Northside - Cincinnati, OH

Northside began in the early 1820s as a small neighborhood with only a few residents, a handful of businesses and a tavern. A few years later, an influx of German immigrants brought new residents to this growing neighborhood. By the turn of the century, Northside was a business district where the wealthy citizens of Cincinnati could find an oasis of high-quality merchants, shops and manufacturing.

After World War II, the boom in industry throughout Cincinnati and the rise in highway construction drove residents away from Northside. Residents who once needed to live near shopping and dining could now commute instead. In the 1950s and '60s, Northside's popularity declined.

A few decades later, Northside regained popularity. Its lower home prices attracted first-time buyers, and young residents began to reinvigorate the neighborhood. Now, Northside has a rich German heritage as well as the vitality of new business and culture.

Northside offers a variety of small, independent restaurants as unique as the neighborhood itself. Whether you're craving gourmet tacos, vegan chili or would prefer to belly up to the bar for trivia, Northside has an option for everyone.

For the widest selection of vegetarian, vegan and organic options in the city, Melt Eclectic Cafe can't be missed. Locals rave about the hot sandwiches and their Artichoke Melt is a must-try. For those with spicier tastes, the Buffalo Mac & Cheese is a real treat. Melt has options for meat-eaters too, including free-range turkey sandwiches and wraps.

When you crave something a little more western, head over to Django's Western Taco for authentic beef, shrimp or chicken tacos served on hand-made corn tortillas. If you're feeling adventurous, give the Al Pastor a try. These tacos come loaded with pork, pineapple, mint and cilantro.

For the trivia buffs looking to test their skills, Northside Tavern offers trivia night in the back bar every Monday at 8 p.m. Head in a few minutes early for happy-hour specials on a wide range of local and craft beers. The bar doesn't serve food, so bring your favorite carry-out or homemade dish to fuel your brain while testing your trivia chops.

With all of its restaurants, shops, and businesses located within just a few city blocks, Northside provides a pedestrian-friendly option for its residents. Locals in Northside can check out books at the library, grab a latte, cash a check at the bank and browse handmade gifts, all on a morning walk.

Local bus lines coordinated through SORTA provide access to nearly all other areas of the city, and a short drive to Interstate 75 provides a quick 10-minute commute to downtown. The streets include bike lanes in most areas, and the Mill Creek Greenway Trail, located just south of the neighborhood's central streets, provides a convenient alternative for cyclists, runners and walkers.

With a variety of local parks, greenways and trails, Northside has outdoor options for everyone. In the heart of the neighborhood, Spring Grove Cemetery offers over three miles of scenic, hilly walking trails. Directly adjacent, the Mill Creek Greenway Trail provides even more paved trails for walkers, bikers and runners alike. Bring your furry friend along to these trails, where leashed pets are always welcome.

If you're Interested in forging your way off-road, Buttercup Valley Nature Preserve offers wooded hiking trails, with more intense inclines and challenging terrain for the skilled adventurer. You'll forget you're even in the city as you explore both a paved and woodland trail. Look out for a prairie habitat, meadow and an unbeatable view of Spring Grove Cemetery. Additionally, the Parker's Preserve trail provides a shorter, less intense option for the casual or beginning hiker to enjoy.

Jacob Hoffner Park, located within the neighborhood's business and restaurant district, hosts a wide range of events and activities throughout the year. In addition to the weekly farmer's market, residents from all over the city flock to Northside for the Fourth of July Rock n' Roll Carnival. This event, free for all ages, hosts local bands, vendors, food and more.

Residents of Northside enjoy a cost of living comparable to the city average. A bus ride to the city center costs $1.75 and the cost of gas remains generally equal to the national average.. The cost of leasing apartments or houses can range from affordable to luxurious, depending on location and amenities. A one-bedroom apartment in Northside costs around $400 per month on the economical end, and $650-$700 per month in a freshly remodeled location. You can expect to pay $5-$6 for a pint at the local bars.

Northside offers a variety of shopping options, from national chains to independent boutiques. If you like boutique shopping, Northside has a wide selection of options to explore. Check out Shake it Records to browse racks of vinyl, CDs and cassettes from the Bee Gees to Michael Jackson. Unearth a 1950s-era wedding gown or the perfect antique jewelry at Casablanca Vintage on Spring Grove Avenue.

Kroger, in the southeast corner of Northside, provides convenient grocery shopping for local residents. For imported Asian food, stop by Happy Asian Mart in nearby Corryville. A highlight of Northside shopping is the Northside Farmer's Market, which runs on Wednesday afternoons year-round. In the summer months, locals shop for fresh produce, baked goods and sweets at the market in Jacob Hoffner Park. From October to May, the market moves indoors to North Presbyterian Church Auditorium.