Honoring a Cincinnati Treasure: Marvin Smith Way

There’s a new street in Cincinnati with a name that carries the flavor, spirit, and heart of the community—Marvin Smith Way.

For those who know Marvin, the honor comes as no surprise. The man behind Ollie’s Trolley, Marvin Smith is more than a restaurateur—he’s a host with a steady, smiling presence in the lives of so many in Cincinnati. Now, his contributions have been permanently recognized with a street named in his honor.

“When I heard the news that there would be a street dedicated in his name, I teared up—what a befitting honor to be bestowed upon someone who’s done so much for his community,” said Cori Wolff, Executive Director of the Cincinnati Memorial Hall Society and Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS), at the recent unveiling ceremony held by the City of Cincinnati.

Over the past seven years, Marvin and his team have been an essential partner to our series—not just as caterers, but as collaborators who elevate each event. Every performance night, Marvin brings decades of experience and compassion to the table.

“If you know Marvin, what we advertise as complimentary ‘light’ bites are actually a gourmet buffet dinner, thoughtfully curated for each occasion.”

Ask anyone who’s attended one of the LAS shows, and they’ll tell you: the food is unforgettable—not just for its quality, but for the warmth Marvin brings to each dish. He doesn’t just feed people. He welcomes them, cares for them, and makes every guest feel like they’re family.

“This is because Marvin extends the same pride, creativity, generosity, and hospitality at our events as you'll find at Ollie's Trolley.”

And that’s the magic of Marvin Smith.

“As he will tell you, the key to success is more than hard work and amazing food—but knowing how to treat people right.”

Marvin has made his mark on this city. And now, thanks to Marvin Smith Way, that legacy is carved into the streets of Cincinnati for generations to come.

Thank you, Marvin—for the meals, the memories, and always showing us what true service looks like. This is a recognition that couldn’t be more deserved.

—Kyle Fugate

Receptions Set the Tone for a Wonderful Longworth-Anderson Series Evening

That $40 Longworth-Anderson Series (LAS) concert ticket you just bought gets you a lot more than seeing a fantastic artist at one of Cincinnati’s most intimate concert halls.

That’s because LAS pre-concert receptions at Memorial Hall include regional performers and enough food for a delicious dinner provided by Ollie’s Trolley and N.Y.P.D. Pizza! Want to taste some craft beer? Yes, that’s included too, courtesy of HighGrain Brewing Co.

Eating out in Over-the-Rhine for less than $25 per person is practically impossible, so the notion of terrific entertainment and a meal built into your ticket price is especially appealing.

“We try to match the food to the type of music that night,” says Ollie’s Trolley owner and chef Marvin Smith. “I like being creative; I don’t like cooking the same thing every day.”

The receptions set the tone for a wonderful evening, an “amuse-bouche” for the ears and taste buds before the main event. "The LAS receptions make the concerts feel like an intimate shared experience and really differentiate Memorial Hall from other venues,” said one concert-goer. "I very much appreciated the pre-concert reception. It gave me an opportunity to meet some of the area’s proprietors and sample some delicious considerations.”

Another patron said, “I truly was blown away with everything start to finish. The staff were helpful and warm. The venue was beautiful. The reception was the icing on the cake. I will definitely be back."

Building community, showcasing local vendors and artists, enjoying a small party with your friends, and having the opportunity to meet new friends to share the same experience—all for one low price.

—Scott Seward