Taft's Ale House, Ohio River Valley Travel Guide

Name: Taft's Ale House
Address: 1429 Race St, Cincinnati, 45202, US
Telephone: +1513-334-1393
Price range: 2
Rating: 4.5

4.5 (1413)

Sacred church reborn as Cincinnati's premier brewpub: exceptional house-brewed beers, tri-tip feasts, and historic vibes in lively Over-the-Rhine.

Taft's Ale House occupies a stunning former church in Cincinnati's vibrant Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, transformed into a brewpub honoring President William Howard Taft. Brew your own adventure with house-crafted beers like Gavel Banger IPA and Nellie's Key Lime, paired with hearty dishes such as tri-tip steaks, smoked wings, loaded tots, and New Haven-style pizzas. The multi-level space features soaring ceilings, fermentation tanks resembling pipe organs, communal tables, and a lively atmosphere perfect for craft beer lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Taft's Ale House

1429 Race St, Cincinnati, Over-The-Rhine, Ohio, 45202, US
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Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Taft's Ale House.

Opt for beer flights to sample seasonals like Nellie's Key Lime or Maverick Porter alongside tri-tip appetizers.
Visit the upper levels for dining with views of fermentation tanks; basement for intimate pub feel.
Arrive early on weekends or game days to beat wait times; communal tables suit groups.
Pair the Alehouse sandwich with sweet potato fries for a hearty, flavorful meal.

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Explore Taft's Ale House on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Taft's Ale House, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From downtown Cincinnati, 15-20 min walk through OTR; free, scenic past street art and markets.
Public Transit

Metro bus #17 or #49 to Race St, 5 min walk; $2 fare, frequent service.
Rideshare

Uber/Lyft from CVG Airport 20 min, $25-35; from downtown $8-12, easy drop-off.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Food Options
Drink Options
Seating Areas

Discover more about Taft's Ale House

Historic Transformation

Taft's Ale House breathes new life into a magnificent 19th-century church in Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhine district, a neighborhood famed for its German heritage and revitalized energy. The space pays homage to William Howard Taft, Cincinnati's own 27th U.S. President and avid beer enthusiast, blending sacred architecture with modern brewing. Towering stainless steel fermentation tanks rise like a pipe organ behind the bar, while original murals and high vaulted ceilings create an awe-inspiring backdrop. Multi-level seating spans three floors: a ground-level beer hall with long communal tables, an open upper dining area, and a cozy basement pub, each offering distinct vibes from bustling to intimate.

Exceptional Brews

As an award-winning brewpub, Taft's crafts a rotating lineup of fresh beers using time-honored techniques. Year-round favorites include Gavel Banger American IPA with bold hops, crisp 27 Pilsner, and refreshing Nellie's Key Lime Caribbean Ale. Seasonals like Bathtub Bock, Hazy Gavel IPA, and Frisch's Pumpkin Pie Ale showcase creativity and balance. Flights and beer cocktails allow exploration, with darker varieties like Maverick Chocolate Porter earning praise for their rich flavors. Low-IBU options cater to smoother tastes, making it accessible for all palates.

Hearty Cuisine

The menu emphasizes rib-sticking comfort food with a craft twist. Signature tri-tip steak stars in sandwiches like the Alehouse with alehouse onions and blue cheese, or the Border with pepper jack and chipotle sauce. Appetizers shine with hickory-smoked wings, Gavel Banger beer cheese pretzels, and loaded chips topped with pulled pork. Sides include crispy tater tots, sweet potato fries, and cornbread. Brunch offers fluffy quiche with tri-tip or spinach, breakfast burritos, and spicy Bloody Marys. New Haven-style apizza, available nearby at sister spots, adds thin-crust perfection with charred edges and fresh toppings.

Lively Atmosphere

Expect a fun, energetic scene especially on weekends and FC Cincinnati game days, with friendly service navigating the crowds. The labyrinthine layout accommodates groups, dates, and solo visitors, fostering a communal spirit. Reasonable pint prices around $6 make lingering affordable. Whether savoring a porter by the bar or sharing platters at communal tables, the blend of history, hops, and hospitality defines the Taft's experience.

Over-the-Rhine Context

Nestled at 1429 Race Street, Taft's anchors OTR's brewery row amid trendy shops, street art, and Findlay Market. Walkable from downtown attractions, it's ideal for pre- or post-game hangs, blending local pride with national acclaim. Moderate pricing and high ratings reflect its status as a Cincinnati must-visit.