If you're a Cincinnati native, one clear sign that spring has arrived is the familiar urge — or invitation — to have a picnic. For those living in Hyde Park, a picnic isn't complete without the best local bites from Hyde Park Fine Meats & Seafood to fill your basket before heading to the beautiful scenery of Ault Park. For residents of the area, a picnic is more than just a seasonal tradition — it marks the return of sunsets past 7 p.m. and the long-awaited warmth that spring provides us all. It’s a celebration of two things Cincinnatians do best: savoring good food and embracing the city we all call home.
As you plan your perfect picnic, the first step is deciding what to pack for your al fresco feast. Enter Hyde Park Fine Meats & Seafood. Tucked within Paxton Avenue, this charming yellow-brick store is a neighborhood staple. Despite the closure of many locally owned groceries over the years, Hyde Park Fine Meats & Seafood has endured, standing as a beloved part of the community. While renowned for its quality meats and specialty dishes, it also offers a diverse selection of artisan bread, fresh produce, wines, and grocery essentials — making it a one-stop shop for assembling the ultimate picnic spread.
So, what should you add to your picnic menu? Start with a classic French baguette, the perfect base for creating sandwiches or pairing with spreads. Next, select a variety of cured meats and dry salami to add a rich, savory touch. Complement these with an assortment of cheeses — a picnic staple — choosing from creamy brie, sharp cheddar, or tangy goat cheese. To balance out the savory flavors, add fresh fruits like strawberries, grapes, or blueberries, and toss in some sweet bell peppers for a crisp, colorful bite.
Don’t forget the condiments — Hyde Park Fine Meats & Seafood offers a delightful selection of specialty honey, including lavender, jalapeño, and cinnamon-infused options. These add a fun, unexpected twist to your charcuterie board. Finally, no picnic basket is complete without a beverage. With their thoughtfully curated wine selection, you can pick the perfect bottle to toast to the new season.
Once your basket is packed, grab a blanket, utensils, and your favorite sun hat, and head to Ault Park. As one of southwest Ohio’s premier regional parks, Ault Park provides plenty of picturesque spots for a leisurely picnic. While there are dedicated picnic facilities available, the park also features expansive lawn quads with a variety of scenic views. You can choose a lookout point with a sweeping view of the Ohio River, set up near the iconic pavilion for a classic backdrop, or opt for a more serene experience under the cherry blossom trees or in the Brumm and Rose gardens.
After finding the perfect spot, the best part of the day begins — unpack your basket, settle in, and enjoy a well-earned break from the bustle of daily life. Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, the sound of rustling leaves, and the sweet taste of seasonal produce. It’s more than just a meal outdoors; it’s a way to welcome spring, support local businesses, and create memories in one of Cincinnati's most beautiful and idyllic settings.
So, whether you're planning a romantic date, a fun outing with friends, or a solo retreat, a spring picnic at Ault Park — stocked with the best bites from Hyde Park Fine Meats & Seafood — is the perfect way to embrace all that the season provides. Let the warmer days inspire you to gather, graze, and savor every spring bite.
It’s a celebration of two things Cincinnatians do best: savoring good food and embracing the city we all call home.