Mainstrasse is one of the Northern Kentucky spots that booms in warmer months. With countless events, businesses and bars to patronize, it’s always an entertaining place to be. This Streetscapes, we spill the tea on all things Main Street.
KungBrew Cafe
Speaking of tea, the newest addition to the Mainstrasse community brings tea and coffee in an inviting atmosphere. This unique space blends Japanese tea culture with a modern coffee shop while highlighting structural and historic elements of the building. The interior is filled with murals, antique furniture and one-of-a-kind tea kettles and cups.
KungBrew is owned by Hana and Johnny Chu, who also own nearby KungFood AmerAsia restaurant. Hana Chu runs the cafe. Their primary focus is bringing quality teas to Northern Kentucky, but, when they saw a need for a coffee shop in the area, they added that to their menu. Boba tea – often called bubble tea – will soon amplify the tasty options.
Tea can be ordered by the pot, for those spending the afternoon immersed in a book in their comfortable cafe, or individually for those on the go. Green, black, herbal and oolong cover the tea basics; lattes, cappuccinos and macchiatos cover the coffee side. Pastries, both Asian- and American-inspired, are available to order to complement the beverages.
Mama’s On Main
Very few restaurants have taken the world – well, the region – by storm as quickly as Mama’s On Main. Since opening two years ago, nearly everyone in the area was trying to nab reservations at this Italian eatery. Guests who have been know why.
Mama’s interior is accented in reds and blues with pops of seemingly random decor elements. Guests in the main dining area have stunning stained glass as their dining backdrop. A wedding dress welcomes guests as they walk upstairs. Outdoors sports pops of color both on the sidewalk and the patio overlooking busy Main Street.
The decor and ambiance alone are enough to draw crowds, and we haven’t even mentioned the food yet.
Mama’s serves a small and somewhat seasonal menu of Italian dishes. Focaccia and whipped ricotta is a great starter to tide over hungry diners until their entrees arrive. Chicken parmesan, rigatoni with vodka sauce or classic spaghetti and meatballs are just some of the most popular options.
For a truly Italian experience, one almost has to order wine to accompany a meal. Regardless of preference, there are ample options for all tastes at Mama’s. Cocktails, mocktails and beer complete the drinks menu.
Crafts and Vines
With nearly endless options for libations in Mainstrasse, it’s hard to choose just one. Crafts and Vines offers two – beer and wine – for those who just can’t decide.
Crafts and Vine stands out as a sit-and-stay-awhile option and a place to relax and converse. This is not the place for those wanting loud music or dancing (I could offer suggestions a few doors down for that kind of fun). Sometimes the casual, comfortable setting of Crafts and Vines is just what one needs for a night out.
Best known for its options of local craft beers, on-tap wine and craft cocktails, Crafts and Vine is a great stop before or after dinner. Better yet, try the charcuterie and light bar bites and hang out on the enclosed patio. It also offer a monthly wine club, a great gift for friends and family wanting to expand their wine palettes. That’s in addition to events, live music and taco Tuesday. There’s a bit of fun for everyone.
What To Know If You Go
KungBrew Cafe
Location: 640 Main St., Covington
Hours: Monday closed; Tuesday-Sunday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m.
Mama’s On Main
Location: 621 Main St., Covington
Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 5-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 5-10 p.m.
Website: mamasonmain.com
Phone: 859-360- 6051
Crafts and Vine
Location: 642 Main St., Covington
Hours: Sunday, noon-7 p.m.; Monday, closed; Tuesday-Thursday, 4-10 p.m.,
Website: craftsandvines.com
Phone: 859-360-0476