5 Best Places To Eat Near The 2015 MLB All-Star Game

Independence Day has come to a close, and after a weekend of fireworks and flags it's time to celebrate another mainstay in America's national identity: baseball. With July 14th's MLB All-Star Game on the horizon, fans of the national pastime are flocking to Cincinnati and the Great American Ballpark for a week of festivities. But for many baseball fans, expensive and greasy ballpark food can only stretch so thin. Here's a guide to some delicious Cincinnati favorites in close proximity to the week's events.

HUIT Craft BBQ
29 East Court Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
(513) 381-4848
www.huitfoodbar.com

In the spirit of America's pastimes, it would be downright un-American to leave barbecue off of the list. But don't expect to find your traditional smoked eats at HUIT Craft BBQ. Located within 10 minutes of The Great American Ballpark, HUIT offers internationally infused BBQ in a laid back and fun atmosphere. The brunch, lunch and dinner offerings are drizzled with Asian and Europeans accents. Don't forget to try their ramen, packed with fresh veggies and succulent cuts of seasoned meat.

Photo Credit: http://alabamafishbar.com/
Alabama Fish Bar
1601 Race Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
(513) 241-2255
www.alabamafishbar.com

A dedicated following of local customers will tell you that Alabama Fish Bar is the place to go for a quick bite in Cincinnati. However, don't come looking for a menu jam packed with diverse offerings. They do one thing, and they do it right: fish and chips. Ask for spicy or mild, with fries or slaw on the side, but to leave without trying a perfectly fried basket of their daily cut fish is missing the point. Located within 15 minutes of the ballpark and equipped with an efficient, no-funny-business attitude, there's no reason not to make the quick trip to the Alabama Fish Bar.

Photo Credit: http://mazuntetacos.com/
Mazunte
5207 Madison Road
Cincinnati, Ohio 45227
(513) 785-0000
www.mazuntetacos.com

Inspired by a vision of bringing the real feel and flavor of Mexico to Cincinnati, Josh Wamsley opened Mazunte in the Queen City. The taqueria offers a fun and colorful atmosphere to baseball fans looking for south of the border flavors. Mazunte hosts the usual Mexican favorites, prepared with an emphasis on authenticity, unparalleled in this area. Whether you prefer tacos, burritos or enchiladas, you won't want to miss the corn tortillas, hand-pressed before your eyes in the restaurant.

Photo Credit: http://ottosonmain.com/
Otto's Deli
521 Main Street
Covington, Kentucky 41011
(859) 491-6678
www.ottosonmain.com

From humble beginnings, Paul Weckman built Otto's Deli into a staple of the Cincinnati dining landscape. Since it's origins in 2003, the local restaurant has expanded its menu to offer brunch, lunch and dinner. No matter what meal you're looking for, Otto's classy-casual environment provides the perfect momentary escape from the All-Star Game festivities. And serving what is commonly regarded as the best Cuban sandwich in Cincinnati, you can expect something a bit better than your ballpark frank.

Taste Of Belgium
1135 Vine Street
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
(513) 381-4607
www.authenticwaffle.com

The multiple Taste of Belgium locations have been providing Cincinnati with decadent Belgian eats for years. Constantly refreshing classic Belgian recipes and adapting American food with a Belgian twist, the restaurants offer unique European-fusion food to every visitor. What's more, a diverse selection of Belgian beer and cheesy dishes creates the perfect pairing for a long day of ballpark activities. The Belgian waffles won't disappoint, available with fruit for brunch or chicken for dinner.

Jake Hirshland is a lifestyle intern for CBS Local Media.