We are most certainly not lacking an exciting food scene here in Columbus! It seems like there is something new opening every week. This doesn't mean that something else is closing too, though - we love supporting our long term establishments as well.
Whether you're looking for the newest, poshest place or one that has been there for decades, a hip modern eatery or an old-fashioned diner - you can find it in Columbus. Check out these 15 excellent restaurants in Columbus.
1. Marcella's
This is a fantastic place for your Italian cravings. At Marcella's, you will find all your favorite Italian eats, including pastas, cheese plates, pizzas, meatballs and, of course, an excellent selection of wines. The wall sized windows open up in the summer, so you can enjoy the hustle and bustle of High Street while you dine.
Marcella's is located by 615 N High St., Columbus, OH 43215
2. Mozart's Bakery and Piano Cafe
Mozart's has been a Clintonville destination for over 20 years. Here you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, an incredible variety of decadent European pastries, or afternoon tea (reservation required). All this to the accompaniment of live piano music and jazz on select nights. Mozart's offers a fine "taste of Austria" in everything they do.
Mozart's Bakery and Piano Cafe is located at 4784 N High St., Columbus, OH 43214
3. Barcelona Restaurant and Bar
Barcelona is another one of those restaurants that everyone has heard about. This is your destination for decadent Spanish and European cuisine. If you're after a fragrant skillet of paella, spicy summery Gazpacho, or decadent Iberico pork, you will find it at Barcelona.
Barcelona Restaurant and Bar is located at 263 E Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43206
4. Natalie's Coal Fired Pizza
Natalie's is known as much for it's pizza as for the live music. The restaurant features local and traveling bands almost every night, with genres including jazz, folk, and Americana. Consider getting a reservation; the place tends to fill up with music and pizza enthusiasts!
Natalie's Coal Fired Pizza is located at 5601 N High St., Worthington, OH 43085
5. The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro
For a classic French fine dining experience head to The Refectory. This is the perfect place for that special occasion or romantic dinner. Favorite delicacies include Slow Braised Rabbit, Spiced Duck Breast, and Seafood Coulibiac.
The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro is located at 1092 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43220
6. Harvest Pizzeria
For a yummy artisan pizzeria and a fun vibe, head to one of Harvest's locations. This is a great place to try some new craft beers and pair it with the perfect meal. Their portion sized pizzas are great for one person, or you can get a few different ones and try them all with your friends.
Harvest Pizzeria has several locations:
495 S. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43206
2885 N High St., Columbus, OH 43202
45 N. High St., Dublin, OH 43017
7. Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace
Any hot dog, any way you want it. Dirty Frank's offers a mind-blowing menu or dogs, all paired with wild delicious ingredients. Be sure to check out this downtown staple, and keep in mind they're open late.
Dirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace is located at 248 S 4th St., Columbus, OH 43215
8. Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse
At Rodizio Grill waiters walk around the dining room offering a variety of meats. Instead of ordering one dish, customers are able try the delicacies one or two slices at a time. If you enjoy smoky grilled meats, you will not want to miss this restaurant!
Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse is located at 125 W Nationwide Blvd., Columbus, OH 43215
9. Blind Lady Tavern
This is your destination if you enjoy great food AND whiskey! Located downtown, The Blind Lady Tavern is an excellent place to cap off your evening. Try an old fashioned with a plate of the "Devils" - dates stuffed with blue cheese and wrapped in bacon. Make sure to note the beautiful wood decor.
Blind Lady Tavern is located at 22 E Mound St., Columbus, OH 43215
10. The Crest Gastropub
The Crest offers modern American cuisine with an emphasis on local foods and craft beers. Lamb lollipops, burgers and sandwiches stacked high, and truffle fries are fan favorites. Also, be sure to check out their delicious weekend brunch to start the day off right.
The Crest Gastropub has two locations:
2855 Indianola Avenue, Columbus OH 43201
621 Parsons Avenue, Columbus OH 43206
11. La Chatelaine French Bakery & Bistro
Another long-time favorite, La Chatelaine offers lots of French classics in the form of breakfast, lunch, dinner, a bakery, and a bar. Enjoy a Parisienne omelette for breakfast, dip a fresh baguette into a spicy bowl of tomato basil soup for lunch, or dig into a Lobster Bisque en Croûte for dinner.
La Chatelaine French Bakery & Bistro has three locations:
65 W. Bridge St., Dublin, OH 43017
1550 West Lane Ave., Columbus, OH
43221, 627 High Street Worthington, OH 43085
12. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant
This famous German Village restaurant will give you an authentic taste of Germany - there are sausages galore! The best way to enjoy your meal here is to head straight for the German Autobahn Buffet. Schmidt's does not take reservations and it tends to get a bit crowded, so arrive early you're hungry, give your name to the hostess, and wander the cobblestone streets of German Village while you wait!
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant is located at 240 E Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206
13. Milestone 229
The food at Milestone 229, while delicious, is only part of the restaurant's allure. This place offers beautiful views of downtown Columbus and patio seating right next to Bicentennial Park's fountain display!
Milestone 229 is located at 229 S Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215
14. Jack & Benny's
This is the place for that quick, classic diner-style breakfast. Roll out of bed and head on over for your very own "Gus Buster" portion. Jack and Benny's is a true local favorite. With it's quick service, it's never too long until your next plate of egg and gravy heaven.
Jack & Benny's has several locations:
2563 North High St., Columbus, Ohio 43202
12 East Broad St., Columbus, Ohio 43215
2160 West Case Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43235
15. Press Grill
A small restaurant with a lot of charm. Located right in the middle of the Short North, Press Grill is a charming eatery with a fantastic bar and a huge menu. A martini and a plate of calamari served with tabasco mayo is the way to go at this establishment. Try not to fight over the window seats... but the window seats are pretty awesome if you can snag one.
Press Grill is located at 741 N High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Like I said, Columbus has a restaurant for every taste! What are your favorites? We'd love to hear from you in the comments!
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