A re-opening of a beloved favorite and a grand opening of a new public space are the latest developments in the ongoing transformation of Cincinnati, Ohio’s Convention District. Coming back after a two-year absence is Salazar, the eponymous New American eatery from renowned chef Jose Salazar. Relocated from its original space in Cincinnati’s historic Over-the-Rhine District, the new Salazar now sits on the ground floor of 101 W. 5th Street, just a stone’s throw from the renovated convention center. Fans of the old location will notice nearly five times more space in the new building, which includes three private dining rooms and the ability to accommodate groups of up to 50.
“Opening Salazar in a significantly larger space is a transformative step for us,” said Salazar, in a prepared statement. “It unlocks a wide range of possibilities—not only as a restaurant, but as a venue for special occasions, celebrations, corporate events, and more. We now have the capacity to host larger gatherings, something that wasn’t feasible before. We’re excited to bring Salazar to life in the Fountain District and look forward to what the future holds in this new space.”
Groups who want to sample more of Salazar’s cuisine can head across the street to Mita’s, which has become a downtown fixture for unique takes on Latin American cuisine. Also opening soon nearby, and in the same building as Salazar, is Flight Club Cincinnati, a darts bar featuring elevated food and cocktails, offering another fun activity for groups. That building is located at the corner of 5th and Elm, and at the same intersection is a new public space across from the convention center, Elm Street Plaza.
Elm Street Plaza is the first major project to open as part of the $800 million Convention District project. It features 2.5 acres of outdoor space, offering amenities like a winter ice rink, seasonal installations, public art, an outdoor bar, a dog park, and more. The plaza will be available as flexible indoor/outdoor space for the nearby convention center, or open to the public.
The next major project expected to open in the Convention District project is the convention center itself, planned to open in January.
Main Image: Elm Street Plaza; Credit: Visit Cincy
