Carmelo’s Restaurant

Since 1856, Odd Fellows Hall has been at the center of Covington’s political, civil, and social life. Originally a fraternity meeting hall, it provided a base where local leader Amos Shinkle orchestrated the construction of the Cincinnati-Covington suspension bridge. It was also the site of a welcome reception for Union General Ulysses S. Grant after the Civil War. In later years, it housed a vaudeville venue, a Depression-era boxing arena, a Prohibition nightclub, and a 1950s roller skating rink!

Today, it’s home to Carmelo’s Restaurant, bringing a taste of Italy to modern-day Covington. Crumbling plaster walls reveal original 19th-century brick, while soft lighting gives a cozy glow to three intimate dining rooms. The Garlic Soup is a must—a creamy potato base with garlic five ways. Then dig into 101-Layer Lasagna with wide noodles, vegetable ragu, bechamel, and tomato sauce. Don’t skip the house-made tiramisu…it’s a Sicilian family recipe.