Overview
The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden offers a diverse range of dining options to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. From classic American fare to international flavors, the zoo’s food options are designed to ensure a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
Food Locations and Hours
The Cincinnati Zoo features several food locations, each with its unique offerings and operating hours. Here’s a breakdown of the available options:
Location | Hours |
---|---|
Base Camp Cafe | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Hops | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Outpost Cafe | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
Mai Thai’s Market | 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
Taco Caja | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
Dippin Dots | Various locations and hours |
Savannah Soft Serve | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
Base Camp Cafe
The Base Camp Cafe offers a variety of classic American dishes, including hand-breaded chicken tenders, LaRosa’s pizza, seasonal salads, deli sandwiches, and grilled burgers. The cafe is also certified as the “Greenest Restaurant in America” by the Green Restaurant Association, showcasing the zoo’s commitment to sustainability.
Hops
Hops is a unique dining option that features local craft beers and serves made-to-order flatbreads, nachos, and pastas. The cafe overlooks the Roo Valley and the adventure ropes course, Kanga’ Klimb, providing a scenic backdrop for your meal.
Outpost Cafe
The Outpost Cafe celebrates classic Cincinnati flavors, offering Skyline Chili, Grippo’s Chicken Sandwich, and Avril and Bleh Brats, among other local favorites.
Mai Thai’s Market
Mai Thai’s Market is a one-stop-shop for snacks, beverages, and specialty coffee. It also serves local hand-dipped Graeter’s ice cream and features a Grab and Go section for quick bites.
Taco Caja
Taco Caja offers a taste of Mexican cuisine, serving up soft tacos, nachos, and a fresh Baja Bowl.
Dippin Dots and Savannah Soft Serve
For those with a sweet tooth, the Cincinnati Zoo features several locations offering Dippin Dots ice cream and Savannah Soft Serve.
Ordering and Payment
The Cincinnati Zoo offers several convenient options for ordering and payment:
Online Ordering
Visitors can order ahead of time at the Base Camp Cafe for a seamless pickup experience.
Zoo Bucks
The zoo’s own currency, Zoo Bucks, provides a hassle-free way to pay for snacks, meals, and gifts during your visit.
Sustainability Initiatives
The Cincinnati Zoo is committed to sustainability, and this commitment is reflected in its food offerings:
Green Restaurant Certification
Both the Hops and Base Camp Cafe locations are certified by the Green Restaurant Association, recognizing their eco-friendly practices.
Plastic Bag Free
The zoo encourages visitors to bring reusable bags or purchase a Zoo-themed tote for $2.99, reducing the use of single-use plastic bags.
Tips and Recommendations
To make the most of your Cincinnati Zoo food experience, consider the following tips:
- Plan Ahead: Check the zoo’s website for food location hours and plan your meals accordingly.
- Bring Your Own Food: If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, consider bringing your own food.
- Support Local: The zoo features local breweries and food options, supporting the local community.
References
- Cincinnati Zoo. (n.d.). Plan Your Adventure. Retrieved from https://cincinnatizoo.org/plan-your-adventure/
- Cincinnati Zoo Eats. (n.d.). Base Camp Cafe. Retrieved from https://www.cincinnatizooeats.com/
- Cincinnati Zoo. (n.d.). Dining and Shopping. Retrieved from https://map.cincinnatizoo.org/place-types/93-dining-and-shopping
- TripAdvisor. (n.d.). Nice zoo, but bring your own food – Review of Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g60993-d105691-r33974279-Cincinnati_Zoo_Botanical_Garden-Cincinnati_Ohio.html
- Cincinnati Zoo. (n.d.). Dining & Shopping. Retrieved from https://cincinnatizoo.org/plan-your-adventure/dining-shopping/.