Empress Chili, the original creators of Cincinnati-style chili, in Alexandria. Photo by Maria Hehman | LINK nky contributor

This story originally appeared in the May 10, 2024 edition of the LINK Reader. To get stories like this first, subscribe here.

This Streetscapes heads to Campbell County to visit some small businesses along Alexandria Pike. Although historic Lou Lou’s Cafe closed earlier this year, there are still several worthy independent businesses to patronize. 

Honey Hole Bar and Grill

Honey Hole is a bit hidden and often overlooked by the numerous chains and fast food eateries directly across the road. Honey Hole serves traditional bar food – wings, burgers and all the fried sides one can dream of. Their laid back atmosphere is the ideal spot for a bucket of beers, watching a game and chatting with friends. 

Nothing pairs better with a bucket of beer than Honey Hole’s famous wings. There are traditional bone in, boneless and cauliflower, with an impressive 16 sauces. Burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads and pizza all add to their menu ensuring options for everyone. The Joey B burger is a must during a Bengals game. With a Cajun-seasoned burger, Cajun shrimp, pepper jack cheese and homemade remoulade sauce, it’s all the sustenance one needs to get through game day.

Honey Hole also has an exterior patio tucked behind the building that conceals much of the noise of a very busy section along Alexandria Pike.  

Empress Chili

Cincinnati chili has been in the news lately, thanks to Skyline’s announcement that it would switch from Pepsi to Coke. When the food is as good as Empress’, patrons forget about what soda they serve. (It’s Coke, by the way.)

Cincinnati and NKY natives have the founders of Empress Chili to thank for the everlasting debate of the best Cincinnati style chili. As the place that created it, there’s no doubt that Empress Chili is always a front runner. Originally located in Cincinnati, the Alexandria location is the last one left of a chain that started the craze. 

The Empress interior is frozen in time and is the perfect complement to the timeless recipes. Guests can stick to the classics – coneys, three-, four- or five-ways – or indulge in newer creations, like a chili pizza. It’s all the favorite flavors of Cincinnati style chili on top of a crispy pizza crust. 

Empress’ menu doesn’t end at chili. It also has a wide selection of salads and sandwiches. Whether it’s a classic turkey sandwich, a Reuben or a chef salad, they have tasty choices for all occasions. 

The original chili parlor is worth the visit for both history and foodie fans. 

Traditions Family Restaurant 

This mom-and-pop breakfast and lunch joint is farther back from the main hub along Alexandria Pike. Locals and one-time visitors experience classic homestyle foods, including one of the area’s most legendary breakfasts. Guests can never go wrong in ordering biscuits and gravy.

Other savory options include breakfast burritos, skillet bowls, omelets and eggs.Those with a sweet tooth have pancakes and French toast for decadent options. Burgers, chicken and fish take up the majority of the lunch menu, with salads, sandwiches, soup and chili rounding out the options. 

The interior at Traditions is simple, just like eating your grandma’s cooking in her kitchen. This breakfast and lunch spot has drawn celebrity from all over the region for its simple and classic dishes and cheap prices. 

What to Know If You Go 

Honey Hole Bar and Grill

Location: 7501 Alexandria Pike, Alexandria 

Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. midnight.

Phone: 859-694-4018

Empress Chili 

Location: 7934 Alexandria Pike, Alexandria 

Hours: Sunday, closed; Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Website: empresschilialexandria.com

Phone: 859-635-5900

Traditions Family Restaurant

Location: 11500 Alexandria Pike, Alexandria

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Phone: 859-635-3663