Our Story
Sleepy Bee is a breakfast and brunch restaurant rooted in Cincinnati, inspired by a love of local food and the small things that make a big impact.
Our story began over 30 years ago, when founder Sandy Gross started raising her family and became passionate about sourcing food close to home. Wherever she traveled, she sought out farm-to-table restaurants and always returned wishing Cincinnati had one of its own.
Evenings at home often ended in her garden, where bees gently tucked beneath leaves captured her attention. Their quiet strength, collaborative spirit, and essential role in pollination became a powerful symbol and the inspiration for Sleepy Bee.
In 2013, Sandy partnered with renowned Chef Frances Kroner to bring that vision to life. Together, they built a restaurant that nourishes guests while benefiting the environment and the community. By sourcing from local farms, cooking with seasonal ingredients, and designing with care, Sleepy Bee celebrates sustainability, hospitality, creativity, and community.
Today, Sleepy Bee remains locally owned and proudly rooted in Cincinnati, where families and friends gather daily to enjoy thoughtful food, inspired design, and a shared sense of purpose.
The Farmers and Producers Behind Sleepy Bee
Every dish begins with fresh, local, and sustainably sourced ingredients. We’re proud to partner with farmers and producers in our region who share our values and our care.
Shetler Farms (OH)
The Egg Shack (KY)
In July 2020, Sleepy Bee joined the Cincinnati 2030 District, committing to reduced environmental impact and a more sustainable city.
In August 2020, Sleepy Bee became a proud member of 513 Green—a sustainability certification recognizing businesses that operate with environmental responsibility.
In March 2023, Sleepy Bee was honored to become the first B Corp restaurant in Ohio! B Corporations are for-profit companies dedicated to using business as a force for good. B Corps are legally required to consider the impact of their decision on all stakeholders: customers, workers, communities, vendors, and the environment.