The Filson provides a new kind of dining experience while paying homage to the city’s founder
If The Banks wasn’t already a hotspot for those looking to enjoy a night on the town or for a place to visit on their way to Great American Ballpark and Paycor Stadium, locals now have another reason to visit thanks to the addition of The Filson, an upscale sports bar with a relaxed and approachable atmosphere.
Jasmine Souverein, marketing coordinator at The Filson, says the establishment serves up local beer flights, specialty cocktails and its famous “beertails” as well as a menu to compliment any drink that includes pizzas, salads, burgers, shrimp and grits, and salmon.
“The Filson has everything you want and need, whether it’s for a date night, family night, a boozy brunch or a quick bite before the big game,” she says.
The inspiration behind The Filson comes from one of the city’s founding fathers—John Filson. “The spot where the restaurant is located is the very spot where Filson began his surveying of what would become Cincinnati,” says Souverein. “Filson first named this area ‘Losantiville,’ meaning the town opposite the mouth of the Licking River. Upon his disappearance in 1788, Losantiville was renamed ‘Cincinnati’ by Israel Ludlow in honor of the Society of the Cincinnati.”
When you browse the menu at The Filson, you’ll see a variety of options including the Smoked Trout Dip, Burrata salad and Fried Shrimp Po’Boy. Other food options include the BRG Famous Chicken and Kale Salad. Then, to wash it down, Souverein recommends a Stadium Shandy “beertail” or a specialty cocktail like Romero’s Bad Habit.
“Guests also love other menu favorites like our filet mignon steak sandwich, Bourbon Street Pasta or the Hangover Burger,” she says.
Whether you’re looking for a historic dining experience or simply want to visit an upscale sports bar, you’ll find that The Filson caters to both. The building boasts tall ceilings, elaborate leather booths built by Cincinnati-based Orange Chair, penny tile flooring and globe lights. “The upper walls are adorned with an incredible display of picture frames, taking you through Cincinnati’s forgotten, unique and fun history,” says Souverein.
And while the design of the space is always important, Souverein says The Filson also spent a great deal of time on building the right team to create the experience they want to provide guests. “We have a great team comprised of the right people who are fun, energetic and knowledgeable about our vast menu and ready to guide you through the entire experience,” she adds.
The Filson, 25 E. Freedom Way, The Banks. M-Th 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., F & Sa 11 a.m.-midnight, Su 11 a.m.-10 p.m. 513-653-6700, thefilson.com.
