Reviews
Nicholson's Pub
4.4 Stars - Based on 6270 User Reviews




read moreread less

Great pub environment, lots of seating and large bar for quick drinks. Food comes out quick and cooked exactly to order. The Goat cheese dip was amazing, could use more Naan bread with it. Prices are great for size and quality of food. Wait time for a table is short and take reservations. - 2/07/2025
read moreread less


read moreread less
Liz
I hadn’t been here in a few years since I moved north of the city, and was excited to have a chance to return today. Nicholson’s did not disappoint. Everyone’s meal was delicious-pub burger, pot roast, salmon, and grilled cheese and soup. The flavors were wonderful and, the atmosphere is still cozy and wonderful. - 2/02/2025
read moreread less
Jennifer
One of my favorite places in Cincinnati! Food is always wonderful and the ambience is top notch. We went for a Robert Burns night and it was a truly Scottish experience with dancers and bagpipes. I recommend this place to all out of town coworkers and anyone going to a play at the Aronoff. - 1/26/2025
read moreread less

Nicholson’s brings the perfect Scottish pub vibe to Cincinnati. The food is incredible—don’t miss the crispy fish and chips, the rich pork belly with apple side, or the chicken schnitzel with a lemon twist. The shepherd’s pie is pure comfort food bliss. Great drinks and a warm atmosphere, but service can get pretty slow when it’s busy, which has happened more than once. - 1/20/2025
read moreread less
Stephen
One of favorites in Cincinnati. A great spot before or after theater. The staff and service is excellent but there is a mystery. Wayne, our server was great but the wait for a glass of wine and a pint of Harp was 20 minutes and the wait for food was another 20 minute wait. We like the place and we will be back but this was not the first time an absurdly long wait for drinks and food happened. Somebody should figure out a solution. - 1/19/2025
read moreread less
Kristin
Everything was delicious and high quality as always. This is my favorite place to come before or after a show at the Aronoff. The service never disappoints, but Jasper was especially pleasant and welcoming this last visit and really seemed to care that we had our best brunch experience. And we did! 🙂 - 1/19/2025
read moreread less
Angela
My family & friends thoroughly enjoy eating at Nicholson's Fine Food & Whiskey for a majority of reasons. The food and variety of drinks are fantastic and we love that they create a "special menu" based on the shows at the Aronoff which is directly across the street. The decor makes you feel like you are stepping into another country, the staff is professional, courteous and very accommodating. I highly recommend checking them out. You won't be disappointed. - 1/13/2025
read moreread less
James
We went to Nicholson's after seeing Les Mis at the Aranoff. We got out of the show faster than expected, and Nicholson's was able to seat us well ahead of our reservation time, despite being quite busy. They had a menu with features celebrating the show, and the food and drinks were delicious. Would highly recommend. - 1/13/2025
read moreread less

Came up from Louisville to see a show at Arnoff. They got us in and out quickly even without a reservation although I would make one on a show night in the future. Both Jack and Jesse were awesome, friendly and welcoming, and the decor and ambiance appealed to my sister’s love of Scotland and my appreciation for men in kilts. The fish and chips were delicious, and the generous portions would have allowed for a take home box; however given that my sister and I weren’t going home, we should have shared the main meal with maybe an added side item. Great experience. I wish we’d been able to stay a little longer. My only reason for not giving five stars across the board is to give extra recognition to Jack and Jesse. - 1/12/2025
read moreread less


read moreread less
Susie
We enjoyed the back room area with the fireplace and less noise. It felt cozy on a winter night. My shrimp and grits were wonderful, especially when you consider that its a Scottish themed place. The Bourbon Creme Brule was delicious. The wait time for food was short and the service was very good. - 1/12/2025
read moreread less


read moreread less

What a classic place! Atmosphere sets the tone for a vintage experience. Fifi was fabulous and is as entertaining as she was efficient. Drinks and food were outstanding. Scotch served properly with ice & water on the side. Worth a return trip most definitely! - 12/28/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less
Allison
We were in the back room which was lovely for my older parents who have a harder time hearing. The food was amazing, but not too much that you feel sick after eating! The cocktails were to DIE for! Our waiter was funny and kind. Made a reservation for me and my girls to go there for our Christmas dinner the same week! - 12/16/2024
read moreread less
Daniel H.

read moreread less
Frogmore 1790
Works do We had our Xmas works dinner at The Carpenters Arms on Sat 14th in Windsor. The venue and quality of the food was amazing, the service and friendliness was first class. Nobody that went had a fault on the night. Very well done to all and we will definitely come back. Thank you Pete. - 12/14/2024
read moreread less
Andrea
We sat at “counter seating” and I had my doubts because I felt it would be like bar type seating. For two people it is perfect seating. You can both see the action in the restaurant and yet be able to talk with each other. Our service was spectacular - multiple people checked in with us. Most people there were going to a show after dinner - like myself - the restaurant was on top of it. We did not feel rushed at all. The food was wonderful. We had fish and chips (not battered, but incredible) and shrimp and grits - both were fantastic. Our drinks were first rate as well. I had been here years ago and thought ‘it’s OK but with this visit (again many years later) I thought “I have to come back!”. - 12/06/2024
read moreread less
karen
Our food and cocktails were very good, and the menu has some fun Scottish choices. I had the chicken schnitzel, which was very good and a large portion. My husband enjoyed his pasta dish as well, and the cheesecake was delicious. Our server was excellent and friendly. I love the bar area atmosphere with the dark wood. It was a very enjoyable time. I'm sure we'll return. - 12/01/2024
read moreread less
David
Excellent lunch experience before show at Aronoff. Received very nice service from reception desk and our server, Eliza. I enjoyed Manhattan perfectly made to my specifics. My husband was most pleased with his bowl of burgoo and pot roast meal. I was very pleased with my bowl of burgoo and Caesar salad. Eliza promptly corrected misunderstanding with my salad. Price was appropriate for quality of food & drink. Recommend reservations for about two hours before show time. Pace here is more on par with dining in Europe which my husband and I appreciated. - 11/30/2024
read moreread less
Julie
Good spot to grab a drink and meal prior to a show. The menu seems somewhat limited in terms of standard fare. I had the chicken sandwich and fries and it was good, and my friend had the scotch egg and tortilla soup and she said it was good too. Service was excellent and drinks were above average. Would I go if I weren’t going to a show? Probably not. Would I go back before a show? Sure. - 11/20/2024
read moreread less
Brent
Great Scottish-themed pub with remarkably reasonable prices for a place right downtown across from the Aronoff Center. Parking in that neighborhood is a pain, particularly when there's an event at the Aronoff and parking prices are hiked, but this place has Valet Parking. Sadly, we only found this out after paying $20 for "special event" parking around the block. I don't know what the Valet parking costs, but it's probably less than $20, even with tip. The food is pub grub, but with some Scottish-inspired items. I had Cock-a-Leeky soup, a small house salad, and flash fried Brussels sprouts side. The daughter had the Salmon, and the spouse had the Shepherd's Pie. Spouse and daughter split a large salad, and the house served them as two small salads in separate dishes, no upcharge. Everyone greatly enjoyed their food! There were a couple of mistakes in our orders: I initially got the mashed potatoes instead of the Brussels Sprouts, and the ladies' salads did not have the dressing on the side, as requested (my daughter hates salad dressing). The staff made those mistakes right immediately. We didn't order drinks, but this place has over 100 Scottish Whiskies, including some curated flights. I do enjoy a Single Malt Whisky now and again, and I can say they have a very impressive selection. - 11/18/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less
Greg
Great Saturday night at Nicholson's! Food--fish & chips and pot roast were both very good. Loved the fish because it was pan fried and not beer battered which I don't like. The service was exceptional! Great atmosphere! Next time would be nice to get a table in the back near the fireplace! Will definitely be returning!! - 11/17/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less

Just about everything at Nicholson's is great! Awesome decor, great service, excellent bourbon selection, delicious meals, and somehow it's reasonably priced too! We eat here at least once a month and have never had bad service or a bad meal! It's hard to find a restaurant these days that you can say that about, which makes our experience at Nicholson's that much better. - 11/10/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less
Marie R.

read moreread less
Marie
Went to Nicholsons before a show at the Aronoff. Was pleasantly surprised by the menu and prices. Good value and fabulous food. Our server Fifi was attentive and a delight! Would bring my family back and am looking forward to a date night with just the hubby next time! - 10/31/2024
read moreread less

We came to eat here during the Blink Arts wave. So it was busy. It took us a while to be served. When we finally got our food, my wife's fries were soggy, and the chicken sandwich was just not good. Overall I enjoyed the restaurant but might not be back. - 10/30/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less
Rebekah
Food and service was pretty good. We were disappointed in the pub pretzels & pimento cheese; very little cheese & not very flavorful. Salads were okay. Salmon on my salad had little flavor. Sticky toffee pudding was very good. Just expected more from all the hype. - 10/26/2024
read moreread less

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Nicholson’s, and I have to say, their fish and chips were nothing short of awesome! From the moment I walked in, the inviting atmosphere set the stage for a fantastic meal. The fish was perfectly cooked, with a light, crispy batter that had just the right amount of seasoning. It was flaky and tender on the inside, making each bite a delightful experience. The portion size was generous, ensuring that I left feeling completely satisfied. The chips were equally impressive—golden, crispy, and fluffy on the inside. They complemented the fish perfectly and were clearly cooked to perfection. I appreciated that they were served hot and fresh, adding to the overall enjoyment of the meal. What really stood out was the attention to detail. The meal was accompanied by a tangy tartar sauce that paired beautifully with the fish, and a wedge of lemon that added a refreshing zest. The staff was friendly and attentive, making sure that my dining experience was top-notch. Overall, I highly recommend Nicholson’s for anyone craving delicious fish and chips. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this place is a must-visit. I can't wait to return and indulge in this fantastic dish again! - 10/25/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less


read moreread less

Think about your favorite comfort food. Do you feel that? That is exactly what it is like eating the Scottish/British version. Whether it be fish and chips, bangers and mash, or one of their delicious soups. The vibe is a pub atmosphere but the food is like a warm blanket. Parking: There are many paid parking lots within walking distance. - 10/19/2024
read moreread less
Timothy
The Fish & Chips as well as the pot roast were AMAZING. If you have not been here before, I would highly encourage you to check them out! If you are in a rush, you might want to check somewhere else, but the pace of the service is intended for you to enjoy your meal and enjoy the atmosphere. - 10/19/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less
Alexis
Our server was delightful. Pleasant and efficient. We were seated in a booth and the lighting was quite dim. My companion couldn’t even make out the menu! She asked, and a manager did increase the light some, but it threw cold water on her experience of a restaurant we went to for years of pre-theater dinners. - 10/02/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less

I enjoyed our lunch at this restaurant, but I was expecting more! The food was good, but nothing spectacular. The pretzels were rock hard and we sent them back. They were kind enough to remove them from the bill . My reuben sandwich was good, but soggy. They should play more on the Scottish theme with music and food. Our waiter was very attentive and pleasant. - 9/29/2024
read moreread less

This is a great pub in downtown Cincinnati the food is above and beyond what we expected drinks are fabulous prices aren't bad atmosphere couldn't be better was in town for a concert and ate there twice Kid-friendliness: Kid friendly Wheelchair accessibility: Defiantly wheelchair accessible - 9/27/2024
read moreread less
Melinda Newman
We received professional, relationship-based service throughout the entire process: from pre-planning, to day-of pre-event setup, through on-site service throughout our event and post-event tear-down. We were out-of-town hosts and had several food allergies to accommodate, but the Nicholson's staff offered a seamless experience with a wonderful menu and lovely venue. I highly recommend this venue. - 9/24/2024
read moreread less
Carrie
When we first got seated the restaurant smelled like a bathroom. There was a strong sulfur and poo smell. We weren't going to stay, but the waitress said she could move us to the other side and it would be better. It was mostly better. The food wasn't bad. Nothing incredibly special that I would love to have it again, but the Tavern salad was good. My husband and brother-in-law mainly came for the Kilkenny draft beer, which they search for in every city that we visit since first having it in Ireland. - 9/21/2024
read moreread less
Christine
Brought my Dinner Group and everything was great! Fish n chips were a disappointment to 1 person. Said fish was overcooked. But 8 of us had very good food! Desserts were delicious-- especially the sticky toffee bread pudding. Everyone enjoyed--- many hadn't been there in a long while. Great job 👏🏻 - 9/20/2024
read moreread less
Bob
Made a reservation early and was able to get the private area for two. My granddaughter and I were having dinner before going to the theater, and this was the perfect start. The hostess immediately took us to our table, the server was professional and efficient, and the food was very good. - 9/12/2024
read moreread less
Sarah
It was a busy time, since there was a show at the Aronoff. With that said, food took extra long, and didn’t come out hot. However, our server was super nice and was on top of it. He told his supervisor about the situation and we ended up getting our food on the house. We still enjoyed our time there. They offered to replace our food, which was super nice. We didn’t take them up on their offer, but the gesture was enough. I’ll def go back, cuz it always a fun place to go. This was the first time with this experience - 9/08/2024
read moreread less

Rare to give out 5 stars. Dined in 8/23 Had a FeFe as my "server," but all she did was get me a water and put in an app order. Her trainee [jack?] did everything from drink order to bringing out food. A+ service and a friendly, welcoming greet/interactions from both of them. The food was great, and the atmosphere was great. Selection of drinks was solid [this close to KY, I would have liked a larger Bourbon selection, but I understand how difficult it is to get some of those nicer shelf space fillers commercially]. 10/10 will return - 8/24/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less

Just had their Truffalo wings for Cincinnati Wing Week. They are excellent!! Nicholson's is across the street from the Aronoff Theatre and is conveniently located to other places downtown. Food is above average with usual pub fare. Service is friendly and usually attentive. The atmosphere is unique due to being a pub but it gives a spacious feeling not an enclosed one. Plenty of seating and a large bar formed in a circle. Also some outside seating with a view of the street and theatre. - 8/21/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less
yukiniki
Josh was our Server and did a good job! Prompt and attentive--- Hard cider " hit the spot " . Started off with the grilled Brussels sprouts and they were delicious. Fish n chips--- always good. Pasta dish with blackened chicken was tasty.Had a bit of a spicey kick to it. Sticky toffee pudding with vanilla bean ice cream was very good! Thank you--/ good job 👏🏻 and will be back! - 8/09/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less


read moreread less


read moreread less


read moreread less

We loved the service, it was pretty quick. We ordered bread board(4stars) and fish chips (3stars) and shrimp grits ( 4.5star). It was large portions and we couldn’t finish it all. Overall pretty good and our attendant jack was very attentive and recommending well. Parking: There was public parking on the backroad of the restaurant - 6/11/2024
read moreread less

Came in and was seated promptly without a reservation. Asked for a water and time to look over the menu, and was left alone for about 20-30 minutes until a server wandered over by chance with a stack of menus and took my order. I appreciate that my order was taken, but I thought the staff would be a bit more attentive. Ordered a Scotch Egg ($11) with Smithswicks ($7.50) and the Welsh Dip ($18) with Highland Flight ($28). The scotch egg was good classic pub food and like most other scotch eggs I've had. Crispy and crunchy, and paired well with the mustard. The arugula salad was refreshing. Definitely recommend as an appetizer. The Welsh Dip is a must-have. A bit messy due to it being a dip, but absolutely delicious in a pub-food sort of way between sips of Scotch. I was really surprised to see that the pretzel bun had actual large cubes of salt on top like any respectable pub pretzel should. You MUST sub out the fries for the house roasted potatoes. Their salty, crispy goodness is divine. You can even pour your leftover au jus over them if you want. - 6/04/2024
read moreread less

We brought a group down for lunch from Green Township Senior Center- we attended a show at the Aronoff and then walked across the street- the catering staff were very easy to work with in setting up a private room for our group of 35 and setting up a preset menu. Service the day of the lunch was great and we were served our lunch in a very timely manner- the Seniors had a great time and we will be back again! - 5/30/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less
We enjoyed our dinner and the food was good. We did have an issue that was resolved after we complained. There are appetizers and drink deals listed on the happy hour page that are similar to regular menu items. We believed we were ordering from the happy hour menu until our bill arrived and it was $20 higher than it should have been. Be explicit when ordering during happy hour! It would be helpful for the staff to clarify when taking an order. - 5/23/2024
read moreread less

This place has good food. The drinks are mostly reasonable, and they have a huge selection. They have special event drinks when shows come to the Aronoff Center across the street. Happy hour specials are fantastic, and each table is separated enough to give privacy. The only thing that drops a star from 5 is the absence of Haggis from a scottish menu. If they ever put it on the menu I'll stop by and hopefully give them a fifth star. - 5/23/2024
read moreread less
KathyK
Nicholson's is a go to restaurant if you are going to the theater in downtown Cincinnati. It is best to inform your wait person that you need to be out of the restaurant due to the start time of the show when seated. They offer several large tables to seat six comfortably. Tables are tight so the noise level can be loud. Food was good and offered a wide variety of selections for our group from soup/salad to a chicken sandwich and crab cakes. Nice selection of beers on draft and cans. Would like selection in the wine offered. Bring back the Biltmore wines to your menu. - 5/20/2024
read moreread less


read moreread less
I’ve been to Nicholson’s before, but this visit seemed to be exceptionally good. We were taken immediately to our table and the server was quick to take our drink orders. There is a large selection on the menu, but not too large to be overwhelming. Once we decided on our food orders, the server was readily available to take our orders. The food came out quickly and was really quite good. I had the Shepherd’s Burger and my dining companion had the pot roast. Both very good. I had the cheesecake for dessert without the fruit. Highly recommend it. The one glitch was with my friend receiving a second Manhattan. It took what seemed longer than necessary, but it did not detract from the overall experience. Kudos to our server for being personable and cheerful. I will go back and recommend this restaurant. - 5/19/2024
read moreread less
GailK
We enjoyed the mystery dinner before "Clue" at the Aronoff. The one thing that bothered my companion was that the food in the chafing dishes was cold: Mac & cheese and taco meat & rice. I must thank your staff, especially Shannen and Chef, for accommodating my need for gluten-free food. The Pad Thai was good, and thanks to their willingness to have coconut aminos available, along with a clean pan and tongs, made my evening!! Thank you!! - 5/16/2024
read moreread less
We had the charcuterie board, fish and chips and hot brown. The place was packed due to opening night but our service was great. We had Eliza as our server and she was running around serving many tables but attentive to us. Food came out in a timely manner and we were at the show with plenty of time to spare. Manager even stopped to check in. - 5/15/2024
read moreread less

As a Scot loved it, seemed great. Sadly moved to outdoor front as my 18 year old was with me and sun was challenging first half hour. . Strange how policy differs from establishment to establishment in Cincy on adult minors! Loved the beer and food, I had turkey option, (although a 'banger' is fried or baked but never 'gekocht' so disappointed there). As I said it looks great. Wanted to try some bourbon too, as I was in 'Rome', but felt isolated and pushed outside. That said great malt selection as a someone who seeks my national drink normally. At 5pm, I think you'd do better by groups with adult nondrinkers by being more welcoming. Other wise I'd offer 5stars. That said Scottish folk it's a must if in toon! - 5/09/2024
read moreread less
TimP
The several times that I have come to Nicholson's, I have always enjoyed the food, drinks, and the atmosphere. One thing to note is that if you are needing a quick bite, then Nicholson's might not be the best fit for your needs. If you have the time, the food and drinks are worth the wait! - 5/06/2024
read moreread less
Service was fantastic. We had a show after eating and they did a great job of managing our order with how busy the kitchen was to ensure we had plenty of time to eat and get to our show on time. Food was very good. My pork chop was just slightly overdone. But, nothing major. Outside of that food was fantastic. - 4/28/2024
read moreread less
Eric D.

read moreread less
SeafoodLover
Had a wonderful dinner at Nicholson’s! Felt like we were in Scotland! Beautiful decor and atmosphere - our room had a roaring fire that was very cozy on a chilly night. The servers were all attentive; our was Emma and she made some good recommendations. We loved the fact that they all wore kilts. Food was excellent. We started with the Scotch egg and we all had the shepherds pie, which was delicious! And of course, no UK meal is complete without sticky toffee pudding! Prices were very reasonable too. Great find in this busy city. Real men wear kilts! - 4/07/2024
read moreread less
