BlackFinn Cincy grand opening to highlight major changes

When BlackFinn Cincy holds it grand opening on March 14, restaurant patrons can expect to see major changes to the former McFadden's space on Seventh Street downtown.

"You wouldn't recognize it walking in," says restaurant manager Kirk Shaffer.  "It's much, much more polished than McFadden's."

A new bar and brand new decor has been added to the restaurant, and a club lounge, Suite, now occupies the rear of the space.

"It's really an entertainment venue like Cincinnati's never seen before," says Shaffer.

Shaffer describes BlackFinn Cincy as very inviting, upscale casual dining.

"We have a very nice menu with what we call 'high-quality pub food'," he says.  "It's mostly American fare, with some Irish influence.  There's an attention to detail, and we take great pride in the menu."

Shaffer says that downtown is a great location for any restaurant.

"There's lots of foot traffic, especially in the summertime with a lot going on," he says.  "We also have a lot of 9-to-5 workers, and we schedule a lot of private events.  And developing relationships with people downtown is always nice."

BlackFinn Restaurant & Saloon, which was established in New York City in 1994, has locations in 12 U.S. cities.

The downtown location will employ approximately 130.

Writer: Kevin LeMaster
Source: Kirk Shaffer, BlackFinn Cincy restaurant manager

Photography by Scott Beseler