For authentic Italian cuisine in Ohio that’s straight from the Old World, you must be prepared to go on an adventure. In downtown Cincinnati, venture beneath the old cobblestone streets to Sotto, an underground restaurant in Ohio that’s easily one of the most unique and incredible places you’ll ever dine. The food is rustic yet refined, the vibe is somehow both familiar and uncanny, and the experience is wholly unrivaled.

Beneath the streets of Cincinnati, Ohio, a subterranean world of fine wine and Italian cuisine awaits.

Jim Reisman/Google Local

This is Sotto, an underground restaurant in Cincinnati, Ohio, that’s one of the most unique places to dine in the state. The basement that once housed legendary Cincinnati chef Nat Comisar’s first restaurant, La Normandie, is now home to a restaurant of equal notoriety. Sotto, for reference, is Italian for below.

Sotto/Google Local

Known for its ambiance and original features, this charming, subterranean eatery is like stepping into a hidden wine cellar in the Old Country.

Sotto/Facebook

Sotto’s underground digs make for the ideal wine cellar conditions, and you have quite a variety from which to choose!

Joshua Smith/Google Local

Start your meal off with a charcuterie board, featuring formaggi, salumi, and other tantalizing treats.

Sotto/Facebook

From there, don’t be afraid to be a bit adventurous. Everything at Sotto is inspired, seasonal, and stunning.

Sotto/Facebook

Don’t be afraid to try something new when dining at this unique spot. The grilled quail is tender and light, and when paired when seasonal vegetables and fresh pasta? Chef’s kiss!

Yoda Mama/Google Local

Real, authentic Italian food is seafood forward, with delicate touches of herbs and aromatics. Sotto’s grilled octopus is a must-try dish for pescatarians and carnivores alike.

Julie Zhou/Google Local

And if you’re a traditionalist, you cannot go wrong with Sotto’s handmade pasta. Have your server grate just a dusting of parmesan, and prepare for a taste bud explosion!

Sotto/Facebook

Finish your meal with something sweet; the gelato is divine.

Adam Wannemacher/Google Local

Sotto isn’t simply a restaurant; it’s an experience.

Sotto/Facebook

And this underground restaurant in Ohio is a special, unique, and completely memorable dining experience.

Sotto/Facebook

Have you ever dined at this underground restaurant in Ohio before? Plan your subterranean culinary adventure by visiting the Sotto website.

Jim Reisman/Google Local

Sotto/Google Local

Sotto/Facebook

Joshua Smith/Google Local

Yoda Mama/Google Local

Julie Zhou/Google Local

Adam Wannemacher/Google Local

For more bucket-list-worthy restaurants in the Buckeye State, check out these 12 superlative spots.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Sotto, 118 E 6th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202, USA