DOWNTOWN. Ko-Sho enhances the downtown ethnic dining scene, serving fresh sushi and sashimi and fantastic sukiyaki. It offers a varied wine list, and sake is readily available. A no-frills decor promises that the focus is entirely on the food.

Local celebs and personalities favor this big city glitz-style restaurant. Certainly a place to see and be seen. The menu showcases great steaks and seafood as well as a fabulous fresh raw bar and sushi bar. A dynamite view of Cincinnati's skyline is also on tap for those who make South Beach their destination of choice. Reservations recommended. Dress is business attire.

MOUNT ADAMS. Hidden away in Mount Adams is this exceptional sushi bar and Thai eatery, where hungry patrons chow down on pad Thai, Massaman chicken, mung bean noodle salad, California rolls and sashimi. Dishes are spiced on a scale of one to ten; be as adventurous as you dare. Take a seat at the sushi bar if you wish to dine exclusively on maki and nigiri; otherwise, combine pieces of sushi with your entree on the delightful patio. Locals claim the wait is worth it, and the restaurant has won several area dining awards in support of its popularity.