Discover Historic Flavor and Hospitality at The Florentine in Germantown, Ohio

GERMANTOWN, Ohio — Nestled in the heart of downtown Germantown, just 20 minutes from Dayton, stands one of Ohio’s oldest dining establishments: The Florentine. Dating back to the early 1800s — 44 years before President Abraham Lincoln took office — this historic restaurant is more than just a place to eat. It’s a full-sensory experience steeped in legacy, community, and culinary craftsmanship.

A Legacy on the Plate

Owner Bryce Kuenning and his team have revitalized the Florentine without stripping away its charm. The exposed brick, original timber beams, and preserved basement supports made of centuries-old tree trunks are physical reminders of its storied past.

"It's not just about running a successful business," Kuenning said. "It's about honoring decades of memories. People have celebrated anniversaries, held wedding rehearsal dinners, and gathered for generations here."

Historic Atmosphere, Modern Menu

Despite its age, the Florentine is anything but outdated. Kuenning and his culinary team are dedicated to refining every dish by 1% daily — from the oil in the fryer to the way an item is breaded. The result? A menu that marries heritage and innovation.

Top dishes include:

• Coconut Fried Shrimp: Inspired by a recent trip to Honduras, this new menu item has quickly become a fan favorite, served with a sweet and spicy chili sauce.

• Roast Beef Hot Shot: A comforting, gravy-smothered classic that’s soon to rotate out as the spring/summer menu launches.

• Baseball-Cut Sirloin: USDA Prime and tender like a filet, this lean steak is a standout — and surprisingly the most affordable cut on the menu.

• French Onion Soup and Crispy Wings: The latter is deep-fried in beef tallow for extra flavor, paired with house-made sauces.

• The Tavern Burger: A double-patty blend of chuck, brisket, and sirloin, topped with bacon, egg, American cheese, and tavern sauce on a brioche bun.

As a special promotion, guests receive a free pretzel appetizer with any entrée purchase throughout the month.

Handcrafted Cocktails & Local Brews

The bar, managed by Noah, keeps patrons coming back with seasonal and signature drinks:

• Cinnamon Maple Old-Fashioned: Once a holiday feature, now a year-round best-seller.

• Blackberry Moscow Mule: Made with muddled blackberries, mint, and a lime wedge.

• Cobra Martini: A rich blend of bourbon cream and local cold brew coffee.

For beer lovers, the house Florentine Pale Ale — brewed by Crooked Handle in nearby Springboro — and the robust Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale are must-tries.

A Local Favorite Worth the Drive

The Florentine continues to be a community staple, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and consistently high standards. Longtime guest Matt summed it up best: “It’s the food, the beer, and the people. Bryce, Sherry, Noah — they’re what make us regulars.”

For those unfamiliar with Germantown, the Florentine offers a perfect excuse to visit a town rich in history, hospitality, and homestyle cooking. Whether you're stopping by for a filet and an old-fashioned or simply soaking up the ambiance, you'll leave with full stomachs and full hearts.