5 Small Town Steakhouses Near Cincinnati That Are Totally Worth The Trip

The city of Cincinnati has dozens of delicious restaurants that could have you eating at a new incredible spot night after night. There are some eateries that are famous for their steaks, and these steakhouses tend to hover within city limits. However, if you want to try a mouthwatering steak that's just a little off the beaten path, then check out these five small-town steakhouses near Cincinnati that are totally worth the trip. With one in Ohio, three in Kentucky, and one in Indiana - all within about 30 minutes of downtown Cincinnati - you can dine on the best steaks all around the Tristate area.

1. Third and Main

Third and Main is perhaps the best hidden gem on this list, and you can find it in a historic building in Aurora, Indiana. The steaks here are some of the best in the region and it's worth a visit from any corner of our city. With a charming interior and lovely outdoor patio, your steak dinner is sure to be unforgettable. Read more about this small-town steakhouse here. Address: 223 3rd Street, Aurora, IN, 47001

2. Blinkers Tavern

Blinkers Tavern is located in Covington, which isn't exactly a small town, but this eatery deserves a spot on our list nonetheless. It's just across the river from Cincinnati and serves up some of the best food in this scrumptious Northern Kentucky city. The steak (and really any beef) is a specialty here, and you'll enjoy it in a relaxed atmosphere with impeccable service. Read more about Blinkers Tavern here. Address: 318 Greenup Street, Covington, KY, 41011

3. Walt's Hitching Post

Walt's Hitching Post is tucked away in an unexpected spot in Ft. Wright, just a few minutes from downtown Cincinnati. This NKY favorite dining destination is also a Queen City favorite with an incredible menu that stars ribs and mouthwatering steaks. You'll love the rustic charm here and it's perfect for celebrating a special night out. Find out more about this must-try restaurant here. Address: 3300 Madison Pike, Fort Wright, KY, 41017

4. Trotta's Steak and Seafood

Trotta's Steak and Seafood is located in another small town in Northern Kentucky - Dayton. If you want the taste and flavor of a delicious steakhouse but with the comfort of a down-home restaurant, then this is the perfect place to dine. The menu here has many mouthwatering options, especially those that combine steak and seafood. Learn more about this hidden gem on its website here.

Address: 441 6th Avenue, Dayton, KY, 41074

5. Lonely Pine Steakhouse

Brand new to the steakhouse scene is the retro Lonely Pine Steakhouse. You'll find this unique restaurant in Pleasant Ridge, not amongst the other eateries of downtown and OTR. Inspired by the roadside steakhouses along Route 66, you'll find excellent steaks served up in a casual and cool environment. Come as you are and try anything on the menu at this 60s-era steakhouse. Read more about it on the restaurant's website here. Address: 6085 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati, OH, 45213

These five steakhouses near Cincinnati are all worth the drive from wherever you are in town. The popular and often fancier restaurants that you'll find downtown and nearby are worth a visit too, but these eateries give you a great steak in a laid-back atmosphere you'll love. Have you dined at any (or all) of these steakhouses near Cincinnati? Any other small-town options we should add? Let us know in the comments!

And for one of the most popular and award-winning steakhouses in Cincinnati (that also has the best mac & cheese you'll ever try), check out our previous article here.