Places like the Precinct, Morton's , Maury's Tiny Cove in Cheviot and Hyde Park Chop House have excellent service and great menus. These places usually require reservations, though, so don't show up and expect a table. It's not Steak n' Shake, for heaven's sake. Find these things out first. Joe could take his date to one of the trendy Rookwood Commons joints, like P.F. Chang's.
Chains usually have very fair prices, large food portions and a comfortable atmosphere.
Chain restaurants like Mountain Jack's or Bravo's are impressive, too. Factor in the wait, too. You don't want to get to know your date in the foyer of a Hooter's, so plan accordingly, call ahead, or pick someplace else if the wait is longer than 10 or 15 minutes. Cincinnati has plenty to choose from in the ethnic genre, too. Hit Teak Thai in Mt. Adams, maybe for a little pre-feast before a night out at the bars or theater at Playhouse in the Park.