Northern Kentucky’s Dining Scene: 2025 Openings and Closures
As Northern Kentucky’s restaurant landscape continues to evolve, 2025 has proven to be a transitional year. One of the most consequential local events of 2024 was the closure of the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge, which led to the shutdown of several restaurants at Newport on the Levee and in the surrounding river city communities. This shift has created a ripple effect, impacting both established eateries and new ventures alike.
To help you navigate this dynamic culinary landscape, here’s a comprehensive guide to the openings and closures in Northern Kentucky for 2025.
Closings
Amador Cuban (Newport on the Levee)
Amador Cuban, a Miami-style Cuban restaurant, closed its doors in January 2025. The Pensacola Hospitality Group, which operated the restaurant, cited the closure of the Daniel Carter Bridge as a significant factor in their decision, leading to financial strain. Opened in 2023, Amador Cuban was known for its classic dishes like the Cubano sandwich and Ropa Vieja.
Bridgeview Food Hall (Newport on the Levee)
Also owned by Pensacola Hospitality Group, Bridgeview Food Hall was a communal dining space that featured a variety of vendors, including Los Tacos Hermanos and Club Coop. It opened in 2023 but succumbed to the same financial pressures that affected Amador Cuban, ultimately closing its doors in early 2025.
Opal Rooftop (Covington)
Opal Rooftop was a shining star in Covington’s fine dining scene, offering stunning views of the Cincinnati skyline. However, co-owners Bill and Morgan Whitlow announced its closure in January 2025, citing financial issues and operational barriers. The restaurant was celebrated for its wood-fired grill and elegant ambiance.
Rich’s Proper and Hangry Omar’s Slider Shack (Covington)
Both Rich’s Proper and Hangry Omar’s, co-owned by the Whitlows, closed in late December 2024. Rich’s Proper was known for its Creole-inspired cuisine, while Hangry Omar’s catered to casual diners in the Covington Yard food court. The closures were attributed to the same financial challenges faced by Opal.
The Brickery Café & Play (Newport on the Levee)
A unique Lego-themed café, The Brickery Café & Play, shut down in March 2025. Opened in 2023, it provided a creative retreat for families and LEGO enthusiasts. Owner Daniel Johnson acknowledged that the closure of the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge significantly impacted the business.
Hooters (Newport)
The floating Newport Hooters, along with the Beer Sellar, closed in June 2025 as part of a nationwide shutdown of around 30 locations. The barge housing the restaurant was eventually taken down the river, leading to a wave of memes and social media buzz.
The Metropolitan Club (Covington)
The Metropolitan Club, a social club and event space that had been a staple in Covington since 1991, announced its permanent closure in July 2025. The club was known for providing a gathering space for professionals and community leaders.
Openings
Mi Cozumel (Newport on the Levee)
Mi Cozumel made its debut on July 1, 2025, in the former Amador Cuban space. This Cincinnati-based Mexican restaurant franchise is celebrated for its lively atmosphere, Margarita Tower, and tableside guacamole. With over 40 margarita flavors, it promises a vibrant dining experience.
7 Brew (Newport)
In April 2025, 7 Brew opened its first Northern Kentucky location in Newport. This drive-thru coffee chain offers an extensive menu, including espresso drinks, flavored energy drinks, and milkshakes, catering to coffee lovers on the go.
Noche (Covington)
Noche, opened in July 2025, is the brainchild of the creators of Alfio’s Buon Cibo. Located in the former Rich’s Proper space, Noche offers a fusion of Italian and Argentine cuisine, featuring hand-cut steaks, fresh pasta, and premium wines.
The Bodega at Roebling (Covington)
Opened in March 2025, The Bodega at Roebling serves small bites, New York-style bagels, and coffee. By day, it operates as a café, and by night, it transforms into a speakeasy, offering a unique dining experience in Covington’s Roebling Point neighborhood.
Spear Ridge Cafe (Independence)
Spear Ridge Cafe opened in July 2025, honoring the history of Independence. This comfort-food café offers favorites like smashburgers and catfish po’ boys, alongside a general store that serves coffee and small bites.
Wayfarer Tavern (Dayton)
Wayfarer Tavern, located in the historic Burton Building, opened in late January 2025. Specializing in bar-style pizzas, it adds a new flavor to Dayton’s dining scene.
McAlister’s Deli (Union)
In September 2025, McAlister’s Deli opened a new location in Union, offering a fast-casual dining experience with a diverse menu of sandwiches, salads, and soups.
Jersey Mike’s (Independence)
Jersey Mike’s opened on August 20, 2025, in Independence, providing a variety of sub sandwiches with convenient ordering options through their app.
Crumbl Cookies (Florence)
Crumbl Cookies officially opened in Florence in August 2025, quickly drawing crowds with its popular cookie offerings. This location is part of a rapidly growing franchise known for its rotating menu of flavors.
Schlotzsky’s (Union)
Schlotzsky’s opened in Union in July 2025, offering a menu that includes sandwiches, pizzas, and salads, with options for dine-in and carryout.
Conclusion
The dining scene in Northern Kentucky is in a state of flux, with both closures and new openings shaping the culinary landscape. While the loss of beloved establishments is felt deeply, the arrival of new restaurants brings fresh flavors and experiences to the region. As 2025 unfolds, food lovers can look forward to exploring the evolving tastes and trends that Northern Kentucky has to offer.