When Tennis Stars Become Local Foodies: The Unexpected Charm of Cincinnati’s Culinary Scene
There’s something undeniably captivating about watching world-class athletes step off the court and into the role of everyday explorers. Every August, the Cincinnati Open transforms this Midwestern city into a global hub, but what’s truly fascinating is how these tennis stars—accustomed to luxury and limelight—find themselves drawn to the simplest of pleasures: a good meal. Personally, I think this humanizes them in a way that no press conference ever could.
Take Forno Osteria & Bar, for instance. This unassuming Italian restaurant in Montgomery and Hyde Park has become the unofficial clubhouse for tennis players during the tournament. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it’s not just about the food—though, let’s be honest, Italian cuisine is a universal language of comfort. It’s the relationships that form. Owner Cristian Piesoto, by simply introducing himself and sharing his phone number, created a sense of belonging for players like Jannik Sinner and Alex Eala. In my opinion, this speaks to a deeper truth: athletes crave authenticity, especially in a world where every interaction feels transactional.
One detail that I find especially interesting is how Italian players text Piesoto saying the food “tastes just like home.” If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just a compliment—it’s a testament to the power of food as a cultural bridge. What many people don’t realize is that for these players, who spend most of the year on the road, a familiar flavor can be as grounding as a win on the court.
But Forno’s appeal isn’t limited to its menu. The restaurant’s “elevated service” has created an unspoken rule among patrons: whisper, don’t gawk. This raises a deeper question: how do we balance our fascination with celebrities while respecting their humanity? From my perspective, Forno has cracked the code by fostering an environment where stars can dine like locals.
Beyond the restaurant, Cincinnati’s charm lies in its ability to surprise. Coco Gauff’s love for Graeter’s Ice Cream, Ben Shelton’s nostalgia for King’s Island, and Daniil Medvedev’s unexpected fandom for the Reds all paint a picture of a city that’s more than just a tournament stop. What this really suggests is that Cincinnati’s appeal isn’t in its grandeur but in its authenticity. It’s a city that doesn’t try too hard, and that’s precisely why it resonates.
Of course, not every player becomes a local enthusiast. Some, like Aryna Sabalenka and Taylor Fritz, prefer the comfort of their accommodations. But even then, the Lindner Family Tennis Center’s $260 million renovation has turned it into a destination in itself. What’s intriguing here is how the tournament organizers have managed to blend world-class facilities with a hometown vibe.
If you ask me, the real story isn’t just about where these players eat or play—it’s about the connections they forge. Peggy Lewin, a Forno regular, has spent months planning a pizza night with Jasmine Paolini, a player she admires. This sense of community, of wanting to give back, is what makes Cincinnati’s relationship with the tennis world so unique.
As the Cincinnati Open continues to grow, I can’t help but wonder: will other cities take note? In a world where sports events often feel sterile and corporate, Cincinnati’s approach feels refreshingly human. It’s a reminder that, at the end of the day, even the biggest stars just want to feel at home.
The Takeaway?
Cincinnati’s culinary and cultural scene isn’t just a footnote in the tennis world—it’s a character in the story. And as someone who’s watched this tournament evolve, I’m convinced that its greatest legacy won’t be the matches won or lost, but the moments shared over a plate of pasta or a scoop of ice cream. Because, in the end, isn’t that what makes life—and sports—worth celebrating?
