Cincy Hot Takes
Cincinnati. A city of rolling hills, winding rivers, and opinions—lots of them. Whether it's a heated debate over chili supremacy or the never-ending East vs. West side rivalry, Cincinnatians have a knack for turning the mundane into passionate discourse. Beneath the quirks and civic pride lies a city with a rich cultural tapestry, full of contradictions that only add to its charm.
Skyline Chili is Overrated
Skyline Chili holds an almost mythical status in Cincinnati, where locals will defend their favorite three-way with the fervor of a Bengals fan on game day. But let’s be honest for a moment: the thin, cinnamon-spiced chili is more of an acquired taste than an undisputed culinary treasure. Outsiders stare in bewilderment at the spaghetti-chili-cheese trifecta, wondering if it’s an elaborate prank. Even within the city limits, there’s a quiet faction of dissenters who opt for Gold Star’s slightly sweeter take or whisper of homemade versions that pack more traditional flavor. Skyline's charm lies in its nostalgia, the ritual of late-night runs and childhood memories—but as a dish, it leans heavily on familiarity rather than bold flavor.
The West Side vs. East Side Divide is Overblown
Ah, the great East vs. West debate—a battle waged in living rooms, bars, and high school reunions across the city. West Siders pride themselves on their deep-rooted traditions and loyalty, while East Siders boast of their progressive charm and hipster enclaves. But when you really break it down, the differences are more about perception than reality. Both sides have their quirks: the West Side loves its community parishes and backyard barbecues, while the East Side thrives on trendy brunch spots and craft breweries. The divide is mostly a fun bit of local folklore rather than an actual cultural chasm, and at the end of the day, we’re all united in our mutual disdain for out-of-towners who call it "Cincy."
Fountain Square is Just Okay
If you’ve ever heard a Cincinnati tour guide wax poetic about Fountain Square, you might have expected a grand piazza buzzing with life and energy. The reality? It’s nice—pleasant, even—but hardly the vibrant hub it’s made out to be. Sure, it’s a decent gathering spot, especially during events like Oktoberfest or ice skating season, but most of the time, it feels more like a place you pass through rather than a destination. The programming can be repetitive, and let's face it, there’s no shortage of other parts of the city with more personality and charm. Over-the-Rhine, anyone?
Cincinnati is Actually a Southern City
On paper, Cincinnati sits firmly in the Midwest. But take a stroll through its neighborhoods, and you’ll find a city with a distinctly Southern soul. The hospitality, the love for bourbon, and the fondness for storytelling all suggest a closer kinship to Louisville than Cleveland. From goetta to grits, the food carries echoes of Southern influence, and the pace of life here is just a touch slower than your typical northern metropolis. So while geography might say Midwest, Cincinnati’s heart beats to a different rhythm—one with a bit of twang.
Oktoberfest is Overhyped
Yes, Cincinnati boasts the largest Oktoberfest outside of Germany, but let’s not pretend it’s an authentic Bavarian experience. Sure, the beer flows freely and the chicken dances are plentiful, but at its core, Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is more of a commercialized beer bash than a cultural celebration. The bratwurst and schnitzel are decent, but you're just as likely to encounter a bloated food stall selling pretzel bites as you are a proper German delicacy. It’s a good time, no doubt, but some locals quietly roll their eyes at the spectacle and opt for a more intimate experience at one of the city’s authentic German restaurants.
The Traffic Isn't That Bad
Cincinnatians love to complain about traffic. "The Brent Spence is a nightmare!" they’ll cry. "71 is backed up again!" But let's be real—compared to gridlocked cities like Chicago, Atlanta, or Los Angeles, our traffic is a minor inconvenience. Rush hour delays here mean adding an extra ten minutes to your commute, not sitting in bumper-to-bumper purgatory for hours. With scenic routes along the river and quick jaunts to Northern Kentucky, Cincinnati drivers have it relatively easy.
People Take High School Allegiances Too Seriously
In Cincinnati, your high school is your identity. Long after graduation, people introduce themselves with their alma mater, and rivalries run deep—sometimes deeper than necessary. The Moeller-Elder rivalry is treated with the same gravity as an NFL playoff game, and GCL vs. GMC debates rage in offices and family gatherings. It’s endearing, sure, but maybe—just maybe—it’s time to dial it down a notch. After all, there’s life beyond Friday night lights.
Cincinnati's Weather is Actually Pretty Great
Sure, we love to moan about the unpredictable weather—"If you don’t like the weather in Cincinnati, wait five minutes!"—but in reality, our climate offers a little bit of everything without the extremes. Summers are warm but bearable, winters see just enough snow to be picturesque without being apocalyptic, and fall? Well, it's downright magical. The vibrant autumn foliage that blankets Eden Park and Mount Adams could give New England a run for its money.
Cincinnati is full of surprises, contradictions, and a deep sense of pride. And whether you’re debating chili, neighborhoods, or the weather, one thing’s for sure—this city has plenty to talk about. Love it or not, it’s home, and that’s something worth celebrating.