Anchor Grill

The ultimate dive in the greater Cincinnati area has got to be the Anchor Grill. This place hasn't changed much since the first time I visited over 40 years ago.

Basic diner food, well made, great value, unique experience.

Like many mom and pop places of a particular era, the Anchor Grill is cash only and defies local rules about smoking indoors. I don't know if they're grandfathered out of the rule, or they just don't care. In either case, the faint smell of stale smoke did not detract from the experience.

The servings are large and made to order. If they're busy you may have to wait for a while, but it is well worth it.

I recommend the Anchor Grill as an experience of its own. No pretense at all. It's a dive in all the best possible ways.

It's hard not to like Anchor grill. It's as "local greasy spoon" as it gets, but it has a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Sort of if your Mom and a couple of her friends opened a diner, and you stopped in for dinner. The staff are friendly and polite, and the food is surprisingly solid. If I'm in the Midwest, I have to satisfy my breaded, fried pork tenderloin sandwich craving. Theirs is thin but decent, and you can't beat the price. Cash only. Give it a try. The pancakes look great. If you're not a local, be aware many restaurants here allow you to smoke inside, and this is one of them.

Went in Wednesday morning 4/17. Took insulin before I went in so I needed to ear quick. She walked and talked for 15 minutes. Providing a cup of coffee her and there and bringing out a few plates. Then waited another 3 to 5 minutes while she talked to 2 regulars and showing pics on her phone. Food finally comes I am starving and sugar is dropping. She said an extra pancake was on the plate. I said I'm diabetic and don't want it. She got smart and said in a loud voice you don't have to eat it. That was the last straw. With out taking a bit I said how much is it and headed for the door. She wanted me out and said don't worry about it just go. She should not be doing that job. It totally suckedt

Entering this building was like stepping back into the 1950's. I loved it! This was a recommendation from dinner the night before, and it did not disappoint. Service was stellar! The restaurant and restrooms were very clean. Friendly locals were there first thing in the morning. My son and I had biscuits and sausage gravy with a huge order of hash browns. My wife had a huge Mexican omelet. The food was very good,and three huge meals were only 28.00. I was blown away. We will be back in Cincinnati for concerts, and this will be our go to breakfast spot for sure.

If you're looking for a quick bite to eat or breakfast this is good. Still has the original decor from when it first opened. Unfortunately not smoke free though. The great customer service made up for this.

I ordered the anchor burger & fries. My companion got the biscuits & gravy. With one soft drink (coke products) the bill was around $16. We went around 5:45, the place was empty besides us and one other customer. We sat at the counter and was waited on quickly. They have lots of booth seating also. The burger was simple, nothing fancy, but delicious! The fries are thick crinkle cut and were perfect! The B&G was on point, lots of sausage. It was decorated in anchors and lighthouses and signs with sassy sayings. It was exactly what you want a greasy spoon, hole in the wall to be.
The only negatives: It's a cash only business.
And smoking is allowed, but there is no designated smoking section.

From the owner to the staff are nothing short of amazing. Nothing but love and respect from you walk in the door . They damn near know what I want walking in the door . The cheesecake is amazing . Salmon croquettes on Friday are good . French toast is really good . The list goes on and on.

I was going to wax poetic about what the comfort this place is. I can't. Words can't describe. My recommendation and never lose. Order what you want. Be polite. Overtip. No seriously! Overtip.

Great local spot! Cash Only so be warned! Great menu and vibe! Could tell this was where the locals went. Great old diner! Goetta which is a local speciality was tasty. Breakfast and lunch menu available.

Everything is good, for a mom and pop diner it has a certain charm. The service is personable and the food is consistently above average, never had a bad meal here and if I had a better workout regiment I would come back more often. Regardless, a real good breakfast lunch and dinner if you love classic American eats