A decade and a half after planning began, we finally have evidence of The Banks' existence with the opening of the Holy Grail Tavern and Grille. Located directly across from Great American Ball Park, this spot is guaranteed to be packed for our boys of summer and will be a hotspot to root on our beloved and beleaguered Bengals in the fall and winter.  

Asian fusion restaurants seem to be in fashion lately, and The Painted Fish in Northside has thrown its hat into the ring with modern décor and an eclectic menu. The Fish has transformed the former Gajah Wong West space into a hip environment where the dining soundtrack is Passion Pit and the sushi chef is Nick, a young, energetic owner who hollered a greeting from the back sushi bar as we walked in.  

Family-owned businesses are few and far between. A family-owned restaurant that has not only survived but also flourished for over 30 years is even more difficult to find. The Wong family makes the recipe for success look effortless: involve the family in all aspects of the business, produce excellent food, staff each restaurant with knowledgeable and dedicated people and build a large clientele.  

You have probably driven by Green Papaya on Wasson in Hyde Park and, as I had done for years, blankly stared at it as you waited for the longest light in the city to turn green. And, as you wait for said light, your mind will inevitably wander and you will take a mental inventory of similar Thai/Sushi places in the area. As I entered Green Papaya, I already knew what set it apart — ambiance.  

Good food that is not pretentious. That’s what owner and chef Shawn McCoy of the Brown Dog Café (5893 Pfeiffer Road, Blue Ash, 513-794-1610) wants to provide for his guests. And with a creative menu served in his cozy Blue Ash restaurant, he does just that.  

The winter months make me a bit reflective, and a nice glass or four of wine is perfect for those moments. Who better to spend an evening reminiscing with friends than the Wine Guy?  

Many times, the sign of a restaurant’s success can be found at the bar. You can find libations anywhere, but a great bartender can make you cancel your table reservation. Bill Rose is one bartender you will choose to share your dining experience with, and he has been sharing his expertise with the city for 18 years.  

When you recall the Rock & Roll clubs of your youth, you might remember cover charges, smoky bars, sticky floors, cheap beers and drinking way too many shots. You might have grown up and become more responsible, but that doesn't mean you still don't like your live music. MOTR Pub is helping to put Main Street back on the entertainment map with free live music (Rock, Indie, Folk and more) every night and great food day and night. How many shots you choose to take is your business.   

Mokka and the Sunset Bar & Grill is not just for brunch anymore. They still offer their award-winning breakfast and brunch menu, and now you can go back later for dinner, drinks and live entertainment. One of the fringe benefits of working in a restaurant is grazing for an entire shift. What happens when you are surrounded by delicious food, but are trying a new diet?  

If I'm to be stuck anywhere awaiting tardy dining guests, I could ask for no better place than an Indian restaurant with a David Sedaris book. I was the only one in the Shaan dining room, save a steady stream of carryout customers. I had a pile of complimentary papardumm (fried, crisp, lentil wafers) and delicious accoutrements such as sweet tamarind, a pureed mint and a spicy onion chutney to keep me busy.