Where Ohio's wild bounty meets handcrafted artistry, Wildweed Cincinnati transforms foraged ingredients into extraordinary pasta-driven experiences that celebrate the overlooked treasures of America's heartland. This innovative restaurant, helmed by James Beard Award finalist David Jackman and co-owner Lydia Jackman, has quickly established itself as Cincinnati's most compelling fine dining destination since opening in Over-the-Rhine in 2024.

Born from over 225 pasta pop-ups that captivated Cincinnati's culinary scene beginning in 2018, Wildweed represents the culmination of the Jackmans' vision to honor the "crossroads of time and place." Their philosophy centers on wildcrafted ingredients, seasonal foraging, and handmade pastas that tell stories of Ohio's forests and farms. This dedication earned Wildweed recognition as one of Esquire's "Best New Restaurants in America" and a James Beard Award nomination for David Jackman in the "Best Chef: Great Lakes" category.

The cuisine at Wildweed defies traditional boundaries, blending global inspirations with pristine local ingredients. Signature handmade pastas include delicate cappelletti stuffed with chanterelles, doppio ravioli featuring preserved lemons with wild lobster mushrooms, and robust malfaldine crowned with rabbit ragu. The kitchen's inventive approach extends to dishes like tomato salad with crispy garlic and anchovy sauce, and clams prepared in a Japanese-Italian fusion with dashi and nduja butter broth. Each plate reflects the chefs' commitment to seasonal creativity and whole-animal butchery, sourcing from Ohio's forests and local farms.

Wildweed offers two distinct dining experiences within its thoughtfully designed space. The vibrant 53-seat main dining room pulses with energy, featuring vinyl music and a la carte options perfect for sharing plates among friends. For the ultimate culinary journey, the intimate 12-seat chef's counter presents a multi-course tasting menu exploring seven seasonal ingredients through a dozen expertly crafted dishes. This immersive experience allows diners to witness the kitchen's artistry up close while engaging directly with the chefs.

The beverage program complements the evolving menu with terroir-driven wines and seasonal cocktails that enhance each course's complexity. The service philosophy embraces "fun-dining" – a celebratory approach that balances sophistication with genuine warmth and enthusiasm.

Reservations are recommended for the main dining room and required for the coveted chef's counter experience. Wildweed represents more than exceptional dining; it's a testament to Cincinnati's emerging culinary renaissance, where wild ingredients and passionate craftsmanship create unforgettable gastronomic adventures.