Cincinnati is filled with beautiful, historic buildings, and it’s always exciting (and relieving) when one of them is renovated and repurposed, but manages to maintain that old world charm. Once known as St. Paul’s Evangelical Church on Race Street in Over-the-Rhine, Taft’s Ale House has become a favorite dining destination. If you have yet to step through the old church doors, you won’t believe the stunning beauty that is hiding inside.

St. Paul’s Evangelical Church, built in 1850, was once the oldest Protestant parish in Cincinnati.
Facebook/Taft's Ale House
The building had experienced significant damage over the years and was set for demolition just a few short years ago. Thankfully, it was saved and turned into the magnificent Ale House you can visit today.
When you enter the building through the main former church doors, head up the wide staircase and your jaw will very likely drop to the floor.
Facebook/Taft's Ale House
Facebook/Taft's Ale House
Taft's Ale House was lovingly restored to include many of the historic features it once had, but with a warm, modern appeal that is enjoyed by all. The main floor has long wooden tables and the soaring ceiling, along with the eye-catching chandelier, make it one of the most beautiful places to hang out in the city.
The mezzanine level is equally as beautiful and is the perfect place to meet up with friends for a drink.
GoogleMaps/Hugh Geiger

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GoogleMaps/Andrew Lynch
It overlooks the main part of the restaurant and has a unique bar, anchored by a lovely stained glass window.
While visiting Taft's Ale House, make sure you head downstairs and check out Nellie's Taproom.
Facebook/Taft's Ale House
The space is perfectly adorned and provides a cozy spot to get away from the louder crowds upstairs.
And given that it is a brewery and alehouse, you must try one of their draft beers and pair it with a delicious specialty from their menu.
Facebook/Taft's Ale House
Facebook/Taft's Ale House
The staff is happy to help you make a decision, especially if you're unsure how to interpret the variety of beers available. Their menu specialty is tri-tip steak, so make sure to try it on its own, atop a salad, or in a sandwich, like the Alehouse version pictured above.
We are ever so grateful for Taft's Ale House's preservation of a lovely piece of Cincinnati history.
Facebook/Taft's Ale House
We can also thank them for creating an incredible place to enjoy and unwind in a jaw-dropping atmosphere with perfectly matched food and drinks.

Taft’s Ale House pays homage to both the brewery-era of Cincinnati as well as a former president who made quite a name for himself and our city. Have you been inside this beautifully renovated church? What did you think? What other repurposed historic buildings do you enjoy visiting? Let us know in the comments!

Taft’s Ale House is located at 1429 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202. For more information, including their other locations, visit their website here.

And for another restaurant/bar that includes even more Cincinnati history, check out our previous article here.

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