Peter Minichino
Lupie’s Café has a cute, cozy building and the service was great, but the food itself was pretty basic. The meatloaf tasted more like plain hamburger with some onions and light seasoning. And the Cincinnati chili… definitely not like any version I’ve had before. Overall, friendly spot, but the food just didn’t hit for us.
… moreHJC
Was so excited to try Lupie’s Cafe. A lot of people told me it was fantastic. The service was stellar. Our server was swift and made sure we had everything we needed and kept coming back and asking us if we were OK. Loved the atmosphere. It reminded me of an old school diner. The food was lackluster. Everyone said it was some of the best chili in the city and I thought otherwise. Wasn’t really warm and the flavor was bland. The corn bread that came with it was meh. The chicken salad sandwich had no flavor and the roll was stale. Sadly, the chef salad and the desserts were my favorite. The blue cheese dressing was unbelievable and the banana pudding and the eclair pudding were some of the best desserts I’ve ever had. I would definitely go back for dessert.
… moreEvan Diamond
Lupie’s Café has been serving up homestyle comfort food for over 36 years, and it’s easy to see why it’s still going strong. From the outside, the building gives off pure dive diner energy with faded paint, a crooked sign, and the kind of place your dad probably grabbed lunch at in the ’90s. Inside, the vibe is no-frills. Crinkled paper menus printed in black and white, booths that have seen better days, and a focus on food, not aesthetics.
They’re known for chili: Texas, Cincinnati, Southern, and Vegetarian…and yes, you can sample all four. The Cincinnati style had that Greek cinnamon-tomato flair (not my favorite). Southern was mellow. Texas brought the heat. I ended up mixing the Texas and Southern to balance things out. That combo got ladled over a massive bed of mac and cheese, then topped with a mountain of shredded cheddar and a scoop of sour cream. I skipped the raw onions and got a slice of cornbread on the side, which was a bit dry for me.
Service was top-tier. Genuinely friendly and tag-teamed by servers who kept things moving. One of them looked like Jack Black, which he admitted he’s heard before.
The menu is affordable and portions are huge. Every table around me looked like Thanksgiving. This might not be a weekly stop for me, but I’m glad I finally made it. Lupie’s is a nostalgic, no-BS staple that’s earned its long-standing reputation.
… moreMary Yuill
This cafe has been around for decades due to the tasty food and eclectic atmosphere. They have delicious burgers, nachos, wonderful daily quiche dishes and awesome chili.
The staff is wonderful to say the least.
… moreFreddi
Excellent homestyle food like you’d eat at granny’s house! We had a chicken casserole and left needing a nap! Everything was flavorful and filling. It looks like a hole-in-the-wall but the food is on point! I’d recommend giving them a try!
… moreRtwo Dtwo
When I see a non 5 star review for this place – you are missing out… you tried the same ol’ thing everyone tries… Go for the home cooked stuff – the broccoli casserole – I miss it so much. I’m glad to be away from Charlotte and it’s amazing food. Sometimes you don’t even realize how good it is until you aren’t there anymore. What I wouldn’t give for a side of broccoli frikkin casserole. If you can find it here – it’s not good. Oh the Quiches – those are to die for – get what I’m telling you to get and you will be back… the chilli mac is meh…. don’t get that.
… moreSavannah Johndro
Warm, cozy spot! Favorite cold weather spot on rotation. Shoutout to cheap bottled PBRs
… moreFortenowski The Myth the Legend
I’ve been a customer here for over 40 years and have always left satisfied!
Cornbread is the best you can ever experience!
Choose spaghetti, or a daily special and you will be happy!
Check the board for sides that are numerous!
Heck grab a cold beer!
This place is a great dining experience!
… moreJonah Smoot
I was greeted by a very friendly staff and given one of the best giant plates of Cincinnati chili ever! There is nothing further to discuss, go get it now if you’re trying to decide! Go go go!
… moreKatie
As a local, Lupie’s is almost as much about nostalgia as anything else. This little place is relaxed, unpretentious, and the food is good. Lunch Lupie’s always lifts my spirits.
… more