25 Essential Columbus Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Columbus.
Terita's Pizza
Ohio
Longtime family-operated carryout focusing on pizzas, subs & wings for more than 50 years.
Eddie Merlot's
Ohio
Premium chain serving aged steaks, seafood & a lengthy wine list in plush surroundings.
Brassica in the Short North
Ohio
Locavore pita sandwiches are offered at this bright cafe with a contemporary interior & beer on tap.
New India Restaurant
Columbus, Ohio
Simple Indian restaurant serving classic fare with vegan & gluten-free options plus a lunch buffet.
Haveli Bistro
Columbus, Ohio
Large, upmarket North & South Indian restaurant with a bar stylishly decorated in cream.
Mazah Mediterranean Eatery
Columbus, Ohio
Casual, family-run Mediterranean joint serving classic & vegan dishes plus cocktails & Arak.
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
Columbus, Ohio
Chain restaurant serving steaks, seafood & cocktails in an upscale lodgelike setting.
Scotty's Cafe
Columbus, Ohio
Unpretentious American cafe & deli serving breakfast, brunch & lunch in a strip-mall setting.
Cap City Fine Diner and Bar
Columbus, Ohio
Riffs on American comfort food are prepped in a polished setting with a retro, midcentury look.
JT's Pizza & Pub - Linworth
Columbus, Ohio
Pizza, chicken wings & other Italian & American finger foods are prepared at this easygoing joint.
Señor Antonio's
Columbus, Ohio
Ample portions of Mexican & American favorites served in a colorful setting with cozy booths.
Barrio Burrito Bar
Columbus, Ohio
Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
The Old Mohawk
Columbus, Ohio
Buzzing, longtime American tavern & former speakeasy serving creative sandwiches & turtle soup.
Mi Mexico Restaurant
Columbus, Ohio
This colorfully decorated Mexican eatery boasts an expansive menu of entrees & cocktails.
Bonefish Grill
Columbus, Ohio
Contemporary grill chain offering a seafood-centric menu, plus steaks & cocktails.
First Watch
Columbus, Ohio
Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.
Lupita’s Mexican Cuisine & Bar
Columbus, Ohio
Identifies as Latino-owned. Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great beer selection, Great cocktails.
First Watch
Columbus, Ohio
Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.
Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse
Columbus, Ohio
High-end steakhouse chain serving grilled meats, seafood & cocktails in a sophisticated setting.
First Watch
Columbus, Ohio
Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.
Sunny Street Café
Columbus, Ohio
Casual regional chain serving hearty American fare for breakfast & lunch, with gluten-free options.
B&K Smoke House
Columbus, Ohio
Simple counter-serve joint for barbecue favorites, including standard smoked meats and hearty sides.
Barrel & Boar
Columbus, Ohio
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot.
The Brown Bag Delicatessen
Columbus, Ohio
Simple pit stop for inventive deli sandwiches, plus soups & salads, available for takeout.
Piada Italian Street Food
Columbus, Ohio
Counter-order restaurant serving design-your-own Italian food including wraps, pastas & salads.