Al-Amir Cafe opens in downtown Cincinnati's 8th Street Design District

Downtown Cincinnati's 8th Street Design District has a relatively new food option.  Al-Amir Cafe is now open inside the small space previously occupied by the 8th Street Deli Cafe, and is serving up authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Located at 326 E. 8th Street, Al-Amir offers everything from sharwarma, kabobs, gryos, and falafels to burgers, chicken, fish, and salads.  Appetizers include a similarly diverse collection of items like baba ghanoush, foule, grape leaves, and onion rings, fries, breaded mushrooms and chicken tenders.

The restaurant is located within an 85-year-old structure immediately east of the popular Blue Wisp Jazz Club, and the 1,460 square-foot restaurant space includes both indoor and outdoor seating.

What has most downtown residents happy is the restaurant's hours of operation and affordable prices.  Al-Amir is currently open Monday through Friday from 10:30am to 10pm; Saturdays from 10:30am to 11pm; and Sundays from 12pm to 7pm.

Food prices range from $4 for an appetizer, $5-8 for a kabob, and $12-19 for certain entree dishes.  Those looking for a quick bite over lunch can grab a meal for $5 to $20 that includes the entree, fries and a drink.

Al-Amir currently offers both catering and carryout.  Orders can be placed by calling (513) 721-9299.

Writer: Randy A. Simes
Photography by Scott Beseler
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