapped margarita? The folks at Nada knew. Great food - great service - muy buena cervasa list- nice ambience. If you're near you should go.
(4)Angela C.
Mexican has never, unfortunately, been among my favorite food genres. I cannot explain this. However, I do appreciate a good, modern take at Mexican and Nada has pulled all the goodness together. Eric and I finally dined there with his parents and very much enjoyed it, which is a good sign, since not all of us are very adventurous eaters. The server was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the food, and incredibly friendly. We started with the queso fundido and then shared the fajitas, enchiladas, and an order of tacos together, which ended up being more than enough food. I very much wanted to try the pork-bellied tacos on Alex's recommendation, but didn't think I'd be able to talk the in laws into that one. Anyway, the steak in the fajitas was oh-so-tasty, the enchiladas had a very delicious sauce, and the carnitas tacos were great, too. All in all, a great dining experience, and a great place for groups or dates, but probably would not be a regular dining spot since it's quite pricey.
(4)Khai N.
I was visiting from Los Angeles and didn't have high expectations going into this place. My initial thought was, "what does Cincy know about Mexican food?" Much to my surprise, Nada can compete with any Mexican restaurant in LA. I shared the queso dip and ceviche appetizer with my wife. Then we had the pork belly tacos -- amazing! We were full by then, but decided to order additional tacos a la carte -- fish, carnitas, and barbaquoa. Everything we tried at Nada was delicious. I will definitely try again next time we are in Cincy. Rise up Cincy! Go Bengals!!!!
(5)Phoebe G.
A great place to go for happy hour or dinner. I also love to go in the summer and spring and sit outside. The margaritas are great!! They also have a wonderful breakfast menu, believe it or not. The fruit salad was so fresh. I love the decor as well!
(4)Janice C.
On an overnight in Cincinnati recently, I decided to stroll down to Nada for an early (by Cincinnati standards - 7:30) dinner. Having read reviews before going, I had high hopes for tasty modern Latin fare, and I was not disappointed. I snagged a seat at the bar before the place got really packed and ordered a mojito. Bar service, especially when you're dining alone, can be hit or miss. The bartender here struck just the right balance of helpful, friendly, but not obtrusive. I settled on gazpacho made with local tomatoes for a starter. Wow! If you've ever had the misfortune of having an insipid gazpacho made from supermarket tomatoes, you know how disappointing it can be. This was the antithesis of that -- bright, tartness offset by the crema, a lovely smooth texture counterbalanced by the tiny croutons studded throughout. I had to stop myself from running my finger around the cup after I finished. For my main course, I ordered the green chili pork with salsa verde. WITH the fried egg option, thank you very much. I dove into the slow cooked, tender pork, piling some crema and rice onto the tortillas that come with it. Delicious. I ate as much as I possibly could, knowing there was no way to save any leftovers (bummer), then left with appetite satisfied and mood elevated.
(4)Olivia O.
Hostess said a table would take an hour and fifteen minutes, she took my number and said she'd call when our table was ready. Before heading across the street I checked in with her to make sure she would call. She said she would. We came back an hour or so later and were told we were next on the list. So we went upstairs for a glass of wine while we waited. After watching several other parties seated, despite us being "next on the list", I checked back in with her. She was surprised to see me and said she thought we'd left. If so, why didn't she call me? She told me she'd call TWICE. Come on. As we were seated, the other hostess apologized and told us another couple stole our table. Yeah right. No need to lie to your customers. Lamb mole was good, but I didn't feel welcome here at all. We won't be coming back. Ceviche tastes like fruit loops.
(2)Louise D.
Have been back twice to Nada and enjoyed it a lot more than the first time. The outside terrace is perfect for a hot spring evening! I tried the cazuela taster, which came out as 3 rather big pots, with 3 tacos. A lot of food...! And delicious. The second time we came here after drinks so we occupied the "private area". I tried the barbacoa tacos and they were exactly the way they should be, just the thing I needed... Still a bit expensive to my taste, but I guess that's just Nada - a hip downtown venue with amazing food and a great terrace and private dining area -- so no matter how much they charge, people will always be going back. And so will I.
(4)Elizabeth W.
All of the bad stuff you've heard is true: yes it's expensive, yes it's crowded, yes the portions are small, yes you will wait for table. So why does it remain one of the most popular places in Cincinnati? Something about the mix of atmosphere, excellent food, attentive service, and my new favorite drinks (spicy margaritas, beer and bloody mary mix, and fresh mojitos to name a few) keep this place on the short list of places to be.
(3)Paul S.
Excellent food! Loved the sopa app and the pork belly taco. Had the best margarita ever but since it was a specialty that the waitress recommended i don't know what it was.
(5)Sarah G.
I recently made the drive to Cincinnati to cheer on Christine R. in the flying pig marathon. It was the first night in Cinci and me and all my friends were hungry for some Mexican. We headed over to Nada pretty early in the night (around 6) and we were told there was a 2 hour wait to sit inside. Boo! Luckily fate was shining upon us that day. There just so happened to be a huge 8 person table outside calling our name. We were a little worried about the weather as it looked like it may rain but we took our chances and I am SO GLAD we did. Service was fantastic from the moment we sat down. The waitress was extremely friendly and very helpful when we had any questions. We all started off with some of their fabulous drinks. Mango margaritas, classic margaritas, mojitos...all delicous. I am currently pregnant so sadly I could not partake...but they were able to make an amazing virgin cocktail that was sort of like a fresh squeezed lemonade with muddled blueberries. It was sooooo good. The menu is not very large but EVERYTHING sounded delicous. At first I was a bit turned off that they charged for chips and salsa but we were quickly advised when we ordered guacamole we get unlimited chips and salsa. Yes :) The guac was very good and the chips came out hot. I love hot chips!! For our meal most of us decided we wanted tacos. However, we just could not decide on which ones to get. Our awesome waitress advised us that we could mix and match the tacos and we all smiled with happiness. All of the tacos were amazing. Shrimp, pork, vegetarian, fish. YUM. My favorite was the short rib taco. It was cooked to perfection and delicous (how many times have I said delicous in this review? I know the word count is getting pretty high). I really have no complaints about our meal here. The food was awesome, the service top notch and the place was adorable. Even the bathrooms were decorated super sassy. Stained glass on the bathroom doors and a tv showing Mexican soap operas? Love it. If you happen to be in Cinci I definitely suggest adding Nada to your dining choices. I promise you will not be disappointed. I want to make a trip back to Ohio just so I can dine here again!
(5)Will M.
Nada is another 3-times-a-month restaurant for me. No lie - I love the food. The sliders are fantastic. Every taco I've had is fantastic. The slow cooked dishes are fantastic. The real winner, though, is the chicken and corn enchiladas. They're unlike anything I've had before and they're amazing. The staff is great, too. I often sit at the bar, and the bartenders are all great. As is the sangria, I might add - best in Cincinnati. The only knock I can give Nada is that it's a touch too trendy. Just a touch, but it feels inauthentic and it feels like it's trying too hard to be cool. It is cool, no need to try. Makes you feel a bit like a jerk telling people it's one of your favorite places, like you're that mortgage broker whose aging BMW 3 Series was set on fire by Walter White. Like your name is Brad and you still high five people despite being in your late 30s. Like you talk loudly on your cellphone about slam-dunking the Henderson account. In other words, like you think you're an important businessman but are really in account management. Still great food, great drinks, and a fun place. And the best brunch item in the city - the steak and egg fajitas. An absolute mess, but such a delicious mess.
(5)Will Z.
Pork. Belly. Tacos. OMG. The first bite of this amazing heavenly creation was an explosion of gluttony and bliss. Crisp, rich, pork belly melted in my mouth and meshed perfectly with smooth guacamole, crunch pickled vegetables, and nice hot salsa. By far the best taco I'd ever eaten in my life. Pork belly may be somewhat of a restaurant cliche now, but it's still one of my favorite ingredients. Unless you're Kosher, you absolutely must try these tacos. Through my two visits, I've also tried mashed plantains, ceviche, lamb mole, and chips and salsa. The mashed plantains were very good, nice and buttery, sweet, and garlicky. Ceviche was kinda meh; I've had much better. Lamb mole was good. Unlimited chips and salsa are a steal for $2 and definitely a must if you're hungry, since the portions here aren't so big for the money. I liked the environment a lot though, and there's a great patio outside for nicer days.
(4)Linsey G.
Everyone loves this place, and really, it's no secret why. I'm not a very classy broad, but being at this restaurant catapults me into feeling like I'm among Cincinnati's elite. The ambiance is sophisticated and romantic, but it doesn't feel stuffy. It can get pretty crowded and noisy, but I think that's part of its appeal. The food is great. Nada's chips and guacamole are fantastic, as well as the mahi mahi tacos. The first time I'd been last year, our server was awesome. When I went earlier this week, our server was equally friendly, helpful and knowledgeable, but perhaps a little too negligent between taking drink and food orders. Besides that, I really don't have any complaints. It's a great place for a date, or--as we dined earlier this week--to catch up with old friends. It's versatile and perfect for any occasion, and--in my case--serves as a reminder that I can feel much classier than I actually am.
(4)Tim L.
Hip, tasty, and not too pricey. Without a doubt some of the best Mexican food I've had in the city.
(5)Sarah D.
This is probably the nicest Mexican restaurant in Cincinnati, certainly the nicest I've been to. The atmosphere was nice and I have no complaints about the service. I definitely recommend their sparkling sangria! If you're a cilantrophobe like me, you will have to skip out on a lot of dishes though. Going to a more authentic Mexican restaurant this is expected of course. Next time I have a hankering for Mexican and have a little room in the food budget, I'll definitely be back!
(4)Jenny T.
Great food and atmosphere. I was expecting plain, tasteless Mexican like most places in Cincy, but this was not the case. I got the premium margarita and Baja fish tacos. The tacos could've had a little more spice to them but overall a great place!
(4)Steve S.
I went there late at night with a few friends who had a few to many drinks. The service was top notch as they worked with my drunk friends and served them in a professional manner. We ordered the chicken and fish taco, which tasted great. I would recommend trying them to anyone. More to come as I sober up:)
(3)Namrata A.
As a New Yorker, who has tried the worst and best of Mexican food (including California and the actual deal in Mexico City), I really enjoyed Nada. Went here for dinner around 9pm on a Sunday night. We were promptly seated (a bit squished between a group of 5 and a group of two friends). The waitress was super on point - she was friendly, courteous, gave good explanations and recommendations and was genuine about our experience. We ordered: - gaucomole (I ate bits of the hard cover of an avocado in this, and it was pretty bland, I'll pass on this next time) - mac and cheese with poblano peppers - AMAZINGLY good and such a good taste - tortilla chips - real tortilla chips, bit on the thick side, but you know they're fresh when you see some leftover oil on the bottom of the tray - chile mango margarita - so tasty for those who love sweet and spicy drinks in one - chicken enchilladas - good but needed a bit more of taste since its just chicken and cheese - vegetarian tacos - great, mushrooms were sauteed well, though i wish the tortillas weren't the basic corn ones, something a bit more authentic - on the side you have green sauces that are hot - didn't try jalapeno but the other one whose name i forget was off the hook good (as you can see, i love spice) - no room for dessert though Pros: - Most of the food - Ambiance - Service - Price Cons - some of the food (just a bit though) Very good place to go. I'll be back. It's my favorite thus far in Cincy.
(4)Paul K.
I had wanted to find a mexican restaurant since I moved here. It has great location in downtown which I don't have chance to visit that often. So it opened my eyes about downton Cincinnati. Great food and service. My girlfriend and I shared baja style Mahi Mahi and carnitas tacos. Both were very good. I can't wait to visit here again and try other menus. Well, they are little pricey though. But I don't complaint about the price as long as the food is good.
(4)Jackie S.
Nada is not-ta be missed! The food is delicious but small portions for the price. I suppose you are paying for the convenience of being so close to fountain square and the CAC. The cool ambiance makes it a great place for lunch with co-workers, ladies night out, or a date. I like that there is a choice between indoor or outdoor seating and that the side orders (omg try the mashed plaintains) are always a large enough portion to share. There's a prude little grandmother in me that just has to get this out...Something funky is going on with the stairs to the second level (where the bathrooms are). Since they are minimalistic, you ladies might want to make sure you hold your skirts closely so that the boys don't see any of your unmentionables.
(4)Cory A.
Trendy, cool and relaxed. You would be right at home with a suit or jeans. Great inventive food with bold flavors. A repeat visit for me for sure.
(4)Jon M.
Great place! The cpork belly tacos, mac and chesse, and nadaritas are some of the best they have to offer. Perfect for a date night or casual get together.
(5)Carol J.
The restaurant and location are great, but the food itself at Nada is very mediocre. Nothing was offensively bad, but nothing stood out to me as excellent.
(3)Ryan B.
I have never had Mexican Fusion...till now. Let me preface by saying I love soft corn shell tacos with meat, hot sauce, cilantro and onions. You will not find this at Nada. What you will get is a great house Margarita with awesome chips Salsa/Guac and adventurous entrees. They keep the bones of a great Taco (as mentioned above) and take you on an adventure of new flavors! The table ordered 6 different kinds of Tacos. You must order the Pork Belly. I have had Pork Belly before, but not as good as Nada. Go for it! The shredded pork (forget the menu name) was also a flavor blast of fun. The decor is modern and trendy, seems like a place to "be seen". In my mind this is a place to eat some Guac, drink some Margaritas and enjoy some very good non-traditional Mexican fare!
(5)Shivang P.
It was really busy but we were able to be seated outside within minutes. The service was good considering the number of people at the restaurant. Food came out really quickly and was absolutely delicious. Unlike many other Mexican restaurants where chips and salsa are complimentary, they were $2 or $4, but definitely worth every penny. The tacos were phenomenal as well; probably the best tacos I've had at a Mexican restaurant. The tacos seemed slightly overpriced but this is a great place to go!
(4)Samantha R.
I like Nada, but I don't love Nada. I was the fence about whether it deserves three or four stars and here's why: PROS: Nada is located right in the middle of downtown near the CAC and the Aronoff. They offer quality drinks, margaritas, mojitos, and caipirinhas galore. I love the fresh fruit margaritas, especially the blood orange, and the passion fruit caipirinha. Nada truly shines in the appetizer department. I highly recommend the refreshing citrus-infused ceviche served in a martini glass and the sopes, which are thick corn meal patties topped with shredded short rib, queso fresco, and crema. Yum! Finally, if you like spicy food, order the "creeper," a yellow, creamy corn and chile salsa that will burn the tastebuds off of your tongue. It's not on the menu, so ask for it. Oh, and one more thing, request Pat as your server. He'll brighten your day. :) CONS: Their entrees are overpriced, bland, and altogether disappointing. Period. This is why I barely granted the fourth star and why I only order a series of appetizers when I dine at Nada. Seriously, stick to appetizers and drinks. Your belly and your wallet will thank you.
(4)Michael H.
Mahi Mahi Tacos were great, the ceviche is awesome, but the lamb stank on ice. Drinks were pricey but that's what you get at a nice place downtown! Atmosphere is really great - especially if you enjoy looking at attractive women. Outdoor seating is great when the weather is right.
(4)Andrew L.
I'm bumping Nada up to 4 Stars... Went back there on a Sunday morning again, and their brunch is just so good. I don't care that it costs a couple extra bucks. For dinner, I would still just as soon go to one of several delicious mexican joints around town and spend way less. For dinner, I'll give it 3 Stars. But for brunch, it is one of the best options in Cincy...5 Stars. Average it out to 4 stars, overall.
(4)Stacey L.
Nada is a special occasion place, and boy were we there for a special event! Shout out to Osam and Alyson who announced that they were pregnant with their first child! What a great night! I love the feel of this place. The atmosphere is trendy and cool, but doesn't feel pretentious. Its warm and comfortable. We hadn't planned on eating here and so my husband walked in wearing jeans and a sweatshirt, but no one turned up a nose at all. Food is fantastic! I do feel like most everything on the menu is $1-$2 overpriced. I would love to get to come here more often, but can't because of the expense. Everyone raves about the tacos, which we didn't try, but they did look fantastic. The four of us started with the guacamole, which is AMAZING. But, I feel the chips leave something to be desired. They are a little overly greasy for my taste. We had their seasonal soup, a butternut squash, which was perfect and not too sweet. The apple salad was only mediocre, with too much lettuce and not enough toppings. We shared the chicken and corn enchiladas for dinner... They were good but in the future, I would probably go with the tacos. We had the sangria poached pear for desert, which was filled with cream. YUM! Parking is definitely an issue and expect to walk a couple blocks or valet. The bathrooms are beautiful, but they are very much out of the way in the back of the upstairs. It would be a mad dash if you really had to go! I have been here for happy hour once before. They have good drink and food specials, but it is the shortest happy hour in town, ending a 6pm. I do really love this place and recommend everyone try it at least once, but just feel like everything is just a little more expensive than it should be.
(4)Kate A.
I used to just "like" Nada because of the amazing guacamole and chicken tacos. However, my feeling of "like" officially turned into "love" when I went with a large group for dinner for a friend's bachelorette party. We showed up to a table decorated in flowers, confetti, candy, and gift bags for each person at the table. We were completely surprised and I was impressed that they would go above and beyond to help us celebrate. To me, half the reason I will say I like a restaurant has to do with the ambiance of the place, and I like the trendy feel of Nada. When I eat there, I can pretend I'm trendy for a moment, so thank you for that, Nada. I make sure to order the guacamole every time I go there because of its deliciousness, and they have a preeeetty tasty white sangria. I've had the taquitos, which were decent, but the chicken tacos are my favorite thing on the menu and are usually my go-to choice. The place is a little pricey for my liking, but definitely worth it for a special occasion, or just when you're feeling like you deserve a little something awesome.
(4)Dominique B.
Nada may not be what you call 'authentic' Mexican food, but they are hitting the mark on 'upscale' Mexican. Their food is always tasty and the atmosphere is fun. It's a great place for a celebration or special occasion, I think that all of my 5 best friends have celebrated a birthday here. Could be a good date spot, but might be a little loud. It's a little on the pricey side, but worth it every once in a while. The wait is usually pretty long, so it's a good idea to make reservations. Make sure you try the Sangria and Mac & Cheese!
(4)Samir M.
Take home Carnitas night: Meal: Carnitas tacos, Chicken Enchiladas [Takeout] Takeout took only 20 minutes, the friendly Valet let me park it right on in front of the restaurant, and food was hot and ready. Great, fast downtown pickup. Nellie had the Carnitas, good as always, 3/5 stars for a solid effort. The 'mild' was extra mild and flat, lacking cilantro, and the texture a but mushy. Flavorful tortillas saved the experience, but for $4/taco, it's on the cusp of too expensive for takeout. Note that they did taste better the next day. I had the Chicken Enchiladas. 2/5 stars for saltiness and texture. Again, mushy meat and sweet pasta cornmeal mixture inside three enchiladas that were only about 1.25" in diameter. Good spice and heat level in the mole+red sauce, and very good cilantro, onion, cheese topping. I would not get them again, at $6.33/enchilada, they could have used rice, beans or even a guac salad to break up the salty profile of the filling and sauce. For the money, and the flavor, Taqueria Mercado up the street still wins for tacos and enchiladas, and table sauces. For large plate entrees (chicken, stone pots, etc) and ambiance, Nada still wins... but eat in, half of the bill is for the ambiance and patio dining, might as well get your money's worth.
(3)Hyatt G.
Refer to other reviews on the snooty hostess staff. The ceviche was bland and fruity. Too much orange juice, no spice at all. Where's the lime? Also, they used the cheapest mariscos (this time shrimp and squid). For $12 use some fish. The waiter explained this as a "peruvian" recipe. Bologna. The shady peruvian place out in Fairfield has better ceviche and for half the price (by weight). Our waiter, Chad was nice, knowledgable, and excited about the food. For future advice Chad, don't say you talked to your boss about comping the chips, salsa, and guac when they were accidentally delivered to our table to begin with. We weren't looking for free shit--you guys just screwed up. We thought they were delivered to our table because our long wait. When you go, go easy on the chips. They fill you up fast. The pork belly tacos rocked! Get them! Super moist meat with a nice crisp crunch served on top of guac and tart pickled onions. The pork belly chunks have nice layer of fat running thru the middle keeping it moist. Perfect! The lamb mole was really good too! Beer/Wine selection was odd. They have an expansive selection of cheapo "mexican" beers. They need to add more beverages that go well with mexican like slightly hoppy beers and pinot noir. Excellent selection of tequilas though.
(3)Sara W.
The service and atmosphere were great. The pork belly tacos were really really sublime---uncomparable. Someone there cares about flavors.
(4)Brandon D.
I had been to Nada several time before and always had great service. Last night my Fiance's family was in town to celebrate our engagement, and I made reservations. I screwed up and made the reservations for Sunday night instead of Saturday. Saturday night is always slammed at Nada, and my faux pas made me look like an a-hole. All three receptionist, and the manager worked to accomidate us, and got us a table. They were incredibly friendly and helpful. I only looked like a dumbass instead of an a-hole. Thanks Nada.
(5)Tim R.
All you need to know about this place is ... GO! Seriously. It was THAT good. The carnitas tacos (spicy) were presented nicely and tasted fabulous. The tortilla soup is very good and the salsa is good too. Tasty margaritas topped off the meal.
(5)Sekferin S.
Our fourth or fifth time there. Always seems to be some attitude about being seated. Service was good this time. Chips and salsa are the best I've had, love the fresh hot chips. The salsa is not as spicy as it has been in the past. Had veggie tacos and shrimp tacos. Well prepped and tasty. Stay away from the charred green beans, they were dripping in oil and not all that. Very good bar/nuvo mexican place.
(4)Julie W.
Lovely lunch here; very friendly staff, nice food, quick service. Loved my chicken & chile enchilada - just the right kick.
(4)betsy b.
I was recently visiting Cincy to see Phish as US Bank arena and checked out yelp before we went. I knew I wanted to try Nada after checking out the menu. It was awesome!!! The carnitas tacos were really good as were the barbacoa. We went there early (before 6 on a Saturday) and there was a very long wait....the hostess instead made a little corner for us in the bar area. It was a little cramped but worked out ok. The chips and salsa were really good, but I hate having to pay for them at mexican resturants. I'd def go back here if I find myself in Cincy again.
(4)Bartley R.
I went here for dinner with my significant other and a friend before a show. We hadn't been to Nada in a while, and it's always the safe choice (provided you can get in). We've been numerous times (including a particularly fun Cinco de Mayo a few years ago, during which we attempted to work our way through the entire margarita list), and the service and food has always been great. Unfortunately, at this particularly outing, neither were stellar nor did they live up to the experience I've come to expect from this restaurant. After being seated, we ordered some drinks. Two of us ordered the Nadarita (their signature margarita), and they were delivered in an adequate amount of time. I took a substantial sip from mine, and it was terrible. Not only was there no apparently alcohol, but the taste can only be described as "dish water plus butter." Our waiter apologized for the drink, and I exchanged it for a beer (unwilling to risk another buttery cocktail). We ordered some guacamole with chips/salsa, and that was fine (even if the chips were a tad greasy for my tastes). We didn't see our waiter again for quite some time. In the meantime, both tables to either side of us were seated, delivered drinks to, and had their orders taken. We weren't in a huge rush, so this didn't seem like a big deal. After seeing our waiter at one other small table for a while, he finally came to us and took our order after around 15-20 minutes of nothing. There wasn't an apology or "sorry about your wait" comment. We placed our order, and that seemed to go well. One of us ordered the grilled green beans with the meal. When the food was delivered (in an acceptable amount of time after we eventually ordered), the green beens were slightly below room temperature. They tasted great, but they were cold. The restaurant was not overly crowded, but we didn't see our waiter for a while. The rest of the food was great (as I would expect from Nada). When the waiter finally came back, we mentioned the cold green beans. He said he would exchange them, and we didn't see him again until we were finished eating (when he delivered the new green beans). There was no offer to remove the green beans ($4) from the check. Again, there was no mention of the wait required for the side of green beans. The waiter asked how we wanted our checks, and we replied accordingly. The service had been lackluster to that point, and it certainly wasn't what we expect when visiting Nada. When the waiter brought the checks back, he made the snide remark, "Don't worry, you have plenty of time." It's really this last comment, combined with the whole experience before, that caused me to want to write this review. While the waiter knew we were going to the show, he would have no idea if we were going somewhere else before the show. In fact, we were going to an art gallery reception before the show was to begin. His general attitude, poor service, and mediocre drink do not paint a good picture of Nada. We have always enjoyed the experience there, and I am hoping this is not a trend but perhaps one bad waiter. Regardless of the cause, we will certainly take a moment to pause and reconsider our patronage at Nada in the future.
(2)G. F.
Liked it a lot. Went in on a Saturday night. They were really busy due to the Bengals playoff game. The drinks were strong the food was awesome, the service was better. For a 6 person table our waiter, who also had all of his other tables full up, kept our drinks fresh and always checked in on us at the right time. We got our apps in like 10 minutes, the order was right even when we changed and substituted. Pork Belly tacos!!! I'll be back for sure.
(4)Andy C.
Finally got a chance to try Nada last night as a celebration for another year of work gone by. I have heard some amazing things about Nada (See other reviews re: Margaritas and fresh tortilla chips) so I was very anxious to get a first hand go at it. Overall, I can't say I was disappointed. We sat on the patio which is open air (obvious) and awesome in the recent 80 degree weather we have been having. Service was friendly though somewhat lacking in promptness (which I forgive given its consistent state of busy-ness). Chips? Yes please...and they do live up to the hype. Fried and crispy, they are fantastic. Salsa? Thumbs up. Guac? Fresh and tasty (...and I am not a guac person). Now I can't quite say the same for the margarita (Nadarita w/ a Grand Marnier kicker)....perhaps too much hype? I found that it was nothing special and because of that...slightly overpriced. But don't get me wrong, it was still a good 'rita but my socks were in no way rocked off. Next was fish tacos. Very good, fresh and tasty. I do recommend. Overall, I had a pleasant experience at my first visit to Nada. Come for the ambiance, stay for the chips and other accoutrements, expect to pay a little more than you would like...but that's part of the experience, right?
(4)Yan K.
I was quite skeptical going in, but the food is just remarkably good. I'm not too fond of the atmosphere--trying a bit too hard to be hip, slick, and youthful. But the staff were enthusiastic, friendly, and helpful, and the food really is fantastic.
(5)Ludwig T.
I recently went to Nada with a group of friends. We had reservations, arrived early, and had no trouble being seated. The server came by and took our drink and food orders, and everything came out in a timely manner. I had chicken tacos and a side of frijoles. The food was good, although the drinks were not very well mixed. The difficulties came after we were given our food. Nobody came by to refill our drinks or check on us, and when another server did appear, he started taking plates away so quickly we weren't able to even finish our chips. In addition, the sound system was so loud it was impossible to even hear what the servers were saying, let alone other people in our group. I'm not sure what kind of a vibe they were trying to go for, but if I want to listen to obnoxious repetitive music I would go to a club. When you have to yell at someone two seats away it does not make for a pleasant evening. I got the impression they were trying to push us out to make room for more people but again, after the plates were taken we were left alone with no food, no drinks, and no checks. Eventually our original server came back and we were able to get the checks. I was more than a little irritated that they charged a 20% gratuity for service that consisted of bringing us our food and then disappearing the rest of the night. There was a fire going just outside the door, which would have been a nice touch if it wasn't putting out so much smoke nobody wanted to stand anywhere near it. In conclusion, the food is good (not outstanding), the service is mediocre, and the ambiance leaves much to be desired.
(2)Dana K.
I ordered the barbacoa tacos and they were soooo good i've been craving them since!
(5)Levi W.
I have only been here for lunch but it is a great spot. Make sure to call ahead because this place gets packed - especially if you want to sit outside. Very trendy and the food was great. Make sure to grab some guac, chips & salsa to start off the meal and most of the taco selections are pretty good. Enjoy a table outside in the summertime for a good meal and some people watching.
(4)Angela B.
The quality of my experiences at Nada have been inconsistent. The first time I went was early last spring and the mahi tacos were awesome, I could have ordered seconds. During my most recent trip to Nada, the mahi tacos were soggy and not what I remembered. The guacamole, chips, and salsa were just as good and still overpriced. The passion-fruit caipirinha is great but again overpriced. Nada sits at a great location so it is convenient to grab a bite and or drink before the opera, an arnoff show, or a trip to the art museum. Definitely make a reservation and avoid Nada Friday and Saturdays between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. they are always slammed.
(4)john m.
Happy hour Mexican mac-n-cheese and sangria -- a Cincinnati treasure -- 'Nuff said.
(5)Jessica X.
Thank you nada for getting Cincinnatians to think outside the box when it comes to new mexican cuisine. The red sangria is excellente, perfect salsa and chips, and every entree I've had was surprising, yet delicious. The decor is fun and hip, just visit their website (also very fun and hip). It can be very difficult to get seating on friday and saturday nights, especially in the summer when something is going on downtown. Make reservations!
(5)James K.
I travel to Cincinnati for business quite often and just recently I came across Nada. Nada is a fairly large multi-level Mexican restaurant, with a fun and energetic atmosphere. You'll find employees from Procter and Gamble gathering for after work drinks and other local Cincinnatians having a good time. Since there are so many hotels nearby, there are many business travelers looking for something outside of your typical room service (I fall in this category). The menu was quite extensive and featured both your usual Mexican favorites, as well as Nada's take on the more complex authentic dishes. I ordered the cazuela sampler featuring pork, chicken and lamb. My favorite was the lamb, but they were all quite good. My party also ordered guacamole and a cheese fondue appetizer, but both were just OK. You're probably better off just ordering some chips and salsa and saving some money. So if you're in Cincinnati and you're craving Mexican food, I recommend you try Nada.
(3)David B.
I was Blown Away. While it's difficult to screw up a taco, it's nearly egregious to pay more than my usual 79, 89, and/or 99 cents for one, but Nada delivers a remunerative experience. I like pork belly and I like tacos so they came out with a pork belly taco...Genius! The service was enteraining fun and professional. Theambience and food were a great blend that appealed to the better part of my lascivious and culinary tendancies.
(4)Cam B.
Wow. We were welcomed warmly with kids on a Sunday evening. Server was really friendly, made great recommendations and helped kids find something that worked for them. Adults got loosened up with incredible Margaritas Supremos and had Lamb Mole and Carnitas Tacos. Fabulous all around. Location is perfect too, right across the street from the really cool Contemporary Art Museum.
(4)Serena S.
I liked this place better when it was Bella. I tried Nada for dessert and I had a Flan it was squishy and I didn't like it. Nada does seem like a fun place to drink with friends though if that is what your looking for.
(3)Chris B.
First, be sure to get the guacamole, which is so fresh and the crispy, tangy chips are soo good! The spicy salsa is nice as well. I got a mushroom taco that was so good, because I'm a vegetarian. I was very happy and it was the perfect lunch size. The beans on the side were a bit much though. Make sure you watch out for the spicy dishes too, because they don't kid you, they're SPICY, but I love that. Even the bathrooms were surprising. The men's room was darkly lit with tvs on the wall. I really liked the whole modern woody interior. It is a great spot to stop for lunch downtown, especially if you want to enjoy the weather on the patio. Excellent, totally!
(5)Kiki J.
We went for my boyfriend's birthday and got the cazuela sampler with some sangrias. It was a really fun experience! Fun atmosphere too - it doesn't look like any other restaurant in the 'nati. We've been meaning to go back... anyone want to join us?
(4)Rise G.
The food is good, the sangria is good, the service is good. It is always so crowded so we had to sit at the bar for our dinner, but it worked out great. The bartender was very friendly and accomodating. I love Boca so I knew this place would not disappoint.
(4)N S.
We were in town visiting and stopped in for lunch. Very casual but food was excellent. Great outdoor seating and a great value.
(5)M H.
Great Mahi Mahi Tacos on the midday menu. Very reasonable prices. Portion was a bit on the small side. I ordered the chips & salsa; I would go with the guacamole appetizer next time.
(4)Scott C.
I would give Nada 4.5 Stars if I could! You may have to wait 45 minutes for a table on a Monday evening if you don't make reservations, but the payoff is worth it. Sure, everything might be considered a little overpriced, but aside from the seemingly tasteless salsa (which may be a result of the very taste-full guacamole we ate first), there was not a single thing we consumed that we didn't like. Mojitos. Mango-Chile Margaritas. Fresh Tortilla Chips. Guacamole. Mexican Mac & Cheese (a bit salty, but very cheesy and full of jalapeños for the perfect balance). Mashed Plantains (this was the highlight of the meal! For those of you who know me, I will be trying to recreate this dish in my kitchen!). The ambiance is fun and loud. There is seating inside (on two stories) and outside. And even on a Monday night, it's packed (which is a good sign for a downtown restaurant). We never ordered meals, because the Chips & Guacamole, Mac & Cheese, and Mashed Plantains were plenty. I look forward to eating there again and trying something different!
(4)Andria A.
The food is great and unique! The guacamole is amazing and the veggie tacos are sooo good! The price is a little high but there is a good amount of food that is worth the price! They also have a good beer selection.....which includes Bohemia, my fav beer to drink with mexican.
(4)krissy r.
we went here for my friend's birthday. they handled our party of 25 extremely well and the servers were friendly and down to earth. cocktails first, questions later: yummy, fresh and tangy capirinhas. i had the passion fruit and it was delicious. i sipped a friend's regular, and found it equally delectable. for starters: the salsa was so-so. i think cactus pear's endeavor has a much more notable flavor. however, the gucamole was amazing. chunky and a great texture, not mushy like some restaurant gucs tend to be. who can resist: my husband and i shared the sliders (we're big white castle fans, drunk or not), chicken tacos, and taquitos. all were excellent. i also opted for the mashed plantains, which i think is one of my new favorite comfort foods. the only thing i didn't like about them was the scallions on top, but those were easy to eat around. as a general rule, i do not care much for mexican. but nada could change my mind.
(4)Jason B.
Nada is a downtown dining experience that can't be missed if given the opportunity. Very rarely, if ever, can you dine at such a trendy, upscale, 'it' restaurant for such a reasonable price. Nada really shines for several occasions, the number one being a great place to go with a group before a night out. The fun atmosphere, variety of tapas style entrees (the sliders CAN NOT be missed), and great drinks make for a great way to start your night without leaving too stuffed or too broke. The service has always been spot on in my many experiences and the outdoor dining area is simply incredible on a warm summer evening. The ambiance on the patio almost feels of Miami or some exotic destination with the lights, trees, and furniture. Nada is also a good place to have a drink and small meal or chips and guacamole (the best I have had yet) at the bar by yourself. The couple larger entree plates I have had were very good too, but I don't consider this a fine dining experience as much as a fun, trendy place to be seen with fantastic food and service. If you plan to visit on a weekend or Aronoff show evening, I recommend making reservations WELL in advance or plan to wait a minimum of an hour, although the bar is not a bad place to hang out during. A must visit dining experience.
(5)Travis L.
Queso is one of the best dips in the city. Easily beats Bakersfield. The main entrees are average at best. I ordered the chicken tacos, and the black bean purée made them. Definitely a place to gather with a group of people and sip on their delicious margaritas.
(4)Jessica G.
Excellent tacos and fun ambiance. Guac was the best I've had since moving to Ohio. Only 4 stars because the tacos were a bit salty for me, but they still had great flavor. Make reservations!
(4)Megan A.
I'll give Nada a solid 4.5 stars. We came here for a mid Saturday afternoon drink and meal and was pleasantly surprised. At around 4pm the place was incredibly full and about a 30 minute wait for a table. They offered us seating at the bar (as it became available) or outdoor seating if we didn't want to wait. They do have two bars; one is as soon as you walk in and then there is an additional bar upstairs. We chose to sit outside as it wasn't too hot if we sat in the shade. The hostess was very helpful and even cleaned off one of the tables so we could be under one of the umbrellas. This place is very trendy and the decor is artsy. I loved how they had the lanterns hanging from tree branches outside and the colorful umbrellas. Now to the food. We both ordered some drinks. I had a local IPA (Cincy, you make some very good local brews) and my friend ordered one of the speciality cocktails (I don't recall what it was), but he enjoyed it. We both split the guacomole and then ordered some tacos. He went with the vegetarian option and I had the salmon with the baja fish fillings. I like fish tacos as long as they aren't fried and unfortunately the waitress explained that Hake does not grill well. No problem though, she recommended the salmon to substitute for it and it was spot on! The service and food here are wonderful. I do think the prices for the tacos are a little steep; however, I understand with the trendiness of this place that it could be expected.
(5)Bridget S.
I seem to be in the minority by not being impressed with this place. I have given it several chances and each time I am underwhelmed. The food is expensive and the portions are small.
(3)Sidra M.
I love nada! Their salsas are fantastic. Their cazuela dish is one of my favorites- I recommend getting the egg on top. The margaritas are good and I love the atmosphere here. I have always enjoyed very good service.
(4)Susan W.
The macaroni and cheese rocks!!
(4)Laura A.
Went for lunch on a Friday. It was pretty crowded but no wait. The portions were the a good size for lunch and the prices were decent. I had the chicken and corn enchiladas. They were really good I got them without the Diablo sauce as I do not eat spicy food. The patio looked nice but we chose to eat inside due to the heat.
(4)Robert L.
Nada is a good place for Mexican. It is a little higher end than some other places which means the food is more expensive but it is delicious. While not my first choice for Mexican food in downtown, it is in a convenient location if you want to combine dinner with a show at the Aronoff Center. The times I've been here, the restaurant was a bit noisy making conversation a challenge. I've never been to the happy hour here, so perhaps I will go for that, which may change my overall opinion of Nada.
(3)Andrea L.
Rediculous!!!!! The French toast is to die for!!! The guacamole is the best I've ever had. Impeccable service. I cannot wait to go back!! Amazing!!! Delicious!!!
(5)Rian F.
Really great place. Pork belly tacos were phenomenal. Was even able to get them to make flour tortilla chips for me. Will be back for sure!
(4)Brandi C.
Amazing Mexican food. Server was amazing and suggested wonderful craft beer options. I had the chicken tacos, hubby had Barbacoa tacos. Yum! Must get chips and guac, handmade each day!!!! My second visit here did not disappoint. Great value lunch and brunch menu!!
(5)Coleen P.
Nada made it on my very short list of favorite restaurants in Cincinnati! I am not a fan of Mexican food, but this place is just amazing! My boyfriend had to practically convince me for 2 weeks to come to this place with him. Just note that it is pretty difficult to get a reservation here on a weekend, so plan ahead! The restaurant is dimly lit, not too fancy but definitely up-scale. Great place for a first date I'd say. The waiter was very friendly and explained to us his favorites on the menu. We ended up ordering the chips and salsa ($2) for our appetizer and the chicken & corn enchilladas ($19) and tinga poblana cazuela ($21) for our main entrees. Man oh man was everything so delicious. The food was rich in flavor with just the right amount of heat. Every bite was so savory and satisfying. I'd definitely recommend these two dishes. It is a little pricey but totally worth it. Best Mexican restaurant in Cincinnati! Will be coming back to try different dishes!
(5)Brian W.
My take on Nada is... I just don't get it. I've been here a few times now and it's not bad but it's nothing special either. I'm not really sure of the angle they are going for. I know so many people who love it (my better half included) but maybe it's just lost on me. I just don't get highly overpriced Mexican food. Sure the ambiance is nice and the wait staff is always friendly but I'm just not impressed with the food enough to justify the cost. There are other places downtown that are just as nice with better food in this price range. For Mexican restaurants, there are many with way better food for less than 1/2 the cost of Nada. For fantastic "gourmet" Mexican food in a very cool atmosphere, I'll take Bakersfield over Nada any day. Better food, great margaritas, and slightly cheaper than Nada. For just great Mexican food for WAY cheaper there is Cazadores, El Pueblo, El Picante, Rincon, and many others around the city. The last time I visited Nada, my wife had the chicken & corn enchiladas (which I sampled) and I had the pork green chile enchiladas. Neither were bad but were not overly great either. Average food for almost $20/plate. And somehow the Nada-Rita gets rave reviews but the one I got was barely drinkable and I love authentic margaritas. Maybe I just got a bad one this time, it was just overly sour. I will say that the Guacamole and chips were great but really... $7 for quac and chips? The short-rib sopes were very good too and actually worth the price. Nothing overly impressed us on the dessert menu so we went elsewhere to finish our evening. I can think of many better places to spend $80 for a couple to have appetizers, entrees, and a couple drinks. Just my opinion though... your mileage may vary.
(2)Real D.
The only thing that makes this place special is the decor. Wait is ridiculous and the staff is kind of snooty about it. Real attitude. Well, KMA! Mexican food is not any better than anybody else's in town...actually, it's worse. I ordered the pork chop and it was cooked into a plank. I mean, it was hard, and therefore, tasteless except for the seasoning caked on the top. It was inedible. The rest of our party didn't find their food that much better. Go for a drink because the two story windows and view are extraordinary, but eat somewhere else.
(2)Kellan C.
Nada was delicious in some aspects, not in others. Let's start with the chips and salsa. I think everyone will agree they were waaayyyy to salty. Almost to hard to eat, honestly. Maybe it was our batch but the chips were way to salty and it was a shame because the salsa was delicious. The only drink I tasted was my girlfriend's pomegranate Margarita. While it was flavorful, it was very sour and I just wasn't feeling it. I ordered the green chili chicken enchiladas. They were decent, but far to much cilantro. And that's a lot coming from me because I love cilantro. The spice kick was good but the cilantro over powered it. The people I went with got the tacos and they were Money. Very good. I will be getting them next time. Tortilla soup was also good. The place is very cool though. Beautiful place to go and sit outside. I really enjoyed that aspect. I will be back and I will get something different and hopefully it will change my mind.
(3)Hans G.
Wanna try something different? This high end Mexican restaurant is exactly that. The salsa wasn't anything to write home about, but everything else had a great taste. The restaurant has an elegant setting and excellent service.
(3)Tom K.
Now, I'm from the southwest and I shy away from "places to be seen." I was walking down the street and my fiancee and we were looking for Nada, it was our first weekend in the city. As we walk down the street, I look in a restaurant window and think "Geez, even in Cincinnati there's a place for buff dudes in tight button-downs to hit on glitzed-up gals." Little did I know that it was where we would be having dinner! We knew it was "trendy" but I didn't know that meant it was a borderline club. That was my first impression. By the end of the meal, I had come to think of the place as "alright." The salsa had no spice or heat to it, I ordered a side of jalapenos for my tacos that came without seeds, just shavings. This is shameful to me, but I realize I'm a bit biased and I may enjoy a bit more spice than other people. The taco's themselves were good and filling. The food was well presented and well prepared. It was a nice place. Overall I was a little disappointed with the food, and the atmosphere was not for me, but I can't deny that they made a good drinks. You won't be disappointed, but it's not going to thrill you.
(3)Eric L.
3.5 Love the ambiance, but the food isn't all that great. Inconsistent across the menu, with some high notes but also some dishes that could use improvement. People will rate this very highly because its "sexy". It is upscale for Cincinnati, and has pretty waitresses, nice design elements and lighting, and that very elegant loungy vibe. The Food: Guacamole: excellent House margarita: take it or leave it (decent for a house magarita, but nothing to write home about) Nada Caesar salad -- Just a caesar salad. I love caesar salad. Very average, would order it again because I'm a sucker for caesar, but hardly worth recomending. Crispy Pork Belly Taco -- GREAT idea, basically 1/2 inch thick bacon cuts nice and smoky, crisp on the outside; downside -- its heavy and a little too salty to eat. Needs some acid to cut the fact and salt, maybe a cabbage slaw dressed with some acid. High quality execution on the bacon chunks (pretty sure its deep fried or torched). Great execution, think more about balance in the flavor elements of the dish, please. Pork green chile cazuela -- Just slow roasted pork. Decently cooked, but again, more effort on dish design -- A pot of pork in broth gets boring quickly. More textural elements and something lighter between pork bites would be good. Very friendly waitstaff, great customer service (doesn't factor into rating)
(3)Jack R.
Just stopped in here for a quick drink one night. Went in got a good drink at not a bad price with good service. Then set out side on the patio to drink it. It was packed so I take it the food is probably good. So we will have try dinner here sometime.
(4)Rebecca C.
Great food. Somewhat over priced but great food and outstanding service. Great place for a date night. Make sure you make a reservation. You will not be disappointed!
(5)Christopher W.
Let's start off by saying that nothing about Nada is Mexican cuisine. It is very Americanized Southwestern/Mexican food. That being said, it is delicious! I have been multiple times and have a couple of favorites. Do yourself a favor and start your dinner off with a margarita. Theirs is the second best in Cincinnati, IMO. Then, put in an order for chips and guacamole. The chips are the best the city has to offered. Double fried and delicious. The tortilla soup is amazing. You also cannot go wrong with any of the salads. I have yet to order anything off of the "iron pot" menu due to the pricing. I will give one of these a try in the future. The fish tacos are on point. Rivals with some of the best I have had in San Diego. My absolute favor item is the pork belly tacos with a side of mashed plantains. I don't know what it is about Cincinnati, but everywhere I have had pork belly it has been very affordable. I guess the city hasn't gotten the notice yet that they can charge more for pork belly than regular pork items. The happy hour menu is also fantastic. The wait staff is great and the overall ambiance is awesome. My only complaint is that the restaurant can feel a bit "stuffy" and pretentious. Must be all of those Cincinnati socialites in after work. All in all, Nada is one of my favorites. Please, do check it out for yourself. Well worth a night out!
(4)AJ M.
Love grabbing a meal here before a show, and a preverbal favorite downtown.
(4)Mike C.
After hearing about people in Cincinnati raving about Nada, I finally went for dinner a couple weeks ago. I've been there a couple times for happy hour too, so this will be a combination review of both. I honestly think that when you go to Nada, you're paying for the ambience. It's a very hip place with a very high energy atmosphere, especially at the times when they're busy. The restaurant has a very chic feel, and that's probably why you see a lot of local or out of town celebrities here. Their margaritas are tasty. During happy hour, they have some pretty decent drink specials too. I've had quite a few of the appetizers during happy hour. The sopes is probably the best one on the happy hour menu. The queso was good, but just had too much oil / grease. Their guacamole is also decent, but nothing to write home about. I've been to many other Mexican / Latin-themed restaurants that had things like smoked trout and bacon or blue crab and corn guacamole that was better. Their freshly made chips are really good though. The mexican mac and cheese however, is probably something that you should definitely get. It was a dish that I was very cheesy and spice, which I was actually impressed with. LIke I said, I've only been there once for dinner. The service was excellent, although it did take a while for my water to be refilled (because I was downing it fast because of the spicy mexican mac and cheese). I had the pork belly taco, which was excellent. There was a mixture of crispiness and some fattiness that was paired well with the salsa, guacamole, pickled vegetables, and cilantro. The price here is probably the thing that will prevent me from making this an every day spot. $16 for those three tacos I thought was a little high. I ended up getting those and the mac and cheese together, which made it $24 total. I think the food is high quality, but I really don't think it was really that much better than many other high quality Mexican places I've been to. I think you're pretty much paying for the ambience. Overall, I think Nada is a pretty good restaurant. I just don't think it's worth all the hype.
(4)Paige M.
Sometimes I like to pretend that this restaurant is named after the character in the Sandman series. Confused? Just ignore my geekish ramblings and read on about the food. Nada is a hip joint in central Downtown serving up small plates of all varieties. I was told this was Mexican food, but this is no heaping plate of gooey cheese and beans. This is a savory work of art. If you desire the former, look elsewhere. I ordered the Barbacoa: three soft tortilla shells stuffed with beef short rib, cilantro, and pickled red onions served gringo style. The meat was very tender; it was moist and fell apart in my mouth. Each bite contained a variety of flavors. Although the portions looked small, especially for the price, I was actually full by the end of the meal. In addition to the Barbacoa, I ordered the corn tamal, which is a moist cornbread wrapped and grilled in a corn husk. Everyone at my table ordered one, so I knew it was destined for greatness. Corn tamal, you did not disappoint! It was one of the tastiest, yet simplest sides I've had. My meal, paired with a refreshing Mojito, made for a wonderful evening out on the patio in the mild summer breeze. Price per person: $20-$25
(4)Valerie G.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place! The food is awesome. Everything that I have tried from the menu has been outstanding and mouthwatering. Go try it. Enough said.
(5)Tara N.
Nada is delicious, though overpriced. The atmosphere makes me feel like I'm on vacation in a large city, though it's often loud and full of crazy hipsters. Your best bet is to go on a weekday night or for brunch, which might even be more delicious than dinner. You'll probably definitely run into someone you know, so if you aren't looking to do that, go somewhere else. Definitely order the mac & cheese, which will rock your world. The tacos are also a great choice. The chips are homemade, salsa is good, and the guac is amazing. If you're not concerned about the price, the food is definitely awesome.
(4)Shawna K.
With 140 reviews for Nada, what more is there to add? As you an read, nothing there is bad. Their luscious patio draws you in with potted plants galore the people watching alone will never be a bore The inside is always packed to the gills Everyone must want to eat one of their meals And once you taste your first bite, it's easy to see why The fresh guac and chips are so amazing, you might cry And the iron pot brimming with spicy chilies and tender pork is so delicious, it's hard to remember manners and use your fork And of course service has always been top notch Never having you wait or look at your watch Just remember your wallet, because this food isn't cheap For Mexican fare, it seems a little steep But for this stellar location right downtown I'll hand over my cash, with not even a frown.
(4)Bruce C.
I have to say this was a great place to dine at. The atmosphere was not what I was expecting, it was better than I ever thought. My meal was simply amazing, having the chicken and corn tortilla, with charred green beans. And before that I had some guacamole with salsa, I love guacamole and their salsa was really good, but it did have a tiny bit of a kick to it. However I could not find it in myself to stop eating it.
(5)Ben C.
This is a world-class restaurant. Had dinner - beautifully designed and decorated, beautiful crowd as well. Outstanding service - our waiter was friendly without being cloying and his knowledge of ingredients and menu was top notch - I think some of the problems other people have noted is (frankly) because, although Cincinnati is certainly on the upswing, it doesn't have many (any other?) restaurants of this caliber. The place was packed on a Thursday and just as packed when we left. The food was outstanding - from the chips to the deserts. I enjoyed the ceviche - it had a different, more sweet-citrusy taste than most ceviches I've eaten, but I liked it quite a bit. Had the carnitas tacos (ala diabla) which was not spicy to my taste, but the flavors really sang - I did not ask for extra chillies or hot sauce because it tasted so good. The corn tortillas were very fresh and moist. Tried a pork belly taco as well - wow, that was very good too. Our table shared a platter of desserts. Although I was stuffed, I tried a bites of almost everything - delicious. The chef obviously has a palate that tends away from Tex-Mex heat - and towards subtly, but well seasoned food. The food was not bland - and was not searingly hot. Although I really like hot food, I appreciated Nada's cuisine for the excellence in execution and sophistication in flavors. Downstairs you can see the open kitchen (which I always appreciate). Busy people doing a great job.
(5)Chad E.
Fantastic outdoor dining - Cincinnati's best! Blake is a great server and make sure you get reservations early!
(5)Mariana P.
I can now officially call myself a Cincinnatan (Cincinnatite?) because I finally took the plunge and accepted a ridiculously late dinner reservation to eat at Nada. It was totally worth it. The indoor hostess and our waiter were both fantastic. I highly recommend the chicken and corn enchiladas..... yum yum. Like other reviews have said, this is not authentic Mexican food, but that doesn't stop it from being extremely tasty. Two things I dislike about Nada: 1- You need to get reservations WELL in advance, or else you end up, as we did, with 9:30. Just a heads up to anyone who wants to eat here. 2- The hostess outside definitely has an attitude. As it was our first time there, we attempted to check in with her. She then promptly sent us inside, and her whole attitude was "Oh no, you don't check in here, you need to go check in and eat inside with the rest of the riff raff." Overall, it was a great experience. I had a lot of fun, and the food was great.
(5)Arika S.
I don't know if I would go back for the food, but the location and atmosphere were great! Things we tried: Margarita - not the best margarita Mango - Chile Margarita - a little to spicy for my taste Guacamole - Tastes just like your typical guacamole, but I will say that the homemade chips were amazing Mexican Mac and Cheese - This was probably the best thing we had and it was very unique... Definitely recommend this! Ceviche - Surprisingly very good! Pear dessert - DELICIOUS ...definitely recommend The atmosphere and service were great! The portions were small and quite pricey.
(3)Marc P.
Cool spot!
(4)kelly k.
I've been to Nada several times, and I'm one of the few people who doesn't think it's absolutely wonderful. It may be because haute Mexican is not one of my favorite cuisines. This place gets a lot of hype, and some of it is well deserved. So if you've never been to Nada, you should try it to see for yourself. I'll start with the Positives: Very good food, excellent quality, nice presentation, trendy/hip atmosphere, great downtown location. Best guacamole around. Downside: Portions are rather small for the price. Drinks are overpriced. In sum, the reasons I only give it 3 stars are because I don't love Mexican, and it's a bit pricey. I'd go back with a group on a special occasion. And I'd order the guacamole.
(3)Judy C.
The guacamole seemed fresher than when I make it myself! So awesome! Service was a little slow on Saturday night, but we were in no hurry, so it was fun. Great atmosphere... made a good impression on my friends visiting from out of town!
(5)Maria G.
Is it pricey? Yep. Is it crowded? Yep. Is it worth the hype? ABSOLUTELY. Nada is one of my favorite fancy pants dining destination. It's not where I'd go for any old celebration, but when fancy pants are a requirements (say, a birthday or anniversary) this is the place to go. Don't get me wrong-you don't have to wear a suit or dress to feel comfortable here. Dark jeans and a nicer shirt will do just fine. The dress here ranges from jeans to cocktail dresses, and everything in between. The drinks are pretty good, if a bit pricey. The house margarita is $7, and it's okay. I prefer the cheaper ones at Taqueria myself. I adore the sangria though-red, white, or sparkling and full of fruit. Mmm, so refreshing on a hot summer day. The food. My oh my the food. Nada is the first place I tried pork belly. My god do I love pork belly. The pork belly tacos are served with peppers and onions, and are crispy and juicy and so wrong for you to eat. Which means they are tasty business. Heart-stoppingly tasty business. The barbacoa tacos are also very good, and are my go-to if I'm pretending to be kind of maybe healthy. I had dessert there for the first time last night, a flourless chocolate thing, and it was decadent and delicious. I'm glad I split it with someone, as it was pretty rich. OH! The guacamole and chips, almost forgot! Great appetizer. I think it's a little more expensive than it needs to be, but their house made guacamole is worth the extra bucks. It's a great way to start your meal. My only complaints? The staff can seem a bit too cool for school. Every once in awhile you get someone who seems...aloof. I don't need hugs and hand holding, but it's nice to not feel like we might be interrupting your evening. Also, it can be warm on the first floor, especially near the kitchen. While it's fun to see food being made, it's less fun when you realize you're sweating. I love Nada, and can't wait to try their brunch. With how good their lunch/dinner menu is, I'm sure it will be amazing. This is definitely a place in town to check out if you haven't been.
(4)Jeff P.
The server we had provided poor service. He wouldn't even look at us which made getting his attention more difficult. Food is fair, definite upscale prices though. The ambiance is nice, great date place for cocktails before the theater but not good for a first date diner, the food and service will only paint a negative picture to the date. Very limited brunch menu. If you are on a low carb diet, you'll be hungry.
(2)Josh M.
Good choice when in Cin. Fun night time atmosphere.
(3)Brieanne S.
I like to think of myself as a "foodie." I love food, but I don't love making it myself. This being said, I don't have a very extensive "food" vocabulary. So, I find it very intimidating when I have a waiter spouts off a 10 minute speech about certain entrees. Whilst I appreciate your entusiam about your job-SLOW DOWN! The food we had was great-not wonderful, just great. We had a sample of 4 different kinds of tacos (I blame my indecisiveness for this). Each one was good in its own way. None of them even remotely resembled the others. The drinks we had were also very well prepared. Overall we had a great experience here. We made reservations ahead of time and also went on a Sunday afternoon when the Bengals were playing away, so downtown was less than exciting. Would I wait 2 hours for a table, probably not. It was a good meal and we left full but it was a little on the pricey side and as far as I know, they don't offer coupons.
(4)Sarah F.
I've eaten both lunch and dinner at Nada and found both to be enjoyable experiences. Trying to describe the culinary genre at Nada is somewhat complicated because "upscale, authentic Mexican" sounds a bit pretentious, but that's the best I've come up with so far, so there you go. If you want to start with the usual chips & salsa, it'll be $2 but the salsa is really good. The chips are definitely not Tostitos--more like thick, deep fried tortilla triangles; a bit greasy, but good. I've gotten the soft tacos both times--once chicken and once mahi-mahi. IIt's a simple, but very tasty dish (also deceptively filling). Note for the vegetarians/pescatarians out there: the bean side dish that comes with the tacos is not vegetarian unless you order the vegetarian tacos or specifically request it! The usual one (frijoles charros) has bacon in it, but the vegetarian option is black beans over rice, which is quite tasty. Service tends to be above average, but not flawless. On my last visit, although the server was generally attentive, he abandoned us for a long time immediately after our order was delivered and forgot to bring my friend her requested sweetener. Aside from that slight glitch, everything else was fine. Ambiance is great both inside and the patio in warm weather. Reservations used to be essential, but after being open for a while, you could probably get a table without too much trouble as long as it's not a peak night/time.
(4)Célèste B.
I've been twice, both times at someone else's request. I love the atmosphere and the service is great, but I honestly am no totally wowed by the food. It's the kind of place where the focus seems to be more on being trendy than producing a great flavor experience. That's fine and all, I enjoyed going, and I wouldn't turn it down if someone suggested it (especially if they were paying), but I wouldn't make Nada my first choice. That said, the ceviche is honestly amazing. Everything I've had there is fine, though underwhelming, but the ceviche has this squid in it that is to die for.
(3)Doug W.
This is one of the few restaurants in Cincinnati that makes me damn proud to say, "that's right, this is my hometown." Nada is the epitome of class, style, and the most amazing "Mexican" food. Here is why this place is so awesome and my favorite place in all of Cincinnati. 1. Service: from the hostesses to the waiters to even the GM who recognizes me, this place seeks to provide best-in-class service as soon as you even get near the door. They recognize their repeat customers and take care of them which has led to my extreme loyalty. Be sure to make a reservation though no matter what day or time. Lately, you can't get a table at lunch for a party of 2+ without a reservation. It's that good! 2. Cocktails: the margaritas and sangria are good but the hidden jewel is the caipirinha, the native drink of Brazil made with cachaca (pronounced ka-shassa) or sugar cane rum, sugar, and lime. Just ask your waiter to explain it or anything else on the menu. Their intimate knowledge of the entire menu will blow you away. 3. The Tacos! All of them are top notch. My favorites are the carnitas and the baja style fish tacos. I prefer the fried but they also serve a grilled version which are legit. Having lived in San Diego for a number of year, these are the best fish tacos outside of SoCal that I have found. Lunch portion is 2 + a side salad and dinner portion is 3 tacos. 4. The Salads and Appetizers: from the mac-n-cheese to the sliders to the ensalada mixto, these are the best in town. 5. Corn and Chicken Enchiladas: a very filling dish a 3 enchiladas that will leave your tummy feeling warm and very full. This is my favorite dish in the wintertime before heading into a show at the Aranoff. 6. Finally, the location! We eat here before EVERY show at the Aranoff and they are great at seating us quickly and serving us at the pace we request. One time, it was going to be a faster dinner than normal so I jokingly placed my order when making the reservation to prove that I was a regular and the drinks were waiting at the table for us when we sat down. Yes, they are that good. Whether you are coming for lunch, dinner, drinks with friends, or a fun night out, sit back and prepare to have a great experience with amazing food and top notch service. And have a caipirinha for me.
(5)Andrew D.
The poblano mac 'n cheese gets seemingly better every single time I have it. I always feel under-attractive when I eat here, though. I like being surrounded by purdy women, just not while eating pork belly tacos. For that they shall receive one less star(it is, after all, their fault for creating a popular Downtown restaurant that attracts these kind of women).
(4)Jenny H.
Their tacos are amazing- I got their fish as well as pork belly, their pork belly was like nothing I've ever had- so soft and crispy (you would think it would be hard and tough), eating 1 or 2 is enough, but glad they give you 3!! Guacamole is good, not the best. Their mac and cheese appetizer was pretty good too, with good Mexican cheese (could have been a little more al dente). The ambience was excellent, great people and scene, and plating was great. You should definitely eat here if you live here or are in Cincinnati!
(4)Jocelyn V.
Went to Nada for my college roommate's bachelorette dinner on Saturday night. We started out with guacamole and salsa, which were both delicious. The guac was fresh and the flavors were great. The homemade chips were crispy and not too greasy. For dinner I ordered the barbacoa tacos and charred green beans. The tacos were excellent, although I kind of wished there was cheese on them because I love cheese. The tacos were full of meat, though and the pickled onions were really good. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the charred green beans were quite spicy. They were cooked perfectly, crispy and not all wilty. I had the Nadarita margarita, which was delicious. We had a reservation and were put in an upstairs room that had curtains we could close (and did to have a mini dance party). The atmosphere was great and our server was fantastic. Excellent food at a totally reasonable price point? I'll definitely go back next time I'm in Cincy.
(4)Theresa C.
Must try in Cincinnati, OH! Love the pork belly tacos! So I cam here twice - once for happy hour and once to get actual dinner. The happy hour was pretty decent food. Had some sliders, chips/salsa, and guac. We were upstairs for the happy hour and I really like the setting/view. The food we got tasted pretty decent. Not a bad place to go if you want to get happy hour food. Later, I came back again for dinner. This time I ordered the pork belly taco. If you look at their list, they have a variety of differen/unique tacos. Defintely try pork belly taco if you haven't before. The pork belly had a good mix of fatty and lean meat. The sauce they used soaked into the meat and gave it a sweet flavor which I really liked. Meat lovers?! Give it a try!
(4)Jen M.
Excellent food! I had the pork belly tacos which were delicious, melted in your mouth, and perfectly balanced. I can't wait til i'm back in this area to go back!
(5)Nikki M.
I really want to like Nada. The food's great the margaritas are great. There are lots of great options for omnivores, like myself, to boot. It's a swanky spot to see and be seen. But my last couple of visits have really turned me off because the host staff has an unforgivable attitude. This place is notorious for hiring staff who are supermodel material only. But they treat their customers the same. If you're not decked out in the latest and greatest, be prepared to be treated like a second class customer, seated in an empty restaurant (at 11am sharp) on the second floor as far back as they can seat you, and told you have a time limit with your table. I never realized jeans and chuck taylors were so fashionably offensive! The food's great... but they won't be getting my business anytime soon. Nor will Boca, or any other project from this restaurant group.
(2)Josh G.
Food- I had the Crispy Pork Belly Tacos! OMG! Sheer, unadulterated, orgasm of the mouith! It sounds gross, but it SO is NOT gross; it's heavenly. Juicy, crispy, moist, yumminess. 411: Gluten Free- For my GF friends, they have options for you! I'm not GF, but my date was. They have GF chips and salsa available upon request. They did have to ask if they still had some for the night, so maybe call ahead if you want that option to ensure they have it. They were yummt. Seating- They had outdoor seating, and that is what I preferred. It was perfect weather, and the ambiance was great. They do pack people in very closely, so that part sucked, but all in all, I couldn't complain. Drinks- We had the mojitos. They were ok. Service- Great! Next time I visit, I WILL BE EATING HERE.
(5)Zia S.
First time visiting and we will definitely be making this a regular spot. We arrived around 530 and were seated upstairs, which was ok, but we were the only ones there. As an appetizer we went for the chips and salsa and the chips were the BEST I've ever had...and I'm not a chip fan. Oyster shooters were also excellent. We all wanted more! My boyfriend and I split the grilled red fish tacos and the yucatan chicken. His mon had the vegetarian tacos and his dad got the fried pork belly tacos. Our waiter was very knowledgable and helpful while we were deciding and we didn't have to wait long for our food. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Autumn E.
Nada must be a downtown staple. My fiancee, right stfer proposing on a romantic carriage ride around the city had our driver drop us off at Nada. The decor is sleek and modern, modern art on the walls, beautifully clean,. The hostess led us up a grand staircase, much to my relief, I was looking forward to seeing the upstairs. We were seated by the window and started with guacamole and chips, which I am used to be complimentary, but, oh my, the guacamole is probably the best I have ever had, chunky and flavor ful, served with a spicy but lightly sweet salsa, the perfect compliment. The chips were obviously homemade and delicious, crispy and perfectly salted. I ordered the chicken and corn enchiladas, my fiancee, the steak fajitas. The enchiladas were amazing, just as our server said, the perfect balance of chicken black beans and sweet corn with a spicy red sauce and the perfect amount of sour cream. My fiancee raved over his tender and juicy fajitas and perfectly cooked fixings. Our glasses were never less than half full, attentive without being annoying. The price although was a little high than I was used to was worth every single penny. Although we did not order drinks they had a long and interesting list of margaritas, wines, and beers. I wish we had had room for dessert, although their portions are perfect, just enough to give you a pleasantly full belly. Go to Nada, check it out, it's so very worth it. Go now!
(5)Jarrod And Heather D.
Wow Fabulous place! My boyfriend and I thought the service was good, the decor was inviting (outside patio is awesome). They seem to have put alot of detail and thought into their dishes. We had the queso fondido, guac, pork belly tacos, and a salad.....All were delicious. We will def go back again:) My boyfriend thought it was one of the best mexican restaurants (this means alot considering his friends call him Pablo..lol)
(5)Jennifer S.
Best chicken tacos I've ever had! Me and my girlfriends went for lunch. Was busy, but that's a good thing!
(5)Jacob Y.
On a cold rainy night, during a business trip to Cincinnati, and after a long day of meetings, I ended up back at my hotel, craving for a good dinner. So I figured I was going to walk up the street, considering I was downtown, to see if there was anything on sight as far as restaurant is concerned. When I exited the hotel and walked about two blocks, I was getting a little concerned...downtown was COMPLETELY dead. Until I got to Walnut Street by the theater district, and saw this restaurant. Soaking wet, I stepped in, and thankfully, it was not overly crowded. The decor of this place by the way...very classy and modern. Instead of sitting in a table by myself, I opted to sit at the bar, where the bartenders inquired what I wanted to drink. Now, noticing that this was a Latin style restaurant, I opted for a mojito (LOVE THEM!). After I got served my first drink (which was quite good for the midwest!), I ordered the ceviche for appetizer and tacos. Ceviche, good. Tacos...excellent. And the presentation of both dishes...very pleasing to the eye. The service was also very good. The bartenders were very expedient with my orders and drinks. Who would have thunk there was a good Latin restaurant smack middle of downtown Cinci!
(4)Aaron J.
Every time I'm in Cinci I try to make it to Nada. I'm from out of town, but I get the impression this is one of the TBS restaurants downtown. *Great homemade tortilla chips that are crazy addictive *Savory Carnitas taco's that will make you want to come back tomorrow Check out the pictures people have posted... How can you not check this place out or want to go back? Give it a shot and enjoy!
(5)Emily H.
Nada is one of my favorite restaurants in Cincinnati. Hands down. I'm not sure the exact reasons why, I think it's just the combination of everything. I went there last night with one of my girlfriends. I had a gift card that I was saving for a somewhat special occasion but then decided to use it anyway because I deserve it ;) Having a gift card is definitely nice because you don't have to think quite as much about how much you're spending. That is the one downside of Nada, it can be a little pricey for what you get. BUT, the food is awesome. I think 2 of the main reasons I love it are for the sangria and chips and guacamole. I am a huge fan of both things and Nada's are excellent. I don't even care that I'm full of chips by the time my main entree comes because I just love them that much. On that note, they have a great happy hour. I used to work very close by and would always try to convince my co-workers to go there. The sangria and chips are half price so it's a great deal! More reasons why I love Nada: the atmosphere is fun, the people are really nice, and all the other food is fabulous. I had the spicy beef tacos and they were superb. I've also had their butternut squash soup and gazpacho. The gazpacho was seasonal so if you see it on their menu I suggest snatching it up! All in all, it's a fun night out with great food. Reservations are a definite plus.
(5)Mike D.
Nada is an upscale mexican/tex-mex restaurant right in the middle of the expanding (finally!) arts/restaurant district in downtown cincinnati. the decor is cool, modern architecture with vibrant mexican themed art pieces on the walls. there is a bustling lounge area on the first floor and a quieter dining area upstairs, all with cool views of the CAC and patio outside. the service was great, from the friendly and accommodating hostesses, genial bartender to the hustling waiter and busboy. the food was fantastic. we had a party of 6 and we all shared bites from each others' dishes, and pretty much everything tasted fresh and delicious. the pork belly tacos are nigh indescribable (but i'll try), with a lightly crunchy exterior and a melt-in-yo-mouf, almost fluffy interior. so good. one of the best things i've ever eaten. the corn and chicken enchiladas were rich and flavorful. The ceviche was fresh and citrusy. the poblano mac and cheese was bursting with flavor and contrast in texture with the breadcrumbs on top. some of the downsides: as always, the chips were great, but could stand to have a little more salt on them. the guacamole is kind of meh. the margarita was a little light in the tequila department. maybe thats why all the girls like them (or maybe i'm just a raging lush?). and the scene can be a little downtown douche-y if you go on a weekend night. go sunday through thursday if you're allergic to yuppies (my tourrette's really flares up when i'm around them) but if it gets too out of hand, you can disappear into the bathroom and watch three amigos on one of the tvs. Theres no sound, but if you're like me you already know all the words, so you can just quote the whole thing. What is this? Gringos falling from the sky?! Yes, El Guapo!
(5)Jesse F.
I'm usually not a fan of trendy places. If it's a must-see venue "THE HOT SPOT" I'll probably just pass it by. Nada, despite its trendiness, is worth checking out though. The location they have is amazing, and the layout of the restaurant itself is pretty cool. I've never been disappointed, per se, by any meal, but the food could have kicked it up a notch. The drinks are very well made and you can expect to find some exotic specialties you won't find many other places. However, this is a place to see and be seen. If you're looking to party in the downtown business district, Nada is probably the place you should start your night.
(3)Rex I.
Great fish tacos! Nice place.
(4)Debbie M.
NADA is located in the coveted presence of The Aronoff Center rendering it the perfect stop before or after a night at the opera, ballet, or theater. The menu is abundant with Mexican standards done with more than a few tasty twists. We love fish tacos but the shrimp tacos are hard to resist. The servers are friendly, menu knowledgeable , and just the right amount of attentiveness. I will say the noise level is excessive. If you need to take it down a notch request to sit upstairs. My favorite thing: the ceviche appetizer. Try it!
(3)Brad K.
Nada is definitely worth the adventure particularly if you're not looking for anything too heavy. The seats are right on top of each other and the music is just loud enough that your conversations all blend into each other. But. The wait staff was on top of things. We sat at the upstairs bar for 45 minutes (we arrived early -- we were actually seated one minute before our reservation...so kudos for that!) and hung out. It seemed much quieter upstairs. When we were seated, our waiter did a nice job attending to us without being overly in our space. And the food was pretty good. (We had the fish and vegetarian tacos.) A word of warning: the chips and salsa are good. It's easy to fill up on them. Don't. Do. It. All in all we had a good time. It was a bit too loud and we were a bit too on top of our neighbors, but otherwise, it was a great good time.
(4)Richard Z.
After eating at Nada twice and being disappointed twice I have decided to share my experiences on Yelp. Atmosphere: The atmosphere and restaurant itself are Nada's saving grace. Visiting in the summer offered a relax feel with the sights and sounds of downtown Cincinnati. My winter visit included sitting by the fire pit before I was seated, and having dinner on the second floor of Nada. In addition to these things, Nada also has an excellent location. The restaurant is just north of Fountain Square, next to the Arnoff. Food and Drinks: First I will list the food I have ordered: chips and salsa, Nada sliders, chicken tacos, and a Nadarita. First, the chips are great for the price, only two dollars! However the salsa looked flavorful but ended up being very bland. The Nada sliders looked great when they came out and tasted good too. Unfortunately they made me sick to my stomach for the rest of the night. The chicken tacos hooked me on the menu being served with guacamole and "Chihuahua Cheese". When the dish came out I was disappointed to find that there was a scanty amount of guacamole, and that the special chihuahua cheese was nothing more than Kraft shredded monterey jack cheese. The taste of the chicken tacos was identical to the food I have had at both Don Pablos and Chiles.... only for twice the price. Lastly, the Nadarita which I had heard nothing but great things about. Obviously these are made with Nada's own margarita mix which has real fruit juice and not much sugar. There was plenty of alcohol in the Nadarita and it was hidden well, that is one of the few positive things I can say for it. Service: The service here leaves something to be desired. On both of my visits the service was somewhat slow even though each waiter/waitress only seemed to have two or three tables. The server I most recently had came off as be snooty and pretentious, the first thing she asked our table was, "Have you had a chance to look through our drink literature?" What?? Price: For the price paid the quality of the food was up to par. However, in my experience I didn't feel that the TASTE of the food matched what I was getting for the price. For that reason I won't be going to Nada again. I feel like there are many better options around Fountain Square.
(2)Samantha B.
Lovely ambiance, beautiful staff, delicious food, adorable heated patio, and much much more! My girlfriend and I spent a weekend in the area and wanted to try Nada as soon as we spotted it. The wait times on a Saturday night were pretty long, but the patio was first come first serve and since it was heated we sat outside. It was a gorgeous night, and it is such a cute patio. Oh my goodness, the food! The food is the bomb dot com. I got the grilled redfish tacos, my girlfriend got the crispy pork belly, and we shared some guac, queso dip, and Mexican mac n cheese. Everything was perfect. The pork belly was the most delicious pork I have ever tasted! Everything had great flavor. Drinks are somewhat expensive, but worth it in the end. I had the mango-chile margarita, could have used more heat, but it was still very yummy. Dessert! The sangria poached pear is unique and delectable. However, the warm chocolate tart is life changing. Banana fosters gelato!!!!!! Say what???!?!?! I would highly recommend Nada to friends, family, and strangers. It is a little expensive, but well worth it! Hope this review helps you with your choice!
(5)Doug S.
If it wasn't for the mac & cheese, I'd give it 2 stars... The food is good, don't get me wrong: Chips & Salsa - really good, not your cookie-cutter chips, these look and taste like homemade Mac & Cheese - excellent! very savory, great depth of flavor. Pork Belly Tacos - not near as good as waiter promised, but I think they were probably overcooked (not sure b/c I'd never had "pork belly" before) Mahi Mahi Tacos - good, not great But, bottom line, this place is way overpriced. You are paying for atmosphere, which is nice here, but not worthy of the food above plus 2 drinks being an $80 meal. It's good, but it's not that good.
(3)James Michael S.
I was really impressed with Nada. I didn't think Cincy could deliver such wholesome Mexican but I was wrong! Get the grilled chicken tacos, they're 5 star quality.
(5)Dan M.
Just as a disclaimer, this isn't really authentic Mexican food - but that doesn't mean it's not good - because it is. I've been once for dinner. Everything looked & tasted great. Then, the other day, I went with a friend on Sunday for lunch. It turned out that they were having their first ever brunch. I'm not really one for breakfast food, so I was a little disappointed about this. We each ordered a menu item and swapped them halfway through. They were both excellent. In my opinion, this place ranks amongst the best in Cincinnati for taste and menu. Bottom Line: I'll definitely be back with friends - for dinner, lunch or brunch.
(5)David B.
We visited Nada while in Cincinnati over the holidays. The food and drinks were as good or better than anything we have found in the Bay Area. The staff were all very friendly and helpful as well. We loved it!
(5)Miss J.
This place is awesome! It's so nice when you walk in, they have a really neat spiral staircase and the bathrooms have tvs in them which is neat. We had the Mexican mac n cheese for an appetizer which was so creamy and cheesy, left me wanting more! I had the chicken corn enchiladas for my meal. They were so good! I would definitely recommend it if you like chicken. The staff was excellent, on point. The prices are just a little bit high, but with that service and quality of food it is so worth it!
(5)Derek C.
If I could have done a three and a half, I would have. I enjoyed my lunch at Nada but felt it was not worth the price that you pay. To the eye, Nada is gorgeous, with a clean, contemporary interior featuring lots of natural orange hues. As I noted, I went for lunch, and I was surprised at the tiny menu. It was about half the width of a sheet of legal paper and the choices were fairly limited. However, I did not have an issue with this as I had checked their menu at their very nice website before choosing them for lunch. I began with the chicken taquitos. These were excellent with a crispy shell sitting in a generous helping of tomatillo sauce. The sauce gave a great flavor to the appetizer. For my entree, I had the chicken tacos. The chicken was prepared just right with generous amounts of cheese and diced tomatoes (or maybe it was pico). The flavor was not your typical Mexican restaurant fair but quite agreeable. My biggest complaint, and what kept me from going for four stars, was that there was nothing really special about the dishes. They were excellent but for a $30 lunch, it should either be the best Mexican I have ever had or it should be a very unique dish unlike anything else I have tasted. Unfortunately, my lunch was neither. I would probably go back to Nada but only if I were on a travel expense account. For my personal dollar, I am not sure I am getting "bang for my buck" when there are numerous other places in or near downtown Cincinnati that can offer so much more for the a similar price.
(3)Kevin O.
Came for the homemade chips, stayed for the delicious carnitas. If you are looking for a trendy dinner setting, Nada won't disappoint. With an lively atmosphere mixed with unique artwork and a two-story floor-plan this restaurant has a lot to offer for a fun night out. So far I have been to this place once on a late Saturday night. Plan for a reservation and try to steal a spot in the bar for the wait, since it is almost always packed The food is very good, if not slightly on the expensive side. I knew what to expect going in, but just be aware that a meal for to will probably set you back 50-60 dollars with a bit extra on top for parking. My meal started with their homemade chips and salsa with guacamole on the side. The chips were awesome to say the least. Flaky multi-layered fried goodness sprinkled with salt and ready to crumble apart in your mouth. Did I mention I loved them? My main course was the carnitas with braised pork. The dish was served with three tacos overlapping each other with the filling carefully spread across the bunch. The shells were a mixture of soft and mildly crispy, following the same multi-layered look of their chips. Starting right to left I had those three tacos finished before I knew what hit me... very addicting. All in all the Nada experience was very enjoyable, with excellent wait-staff, and a friendly atmosphere. Now if the question you might ask is when will I return... my budget will probably leave it as a "once in a while" dinner event.
(4)Denise Y.
Pretty pleasant experience, I'm giving Nada 4 stars especially for the way they handled a big party in a small restaurant. I came with 11 other people and were seated 5 minutes past reservation time which was on time in my book. Our waiter was really helpful, energetic, and great at giving some pointers on the menu. After we sat, we got generous portions of chips, salsa, and guacamole. The guacamole had cucumber, jicama, and radish slices on the side which was a really nice complement. It was a little too citrusy for my taste but still good. I ordered the barbacoa tacos which are three well portioned tacos. BUT the meat looked like it was piped out from a pastry bag and since it was spicy shredded beef, then well you know, it didn't look so appetizing. Once I got past it, the taco was pretty good. I traded one of my barbacoa for a shrimp taco and it was good as well, well seasoned and cooked shrimp with mixed greens and avocado. My table had a round of supreme margaritas, good but also quite expensive ($14?! 12 people?!). The drinks in general are expensive and because the whole table had a round of margaritas we got tequila shots at a discount. Our waiter was awesome at helping us with this.
(4)Luke S.
Pork Belly tacos take it to a whole new level. Be sure to add the fried eggs to each of the tacos! It's like breakfast and dinner all in one. Yet to boot, the Mojito was subtle and tasty.
(5)Jill R.
a haiku to nada: please come to portland man i do love this restaurant jelly of cinci
(5)Diva D.
One of the best mexicAn restaurants in the country. The veggie tacos are unbeleivably good.
(5)Kris L.
I went to Nada for lunch because of the Yelp reviews. It is right downtown near the contemporary art museaum, galleries, restaurants and the theater. It is a cool contemporary spot with a large bar area and several dining areas inside and out. The afternoon menu (not lunch, not dinner) has appetizers and a choice of three taco plates mahi mahi, barbacoa which was short rib and chicken. Definitely start with their chips and salsa as the chips are made fresh and are light and airy and the salsa is a deep red rich roasted tomato salsa with the right touch of citrus and sweetness. I had two of the short rib tacos (dinner menu is 3) and they came on fresh masa tortillas that were grilled to order with very rich tomato and vinagery short rib that was perfect with just a squeeze of lime on top and pickled onions. I checked out the dinner menu and they added 3 braised dishes, chicken, pork and lamb which you could get as a trio and also more tacos including crispy pork belly which all looked good. All in all a hip fun spot in downtown Cincinnati with rich delicious Mexican food.
(3)Mike M.
i really like nada. as pretentious as it can be, and as long as you may have to wait (hence the 4 stars), it is really good food. the queso fundido will rock you. carnitas tacos destroy my face. careful not to load up on the super awesome chips though, because you will never finish your super awesome meal. one last thing - the pours on the drinks are outta sight. be sure you walk and not drive here:).
(4)Brad B.
Great Spanish food for downtown. Great date spot but bring your wallet.
(3)Audrey L.
I've been here twice, and both times I've felt super elite and special. I'm not sure if it is the hip decor or the fact that it's always packed, but I love it! This is a place to be seen- actually a restaurant where you WILL feel out of place if you don't dress up (at least for dinner). There's hardly any of those anymore! And although it doesn't really say, Nada is upscale/modern Mexican. The head chef, David Falk, is also the chef at Boca in Oakley, so you know you are in for a treat! Be prepared for a longer wait unless you have reservations.... and you should even make those several days in advance. If you're a last minute person (like me), during your wait, you can sit at the bar and have a drink or two. I've tried the sparkling sangria, nada-rita, and the pink grapefruit margarita. I'd have to say the sparkling sangria was my favorite: fruity with a little fuzz. The margaritas somehow tasted oddly salty to me, and I didn't even drink out the the salt rimmed side of the glass! Both times I've gotten tacos for dinner. Most recently I tried the vegetarian tacos, and before I tried the shrimp tacos. Three tacos per entree, and if you go with a group, it might be fun to share. That's what my friends and I did! The vegetarian tacos were very tasty and were made complete with guac, portabella mushrooms, black beans, cheese, and pico de gallo. Who said vegetarian foods aren't filling has obviously never ate a whole plate of these! I could only scarf down 2. I do have to say though, the shrimp tacos are still my favorite. Warm tacos with fresh cooked shrimp, corn, and greens dressed with creamy lime dressing. Mmmm- they are so good! I loved the greens with the shrimp! There is a perfect amount of bite to them too, so don't worry about your nose awkwardly running while you're trying to enjoy your food! Enjoy the patio during the summer- it is awesome! They have fun lanterns on the trees and plenty of plants to make it feel enclosed although you are sitting out on the sidewalk. I will absolutely be back.... mahi mahi tacos and a mojito- you're next on my list!
(5)Margie C.
Great atmosphere, Friendly staff and simple but good food. Nice place to go on a date or out with friends. Reasonably priced. Fairly loud. Valet parking available and next to theatre. Shrimp tacos were fabulous:)
(3)A B.
I was in town for a short business trip and our team dinner was @ Nada. Having never been to downtown Cincinnati before, I was pleased to dine at this restaurant. The decor was pretty modern and the atmosphere was fun! The chips they serve taste like a cross between a tortilla and those fried crackers often served at Chinese restaurants. They were good but a little heavy to eat more than a handful. Salsa was fresh and guac was awesome. Their portions are smaller than you would expect but I wouldn't say that's a negative considering how full you can get from Mexican food. Overall, a pleasant dining experience and if Nada were close to home - I would like pay a return visit!
(3)Dawn E.
I was recently in Cincinnati for job training and we needed a place for dinner downtown near our hotels. I want to tell everyone to test out this place. It is going down in the books for sure. We had a party of 7 and made a reservation, which wasn't needed anyways for a Sunday night (it wasn't busy). Our party ordered one of everything I believe and everyone was satisfied. The drinks were great, as well, that after our meal we moved into the bar area to have a couple more drinks.
(5)Angel S.
I'm really torn on this one... REASONS TO GO: The interior is very modern with Spanish flair, has a lot of accents with a large spiral(ish) staircase, cool tiles and 300 lbs of chips stacked on the back bar as some of the decor. The shrimp tacos were perfectly spiced and had just enough sauce to keep moisten the tortilla, but not too much where it ends up on the front of your shirt. There are some really cute male servers. REASONS TO STAY AWAY: Seems to be a bachelorette party hot spot, there were 2 bachelorette parties (complete with penis straws) when we were there...annoying! I found a hair in the salsa, no matter how good the food was, that is the only thing I will probably remember long term.
(3)Leib L.
Terrific service and attitude. (thanks Anthony!) Fantastic cazuelas, guacamole and drinks. Try iron pot sampler (get the egg on top!) for a fabulous treat!
(5)Kristopher L.
The atmosphere was extremely laid back and upscale, I took a date we both enjoyed the salsa &chips with good conversation. The hostess & waiters were all a delight, very insightful when it came to ordering & being served.... I ordered the lamb mole with buttermilk squash, IT WAS DELICIOUS seasoned very nice, with chek peas, and tortillas to go along. Overall I was very satisfied with the oar of the restaurant, and will be returning.
(4)Chelsea V.
One word.... Margaritas!!!! Not being a huge margarita fan myself, I found myself drinking just, well - a few (no worries, walking distance from home). But it's not just one type of tastey margarita, but several for your tastebuddies to give a try. Accompanying your sweet drink is fresh salsa and yes, some of the best guacamole I have EVER had!!!! Not only are the apps and cocktails great, but if you are looking to dine, the menu is off the charts. The fish tacos are fantastic and if you are a mac and cheese peep like me?! You will absolutely love Nada's!! Conveniently next to the Aronoff and other hot places to strut on a Friday night, stop in for a starter cocktail or fuel for a night of fun!!
(3)Marc S.
Salsa is bland, had to doctor it up. Chips are great though. Had the fish tacos, they were okay. Service is good. A place to go every once in awhile for something different.
(3)Clint M.
Being from Texas, I am used to a certain menu at every Mexican restaurant I eat it. The only thing that separates the places are the quality of the food and it's always easy to compare since they all have the exact same menu. This place has a very different menu and I feel like I've been missing out! I recommend the Queso fundido before your meal and the crispy pork belly tacos after that. Amazingly tender and well cooked! My wife got the chicken and corn tortillas and those were excellent too.
(5)Ryan P.
Believe me when I say I'm a cheapskate. I love good food, but there are very few times where I justify the price of going out to eat somewhere even remotely expensive. For my 30th birthday, I decided that I wanted to try somewhere new. I settled on Nada mostly due to my affinity for good Mexican food, and also the fact that it seemed unique and expensive enough to seem worthwhile (if that makes any sense). Plus, since I was going on a Monday I would recoup my costs by going to the free admission night at the CAC right across the street. It was a brilliant plan, and I set it in motion by making a 5:30 reservation at Nada. I had scoured the menu endlessly, and knew exactly what I wanted, and knew that my picky eater of a wife would find something that she would enjoy as well. Upon arriving, I informed the hostess of my reservation, and she proceeded to seat us over at a nice window table looking out onto 6th Street. It was a great place to people watch. Unfortunately, the low point of the evening was our server. He was very attentive and did a great job, but he wasn't overly friendly and his attitude was middle-of-the-road. He never bothered to ask us if we had been there before, and didn't seem the least bit interested in his job. Luckily, we knew what we wanted, and I proceeded to order the chips and salsa for an appetizer (well worth the measly $2 cost). The chips are slightly greasy, but you didn't notice that when you dipped them into that fantastic Nada salsa. They were really better than anything in the area (save Cactus Pear). For my entree, I had the pork belly tacos with a side of mashed plantains, and the wife had the chicken and cheese enchiladas. Her first bite into the enchiladas, I knew that she had picked a winner. She loved every bit of it, save the crema, which she ordered on the side for me (she's not a sour cream fan). That was ok, because the crema went perfectly with my pork belly tacos, which if you've read any of the other reviews, you'd know were amazing. I also had to pry the mashed plantains away from the wife, as they really stole the show, not something you can usually say for a side dish. We were all content on going to the Fountain Square Greaters for desert, but the dulce de leche crepes were far too delicious sounding to pass up. They ended up being well worth it, as the blend of crepe, caramel, strawberry, and dulce de leche gelato was simply amazing! All in all, the bill totaled $67.50ish after tip, with the aforementioned items and one beer (Breckenridge Agave Wheat, which was fantastic). Both the wife and I agreed that it was a meal well worth the price. We'll surely be back, and hopefully we'll have a more chipper server next time as well!
(5)Lauryn K.
My friends and I stopped in at Nada about ten minutes before the kitchen was set to close. We had planned to eat, and they offered us dinner menus, but not wanting to be those jerks who force the kitchen staff to work late, we just ordered some chips and salsa and drinks. Not twenty minutes later, a server appeared with plates full of every appetizer on the menu, unasked for, free of charge, and amazingly delicious. This place is, without a doubt, the best.
(5)dale d.
I do hope this restaurant succeeds, it's in a great location. An excellent place for lunch and dinner, or a happy hour with friends after work. The food is great, and it's authentic Mexican. A funny sidebar: Every time I enter that place the bartender with the fake boobs and tan is squeezing lemons at the bar. I guarantee she's doing that all night. My friends get a kick out of it. Keep squeezing girl, you're doing a wonderful job.
(4)Chris M.
Service (at the bar): 3 Food: 5 Atmosphere: 4 I was in Cincinnati on business and went to Nada on a recommendation from a co-worker. She told me it was good Mexican but a little pricey. She was right. This is some very good, quality Mexican food. Being raised in Oklahoma, I know good Tex-Mex/Mexican. It was also expensive. I understand they use very fresh, quality ingredients, but $25 for tacos, chips and salsa, and one beer is a little rich for my blood. This place would have a 4.5 if it weren't for the price. Mexican food is cheap to make! When I came in, I had to get the hostess's attention rather than her greeting me. The place was way too crowded for a Wednesday night, and I got a vibe from the hostess that I wasn't cool enough to be eating at this trendy little place. I was eating by myself and had to hover over people at the bar to Once I sat down, there were only 1 and a half bartenders working, so getting one's attention took a little time. I eventually ordered some Chips and Salsa and the Carnitas Tacos. I was a little upset that a basket of chips and salsa costs extra. They should always be included... like bread at an Italian restaurant. Just a pet peeve of mine. I got over the $2 once they came though. The chips were made in-house from homemade tortillas. DELICIOUS!! The salsa was good too, but nothing to rave about. When I was ordering my Carnitas Tacos, the menu gave two option below the description of the entree: Gringo Style (Mild) or El Diablo (Hot). Me liking moderately spice food and not wanting to be a whimpy white boy, I went hot. Little did I know there was a third unlisted option, medium, which is how the tacos come if you don't specify mild or hot. Needless to say, I got some lava tacos. Don't get me wrong, they were EXCELLENT, but I had to drink at least 5 glasses of water with them. Overall, I would come back here with some friends for a nice meal before going clubbing on a Saturday night. It has kind of a hip, trendy, clubby to it. The service at the bar is mediocre, but food comes out quickly once you order. And although the food is expensive, it is truly tasty and the only reason I give this restaurant 4 stars.
(4)Nicholas A.
It is hard to put a finger on what I don't like about it. The food is okay; the prices are okay; the atmosphere is nice, but not amazing; it is not nice enough to pair with a night at the Aronoff and not close enough to bars we like to make a night of it in that direction either. I have only been when invited to join a group and it will probably stay that way.
(2)Mike G.
Good stuff. Enough said.
(4)Amanda A.
I would literally go to Nada for their "liquid diet" The margaritas and sangria are amaaaaaazing. Love the mac n cheese and the mahi mahi tacos are a personal fave. the wait is a little obnoxious but go with a bunch of people and sit at the bar to wait it out:)
(5)Whitney K.
All I can say is "DELICIOUS!" Chicken taco's are amazing along with the sangria. I love the atmosphere. In most of my reviews you will come to notice that atmosphere is probably one of my main critiques and well.....Nada does a good job of presenting itself well. Great food, great place, good drinks....Check it out!
(4)Chris H.
Well, I was looking for a place to eat, close to ten at night, downtown and the folks at the cincinnatian suggested this Mexican joint. I was at first, luke warm to Mexican food, which I love, yet was not sure it was what I wanted. Boy am I glad we went! The service was fantastic, the environment was fun, full of life and the weather nice enough to sit outside. Tried the soup, guac, salsa, some chicken dish and tacos, soft with meat that was succulent. Awesome across the board. Also tried several drinks, from sangria to a spicy margarita, and they were great. Desert was tres leches and was as good as the main course. Gave it four stars only because I felt five was over the top, yet could easily give it five stars. Enjoy!
(4)Ben K.
Maybe I'm spoiled by the great Mexican in San Francisco and the Tex-Mex in Austin, but I couldn't love Nada. The food was so bland I had to add hot sauce, and the hot sauce available was the worst kind - no flavor, just hot. I like spicy food, and have developed a tolerance, but I want spicy flavor, not spicy boring. The menu is small, which is good - and there are options for all types of eaters (rare in the Midwest), so veggies can find one or two options. I didn't try it, but the table next to mine loved the margaritas, and they do have quite a unique selection, as well as premium tequilas. I'd be surprised if there were a better Mexican/Mexican-fusion place within 50 miles, so it is worth a stop, the service is pleasant, and it sure seems like the place to see and be seen in town, but as far as Mexican food goes, I'm not in love. I'd suggest it though for groups after work as there will be something to please everyone even with the smallish menu, and no one will wind up too disappointed.
(3)Stacy A.
Oh man, how do I begin to describe how much I love Nada... It is hard for me to pick a favorite dish at Nada, so my girlfriends and I will go out for dinner and split as much food as we can. A great starter would be the chips, salsa, and guac. (Beware, the chips are quite greasy though delicious). The Nada sliders are amazing and typically followed by a sampler of tacos and a side of the mac 'n cheese, which is nothing less than inspirational. The gazpacho and plantain specials, when available, are a neccessity. Additionally, the atmosphere and service are fantastic and the price is reasonable.
(5)Phil M.
pretentious. not very coo
(2)John C.
One of my absolute favorite restaurants in Cincinnati. We've brought several out-of-town friends here and it never disappoints. It's definitely a "modern Mexican" restaurant. So don't expect authentic Mexican food, but do expect amazing Mexican food.
(5)Jennifer R.
Nada is "upscale casual" perfectly executed. It was nice without being pretentious. Service was great, ambiance was excellent. Loved the mac and cheese. I've been dying to go back.
(4)Gregor M.
I am pretty sure that I had just deplaned in Cincinnati, OH, but after being seated at Nada, felt surrounded by the trendy sights and sounds of San Francisco. Following a brief and very helpful overview of the menu by our hostess (intelligent and attractive), who shared with us her favorite picks offered on and off the menu, it was time to indulge. We started off with the salmon ceviche and chicken taquitos, both very delicious, and enough for two to share. Paired with Patron.... even better. For dinner, I had the barbacoa tacos, and my friend had the salmon vera cruz, both were exceptional, and promptly served. If you live in the "Cincy" area, or are just passing through as I was, "Nada" is nothing to pass up!
(4)Steve S.
Took a trip to downtown for a 2 night trip with my wife and this was one of our must stops for dinner. Fantastic food. Thick chips, unique salsa, fresh guac, enchiladas are crazy good, and the specialty chicken is wonderful (can't remember what the dish is called but its one of the most popular) . Great service. Ask for Antoine as a server. The poor downtown is struggling a bit but this place is a shining star amidst the darkness.
(5)Marie E.
I love Nada! I love their margaritas! I love their fish tacos and enchiladas! I don't care what the price is because ultimately yes it is expensive for Mexican but it is not expensive for a great meal which is how it should be treated. Pasta and meat sauce is not inherently more valuable than tacos and enchiladas. Why can't Mexican food charge Italian food prices? Make reservations or you are in for a long wait.
(5)cristina T.
Nada is expensive, it is not authentic Mexican, but the food is good. Parking is a bit of a hassle if you don't want to valet, and it seems that Nada is a place where people go just to be seen, so the crowd can be a bit loud. We showed up around 6p on a Friday, without reservations, and were lucky we were able to get seated in the outdoor patio. The food, for the most part , is better than most places we've been to in the area. Like most salsas in Cincinnati, the one at Nada is nothing special and had no spice or kick to it. We had a sweet corn tamal for an appetizer, and it was very tasty and had a good texture. I ordered the corn and chicken enchiladas, and while I was disappointed to see that the enchiladas were made out of flour tortillas instead of corn, the taste was delicious. My husband had the pork and green chile cazuela which he also enjoyed. The service was good and the atmosphere may be better indoors, so I'd recommend getting reservations. Overall, it's a place I'd eat at again.
(4)J T.
When did Cincinnati get so hip??? Who knew??? Okay, Cinci has always been a little edgy - especially for a Midwest town. But seriously - the middle of the downtown area on this weekday evening was totally happening; band playing, lots of people having fun and lots of fashion. Nada is a sort of Mexican fusion restaurant in the center of downtown with two levels including a bar on both floors and outdoor dining as well. Overall a great setup for a nice meal out. The food was good - diverse selection of tacos seemed to be the major incentive. Chips and salsa was nice and the guacamole just right. Service was outstanding really - meaning very prompt, attentive, engaged and multiple people attending, besides a primary server. All in all a great scene for food and fun - recommend Nada.
(4)Julian B.
Nada is the trendiest Mexican restaurant you will ever visit. Thankfully, it's also one of the tastiest. Located in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, Nada lights up the otherwise dull Cinci scene with loud food and even louder decor. Brightly colored flood lights canvas the outside walls, and hip Japanese-import-only Kid Cudi tracks pump from the speakers as if to remind everyone that "Hey, this is no ordinary Mexican restaurant". Thankfully, it would appear that Nada puts just as much effort in to its food as it does its facade. The tortilla chips served for starters were double-layered and fried, making them extra crunchy, greasy, and infinitely more delicious. I wouldn't order the guacamole to go with it as it was only average, but the salsa was excellent (and free!) As far as the entrees go, myself and my coworkers had the chicken tacos, mahi mahi tacos, and a pork stew called an iron pot between us. The pork stew was a bit too thickly spiced for my taste, but the meat itself was well marinated and perfectly cooked. The chicken tacos were fairly vanilla, but like the pork, the meat was perfectly marinated and cooked. The mahi mahi tacos, however, were UNBELIEVABLE. Apologies for the caps but I seriously need you to vibe with me on how fantastic these little fish tacos were. Breaded in a Dos Equis beer batter, these tacos deserve their own gallery in the Crunchy Foods hall of fame. The serving of fish on each individual taco was also very generous, and to boot the dish is very moderately priced (right around $20). My only beef with Nada - that unfortunately cost this review it's 5th star -was the subpar service. Our waiter was very forgetful, inattentive, and only interested in recommending the most expensive dishes on the menu. However, I would say that this tiny hiccup can definitely be overlooked given how enjoyable your meal is likely going to be. Not sure if there's a discount for wearing skinny jeans and horn rimmed glasses, but it could be worth a shot. Recommended from the menu: Mahi Mahi Tacos
(4)Michael M.
I had the steak and fried egg fajitas for brunch and was pleasantly surprised. I would give 4.5 stars as there is some room for improvement but not much.
(5)Peter K.
I was in town for business for a night, and bopped onto Yelp to see what I should be looking for downtown, and found Nada. I was initially skeptical of a Mexican place in Cincinnati, but given the great recommendations, decided to give it a whirl. I was not disappointed. Aside from the somewhat odd feature of having to pay for your own chips and salsa, which is a pretty foreign experience for a California-boy, everything was tip-top. I highly, highly recommend the Chicken Tortilla soup. It was an exceedingly rich broth, and did not suffer from the wateriness that you often get. It was so filling, I almost had wished I had only ordered it and some more margaritas. The chile verde was excellent, and again, very thick and hearty. The one thing I could have hoped for would have been an option for corn tortillas, rather than the typical flour. If you ever find yourself in Cincinnati and need to grab dinner, Nada was todo I needed.
(4)Pramee M.
So, I had been to Nada plenty of times and it's been great every time. From the margaritas (so I was told) to the appetizers to the food, everything is excellent. It's a great place to go after work or pre party. The only downfall is the salsa and chips. The salsa is great, but the chips are greasy and are just not that great. Otherwise, I would definitely return to Nada next time I am in Cincinnati.
(4)Anson P.
Honestly, I did not expect to find a restaurant like Nada in Cincinnati. It was definitely interesting to have this place picked for our group by an older physician, but whatever works. He definitely has good taste. We were a large group and rolled into a private dining room upstairs. The bar area looked pretty busy. We started off with chips with salsa and guacamole. The guacamole was pretty good. I wasn't a fan of the salsa. It was too watery and smoky. I just don't like smoky salsa. We also had the sopes (crispy bread boats with meat, onions, and cheese). These were very tasty and lighter than I expected. The chicken taquitos were ok, nothing to write home about. For my entree, I had the roasted "gerber farms" chicken. The chicken itself was very good and had a nice crispy salty skin. It went well with the corn although the fregula tasted like mushy pasta and contributed nothing to the dish really. What really makes the dish though is an added splash of hot sauce from the table. The person next to me ordered the pork shoulder and seemed happy with it. The service was pretty good and drink orders were filled reasonably well. Tried a mojito and a vodka cranberry, both were reasonably strong. There is a parking garage nearby as we couldn't find any spots on the street.
(4)Fuzzysaurus L.
So nada has been open for a couple months now and i finally got to try it. Located where the old bella used to be near the Aronoff, nada is the new restaurant of Chef David Falk - of the Boca Restaurant acclaim. The food could be described as high end Mexican/Latin fusion with appetizers such as fresh guacamole (very very good) or tacos to share (2 per order). For the entrees, choose from cazuelas which are similar to little pots of intensely flavored stews, to "large" plates of specialties like the "niman ranch" pork shop or shrimp and tamal. Although the food is tasty, be forewarned that this is not the place to go if you're hungry (similar to Boca) - it can get quite expensive rather quickly as the portions aren't that big. Also - don't expect the food to be the same unexpected delight that Boca dishes offer. It's good, but the element of uniqueness isn't there. All in all, this is a good place to go to if you want something tasty in small portions. The atmosphere is quite boisterous and it's a fun place to be. Great lunch spot, and the outside seating is good for happy hour if the weather's nice. Favorites? mahi mahi tacos - deliciously crispy and flaky guacamole - very fresh, they added sliced beets on top which added a nice crunch pork green chile cazuela - the stew was very flavorful and the pork tender. i think this and the mahi mahi are the best dishes there. oh - on a side note, be sure to save room for dessert. this warm chocolate torte with bananas foster gelato was the one dish where i was surprised! it's not to be missed.
(4)The Big Babboon I.
THE BEST PORK BELLY TACOS EVER...Seriously...THE BEST! Cocktails were nice too..
(5)Diane B.
Great food and I was very impressed with how accommodating they are with my dietary needs(gluten and dairy free). I have been 3 times in the 2 months I've lived here and will continue to go back!
(5)Ben J.
HUGE fan. One of the best places to eat in Cincy. It's also a great bar to hang before you hit downtown. The quac is delish and fresh. There is a trio of meats, Cazuela tasting, served in tiny staub cast iron pots that is delicious to share. Fresh ingredients and great service keep me going back every 2 weeks.
(5)Bea D.
Excellent food. Expect to pay a premium here. We went for brunch. I had a lovely cocktail called Velvet Underground. It was $8 -ouch. I liked it so much though that I have since begun making it at home. The staff was kind enough to offer me the recipe. Pork belly tacos are a winner as most Yelpers indicate. I loved the space. It was airy and modern. They have outdoor seating. I am sure it is it delightful, and I would like to sit outside next time I visit Nada.
(4)Karan M.
The vegetarian tacos here are decent. The serving size is adequate however I am not the biggest fan of their spice profiles. The reason I gave Nada 4 stars is for it's location and fun environment. Every time I drive by, I want to stay for a drink or two no matter what day of the week it is.
(4)Ryan P.
Overpriced, but delicious food ("Mexican" should never be this expensive, so I guess you are paying for location). Great atmosphere that lends itself to people watching, especially if something is happening at the Aronoff. Speaking of the theatre...Nada makes a great place to dine and have a drink before or after a show right next door. I would recommend the traditional mojito and the house chips (AMAZING) with their wonderful fire-roasted tomato salsa to start. My wife, who is the aficionado on all things chicken and enchilada, claimed that Nada's version is the best she's ever had. I guess it was the cheese? Anyhow, I had the lamb mole cazuela which was falling apart in the iron pot. There was a great contrast between the richness of the lamb, the fresh pop of the peas and perhaps the best part...the spaghetti squash. I have to admit that this is my first encounter with such a squash and let me tell you, it was superb. Nada is a great, hip place to spend a couple hours munching on well executed Mexican food while tipping back some margaritas or mojitos.
(4)Kathryn W.
The food was really good--good Margaritas too. Service was quite--maybe a little too--attentive. The server gave me the feeling that he was trying to make us his regulars. He said --and I am sure it is true--that the only times they got bad reviews were from people who did not care for the atmosphere on Friday or Saturday nights. A little too busy and loud then perhaps. We sat in a corner and had a great birthsay dinner . I want to go back for the shrimp tacos--very yummy!
(4)James S.
Well, it's not Mexican, but the food was very tasty. I had the Barbacoa Tamal, which was basically spicy barbacoa on top of the masa, which was sweet, with squeezed lime and a tangy green chile sauce drizzled over it. The atmosphere was also not Mexican, but it was classy casual and modern. Overall I quite liked the place, but don't go here if you're expecting real Mexican. It's Mexican themed modern cuisine.
(4)Jim K.
Everyone has covered it. Trust 'em! Everything was great from start to finish. No joke. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Rick S.
Great place. The service was amazing. Make sure you ask to sit in Ruth's section she is awesome.
(5)N M.
This is upscale Mexican. Many traditional Mexican dishes vs the usual American / Mexican or Tex / Mex you find everywhere. If you like Mexican, you will love this place! Great margaritas. Valet parking.
(5)Joob B.
Good Mexican food. Being from a state near the border, I had doubts. But the tinga poblano was delicious. Chicken and Chorizo in a spicy tomato sauce. Very good - nice spice. Guac could have used a bit more salt and lime, but that didn't stop me. Didn't care for the chips. Greasy and Thick. Prefer a thin, non-greasy tortilla. Nice assortment of Mexican Beers.
(3)David C.
Who knew? I would find such great Mexican food in OH. I ate at this spot twice during a recent trip to Cincinnati. A few pointers... if you like corn tortillas... you have to ask for them as they seem to default to flour tortillas. I too found it a bit odd that they make enchiladas with flour tortillas... I've always had them made with corn tortillas... makes for quite a different experience.... not bad... just different. The chips are fantastic.... you do have to pay for them... but they are very good. I will be back to Cincinnati this fall and this will be one of my stops... the food is really great!
(4)Jason B.
Nada is one of the best mexican restaurants in cincy. Good atmosphere, centrally located. Been a few times and if there's anything you could complain about it would be the difficulty of getting a reservation or table, but that's a good sign. The food is very good. I recommend the tinga poblana pot iron or the pork chop.
(5)Aristotle H.
Terrific mexican food with a twist. Love the lively atmosphere. Long wait times so i highly recommend a reservation. Excellent place for a date or a larger gathering. The food never fails to impress... Start with their fruit infused sangria. The bottomless chips are quite addicting and are perhaps best enjoyed with a bowl of their expensive yet delicious guac. I highly recommend the mahi mahi fish tacos (crispy or grilled). Save room for their phenomenal churros.
(4)Lynn V.
s'ok. i ordered the mahi mahi tacos which were GOOD. just enough avocado and pico de gallo. good amount of fried. GOOD. BIGGEST pet peeve: cocktails made with not-fresh ingredients. triple sec needs to die. my margarita was so sweet. but that's kind of my fault: i saw it was made with triple sec. sigh. nada was HOPPING. and it's a tuesday. way to go, cincinnati! waffley 2.5/3
(3)Alvarez W.
Delicious. Pork belly tacos are awesome. Really enjoyed the experience.
(4)Kevin S.
Had brunch on Sunday. Great crowd great feel. The jalapeño Mac and cheese is spectacular as an app
(4)Jared N.
Whoever wrote negative reviews of this place did not get the crispy pork belly tacos. That is all.
(5)Kyle G.
This is one of my new favorite places in Cincinnati. Giant margarita bottles and amazing latin food. The ceviche is as good as it gets.....big props! .....and don't skip the great chips and salsa.
(5)Kristen A.
Nada is a great choice for a bachelorette party! Our table was set up with candy, roses, champagne flutes, and other gifts!
(5)Kelly G.
Nada certainly does not live up to its name - Nothing! Nada, in fact, is actually something. We ordered the guacamole and salsa as an appetizer. The guac was delish - fresh and light, and full of chunks of avocado. Personally, I like fresh flour chips a lot so I fully enjoyed them. The salsa, while fine, was a bit watery for me. The taquitos, served fried with chicken on the inside were covered in a salsa verde and a small amount of a soft cheese similar to ricotta. These were very tasty, and well cooked. I ordered the Mahi Mahi tacos. Three small flour tortillas with a fried piece of Mahi Mahi atop a bed of guacamole, topped with shredded cabbage and pico de gallo. The fish was awesome - not greasy, and very flaky and good. The flavors in the taco blended very well, especially after adding a bit of the fresh lime. My dad ordered the chicken tacos, which turned out to be a bit bland. Grilled chicken (which was a bit dry) piled on black bean puree and topped with cheese and pico de gallo. If you order the chicken tacos, be ready to have the hot sauce handy. The drinks were also good. Great (although NOT large) margaritas, excellent minty sweet (but not too sweet) mojitos. The sangria left something to be desired - the shot of bourbon was not necessary, the glass was small, and it needed more fruit. The drinks were also a bit overpriced for what you get. The service was quick and nice, and might scare grandma with the tattoos - my favorite kind of waiters. :) In general, I think Nada is a great place to visit while on vacation, on a night out, or maybe just celebrating the end of the week. The prices make it a "once and a while" but the food makes it a definite "more than once".
(4)Zak R.
Being new to the city, I was told this place was a MUST! I was disappointed with the food, it was good but not great. Steep prices and small portion sizes were evident. Thankfully the service was decent and my company was excellent, otherwise it would have received a lower rating.
(2)Chris L.
Excellent food and drink! We had the guacamole appetizer, veggie tacos, and barbicoa tacos. The sparkling sangria was light and refreshing. If in town again, we'll probably order the exact same meal!
(4)Christoffer M.
I'll put it out there up front: I don't like Mexican food. But I do like good food, and Nada was able to mitigate that first distaste by leaning heavily on the second. The freshness of the herbs and citrus was indisputably apparent in my ceviche, so although cilantro is not my favorite leaf, I could still enjoy the refreshing appetizer. If you, too, are not a huge fan of the cuisine south of the border, there are plenty of Americano items for you: burgers and some other grilled meats have only a hint of Mexican influence. However, the traditional fare (fish tacos - get them fried not grilled - braised beef ribs in mole sauce) is the best so long as you don't share my ethnic cuisine prejudice. The ambience is very lively here, especially before a show at the Aronoff, at which times you will definitely need reservations. The hip location downtown (across from the Contemporary Arts Center) and prominent facade make it highly visible and rapidly famous. As such, you'll find a very young, slick crowd - both sitting at and serving the tables. Yet the feel is anything but stuffy. The wait staff wears tshirts and the music is lively (especially downstairs). Crowds will often be well dressed if they're going to a show, but feel free to dress down (within reason - leave the holy jeans at home). I'm also biased against tequila, but they do make a mean margarita.
(4)Alfonso L.
PROS: Great location and I managed to find a parking space late on a Friday night right in front **Awesome decor, sat upstairs not at a table (there was a 30 min wait) but at the end of the bar **Salsa served with delicious fresh, slightly salted chips. Salsa was tomato-ey and had a nice smoky finish **Incredible chile mango margarita ($10). The waiter had to ask me if I had had spicy drinks before. I lied. What a great drink! The fresh mango puree mixed with the chile de arbol (yes!) and the excellent tequila made for a zesty and punchy drink. I could have had way more than just that one. **I passed on the Mex mac and cheese but it sounded really good **Instead I went for the pork chile verde, which was a "cazuela", served in a iron dish, along with some fluffy rice. The pork was tender, just a tad bland (in seasoning) but the tomatillo sauce was very good. It seemed to have too many poblano chile slices mixed in the braise, but overall I would order it again. **The frijoles charros were delicious. I ordered them on the side and even stuck some chips in it to soften them up. **Dessert would have been the tres leches cake, but alas I passed, Maybe next time. CONS: **Way too noisy downstairs. Glad I fled that for the second floor. **The bar upstairs had some hipsters with loud voices, trading dumb work stories way too loud and also sampling tequilas. It's a tad hard to get the bartender's attention when you're there for the food. **Mexican food really isn't that expensive, or it shouldnt be. $19 for the cazuela? Come on, this isn't Rick Bayless's place --it's so not at that level, but it's decent **Tortillas do not seem to come with the orders. How then, does a person eat the cazuelas? Just with a knife and fork? Come on. I had to order them and that took a little while. But the quality was good. You know --I never even checked if they charged me for them. Ugh. **There was a very needless ramekin of sour cream or crema that came with the cazuela. This doesnt make it authentic at all. This just makes it more Tex Mex (yeah, a negative) and made the tortillas then even more wanting. All in all, a very good place --for Cincinnati and I would definitely go back.
(4)Chris P.
We were there as a group on a business trip. The service was great and the drinks were also very good. I had the pink grapefruit margarita and enjoyed it very much. Now what stood out for me was the Baja Fish Tacos. They were light and delicious the just the right amount of guacamole, cabbage and pico de gallo. (Good guacamole too if you just want it with chips.)
(4)Patricia V.
On Fri Sept 23 we had a wonderful dining experience at Nada. We arrived around 9:30pm, and the hostesses indicated there would be a 1 and 1/2 hour wait, so we enjoyed cocktails at the bar upstairs. Our bartender was speedy and our drinks were fantastic. My friend especially loved the sparkling sangria and my caipirinha was perfect. Within 20 minutes, we were seated much earlier than estimated. Our server Chris was courteous and delightful. He did a superb job describing all of the cazuelas, so I ordered the cazuela tasting based off his enthusiastic recommendation - it was utterly delicious! He even suggested a specific hot sauce to go with my friend's dinner too. Though I do not live in Cincinnati, I will be sure to dine at Nada every time I'm in town.
(5)Lee B.
I think Nada is a fantastic spot. It's perfect for a first date, a dinner with the girls, or a place to start the night with an out of town guest. Now thinking about it, I've also taken my mom there...so it really is a great spot to take just about anyone. It is somewhat pricy, but in my mind it's worth the price, and you can easily order from the taco menu and be just as full and satisfied as you would ordering one of the more expensive entrees. The drinks are an added perk as well. The last time I was at Nada, I ordered a sparkling sangria, which was so delicious that it disappeared a little too quickly. The atmosphere is very fun and inviting. In the summer, sitting outside beneath the hanging lights and spending time with friends is a perfect way to start or end the evening.
(5)Ben S.
Wow! Gave my little lady friend from rural clermont county a taste of the city life by coming to Nada New Years Eve night. The city was packed so we thought we didn't have a chance but we tried and had an hour and a half wait (not bad, all things considered). Finally got a seat at nada around 9:30pm. They phoned me when it was ready, very considerate of them. The place was still crowded as could be at 9:30, people still filing in. The atmosphere is very cool. I love the steps, the chandelier, everything. Ate upstairs. The tables are about 2 feet from each other- be prepared. It's VERY intimate- not with your date, but with the person sitting directly next to you- basically touching shoulders the entire night. Your date will seem miles away. The service is very good. They don't have a lot of space to work with, but they usually don't reach over heads to get to you- and when they do, they get out of the way quickly. The food is terrific. Shared the fajitas. Never had fajitas quite like this, but they were flavorful and wild and unexpected. I'm not going to spoil it for you, But I seriously suggest the fajitas. The noise level is a little high, but it was NYE night, so it might have been the occasion. I really enjoyed nada and I think you will too. Don't bring the kids, dress to impress and if it's the weekend, prepare to wait!!
(4)Rachel P.
Food, 5 stars. Started with the queso dip which was smokey and delicious. The macaroni and cheese is amazing. The poblanos give it great flavor. My pork belly tacos were the best tacos I've ever had. Nice slab of pork belly that melts in your mouth and pairs perfectly with guacamole and whatever sauce they use. My complaint is service, thus the 2 star rating. I had two drinks. The second one I ordered I had to send back. It tasted completely different and was even a different color. I nicely asked for another and was treated by our waitress like it was my fault. Her tone was extremely condescending and she made unnecessary comments about it. I then asked her if she could break a 10 for the parking garage. She told me she would have to check and see if they had change. When she brought it back she interrogated me as to why I needed it broken down and even asked, "doesn't the parking garage have change?" I was shocked. When she walked away my friends and I looked around like wtf? I'm not sure what was going on with this lady but she did not handle anything that rocked the boat well. Maybe it was an off night for her. Definitely go for the food. Since I've only been there once I can't compare service to another experience.
(2)Sarah M.
I think Nada was over-hyped for me. On a business trip to Cinci I scooted in for lunch before flying out again, and while the service was very good, the overall effect was a little disappointing. Nice enough atmosphere and very good service, but the carnitas tamal was tame and insufficient for the meal. I was looking for wow, and got... meh. Perspective helps though: this was Cincinnati, not Santa Fe. So yes, it was PDG for Cinci - I would probably go back. And it seemed to be quite the hot spot for Cinci, so more power to it.
(3)Emily E.
Again, like a lot of my reviews, I will say that this place is good. The food, the booze, all good. The price... is a bit much for a taco. That's my only qualm. ... The location is right by the Arnoff, so it's great for a pre-show bite. I would highly recommend coming during happy hour, as the prices are much more reasonable!
(3)Chris V.
This place has it all,great atmosphere, friendly staff and awesome food.We loved it!
(5)Marcie M.
Still....still amazing. I mean, just amazing! I am so happy this is A) still here b/c it's been YEARS since I've been back and B) still sooooooooo good. Our guac was fresh and tasty (though not enough of it), service at the bar was on par and very friendly! We loved our woman server with the nose ring. She was super cute and fun on a Saturday afternoon. The tacos --- oh the short rib and carnitas. Oh so good. I think for the lunch portion, the price is a little high -- as I though we would get three for $12-$14 bucks but no, just two (that's why it's not five stars). That being said, the short rib is SOOOO freakin' fabulous. The butternut squash soup was simply divine. I wanted to drown myself in it. For the record, this place seems to ALWAYS be busy. I was really (pleasantly) surprised! That is always soooo impressive especially after several years of being open. People keep coming back, clearly. Very cool. Oh -- I had a drink with blanco tequila and grapefruit of some kind and it was delish! I have to say it was a great way to start our trip to Cincy. I was very pleased and happy to introduce you to my hubby! I've been sharing with him for years that this is my favorite "fancy Mexican place" and you didn't disappoint! More please. In Indy please. Plllllllllllease? OK, no probably not. Boo.
(4)Ryan D.
This is my ultimate, most delicious, favorite classy Mexican place EVER. Disclaimer: if you are looking for your run of the mill, be it DELICIOUS, Mexican restaurant for the cheap drinks and regular food, check out another place Now lets get back to NADA!! the Drinks: ARE DELICIOUS! Homemade, strong, grgeous, a bit expensive but honestly worth every penny. Every time I go in we get a pictcher which is the same price as 4 drinks, but fun fact you get 5 drinks out of it so its like they are giving away drinks! (kinda.) the Tacos: Oh my goodness, they are incredible. I love the Carnitas tacos for the freshness of the guacamole on top as well as the corn tortillas that are soooooo fresh. This is my go to order but everyone else I know has their own favorite and swears by it, I honestly dont think you can go wrong with any of them. Fun fact #2, you can get a single taco of any on the menu, just ask the waiter. the Service: unmatched. They take their time to be personable and classy, helpful and knowledgeable while still being fun. Personal story: the last time we were in, one of our party is strictly Gluten Free/Vegetarian and they changed the oil on the spot to make fresh chips that could not possibly have any cross contamination with meat or and gluten. WHO DOES THAT?!? Nada does. Come here, you will thank me later and EVERY time you decide to come back.
(5)Meghan Q.
You must get the ceviche!! It's amazing! They don't hold back on the fresh seafood, shrimp, octopus, calamari, and mussels, with a spicy circus broth, and then finished with a avocado moose! Complement with a margarita! You cannot go wrong!
(5)Stacy P.
Whenever I find myself in downtown Cincinnati, I always seem to make my way to Nada for drinks and a bite to eat. While Nada doesn't have a separate gluten free menu or label what items can be modified to be GF, the staff does a good job working with you on determining what items can be altered to be so. One of the best things is that Nada can make their chips GF and they signify that the chips are GF by placing a Mexican flag toothpick on the chip basket. The food as a whole is good. Expect to pay more than what one would expect for Mexican food, but it higher end restaurant. This place can get noisy and can be extremely busy. If you wish to eat at a certain time, I would make sure to make reservations in advance. If you time it right, you can snag a seat at the lower or upper bar and avoid the wait. One of the best things about Nada is that is within less than a 10 minute walk from a majority of the hotels downtown, and it is open until 10 PM S-Thr.
(3)Jen I.
My co worker and I had lunch here - very hip Mexican restaurant! We started with the Guacamole and it was spot on. My co worker was disappointed they didn't have anything with Mole sauce on it and ended up getting the chicken and corn enchiladas - he said they were very good. I got the Tinga Poblana Cazuela - it was delicious and I would get it again! Enjoy!
(4)Veronica V.
My sister invited me and my mother to this place for brunch and I was like mexican for breakfast? weird but whateves - love mexican. This place is more like a mexican flare not authentic mexican fooods. WOW!!!!!! this place is amazing. Very cool interior (two levels) Outside seating. Bummer for us it was raining when we went. First you get a yummy drink with a splash of alcohol. I had a blood orange something, was good. Chips and Salsa - Salsa was not spicy at all. Still good. Boca Fries - yum.. I asked for a little side of the green diablo sauce - it was just heavy black pepper taste. Nothing we order was spicy (to me) I ordered pork belly tacos, my mom got Huevos Rancheros, and my sister eggs benedicto (this seems to be very popular looking around the room) Everything was so good. I would definitely go back!
(4)Aaron R.
Nada was highly recommended to me so while in Cincy had to try it. Had an amazing experience at Nada today. It is definitely upscale Tex-Mex, and the prices reflect that. While the house margarita is batch pre-made it is very good. Don't totally love having to pay for chips and salsa but at $2 it's not a big deal. Pork Belly tacos were to die for, so flavorful in themselves, almost makes one wonder what black magic they use to make them so delightful. Also tried the Barbacoe tacos and they were really amazing as well. Johnny my bartender was very helpful, and had good recommendations on tequilas. The glassware is all custom blown and each glass is slightly different. Despite living 70-80 miles away I will be back.
(5)Ana M.
This place is good but I've had better Mexican food for much cheaper. However, I LOVE LOVE LOVE their Mac n cheese. It's spicy and delicious. If you like Mac n cheese I suggest you try theirs. Otherwise, everything else is just decent.
(4)Kamya D.
The menu has a small selection of food but there is alot of drinks to choose from. The host are great the server took forever to take my order..the place it clean in a way. The music is ok . The lunch rush is ok not that many people. I was the only in the place with no chips and salsa....i ordered a grilled chicken and rice the chesse and tomatos made the whole meal cold that was unacceptable to me.. I wouldn't eat here again but the drinks are the only thing i enjoyed.
(3)John S.
Outstanding food and very attentive service! A+++
(4)Tiffany D.
My fiancé and I LOVE Mexican. Nada is a pretty good upscale Mexican restaurant. We had the Corn and Chicken Enchiladas. We also love Enchiladas and get them at almost every Mexican restaurant. I have only been to Nada once or twice but my fiancé has been there several times and says overall the food is good.
(4)David B.
Overall, pretty good. You definitely over pay for the "cool place to be" location, but it is unique fresh food. We had the guacamole and the salsa trio for appetizers and they were both very good. The tortilla chips are great too. I got the pork belly tacos which were fantastic and my wife got the chicken and corn enchiladas which were also very good. Nothing mind blowing, but pretty good. I would recommend.
(4)Marilynne C.
good drinks and decent food very trendy hard to get a table too
(3)Calvin C.
Nada is a high-end Mexican place in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. I usually don't come here specifically for the food but its a great meet-up place for business or for fun. On my al-pastor/value ratio, they are average as the al-pastor is pretty decent but the tacos are pretty expensive ($20 for 3 tacos). The drinks/beer menu is quite extensive and can cover pretty much everyone's tastes. During brunch, the pork belly tacos are really recommended. If you are craving a nice place to have drinks with a great atmosphere, this is a great place to go. If you're looking for a true Mexican taste, there are better places to go.
(3)Maggie B.
This place has some amazing Mexican and Mexican fusion dishes. The Short Rib Sopes are amazing and taste just like Mexico. They are crispy and flavorful. The gazpacho is fantastic. I have never been much of a dam but I crave this one. The flavors are perfectly pairs. The tomato base is refreshing, the corn and peppers add complexity, the touch of yogurt makes it creamy, and the croutons give a fantastic crunch. The Mexican Mac and Cheese is a great comfort food. Perfect texture, Not mushy in the least with great pepper flavors. The chips are multilayered and addictive. Try them with the guac and the creeper salsa. It is spicy but with such a delicious flavor that you can't stop eating it. The Chicken enchiladas are also quite tasty. I would steer away from the tacos. They are ok but not as good as Others.
(4)Sara H.
Good food. Chicken was tender and well seasoned. Sangria was amazing. Went out of my comfort zone and got a chili mango margarita and was disgusting!!!
(3)Rick S.
Okay! Let's get this straight. Nada has a cool vibe. Lots of pretty people coming in and out. It's location is great. Next door to theater. Across the street from a hip hotel. A museum at the other corner. The center of the city, Fountain Square, just a block away. All good. But, it this the best Mexican food I've ever eaten? Nope! It's good, for sure, but the new menu is pretty limited. You'd best be in the mood for tacos. Nada is fun and a good place to hang with friends, but it only rates an "OK" if you're comparing it to Mexican food, say, from Texas or southern Cali.
(3)Teri D.
I was not impressed...as a matter of fact I was a bit miffed! The food itself wasn't too bad. The cheese dip was rather good as was the fish tacos ($12.00) The small mixto salad was reasonably priced at $6.50 and hit the spot so why the low score? Our server! Dude was many places but not often at our table. We had to wait to flag him down several times for water and refills on the water and we really had to wait for him to get the bill to us even after we asked for it. No bueno!
(2)Jim D.
Rude reception. Almost nonexistent wait staff. At least the food was good. Guacamole was excellent. Fish tacos were very good. Service was so bad I won't be back.
(3)Tommy L.
This place is the pinnacle of restaurants. Great service, great location, great atmosphere, and the greatest food I have had in the greater Cincinnati area. I've been here on two occasions. On the first, we sat outside on a beautiful night and I ordered salmon tacos. On the second occasion, we sat inside near the window on a rainy evening; I enjoyed the yucatan chicken. Both experiences exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend ordering guacamole to start with. It's some of the best guacamole I've had to date. Also, if you go there on your birthday you get a free plate of churros for dessert. I will definitely return here again to try some of the other delicious dishes!
(5)Damian C.
Churros. My co-workers RAVED about the churros. Like, for many weeks leading up to our work trip all I heard about was how this place has the best churros known to man. I have had churros once. Here. And yes, they do not disappoint. Light, fluffy, crunchy, sugary. Mmm. Solid. Dessert usually isn't my thing but these are definitely worth saving room for. And don't skip over the chile-mango margarita. Is caliente your bag? Then this concoction is for you. Truth be told, it's not as spicy as advertised by the waitress and the food runner. But maybe I have a high tolerance? Bonkers. We started with the Mexican mac and cheese. This was muy bueno, albeit a bit small. Sharing among 4 people allowed a small taste as opposed to a large indulgence, so order wise and order more. My spice-sensitive co-worker found it to have some kick while I longed for a bit more burn. The other three shared three types of tacos while I, the fourth, settled on the chicken and corn enchiladas. They were absolutely scrumptious. Like, absolutely scrumptious x 10. The fregula was a nice touch and the sauce was perfectly flavored. I liked the twist on a meal that can generally be so deliciously boring. At $19, it was a bit expensive, considering there were no beans and rice on the side (??!??!), but the silver lining was that I had plenty of room for dessert. The decor was fun, the restaurant was bustling, and, overall, great service. I spotted a fire pit outside... if only it would have been warm enough to dine al fresco! Add it to your CInci list - I'm a fan!
(4)Rachel M.
Great food, great margaritas, great service! Ask for Barb - her menu recommendations are the best!
(5)Maya S.
Decided to go on a hot date and ended up at Nada... So glad we did, the food was so freaking good! I recommend the chips, salsa, & guacamole !!!! I had the shrimp taco, fish taco, and chicken taquitos , I was very pleased !!! My date had the salmon taco , shrimp taco, and veggie taco .... She love everything but wasn't happy with the veggie taco !!!!! I'm looking forward to coming back !!!!
(4)Jill N.
3-1/2 stars. Pretty good happy hour specials. My friend ordered the macaroni and cheese which I tasted and it reminded me of velveeta shells with cayenne pepper stirred in. I don't think I would ever order that myself. But their barbacoa tacos are excellent. This place can get ridiculously, ear-ringingly loud when it gets crowded which is most of the time. But overall it's pretty solid and while I don't go to Nada that often, every now and then it really seems to fit the bill for certain occasions.
(3)Eli D.
We had the pork enchiladas and the pork belly tacos. The hostess was extremely welcoming. The enchiladas were ok, but I've had better. The pork belly tacos, however, were awesome. Our server was very nice and prompt, without being intrusive. The food here is ok, definitely, but the environment / atmosphere of this place I think is the big draw. It's a fun place, and is an especially fun place to dine during the spring and summer months. 3.5 stars for the food, but 4 overall for the experience.
(4)Amy B.
If you haven't done brunch at Nada you MUST get your rear in gear! Nada brunch is best enjoyed Sunday right as they open around 10:30. You can't go wrong with huevos rancheros and a house made bloody maria. Or if that's got too much kick for you then your sweet tooth will be quite content with the french toast. Of course you can't forget the brunch bevy, so pick out the sparkling blood orange or the velvet underground which are both made with fresh fruit puree! Is it brunch time yet?
(4)Joel B.
I went here with my family for my brother's birthday a year ago, and then again with friends last month. Both times the service and food was perfect. Unique, high quality, takes on classic mexican dishes, with every plate being carefully created, but still inviting. The prices are high for some pretty simple ingredients, but the execution explains part of that. I might need more experience to give it a 5th star, but it's pushing for it already.
(4)Karen L.
Delicious gourmet Mexican. My only complaint is that it's a tad expensive. Fantastic handmade tortillas, and the house-made sorbets and ice creams were out of this world! We came for brunch on Sunday after church and loved it. The decor is beautiful, too, and includes some authentic Mexican furniture and handicrafts. If I had to choose one word the restaurant, I'd call it eclectic. Fresh Mexican with a modern twist.
(4)Billy G.
Such a weird thing to rave over, but the sliders are the best cheeseburgers I've ever had in my life. We all live in this great country and have had many a cheeseburger in our time. It is hard to find one that knocks your socks off. Put socks on and go try them out. Great drinks, great waitstaff. Thanks for a great evening.
(5)Amy N.
Pretty enjoyable meal! A few details.... Love the ambiance here, really open, colorful & bright. The downside was the loud music, which to this decidedly not-hip-anymore-girl was too club like, and not dinner friendly. The four of us had a hard time conversing over our meal. Excellent salsa to go with the chips (you have to purchase the chips & salsa, btw), but the chips were kinda greasy for my liking, very salty too. Loved the guacamole, but the very small portion was not enough for these four hungry gringos, so we ordered a second serving. $7 bucks a pop. My vegan eyes hit on the vegetarian tacos right away, so I ordered those without the cheese. Wow, they were really good! This looked like a very simple dish, but the flavors were amazing. The veg tacos are made up of grilled Portobello mushrooms, beans, rice, guacamole, and pico de gallo. I would go back for these! My dinner mates ordered fish tacos, vegetarian tacos, and chicken tacos. All were well liked, but one comment from the chicken taco diner was that the chicken was not grilled. I'm not sure if that's how it is described on the menu, but it is what he expected. The service was very good- polite and timely. Our sever was kind enough to tell me that she thought that the tortillas may have milk in them.....this would be unusual, flour tortillas are not typically made with milk, but I must say that anytime a server is watching out for my vegan best interests, I am very appreciative. I think we'll go back & maybe sit outside next time away from the music.
(4)Matt S.
I think by now I've tried all of the tacos at Nada and I have yet to be let down--they are all fantastic. Last night I got the Crispy Pork Belly tacos, and it is definitely my favorite. This time though, my server recommend adding a fried egg to one of my tacos, and wow, absolutely delicious. Adding the fried egg took an already amazing taco and made it even better! I highly recommend it. My only issue with Nada is that they charge $2 for chips and salsa, and that if you want to mix-n-match tacos then they charge you more. 3 tacos of the same kind are $16 (more or less depending which you get), but 3 different ones are $6.50 each. However, price shouldn't be the reason to go to Nada. The best Mexican food in the city is the reason to go.
(4)Liberty S.
I went to Nada for brunch, and discovered a whole new genre of brunch. I was so excited! I ordered the Tinga and Egg Cazuela. It had tons of flavor and was beautifully presented. However, I didn't really know if I wanted to eat it with a fork or put it in the provided tortillas. I ate it both ways and was happy and no one gave me weird looks. The staff throws leftover water in the plants surrounding the patio and were very good humored. It's great!
(4)Chris K.
My wife and I came for our 13th Anniversary. The service was outstanding, and the food was phenomenal. And the price wasn't that much more than a "typical" Mexican Restaurant, but the atmosphere and menu are head and shoulders above those other places. Highly recommended. We will most definitely be back.
(5)Kimberly M.
Excellent service, and food was very tasty. my only complaint is that it's overpriced for the portions that you get.
(3)Not Your Average ..
We came here before a show at the Aronoff center, and the atmosphere and our server were very kind. The food however, was completely over salted. We were starving and ordered so much, close to $100 and we couldn't' finish our food, paid and left to go to another restaurant.
(2)Jackie C.
I am a BIG mexican fan so i am especially hard on this type of restaurant/food I will say this place gets a 5 for decor. SOOOOO cute and trendy- loved the outdoor patio and all the colors! Now to the food. The guac was super soar. Like too much lime & salt. My tongue and the roof of my mouth started to get raw bc of it. And the chips were horrible. It tasted like an entire bottle of salt was dumped on the smashed chips they served. Drinks were decent. Small yet tasty. Prob the best part of the meal. Food. I got the baja fish tacos and my friend got the chicken. Super basic and small. They give you three tiny tacos- more of the gourmet style (not a fan). Again, very sour. Too much lime AGAIN! The flavors were all very bland. Mex and bland do not go together so i was again, disappointed. I heard bakersfield is GREAT- should have stopped there for dinn instead- def wont be coming back to nada next time i am in town :(
(2)Jennie K.
Most generous and thoughtful wait staff on EARTH. Please read! 1) Hubs and I are visiting from Seattle, needing bomb Mexican food- Nada delivered on multiple fronts. Chips are like crack, without the deleterious side effects like divorce, lowered inhibition or rehab. Guac, yes please. Tacos that made me feel like I was back in SoCal. Food at Nada = 100% yes. 2) SERVICE = above and beyond. Not only was everyone personable, from the gentleman who sat us, to Aaron who served us to Trevor who brought our food out and may have been the GM the way he was greeting tables, dining experience above and beyond. 3) THE ZINGER!!! Hubs and I leave the restaurant and find the gentleman host standing outside looking for someone. Hubs says, "oh man, looks like someone left on their bill" and then Trevor comes running out of the restaurant after us, with a pint of Graeter's ice cream in hand: THEY GOT US ICE CREAM to welcome us to Cincinnati. Seriously? Can a restaurant be any more thoughtful? They wanted to give us a taste of the city, and there is no way that when we come back, Nada won't be on our Must Visit list. THANK YOU everyone at Nada! Best way to end our very special trip.
(5)Samantha M.
I'm not sure why I'm not giving five stars. Fourth time here and consistently delicious. Tonight, the service was so outstanding. Megan is a fantastic bartender and for me to say that it means A LOT. Do not miss this place if you are in Cincinnati!
(4)Holly B.
Friendly service. Nice atmosphere. food was fast and very tasty! Cocktails were perfect!
(4)Steph H.
I have never written a Yelp review before, although I use this app like crazy. I felt compelled to give a huge shout out to nada, and most importantly, to its staff. This past weekend I had brunch with some friends, and one of them had a medical emergency. Our server, Lydia, had already been super friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, making sure I knew the eggs benedicto with crab did not have lump crab meat, causing me to change my order. During this medical emergency, she was unobtrusive, while asking what we needed from her....really the epitome of what you'd want in such a situation. She even ran downstairs and got us two pillows. The GM, Christopher Todd, was also extremely helpful in the situation, coordinating with the Aronoff Center for a wheelchair. Without a word and without our table noticing, they had brought up our meals to the table, and silently whisked them away when they saw what was happening so we didn't have to deal at that moment. They remade the meals of those of us who remained without asking (telling us they didn't want us eating cold food), and covered the cost of the meals and drinks from the two who had to leave due to the emergency. Words can't express the level of professionalism, but also just being great and real human beings in a time of crisis. Nada, your staff rocks, and I would hope yelp readers take this piece into consideration when they think of who deserves their money! As far as the food...always delicious! I'm obsessed with their chips & guac, and every brunch item I've eaten has been fantastic. The Bloody Marias are super tasty (and strong!), and of course, there are the margaritas. I'll be there again this weekend for a bridal brunch my sister is throwing! Love this place, the atmosphere, and the service and staff. You guys rock!
(5)Karen B.
THIS IS MY FAVORITE PLACE! Between prickly pear margaritas, chips and guac and their a la carte tacos, I always have an amazing meal! It's a great restaurant in a great location in downtown Cincinnati. Two stories of beautiful classy ambiance, this Mexican restaurant surprised me when I moved here. I didn't expect a place in this town to have such delicious Mexican food and put a fancy twist on it. The guac is probably the best GUAC (yes I will keep calling it that) I've ever had and their chips that accompany them are top notch. It's addicting and now that I'm thinking about it, I'm salivating ... Their baja fish tacos with slaw, limo and guac are absolutely the best I've ever had. I only order that when I go there but recently they told me I could venture out a bit and do them a la carte. What? I tried the pork belly tacos and I'm torn. Buttery, melt in your mouth goodness wrapped in a tortilla. YUM-MEE! Get a prickly pear margarita and indulge yourself. It's an experience well worth the price I think. Definitely a great gem of a restaurant in downtown that I don't see going anywhere anytime soon. If it does, I'm moving ... :)
(5)Aly S.
The waitress quoted us 45 minutes and we sat down within 15. We had margaritas while we waited which were delicious. For dinner, we had several items to share (which is a method I recommend if you have a few people), the most memorable being the pork belly tacos. I mean, I daydream of these things since having them. They were SOO delicious. Our server was very attentive and gave us recommendations as we asked. We had a bottle of red wine with dinner and bourbon for dessert! All around a fun place to spend some time, celebrate, eat and drink.
(5)Andrew N.
I've been to Nada several times now and the atmosphere has always been very easy going and hip and I have yet to have food that disappoints. There seems to be a trend in this city where all good restaurants have pork belly on their menu, and Nada sits comfortably in that category. Their pork belly tacos come each with a generous slab of pork belly. 3 tacos sounds diminutive, but I usually find myself struggling to polish them off, especially when I've started the night with a beer or two and their chips and guacamole- which are thankfully a far cry from the store bought chips and salsa you might find at other places. If I'm in the mood for something lighter, I go for their fish tacos which are also excellent. Service has been pretty consistent throughout; this last time was a bit slow, but seeing as we had a party of 16 I think its more than okay to forgive them on that front. All in all, it's not necessarily authentic, but its definitely an interesting take on Mexican cuisine and a great place to unwind with friends. There is little in this world better than good food and good company, both of which are easy to come by at Nada.
(4)Carol J.
The restaurant's decor is very nice, the attention is good, the food is not really outstanding, and the prices are very expensive.To be honest, I will not return to this place again.
(2)Holly P.
The margaritas are great. Food is really good. You must try their macaroni app. Has a little bit of a bite (jalapeno peppers), but really good. The inside is modern but still comfortable. Their outdoor dining area is just perfect. A little pricier than a lot of the restaurants I frequent, but this is definitely a nice splurge. Food itself isn't that pricy, but with a couple margaritas, dinner and an app, I racked up about a $50 bill for just myself.
(4)Ariana S.
Came to Cincinnati on a business trip and Nada caught my eye, mainly due to its lovely outdoor seating area on a day that happened to be in the 70's. Being new to the city (and after a day of making decisions), I decided to let my knowledgeable server make all the choices for me. Started off with the guacamole & salsas and the chile arbol margarita. YUM! I probably could have left satisfied at this point but on to the main course!!! Chicken and corn enchiladas were to DIE FOR! Served in a skillet and smothered in cheeses and sauce, I was in heaven. Definitely kept eating past the point of fullness. Nada was definitely a good choice as the food and drink (and service & ambience) all were top-notch. Add to it the fact my dinner guest was straight from Mexico city and was just as pleased as myself....All in all, I give you 5 stars dear Nada.
(5)Caroline C.
Sit at the bar! Nada has some of the most knowledgable and friendly bartenders in Cincinnati. The Mojito seemed to be the popular drink choice of the night, but I recommend the Caipirinha. Question about a menu item? The bartenders are happy to answer about the dishes as well as the drinks. The queso fundido is delicious and savory (includes caramelized onions and chorizo) and the mexican mac 'n cheese is also ridiculously good (and spicy!) If you're feeling bad about all the cheese you ate as a starter, then try the mahi tacos - they are surprisingly light.
(4)Sarah L.
Nada is fantastic. It certainly is not cheap, but that's what La Mexicana is for (awesome divey Mexican). I've tasted most of the menu and almost everything is truly impeccable. Only exception, despite popular opinion, is that the fish tacos can sometimes be a little tough and fishy. All the braised meats are outstanding, salsa is fantastic, chips, guacamole, drinks. And it's one of the few places in town where you can get pork green chili. (The Rookwood is another). We've tried brunch once and found it to be delightful as well. In fact, Nada is one of the few places that offers a mimosa at a lower price than a glass of sparkling wine, which I think is the right way to price.
(5)Rebecca J.
I agree with everyone else, the food is great and overpriced. I mean, $14 for three tacos and that's all folks. WhaaT? They could at least throw a side in there. But I'm not here to gripe, I do enough of that. What I wanted to share is my most recent discovery. If you like hot and I mean freaking hot, ask for the spicy salsa. I wish is it was a little less spicy, but the flavor was rich, bold and had a long finish. I asked what was in it and apparently they won't say, top secret. I'm going to see if I get lucky next time. From what I could tell, it was a mixture of corn, cilantro, habanero, garlic and lime. Total awesomeness, and not listed on the menu foodie friends. Oh and did I mention mashed plantains? I thought I liked them best fried, well not any more.
(4)Joyce J.
If this place were in a different city in Ohio, it would have gotten five stars; 6 stars for the food, minus one star for being pricey. And since we are in Cincinnati and not in any other town, we will maintain a high standard. The food is excellent, no doubt. I have always enjoyed the creative Mexican food more than the traditional bean and rice. The ceviche here was decent. The cazuela (clay pot) sampler was quite filling. The the service was slightly slow. Overall, a very pleasant experience.
(4)Brandon S.
Sure, I could talk about Nada's hip, upscale atmosphere. I could talk about their drinks (who doesn't love a well made caipirinha?). I could even talk about their fantastic selection of tacos.... but no. I logged in tonight to talk about one thing: their Mexican Mac & Cheese. Simply put, it haunts my dreams. I sometimes wake up in a cold sweat, the taste of a perfectly melted blend of cheeses lingering on my tongue and the perfect hint of spiciness cutting through all that warm, gooey goodness. And it is in those moments that I know won't be able to go one more day without carving out a chunk of time to experience quite possibly the best mac and cheese I have ever had the pleasure of tasting. Even if every other item on the menu was bland (it's not) and the staff treated you like second class citizens (they don't) it would still be worth checking this place. Do yourself a favor and make it to downtown Cincinnati to try it for yourself. You won't regret it.
(5)Camilo O.
4.5 stars, really. Everything I've had here has been great, especially the brisket tacos. I've heard wonders about the chicarron tacos as well (I believe that's pork belly?), but I'm yet to try them. Oh, and the Sopes appetizer is freakin' awesome. Having said that, I think they're a little on the pricey side. I also don't care too much for their bar. I've had cocktails here on two occasions and I've never really wanted to since. Overall: Food = Great Drink = Meh Will be back.
(4)Leisa W.
NOTE: This review is about LUNCH. For dinner, I give them 2 stars for obnoxiousness. OK, so now the disclaimer is out of the way... For lunch, this place is lovely. if you hit it on a nice day, you can sit outside (as we did) and eating outside makes me happy. The chips were good but a bit greasy on the day I went, that can happen from time to time and no biggie. I had the carnitas tacos and they were DIVINE, and the guacamole was good also. I didn't drink since it was a lunch meeting, so I can't tell you about the margaritas. But, overall the experience was a nice one (though a tad on the pricey side for lunch. It's for special lunches, in my opinion). The location is fantastic, a block from Fountain Square and across from the CAC, so that's a big bonus. For dinner though, I don't want to be within 30 feet of this place. After dark (I don't know the specific time), it turns into something like a nightclub, with super loud music and hosts with attitude. If I'm eating, I want to be able to digest my food...and it can't be done with music like that.
(4)Tracy J.
Another visit to Nada, and it remains on the top of my list for Cincinnati dinning. I rarely give 5's out, Nada deserve one. The food is always perfect, the service is great. The only negative is I cannot get a sampler of multiple tacos on the same plate, it is really dificult to pick my favorite. I recommend the guacamole and any of the tacos, my top 3 are the fish, chicken and carnitas tacos.
(5)Ryan B.
The menu is quite small, but what I have tasted of it has proved how right this restaurant does its dishes. The chips and salsa, the guacamole, the iron skillets of chicken and chorizo, and especially the mashed plantains will leave you craving for more. And the white sangria was oh-so cool and refreshing. But, the prices. I will not frequent this place due to the dent in my wallet after eating here.
(4)Brian B.
Went back to Nada last night and had a way better experience. Our server was fun and put up with our constant jokes with a smile and the bus boy even cleared our table while wearing a luchador mask. As before, the food was top notch. The only thing keeping this place from a 5 star review is the price. I'm glad i went back and gave the service another chance!
(4)Badger M.
Gluten Free heaven--our waitress understood my dietary needs, and knew the menu & ingredients thoroughly. When We asked about the tortilla chips that come from the salsa, she noted that they were all cornmeal, but were fried in oil that was used for wheat products. "usually," she said, "we fry a gluten-free batch in separate oil" (!) They hadn't done that the night I was there, but they kept an emergency bag of GF chips on hand. I had the lamb mole with spaghetti squash, and it was excellent. Deep & complex flavor, not just heat, squash neither too crunchy or overdone. Thumbs up!
(5)Rob J.
A definite recommend when passing through Cinci. The fish tacos go down swimmingly with a tall margarita! Will definitely stop by again.
(4)Trisha K.
Not that Nada needs another review, but I'll be review #124. The front desk had 3 overly eager people ready to seat us. NICE! We sat down, but our chairs were less than comfortable. They were like large drums with backs. Strange looking choice, but more importantly non-functional. The water guy filled our glasses and asked if he could get us anything else to drink. We wanted a moment to look at the drink menu, so he said he'd be back. Hmm, is that our waiter or the water guy? He came back and we gave our drink order and then he asked if we wanted guacamole and salsa. Yep, he's our waiter! No introduction, no going over the menu, nada. He was very attentive and friendly throughout the meal, but at the same time seemed so...limp. Anyway, the food. NOT LIMP! O O Ohhh my gosh! We started off with the chips, salsa and guacamole. I give the house made chips a thumbs down (broke easily and greasy), but I really enjoyed the fire roasted salsa. It was excellent! I've been to Mexico twice and both times went on a tour to Chichen Itza. On the return back, the tour bus stops at another hotel where they have sink hole to swim and then they serve lunch. The pulled pork at this place was like nothing I had ever had before or since...until Nada. I ordered Carnitas Tacos and Sopes and both were phenomenal. IF I had to choose one over the other, I'd say the Sopes were my favorite. I will be back to try more!
(4)Dan M.
I was in Cincy for the first time this summer and was brought to NADA for dinner. The place is downtown, great location. Its a cool looking restaurant from the outside and is a modern two story building on the inside. We were seated upstairs, perfect view. We started off with a few margaritas, which were strong and tasty. They served chips and salsa for everyone to snack on. The server was very attentive and went over the menu carefully with each of us. I went with the Pork Green Chile dish. I thought the meat was cooked perfectly and the flavor of the dish was intense. All in all it was a great meal. It also had the right amount of kick! I was with a party of five and everyone enjoyed their meals. NADA is a great place and is definitely worth checking out when you are in Cincy.
(5)Laura H.
I went to Nada in a group of girls as part of a bachelorette party a couple weeks ago. We are all pretty low-key and basically wanted a nice place to have drinks and dessert and chill for a little bit. We were seated right away, but the place wasn't at all dead, even though it was a wednesday night. It was a quiet enough that we could talk, but definitely had a fun atmosphere. The staff was awesome and even gave us a free drink for the bride. A couple of us got sangria, which was really good, but what I would really go back for was the mojitos. Seriously. Writing this is making me want to get in my car and drive there right now, and I am now 2 states away. So good. Anyway, when we decided to leave, it had started pouring outside, and we were parked a few blocks away, but we decided to go for it anyway. When we got outside, one of the guys working inside was out there and grabbed a huge (read: HEAVY) patio umbrella and offered to walk us to our car. He took us 3-4 blocks before we decided to just run for it since we were all pretty wet anyway, and he refused to let us even tip him. So... mysterious Nada man is our new hero, and Nada is my top recommendation in Cincinatti. I wouldn't change a thing, even the weather.
(5)Christine B.
Went here because in passing, another couple we met on a shuttle bus raved about this place and their french toast. Normally I avoid eating carbs and something super sweet for breakfast but DANG it was soooo good. The host described it best as "french toast meets creme brulee meets bananas foster. The bread was something super special that tasted like they make it in house. It was amazing. My husband ordered the chorizo and egg enchiladas and if I was super hungry, I could have ate both meals because they were both really good. We also ordered the guac as an appetizer. We were there for brunch. My husband's bloody mary, according to him, was nothing to write home about, but I don't drink those, so who cares. The only negative was that I ordered an Irish coffee which is a pretty common drink, at least in Indiana and the Chicago area, where we're from, but both the waitress and bartender had no idea what I was talking about. She came black with black coffee, creamer, sugar packets, and a shot of baileys. It was fine and did the job, but wasn't Irish Coffee. (psst, that's what google is for). Great service and very nice outdoor seating area, restaurant is absolutely beautiful on the inside and I would imagine it's a great place for a drink at night or dinner.
(5)Vinny D.
my favorite restaurant in cincinnati. I am very picky on where/what I eat and my NYC mentality kicks in and I become very needy and wow nada hits all my spots. I have never left this place slightly unsatisfied. I have gone here for just drinks and then gone here for dinner & drinks and place always makes me feel like I'm back in NYC enjoying a great time with my friends I recommend this place to everyone and anyone who seeks my recommendation and I work at a hotel in downtown Cincinnati so a lot of people ask. LOVEEE this place!
(5)Katie W.
I'm impatient. When asked to wait, my arms cross, lips quiver in pouting motion and my four-inch heels begin to tap (Yes, I'm super short, so heels are a necessary accessory in all places!). Of course, there's always an exception to the rule. It's located in downtown Cincinnati: nada restaurant. Although not recognized as a proper noun grammatically, this place has a definite vibe and citywide renown. Warm colors and fun architecture accentuate the scene where Mexican food is central. The drinks aren't bad either (Save money and order your "Nadaritas" by the pitcher. Take turns buying a round with a group. The concoction will leave you mystified in the morning, but happily so!) Sample full Mexican entrees packed with spice, color and artistic presentation, or bring in your whole passé, and feed as a group off the tapa-styled options. I'm sure I've seen everything on this menu ordered and disappointment never followed. My personal favorite is the steak fajitas. The meat is so tender and juicy; lime really infuses all the mixings to top off the experience. Why was I saying all this business about waiting? Well, it's a popular place. You can make reservations online at eatdrinknada.com/main.ht… but if you want a spot, you'll need to get them in at least two weeks prior to your big outing. You can always take a chance as a walk-in, but be prepared to hang out at the bar or seating area for at least two hours. Still unsure of whether this is a restaurant for you? If you are into finer dining, you'll appreciate the attention to detail and technique that is applied to meals - at about $25 to $30 a person. It, however, is one of those places to be, where people flock. It can be a sea of maneuvering your body, your drink and your conversations. At times it can be too much, so beware. Also, it's under the same ownership as what most would consider the best restaurant in Cincinnati, located in Oakley Square, Boca. For those not willing to shell out to experience Boca, you'll get a small taste at nada. Happy adventures with Nadaritas in-hand. Let me know your thoughts on this local hotspot!
(4)Heather J.
Nada-riffic!!!!! So my very fabulous friend Sarah and I had lunch today in downtown Cincinnati. We were supposed to go to Akash (mushroom mater is my favorite!) but she just went yesterday so the dilemma began. Where do we go?????? Rockbottom is too busy, I'm going to Via Vite next week, PotBelly is way too busy, Ingredients is too expensive for what you get...sooo... NADA!!!! God I love freakin Nada! Got the carnitas tacos - again. I always do - I wanted to do one vege and one barbacoa but they were too busy and they come from different lines - blah blah blah. This annoys me a little - I mean - come on guys - how hard is it to get two tacos at the same time? But whatever - the carnitas are amazing and they're limey and full of guacamole and I love them! I don't care that it's $2 for chips and salsa, I don't care that the bartenders have boobs bigger than my head, I don't care that the hostess had a see thru dress on and looked like a robot, I don't care that the water guy is a little creepy, I don't care that the manager is so hot that I nearly wet myself in delight every time he walks by because: I LOVE MY CARNITAS AND I LOVE MY NADA!!!!! Nada most definitely gets my 4 star - Oh my...um...wow...I need a minute here...cuz that is amazing! (Heck so does that hot manager that asked me how my lunch was on my way out - um - only would have been better if you'd been in the taco smothered in all that guacamole!!!!) Until next time...Food Hussy...OUT!
(5)Kerry M.
It's amazing! A five star review for a Cincinnati restaurant! You have no idea how happy I was to find a place that I really enjoyed during my recent trip back to Cinci. It doesn't happen often...especially when my family lives in the land of the dreaded chain restaurants. So, my mother is on a mission to impress me with restaurants around Cincinnati whenever I happen to be back in town. She takes me to different places, some of which are decent and some of which are definitely not. I am proud to say that Nada lives up to the downtown hype. Good work Cincinnati! My mom and I started with drinks at the bar. It was a Thursday evening and it was nice to see downtown Cincinnati so busy. We asked to sit outside, the weather was amazing, and easily found a place at the downstairs bar when we found out we had a 20 minute wait. No problem, their drink menu looked delicious and I was ready to taste test my way through the options. My mom ordered the blueberry limonada and I had a classic mojito. Both were divine. So much so that I had myself two. =) Plenty of liquor and lots of flavor! When we were seated at our table on the busy patio, we were quickly greeted by our server, Patrick. Can I stop here and say what amazing service we received from him? He was awesome! Thanks, Patrick, for the casual conversation, helpful suggestions, and friendly service. You were exceptional! Now, let me comment on the food. There were quite a few menu options I wanted to try, but I only had one evening and my stomach, unfortunately, cannot fit as much as I'd like to shove into it. My mother and I started with the chips, salsa, and guac. I was surprisingly pleased with the guac...and let me tell you, I am a picky guacamole eater. The chips and salsa were great too. I was thinking about trying some of the tacos, but after some convincing from Patrick, my mom and decided to share the taquitos and Mexican mac and cheese from the appetizer menu. The taquitos were really good...a great balance of flavor and the chicken was super soft and juicy. But oh my god, the mac and cheese was ridiculously amazing. Like seriously delicious! You must order it. I know it's weird to go to a Mexican restaurant and order macaroni and cheese, but you will be missing out if you don't try it. I promise. So yes, I may have only been to Nada once, but my one experience was well worth five stars. The service was excellent, I loved the funky atmosphere (and the patio was super cool), and the food was surprising and fresh. I really loved my entire Nada experience. I hope to be back on my next Cinci visit!
(5)Samia M.
Nada has a fun, hip vibe permeating throughout the restaurant. While it is not authentic Mexican food but rather a gourmet, upscale take on the cuisine, I nonetheless love Nada for their excellent fish tacos that have yet to disappoint. Not to be forgotten are the guacamole (however the chips can be way too salty) and I especially love the mashed plantains, something I had never heard of until I ate here. I recently came to Nada for a friend's birthday brunch and ordered their version of eggs benedict. It tasted good and I enjoyed the generous amount of special chipotle sauce over the eggs, however I could barely find the crab that was supposedly in the dish somewhere. Also, the portions are quite small for the price (no side potatoes? toast? anything?). I'll stick to dinner.
(4)Merritt G.
I'm in love with Nada. If someone asks me where I want to eat lunch, dinner, or go to happy hour I always suggest Nada. The chips and salsa are to die for. I almost always get the chicken tacos on corn tortillas. And every once in a while I will get the carnitas tacos. And they are melt in your mouth awesome with a ton of flavor. The atmosphere is very cool and you'll almost forget you are in Cincinnati when you are inside! And the patio is great. My only regret is moving away before they started doing Sunday brunch! I highly recommend Nada... and the sister restaurant Boca.
(5)Danny S.
Great environment and great food. Did I forget to mention awesome drinks? Want a unique experience? Try Nada!
(4)Prashant L.
Awesome food. Have good options for Spicy food for people like me.
(5)Bob F.
What's wrong with this place? Nada.... The food here is excellent, definitely a notch above the authentic mexican restaurants just because of the quality of food and service. However, whether because just because they can or because of the excellent downtown location, you will pay a little extra for this food. My favorite dish here, which is actually the only dish I've tried here, is the green pork chile. It's just not something you can get very many places around here and I absolutely love it. If you have an evening out planned for downtown Cincinnati, you really can't go wrong here either because they have an excellent full service bar with some interesting takes on the classic margarita. Just a fantastic place really.
(4)Matthew G.
Holy crispy pork belly tacos. Authentic Mexican this place is not, but it is damn good. We ordered the civiche, pork belly tacos, and the trio. The portion size is good and so are the prices for an upscale place downtown. I'm pretty sure it's a sin to eat more than one of those tacos...
(4)Patrick E.
Love this place. Great environment and good food. Very trendy Mexican restaurant. Guacamole, sliders, and Mac n cheese are the best. One of the best places to check out in Cincinnati.
(5)Kate C.
I'm probably not gonna tell you anything you don't already know about Nada. It's great for cocktails. It's great for people watching. It's great for drawing people to Downtown Cincinnati. The thing I love about Nada - their homemade tortilla chips. They're deep fried and delicious and crispy and flaky and deserved of their own rehab facility. Also great - the oyster shooter. Sometimes I don't want to eat a bunch of food. If I'm ducking in for a nip with a friend, I might order a couple oyster shooters and a cocktail and call it a night. Another thing worth pointing out: Nada's caipirinha. That drink is deliciously deadly.
(4)Mitch G.
I've never been here when it wasn't wonderful. The fish tacos are the best ever. Start out with the chips, guacamole and salsa...it only gets better from there. Take friends, sit outside and spend a couple hours under the lanterns swaying in the trees overhead with a frosty tequila. You will thank me.
(5)James S.
Went to Nada on a recent business trip to Cincinnati. I asked the concierge at the Hilton for a recommendation to a place with good Mexican food and he recommended Nada "It's out that door, one block over, turn left and go one more block. It will be the really crowded place with tables outside. It's worth the wait." He was right - it was crowded and worth waiting 15 minutes. Lots of people out enjoying the end of summer, and the outside seating is nice - great decorative tables, lanterns in the trees. Service was quick once seated, and the waiter described the foods on the menu very well, including recommendations (not just the priciest either). He gave his opinions on dishes I asked about as well. The food - the salsa was smokey and sweet, perhaps over sweet for me. The guacamole was good, but my wife makes incredible guac so it's not a fair comparison - a little more lime and jalapeno would have gone a long way though. However, the fajitas? WONDERFUL! The sirloin steak is a bit non-traditional, but was well-seasoned and tender. The accompaniments though were phenomenally tasteful additions to the fajita - white corn, portobello mushrooms, pickled red onions, rajas, poblano rice, and then some pico, sour cream, cheese, and more guacamole on the side plate. The combination was delicious, with the corn and pickled onions in particular adding some great flavors. I dined alone but I think this would be a terrific place for a fun evening with friends or as a date night - there was intimate seating for two in several places, as well as large tables.
(4)Sonny B.
Great spot to blow per diem with a larger group if you are looking for unique Mexican inspired cuisine and great drinks. The Mahi-Mahi entrée paired with a Caipirinha is my favorite. Their Mahi-Mahi tacos are good, but a bit pricey, but hey, we're using up per diem here right? Chips are nice and flaky served with a smooth salsa dip. Go here, you and your group will enjoy it and thank you for it.
(4)Nikki F.
Regular menu gets three stars and brunch gets 5 big stars. So I settled on 4. Must haves if you go to Nada: White sangria, chips and guacamole, both amazing soups, jalapeno mac n cheese, pork belly tacos. This would be plenty to share. We like to try lots of different flavors so sharing for us is fun! The reason I gave the regular menu three stars is because I feel like the items are a little overpriced for the size and ingredients of the dishes. There is a happy hour available at the bar to combat that issue. They have the taste right on! This is a really fun place to meet the girls for a drink and some appetizers after work. The atmosphere is pretty fun too.
(4)Carolyn T.
We tried to have dinner at a very well-known steakhouse down the street, but we treated poorly and decided to leave. Walking down Walnut we saw Nada and decided to give it a shot. It was amazing!! Best guacamole I have ever had, pork with green chiles was simply sublime and the caipirinha was perfectly made. Most of all the service by Ian was exemplary. He was great- humorous and welcoming. I recommend this restaurant highly. It is a lovely, modern space with great food and an attentive and hospitable staff. We had set out for a ruby and ended up with a diamond!!
(5)Trenny S.
You must get a Nadarita with whatever fabulous menu item you order. They are the best!
(4)Bari H.
All I can say is "carnitas tamal with fried egg", crazy good. O! And the gazpacho... Yummmm
(5)Patty C.
LOVE Nada - hands down, my favorite restaurant. I'm a Mexican food lover, at heart, and I think Nada has, in every category, just excelled. We've been there many times and I've never been disappointed - favorites include the guacamole, mac'n'cheese, fish tacos, carnitas and pork belly tacos! (Oh, and how can I forget the margaritas!) I love the trendy atmosphere (without being pretentious), the good service and fun bathrooms (always a plus). But, just by food and service alone, it's worth a visit!
(5)Sally Y.
Nada overall has pretty great food, but I'd day it's a little on the heavy side and on the pricier end. When I went for brunch, I had the tinga & eggs for brunch (which I realize is a heavy item to eat) but it was definitely greasy. Regardless, we went on a beautiful day and the patio area is awesome. I've also been inside for events and dinners which has always led to a great time with a fun ambience.
(3)Gary N.
The food was okay. The service was slow and lazy. I sat at the bar with only a couple other people and I had to wait until all of the waiters had everything they needed before I was even asked if I wanted anything.
(2)Greg R.
What a great spot!! We had a table for 8 and were seated outside, on a beautiful night. The server was attentive and the atmosphere was fantastic!!! Started with a few margaritas, which were excellent. Ordered appetizers (chips and salsa and a double order of guacamole). The salsa's were very tasty and fresh. I'm not a guacamole fan, so I didn't try it but heard it was delicious. Everyone's entree's were fantastic! Had a few orders of the Churro delivered for us to share for dessert. They were still warm and very light with good flavor. Next time we're in Cinci, we'll be back!!
(5)C M.
This was our third time in. Jake was great. Very quiet, but he was very professional and attentive as was the manager. Of course, we had to say hello to Lydia. She was our server the very first time we came in. As out of place as we feel in our new home in the tristate, Nada has a vibe of home. I mentioned in passing how before the end of the year I am transitioning to pescatarian to vegetarian to full on vegan by the end of the year. She came back to our table with a suggestion for my dietary needs - veggie tacos, sub kajos, add (charred) corn with a side of Kreeper salsa (no shrooms if you are like me and don't dog on the texture). Yay, Lydia for once again going above and beyond for the out of place Floridians with discerning tastes in dining!
(5)Katrina L.
Sitting outside on the patio was great. Perfect location and view of the CAC. Chips were $2 but tasted really good so I'd recommend getting them. I had a small salad that had too much avocado mashed into it - but had a good taste. I also had the short rib Sopas which tasted delicious - short rib was cooked perfectly. Service was good. Food was a bit pricey and portions were small. My friend got the tacos and they don't come with sides or anything.
(4)jenn s.
Lots of pros: - Great outdoor space with lanterns and trees - a rarity in cities - A handy valet stop right around the corner from the entrance - Delicious food. I got the salmon tacos and handed back a clean plate. It was that great! - Helpful staff and bartenders. We were newbies to bourbon but since we were so close to Kentucky wanted to try a bourbon drink. The bartender spent a good 10 minutes walking us through the different options and even history of some of the local ones If I lived in Cincinnati this place would be a go-to spot
(4)Scott M.
Trend-mexi decor is nice. You can get 3-dollar poblano rice. Prickly pear margarita on ice, comes with a ten dollar price. Despite the expense I'd go twice. Nothhhhiiiiiiiiiiiinnnnng.
(4)Tom G.
No mas to the margaritas. There is no question that Nada has excellent food. The chicken and corn enchilada was spectacular and everyone at our table was raving about what they were having but...everyone was also very disappointed with the margaritas. Maybe it was just the bartender but she should have known that too much citrus will kill any drink. Her concoction was undrinkable. Most people either switched to beer or sampled the pitcher of delicious sangria. I suggest you do the same.
(3)Samantha G.
I love this place. I have never been and not loved it. The shrimp tacos are a go to, but the last time I went I tried out the Salmon tacos and they became my new favorite. They always give me extra extra jalapeños when I go even when I just ask for a few. The margaritas are of course the highlight of this place. You can get pitchers or just single drinks of them and they have many to choose from. The Nada-rita is my favorite though. It's classic, never too sweet and never too strong. The guacamole tastes homemade and fresh and their chips are perfect (great app to share). The service is great and the environment is exactly what I like. Very open and in the middle of Downtown so it's walking distance from the Aronoff, the Banks, and local bars.
(5)Jesica L.
This is a very happening restaurant as we made reservations for 4 people less than 2 weeks away and were lucky to get in. A friend of a friend who used to live in Cincinnati recommended it for our girls night out as we were from out of town. The restaurant seems to be in a great part of town with lots of bars and lounges in walking distance. The decor wasn't as upscale as I envisioned it to be but it was still nice, just more on the casual side of things. The service was fantastic as we were seated in a few minutes and had a really attentive waitress. She helped us figure out what to order and highly recommended the Yucatan chicken which I ordered. The three of us wanted to split 3 entrees and were worried that it wasn't going to be enough food since 3 small tacos doesn't sound like a lot. It was plenty of food and I couldn't finish my meal. We also ordered guacamole with chips as an appetizer. The guacamole was delicious but the chips were too salty for my taste. The rest of the food was very tasty. I preferred the Yucatan chicken over the tacos. The food isn't authentic exactly, but it had it's own twist on Mexican food that worked. Everything is relative, so compared to the Mexican food I can get my hands on in Lexington, Kentucky, it's amazing! The drinks seemed to be a high selling point as well and complement the food really well.
(5)Heather W.
Get the mexican coffee and the huevos rancheros. Chips are delicious and they bring you specific gluten free ones. The vegetarian tacos make you not miss the meat and the margaritas are addictive.
(4)Allison B.
Love Nada! You must get the guacamole and kobe beef sliders. Simply amazing! It's one of those places you can take a client for lunch, or go for a date. Plus, it's in the heart of downtown so once you finish you can hop to a bar, or fountain square easily. Highly recommend if you've never been!
(4)Luke S.
Is the food good here? Yes Is the location one of the best in the area? Yes Is the atmosphere modern and trendy? Yes Is the service good? Yes Do I come here often? No This is a great place to impress your friends from out of town. But if I want a more affordable and delicious taqueria I will go to Django on the North side. And if I want a ridiculous amount of inexpensive Americanized Mexican food I'll go to El Rio Grande in Newport. I don't want to give this place a bad review because it is good and the place itself is very nice but it is not one of those places that I find myself at very often. If you do go I don't recommend the tacos but I do recommend ordering the creeper salsa...it's great.
(3)Kimberly J.
This was my first trip to Nada. It was a girls night out with a friend of mine that I rarely see. We made a reservation (and thank God) at the urging of another friend of mine. We were dining on a Friday night and you absolutely want to make sure to make a reservation on the weekend. This place looks so, so, cool on the outside with a really neat patio area complete with fired pit- like areas. However, the restaurant itself is TINY. Oh and LOUD. Even with out reservation we were shown to an incredibly tiny table crammed next to another tiny table and couple. We ordered the salsa trio and let me just say their chips are amazing! And the green avocado based salsa will blow your mind. We both ordered tacos. Shrimp for me and pork for her. Bonus, my shrimp tacos had that awesome salsa on them! They were super fresh and very tasty. However great the food was---the service was terrible. There were next to no waiters in the place and we couldn't ever find ours. Sitting for over 10 minutes before we were greeted and never being checked on. Heck, we couldn't get our check for almost 20 minutes after we had finished! Overall--5 star food. 2 star service. And 3 star atmosphere.
(3)Camilla W.
Excellent service! I met a couple of friends here for brunch to celebrate one of their birthdays. I got my friend a tiara to wear as a joke for her birthday gift. The server picked right up on it...next thing you know he brings her a Disney Princesses cup for her water and a rose with a Disney princesses gift tag that said, "Happy birthday from the Nada kingdom." It made for an entertaining brunch that none of us will forget!
(5)Stuart G.
Great service. Neat atmosphere. Out of bounds flavor. Save room for dessert: the torte is worth it.
(5)Nathan M.
Not overly impressed. If you want to spend a lot of money for black beans, small portions and good "looking" food, this is the place for you.
(2)Mary C.
The four of us were in Cincy for a wedding, but still managed to sneak out for a few good meals. First Nada: the best Mexican food I've had in years, compares with Phoenix and Chicago. The four of us started with an order of Guacamole, Ceviche Mixto, and Butternut Squash Soup, as well as an order of Margaritas around. A good start, especially the Ceviche and the Mixto, with all passed around, For some odd reason, we each wanted a taco. We normally pick further apart on the menu. Nevertheless, we ordered tacos as follows: Shrimp, Pork Belly, Carnitas, and Cazadores. Again, all shared. Each had a different favorite, with the Shrimp and Carnitas being favorites of mine. The Pork Belly was very good, but a bit heavy with the amount of the rather large servings. And, of course, another round of a slightly different Margaritas (we were walking back to the hotel). We finished with coffee and shared a Butterscotch Flan (didn't really have room for more). Only one bad note: our server had perhaps only four tables filled upstairs where we were. The downstairs was packed. It was obvious that he wanted to get us out. He was rushing us by 8 p.m., and told us the restaurant closed at 9 p.m. When we pointed out that the posted hours were 10, he commented "oh yeah". We tipped 23%. He deserved less but the food deserved a good tip. Would definitely return.
(5)Brian M.
I am a bit biased as my wife and I were fortunate enough to have our rehearsal dinner at Nada. The staff was very helpful and attentive on that evening, and their service has never faltered ever since. There dinner is great, but I find that this has become our brunch spot. My go-to brunch selection is their Eggs Benedict with crab. Plus my wife and I always supplement that with their chips and trio of salsas, which includes the Kreeper. This is a homemade salsa that, as you may guess, has a spiciness that creeps up on you. To round the meal off, their Bloody Maria is a nice Mexican twist (with Tequila) on the traditional Bloody Mary.
(5)Joelle P.
Cincy Cindy knows her food, so whenever I'm with her (especially in her city), she orders for me. This time at Nada was no different - and I have never been so grateful that I put her in charge of all my food related decisions. I was already in a good mood due to the beautiful weather and fun company, plus we were sitting on their great porch, just people watching and talking - a few of my favorite things. But when my prickly pear margaritas came out, I fell a little bit in love with this place. It wasn't until the pork belly tacos come out, however, that I genuinely considered moving cities just to be closer to these tacos. I'm a pretty girlie girl (i.e. I try to be polite and have "table manners"), but I was literally licking the plate...something a laughing Cindy has brought up about 5 times since it happened...2 days ago. I literally licked the plate...me. The fussy princess. We were headed to the Taste of Cincinnati so we didn't order more than the pork belly tacos so we could save room...but I've been so impressed with the deliciousness found in Cincinatti that I'm already planning a return trip...which will definitely include pork belly tacos from Nada.
(5)Israel S.
Since most places were closed on Monday night we found Nada. This place has a great atmosphere, very friendly staff, great drinks, and really good guacamole! we did find their tortilla chips to be a bit too salty but they were quick to take them back and give us some that were less salty. I tried the pork belly tacos and they were delicious! My wife got the chicken tacos and those were also very good! I had a Prickleypear margarita that was delicious and my wife had the sparkling sangria which was equally as delicious. if you're looking for not so authentic Mexican food this is the place to go! they had a very nice bar and the crowd seemed to be on the younger end of the scale.
(4)Jordan W.
This place is very average. Trendy atmosphere and menu, sometimes it's good (pork belly tacos with an egg are amazing, to be fair) sometimes it's "eh." What is consistent, though, is the far below average service. There seems to be a lot of turn over here (I work nearby and it's convenient for an after work pit stop - I've been quite a few times). The waiters sometimes don't know the menu very well and then other times they're just rude (commenting negatively on the amount of food my dining mate ordered) Bottom line: I might come back to get a pork belly taco when the craving is too great, but I won't be back to enjoy a nice relaxing meal. There's too many other great places with great service in the area for me to waste any more money here.
(3)Jacqueline M.
This update is rather over due, but definitely needs to be done! The manager promptly contacted me after our poorly serviced evening. We arranged a time to come back for my birthday to give it another go. This was the NADA we were accustomed to. The manager was so polite and seated us over looking a large window in a secluded nook. Our waiter was OUTSTANDING. I am trying to remember his name but he was professional, quick and very nice. Management knows who he is, I believe he is the "best server" several months or quarters/years in a row. Anyway, we will only come back for this server! Our food was cooked perfectly. We shared salsa sampler, a large caesar salad, an assortment of tacos and several margaritas. I have to say my favorite was the sparkling sangria and will be my "go to" drink from now on! Well done NADA you have restored our faith! Treat everyone like this (with respect and reasonable efforts) and you will have 5 stars across the board!
(4)Brooke M.
This was my first trip to Nada and I have to agree that the food was awesome. The only disappointing part of my entire meal was that my chips for chips and salsa were all crumbs.
(5)AJ D.
Great food, great location, great concept. A staple of downtown.
(4)Ron G.
Get the mac and cheese. :) If you have time sit at the bar and chat with the bar tender. He is a wealth of knowledge about bourbons, and other liquors.
(4)Pamela F.
Great location across from CAC, but service lackluster. Many conventioneers. Mediocre food and slipshod lackadaisical table service. Bakersfield a much better vibe at 1/3 the price.
(2)Lucas W.
I've been to Nada a handful of times now and every time, I have to say, it's fantastic. Just delicious in a great atmosphere. I've started with the queso dip, the guac, and the salsa on different occasions. The queso dip is actually really good, not overly cheesy but with great flavor and clearly real cheese. Highly recommend. The salsa is more of a smoky red salsa and not overly spicy. I really like both so I found it good. The guac is, I have to say, the weakest option at Nada. It's very mediocre, served in a small plastic bowl, and there isn't that much of it. Better option is to get something else. Then go straight for the tacos. They come in sets of 3 and 3 tacos will be plenty of food. Don't even bother looking at the rest of the menu. These are some phenomenal tacos. (Maybe a bit overpriced - especially if you order them individually - but oh so delicious). Salmon Taco - Grilled salmon! Love that it's not fried like so many fish tacos. The salmon tastes great and each taco comes with a very plentiful helping of salmon. The salmon is then covered in some corn guac which perfectly matches with the salmon to create this light but very flavorful taco. My favorite. Pork Belly Taco - Delicious. Slightly crisp with good flavor and you can add an egg for a wonderful addition. The egg definitely adds this great texture and flavor to the tacos. But the egg isn't a dollar like we were told, it's $3 though, 1/taco which unnecessarily feels like getting nickle and dimed. Barbacoa - the meat is great and has a good flavor but is rather singularly flavored. I asked for and added a bit of hot sauce and it really took the taco to the next level. The diablo sauce that they offer isn't spicy at all, ask for extra hot sauce. Looking forward to returning!!
(5)Megan P.
It was okay. Expensive for what it was. Definitely fancy style and the food was good but nothing super special.
(3)Kennie G.
I have been here a few times now, and I keep hoping that I'll have that "wow factor" experience people keep telling me I'll have. Now, the food is very tasty, and I'm always a fan of tasty food, but it's overpriced. I've tried a few different things on the menu, and I've liked it all, which is why this place leaves me so torn. Great food, but ok service and ok atmosphere makes me want to go somewhere else to pay a bit less. I will return, however, if for no other reason that to try them out for this happy hour I've heard about.
(3)Ryan H.
Enjoyed my meal at Nada. Stopped by for lunch on a Saturday and it was really busy. Took a seat at the bar and ordered a small guac and the barbacoa tacos. Both were excellent. Pacifico is on draught and the vibe is fun. It's a two level restaurant and they have a great patio space out front for nice weather days. Would go back again when in Cinci.
(5)Josh S.
Food is excellent. Portions are small but the price is fair. Atmosphere is both fun and classy.
(4)Julia C.
Delicious food, great atmosphere, and wonderful service! My boyfriend and I split the fish tacos and chicken taquitos, and both were delicious. I also had the butternut squash soup, which was my absolutely favorite of everything I tried - SO good. The gelato and churros were also delicious. Our server, Ruth, was great - attentive, very friendly, and gave wonderful recommendations! I will definitely be back. Oh, and the mac & cheese....wow!
(5)Heidi F.
I've been to Nada before during Happy Hour and for dinner, but I just recently made my first trip to Nada for Brunch. We had a party of 5, and made reservations for 10:30am (that's when they open for Sunday brunch). The reservation wasn't really needed, we were able to be seated right away and there were still plenty of available seats. Keep in mind, Nada has an upstairs with a bar in addition to the first floor and patio. The French toast was delicious. I have a serious sweet tooth, so it might not be for everyone. (My favorite breakfast foods borderline some peoples desserts.) The service has been spot on each time I have visited; helpful staff and just the right balance of attentiveness (not helicoptering, but also not like they forgot about you). I tried a little bit of everything at brunch... French toast, salsa trio (highly recommend, it's also on their happy hour menu), queso, guacamole, pork belly tacos, chicken tacos... The only thing I have been disappointed in is their plain tomato salsa. Everything else is just so good, that the bland tomato salsa just sticks out as being sub-par in my book.
(5)Sherry T.
Today was the first time I experienced happy hour at Nada. The following includes the good, the not-so-good, and the whatever. The good: first, Nada seems to have resolved the "secret" happy hour issue complained about in other reviews. By that I mean there was no question it was happy hour, because the hostess made it clear as soon as we walked in the door. Second, both the Nadarita and the ceviche were very good. We also enjoyed the chips, which had a nice crunch and were not overly salty. The not-so-good: first, being required to sit at the bar to participate in happy hour sucked. Second, although the bartender was friendly enough and made great drinks, he was slower than molasses. My friend and I tried desperately to make eye contact with him on many occasions to no avail. She finally gave up and called out to get his attention. We also waited forever for our check, despite being seated directly in front of him. I observed that other patrons were annoyed as well. The whatever: the pork belly taco that so many others rave about was, well, whatever. Perhaps I simply do not appreciate pork belly the way others seems to, or perhaps it really was nothing special.
(3)Michael T.
Firstly, the restaurant was immaculately clean. The decor was modern and well kept. Secondly, if you're looking for authentic Mexican, this is not your restaurant. That being said, it was an awesome "modern" twist on Mexican favorites. The food was delicious, but for the price, the helpings were small in size. Also, if you're not a huge fan of spice, make sure you ask for the dishes with minimal spice, or for them to make a non-spicy version. Our waiter was super knowledgable and attentive. Other than smaller portions, I have no complaints. I would recommend it for anyone looking for a light meal while in the area.
(4)Jessica N.
I have to agree with other reviewers that Nada is consistent. I have been here multiple times over the past couple of years, and the food is always awesome. I am especially a fan of their brunch, though it is definitely more of a special occasion brunch spot. The last time I went to Nada for brunch, I ordered the carnitas tamal & egg. I will break it down for you: corn tamal under spicy pork, topped with avocado and pickled onions, and then glorified with an over-easy egg. This is something I wish I could eat everyday, minus the digestive problems that would surely ensue, especially if I were to order churros to finish off the meal... which I did. No regrets. If you do want to indulge in Nada's brunch, I recommend you make reservations. Our party of two made reservations for 11:30AM on a Sunday and had we not, there would have been no way we were getting in there.
(5)Robert W.
Please bring back the old recipe for the shrimp tacos. I tried one of the new shrimp tacos last night and it was not very good. The pork chop was excellent as always but seriously the new shrimp tacos have to go.
(4)Devon C.
Nada was the first restaurant I've ever been to in Cincinnati. I tried it while in town interviewing for my current job. I've now been to Nada two more times since that day and each of my dining experiences has been better than the last. If anything, their consistency alone puts them above their competition. Nada has definitely become one of my favorite restaurants in downtown Cincinnati. They have a very trendy and upscale ambience with outdoor seating and a great location in the heart of downtown (right next to the Aronoff Center). Their staff is always friendly and their meal and drink recommendations have been on point. My favorite menu items would have to be the pork ones: I love the barbacoa tacos and the pork green chile enchiladas. The pork will melt in your mouth and you will savor the deliciousness so much that you won't want to swallow. I definitely recommend this place to anyone in the mood for Mexican food.
(5)Shannon H.
Ok so nada has a really nice atmosphere for drinking margaritas with your girlfriends and just hanging out. I love their chips and salsa they are delicious but I think their food is overpriced for what you get. Their tacos are quite expensive for what you get and considering you can go right down the road to Bakersfield for a cheaper and more delicious taco. Nada is bigger and has a more upscale feel to it so I will give it that. Their outside seating area is really nice for nights where the weather is good.
(3)Gabe S.
This is one of my favorite places to go in downtown Cincinnati. The atmosphere is very nice with a great seating area both indoors and outdoors. Our food was fantastic, and our waiter gave us in-depth explanations of our dishes as well as very good recommendations . The food was brought out promptly, and was cooked to perfection. The service was some of the best I've ever had and I was extremely pleased with the entire meal.
(5)Joe M.
After a long day at the office, our team decided to grab some dinner and drinks together and decompress from the busy day. One of the hot spots to do that at is apparently at Nada, a sort of Mexican fusion restaurant. It was packed with young pros looking to take the edge off with a margarita, and we were looking for exactly the same thing. I started with their sparkling sangria, which was full of yummy fruits and a refreshing bubbly-ness. They don't offer chips and salsa on the house, so we ordered some guacamole and queso dip, which came with some salsa and chips. The condiments were yummy, and I particularly liked the fresh guar with their warm chips. I didn't like that you had to pay $2 for chips and salsa and find that much of the chips were just broken shards. For my meal, I ordered their popular pork belly tacos, which came three to an order, but without a side. For $15, I was terribly disappointed at the overcooked, basically fried bacon in a tortilla. If we didn't have the guacamole and queso, I would have been left with the most boring tacos in the world. Flavors were just so-so and very unspecial. Service was friendly but not terribly quick. This place is pretty darn expensive for what it is and we somehow managed to average out to about $42/person. How that happened I'll never know, but thankfully the company picked up the tab. Otherwise I don't think I'd go back. Food: 6/10 Service: 7/10 Price: $$$ Atmosphere: 6/10
(3)Mark T.
I've been meaning to write a review for a few weeks now. Last time I went was when my friends took me here for a brunch after my birthday weekend. I just got back from a Vegas trip. The manager found out and held an impromptu blackjack game with the table. Service is above and beyond! On top of that the food is delicious for brunch, lunch, or dinner. I've never had a bad meal here.
(5)Devika A.
All about this chip trio to begin! 1) Sangria Pitcher on a date 2) Tacos as an appetizer if you're in a group (bbq pork is amazing) 3) Green chile/ pulled pork enchilada dish is so tasty and you always leave with a few leftovers I've never had dessert here although I would like to try. Also, you might want to make a reservation here just to be safe, especially if you want to eat here on a Friday or Saturday.
(5)Robin L.
Ug, the epitome of over-rated and over-priced. I've given this place a fair shake since everyone is always falling all over themselves about Nada. But to sound puny, nada is the way I feel about the menu. It's insanely priced and incredibly boring. If I wanted a damn good taco I could get that elsewhere for under $5. Nada asks about $15. Nada is on my never again list...unless I find myself in downtown Cincy and need a margarita but no food.
(2)Jeremy R.
Ever since arriving in Cinci a year ago I have been to Nada over 5 times. It is an excellent place for dates and to just relax with your friends. The food is absolutely amazing and the service is equally as high quality. I LOVE NADA
(5)Amanda S.
Excellent food and atmosphere - a little noisy at times. Chips and salsa are a must!
(4)Chase J.
This may have been the best Mexican food I have ever had! While nada is certainly pricey you get the high quality that you pay for that plus its location right next to the Aronoff makes this a no brainer for fantastic restaurant. The service was helpful attentive and very polite not to mention incredibly nice, and the food oh my god the food. It was almost a religious experience, and I will finish this by saying if your near nada and you don't try it you are doing yourself a massive disservice
(5)Rosita C.
Can I say over-rated and not authentic Mexican? Definitely not. Nice interior and fancy place with outrageous prices but you are paying for their location. Food was mediocre at best and definitely would not call it Mexican atleast people who have had good Mexican food in the Southwest and Mexico itself would not call this authentic. Gringo food...
(2)Michele G.
Nada is the perfect name for this restaurnat. Food was so bad the manager ended up taking care of the bill for us. $12 for 2 little tacos with tasteless meat and a piece of red onion is crazy. I would have no problem paying that if the food actually tasted good. I do have to say the salsa they bring to the table is very , very good but the rest is just lacking taste. Some of the items I saw coming out of the kitchen looked good, but nothing we ordered was good. Sorry, I really did want to like this place but just can't recommend!
(1)Krystin M.
Went with a group for a special occasion and I cannot say enough wonderful things! The staff was so lovely. They were attentive and everyone's order was correct and delicious. They also took a moment to take our picture for us and joked around a bit. We ate outside which was great, but the inside was beautiful as well. Since they are a little pricey I probably won't be back just to fill my Mexican food craving, but for other special occasions.
(5)Amanda T.
It is in a fun area of town. My friend recommended it to me when I moved here. The staff is very friendly. I liked their salsa. My friends and I sat outside for dinner and it was not too loud and felt safe. I tried the vegetarian tacos, which were pretty good. You have to pay for the chips and salsa though. We did not have to wait and it was a good ambiance.
(3)Amanda H.
I love Nada. The brunch is amazing as is there fish tacos. (Seriously, best ever!) The only downside is its always crowded and not family friendly. But its a great place to go to for a girls night out.
(4)art s.
Convenient location triggered the visit, solid food made me glad I went. Chicken and corn enchiladas were addictively good and the Mexican mac n' cheese was a terrific side choice. Only thing I'd change is next time I probably won't order a Guinness with my meal (yeah, I ordered a Guinness at a Mexican place). First, just got the bottle placed on the table. Next, when I asked for a glass I got a chilled margarita mug with some residual salt on the lip. Sub optimal Guinness savoring circumstances. But kind of my own fault.
(4)Tejus P.
As solid of a spot as you can find in Cincinnati. As a flaming texan i was excited to see how the north interprets good mexican food and, in this case, the much anticipated Nada tacos. Pre-taco: - The service is hit or miss. I have come here a couple of times and its either really good or really bad, but nowhere in between. - The sauce is solid but they only give you red sauce, nothing of the green variety. - The chips are very nicely cooked and on the salty side (which is what i liked). - The drinks aren't out of this world. We ordered a few pitchers of the Nada margarita which was alright but nothing special. - The appetizers are pretty good, my favorite by far was the Mac' N' Cheese. The Taco Meal: Essentially THE thing at Nada are it's tacos. You have the option to get 3 of the same taco for a cheaper price, or individual tacos at $6.50 each. I got 3 tacos each time i went, all different. I'll be completely honest they are all fairly good so it's smart just to go with your personal preference of protein. Tip: Do NOT get the egg on the pork belly taco, this is the one and only time I would say don't put egg on anything, but it overpowers the taco. Overall, a great place to bring out the little mexican in you.
(4)Jenny Z.
Having grown up in California and sampling many a Mexican meal, this restaurant hits the mark as authentic. The food is wonderful and fresh..the chips alone are the best I have ever had. I know that the restaurant attracts a young crowd but authentic Mexican music would definitely suit the atmosphere. There is so much contemporary music that has a Mexican-salsa feel that's fun, lively and loud. You can go to any other restaurant and here hip music..this place is special and the music should match that.
(4)Toree C.
I love Nada, the food was great & the service was so friendly. Unfortunately, my husband was not impressed. We were there for a brunch date, but the seating is pretty close. We were nearly elbows to elbows to the couples on either side of us. This together with what he felt were small portions, I'll have to go again sans the hubby. The cafe emborrachado is worth going out with friends for.
(3)phil b.
Our first visit to Nada and we can't wait to go back. This restaurant was great! The food was soooo delicious. I ordered the pork chop (cooked sous vide) and it was probably the best I've ever had. My wife had salmon tacos and loved it as well. For an appetizer we had the guacamole for two and it was also great. It was a little noisy, but we loved Nada!
(5)Sasha R.
Delicious is an understatement! This place will blow your taste buds away! The food was not only delicious but flavorful cooked to order and priced just right! Staff members are friendly and welcoming from the hostess to the waiters and even management, we even met one of the cooks! If you're in Cincinnati don't want to miss this jewel. The Mexican food served and the flavors of the different dishes made this Cuban excited to be here!
(5)Ty S.
Great ambience for a dinner date for two. A little cramped if you have a bigger group. The fish tacos and shrimp tacos rival Bakersfield (my wife actually thinks they are better). The blueberry limonada is an extreme guilty pleasure. Cool place to eat before going out, but you better make reservations well in advance. Same day calls for dinner land 930 or 10 o'clock times.
(3)Bilinda B.
I was sooooooo disappointed for Nada. :( we were very excited to try it for the first time as a double date (with my bestie and her bf) and at first were very impressed with the decor and the friendly staff. We sat on the top floor kind of in a corner of a party room and the table was cramped and dark. We all ordered drinks which were over priced for what they were in my opinion. The specialty 'house beer' tasted like they poured a miller light in my glass and then charged me $13. We ordered our food which was mostly tacos with different insides and out of the 4 of us, 0 ate more than one. All of the food, appetizers and all, tasted like they had been in the freezer for a few months and the spice on my shrimp tacos was almost intolerable. About 5 minutes into our meal i asked how my girlfriends was and to my surprise she said it was awful. that's when the boys chimed in that they thought it was just theirs and it's funny we just said that because they were just going to eat it anyways. All in all a bill for us 2 (2 orders of tacos and 2 beers) was around $60. I don't think we will be back for seconds.
(2)Gina M.
The hubs and I were in town for a wedding and came here for a very late "brunch" on Sunday. Not only was the food super tasty, but our server was absolutely amazing. For starters, we ordered the salsa trio (all three were delicious but the hottest one with corn was to die for!), the guac (really good) and the queso dip (holy giant vat of cheesy goodness!). For our entrees, the hubs got the shrimp tacos. First of all, you get 3 tacos but they are HUGE! We were expecting small tacos and were surprised when we got 3 regular sized tacos in flour tortillas. The shrimp tacos were tossed in a spicy sauce and paired with arugula. Simple, but the arugula made for a nice peppery taste. I ordered the pork belly tacos. When I ordered the dish, our server recommended adding a fried egg to the tacos. Ummmmmm...OKAY!! The pork belly itself was thick and super tender, the pickled onions made for a nice contrast to the pork and the egg just set everything off! It was so good I was so sad that I could only eat one! They were just too big! LOL A definite return visit when we are back in town!
(5)Amy T.
I doubt Nada needs another glowing review, but let me give a shout-out to their Sunday brunch. My husband had the French toast - it's proper French toast, with a crispy outside and creamy inside. This one had the flavor and consistency of bread pudding. Served with a helping of caramelized bananas, pecans, and whipped cream. Dessert for breakfast at its best. I had the Huevos Rancheros, which was delightfully spicy and rich. Some of the tacos and starters (Mexican Mac and Cheese, Boca Fries) are also on brunch menu. Also, Sunday brunch at noon was nowhere near as crowded as weekend nights are in Nada. So if you want your Mexican on the laid-back side, try brunch.
(5)Jeannette A.
One of the better if not best restaurants in Downtown Cincinnati...i've been here twice and was very impressed by the eclectic menu and the service was superb. I will be eating here again when i'm in the area.
(4)Susanna B.
Would I recommend Nada? One word: nada. My boyfriend and I have been meaning to go here for a while and finally made it there this weekend along with a couple of out-of-town guests. The crowded patio, festive lights, and modern, colorful interior seemed to promise a fun evening, but sadly the meal was mostly downhill from there. We ordered a pitcher of the white sangria and a pitcher of margaritas - both of which proved profoundly disappointing. The sangria had no fruit in the pitcher, with four or five measly pieces of fruit in the glasses (isn't the whole point of sangria eating the alcohol-soaked fruit at the end?!) Our margaritas looked, and tasted, like nothing more than Jose Cuervo mix and cheap tequila. As far as the food goes, the chips, salsa trio, and guacamole were decent, but unremarkable. For our entrees, one of our friends ordered the steak fajitas, which came out cold and cooked almost well done. My boyfriend and I ordered the shrimp tacos and pork belly tacos. Once I found the shrimp hiding in a sea of romaine lettuce, it was obvious that they were frozen shrimp out of a bag - pale, limp, puny, and completely lacking in flavor. The pork belly tacos did have a nice crispness and flavor - but really, how can you screw up a piece of meat that is essentially a thick slice of pork fat? We definitely wanted to like this place, but I can't even recommend going here for happy hour despite the patio and festive atmosphere. More than anything we were disappointed that we brought out-of-town friends here when there are a dozen other fabulous restaurants in the area with less hype, lower prices and much better food. Next time I'm in the mood for tacos or guac, I'll be heading back to Bakersfield in OTR or one of the delicious (and cheap!) taco joints in Northside.
(1)Alexander D.
Events here are crazy fun. We went in Cinci De Mayo and it was excellent. We got a table after a 2 hour wait but we wanted to mingle and get drinks before hand so this worked out well. It is a bit pricier but well worth the money. I love the pork bully tacos with the friend egg. It is making my mouth water as I write this review. Please make a trip if you have never been.
(5)Michelle C.
ALL HYPE AND NO SUBSTANCE!!!!!! This is clearly "THE PLACE" to go, because the patrons are beautiful, the staff is beautiful, but everything else is sub-par!!!! I was in Cincinnati on a business trip and Nada's came up as the best Mexican restaraunt near my hotel (4 STARS!!!!) and even one of the top rated restaraunts overall. I headed over early on a Tuesday night as I read in the reviews that the place is packed even early in the week. I arrived just prior to 5:00 p.m. and inquired at the hostess stand if I could have a hightop in the bar area as there were only a couple of bar seats open in the downstairs bar and I didn't want to squeeze into the all male gathering. The female hostess was snobbish and completely unhelpful, she curtly said "NO!" and offered me no other options. Fortunately, a male server was happening by and informed me the upstairs bar had plenty of seating. I made my way upstairs to find an empty bar and grabbed a seat...and waited....and waited. Finally the bartender (who clearly hates his job and lacks any kind of costomer service skills) comes out and I order a drink (HE DOES NOT MENTION HAPPY HOUR...THERE IS NO SIGNAGE FOR HAPPY HOUR...THERE IS NO OFFICIAL HAPPY HOUR MENU....ONLY WHEN I AM HALF WAY THROUGH MY MEAL AND ONTO MY SECOND DRINK DOES THE GUY WHO SAT DOWN NEXT TO ME ASK ABOUT HAPPY HOUR AND SURE ENOUGH THERE ARE HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS!!!!!). But onto the food....Chips and Salsa (which are NOT FREE) = MEH, chips are over oiled and fried...salsa is bland...thankfully there was some hot sauce at the bar that I genorously dumped into the salsa. I ordered the chicken and corn enchiladas as I love enchiladas and there were many reviews that raved about them. Chicken and Corn Enchiladas = HEAVY ON THE UNDERDONE FLOUR TORTILLAS, light on the chicken (maybe 1/10 of a standard chicken breast, in an amazingly flavorful sauce! There was SOOOOOO much flour tortilla, that 1/2 way through my first one, I just started cutting through all of the tortilla to get to the tablespoon of filling inside!!!! Why 2 stars and not 1? I like the Sangria Rojo! AND THERE IS A HAPPY HOUR AND THEY ARE $5!!!!
(2)Esther K.
I grew up in Cali and expensive Mexican seems like an oxymoron. Nada is pricier for Mexican food but it is WORTH IT! Drinks are amazing... LOVE the blueberry drink. Yum. Had an incredibly flavorful meal. Will definitely be back! Awesome birthday dinner!
(5)Lonnetta P.
This review is overdue. Nada is on my list of favorites downtown. I've been here several times and I always enjoy myself. The valet parking right outside will cost you $8. I utilize this service during this time of year. It's so worth it, especially if a show or other event is taking place. This place is warm and inviting. Staff at the door are friendly and accommodating. The place was packed, so we did have to wait a bit. The wait wasn't bad at all. We actually had time to head across the street to one of my other favorite spots for drinks. After receiving our call, we were immediately seated. I recommend the mac & cheese. Served nice and hot in a cast-iron bowl. It's creamy with a hint of jalapeño. Delicious!
(4)Dani E.
Went on a Thursday afternoon and was blessed with no wait! After arriving with some friends, our waiter came to the table. He seemed nice, but was not around a whole lot, we waited for refills a lot. I did order the prickly pear margarita and it was delicious, like grown up kool-aid! My friends and I ordered some apps, we got the chips with quac, Mac and cheese and the potatoes. I would say their quac and Mac and cheese was great and the chips melt in your mouth. The potatoes were nothing special. For food I ordered the fish tacos, they were decent, not my favorite but they were okay. Very expensive as well for 2 tacos. I did order a pork belly taco to go for my son when leaving. He did say it was very good but it looked very greasy. Overall I would go back.
(4)Keith C.
It's refreshing to find a local place that applies modern and creative culinary techniques to Latin American ingredients. Most every major metropolitan area boasts an establishment of this ilk, and I'd say Nada serves that niche for Cincinnati. My family and I happened to go to Nada on one of the most glorious Saturday's of the year - at least weather wise. We were able to walk right up sporting our double wide twin stroller and procure fabulous outdoor seating for our party of four. Upon being seated we were informed that on Saturday for lunch we would have to adhere to the Nada brunch menu while ordering our food which is always a buzz kill for me on my first visit; I like to have the full menu at my disposal. Also, I generally get the feel that brunch menus are just a "creative outlet" for chefs - some can get really over the top though. Nada did a good job of not pouring on too much crazy with the brunch. I think the craziest thing we experienced was the fried egg on top of the Chorizo & Egg Enchiladas. My-oh-my...these enchiladas were crazy good. It's been a long time since I had a dish that thoroughly perplexed my taste buds in a good way. Even though I was at a restaurant, I really felt like that dish was homemade with a lot if time and attention. You could just feel it. Everything else was great too. I was a bit surprised that he guacamole wasn't better (too much lime juice?), but the salsa, queso and gazpacho were all solid. I'm looking forward to heading back to try the full menu.
(4)Katy S.
Nada is one of my favorite restaurants in Cincinnati. I ate there twice on my recent trip and was very happy with the food and service on both occasions. On trip 1 I was with a big party and made a reservation. We feasted on the chips with salsa, guac, and queso. All 3 dips were so fresh and the chips were fried to perfection. I had some sangria, which was not to sweet and just the way I like it! For my meal, I ordered the chicken and corn enchiladas. I love enchiladas with red sauce and these were the perfect mix of sauce, cheese, meat, and corn. Really really good and very attentive service! On trip 2 I was with a smaller party and sat upstairs. As it was brunch, I ordered a blood orange mimosa (YUM) and the eggs benedict with goetta. I'm not someone that usually orders eggs benedict, but I'm so glad I did as the goetta, sriracha, and avocado really made this dish DELICIOUS. I will likely be a loyal Nada customer for years to come based on the food, ambience and service. Great Mexican spot in downtown Cincy!
(5)Peter B.
Brunch was top notch. I ordered the "Goettadiction"--i.e. eggs benedict w/ a slice of goetta. They were also able to easily accommodate our group of 10. I will be back as I was very impressed with their brunch menu!
(4)Emma F.
This place was so expensive for what you got - tiny portions, ultra modern decor, expensive cocktails. I suppose this is a good place to entertain out of town guests or business clients. The food is average - but the location is very near fountain square - and is a great place when bar hopping downtown.
(3)Tabitha W.
We've now lived in Cincinnati for a whole year, and I had yet to make it to Nada! I've seen many good reviews of the restaurant online, and I love Mexican food, so there really isn't a good reason for it to take so long to make a visit happen. I had just learned that they had pretty good Happy Hour specials, so I made it a point to get out of work early and finally make this Nada visit happen. Sadly, after being seated, we then learned that Happy Hour is only available if you're seated at the bar. It does not mention that on the website at all. I'm not a fan of this practice. Why can't the patrons in the other areas of the restaurant be happy as well? :( Overall, the service was fairly slow, and our waiter randomly changed with no explanation. The food did come out pretty quickly though. I ordered the Nadarita , which was strong and tasty. I started with an order of the Mexican Mac 'N Cheese - a touch salty but otherwise delicious and cheesy. We had a side of the Boca Fries and the Vegetarian Tacos for our entree. All of the food was delicious, but it would have been great to take advantage of some of the happy hour specials and perhaps try a few more dishes/drinks.
(3)Tim C.
Started out the night with chip and salsa trio plus the Maxican Mac and Cheese. Both were fantastic. I could have eaten the chips by themselves! My wife had one of their Sangria and it was spectacular. I ordered the michelada but quickly realized this was basically a Bloody Mary (not my thing). Sent it back for a fantastic 5 Lizard IPA. Our meals consisted of carnitas tacos and barbacoa tacos. Both were very good and we were both glad we ordered them spicy. We finished off our night with churros and champagne that was given to us on-the-house because it was out anniversary (they will ask if you're celebrating a special occasion if you make reservations in advance). Just a forewarning, the happy hour specials only apply while sitting at the bar.
(4)Carolyn H.
Joined our friends here for dinner last night. Fun, lively atmosphere. My Paloma cocktails were spot on, if not a little slow getting to the table. Chips and guacamole---yum. The shrimp tacos were good though the tortillas could use improvement (I prefer corn tortillas for tacos) and my hub enjoyed the fish tacos. Servings were generous.
(3)Nikki H.
This place was recommended to is by our hotel. It was very trendy and they played really great music. We had great service and the food was realllly good!! We had the fajitas and enchiladas .. Delicious and fun!
(5)Kate H.
The food at Nada is fantastic. Chicken soft tacos are made more interesting with a black bean puree and super fresh guacamole. Chips and salsa are delicious - and I don't eat pork, but all my friends love the pork belly tacos. What is really awesome, though, is the staff. Our server was in training, and very nice. (Wish I could remember his name!) A host named Jordan actually checked in on us during our meal and helped me and my sister get to a show at the Aronoff on time. He was funny and charming, and really went out of his way. He is a real asset to Nada.
(5)Dale H.
Went here for lunch before an Aronoff Sat. matinee. We had reservations and were promptly seated. The waiter was personable and efficient. Though since he was only 20, he could not give recos on the drinks. But that wasn't a problem. He was VERY patient with all of my questions :o) Food came out quickly and was pretty good. We ordered an app of guac and salsa. The salsa was a nice thickness and was just the right spiciness. The guac was tasty as well. The chips were good. They were warm. Noticed that they have large containers of chips sitting up high in the kitchen. Asked the waiter about them. They are made fresh every morning. They were warmed before serving. A bit disappointed about that.... I asked the waiter for a reco on the tacos. So many had raved about the pork belly tacos on Yelp that I was thinking about those. He said that it is a very rich dish and people tended not to be able to finish them. Went with the barbacoa tacos. Shredded beef short rib with pickled onion on top. They were good. Just good. The flavor profile was nice. There was a bit too much liquid and made the tortillas get soggy and break apart after a while. And that was with the diablo (spicy) sauce on the side! The tortillas were delicious - tasted hand-made. I also ordered a side of the frijoles charros. Beans, bacon, cheese. They were just okay. Only finished about half. Had a nice brunch drink with my meal, a sparkling grapefruit drink with cava. Nice. Overall a good meal.
(4)Eileen E.
Nada is a great once-in-a-while place. It has a frou-frou atmosphere that is great for that night when you want to go chic. The meals are tapas style and smaller plates, so the bill can creep upwards rather quickly and you find yourself still hungry and 60 dollars poorer. The food is good, but not the hearty "I've eaten too much but it tastes so good I'm going to keep eating" kind of good. It's a sort of Mexican-Hipster fusion kind of menu: start with a burrito, just a small, run of the mill burrito, dress it up in a fancy table side made guac, add some fancy cheese and the word aioli to it, throw around phrases like "essence of smokiness" and "palette teaser" and slap on a 15.00 price tag. Nada is chic, the food is chic. It is not bad, but sometimes, you just want a Mexican meal that leaves you in a food coma, hold the aioli.
(3)J B.
Conveniently located and a good spot for people watching but the food was so-so. Mostly bland and very heavy on cheese.
(2)Chris H.
Great food - tacos are always good, but the sliders and the cazuela can't be missed. Fun environment and good service. Doesn't disappoint.
(5)Kelsey H.
WOW!! Amazing Margarita!! I had the classic nadarita with a salted rim, which was not too sweet, and only as salty as you wish with the salt rim. My sister had some chicken breast main dish with green beans, salsa (spicy!!), and squash which was deeeeelicious! I was fortunate enough that she gave me a taste. I also saw tacos passing by... and I decided that I MUST come back to get a taste! The place was pretty busy for a Tuesday night. They had quaint outdoor seating for when the weather is compatible with your nighttime plans. I only give 4 stars instead of 5 for the service. Our waiter was a bit standoffish... and then he warmed up to us and was very hospitable.
(4)Libby V.
I just needed a bite of something between brunch that morning and a big dinner I had planned later that night, and spotted this place when I checked into 21C Museum Hotel. "A taco would be perfect" I think to myself and I headed over. As I got close to the door I saw a small sign that said "Happy Hour 3 - 6" glanced at my watch and did a happy dance - it was 3:01. Luck was on my side. Sat at the bar and ordered Tito Vodka ($3), Trio of Salsa's ($2) and a grilled chicken taco ($4). The chips were so good and just the right size to pop in your mouth. The Fire Roasted Tomato salsa was mild, as was the Jalapeno Verde but the Habaneo-Garlic Kreeper had a real bam to it. yelp.com/biz_photos/nada… I enjoyed mixing the combinations - happy as a hog in slop. Then my taco came - Mother of everything that is holy that was a good taco, including black bean puree, pico de gallo, cheese and guacamole. Yes...guacamole. Color me happy. yelp.com/biz_photos/nada… Got my feel and they offered to pack up the chips for me, and I agreed cause thought they would make a good little snack when my girlfriends arrived. They packed up the salsa too - amazing and nice. Did I mention service was wonderful - the best. My entire bill was under $10 (before tip) I can't wait to go back and eat a full fledged meal here. I want the whole experience. Including the Mexican Mac and Cheese. Something to look forward to.
(4)Dawn B.
Every time I come here I have such an excellent experience. The atmosphere is hip and casual, the food is delicious and the service is outstanding...always! My favorites are the Mac n Cheese and the Vegetarian Tacos...OMG fantastic!! I seriously think I'm addicted to this place.
(5)Erin K.
Yay birthday dinner! There is a big debate going on about whether Nada or Bakersfield is better. I think this is an unfair debate, because Nada has so much more to offer, whereas Bakersfield specializes in the smaller selection of items they have. Point being, I like them both a lot. We got seats downstairs and I had fun people-watching AND checking out their pin-up girl-esque decor (on the walls, the menus and the bathrooms!) I got the chili-mango margarita and immediately felt like I was back in Mexico, ordering chili-limon covered mangos on sticks. So deliciously tasty, with the absolute perfect amount of spice! We also got the ceviche, which is better than Bakersfield (IMHO) and a bigger portion size as well. Nada's chips are my favorite kind of chips in the entire universe. I'm sure they're fried in some sort of greasy lard concoction, but I don't even care. They crunch and then melt in your mouth while the salt particles dance on your tongue. The best. For the main course, we got the pork belly tacos (holy crap, who came up with this idea - GENIUS!) and the fish tacos, both of which were amazing. I could only eat one of each because I was so stuffed. AND THEN, as we were sitting there waiting for the check, writhing in "it hurts so good" pain because of the amazingly delectable food we'd just inhaled, they brought us churros for my birthday! They weren't the kind of "street" churros I'm used to, but they were still tasty, and drenched in maple syrup. I needed someone to roll me out of the restaurant at the end of the meal. Unfortunately, this isn't a service Nada offers, but their employees still rock the house! Def will be back again! :)
(5)A-Aron G.
The food here is spicy however, there is good ambiance and good drinks. It's a good date place but should be used as a place for a social night not a work meeting.
(2)Jessica D.
Nada: Best Interior Design Winner (according to me), 2013. Food on the other hand, 3.5 (Yelp: Suggestion, offer a 3.5 star option!). My boyfriend and I elected to eat brunch here on a lovely Saturday morning, in search for eclectic, original food. His meal, the Eggs Benedict, was far better than mine--borderline exceptional. The eggs were drizzled with a sriracha-lime Hollondaise sauce that was to die for. It had the Soup Nazi effect on me, like I was under a spell. My eggs and tinga cazuela was very average. The braised chicken was a tad salty and very watery, and didn't jive well with the lone fried egg. The chorizo--one of my favorite foods, for the record--was barely detectable. I thought the warm tortilla was probably the highlight of the meal. However, I'll give credit where credit is due, and my blood orange mimosa was worth the $7. Light, bubbly, refreshing. Not too sweet, a nice twist. I was also intrigued by the grapefruit mimosa. Maybe next time, if I return. If you are looking for places that emanate of trendiness, check out Nada. It's a nice place for fresh, casual conversation and progressively styled patios and restrooms. There are better places for brunch in Cincinnati, I am sorry to say...with the exception of the Eggs Benedict.
(3)Raleigh P.
I've eaten at Nada twice, both date nights. It's the perfect venue if you want to dress up a little but not super fancy. The outdoor area is beautiful - the only complaint is that the table for two was too small. It's not bad except that my 5'10" legs hit the center table leg, my date wasn't in a better position either. Inside, no issues for tall people! The chips and guac were amazing! The fish tacos were perfectly moist without having juice spill out everywhere. The mojitos, oh the mojitos. For any of you who are in love with the minty, sugary, rum beverage - you must get one!
(4)Rob B.
Nada go here. Seemed a little too trendy for happy hour. Didn't make it past the snobby hostess. Might try again on a different day.
(2)Brooke P.
What a gem- great location, great ambience, and delicious food. The homemade chips & salsa was also great, and the guacamole was smooth and delicious. i concur with other reviewers that the pork belly tacos and jalapeno mac-n-cheese were to die for, and the service was excellent. This is a good place to go for brunch, a date, or just to catch up with old friends. I also overheard a server say that the restaurant is named "Nada" because the owner means that "Nothing" is better.
(4)Joe J.
Nada is a great example of the American twist on Mexican food that succeeds. I highly recommend their shrimp tacos for the tangy sauce they add to them. Your have to pay for chips and salsa which is a let down (but only two dollars) and I wasn't pleased with the dessert my girlfriend and I shared either. Overall pretty great place!
(4)Eric S.
Probably one of my FAVORITE spots for brunch. Overall a great restaurant. Nice outdoor seating section. One of my favorites in Cincinnati.
(5)Eric A.
The food here is great. We ordered the guacamole and queso funditio to start and they were both great. All of our drinks were also tasty. For starters and drinks I would definitely go back. The only bad thing I have to say about this place is that the taco prices are a little ridiculous. For dinner, I had the pork belly tacos, which were good and filling but definitely not worth $16. You only get three tacos, so that's more than $5/taco! I just moved here from Chicago, where they have plenty of gourmet taco options and non of them are $5/taco and most of them taste even better. ( Try Big Star if you are ever there). If this place lowered their prices, I would be back all the time. Until they do, it's just not worth the return trip.
(4)Tahirah W.
Nada essentially means "nothing" when translated loosely-but there's definitely "something" about both the food and atmosphere at this place. We all ate varying takes of the taco and everyone raved about the flavor. Everything tasted great and fresh, unlike chain food places or that evil Tex-Mex crap. The baked chips were salty and crunchy, and the guacamole was fresh and delicious. The waitress was easy-going and attentive without being over-bearing, and the atmosphere was trendy without any pretentiousness. When I'm back this way & someone asks about Nada, all they'll hear from me is "Algo, Algo!"
(4)Ron A.
For the longest time my favorite Mexican place to eat was Taco Bell. I consider myself very cultured and likewise I love to think outside the bun. Then after a small battle with E. coli I discovered better and safer ways to get my Chalupa on. Cincinnati has a few good Mexican joints but nothing stood out as exceptional. Then one day I discovered Nada, and my life hasn't been the same since. Every time I bite into the food at Nada, I feel like Speedy Gonzales on the inside, running around with my little guitar and singing Spanish love songs (even though on the outside I look like his fat lazy friends). I can't say that I've ever had better Mexican cuisine anywhere. The biggest draw for me to Nada is their happy hour. This landmark event occurs every Monday through Friday from 3-6 PM. There are drink specials but keep your focus on the grub. You can get the Salsa Trio for $2 and the Mexican Mac N' Cheese for $4. If all macaroni and cheese in Mexico is this good then I'd consider moving to Tijuana and changing my name to Ronaldo. Of course the full menu offers a host of amazing variety. And I love the location right in the middle of everything downtown. I'll likely see more shows at the Aronoff this year just so I have an excuse to stop in Nada. Next time you have a hankering for Mexican don't run for the border. Run to Nada and truly live mas!
(4)Peri R.
Food was good. Had chicken fajitas and the chips and salsa trio. Good flavor and plenty for sharing for two. Welcoming staff was a bit snobbish, but overall service was good.
(4)Brent T.
Great place to go for dinner when you want to go out in Cincinnati. Barbacoa tacos are delicious. Wait staff are all very knowledgeable and service is generally very quick. Restaurant is nicer than your typical Mexican restaurant. But not so fancy that you could only go on special occasions. Nice place for a date or to catch up with friends.
(5)Tyler M.
Where do I start? I get it...Bakersfield has the cool, trendy atmosphere that caters to the young trendy crowd of Cincinnati. That aside, I don't think it can even compete with the service and product of Nada. I love sitting on the patio of Nada and dining under the dim light of the lamp-lit trees. While I much prefer dining outside at Nada to the interior decor, there isn't a bad seat in the house. I have visited on numerous occasions and have never disappointed with any dish. Having said that, you don't even need to look at the menu: Crispy Pork Belly Tacos. Nuff said. The tacos just melt in your mouth. So much flavor. While the specialty margaritas run around 10 bucks a pop, you shouldn't leave without having a mango margarita. It had a fresh taste with just the right amount of bite from the tequila. While the prices run on the higher side, the food and service will keep me coming back. Easily my favorite tacos in Cincinnati.
(5)Suzanne M.
When I need to cheer myself up. I go here! If I want to get a fantastic cool crisp treat I get the guacamole and chips of course. I love the chicken taco's the combination of the flavors just flow perfectly. They have perfect packages for take out as well.
(5)Tiffany C.
4.5 stars! I don't know why I suddenly became a Mexican food lover after coming here...after all, I live in LA and am constantly surrounded by authentic and supposedly delicious Mexican food. Though I have a love for food, when it came to Mexican, those "fake taco" Taco Bell supreme crunchy tacos were pretty much my favorite in taco world (that's a lot of tacos in one sentence :D). I ended up choosing to eat here while visiting my boyfriend in Cincinnati because it was one of the few places with over 200...even over 100 reviews and my boyfriend and I were both hungry after exploring DTCinci on a chilly winter day. The bf isn't a Mexican food fan as well, so this was a stretch from our usual culinary excursions. AMBIANCE: Love the trendy and rather upscale atmosphere this place offers. Waiters are friendly and service is good. Came here for lunch so there were quite a few office workers inhabiting the tables. There are two levels and we were seated on the upper level (I don't know what it is about curvy stairs inside restaurants, but I find them to be so exciting...such a kid...). The restaurant seemed fairly spacious and was a bit dim, but light coming through the windows brightened the place up considerably. FOOD: Chips, salsa, guacamole. Nothing spectacular, but I loved that the guacamole had chunks of avocado in it. I ordered the baja fish taco because I wasn't a fan of more meaty tacos...until I had tried my boyfriend's delicious barbacoa tacos. Now those were SOOO SOOO delicious, I think I ended up making him switch :D Even now I sometimes joke around and ask him to FedEx me some...or fly some over when he visits LA, but alas, that never happens. Anyways, I would love to come here more if I could and to say I miss it would be an understatement. I've even ventured to try popular Mexican places in LA...but it's not the same!!! Maybe I'm just weird...that's probably it.
(4)Elizabeth S.
Outstanding! Had the best fish tacos I've has in 3 years since moving here from Arizona. Terrific Caiparinha, excellent guac and chips, fun atmosphere and wonderful friendly service. Menu was great. Can't wait until my next visit to NADA!!
(5)Brijesh K.
Great food! Good Margairta
(4)Alexandra J.
The Short: the tacos are not good, the guacamole is expensive, but the drinks are OK and the chips were delicious. The Long: the restaurant is more of a bar scene than a place to go to get delicious, authentic Mexican food. I ordered the Baja Fish tacos, which were large but not very appetizing. The fish was bland, the tortillas were flour, and the cabbage (which isn't pickled) didn't really add much. I would not recommend ordering these tacos to anyone. The chips, which are deep fried and heavily salted, are delicious. But you have to pay for chips and salsa, which is sort of ridiculous. This is the only upscale Mexican restaurant I've ever been to where that is the case. The "large" size guacamole was also extremely expensive.
(2)Ben N.
I have re-evaluated Nada after eight or ten more visits over the last few years, including a visit on a weeknight. I still don't much like the slick "beautiful people" atmosphere at Nada, and the food (especially the guacamole) and drinks are still too expensive. The salsa is still only pretty good. The casual-ness of the service can still be a little grating. All the male servers are apparently trained to act as though they're your "bro." And the pallid, safe, fey, lackluster indie pop that so much of this generation of young urban professionals seems to love is, unfortunately for me, a big favorite at Nada. (It's especially annoying in the wintertime, when Nada feels the need to loudly broadcast this mewling, uninspiried pablum to passersby.) Ugh. But I think I was being contrarian in suggesting that the food at Nada warranted only three stars. The barbacoa and carnitas alone are simply good enough and consistent enough to bump the rating to a rounded-up four. (I had the pork-belly tacos when I went at night, and while they were good, they were cut by the barbacoa and carnitas.) And while the demeanor of the servers can be off-putting, I have to admit that they are very efficient and competent. Food-wise, Nada is very dependable at what it does, and that counts for a lot.
(4)Caroline P.
I love all the tacos! The fried fish tacos are insanely good. The pork belly tacos are also amazing. BEST mac and cheese in town. The sangria is OK too.
(5)Tiffany P.
It was just ok to me. Everyone was nice.
(3)Amanda C.
With food this delicious and thoughtfully prepared, how could anyone complain about the price? Based on how packed the restaurant was early on a Tuesday evening, I don't think anyone sincerely believes that complaint! Seriously, make reservations if you plan on dining at Nada. All the food was perfectly delicious: the delectable appetizer sopes, fresh-smashed guacamole with interesting veggie garnish (the jicama was a nice touch!), pork belly and fish tacos served with complementary slaws and sauces. Oh, and don't miss the mashed plantains-- I can't even figure out precisely how they made that melt-in-your-mouth side. Because of Nada's trendy reputation, I was surprised that the service was so excellent. Our waiter was authentic, helpful and considerate. I hate cilantro, and he asked the chef to omit it from all garnishes. Also, his recommendations were great! (Perhaps this is because everything on the menu is great?) In conclusion, go here! Prepare to be silenced by the pure awe of deliciousness. P.S. For you downtown dwellers, I noticed some take-out orders leaving the kitchen.
(5)Amy E.
I loved my dinner here. We got great people watching seats on the second floor by the window. The chips are so fresh, and the salsa trio had great flavor and a bit of heat. I always love sopes so I had to try to braised short rib sops, and it was delicious. But the star of the dinner was my pork belly tacos. So rich, and a perfect blend of flavors. My mojito complemented the meal very well. Service was great as well. I look forward to coming back!
(5)Philip T.
The English equivalent to the Spanish word Nada is Nothing. This is a very suitable name for this restaurant as whenever I dine here their is Nada left on my plate. This contemporary Mexican restaurant is a great date place, perfect for grabbing dinner and drinks before attending a show at the Aronorff or after viewing the art at the CAC. The menu is difficult in that it is hard to decide what to order as all of their options are so excellente!
(4)Amber J.
Bit on the pricey side for what you get. I love love their guacamole but chips could be less greasy. The item I enjoy most on their menu is the chicken tortilla soup. YUM!! They also have brunch which is worthy of a stop.
(4)Kristen U.
Nada has a great atmosphere and really great food. I will definitely be going back!
(4)Joe R.
The food is awesome and my wife loves the margaritas:) I'm a fan of the queso and the chips. This is a very hip place with good atmosphere:) highly recommended.
(5)Karen K.
Love Nada! Especially love being outside on the patio enjoying some sliders! Friendly, good service, too.
(5)lisa w.
ambiance is fantastic - great location downtown, close to several cultural arts spaces and clubs; inside feels like a metropolitan hotspot food is delicious - i always get the house margaritas and other cocktails (never disappointed) - the meat combo (especially the goat) is to die for :) service is probably more like 4 stars because its not very consistent from visit to visit and from employee to employee. its a popular place which is always crowded, so don't go in and start ordering drinks on an empty stomach. sometimes orders can take time, and while its worth the wait, a boozy hungry girl is never fun.
(5)Jodey L.
Hip, friendly & super fun! Awesome dance music provides an upbeat atmosphere. Nice wine & beer selection, food was delicious for the adults. Kiddo was not happy with her slider & fries. I do not recommend that for kids, either unless your kid eats spicy foods & wouldn't mind a spicy burger. I will definitely go back but may leave the kiddo at home or try a quesadilla for el picky one.
(4)Chris R.
Food was amazing. Fresh & Tasty. Anyone can put sliders on the menu, but hands down, these were THE BEST. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. The pork belly tacos were an interesting treat. Would've preferred them on corn tortillas instead of flour, but still fantastic. Service was awesome. It's all about recovery. Not only did I accidentally knock the drink out of the waiters hand, but I then immediately proceeded to tip mine trying to recover. My bad. Staff was courteous and in good humor. Didn't skip a beat.
(5)Sheri M.
My husband and I just happened to walk into Nada for a quick snack before the play Wicked. Loved the atmosphere, food, and service. I would recommend it to everyone and can't wait to go back!
(5)Donna C.
Fan of the drinks & the apps. Dinner was ok but my foods was cold. They have a party room upstairs that we used for a work dinner which kept us together.
(4)Lillian C.
One of my favorite restaurants in Cincinnati! The food is an American restaurant with Mexican flavors in their dishes (Mexican 'fusion'). The atmosphere is chic and cool; a great spot for drinks with the ladies after work, an exciting date or regular dinner with a friend/spouse. The drinks are yummy! Try one and you probably won't be disappointed. My favorites are: nadarita, pink grapefruit margarita and sangria rojo. The food is delicious; my go-to dishes are: tacos (crispy pork belly, fish) and the mac n' cheese. I love this place, and it's my go-to spot in downtown Cincinnati for awesome drinks and food!
(4)Sophia B.
Nada has wonderful tacos, margaritas, mac & cheese & always great service!
(4)Alex L.
Awesome overall-- a bit pricey, but an amazing atmosphere and fun place for celebrations or events. Friendly service, outstanding food.
(4)Sherry S.
Food is always delicious! It's always a great and fun experience!
(5)Bonnie Z.
FOOD - Mexican Mac n Cheese: I am home in CA now and still dreaming of this for comfort food. Rich, creamy cheese over shell pasta tossed with roasted jalepeno and poblano peppers topped with crunchy bread crumbs...heaven in winter! - Churros: honey and churros are a great combo! A little bit sticky, sweet, and crunchy...yummmmm. DRINKS Margaritas are sufficiently strong and enough to give you a nice buzz. I recommend the strawberry or mango ones for people who like sweeter, fruitier drinks. SERVICE We made a reservation for 7 ppl at 8:30 but still had to wait a little bit before being seated. However, the waiter was pleasant and prompt in bringing us menus and drinks later. We didn't have to wait too long for the food to arrive. Checks were easily split 7 ways (my CA mind is still boggled by how they split the churros into sevenths).
(5)Robin M.
Love the shrimp tacos! The outside seating area is a great spot for sunday brunch
(5)Juliette W.
Fantastic service, my glass was never empty. The queso fundido is excellent (5 stars). I ordered the fajitas, very small portion for the price. The meat was very tough. My husband had the porkbelly tacos. Very good but a tad overdone. I would recommend this restaraunt for happy hour. The location is nice, the restaurant was very clean and inviting. I will not return for a dinner service but maybe for a drink and an appetizer.
(3)Teresa E.
The food was good, but not great. The atmosphere hip and modern. Nice dinner.
(4)Andrea C.
Great food, great service, fun location. I'm all about this place.
(4)Danielle F.
This place was pretty freakin' good! I made a reservation for 8 people via Opentable about 2 weeks in advance. Due to the size of the party, there were only so many tables available, and there was another large party there in advance of our reservation. After making the reservation, I called the restaurant to request moving the time to something around 7:30. The hostess was kind enough to explain the logistics of the table for the evening. She did say that we could try and show up early, but they typically block out a few hours for each reservation for larger sized parties. I definitely appreciated the information. To start, our group ordered chips and guacamole. We were quite pleased with the choice. For a cocktail, I had the red wine sangria which was pretty delish as well. I thought I was going to have a hard time choosing my meal, but as soon as I saw the pork belly tacos, I knew it was game over. I was definitely pleased with my choice. The pork belly had a crispy crust on the outside but was smooth and buttery on the inside. Such a rich dish meant it was quite filling as well. Our server was quite attentive and had a wonderful sense of humor. The ambiance of the restaurant is that of a urban casual environment. You can wear a nice pair of jeans and feel comfortable there, but several people were more dressy as well.
(4)Mike G.
Who knew that a Texan could find awesome Mexican food in Cincinnati? Great, homemade chips and salsa. Fantastic tacos, especially the salmon. The mashed plantains were different, but very tasty. Waiter (Jordan) was very helpful. He was quick to point out what's popular, his favorites, etc. I'd definitely recommend this place and will be back if I get the chance.
(5)Kaitlin B.
I absolutely love Nada, and after moving away from Cincinnati, it is something that I truly miss about living there. I often went to Nada for happy hour, but its great for lunch or dinner as well! The chips and guac are to die for and they always nice about giving you a refill. The guac is extremely fresh and has great flavor. I am also a huge fan of the vegetarian tacos and mexican mac and cheese. The house margaritas are fantastic. They have amazing flavor and the alcohol content is generous. If you are looking for a good flavored margarita, I highly recommend the pink grapefruit. Nada is great for groups of all sizes. I have gone with a few friends, as well as larger groups. Just make a reservation if you are planning to dine with a large group. Nada is definitely a must if you are in the Cincinnati area!
(4)Leif H.
This is the best Mexican restaurant in Cincinnati. The ambiance is great and upbeat. The food is also amazing. I have not had a bad item on the menu. Everything tastes so fresh. The prices are reasonable and don't forget to try one of their awesome margaritas.
(4)Anne M.
We ended up going here because Bakersfield had an hour wait and we were blown away. The food was outstanding - fish, pork, and barbacoa tacos, fresh chips and guacamole, sangria and margarita, and churros to finish it off. Highly recommend it!
(5)Live S.
The best tacos ever...but pricey. Drinks were good...buy pricey. This place is just pricey! Take a first date and never go back! ;-)
(5)Lia V.
Fancy Mexican joint downtown! The food really is always good. Ew ... one time I tried an oyster shooter... disgusting. Don't ever do that. The ambiance is swanky. I've been a few times all for semi-special occasions. They can accommodate large groups if you make a reservation and the staff is really friendly. It's definitely an upbeat restaurant and I like that it gives some life to downtown Cinci. I'll go back sometime soon I'm sure. It's worth checking out
(4)Celeste M.
Came here for lunch on a business trip. It was one of the only places open on a Monday. It gets a star for that. The waitstaff were really nice and attentive. Another star. I ordered a chorizo and chicken full plate. The chef must have a special relationship with the salt shaker because it made me have a special relationship with my glass of water. The prices are fair and the atmosphere is nice, so it gets 3 stars.
(3)John B.
In the past I've not really enjoyed dining or drinking here, but my most recent trip here was excellent. I love the interior design and hip feel of the place. I can't wait to come back in the warmer months and sit outside. For now, there is usually a fire pit burning for the valets and smokers. Our server Dennis was awesome and very nice to our group. He explained the components of the dishes we had questions about and was over apologetic when our food was a little slow from the kitchen. Another thing that made Dennis super awesome is that he was able to split my wife and I's dishes in two without any problems. That kinda service was unexpected and definitely appreciated. What did I have? Quacamole ($7) - I would skip this in the future but wanted to try it. It was just OK. The butternut squash soup ($6) was probably in the top five of butternut squash soups if not the best I've ever had. The chicken and corn enchiladas ($19) were fine but didn't have as much flavor as I was expecting and is overpriced. Oh well. I closed out the meal with the sangria poached pear and a serving of gelato. Those were great endings to the meal. I left stuffed and satisfied. Our group chatted up Dennis and it was cool to talk shop with someone on the inside. I'll have to come back for happy hour and some lite bites.
(4)David M.
Overall, Nada is delicious. I have never had a bad meal here and the menu has great uniqueness and variety. As other reviews have mentioned, the chips are awesome, warm, and crispy. Very oily though so they have to be terrible for you. The guacamole is also great here as is the mac and cheese appetizer. I have had several different kinds of tacos here and all have been great. The barbacoa tacos were probably my favorite just for the awesome combination of flavors present. For me, Nada is a treat because it is VERY difficult to order a healthy meal here and it is also a little on the pricey side. One of my favorite things about Nada, however, is their happy hour drink menu. It is simple, cheap, and unique with options made with top-shelf liquor that you don't normally see at happy hours. Finally, the atmosphere here is amazing. There was obviously some serious cash put in to the design of this place. Modern decor is all over and the restaurant has an awesome 2-level setup that you have to see. Perfect for a business lunch or date night. Give Nada a try for a unique take on Mexican.
(4)Brendon D.
Yucatan chicken! Amazing! Great interior and nice staff. I suggest coming here if in Cincinnati.
(5)Megan B.
Excellent food and service. Tacos (fish, pork, etc.), salads, and tortilla soup are outstanding as are the chips and salsa. Great patio though I'm typically here for lunch and not imbibing. Funky, modern vibe and buzzy atmosphere without being too loud. This is a great place to meet up with friends or have a business lunch and the menu is elevated Mexican with lots of fresh lime and cilantro. It's consistently good on all fronts!
(4)Ed P.
Over the weekend I finally made it to Nada. Saturday was my brother's girlfriend's birthday, so we all met up on Sunday for lunch. Actually I should say brunch, as that is what is served during Sunday morning and afternoon at Nada. They have a special brunch menu that is only available at this time. Honestly, I'm not a big fan of brunch. I don't like eggs, and that seems to be what the majority of brunch items tend to be. Fortunately their guacamole is still available during brunch, so we started with a bowl of it ($7). Their version of guac is very good, and the chips are equally great. We were also given a couple bowls of ancho chile salsa, which are listed as $2 on the menu, but perhaps they are thrown in when ordering the guacamole? I don't recall anyone actually ordering them, but maybe we were charged for them anyway. The salsa isn't very chunky, but it packs a decent spice punch. If I had to pick one, I would stick with the guacamole. Another bonus to their brunch menu is a special area for drinks, in addition to the regular drink menu. I decided to try the bloody Maria - house made mix, el Jimador tequila, and Cholula ($7). As similar as this was to a traditional bloody Mary, the tequila added an interesting citrus flavor to the drink. I think I actually would now prefer this version to the standard bloody Mary. My brother, a Nada regular, also decided that I needed to try the Mexican mac 'n cheese - fresh cheeses, jalapeño, and roasted poblano ($6). This appetizer was extremely creamy, and had the right amount of spice to compliment the cheese flavors. It doesn't share as well as the guacamole for a large party, but we managed to have enough for the six people at our table to sample a bit. For brunch lunch I went with the grilled chicken tacos - marinated chicken, black bean purée, pico de gallo, chihuahua cheese, and guacamole ($11). I wasn't sure how many tacos I was getting for the price, and when only two arrived, I have to admit I was disappointed. While it is true that they came packed with meat, I still feel that the cost is a bit high. With that said the flavor is really good, the chicken is moist and tasty, and you can't argue with more of their guac. Others at the table had the pork green chili burrito ($12), the fish tacos ($12), and the crispy pork belly tacos ($11). I guess at 11:30 only my wife was interested in eating brunch. Her pork green chili burrito combined an egg and potato filled burrito with braised pork in a green chili sauce. The fish tacos are South African hake which is fried "baja style" and served with guacamole, pico de gallo, and fresh cabbage. My brother did have a fried egg added to his crispy pork belly tacos, to sort of brunch up the dish. Overall, I would say the food was very good, but I felt the price was a little high. I've always heard that Nada served great food, but it is more of a place to see and be seen. I would tend to agree that the food and it's presentation is very trendy, not that it's a bad thing. I would definitely go back for more, but I think I'll stick to lunch or dinner on future visits.
(4)Ben D.
Limited menu, but the tacos are delicious. I particularly recommend the carnitas ala diabla! Also the queso fundito is a great starter. Don't expect good draft beer selections. This is definitely a liquor bar. Dessert is also mediocre. Service is outstanding. Make reservations ahead!
(4)Michael S.
I've been here a number of times with my wife's work, and I've always found the food and environment to be pleasant. I think it would be my go-to choice for out-of-town guests as it has the space and atmosphere to accommodate a decent number of people. It is certainly one of only a few upscale casual places that can stand to host a private party, and I would book it in a heartbeat if I needed to host an event. Nada offers a great margarita, some very good appetizers (especially the mac-and-cheese), and good tacos, though I think Bakersfield OTR offers better tacos at a better price. I think the beer selection could be improved, but Nada is a Mexican restaurant, so it's reasonable for it to not be all things to all people. I also think it is a bit pricey across the board. Three tacos for $14-19? That's a stretch. Still, let's not kid ourselves. Nada has carried Cincinnati upscale casual for a long time and has earned its place as a Cincinnati institution.
(4)Brandy V.
I had dinner there last night with a group of friends (8 total) for a birthday celebration. We enjoyed chips and guacamole and several rounds of drinks. I had the grilled salmon which was amazing!! My husband had grilled chicken tacos, which were large and full of flavor. I love going to Nada and always have a great time. One small thing was that the table that we were seated at was not large enough for 8 people. Once we received our food we were smooshed! Gratuity is automatically added for large parties, 20%. I look at my bill when it comes to make sure everything is right so I noticed the gratuity and informed my friends in case they didn't know, since our server didn't mention this to us..not a big deal, but you should always mention this. Will definitely be back soon for happy hour!
(4)B Q.
YUM - try the enchiladas! In terms of price, it's definitely a little more expensive than taco bell, but everything is tasty. :) I'd recommend going in the summer when you can enjoy the patio, but it's cozy in the winter to warm up with some hot food. It's in close walking distance to many bars if you want to grab a drink or glass of wine elsewhere after dinner without having to drive/park again.
(4)Alyssa F.
Great guacamole, good margaritas, good food. I love the atmosphere here, and loved eating outside on the patio one time during the summer (great first date!). However they are a little dodgy when it comes to their reservation policy. They definitely take them all through open table (available here on their yelp page!), but if you call them, most of the time they will tell you that they don't take reservations at all. The wait on a weekend night can get upto a couple of hours, but the bar is always open seating and the outside patio is on a different wait list, so definitely try out those options if you can't get in on open table.
(4)Julie T.
I really love Nada. The atmosphere is so fun for a fun night out or as a laid back hang out spot. Their guacamole and salsa is delicious and they have great drinks. (good coffee for brunch time too). I like going for dinner or brunch because both menus have great items to choose from. It is a little more expensive but the ambiance makes it worth it. They also have a great patio that is fun for people watching.
(4)Kendra B.
Excellent choice for Mexican cuisine. I have been here a couple of times and it's always very good and worth the price. Nada is a the whole package with great food, cocktails, and ambiance. I usually get the tacos but have also had the Mexican mac & cheese which is a great option as well. Also I highly recommend the sangria. Overall a great dining experience.
(5)Sarah A.
I originally had a so-so experience. I came in 5 minutes before happy hour began and was not offered a menu. It's a long story. Anyways, I tried contacting a manager several times. I received an apology email. So, I posted a bad Yelp review. Apparently, that got someone's attention. They stopped into my hotel with dinner for myself and my employees and also gave me a gift card to one of the other restaurants I reviewed on Yelp. That was very thoughtful of them.. too bad it was only after my review that they decided to do something about the bad service I had received. Anyways, the food is really good- if not a bit pricey. Tacos were outstanding but the margarita was kind of weak. Overall, I give them 3 stars.
(3)Stan S.
First of all, do not be mislead, this is a fine angelo/mexican/Baja fusion place to eat, it is by no means however a Mexican menu as most of us who have travelled in the southwest might know. The crowd is for sure a well toned, tanned and hip crowd and the decor for sure reflects that. I thought the noise level much too high and the choice of music better suited to some thump-thump club in the alternative lifestyle part of town. The service was very good. Now after all that bitching, the tacos excellent and the Baja tacos in particular were excellent, some of the best I have ever had, and yes, I have had Baja tacos in Baja. One prominent Yelper said the guacamole would make you cry, but perhaps it was a bit of onion in their eye, the green confection was good, but not make you cry good, for me, a bit too much lemon or lime in it. The chips however were clearly made on site and very fresh and tasty. I had a good meal here and its a causal place aside from the noise level.
(4)Tim L.
Ok, so I tried this place again. Once again the food was very good, but the service was terrible. I felt like the bartender was annoyed that she actually had to bring me food and drink. So sad as this place could be so much better. I will not be returning for awhile. Maybe they will hire some better customer service oriented staff.
(2)Prasad K.
We went on a Saturday night and surprisingly, we could get in without any reservation or wait. We really liked the atmosphere and drinks were amazing, my wife ordered a Mango margarita and it was amazing and well made. We ordered chips and three salsas for appetizers and I really liked the hot salsa. We ordered Chicken Fajitas and shared. Everything was good. We will definitely go back with Friends again.
(5)Jen B.
I LOVE nada! I crave the vegetarian tacos. They are made perfectly with so much flavor! It is a fun environment. I love going there on a date or with a group of girlfriends! One of my favorite spots in Cincinnati!
(5)Terry J.
Nada is a nice contemporary Mexican restaurant with an energetic atmosphere in a good location. My wife and I and four other family members ate dinner there on a Friday night in June 2014. The host seated us upstairs in this two-story restaurant. The servers, dressed in casual uniforms but neat in appearance, seemed to enjoy working at Nada, and did not appear distracted but focused on serving their guests. They appear knowledgeable and attentive but not annoyingly attentive. Our server was pleasant, polite, and accommodating, thus causing us to be relaxed and to feel un-rushed. We ordered a simple appetizer of house-made corn chips and fire roasted tomato salsa. Although the chips were fried and a bit salty, they were warm, fresh, and tasty nonetheless. Perhaps the chef should trash the salsa recipe. If you are used to eating salsa with tasty chunks of tomato, onions, and green peppers, this is not it. For this salsa lacks flavor and has a soupy consistency as if the cooking staff over blended the ingredients. For the most part, we ate the tasty chips without the salsa. I was surprised how quickly our server brought my order for a grilled Mexican adobo rubbed pork chop. My eyes noticed the soft crust of spicy adobo rub that enveloped the thick grilled two-inch bone-in center pork chop, and the hot juices oozing from the chop as I sliced its tender flesh. My mouth experienced an extremely tender texture of juicy meat bursting with flavor. The main flavor of the spicy adobo-rubbed pork chop, paired well with the layering flavors of the savory sweet mashed plantain. The chef platted the pork chop on a pillow of yellowish mashed plantain that enlightened my mouth with its creamy texture. The flavorful spicy pork chop with its tender texture and the enhanced layers of the savory and sweet flavors of the mashed plantain with its smooth creamy texture provided a neutralizing balance. The multiple flavors and textures of the pork chop and mashed plantain enhanced and played off of each other perfectly, making it a well thought out dish and this restaurant arguably deserving of three and a half stars. Nada is excellently located on 6th and Walnut in downtown Cincinnati, adding to the excitement of being downtown. The temperature of the restaurant is friendly, trendy, and fun. The lighting in the dining areas is just right. While the food is not superb, it is tasty, flavorful, and filling. I will most likely return to this restaurant and reorder the pork chop dish or experience the Yucatan Chicken and perhaps the Mexican Mac 'n' Cheese.
(3)Meghan E.
Aaron our waiter had a terrific personality! He knew the the menu well and seemed to enjoy what he was doing. The hot temperatures outside made our food taste even more delicious!...And motivated me to order a second Mimosa.
(4)Malavika R.
Nada.....nada...you surprise me! We arrived here en route to Indianapolis looking for a quick lunch. In our sleep deprived/"anxious to get home" state of mind. Despite of it being peak lunch hour, we were seated promptly (*brownie points!) The staff was prompt to take our orders and sharp enough to give us pointers about the lunch fare.. The menu is interesting..an impressive collection of traditional Mexican food interspersed with personal touches which really gives it some "Zing". The time we were waiting for our food, our server was very attentive. At one point, she apologized profusely for the delay as the kitchen was backed up (*brownie point). The owner then came to our table and explained that our ticket was misplaced but lunch would be on the house (by then we had waited for almost 30 minutes)... Alright..I don't rate this place because of the free food...I WOULD NOT have qualms paying for the food because it was delicious... every little morsel of it. I give it a good rating because despite of being extremely busy, they were willing to accommodate diners without any issues. The service was par excellence.. despite of it being someone else's fault, the owner was humble enough to chat with us and explain the situation....calmly.. Owning up to your mistakes, I believe is the hardest thing to do, no matter who you are. I knock off a few points because of the following reasons: unlike a traditional Mexican place, the chips and salsa is served as an appetizer...which threw me off just a little bit! Secondly, the place is a tad more expensive...two shrimp tacos with a side salad/ bean puree was $14 (food was good so this point may be disregarded). It may get a lil crazy during lunch hour.. All in all.. If I'm back in Cinci... I will come back for more! :)
(4)Bridget S.
"Nada" is a great name for this place. "Nada" reason to go there! Seriously, we waited about 30 minutes for a table to become available. The place wasn't even that busy. That was ok though. We then we waited for table to get bussed for about another 15 min. Questionable. Then we were seated for at least 20 min with not one visit from a server. When we got up to leave and told the hostess staff why, we got "Nada" response. "Nada" means "nothing" right? Well we ate "nada" and had to leave to go somewhere nearby for a hurried late lunch. Won't be going back to Nada. You lost at least three customers today.
(1)Nicole D.
This place is pretty amazing, especially if you are planning to hit a show at the Arnoff. The guacamole is spectacular.
(4)Kim W.
I've been here a few times. Best part is probably the vibe and the location. The food and service is tolerable - not bad but not remarkable. This time I had a sparkling sangria, my friend had a mixed drink and the guys had beers. All decently good but pricey for what you get. We tried the shrimp tacos, fish tacos, enchiladas, and tuna salad. I ordered the tuna salad because the waiter described it as "seared ahi tuna on greens" and was disappointed that the dish arrived with canned tuna mixed through out. It didn't taste bad but it was not at all what I was expecting. This definitely isn't a bad place, but it's not such a spectacular find either. Nice outdoor patio.
(3)Amanda G.
We go to Nada for work lunches from time to time. It's very yummy, but portion sizes are dainty. It's also a little pricey for what you get - but I expect that in a downtown restaurant. Overall, I am pleased with the experience. And I keep going back again and again.
(4)Jennifer K.
I really wanted to love this place. I like this restaurant, but I can do without it. Their food is decent, but often times is too salty. The Good: What I loved about Nada is the ambiance. I came here for my birthday in August and again in October. During my birthday, we sat outside and I enjoyed the patio area. The inside of the restaurant is well decorated and feel likes a hip, upscale restaurant. The staff is very friendly. Although it is a bustling restaurant, you can still have a conversation with the person across from you and it doesn't feel crowded. The ceviche here is awesome. Flavorful, slightly sweet, tart, good quality fish. I really loved the ceviche. The chips and salsa are good too. The salsa is great. The chips are too salty, but if you lightly tap the chips against a plate, the salt comes right off. I've never had a bad meal here and everything that Ive ever ordered has at least been decent. Oversalting their food is a recurring theme at Nada's. The Mediocre: The two times that I've been here for dinner, I haven't loved or really enjoyed what I got for my main meal. I've ordered the shrimp tacos and grilled salmon dish. The shrimp in the tacos was grilled and had no seasoning. It was accompanied with a salad (which was delicious) and the tortillas were not grilled. There was no textural contrast (grilled shrimp, plain tortillas, nothing crispy to accompany the tacos). The tacos were very...one note. I swear Im not as much of a food snob as I come off in this review!!! :) I just felt like there was no imagination with the tacos. They were ok, but if I feel like I can make them at home, thats a problem. The salmon dish that I got was just ..ok. The salmon was overcooked and way salty. The salmon by itself was not very good, but it came with a corn salad. The corn and the salad together were decent. That corn salad is very good. We also ordered the cheese sliders the second time we came here. Good, but nothing Mexican about it (except that it had some heat). Nothng exceptional and they have better options for apps. My husband got the chicken corn enchiladas. Good dinner, but again, too salty. Overall, I like this place, but this isn't my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati.
(3)Halide T.
It's one of those posh places where you need to pay for chips and salsa but don't let that turn you off from this place.They have a modern and upscale take on Mexican food but you will NOT miss the authentic Mexican flavors. Those chips we paid for were crispy and fresh and salsa was full of flavor. We ordered a side of guacamole and I could say that no one was complaining! Pork belly tacos were crispy yet had a melt-in-my-mouth feel. Considering the price I paid for those tacos, I did hope to have a few more toppings or some sort of a small side of pico de gallo or something extra. One of my friend had the tasting of cazuela, served in three miniature pots. Though they seemed small, don't let that fool you because those little pots sure hold a good amount of food. And to complement all this deliciousness, we had a pitcher of refreshing margarita! Our server was very attentive but not overwhelming, which is something I appreciate. We arrived here right before 5 pm on a Saturday and were surprised to find several small groups of people already waiting by the door. We didn't have a reservation but were seated promptly. Within 15 minutes, the place was packed with a good number of people. Considering that, probably a reservation will be necessary if we decide to go later in the evening next time.
(4)Courtney K.
Nada is just so, so good. The dishes are delicious, and the price is very, very reasonable given the high quality of the dining experience. I love the ambiance, love the food, and the price makes it a great business lunch. The guacamole and chips are really good. My favorite dish is the chicken and corn enchiladas. The only thing standing between Nada and a 5-star rating in my book is that I find the menu to be not hugely creative. That's a small quibble, though- Nada is all-around great.
(4)Diana D.
Visiting in the area and since Bakersfield had an hour wait we decided to try this place for lunch on a Saturday. I was definitely not impressed! It's not authentic and more tex mex plus the service was horrible. This is a Mexican restaurant yet when my family and I walked in (we're Hispanic) we were made to feel unwelcome by the hostess when the first thing that came out of her mouth in a frigid tone was "Do you a reservation?" Not a hello or a welcome to Nada, she was just rude in my opinion. Not sure if it was something towards us or if she is miserable working there as we did see her escort other people to their tables with a miserable face! Our waiter was also aloof and looked spaced out. The water guy was the only nice person there that made us feel welcomed. The food came out quick and it was decent nothing out of this world..I've definitely had better! Definitely wouldn't waste my time or money there ever again!
(2)Anando S.
Best part is the availability of lots of local beers. Very nice ambiance and decor. Food is good too but there is a slight discrepancy between their online menu and what's actually available. Might be a wait to find a good seat.
(4)Vince M.
I was going on a business lunch, and being unfamiliar with the area, an associate picked the place promising me some "upscale Mexican". After that description, I had no idea what to expect, but I ended up walking away very happy. I would definitely recommend the place. Not overly expensive (you're gonna spend about 12$ on whatever you get) for lunch, especially for what your getting. I got the poblano with a fried egg, which was absolutely delicious. Everyone else at my table got different meals, all of which looked and smelled amazing. It seemed that everyone enjoyed their meals. Nada is not at all what I expect when I think Mexican. While they offer things such as taco's and enchiladas, they manage to do so in a much "trendier" fashion (for example-my one friend got baja fish tacos, and loved them). I am not sure how they pulled it off, but Nada turned what is usually a simple concept (tacos etc) and created something that actually was kind of upscale. Lastly, enjoy the chips and guac. This might've been my favorite part. The chips are a bit heavier than what you would normally expect, and are definitely fried, but they are so addictingly good. I will absolutely come back next time I am on a trip to Cincinnati, Nada's was easily worth it.
(4)Larry P.
On my first visit I gave this place 5 stars, but today I'm taking them down to a 2, because it has definitely slipped. For starters, I ordered a margarita. it came in a tiny glass with mostly ice and was priced at $7. I finished it in a few sips and my waiter asked if I wanted a refill. I asked that he bring the second one with less ice. When it came, the same tiny glass was only half full. When I complained, he said all of the margaritas were pre-made and that he wasn't allowed to pour more. At this rate I would need 4-5 of these tiny things at $7 a pop just to get the equivalent of a regular margarita. Ouch. Next we ordered chips and salsa. We had to pay for them, which I normally don't mind, because it means they are higher quality. In this case, though, we got a basket of broken chips that were way over-salted and some very average salsa. We couldn't finish them. For entree I got the enchiladas, which were recommended by the waiter and sounded like an interesting mixture of corn, cheese and meat on the menu. When I got them though, they were mostly corn. Not the nicely pureed corn you normally get in Mexican dishes - but whole corn kernels in a heavy cream sauce. I will say the atmosphere is nice. This is a hip, happening place. Unfortunately, management seems to know that and doesn't seem to care anymore about delighting its patrons. When I mentioned our disappointment to our waiter, he just shrugged us off.
(2)Sheena D.
Not bad for a downtown restaurant and although I don't frequent downtown a lot, I don't know any other nice Mexican (or Mexican fusion) restaurant. The pros: - Gluten free chips on request! - Great sangria's - Service The cons: - The price (although comparable to any other downtown restaurant) - The lack of specials/promos/happy hour - Parking (again part of the downtown aspect) - Chips would have been good, but WAY to much salt (which killed the enjoyment of the salsas and guacamole)
(3)Tyler T.
I came here for dinner with co-workers after not getting in the last time we were in Cincinnati. I was very excited to eat here. We started the meal with a large order of guacamole (amazing flavor and very fresh), salsa (again very fresh and delicious), home made chips, Mexican mac and cheese with poblano cream (absolutely amazing and incredibly flavorful) and finally the sopes (pulled short rib, very tender). I was getting full after the apps but we ordered three orders of tacos with the intentions of each getting one of the three tacos per order. We split the crispy pork belly tacos on flour tortillas (pork belly was phenomenal), the Baja fish tacos on flour tortillas, and the barbacoa pork tacos on corn tortillas. The portions were huge and it was all very flavorful. We were so full we had four tacos left over between three of us. The waiter was really cool and hooked us up with an order of churros on the house. The churros were so crunchy on the outside and melt in your mouth on the inside with sugar and honey all over. These were incredible. I was so pleased and so full after dinner. I'm very glad I was able to eat here. I will def be back the next time I'm in Cincinnati. Love it!
(5)Tiffanie N.
I was in town for a wedding and decided to treat myself to brunch. I'm not a fan of Mexican food, so this was me venturing out of the box. I'm glad I did, the good was great. I ended up having the grapefruit margarita which was deliciously refreshing. I also had the French toast which melted in my mouth. I'd never heard of goetta until I came here so I had to try it, yum! Overall, this was a great stop before heading to the airport to fly home!
(5)Rachel R.
I love the atmosphere of Nada. It's one of my favorite downtown restaurants and bars. Great for lunch with coworkers or dinner with friends on a Saturday night. Their chips are irresistible and the tacos are fresh to death.
(4)Perry H.
NADA is one of our 'go to' places. The food is wonderful and the staff has always treated us well. A must if you head downtown often.
(5)Ryan Z.
I'm disappointed to see Nada falling off a little bit. I think they got overconfident and began to rest on their laurels. This place used to be packed by 5:30 every evening. I was in here at 6pm on a Friday and it was absolutely dead. Maybe 20 customers in the entire place. I watched one table have to go to the hostess stand to pay for their meal because they couldn't find their server. I was even more disappointed to see the changes to their happy hour menu. Gone are the guacamole (some of the best in the city), sopes (sp?... absolutely delicious) and other favorites. In their place are tacos. That's it. This used to be one of my favorite happy hour spots but will now be relegated to occasional weekend brunches. There's just way too many other options providing far more value all over the city. FWIW, I'm still excited to see what their new cousin around the corner has to offer.
(3)Rich M.
Chips and salsa were so so, guacamole was good. I ordered the fish tacos. The fish was fried and tasted mostly of greasy oil and the fish potions were very small. 2 tacos for $12 was a bit much. Nice atmosphere but food was marginal and over priced.
(2)Bill E.
Came here one night with a friend as he won a gift card. We were greeted promptly by our server and he took our drink order, I ordered a mojito and my friend had a hard cider. We started off with chips and salsa and then decided to order some tacos and share a braised dish. We split an order of pork belly tacos, and barboca and ordered the braised lamb dish. Everything was very good, the prices are higher here because they are downtown in a prime location and people will pay those prices. I really want to come here for brunch.
(4)Matthew S.
Food was pretty good. Fine meal for the price.
(3)Lindsay D.
First time at Nada and my meal was amazing. A group of 6 shared chips, guacamole, salsa and the most amazing queso dip ever!! I ordered the sparkling sangria which was also a hit. I ordered the sliders as a meal and was beyond pleased. The meal comes with 2 thick and deliciously seasoned patties and great roasted potatoes.
(5)Matt C.
Terrific service at this yummy Mexican restaurant right downtown in Cincinnati. Chips and salsa were very fresh and the guacamole too! A nice margarita started it to! I had a taquito which was good but a little mushy. The three tacos were great. The server indulged be and brought three diff ones (menu says three of one kind). I had the chicken, fish and carnitas ones. All really delicious and different so great variety. The butterscotch flan was a perfect ending.
(4)Carolyn B.
So, I've been reading the yelp reviews on how great nada is and decided to give it a try before we saw a show today. It gave my son a chuckle on how even from the outside you could tell that there was a hip, trendy vibe. We started off great with the chips, salsa and guacamole - those chips were amazingly fresh and tasty! What a difference in flavor and the guac was really good, too, but I didn't find much inspiration in the fire roasted tomato salsa. Because a girlfriend recommended I try a pink grapefruit margarita and I am an obedient friend, I ordered one and found it both visually appealing and refreshingly enjoyable. Of course, when you are making a drink made with Madisono's pink grapefruit sorbet, how can you possibly go wrong? Who was the genius that thought that up? It was after that point where I got off the love train and sat at the station of mediocrity with the fish tacos. They were good, but just that. Sorry. To be fair, my son ordered the nada sliders along with a pacifico beer and he relished what he got. I did like the fact that they asked if we were going to the matinee and kept watch on our time for us.
(4)Brian G.
First time I've ever had Tinga Poblana Cazuela (chicken & chorizo + spicy tomato + poblano rice add fried egg) and I'm sold for life. Outrageously good. Also, they have great local beers
(5)Arlene S.
Could you say out of this world?! The chips/salsa & guacamole was exactly that! The margarita suprema was tasty and the tacos were BOMB!! We tried the fish tacos and the Barbacoa tacos. Barbacoa won all the way! Full of flavor & tender meat! I will definitely come back to this place if I'm ever in Cincinnati again!
(5)Todd S.
Love their happy hour. Good margaritas, good chips and salsa.
(4)Karen D.
Spent many an evening at Nada celebrating my own birthday a few times I think three years in a row, friends birthdays and when friends come to town. You can't go wrong with their drink menu and my favorite - passionfruit caipirinha - try one and you will be hooked! Homemade chips, salsa & guac, plus the best mac & cheese around with a kick. Tacos are good, but the best item on the menu which just melts in your mouth are the chicken & corn enchiladas.
(4)Katy L.
I travel to Cincy a lot (I live in California) you'd think I would never find good mexican in the Midwest but I think Nada is great. Upscale Southwest Food, incredible guacamole, don't remember when I've had any that was better.
(4)Kim M.
Great chips, guacamole and salsa but horrible service. We had reservation at 7:30pm on a Friday night but sat until almost 9pm and the waiter had yet to come and take our order for dinner. The place was crowded but not too busy to where they couldn't take our order. The menu looks great with a good selection of meat and seafood. But we are very disappointed with the service and won't be coming back.
(1)Collette M.
We had a wonderful experience!! One of the best things of the place was the atmosphere, full of people eating, drinking, talking and generally having a good time. I knew I was going to be critical of the food since I had yet to experience good Latin food in Cincy. We were not disappointed. We started off with the chips and salsa. For $2 I would have gladly paid more. They were fresh hot and super crunchy. I had a Nadarita which was decent not the most memorable margarita I've ever had but definetly not the worst. And for the entree the porkbelly tacos which were super yummy. My boyfriend had the streak fagitas and they were equally good. I ordered a side of beans poblano which I ate with a spoon right from the bowl (and used the chips making it an imprompt to dip). For desert we had the tres leches that was sooo good. Yes the place is a little "pricy" but it is so hard to find good food in Cincy that I would gladly pay the price to go home satisified.
(5)Manu M.
We went to the brunch at Nada the other day. It was not a planned brunch date, but they were serving brunch till (i think) 3. We had some time to kill before we hit AMC for the movie. My wifey had previous experience here and warned me about the dish size being small. I did not care for the warning. I ordered chorizo and egg enchiladas, and my wife ordered shrimp tacos (not a part of brunch menu, but they obliged) In about 10 minutes our dishes arrived, with a warning for me, "sir this plate is verrry hot" The sausage and egg created a tasty melange in my mouth. It was sophisticated mexican, with lower amount of cheese. Wifey dear's shrimp tacos were also superb, of which i had one. I like my brunches big, so the enchiladas were not enough for me, I ordered a french toast to be shared between us. After tasting the Vitor's french toast, my bar for the french toast is sky-high. This french toast did not beat it. We even felt that this was an imitation. But this was a tadd too sweet for my palate. This sweet and savory combination did not work for me, I had some weird feelings in my stomach later on. But on their own both dishes were 3.5 out of 5. Must..resist.. temptation to mix and match.
(3)Elizabeth R.
Nice - I've only been for lunch, but the service was awesome, the food was good (no spice in the salsa, though) and the ambiance is nice. The chips are fabulous, and the chicken tortilla soup - while it has a nice flavor, has weird tasting chicken - I think it might come from a bag. Good location, though, and a good drink menu (which sadly, I did not indulge in).
(4)J K.
We were in Cincinnati for a half-marathon weekend, never having been before, and with absolutely no idea of where to go. We stumbled upon Nada one evening and were blown away by the food, service, and price. As a family with serious food allergies, they took care of us and made sure we were good to go. We liked it so much that evening, we went right back to it the next day. What a great restaurant!
(5)Christine M.
Nada has solid food, good atmosphere, and can usually be counted on for a quiet, slightly sophisticated, evening. Until most recently, when I went here with a slightly raucous and intoxicated group for a birthday (a bit of a misstep most likely), things have been geared towards a crowd that appreciates good food, tasty drinks, and wants to be able to talk to their group. Things can get pricey, but for an evening out downtown, it seems appropriate enough. I apologize to the universe for tainting that experience for those who were at Nada at 11:30 this particular night, but I guess that's a risk in serving food late? Maybe our server got a good 'drunk tip' (here's to hoping...). Being sober and hungry it was a nice moment for me, among our attempts to bar hop, and once again, the food didn't disappoint. The location near the Aronoff seems like it might be a predominantly pre/post arts/culture crowd, though the proximity to more club/dance like venues could, from time to time, encroach on that vibe. I'm here to say it's happened at least once. All this said, our waiter, to his wonderful credit (wish I could remember his name) was great dealing with this dynamic- bringing food, chips, drink refills, etc. The group behind us, not so thrilled to have our group in their proximity, didn't feel the same, but he seemed nonplussed by it, so I didn't stress too much. As food goes, the tacos (all of them) are good, ropa viejo is really tasty, and the margaritas (blood orange most recently) never disappoint. Things can get expensive if you order a lot, but the food is high quality and has always suited my needs, tastes, and desires. It's not a typical 'family style Mexican restaurant', so know that going in; they serve (great!) chips and salsa but they aren't complementary. It's more of a tapas meets tacos stand experience, and a good one at that! The patio, on a nice day, is really pleasant and quiet enough to actually hear the group you're with. I'm now craving a taco....and a trip to Nada...guess that says it all.
(4)Maggie T.
Pork belly tacos and their version of bloody Mary...that's all you need!! This is one of my favorite places in Cincinnati.
(5)Sarah R.
YUMMY. My first time in Cinci... I'm walking around downtown looking for a nice place to have a quaint solo lunch. I stumble upon Nada and naturally I look it up on Yelp. Glowing reviews. So I walk in and take a peek at the menu. Good lord! It's spendy! Do I really want to spend this much at lunchtime?! But the atmosphere was good, the music was good, and they had a patio... So I thought, "what the hell" and I asked for a seat outside. My server was polite, professional, & super friendly. He made recommendations and told me a little about the menu. A well trained staff is always a good sign. So I ended up ordering the chips and salsa since they don't give them automatically. Normally this would bug me... but this is not a typical Mexican restaurant. It's a fancy shmancy fusion-y Mexican restaurant. So I let it go and ordered the chips & salsa along with some chicken tacos with a side salad. (What can I say? I like to eat) OMG the chips and salsa were to die for. The side salad was delicious and the tacos had incredible flavor. The only lil gripe I have about anything at all would be that everything was quite salty. Whatever cheese they use on those tacos was suuuper salty. But I would get all of it again in a hot minute. So obviously it wasn't too big of a deal. I may have spent a pretty penny on lunch. But it was worth it. Excellent food, service, and atmosphere. Highly recommended!
(5)Cara L.
Oh, I get it. They must call this place "Nada" because after stuffing yourself silly with freshly prepared corn chips, homemade salsa and guac, you can fit "nada" more in your stomach. Well, lucky for me I found room for like 2 bites of the most delicioso corn and chicken enchiladas I've ever had. Cheesy, warm, gooey goodness with a sauce I wanted to roll my body in.... yea, it was that good. And like I mentioned before, tortilla chips and salsa made in-house--now that's what I'm talking about. A lot like yelper Denise Y, we came in with a large group of about 10 ladies and were seating just minutes past our reservation time. Pretty impressive seeing as this place isn't huge. The server was also really accommodating, though after being in the service industry myself, I could tell he had brushed up on his sales techniques. What? I'll explain: - First thing he asks our group as we're seated: "Would any of you like a drink?" Then he proceeded to list off his favorites. Why, yes, we do! Little did many of us know these would come with a $10-12 price tag. I know this tactic well. Touché, server man. Touché. - Example numero dos: Not much longer after he got our drink orders, he asked if we'd like chips, salsa and guacamole for the table without giving anyone time to eye up the menu. He "forgot" to mention that all three things came with an extra charge. Totally cool, dude... but just know that I know what you're up to. Especially since most people would at least assume the chips and salsa were complimentary. Besides, the guacamole was not worth $7, considering I can make a yummier version at home. Other than the servers sales-i-ness, the meal was delicious, served in the perfect amount of time and resulted in lots of painfully full tummies (and leftovers!) All servers, bus boys and hostesses were super-smiley, helpful and friendly. Another plus? No complaints about splitting up the bills, which avoided some awkwardness. Overall, I'd visit this restaurant again if I were in the Cincy area. In fact, coming here made me want to stay and hang out for a while. But, alas, we were whisked off to Newport. Next time, Cincy....
(4)Nat Y.
Came here for the second time. Being a west coast native I'm a bit picky about this kind of food. I tried the barbacoa, pork belly, and salmon tacos. While I wouldn't call any of the food super authentic, the bottom line is that the food tastes good. Particularly enjoyed the pork belly taco with egg ($1 per egg per taco), and would definitely come back. My only general complaint is that nothing is spicy enough.
(4)Mary A.
I sat outside with a group of 5 friends for Sunday brunch. The atmosphere was nice with the seating far enough away from people passing by on the sidewalk and the street. It was relatively quiet for being in the middle of downtown. The food was good, although the portions were small. This was fine with the food, as there is not always a need to leave so stuffed you can't move. However, I wish the juice servings had been a bit more generous. Visited September 2013
(4)Andrew F.
I ate there for the first time last weekend on the Saturday before Easter. It was a great experience. The food was great. The service was top notch, if anything maybe a little too attentive. But I would highly recommend it.
(4)Alexander P.
In my opinion, Nada is just average. Factor in the price, and I find it a bit below average. My experience: 1) Slow service 2) Long wait time for a table, even with reservations. I expected this because, you know, it's a trendy downtown restaurant. 3) Expensive drinks (again, expected). Mid-quality (not expected). 4) DRY, overcooked food. I still attribute this to be a fluke, but it tasted as though my food sat under a heat lamp for an hour before I was served. It was dry, tasteless, and on par with Chipotle for quality. Oh, and I spent $18. I hope this restaurant row area has more to offer, because Nada was 'nothing' special.
(2)Cindi S.
I tried the tacos since so many Yelpers raved about them. I ordered 1 barbacoa taco, 1 shrimp taco and 1 pork belly taco. The barbacoa turned out to be my favorite. It was a bit spicy and the taco shell was lightly fried. The shrimp taco was also quite good but would have been better with the lightly fried shell. Although I enjoyed the pork belly taco it was not as good as everyone said it would be. My main complaint was the sauce t was served with turned it into mushy pork belly instead of crispy pork belly. That said, It was a very good dining experience and the service was great. I recommend dining with friends so you can sample more dishes as the serving size is very generous. Oh, and the chips and salsa were some of the best ever.
(4)Jon M.
The food was easily 5-star caliber, but presented in a very casual and relaxing setting. Nada is not, let me clarify, a 5-star restaurant (the servers wear jeans)...but the food outkicks its coverage, so-to-say. Everything on the menu that I tried was delicious, from the salad to the main course to the side of mashed plantains (hint: get the plantains you won't regret it). As other reviewers have noted, this isn't your traditional mexican fare, it's got more of a fusion twist but that's what makes it stand out. They also serve perfectly sized portions. Nada looks like just another standard, almost-chain, downtown eatery...but the cuisine will have me coming back for another visit the next time I'm in town. Go there!
(4)Troy S.
When I think about a great restaurant, I think about one that isn't afraid to make a statement. Nada does this with a tiny menu, becuase they are just that confident in their specialty dishes. These are the best tacos I have ever had, hands down, and I've had a lot of tacos in my lifetime. The chips and salsa are surprisingly amazing while you anxiously await the delicious meal to come. The atmosphere is, well, unique. It's described as "Modern Mexican" cuisine and has an odd structure on the inside, and the best experiences I have had were on warm nights eating on the patio area, people watching a busy downtown intersection. Great tequilla selection, as should be expected. The service is pretty top notch, and while it isn't the fastest food around, it's well worth the wait. It's pricey, but quite possibly the best Mexican you will ever have.
(5)Jenna C.
I love Nada. I rarely have a bad meal here and I find the service very attentive. The Mexican mac n cheese is fantastic (really creamy). They have great guac too. I've never had a bad taco here either, of the many I've tried. Their sangria is some of the best I've had.
(5)Bryant M.
A simple menu + delicious food & drinks + beautiful location = a great date spot! The Mister and I recently took a weekend trip to Cincinnati to see Wicked, and we had scoped out Nada as our dinner spot after the play since it was highly-rated and right beside the Aronoff. And boy am I glad we chose this place! First of all, Nada is beautiful; it's dark, candle-lit, and very romantic. The servers were super-friendly, and everything we ordered was very prompt. The menu is incredibly simple with only a few items on it, but I'm totally okay with this if everything is delicious. And everything we ordered was, indeed, delicious! We both ordered a caipirinha and the short rib tacos, and I couldn't have been happier with either! And our bill total was about $40. A little pricy, but totally worth it. I would most definitely go back to Nada the next time we're in town! Oh, and did I mention the actress who played Glinda was sitting right beside us having dinner? Swoon...
(4)Ella E.
Went to Nada for dinner and was expecting better quality mexican food for the price. I would say this place should have three money signs, not two. The drinks are expensive and the tacos are overpriced (considering the overhead on each taco). I think this is a great place for the trendy atmosphere but not a place to go to find authentic mexican food.
(3)Ashley B.
I love love love Nada's mushroom tacos. Their chips and salsa and guacamole are always something I crave. I unfortunately almost always have problems with their service. One time, a waiter completely neglected us because we looked young. I'm a good tipper, and it offends me when someone assumes I will not tip well because I am young. Another time, a waiter didn't come back with my friend's change and he charged my card DOUBLE the amount! I had to call the next day to complain. I also heard him complaining about my friend to the bartender because she didn't understand a menu item. I told him that I heard him and he looked shocked. After this experience, I swore I would never go back. But, I am craving the tacos an the guac, so I might go back some other time.
(3)Lauren M.
Not sure why everyone loves this place. The service is slow every time we go. The food is decent but not great. The servers hardly notice you flagging them down let alone that you'd like another drink or they delivered the wrong meal. If they could put a few more servers on the floor their ticket costs would go up and they'd make more money and I'd consider returning.
(1)Eric B.
Nada's an interesting spot for me. On one hand, I tend to agree that this is a restaurant that really recommends Cincinnati to outsiders. It's a well done concept with a tidy total package - decor, menu ambition, lunch/dinner/late-night scene, and excellent food quality. The only problem is... I just never really want to go. I'm not sure quite why, to be honest. The salads I've had are excellent. The tacos are tasty (but Bakersfield gives them a run for the money). The guac is rich and satisfying. The squash soup was really satisfying. But something gives me pause. I think it might be the price-point. As good as it is, I only want to go when I'm not paying. So, either I'm cheap, or Nada is a bit dear. That said, if someone else is paying, you should probably dine here. It is, after all, pretty great. If you're paying, you might consider not inviting me along - I'm going to order both soup and salad, because they're fantastic.
(4)McKenzie G.
First, the food is pretty great. Don't trick yourself into thinking you'll be transported to Mexico upon tasting your first bite--it's quite American, but that seems to work here. It's delicious. But the service could really use some help. Both times I've been, the servers outside seem to consider themselves at a separate restaurant from those inside. "Do they speak our language?" I can imagine them asking each other. And as a customer, I'd like to contribute a solid "No, I don't think they do". I mean do they communicate at all?? Our group was bounced between the inside and outside crew and finally after a 45 minute wait we were seated. And that's when the "complimentary" queso and guacamole arrived. "Wow," we all thought, "How nice!". Until every one of our 6 girls was billed over 2 dollars. That's some expensive complimentary food. Besides the long wait and the weird bill, I will say that I've never left Nada feeling disappointed (in my belly). I gladly shell out 30 dollars or more whenever I go because 1) the margaritas are great and 2) the food is worth paying a little more for.
(3)Casey M.
This is my favorite restaurant by far in Cincinnati. The food is always good. During busy hours, the service can be somewhat slow, and the atmosphere can get very loud sure to the layout of the restaurant. During nice weather, it is wonderful to eat on the patio. The vegetarian tacos are hard to beat. The prices are fair for most items. Though they charge for chips and salsa ($2) it is an excellent price for the quality. Their house margarita is wonderful and my husband loves the mojito. All three of the sangria are delicious, but I prefer the margarita. I haven't tried the cazuela yet, but plan to if I can tear myself away from the tacos.
(5)Jessica K.
I always love Nada. As a vegetarian I found great options. The mushroom tacos are amazing and the drinks are great. The service is always wonderful.
(5)Shama M.
Not good for what it's supposed to be AT ALL. The food is very bland.
(2)Jim T.
Stopped here for a lunch with friends on a day I took off on a weekday. It was quite busy with local business people, although I would find it a little heavy for a lunch before returning to a day in the office. Service was a little slow at first, but very friendly and helpful. The food was really great. Queso was very good with what appeared to be home made chips. For lunch I had beef Tamals, and others had tacos and salads. We loved it all and the sides all were delicious.
(4)Katie W.
Nada is definitely a go to spot for me! Great to take friends to that are in town visiting. I always go with the Barbacoa tacos and also get guacamole and chips which includes salsa as well. You get three tacos which may not seem like a ton but everyone I've ever gone with is always satisfied and usually can't even finish their last taco! Margaritas are great as well. Always have wonderful service.
(5)Kyle H.
Nada serves up Mexican dishes with a twist in a modern setting that's casually upscale. Shuttled up a winding staircase, past the small bar upstairs, we were seated in a section of young couples with light wood accents above, and original artworks that melded Warhol with Lichtenstein. The second floor is lively without being loud. A perfect date spot, or reserve the open private room for a group! I was immediately put at ease when I heard Kings of Leon followed by a nikki c. Michael Jackson favorite. (Does Yelp Chicago follow me wherever I go?). Our service also put me at ease, as the water flowed like wine, and we were served seamlessly by two servers. We started off with Nada's signature guacamole, the chips and salsa, and the Mexican Mac 'n' Cheese. The guacamole was great with a hint of lemon, and the salsa had a warm depth without being too spicy. It's complexity was so inviting I kept going back to it even when my meal arrived. The Mexican Mac 'n' Cheese was rich with undertones of poblano pepper. It had just the right amount of spice and might serve as a nice lunch, say on a snow day, actually! For our meal we decided to sample the tacos. The carnitas and pork belly tacos were both interesting, but the crispy pork belly tacos were exceptional. With guacamole, pickled onions, guajillo salsa and cilantro, they just burst with flavor. The pork belly was like a boneless slab of ribs meat in a taco, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, seasoned to perfection. Don't get me wrong, the carnitas tacos were good, but seemed to lack complexity, and needed some enhancing by our order of salsa. There you go! Our price point for the meal and drinks was just over $30/per person. Completely worth it for the atmosphere and excellent food! Nada has an enticing patio with dark wicker furniture, perfect for summer drinks! The bar on the main floor also looked inviting, and their specialty drink menu looked interesting. A great place for happy hour in Cincinnati. Que te pasa, calabasa?Nada, nada, limonada. It's all happening at Nada!
(5)Golnaz P.
We came on a Friday night around 8pm and this place was packed. We snagged a seat at the bar and placed in our drink orders. Soon I was sipping on some delicious sangria. The bartender was very helpful and tried to help us put our orders right so that we would get to try the tacos we wanted and save a few bucks. How thoughtful! We started with the guacamole and it was heavenly. The chips were even great, thick and crispy. I got the shrimp tacos and red fish taco. They had just the right amount of spiciness to them. Everything was great!
(4)F D.
Guac is great, drinks are pricey but yummy, ambiance is wonderful. In terms of the entres there is better mexican in Cincy
(3)Amy K.
The food at Nada is always delicious. I prefer the tacos. And make sure you try the guacamole. Margaritas are great, but don't ignore their good beer list.
(5)JP S.
While the food was fine, my experience there wasn't. Last night (6/12/14), my wife and I were downtown for an event and decided to try out Nada. We were seated immediately and were looking forward to a nice meal. The server took our drink order and the appetizer came a short while later. Next, is where the bad service kicked in. We were ready to order and she walked past us several times, even after I made eye contact with her twice, indicating I was looking for her. After about 10 minutes, she takes our order and she's off again. Five minutes later, two diners were seated next to us and they were also being served by this same person. She promptly takes their drink orders, brings them appetizers and about 10 minutes later, their food arrives. Mind you, our meals have not arrived yet. A couple of minutes later, our meals arrive. My wife and I are not happy at this point. Another five minutes pass and she check on the couple next to us and, seemingly as an afterthought, catches herself and turns to check on us. At this point, I went from decided to pay for our meal and on to needing to talk to the manager. So, the next time our server passes by I decline ordering dessert and, instead, ask for the check and to speak to the manager. After about five minutes, the manager (Chris Smith) arrives and I let him know my dissatisfaction. I explain to him my experience and question if there might be some unwritten "policy" related to certain "types" of customers (my wife and I are persons of color). He picks up on this and is immediately dismissive of not just this notion but of any notion that the service was poor, telling us how they get such rave reviews for their service. However, the two women who had been served before us (both Caucasian) chimed in and said they had both noticed how poor our service was, as well, and were particularly suprised to see that they had been served meals prior to us. Amazingly, Chris now finds our complaint credible and offers to discount our meal. I told him "no thank you" and that I would be paying my bill in full, which I did. I told him I would much rather that he fix the service there, should I ever consider returning there. He then apologized and told me that he wanted me to be satisfied but, I stated "how could that possibly be when you were so dismissive of any concerns I expressed?" I promptly paid my bill, took the business card Chris offered and left. I doubt that I'll be back.
(1)Daniel W.
Nada is a great restaurant that always seems to be hopping. They have a good selection of tappas and a good bar. It is a great place to grab dinner and meet friends. They have a good variety of seating, you can sit outside, upstairs or at the bar.
(4)Michael S.
Went there last night after reading reviews if a great place. Not so much food overpriced. Good portions much horrible taste. Service was good great waiter. But wouldn't recommend at all. Had a $60 tap to pay and left hungry because food wasn't worth eating.
(1)Jose H.
My first time here. My girlfriend and I enjoyed every minute of it. They have the best chips and salsa ever! Really liked their tacos, I recommend you order a few and split them!
(5)J P.
I will give restaurants the stars I think they deserve. Rarely, do i dish out a 5 star, but Nada deserves it! This place is amazing. Great atmosphere - colorful, fun, professional, upscale (without being snooty), and aesthetically appealing. And the food? Some of the most amazing Mexican food I have ever enjoyed. The price is a little higher than other Mexican restaurants, but it is absolutely worth it. They fully deliver. PS get the salsa trio, the best salsas I have ever tasted.
(5)Rachel Eve G.
Had a great dinner here with my husband--we were surprised to be seated within 5 minutes on a Friday evening on the patio. The food was great, the server (Jeff) was knowledgeable and very attentive, and the atmosphere was perfect. The patio was crowded, but not too loud, which I appreciate. We had drinks, guac, and tacos (shrimp and pork belly--I liked the pork belly the best). Oh, and the chips are amazing.
(5)Peter B.
A magnificent interpretation of nouveau Mexican in the tradition of Rick Bayless. Make certain to try one of the many delicious signature drinks before digging into the food. Fresh made guacamole is over the top and tortilla chips cooked on-site will start you off just rite. It is the creative tacos that will steal your heart and warm your stomach. The barbacoa short ribs tacos are not to be missed. The same can be said for mahi mahi tacos that melt in your mouth. For the gringos, try the beef nada sliders. Almost a shame that they are served at a Mexican restaurant as they might be overlooked! The bar scene is electric and the customers are casual couture. Make sure to check out this terrific downtown hotspot!!
(4)Lyn C.
Nada is good, but I think they have some serious competition with Bakersfield now. It seems a little more expensive and prissier in comparison but still good. If you want a fancier taco/marg spot, this would be the perfect place for you. Parking is a bit tricky but I'm no expert at navigating around in the downtown Nati. I'm assuming most people walk here to lunch from their work buildings.
(4)Bob R.
First time to Cincinnati. Being from California, I was skeptical when everyone wanted to get Mexican food. I was pleasantly surprised. We had a sampling menu our waiter pulled together for us. The iron pot stews were a new thing for me. I really enjoyed the mole as well as the pork. The braised meat tacos (carnitas and barbacoa) were terrific and for me, the best thing there. The only thing I didn't really love was the pork chop (pretty dry). The staff was friendly and really attentive. They didn't know a ton about the food they were serving, but I wouldn't expect that from a place of this kind.
(4)Paul H.
Came out to Cincinnati for the first time in my life this past weekend for my cousin's wedding. We had the rehearsal dinner here. As a die hard east coaster, I would have never thought I could have gotten such great Mexican cuisine in Ohio, but wow. Had the Barbacoa tacos which were delicious and swapped one of them for a friend's pork belly taco which was one of the most amazing food items I've had in quite a while. Possibly the best piece of pork product I've had since the bacon appetizer at Peter Luger's. The wait staff was friendly and when we brought in the real skeleton our family keeps for special occasions, no one freaked out or gave us a hard time (we're all sick).
(3)Steven S.
Great brunch spot. Sat outside with my pals Labor Day weekend for delicious drinks and awesome food. Staff was very courteous. A little on the slow side, but worth the wait.
(5)Maria M.
Went to nada for my 2 year anniversary and it was my first time there. We had reservations made for a few months and made a note that it was our anniversary. I was surprised when we got probably the worst table in the place. I am a hostess and totally understand that you can't give everyone great tables because of server sections, but I always try to give birthdays/anniversaries the best seat in the house. Especially on non busy nights like Sunday. We were in the corner sort of by a closet. In hind sight, I probably should have asked to sit outside. I was quickly distracted by our weird table by our super friendly server. She made great menu recommendations and seemed happy to be there. My margarita was amazing (you can tell they use quality ingredients) and my boyfriend enjoyed his Mexican Mule. Both drinks were worth the price - $7 nadarita & $8 mexican mule. Definitely get chips and salsa to start. $2 and very tasty. As for the food - it was good. I wasn't super wowed because I am picky and got grilled chicken tacos (without guac and black bean puree). Since mine were so plain, it just tasted like a lot of other grilled chicken tacos I've had. Still tasty though. My boyfriend said his baja fish tacos were the best he has ever had. I would come back for dinner only on special occasions (because the food/drinks are pricy). For sure going to come to happy hour soon for some discounts and more nadaritas!
(4)Magda C.
Love their patio and grapefruit margaritas. Such a wonderful place for a dinner on a hot night. The lights in the patio are adorable. We tried some of their tacos. Unfortunately, the portion is 3 same tacos and there is no mixed sampler. We could order one taco of any sort, but it was substantially more expensive (6.50$ per one). We still liked it, but would not do it again. The service is very professional and attentive. Definitely worth coming back.
(4)Angela K.
I really love this place for good, honest, well-made mexican food! I've been in here multiple times for private events, happy hours, special occasions on the weekends, etc. The service is always immaculate, the food quality is amazing, and the drinks are yummy! Seriously, their house margarita is one of the best I've ever had because ITS SIMPLE! No nasty mixes in this one! This last week I went in for a late dinner on Thursday with a friend. We had no issues getting a table inside around 8:30 pm. We started with chips, salsa, and queso - all of which are delicious! She had the shrimp tacos which looked so fresh and tasty. She loved them! I had the pork belly tacos. Oh. My. Tastebuds. These tacos were so flavorful, the pork belly fried just right, and the pickled onions were a perfect compliment. I had some queso left over, so that went on them as well. You can't go wrong with adding cheese! I usually get the chicken and corn enchiladas because they are one of the most amazing things on this planet and I usually cannot stand the thought of missing out on the opportunity to have them when I go. I was NOT disappointed that I tried something new! This is not cheap mexican food folks, but the quality, service, and presentation are worth every single penny!
(5)Jessie T.
Dayumm, Nada.. you do host a fine Happy Hour! I came here with my friends about a month ago after they had gone multiple times and had great experiences. We were seated immediately at the bar and there was only one other couple besides the three of us there, so it was a pleasant, relaxed time. I believe happy hour was from 4-6pm.. we got there at 4:30pm. We got the salsa and guacamole with chips to share (salsa chips refillable) and I ordered an order of the Nada fries and a shrimp taco.. everything was fantastic and tasted so fresh! My favorite was the Nada fries, which are quartered red potatoes that are fried and served with a side of green onion sour cream and a sweet chili sauce.. which paired perfectly.. it was a huge portion that could easily be shared between 2 people. Their white sangria was also fantastic and very refreshing. Everything was reasonably priced for happy hour and well worth your buck (I can't recall the exact cost, but I spent no more than $15 total and left very full). I am looking forward to coming here for lunch or dinner for sure!
(4)Randolph W.
Been there twice now on business - once for lunch and once for dinner. Both visits were excellent. This place rocks. One of the best homemade guacamole and chips I've ever had. I could have had about 10 of their house margaritas but figured I needed to show up at my client the next morning for our 8 am meeting. I had the barbacoa tacos for dinner and their salad with chicken at the lunch. Great service. Last night for dinner the place was packed. I will be back.
(5)Zack F.
So, nothing much has changed in terms of my opinion of the food and now that there are so many decent Mexican restaurants in the area, I'm not really compelled to go here for dinner. However, that being said, it's worth it for the location, the atmosphere, and the drinks and appetizers. Also, if the weather's nice, grab a drink from the bar and saunter out to lounge in the seats right out on the street. They do have a good premium tequila selection. I chose to hang out on the patio and read a book with a nice heavy pour of Jose Cuervo Reserva De La Familia. At a hefty $25, it's a splurge, however, again, it's a heavy pour and it's not that easy to get this stuff. Great for a balmy Summer evening outdoors as the sun begins to dip. The patio has good atmosphere with the seating, lighting, and plants. You are at once on the street and reserved from it.
(4)James C.
Started with the guacamole and chips, always a good choice. Moved onto the cheeseburger sliders which were phenomenal. Then went with the chicken and green bean dish. All of this was devoured.
(4)Matt J.
Had a great experience for my first time at Nada's. The atmosphere was great and the service was excellent. My server was very friendly and helpful. The chicken tacos were very good and was the perfect amount of food. Not a bad price either, wasn't overly expensive. Will be back.
(5)Logan F.
We stopped here for a quick lunch after the Reds game. The chicken quesadillas were fantastic, probably the best I have ever had. The prices were a little high, but the place was very nice with great food.
(4)Julie M.
Dan was our server tonight (2 adults, 3 kids). He was AWESOME! He went above and beyond!!
(5)Vicky N.
I came here for a friend's birthday a few nights ago, and the polls do not lie! This is an excellent place for a nice dinner downtown. Nada an upscale Mexican-inspired restaurant in a great location, best for small groups or date night. We were greeted by friendly staff and a vibrant atmosphere. We came on a Friday with reservations, but this restaurant is extremely popular on the weekends. Our party was eventually seated after ~10 mins in the upstairs room. I ordered the Mexican mac & cheese and the pork belly tacos after reading the other reviews on them. I love that they put a twist on traditional Mexican food and mix flavors that work well together. They were both phenomenal and filling despite the deceptive portion sizes... The mac & cheese was creamy with just the right amount of jalapeño spice and breadcrumb crunch, and the pork belly was cooked to perfection. I had a taste of the chips & salsa, which were also just as delicious and are unlimited after the $2 purchase. I still think $16 is a little too steep for three (yes, THREE) tacos, even if they make the tortillas from scratch and grow the avocados for the guac themselves... What topped off the night was that our waiter was outstanding. He was very attentive and made sure we were satisfied with our food the entire time, even bringing out churros for the birthday gal at the end of our meal! If you want dessert, the churros will not disappoint -- they are served warm with a crispy, cinnamon-y outside and fluffy inside rich with flavor! No doubt Nada knows how to treat their customers well and put care into the quality of their food. Great place to go if you want a fancy night out!
(4)Anna S.
I lovelovelove Nada. It is in my top 5 choices for sit-down dining in Cincinnati. Because of the flavorful, hearty food; trendy but fun environment; beautifully tasteful and zingy decor, and chill but professional server, this is my favorite of the David Falk restaurants. I have been to Nada many times since moving to the area in 2008 and I have never had a bad experience. The Sunday brunch is tops, but I'll go there anytime. When the weather is nice, the outdoor seating is wonderful, like being at a cookout in your super-trendy, super-chic best friend's back yard. We took my preteen daughter there for dinner and she also loved it, so it's nice that there isn't a super-snooty vibe (but in the reverse, not a grimy, Cheerio-riddled Bob Evans environment either). Our personal, time-tested recommendations are: the mac and cheese (holyyyy mother, so creamy decadent good); guacamole with extra crudités (fresh, garlicky and healthful); salsa with extra thick, fresh-fried crunchy chips; blood orange margaritas (can be made virgin as well!); and the delicious tacos - big and filling and explosively flavorful (the barbacoa, diablo-style, chicken and pork belly!). The corn tortillas are melt-in-your-mouth heaven. The prices aren't cheap, definitely not a quick Chipotle meal or a Mexican family restaurant with all the gratis sides, but the food is that trademark rich deliciousness you'd expect from the sibling of Boca and Sotto, and the environment is just so fun and pretty! (I would love to own a set of those blue tumblers!).
(5)Joel L.
Fantastic! I've eaten here twice. Once during lunch on a weekday and again with six people for lunch on a weekday. Nada was full of customers both times. The service is great. The servers are attentive and understand the menu. The food is amazing. The ingredients are very fresh and the dishes are created in a unique style. The menu is great. The food is innovative rather than authentic. I love it. I would recommend Nada to my friends.
(5)Jessica M.
Gauc is super to start with. Had shrimp tacos which looked rather boring but has awesome flavor if you are going for a healthier option it's a win for sure. Ambience is good. Seems trendy. Great location and even has an upstairs bar and outside patio area. Coming from it of town as a 30something this was the perfect spot to crash on a Thursday eve.
(4)Olwen C.
Two of my girlfriends and I had Saturday brunch/lunch at Nada last weekend and we LOVED it. Such an upscale modern restaurant in downtown Cincinnati. I ordered an Indian-Mexican inspired dish from the brunch menu. It was delicious. We also shared the salsa trio which was amazing, I loved the spicy and green salsas, the mild was unremarkable. The chips were too greasy, and there was way too much salt sprinkled on them, but overall I still give this experience 5 stars. Another thing to note is that you have to order and pay for chips and salsa. Our waiter was very nice, but on the slow side, as we sat and waited for a long time after finishing our food before he brought us our checks. The table next to us was seated, served, and gone way before us. If you get a doggy bag, they box everything up for you nicely! Would definitely come back again.
(5)Eames E.
Nada? More like I wanna NADAff to sleep after this meal!!!!! Just joshing folks, let's get to what really waters here-The agua. Agua heads can feel solace in that this restaurants water lives up to the establishments eponymous um well the name of the place. there are no notes of sweetness, sulfur, syrup, or fluoride. This water here has got nothin in it but 2 H's and 1 O guys! simplicity is the essence of brevity of wit Oscar Wilde once said and I think that applies here, folks.
(5)Vanessa K.
Meh. We've heard that Nada wasn't really as great as it looks, but we were downtown on the 4th of July and it was one of the few places with no wait, so we decide to give it a try. It was ok. But not that great. For the price, I would expect much better food. The service was good, but it was just subpar food for an upscale restaurant. For about $5 less a plate it would have been fine. You are totally paying for location.
(2)Brooklyn B.
Just stopped here for lunch and had a wonderful experience. The staff was very friendly in providing me and my family with a great overall experience. The food was also very tasty. Everyone in my group enjoyed their meal. All of the meals were very flavorful! We split the trio of salsas and loved each salsa's individual unique taste. Personally, I would recommend getting the taco salad. I was lost in the splendid flavor of the dish, so I lost track of how much I was consuming. However, I savored every last bite.
(5)Kevin W.
Line is a bit long - but seating at the bar is usually immediately available; and they serve food there too. Ordering nachos and salsa is usually pretty lame - but the chips here are awesome. They fry tortillas on site, resulting in a crunchy, textured chip that holds sauces well. We ordered both salsa and queso - the homemade salsa was excellent, but the queso was pretty standard. Shrimp tacos were pretty insubstantial to be honest; they come with a rather paltry bowl of rice on the side. That said, I left pretty satisfied, given the enormous number of chips I ate prior to the arrival of the mains. In short - order the nachos to start; you won't regret it.
(4)Christina H.
This is, by far, my favorite restaurant in Cincinnati! I've been here a few times, and have always been very satisfied with my experience for a number of reasons: 1) The trendy, modern, intricate decor. It's artsy, it's colorful, and even the outside is gorgeous, with string lights and lanterns hanging from the tree branches. 2) The sparkling sangria. Just order it and you'll see. (Also, definitely consider going there for happy hour on weekdays, even if it is just to get the sparkling sangria. Margaritas are good, too.) 3) The service. I find that the staff is always friendly, attentive, and knowledgable. 4) The quality of the food, of course! I've tried the sliders, salmon, pork belly tacos, and fish tacos. I personally liked all of it - very flavorful, very unique, and great presentation. It seems like you can't go wrong, no matter what you order here. It's not cheap, but it's definitely worth a visit (or two, or five)!
(5)Yuna D.
I came here with my boyfriend--we've been meaning to check the place out ever since I moved here. Love hanging out here, and the drinks are great. Service is super duper fast, but still really friendly. However, I don't exactly enjoy it when the servers just take your plate before asking if you're done. I would've liked to pick at my chips, thank you very much. Mimosa was fine. Not particularly memorable, but refreshing enough on a Sunday afternoon. I got the pork belly tacos, and the mister got the chicken tacos. I love salty food, but between the chips, queso, and the tacos, I was downing water like a guppy for hours after. tl;dr Great atmosphere to watch the game, but I'm not too keen on the salty food here. Drinks are pretty pricey.
(3)Cindy G.
This review deserves an update and another star (if there was one to give) because people of Cincinnati -- this Happy Hour is where it's at! Drinks: nadarita - $5 sangria rojo / blanco - $5 sparkling sangria - $6 cazadores blanco - $3 buffalo trace bourbon - $3 tito's vodka - $3 domestic beers 12 oz. - $2 mexican beers 12 oz. - $3 pacifico draft 16 oz. - $3 Food: salsa trio - $2 fire roasted tomato salsa + jalapeño verde salsa + habañero-garlic kreeper salsa guacamole - $3.50 avocado + tomatillo + crudite slider - $3 angus beef + steamed onions + velveeta + jalapeño mexican mac n' cheese - $4 (the best in the city imo) fresh cheeses + roasted poblano + jalapeño chicken taquitos - $4 crispy chicken tacos + asadero cheese + tomatillo boca fries - $3 cracked red potatoes + chive crema + mae ploy crispy shrimp taco - $4 (drool - so so good!) sriracha aioli + crispy shallots + arugula + charred corn grilled chicken taco - $4 black bean puree + pico de gallo + chihuahua cheese + guacamole carnitas taco - $4 braised pork + pickled onions + guacamole gringo style (mild) / diablo style (spicy) Get here today, tomorrow, right now... i don't care just get here! Monday-friday 3:00-6:00pm. And if this list isn't convincing enough, check out my pictures. Enjoy!
(5)Sonya L.
I loved everything about this restaurant. It is hard to find good Mexican food these days. Nada has mastered this cuisine at their lively, bright and colorful restaurant in downtown Cincinnati. My sister-in-law recommended this place and we came as a group. The service was excellent. Our waiter allowed us to sample wines before we chose and gave us plenty of time to enjoy our time together. He was very helpful in making decisions on the menu. We started with guacamole and salsa and it did not disappoint. Everything was very fresh. Everyone at our table enjoyed their entrees. I tasted one of my husband's taco's and I thought it was excellent. I got a goat cheese and beet salad which was the size of an entree. It was the best salad I've ever had. It had fried goat cheese and a sweet dressing on it that I could definitely go back there for. The ambiance at this place is great for groups or dates because of the relaxing but fun vibe. There is an upstairs with an additional bar. The bathrooms also had TV's in the mirrors. I really loved how there were so many windows to let in natural light. I'm sure this place looks really cool at night too. We took pictures outside because we even thought the exterior was awesome. There is lots of outdoor seating if you happen to go on a beautiful fall evening.
(5)Mary V.
We came here on a friend recommendation and was not disappointed. Great atmosphere. Food and drinks. Loved the barbacoa tacos and the shroom tacos.
(5)Brittney R.
This is a review of the brunch - highly recommend as a nice brunch spot that takes reservations (!!!), perfect for visitors in town or a special day. Between the 4 of us we tried several of the cocktails- bloody mary, bloody maria, sparkling grapefruit, sparkling blood orange and drunken coffee. They were all great, the bloody mary didn't come with a ton of accompaniments, but the mix was great. For brunch we had double gauc - a definite must at nada, huevos rancheros, cartinas tamal, french toast and the tinga & fried egg. I had the most of the tinga and egg, great flavor, the spice level was really nice - same with the huevos. We had great service on the patio and it has made it back on my go-to list!
(5)Eugene K.
Went to nada twice, won't go back a third time. The ambiance is great, the menu looked great and service was as expected for this type of restaurant. However the food was pretty salty both times I went, and I was with a party of 5 the first time and 8 the second time, so we had a solid consensus of salty food. Next time I have a craving for Mexican I will stick to Bakersfield. *** side note *** They added gratuity the second time I went (which is 20%), I guess I can't blame them since I treated some of my guests out and they were younger and not "dressed" for the occasion. I would've tipped 20%+ for the service anyway but it has been a long time since I've been gratted at a meal. This part doesn't really add or retract from my review since I base it off the food most of the time.
(3)Katie F.
Nada is such a great, versatile downtown restaurant. It's not often you can find a place that works for a business lunch, a birthday dinner with a group of friends, or a romantic night with someone. Every time I have eaten at Nada I have been given a consistent experience. Fast, friendly, knowledgeable service and delicious food. The atmosphere feels casual, upbeat, modern, and somehow intimate despite the enormity of the place. For starters, you must get the guacamole, end of story. Lobster bisque soup is also realllllllyyyyyyy good. And I would also recommend saving room for dessert because they are mouthwatering delicious. I will continue going to Nada again and again for all sorts of occassions!
(5)Amanda C.
Food: 4 (if you order the right thing), Service: 2 I came here in a group of 25 for some good ol hangover Sunday brunch. It was the best meal I had in Cincinnati but I guess that isn't saying much since I had Domino's pizza 3 times... Eggs benedicto with Crab (2/5): There is NO CRAB IN HERE. Total ripoff!! When we asked the waiter where the crab is he said it was inside the hollandaise sauce. Well it must have been real mixed in there because you can't see it at all. Eggs benedicto with goetta (5/5): Goetta is awesome! Never had it before, it's like hash browns with pork in it. And it's existent. Tinga and eggs cazuela (5/5): The braised chicken was cooked excellently. Highly recommend this dish, it's unique and fills you up! Chips with guac: (3/5) Chips are freshly fried and pretty oily, single order of guac feels like a ripoff. $7 for a small bowl. Service (2/5): Waiters were unattentive, hardly came around to refill water and had to chase him down to order some chips/guac. Also had to wait forever to get our bill. **Great for groups! Got a private room on the top floor with 4 round tables.
(3)Tiera A.
Great for brunch, lunch and dinner! Nada is definitely a downtown staple. In the ever-changing downtown Cincy scene, Nada has continued to hold its own. They're known for good food, good cocktails and a good time. If you're in the mood for some good Mexican food, this is a great choice.
(4)Stephanie W.
Went here on a Sunday evening, we were seated immediately by the window. We ordered the chips and salsa both were very good and refillable. The waiter was very attentive. We ordered fish tacos and crispy shrimp tacos. I ordered the guacamole on the side. I am glad I did it was not horrible but it lacked in flavor. The drinks were tasty so, I can understand why this is a popular happy hour spot for young professionals. The water server kept our glasses full. All staff members were friendly and kind. I would try Nada's again. The atmosphere and ambience of the place was cool, perfect spot for date night or girls night out.
(4)Troy J.
The menu and atmosphere of Nada is inviting. So is the staff. The waiter helped me choose from a wide array of tequilas -- and let me sample three of Nada's eight (braised pork, chicken, fish, short rib, shrimp, salmon, vegetarian and pork belly) taco choices. The Baja-style fish taco and diablo-style pork taco (with some spice) were very good. However, the pork belly taco was out-of-this world good. Crispy. Melty. Bacon-y. Nirvana. Come for the Tacos. Don't fill up on chips.
(3)Dat N.
Second night on business in Cincinnati brought me to Nada. While it's not the most rocking Mexican experience I have had, it gets high marks for flavor, presentation, service and décor. I had a reservation for one and was seated next to a window facing 6th Street in a leather wrapped arm chair. The menu was just right - sparse when compared with most run-of-the-mill Tex-Mex places that resemble Chinese take-out joints. This was a focused menu that offered just enough options to satisfy everyone's palates and dietary restrictions. I ordered a glass of tempranillo from Valdepenas. Full-bodied with a strong bouquet of spicy dried fruit and with some nice tannins and lingering finish -- impressive for a $6 wine by the glass. I started with the individual guacamole that came out with incredibly crispy/crunch, house fried chips and slices of cucumber and jicama. I was also happy that they included a dish of well spiced salsa. All of it was delicious. The guac was well-seasoned and creamy. Next came the vegetarian tacos. At a tackier restaurant, this would be an excuse to pile these tortillas high with pico de gallo, lettuce and mounds of cheese. Instead, Nada serves up generous portions of well grilled vegetables (heavy on the portabellos) with just enough cheese to hold it together. My only complaint was that they came out on flour tortillas. I would have loved the option for corn. I enjoyed my meal so much that I was easily convinced to order dessert. I had the churros and damn -- these were easily the lightest ones I've ever had-- incredibly crispy on the outside and drizzled with honey. It was way too generous a portion for one person so after eating two, I had to box the rest (which I would eat later with the lights off and shades drawn). Overall - this is dressed up Mexican. It's not the most authentic and it's not the best I have ever had. But I appreciate it for what it is -- delicious, generous, well-prepared eats that makes an ordinary meal feel like a special event.
(4)J w.
I've been putting off coming here because I tend to prefer more authentic, hole-in-wall Mexican compared to new, Americanized Mexican. But then again, if I take a deeper look at myself, I am more of an Americanized Mexican than not. So touché. Went here for brunch in my previous night attire and the Tinga did not disappoint my hangover. Braised chicken, chorizo and rice took away my regrets from the night past and into a world of hope and joy. I would come here again for sure. And given the affordable price ($10) you should too.
(5)Shamika K.
We went to Nada for date night. We had a reservation so only had to wait a few minutes for our table. Our waiter was nice enough although he got my order wrong. I ordered shrimp tacos and got Baja fish tacos. They were good but not what I ordered. We had chips and salsa which was good enough. Everything was fine but it's over priced in my opinion. $16-$20 bucks for some tacos seems like a bit much. We had a gift card so it didn't matter as much but I probably wouldn't go back.
(3)Alisha W.
This is a great place in the heart of downtown! Everything I've eaten is excellent! The chicken tacos were a favorite until I tried the chicken and corn enchiladas. Holy cow! It's the thing dreams are made of! The guac is so fresh, I love it. The chips are homemade and come out warm, which is always a good sign. The nadarita is great. It's refreshing and smooth. The downside is that the space is so cramped. You feel like you're sitting on top of other tables and you can easily hear all the other conversations around you. Also, everything seems a bit overpriced. The guac will run you $7 and it's really only enough for two people. At the end of the day, this is a great restaurant with great ambiance. We love to take visitors to Nada and I've been there for business dinners several times. It's a really unique experience that people seem to really enjoy. Check out the desserts, they're always great!
(4)Lauren J.
Nada never fails to deliver the best food and atmosphere, be it for a weekday lunch or nighttime noshing after a show. My coworker and I popped in here for a quick lunch and to catch up. It was gorgeous enough to do outside seating, but with the road construction going on that day we wanted something a bit more quiet. After we said hi to some other coworkers eating at the bar, we were seated upstairs and found it to be pretty busy for 11:30 on a weekday! Our server was fantastic, and brought our drinks, chips and salsa out quickly. We ordered a side of guacamole- and holy mole I'm glad we did. I don't know how they make their chips, but they were perfect... We might have had 2 baskets... They are so light and extra crunchy, almost like a double layered tortilla fried in heaven. The guac had huge chunks of avocado in it and was quickly devoured. The salsa was fresh and flavorful. Our food came out quickly. We both ordered the barbacoa tacos (2 per plate), she got the side of beans and I ordered the side salad. The salad was a bit small, but with the mountain of chips we inhaled I didn't need much more. The tacos were honestly the best I have ever had. We had to be careful eating them because the juice ran out the other side when you picked it up. The meat was tender, shredded and season perfectly, lined up on a soft corn tortilla waiting to be devoured, and was simply perfect. It was so good you would put the entire taco down before taking another bite so your mouth can identify the spices, sweet flavorings, and different textures of what you just bit off. That has to be happiness. The only thing that would have made it better was if it was after work so I could enjoy a grapefruit martini... Bravo Nada!
(5)Mary Clare B.
So good! The mexican mac n' cheese is a must! Reasonably priced for what you get. We had a view of the kitchen - - - dinner and a show = perfection.
(5)Stephanie K.
Upon walking into this restaurant, my experience started out a little iffy. There was no host to greet us for literally 5 minutes. I ended up walking up to the bartender to ask what I was supposed to do. They assured me someone would help us. I guess a manager noticed and offered a complimentary queso dip appetizer to us. Ummm that Queso dip is freaking amazing. There was chorizo in it that made it so so tasty. The chips are thick cut and freshly fried (kind of like a nice greasey fried pita chip). I also had the pork belly tacos. Easily one of the best pork belly dishes I've had. I kept eyeing my husband after every bite with a big smile on my face and he would just nod in silent agreement.
(4)Jason S.
More guacamole please! I visited for lunch and was really impressed. The menu was simple but everything we ordered was very well done. The waiter recommended the black bean puree. It was delicious and very unique. The Guac was amazing. I had the grilled chicken tacos with the diablo sauce and loved them.
(4)Prisha P.
Was in town for a wedding and came across this place by walking around. Went there for brunch and started off with Bloody Mary and fresh OJ which was excellent. Bloody Mary was very spicy exactly how i ordered it. For brunch we ordered Pork Green Chile Enchiladas which was amazing.. it came in a skillet and the pork was so tender.. the sauce was very tasty Tinga & Egg Cazuela was my favorite dish. Recommended by our server this dish was filled with flavors from the spicy tomato (not too spicy) and the chorizo was cooked to perfection. Highly recommend this place. Wish we could've tried the dinner bc the menu looked good as well.
(5)Thomas C.
Summary: Modern Mexican "dinner and drinks" place, perfect for a night downtown Tip: Get the mac and cheese as an appetizer. It's always cooked well with a little jalapeno mixed in for a perfect kick. Ambience/Service: This place is a great date place. Dimly lit, well-spaced tables with some nice outdoor seating as well when weather permits. Upstairs there is more seating with another bar. Service is always solid here, although nothing particularly memorable. Food (I'm vegetarian): I always get their vegetarian tacos which are primarily portobello. They've got great flavor, pretty mushroom-y if you like it. The tacos and the mac and cheese are plenty filling. The mac and cheese is something I crave. Perfect pasta with a perfect cheese sauce with jalapenos with a nice breadcrumb topping that's baked together. Perfect. Overall: This is a great night out downtown for a dinner, drinks, and whatever else afterwards. It's perfectly located near the Aronoff Center for a show or plenty of other night life around town.
(4)Nada B.
I brought a large group of friends here when my mother and sister were in town. We had a reservation and were seated right away at a large round table. The service was good and fast. I got the grapefruit margarita and definitely enjoyed it. However, the food was so salty, almost to the point of inedible. Mexican food can generally be salty, but this time the overwhelming taste was salt and the whole table agreed it was consistent across our plates. We even made a comment to the server who brushed it off. The atmosphere and drinks were great, and the food would have been given 5 stars, if it weren't for the over seasoning
(3)Dana C.
My only complaint is that I ate so much I was actually uncomfortable! Try the Nadarita... it's to die for with just a touch of honey. The pitcher is a great deal at $28. Pitcher held just shy of 6 glasses, which would gave been $7 a piece if ordered individually. The queso was amazing. Rich and creamy as it should be. For my main, I had the grilled chicken tacos. ... I could eat them every day, I'm sure. Also at my table was the pork belly tacos, fish tacos, and a chicken/chorizo stew-type thing.... nobody had a single complaint. We were all stuffed but decided to get some desserts anyway... Butterscotch flan with coconut creme. Need I say more? My mouth is watering again...
(4)