Cincinnati is filled with locally owned, character-filled restaurants that are well-known by their regulars, but likely not as popular outside that circle. If you’ve ever driven past such a place and felt intimidated to go in – don’t be! These hidden gems are run by friendly people, offer a unique atmosphere, and have delicious food to make your dining experience memorable. One such place that you may have driven past (or boated past) and didn’t even know it is Fat Boy’s Dream. You probably missed it because it literally floats on the water and does not sit right on the road, but you’ll want to seek this floating restaurant out because it’s the ultimate hidden gem near Cincinnati.

If you’ve taken a scenic drive down US-52, east of Cincinnati, you’ve probably passed this roadside sign for an oddly named restaurant, Fat Boy’s Dream.

Facebook/Fatboys Dream

Located in Felicity, about 45 minutes from downtown Cincy, Fat Boy’s Dream is actually better viewed from the water because that’s where you’ll find it - floating in the Ohio River.

Facebook/Fatboys Dream When you decide to visit, look for the sign, turn, park, and head down the walkway that leads to this hidden gem that’s tucked away on the banks of the Ohio.

Fat Boy’s Dream is locally owned and popular with boaters who pass by while cruising the river.

Facebook/Fatboys Dream Don’t let the humorous name deter you; it’s just a nod to the laid-back atmosphere and light-hearted vibe of the restaurant.

Fat Boy’s Dream is unique in a lot of ways, and one of them is that you can tie up your boat just a few steps from the restaurant’s door.

Facebook/Fatboys Dream

The eatery is actually perfectly located for those who enjoy a leisurely boat ride or a scenic drive along historic US-52.

Facebook/Fatboys Dream There’s plenty of space on the outside for any type of vehicle you use to get you there, and there is plenty of space at the restaurant itself, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and take in the views.

The menu at Fat Boy’s Dream is what you’d expect from a restaurant with such a name. They offer a surprising amount of choices and truly have something for everyone.

TripAdvisor/Denise K

The burgers are a popular choice at this floating restaurant, as they are big, juicy, and flavorful. Pair one with a side of freshly cut fries, and you’ve got the perfect riverfront meal!

TripAdvisor/Denise K They also offer many other sandwiches, wraps, appetizers, entrees, and incredible homemade desserts. They’re open for breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, so keep that in mind if you’re out and about early on a weekend.

If you enjoy local “dive” restaurants (pun intended), you absolutely must visit this ultimate hidden gem that’s just east of Cincinnati.

Facebook/Fatboys Dream As a floating restaurant, it does have a rock to it (keep that in mind!), but it truly rocks in bringing great food and a beautiful setting to hungry boaters and passersby who are lucky enough to discover Fat Boy’s Dream.

Fat Boy’s Dream gives you plenty of opportunities to stop by and visit! Their hours are:

Monday & Tuesday: 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday & Thursday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Fat Boy’s Dream Floating Restaurant may be a mini-barge on the river, but this hidden gem is filled with tasty food, welcoming people, and a one-of-a-kind setting that all make it well worth your effort to track it down. Have you discovered this “dive” of a restaurant? Did you get there by boat, car, motorcycle, or some other mode of transportation? Let us know in the comments!

Facebook/Fatboys Dream

When you decide to visit, look for the sign, turn, park, and head down the walkway that leads to this hidden gem that’s tucked away on the banks of the Ohio.

Don’t let the humorous name deter you; it’s just a nod to the laid-back atmosphere and light-hearted vibe of the restaurant.

There’s plenty of space on the outside for any type of vehicle you use to get you there, and there is plenty of space at the restaurant itself, making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and take in the views.

TripAdvisor/Denise K

They also offer many other sandwiches, wraps, appetizers, entrees, and incredible homemade desserts. They’re open for breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, so keep that in mind if you’re out and about early on a weekend.

As a floating restaurant, it does have a rock to it (keep that in mind!), but it truly rocks in bringing great food and a beautiful setting to hungry boaters and passersby who are lucky enough to discover Fat Boy’s Dream.

Fat Boy’s Dream gives you plenty of opportunities to stop by and visit! Their hours are:

Monday & Tuesday: 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Wednesday & Thursday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Fat Boy’s Restaurant is located at 3202 US-52, Felicity, OH 45120. For more information, follow along with them on Facebook here.

If you’re looking for tasty destinations in Cincinnati, check out these 9 amazing riverfront restaurants!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.