Up to date 2/26/24
Hello, it’s me, Nick. Or you possibly can name me Dr. Breakfast. Both method is okay.
Hear, I don’t at all times like taking part in favorites… however we DO have favorites. There are the spots in Columbus we go to steadily, that we introduce to out-of-town guests, that we speak about to anybody who will pay attention. So I’m compiling them into my private information to Columbus!
I’ll replace the information as eating places open and shut, as our tastes change, as new favorites enter the fold. I hope it helps encourage a few of your personal explorations. Get pleasure from!!
Joya’s Cafe
I listed Joya’s below breakfasts, nevertheless it’s a favourite espresso and lunch cease, too. Chef Avishar Barua and his workforce have remodeled this tiny storefront in Outdated Worthington into a pleasant little spot serving Bengali-American breakfast dishes. When you’re visiting for breakfast, attempt the breakfast sandwich Bobby’s method, order a cortado or a Joya’s latte, or get the kati roll and tacky double crunch.
Learn extra: Chef Avishar Barua’s Joya’s Cafe is a Gem in Outdated Worthington
Fox within the Snow
Lauren Culley’s and Jeff Excel’s 4 espresso store/bakeries are beloved for a purpose. They provide nice espresso with stunning, scratch-made pastries. Order some espresso (I like their cappuccinos, Beth likes their New Orleans iced espresso), get a few egg sandwiches, then peruse the shows to select some baked items. Our favorites: the blueberry galette, tomato tart (in season), ham and Swiss croissant, chocolate morning muffin.
Learn extra: A Love Letter to Fox within the Snow’s Italian Village Store
The Lox Bagel Store
Not solely does The Lox make among the greatest bagels on the town (a hybrid NYC/Montreal model), however they put them to make use of in some fairly superb sandwiches. Favorites of ours embody the pastrami sandwich or a lox sandwich with an egg – on their every thing or sea salt & herb bagels.
Learn extra: The Lox Bagel Store
Starliner Diner
Certainly one of our favourite diners within the metropolis, Starliner mixes traditional American dishes with Cuban and Mexican favorites, served in a eating room embellished with murals, clocks, and different kooky decor. Break up an order of Cuban French toast, and don’t miss the chilaquiles with chorizo.
Learn extra: Starliner Diner
The Pancake Home
This family-run diner options two areas, one in Lewis Middle on Powell Street and a tiny one in Westerville on Schrock Street. Their breakfasts are strong, the pancakes prime notch (get the cinnamon roll pancake!), and don’t miss their Venezuelan breakfast dishes.
Learn extra: The Pancake Home in Lewis Middle and The Pancake Home in Westerville
South of Lane
South of Lane is deceiving. It may very well be handed off as a easy little cafe in Higher Arlington, however their breakfasts aren’t any joke. Founder Catherine Vonderahe, who handed away in 2019, had a enjoyable humorousness (I imply, the place’s initials are SoL), and that translated into properly executed and playful breakfasts. Their omelets, waffles, and hash browns are one of the best.
Learn extra: South of Lane
Tommy’s Diner
In a metropolis with some nice diners, Tommy’s stands out. It’s a Columbus establishment, operated by the Pappas household for over 30 years. The decor screams traditional diner, and the breakfasts observe swimsuit. You’ll be able to’t go flawed with the each day specials, though the omelets and the crispy, golden Belgian waffle are my favorites.
Learn extra: Tommy’s Diner: Certainly one of Columbus’ Greatest Diners
Emmett’s Cafe
Emmett’s is styled after Australian espresso retailers that pair knowledgeable espresso service with thoughtfully ready breakfasts. Their authentic cafe on South Excessive Avenue is cute, nevertheless it’s onerous to beat their Outdated North location within the historic Open Air College constructing. Order up an Aussie cap, attempt the hand-held breakfast sandwich, or go greater with their breakfast burrito loaded with tater tots.
Learn extra: Emmett’s Cafe on South Excessive Avenue or Emmett’s Cafe in Outdated North
See additionally Favourite Worldwide Eats under!
Wario’s Beef & Pork
Now with two areas, Wario’s serves up monster East Coast-style sandwiches. Suppose cheesesteaks, roast pork, hen cutlets, chilly cuts. What units them aside is the domestically baked semolina sticks from Matija Breads and the good care to every ingredient. Sure, the pricers are increased, however you possibly can simply get two meals out of 1 sandwich. My private favorites: the chilly reduce and the cheesesteak Wario’s Manner.
Learn extra: Wario’s within the Area District and Wario’s in Clintonville
Cravings Cafe
This little family-run cafe downtown is open for weekday breakfast and lunch, they usually assemble some terrific sandwiches and sides, usually utilizing house-made brioche. I’m keen on their breakfast roll and their downtown smashburger, however look ahead to each day specials.
Learn extra: A Ode to Cravings Cafe’s Sandwiches
Freedom a la Cart
Freedom a la Cart’s downtown cafe can also be a social enterprise, offering employment, coaching, and assets to survivors of human trafficking. On prime of this superb mission is an excellent storefront serving breakfast, lunch, and occasional. Their breakfast burrito and breakfast sandwich are prime notch, however don’t miss the bacon quiche or the Don’t Choose Me sandwich.
Learn extra: Nice Breakfast for an Even Higher Trigger at Freedom a la Cart
CM Rooster
All we’ve got to do breathe the phrases “CM Rooster” and have been destined to eat lunch there – that’s how hooked we’re. This Korean fried hen chain serves up completely craveable meals. We like getting tenders in spicy garlic, soy garlic, curry, and for a great kick, the crimson scorching pepper. Go for lunch when you will get three tenders + fries + cole slaw for under $10!
Learn extra: CM Rooster
Ray Ray’s Hog Pit
A few of Columbus’ greatest barbecue, in our opinion! What began as one truck has grown to 4 plus a brick and mortar in Granville. I’m keen on their Carolina pork and jerk hen sandwiches.
Learn extra: Ray Ray’s New Truck at Aardvark Wine & Beer
Manner Down Yonder New Orleans Most interesting Restaurant
We don’t get right here usually sufficient, however we’ve had some terrific lunches from chef Yonder and her crew. Initially hailing from New Orleans, she serves up among the metropolis’s greatest seafood gumbo, crawfish etouffee, and po’ boys (get the recent honey shrimp!).
Learn extra: Manner Down Yonder Serves A few of Columbus’ Greatest New Orleans Fare
Three Bites Bakery
Isabella Bonello makes among the greatest pastries in Columbus. From her King-Lincoln bakery she produces stunning tarts, croissants, bombolini, muffins, and breads.
Learn extra: Filipino and Italian Flavors at Three Bites Bakery
Kolache Republic
This little bakery sits inside The Each day Growler within the Brewery District. For over a decade they’ve been producing Czech kolaches: fluffy squares of dough with completely different fruit, nut, and cream cheese fillings. Additionally they wrap the dough to make breakfast sandwiches – my private favourite is the chorizo, jalapeno, egg, and cheese sandwich. (Additionally, the weekend earlier than Thanksgiving KR does a Thanksgiving kolache and it’s one in all my favourite issues of the 12 months.)
Learn extra: Kolache Republic
Belle’s Bread
Belle’s Bread has rightfully earned nationwide recognition for its mixture of Japanese and French pastries. Simply seize a tray and cargo up on all their beautiful baked items. Belle’s can also be a part of the Japanese Market, which incorporates Akai Hana and Tensuke Market/Categorical.
Learn extra: Belle’s Bread
Tous Les Jous
Tous Les Jous is a series close to campus that’s comparable in model to Belle’s Bread. They’re primarily based out of Korea and have a enjoyable number of candy and savory pastries.
Learn extra: Go On a Pastry Tour at Tous Les Jours Cafe and Bakery
Little Girls Smooth Serve
I don’t know what Little Girls places of their tender serve, nevertheless it’s merely one of the best. It’s the creamiest and most fantastic tasting tender serve I’ve ever had. My past love was their Aggie sundae, with pet chow, chocolate, peanut butter. However watch for his or her seasonal specialties. I’ve had some superb ones construct round ginger bread, pumpkin, and blueberries.
Learn extra: Sundaes and Cones at Little Girls Smooth Serve’s Westerville Store
Buckeye Donuts
The campus location of Buckeye Donuts will at all times be close to and expensive to my coronary heart. They have been a cease on my breakfast tour for greater than six years. They’re family-run since 1969. They’re open 24/7/365. And so they nonetheless make all their donuts from scratch each day. You’ll be able to’t go flawed with something they put out, however our favorites embody the recent glazed donuts, crimson velvet with cream cheese, chocolate longjohns, custard-filled donuts, and the devils food cake.
Learn extra: The Greatest Approach to Rejoice the Buckeyes is with Buckeye Donuts
DK Diner
An in depth contender for greatest donuts within the metropolis, Grandview’s DK Diner shouldn’t be solely an amazing bakery however an amazing breakfast spot. Go their for the longjohns and apple fritters – and their bitter cream quaint could also be one of the best donut on the town.
Learn extra: What’s Higher at DK Diner: The Breakfast or the Donuts?
Rose Dough Donuts
Rose Dough Donuts works out of 1400 Meals Lab and produces some glorious donuts utilizing brioche dough. Look out for her common seasonal specials.
Learn extra: Get A few of Columbus’ Most Artistic Flavors at Rose Dough Donuts
Hoyo’s Kitchen
Quick informal Somali fare in each North Markets and Bubbly Corridor. My favourite is their safari hen over Somali rice with cabbage and lentils, plus injera bread.
Learn extra: Hoyo’s Kitchen
Los Agavez
The truck that launched Columbus to birria tacos! They nonetheless do among the greatest! However don’t sleep on their al pastor. Discover it parked at Pacemont and Excessive in Clintonville.
Learn extra: Birria Tacos at Los Agavez Taqueria
Addis Restaurant
Our favourite spot for Ethiopian fare (though a detailed second is Lalibela). Very informal. Go together with a bunch and get a combined platter so you possibly can pattern a little bit of every thing.
Learn extra: Addis Restaurant
Huong Vietnamese
Our vote for among the greatest Vietnamese on the town. You’ll be able to’t beat their pho and their banh mi sandwich.
Learn extra: Huong Vietnamese Restaurant
ChiliSpot
Our household loves Chinese language meals, and ChiliSpot is essentially the most requested. We love the spicy Sichuan wontons, dan dan noodles, Chongquin spicy hen, string beans.
Learn extra: ChiliSpot
New India Restaurant
We love Indian meals, too, and New India tops our checklist. The family-run spot is at all times heat and welcoming, and every thing is top-notch. Don’t miss the Afghani naan! It’s smells savory however tastes candy.
Learn extra: Outdated Favorites at New India Restaurant
Arepazo
Arepazo is a long-time favourite for its Latin American fare. Their Venezuelan arepas are the preferred, though I’m a sucker for his or her chilaquiles. Their cilantro sauce can also be standard – I want the spicy model!
Learn extra: Arepazo Tapas Grille & Bar
Major Moon
Together with ChiliSpot, Major Moon is one other go-to for Chinese language. Get the Chengdu chilly noodles, dumplings in chili oil, spicy hen, dan dan noodles.
Learn extra: Major Moon Chinese language Restaurant in Linworth is a Household Favourite
Everest Delicacies
Everest in Outdated Worthington is one other go-to for Indian fare. We love the Everest platter, hen tikka masala, palak paneer, navrattan korma.
Learn extra: Our Go-To Indian Spot is Everest Delicacies
Kirin Noodle Bar
We’ve got a number of nice ramen spots in Columbus, and we’ve been going again to Kirin Noodle Bar a bunch. Nice ramen and sushi!
N.E. Chinese language
N.E. Chinese language makes a speciality of dishes from the Dongbei area of China. We don’t see as many eateries like this in Columbus. Strive the cumin potatoes, inexperienced beans with garlic, scorching and bitter fern root noodles, twice-fried fish.
Learn extra: N. E. Chinese language Restaurant
Bonifacio
Splendidly inventive trendy Filipino fare, with a superb bar program besides. E-book a desk on Sundays and Thursdays between 4-9 p.m. for his or her kamayan nights, communal dinners the place rice, proteins, and veggies are poured out on the desk on banana leaves, so you possibly can eat together with your fingers.
Learn extra: Brunch at Bonifacio
Los Guachos
Los Guachos began as a meals truck and has grown to a number of areas. They’re nonetheless a few of our favourite al pastor within the metropolis, particularly on their gringas. Specialists know to go to on Mondays when al pastor tacos are two-for-one or on Wednesdays when al pastor gringas are $2.
Learn extra: Los Guachos Taqueria, Columbus’ Greatest Tacos Al Pastor
Brioso Espresso
Brioso is my most repeatedly visited espresso store in Columbus. My day job is only a couple blocks down the road from their Lengthy Avenue store and roastery. The workers are pleasant, and I really like their espresso and the Ohio maple latte. When you brew espresso at dwelling, I like to recommend their Espresso Milano mix and Costa Rican Tarrazu.
Learn extra: Brioso Espresso on Lengthy Avenue and Brioso Espresso on Homosexual and Excessive
Roosevelt Coffeehouse
Roosevelt has three areas round central Ohio; my private favourite is their licensed spot inside Olentangy River Brewing Firm in Lewis Middle. I really like how they do honey cinnamon lattes.
Learn extra: Roosevelt on Lengthy Avenue, Roosevelt in Franklinton, Roosevelt in Olentangy River Brewing Firm
Florin Espresso
The family-run Florin is a beautiful little store in Linden that roasts superb espresso. I’m particularly keen on their Ranger mix.
Learn extra: Florin Espresso
Parable Espresso
I’d put Parable downtown as one of many metropolis’s greatest espresso retailers. It’s a wonderful location within the former Lazarus constructing, they usually not solely whip up glorious espresso and pour overs, however their seasonal drinks and their pastry program are at all times a knock-out. Parable additionally opens late on weekends as a cocktail bar, Parable After Darkish.
Learn extra: Parable Espresso
Ramble Espresso
Ramble doesn’t have a storefront, however seems at markets and retailers throughout town. I really like their Mexico Chiapas and Ethiopia Pure Guji.
Learn extra: Ramble Coffee
The Bottle Store
The Bottle Store is a comfy, Bohemian enclave in Victorian Village. We’ve at all times cherished the eclectic vibe and the distinctive cocktails, and I feel it’s solely gotten higher as proprietor Gregory Stokes (who runs Accent Wine downtown) has taken the helm.
Learn extra: The Bottle Shop
Legislation Chicken
Legislation Chicken was incomes accolades earlier than they even opened a pair years in the past. Their cocktail choice is at all times fascinating, the workers knowledgable, and the playful meals menu ranges from elevated bar snacks to enjoyable nights like scorching canine Wednesdays.
Learn extra: Law Bird
Watershed Kitchen & Bar
Watershed has at all times had an excellent cocktail program. Their menus are thoughtfully constructed and fantastically designed round themes like World Tour or Select Your Personal Journey. I really like sampling the newest, however I additionally love their barrel-aged Manhattan.
Learn extra: Watershed Kitchen & Bar Launches New Blissful Hour
The Bar at Echo Spirits
Echo produces a few of Columbus’ extra distinctive spirits, and head bartender Derek Reno creates a dynamic cocktail menu to match. Plus, the facet road house is at all times a cool hangout. (It was the previous dwelling of 4 String Brewing, for many who bear in mind.)
Learn extra: Your New Favourite Watering Gap Ought to Be The Bar at Echo Spirits
The Residents Belief
I really like hanging out at The Residents Belief, within the higher degree of the previous financial institution constructing that additionally homes Veritas. The large financial institution foyer, with plenty of seating and tall ceilings, is a superb backdrop for knowledgeable cocktails.
Learn extra: Veritas and The Residents Belief
Seventh Son
Seventh Son Brewing is without doubt one of the OGs of the brand new wave of Columbus craft beer. What began as a small setup in a storage has blossomed right into a full-scale brewery with meals vehicles, occasions, and two sister breweries. I really like their Italian Village bar with two ranges, the patio with firepits, the taproom with lengthy concrete bar. I can at all times go for his or her IPAs and stouts, just like the Proliferous double IPA and Oubliette stout.
Learn extra: Seventh Son Brewing
Zaftig Brewing
As our neighborhood brewery, Zaftig is close to and expensive to my coronary heart. They go massive with their beers, and I really like the outcomes. I’m keen on their Heavy Hearted Amber, Juicy Lucy IPA, Wee Heavy Scotch ale, and Massive Barleywine. And should you can catch the Ol’ Rugger or ZBS stouts in season, they’re enjoyable to sip.
Learn extra: Zaftig Brewing
Columbus Brewing Firm
CBC has been on a protracted journey over the a long time, from the expansion of its model to successful nationwide awards for its IPAs to a manufacturing house, taproom, and beer corridor. They persistently produce glorious beer. I really like their Columbus IPA and their most well-known choices, Bodhi and Creeper.
Learn extra: Test Out Columbus Brewing Firm’s New Beer Corridor
Nocterra Brewing
Nocterra has constructed itself right into a buzzing group middle in Powell. They transformed an previous prepare depot to a taproom and beer backyard that produces nice beer and occasions, and is dwelling to 2 meals vehicles.
Learn extra: Nocterra Brewing
Wolf’s Ridge Brewing
Wolf’s Ridge does all of it: they’re one of many metropolis’s prime breweries, they’re an award-winning restaurant, they usually have a killer taproom.
Learn extra: brunch at Wolf’s Ridge Brewing
Understory
Understory has all of it: a laid-back lounge, an enormous patio surrounded by timber, inventive meals, nice cocktails, beer from Wolf’s Ridge Brewing – all in an historic constructing.
Learn extra: Why Aren’t We Hanging Out at Understory Bar and Lounge Extra Usually?
Rooh
Rooh within the Brief North presents dynamic trendy Indian fare paired with one of many metropolis’s most attention-grabbing cocktail lists.
Learn extra: Pleasant Trendy Indian + Cocktails at Rooh within the Brief North
El Camino Inn
The newly reopened El Camino Inn downtown, near some less difficult favorites like Little Palace, Soiled Frank’s, and Late Evening Slice, contains a relaxed vibe amongst classic decor – the right backdrop for margaritas, tortas, and tacos.
Learn extra: Tacos, Tortas, and Margaritas in a Classic Setting at El Camino Inn
Soiled Frank’s Scorching Canine Palace
We’ve cherished Soiled Frank’s ever since they opened in 2009. They’ve grown from the cartoon-decorated dive bar downtown to their pop-up and stadium areas throughout town. My favourite canines: the Cowgirl Carmen (which hearkens again to Surly Woman Saloon), the Ohioana, and the Picnic Desk.
Tip Prime Kitchen & Cocktails
It makes me completely happy that Tip Tip retains kicking. The Homosexual Avenue dive with no home windows nonetheless options low-cost cocktails, a strong beer choice, and hearty fare like Ohio nachos, pot roast sandwiches, mac and cheese.
Terita’s Pizza
I’m a sucker for old style Columbus-style pies, and Terita’s is one in all my favorites. I really like the Terita’s Particular, their model of the supreme pizza with house-made sausage.
Learn extra: Columbus-Fashion Pizza at Terita’s Pizza
JT’s Pizza & Pub
JT’s pies at all times characteristic a crispy crust and beneficiant toppings. The extra we attempt them, the extra we fall in love.
Tales on Excessive
Tales on Excessive is the twenty eighth flooring eatery within the new Hilton Tower. You’ll be able to’t beat the views, and the small plates, cocktails, and wines pair properly with them. Go to from 4-6 p.m. for his or her Sundown Hour menu, for particular offers on choose small plates, cocktails, wine, and beer! And don’t miss FYR downstairs.
Learn extra: Cocktails, Sushi, and Small Plates at Columbus’ Highest Rooftop Bar
Speck Italian Eatery
Speck Italian Eatery is chef Josh Dalton’s (proprietor of Veritas and 1808 in Delaware) trendy Italian eatery. Head there for excellent pasta, cocktails, and wine.
Learn extra: Uncover the Trendy Flavors of Italy on the New Speck Italian Eatery in Downtown Columbus
Chapman’s Eat Market
In its brief few years, Chapman’s has acquired a number of nods from the New York Occasions, and rightfully so. However you’ll must work to snag reservations!
Learn extra: Chapman’s Eat Market
Agni
Chef Avishar Barua opened Agni in early 2023. It’s a live-fire eatery within the Brewery District that runs on a tasting menu solely. Avishar’s meals is at all times playful, enjoyable, and stunning.
Learn extra: Chef Avishar Barua Opens His A lot-Anticipated Stay Hearth Restaurant Agni
Veritas
Veritas initially began in Delaware earlier than transferring downtown. They do tasting menus and a la carte eating, and supply one of many extra completed menus within the metropolis.
Learn extra: Veritas and The Residents Belief
Listed here are a number of of the locations we prefer to go within the metropolis!
Motion pictures at Studio 35
Studio 35 in Clintonville is one in all my favourite locations in Columbus. The historic theatre has been renovated into a contemporary film home with two screens, glorious pizza, plenty of beer, and enjoyable group occasions. I’m going yearly to the Dude-a-Thon, a Massive Lebowski screening and beer tasting.
Learn extra: The Studio 35 Trifecta: Pizza, Beer, & Motion pictures
Columbus Crew Video games
With their new stadium and freshly minted MLS Cup win, the Columbus Crew is our favourite native workforce to cheer on.
Climbing one in all our 20 Metro Parks
We’re lucky to have 20 metro parks scattered across the area, with strolling and biking trails, dense forests, riverfronts, and extra actions.
The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
It will take you three days to go to every thing on the award-winning Columbus Zoo.
The Columbus Museum of Artwork
We’re lucky to have an establishment just like the Columbus Museum of Artwork, with nice everlasting collections and world-class particular exhibitions.
Strolling the Scioto Mile
I really like the views from the Scioto Mile, the riverfront park in Columbus. You’ll be able to hit the paths, benefit from the cityscape, cross the bridges, watch trains.
The Nest Theatre
I grew up doing improv in highschool and school, so I really like that we’ve got devoted improv theatres with dozens of reveals and courses.
Hanging Out in Outdated Worthington
I’m in fact keen on our neighborhood. I really like the way it seems to be in the course of the holidays. It’s dwelling to Joya’s, the Worthington Farmers Market (April to October), good dinner spots like Whitney Home and the Worthington Tavern, espresso and pastries at La Chatelaine or Kittie’s.
