El patio at Nada

Being frequent diners (at least as frequent as living in Columbus will allow) of Boca in Cincinnati, we had to try out Boca’s sister restaurant, Nada. Also, our Cincinnati contact, the Galvinator, highly recommended Nada. Let me say that Nada definitely exceeds any limitations imposed by its name. In fact, it was so good that we made another trip down to Cincinnati for the sole purpose of visiting Nada a second time. Plus it has a sweet patio. If you go, I would suggest patio dining if the weather is nice. Dining indoors is a bit noisy and seems much more hectic than a leisurely meal outside.

El Gazpacho at Nada

I will have to consult with an expatriot friend as to whether Gazpacho is readily found in Mexico. Traditionally a Spanish dish, I wouldn’t be too surprised if the early Spaniards introduced it to Mexico and it stuck. Anyhow, it has found its way to Cincinnati, and it made for a lovely summer soup. My camera failed to capture reality as the soup had a deeper crimson tint than is reflected in the lens.

Tortilla soup at Nada

We gave the tortilla soup a shot as well. It was probably more appropriate for a colder day but still very enjoyable.

One word of warning, the chips, salsa and guacamole were so good that we went through four baskets in no time. I’m sure that the chips were not made with an eye towards healthy eating. Overindulgence of the chips will also affect the rest of the meal. On our second trip we stopped at two baskets.

Ceviche at Nada

I also sampled the Ceviche: tasty but not spectacular.

Pork belly tacos chez Nada

Here was the highlight of the meal – Pork belly tacos. These things were sinfully decadent. They were so rich that I believe most people would have trouble eating two. And just forget about downing all three in one sitting.

Tacos Carnitas at Nada

Here are the tacos carnitas. These were not quite as rib-stickin’ as the pork-bellied ones but still a challenge to get through. And how ’bout that presentation – very nicely done.

Chicken tacos at Nada

All I can tell you about the chicken tacos is our friend wouldn’t share them with us. Perhaps they were just that good. Nevertheless, if you go, I would opt for the pork or beef tacos. Chicken is just too boring. I had the Tacos Barbacoa on my second visit and enjoyed those as much as the carnitas and pork belly tacos.

Churros and coffee style drinks with little actual coffee

Looking back at it, I’m wondering how we survived this incredibly rich meal. But what a great way to finish with some Spanish doughnuts and high octane coffee. By the way, Nada has a great premium tequila list. On my second visit, I tried some Don Julio Anejo in a sipping glass. It was exquisite!

So if Columbus’ offerings have you down, take a road trip to Cinci and enjoy what is probably the best city in Ohio and some damn fine eats.

Nada
600 Walnut Street
Cincinnati, Ohio

513-721-NADA

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