You’re driving up the steep, winding roads of Price Hill, probably wondering if you took a wrong turn, when suddenly the city opens up. This is the Incline District. It’s got that gritty, revived energy that Cincinnati does better than almost anywhere else. Right in the middle of it sits Somm Wine Bar Cincinnati.
Most people think wine bars have to be stuffy. They expect white tablecloths, silent rooms, and a waiter who looks at you like you’re an idiot because you can't pronounce Gewürztraminer. Honestly? Somm is the exact opposite of that. It’s loud, it’s cozy, and it’s arguably the best place in the city to drink a heavy red while sitting next to a fire pit.
The Incline District Vibe
The first thing you’ve got to understand about Somm is the location. It’s at 3105 Price Avenue. If you aren't from the West Side, you might not realize how much of a "thing" this neighborhood has become. You have the Incline Public House right down the street with that famous view, but Somm offers something more intimate.
It feels like a neighborhood secret.
The building itself fits the aesthetic—modern but warm. But the real magic is the patio. In a city where "outdoor seating" often means two metal chairs on a sidewalk next to a bus stop, Somm’s back patio is a legit sanctuary. We’re talking string lights, a fountain that actually masks the street noise, and fire tables that make you want to stay for three more glasses than you planned.
The Wine List: No, You Don't Need to Be an Expert
Mark Wimmers, the owner, set this place up to be approachable. That’s a word that gets thrown around a lot in marketing, but here it’s real.
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The menu usually features around 80 different wines. That sounds like a lot. It is a lot. But they break it down by style rather than just region, which helps if you know you like "crisp whites" but don't know the difference between a Sancerre and a Pinot Grigio.
- Half-Glass Pours: This is the game-changer. They offer 3 oz pours. Why does this matter? Because you can try a $100 bottle of Barolo without committing to the full price of a glass or bottle.
- The Captain’s List: If you’re feeling fancy, they keep high-end stuff like Caymus or Silver Oak under Coravin, so the wine stays fresh even after the bottle is opened.
- Monthly Flights: On the last Wednesday of the month, they usually do themed flights. One month it’s "Wines of Spain," the next it’s "South of France." It’s basically a cheap vacation.
Let’s Talk About the Food (It’s Not Just Crackers)
A lot of wine bars treat food as an afterthought. A sad little bowl of olives or some sweaty cheese. Not here.
Chef Mark Fullman handles the kitchen, and the menu is surprisingly meaty. Yes, you can get the "obligatory" charcuterie board—which is great, don’t get me wrong—but you should probably look at the actual entrees.
The steak and blue cheese panini is basically a grown-up version of a grilled cheese, and it’s spectacular. If you’re there during Restaurant Week or one of their wine dinners, you might find things like Coq au Vin or Pan Seared Halibut.
The calamari is a sleeper hit. It’s sautéed, not fried, with chorizo and tomatoes. It’s salty, spicy, and pairs perfectly with a dry Rosé or a chilled Vermentino.
What People Get Wrong
The biggest misconception is that Somm is just for "date night."
Sure, the Edison bulbs and fire pits scream "romantic evening," but I’ve seen plenty of people there just grabbing a beer—they have a solid "Crispy Boi" list with local favorites—and a burger. It’s a community hub.
Also, don't assume the West Side is "too far." From downtown, you're literally five minutes away. The drive up the hill is worth it just for the transition from city chaos to neighborhood chill.
Survival Guide for Your First Visit
- Check the Calendar: They do live music on weekends. If you want a quiet, whispering-over-candles vibe, go on a Tuesday. If you want energy, Friday is your night.
- The Patio is Non-Negotiable: Even if it's slightly chilly, the fire tables are legit. Grab a seat outside if you can.
- Ask the Server: Honestly, the staff knows their stuff. If you tell them "I like wine that tastes like a campfire," they won't laugh. They'll probably bring you a smoky Syrah or a Peated Scotch cocktail.
- Try the "DOMA": It’s a homemade roasted red pepper spread they sometimes have. It’s addictive. Buy a jar if they’re selling them.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
If you're planning to head to Somm Wine Bar Cincinnati this week, here is the move:
- Parking: It can be tight on Price Ave. If the front is full, look for street parking a block over. It’s a safe, walkable neighborhood.
- Reservations: Use Tock or call ahead (+1 513-244-5843), especially if you want a table on the patio during peak hours.
- The "Half-Pour" Strategy: Order two different 3 oz pours to start. It’s the best way to figure out what you’re in the mood for without the "oops, I hate this $15 glass" regret.
- Wine Club: If you live nearby, ask about their wine club. They do monthly dinners that are usually a steal considering the quality of the pairings.
Go for the wine, stay for the fire pit, and definitely don't skip the steak panini.