Chef Jose Salazar and Skurnik Wines in Downtown Cincinnati

Salazar, a chef-driven restaurant in downtown Cincinnati led by James Beard-nominated Chef Jose Salazar, is hosting a glass pour takeover featuring wines from Northern California. The event includes a selection of wines from winemaker Martha Stoumen and is supported by Skurnik Wines.

The takeover event focuses on a variety of wine styles, offering guests the opportunity to experience white, red, rosé, and orange wines. The programming is designed to highlight Northern California viticulture through specific glass pours and wine flights.

Business Expansion and Relocation

The event takes place at Salazar’s new location at 101 W 5th St in downtown Cincinnati. The restaurant recently relocated to the ground floor of the former Saks Fifth Avenue building, which now serves as the headquarters for Paycor.

The move represents a significant increase in operational capacity for the business. The new space encompasses 7,300 square feet, which is five times the size of the previous location on Republic Street in Over-the-Rhine.

According to a press release, the expanded footprint allows the restaurant to offer expanded seating and three private dining rooms. The venue now has the capacity to host private events and corporate gatherings for up to 50 people, a capability that was not feasible at the former location.

Culinary and Design Strategy

Chef Jose Salazar utilizes a farm-inspired, seasonally-focused menu that emphasizes local farmers and artisans. The culinary program includes in-house production of fresh pastas and a strong focus on seafood, including seafood towers, alongside items such as prime ribeye and fried oyster sliders.

The physical design of the restaurant was developed by the Cincinnati-based firm Indio. The interior features custom Rookwood tiles and art curated by Jayne Menke of Artonomy, with the buildout completed by Furlong Building.

Broader Portfolio Context

Salazar is part of a larger hospitality portfolio managed by Jose and Ann Salazar in the Cincinnati area. Other ventures include:

• Mita’s Restaurant, Bar & Tapas: A Latin-inspired establishment serving tapas and ceviche in downtown Cincinnati.
• Daylily: A deli and bodega offering NYC-inspired favorites and weekly specials.
• Safi: A Moroccan-inspired wine bar and lounge featuring cocktails, beers, and Moroccan small plates.

The current operating hours for Salazar are Monday through Thursday from 5 p.m. To 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. To 10 p.m.