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Barstool Sports founder and “One Bite” pizza critic Dave Portnoy is turning his attention to Cincinnati. He is asking fans to recommend the city’s top pizzerias as he prepares to do his signature one‑bite reviews.
Portnoy announced on November 17 through X (formerly Twitter), writing: “Cincinnati is a rare city I’ve never done a pizza review in. What are top 5 must-hit spots?”
His post sparked a wave of replies from local Cincinnati pizza fans. Many suggested favorites such as Dewey’s, Saint Francis Apizza, and Taglio.
His timing aligns with a trip to Cincinnati for the Big Noon Kickoff, a FOX Sports pregame show tied to the University of Cincinnati, where he is scheduled to appear.
Cincinnati is a rare city I’ve never done a pizza review in. What are top 5 must hit spots. https://t.co/RVjMNRfW8h
— Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) November 17, 2025
Spotlight local pies
The visit gives Portnoy a perfect opportunity to sample several local pies. He could potentially spotlight them on his widely followed One Bite Pizza Review series.
Portnoy’s “One Bite” reviews are known for their simplicity and directness: he takes one bite of a pizza, then immediately rates it on a 0–10 scale.
This format has made his YouTube channel and social media posts especially influential for local pizzerias hoping to get his seal of approval.
Previous reviews
For example, Portnoy previously reviewed Old Scratch Pizza & Beer in Dayton. He gave it a 7.7 out of 10 and praised its Midwest-style, crispy crust.
Another familiar Greater Cincinnati name is Strong’s Brick Oven Pizzeria, which Portnoy reviewed in the past.
Despite his lukewarm rating, the stop raised Strong’s profile among his fans, many of whom consider it a local favorite.
Portnoy’s social media callout for recommendations doesn’t just serve his own content. It also energizes the local pizza community.
Fans have bombarded him with suggestions for mom‑and‑pop shops, neighborhood dives, and hidden gems they believe deserve national recognition.
As Portnoy’s Cincinnati trip unfolds, pizzeria owners and pizza lovers alike will be watching closely. A positive review from him can translate into a surge of attention. Meanwhile, a lower score might fuel debate and discussion — all part of the unpredictable allure of the One Bite series.
Why Dave Portnoy’s pizza hunt is big news for Cincinnati
When Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy publicly called on Cincinnatians to name their top five “must-hit” pizzerias, it wasn’t just a food lover’s whim. It was a moment loaded with cultural, economic, and social significance for the city.
1. National spotlight on local pizza scene
Portnoy’s “One Bite” pizza reviews reach a huge audience. As WLWT reports, his call for suggestions comes just before he appears in town for the Big Noon Kickoff at the University of Cincinnati.
If he follows through, his review could shine a national spotlight on local pizzerias, which helps elevate Cincinnati’s food scene.
2. A boost for small businesses
For smaller or neighborhood pizza shops, a positive review from Portnoy can mean major traction. His “one bite” formula is simple but influential: he takes a bite, then scores on a 0–10 scale.
In other cities, his reviews have translated into real business. Media outlets have documented how pizzerias get a surge of attention or new customers after being featured.
3. Validating local pizza culture
Cincinnati has a rich and diverse pizza landscape, from classic tavern-style joints to newer gourmet spots. When Portnoy asks for “must-hit” spots, it gives locals a chance to highlight places they feel represent the city’s authentic pizza identity.
That matters because food critics don’t just judge the food; they help define what good pizza in Cincinnati actually means on a broader stage.
4. Economic and tourism impact
Portnoy’s presence for the Big Noon Kickoff event already brings attention to Cincinnati.
If he ties in his pizza tour, it’s good publicity for the city. Not just for foodies, but also for visitors and the local economy.
Restaurants featured in his reviews could see an uptick in out-of-town visitors. Especially young Barstool fans who might travel just to try a place he rated. It’s a form of influencer-driven tourism.
5. Pizza as community conversation
His post sparked a flood of replies naming favorites like Dewey’s, Saint Francis Apizza, and Taglio.
That kind of public engagement—people defending their favorite slice spots, comparing crust styles, or arguing over whether a local pizzeria really deserves Portnoy’s approval—is more than food talk. It fosters community pride and brings attention to local culinary heritage.
6. Long-term brand effect
For Portnoy, Cincinnati represents a missing piece. It is, as he himself said, “Cincinnati is a rare city I’ve never done a pizza review in.” Adding the Queen City to his list could deepen his brand’s connection to Midwest pizza culture. It may cement Cincinnati as part of his national pizza map. For local pizzerias, that could mean repeated visits, more content, and possibly even long-term partnerships.
7. Risk and reward
There’s also risk: a harsh Portnoy review could sting some local businesses. But even that controversy can drive buzz, sparking debates and drawing in curious diners.
Given how critical his reviews can be, pizzerias have a chance to earn recognition — and potentially transform their business through Portnoy’s influence.
Portnoy coming to Cincinnati in search of the city’s best pizza isn’t just a food story; it’s a big deal for local culture, small business, and city identity.
If he does review a handful of pizzerias here, the ripple effects could be felt across the restaurant community, in local media, and even in how Cincinnati’s pizza reputation takes shape nationally.
