The Big Three of Cincinnati Flavor

Ask anyone who grew up in Cincinnati to name the city’s flavors, and three brands come up before any others. They’re the ones transplants drive back for, the ones care packages are built around, and the heart of nearly every gift basket we make. Here’s why Skyline, Graeter’s and Montgomery Inn define what Cincinnati tastes like.

Skyline Chili — the taste Cincinnati argues about and everyone misses

Cincinnati-style chili is its own thing — served over spaghetti as a “3-way,” loaded onto coneys, dusted with a mound of shredded cheese. Skyline is the name most associated with it, and it’s the single most-requested item in our care packages. For someone who moved away, a few cans of Skyline (with the oyster crackers, of course) is the fastest trip home there is.

Graeter’s — ice cream that built a 150-year reputation

Graeter’s has made ice cream in Cincinnati since the 1870s using a French Pot process, famous for its giant chocolate chips. While the ice cream itself doesn’t travel, the brand’s chocolates, candy bars and honey-toasted nuts do — which is why Graeter’s confections show up across our baskets, from the Grand Tour to Sweet Pleasures.

Montgomery Inn — the ribs, and the sauce that travels

Montgomery Inn is a Cincinnati institution known for its ribs, but its real ambassador is the barbecue sauce — sweet, tangy, and unmistakable. A bottle of Montgomery Inn BBQ sauce is one of the most giftable things in the city: shelf-stable, instantly recognizable, and a guaranteed hit for anyone who’s ever eaten at the Boathouse.

Why the Big Three anchor a great basket

Individually, each is a great gift. Together, they tell the whole story of Cincinnati flavor — savory, sweet, and smoky. That’s why our most popular baskets are built around all three, then rounded out with LaRosa’s, Izzy’s, Busken and Queen City Coffee. It’s not a random assortment; it’s the city in a basket.

Send the Big Three

Our bestselling Grand Tour includes all three brands and ten more Cincinnati favorites. For a smaller introduction, the Distinctly Cincinnati basket hits the highlights.

Browse all Cincinnati gift baskets or call 513-851-2900.