Carlo Johnny - Cincinnati

My wife and I celebrated our 4th anniversary at Carlo Johnny, and it was the best culinary experience we've ever had. Our server, Joe, was humble, attentive, an... read more My wife and I celebrated our 4th anniversary at Carlo Johnny, and it was the best culinary experience we've ever had. Our server, Joe, was humble, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable about both the menu and the history of the building. Highly recommended!

My daughters held a rehearsal in the Liquor Room. The space is beautifully decorated, featuring doors that allow for a cozy and intimate dinner experience. read more My daughters held a rehearsal in the Liquor Room. The space is beautifully decorated, featuring doors that allow for a cozy and intimate dinner experience.

As much as I love steak, it’s surprising that I had never been to a Jeff Ruby's restaurant before. Last Christmas, they had a gift card sale, and... read more As much as I love steak, it’s surprising that I had never been to a Jeff Ruby's restaurant before. Last Christmas, they had a gift card sale, and...

To make matters worse, a group of ten walked in without a reservation (they were quite loud about it) and were promptly seated while we waited much longer than... read more To make matters worse, a group of ten walked in without a reservation (they were quite loud about it) and were promptly seated while we waited much longer than we should have. We finally got a table 48 minutes after our reservation time, just a table away from the VIPs who were already enjoying their second course. We eventually got water and bread, and at some point, our drink orders were taken. Our server was clearly skilled; we noticed how well he attended to the VIP table. Unfortunately, he was lackluster in his service to us and, as far as we could tell, to other tables he managed. When the manager inquired about our experience, we expressed our feelings honestly but politely. He generously took off about 50% of our bill, which we appreciated. While it was a nice gesture for our wallets, it didn’t do much to improve our overall experience. Also, what’s the deal with the open bowl of jelly beans in the reception area? It’s kind of disgusting. There’s a spoon provided, but more than one person had their hands in it. While we waited (endlessly) for our table, I noticed other potential diners eyeing it. I thought to myself, “You realize people have been sneezing on those all day?” Fortunately, they decided against trying the jelly beans. Isn’t that a health code violation? If it’s not, it certainly should be! And what about that odd portrait of Jeff Ruby behind the reception desk? It’s bizarre and pretty terrible. I’m not sure if it’s always been there, but I had plenty of time to study it during our wait. Jeff Ruby used to be synonymous with great food and great experiences, but now this visit has left a stain on our special occasion memories. We’ll never return.

We recently held a group dinner for friends at C&J, and, as always, the food and service were exceptional. We consistently look forward to each dining experienc... read more We recently held a group dinner for friends at C&J, and, as always, the food and service were exceptional. We consistently look forward to each dining experience at Ruby's establishments.