This story originally appeared in the Dec. 16 edition of the weekly LINK Reader. To get these stories first, subscribe here.
There are Northern Kentucky classics and staples that even I, a longtime resident of the area, have somehow missed. In this streetscapes, come explore a world famous restaurant, an inventive coffee shop and a rustic bourbon bar.
Pompilios: 600 Washington Ave.
With all the buzz from Robert DeNiro’s new film “Wise Guys” filming locally, I was reminded of Northern Kentucky’s Italian treasure Pompilios.
Pompilios transports guests back in time with Tuscan wallpaper and stained-glass windows that fill the dining room.
I started with an Italian classic cocktail, an Aperol Spritz. It’s my go-to cocktail since visiting Italy. Pompilios cocktail and wine selection feels endless, and each one has a perfect pair with an Italian-inspired dish.
Trying to do right by my Italian grandfather, I ordered the tomato vodka cream penne pasta. The rich, cheesy and zesty sauce made me want to lick the bowl clean.
Pompilios pairs history and authentic meals, with attentive service. When visiting, guests should expect a wait, especially during the holiday season.
For those who want guaranteed seating, reservations are available, or you can order a drink at the bar while waiting for a table.
Prohibition Bourbon Bar at Newberry Bros.: 530 Washington Ave.
While I may not be the biggest fan of bourbon, Northern Kentucky is blessed with the Bourbon Trail, also known as the B-Line, and a series of designated bars that specialize in the spirit for which Kentucky is globally recognized.
The Prohibition Bar’s statement piece, aside from its 1920s aesthetic, is the wall-to-ceiling bourbon bottles displayed behind the bar. They emit an amber glow as the back-lit shelves highlight each bottle.Â
Most people visit here for the bourbon, but those who are unaccustomed to the fiery drink, this Prohibition Bar has a coffee-serving twin, Newberry Coffee, that’s open late.
The Prohibition Bourbon Bar at Newberry Bros. boasts a “look and feel of a small prohibition-era speakeasy, and features the largest collection of bourbon and rye whiskeys found anywhere in the world – thousands of them – including several of the rarest, well-aged whiskeys you’ll find anywhere. The bar also has a great selection of Scotch, Irish & Japanese whiskeys, cocktails, wine and beer.”
They highly recommend reservations, as they book up quickly and often cannot accommodate the flood of walk-ins.Â
Flow Future Coffee and Fleurish Grounds: 846 Monroe St.
Another combo business in Newport is just around the corner on Monroe.
Flow Future Coffee and Fleurish Grounds, which uniquely serves both coffee and kombucha.
Now, I thought that I knew about coffee until I met the owner, Rhys. This man knows coffee better than anyone I’ve ever met. He brews Flow’s coffee by a process of his own design. He explains the science behind his brewing to curious customers, like myself. He says his process extracts more flavor and depth out of coffee than traditional brewing methods, so one can truly taste the unique characteristics of the coffee beans.
Rhys presented me with the creamiest, smoothest coffee with a caramelized finish to it.
Beyond the coffee and the science, Flow offers a warm chemistry and ambiance that elevates the drinking experience.
The front of the house hosts Fleurish Grounds, a plant, vintage and accessory shop all in one. They have a curated selection of vintage apparel, many of which are timeless staple pieces that deserve a home. Fleurish, in my opinion, makes a perfect spot for holiday gift shopping. They sell plants, books, greeting cards, and accessories that make for good gifts beyond the holiday months. Like the back portion of Flow, the atmosphere here is unique and inviting.
Whether you’re looking to visit something new and inventive or something timeless and true, Newport offers a mix of tradition and ingenuity that make for the perfect places to visit.