22 Fun & Unique Restaurants in Columbus, OH

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Columbus might not be the first place that comes to mind for foodies, but after visiting three times, I can tell you it’s a hidden gem worth exploring. This city’s dining scene blends Midwest comfort with creative, modern twists, making it a playground for anyone who loves to eat. From rooftop bars in the Short North to eclectic cafes in German Village, Columbus has a lot to offer.

You’ll find incredible craft beer, farm-to-table spots that highlight local produce, and some of the best brunch places around. The food scene here is all about mixing the familiar with the unexpected—whether it’s fusion dishes, global flavors, or classic Ohio comfort food done right. Having explored over 65 countries, I can confidently say Columbus stands out as a unique and underrated foodie destination. Here are 22 of the most fun and unique restaurants in the city that you’ve got to check out!

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend exploring Columbus aboard the Trolley Pub. This mobile pub brings you to the best spots in the city, including the Short North and Downtown areas. You’ll get to enjoy some drinks in the process!

The Most Unique Restaurants in Columbus, Ohio

Are you ready to explore the most unique restaurants in Columbus? The beauty of Ohio is definitely evident in its food scene. There’s a wide range of places to eat in Columbus to suit all tastes and budgets.

Are you looking for a literary escape paired with a delightful coffee? Or would you rather dive into authentic German dishes in a historic setting? Whatever your palate desires, Columbus can accommodate your needs. The hardest part is finding cheap flights to and from Columbus, but once you’re here, these food recommendations have got you covered. Here’s your in-depth guide to the most unique restaurants in Columbus.

1. RH Rooftop Restaurant at RH Columbus

• Location: Easton Town Center, 4120 Worth Ave
• Price range: Upscale ($$$)
• Cuisine Style: Contemporary American/Wine Bar
• Standout Features: Glass atrium dining room, trickling fountains, trellised trees
• Perfect For: Special occasions, business dinners, Instagram-worthy experiences

RH Rooftop Restaurant transforms dining into theater with its breathtaking glass-and-steel atrium setting on the third floor of the massive RH design gallery. Originally developed by Chicago chef Brendan Sodikoff, the menu focuses on well-executed steakhouse fare and wine bar bites, with dishes that prioritize quality over innovation. 

The sourdough-based avocado toast with balsamic sweetness stands out at brunch, while dinner features excellent cheese and charcuterie boards alongside perfectly seasoned steaks. The insider tip: if there’s bread involved, order it. The space feels like dining in a luxurious conservatory, complete with chandeliers and an infinity mirror effect. While expensive, the experience justifies the price for those seeking an elegant escape from typical Columbus dining.

2. Katalina’s Café

• 📍 Location: Harrison West
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $25 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Latin-American / American / Brunch
• 🔥 Standout Features: Famous Pancake Balls™, quirky stone house, vibrant patio, spicy bacon.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Brunch fanatics, Instagram foodies, and pancake lovers.

This isn’t just a cafe; it’s a tiny stone house of brunch magic. Katalina’s is famous for one thing: its Pancake Balls™. You can smell the sweet batter and roasting coffee from down the street. The place is small but has a huge, fantastic patio that’s always buzzing. Yes, you’ll probably have to wait, but it’s a happy, energetic line.

Forget regular pancakes forever. You are here for the Nutella-filled Pancake Balls™, fluffy little spheres of joy that are totally addictive. For a savory kick, get the Mazatlan pork and egg sandwich with a side of their signature spicy bacon. It’s a flavor-packed menu that makes this spot a true Columbus legend.

3. The Refectory Restaurant

• Location: Northwest Columbus, 1092 Bethel Road
• Price range: Fine dining ($$$$)
• Cuisine Style: Classic French/Contemporary American
• Standout Features: 1850s church setting, world-class wine cellar, tableside Dover sole
• Perfect For: Anniversary dinners, wine enthusiasts, special celebrations

The Refectory Restaurant has been Columbus’s temple of fine dining since the 1980s, housed in a stunning converted 1850s church with exposed wooden beams and candlelit ambiance. Executive Chef Richard Blondin, a Lyon native trained by culinary titans Pierre Orsi and Paul Bocuse, has masterfully guided the kitchen for over 30 years. 

The nightly-changing menu showcases dishes like marbled escargot and herb-crusted filet mignon, while the famous Dover sole preparation performed tableside remains a signature experience. The world-class wine cellar with several hundred selections has brought the restaurant top recognition from Wine Spectator for decades. Winter diners should request the cozy bistro area by the original 1850s fireplace. The five-course tasting menu offers the ultimate splurge, though custom tastings can be crafted for any preference.

4. The Top Steak House

• 📍 Location: Bexley
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $100 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic Steakhouse / American / Supper Club
• 🔥 Standout Features: 1950s time capsule, live piano music, charcoal-grilled steaks, classic cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Mad Men fans, romantic date nights, and steak purists.

This isn’t a restaurant; it’s a time machine to a 1955 supper club. The Top Steak House is the real deal, with dark wood, deep red booths, and the constant, cool sound of a live piano player. The air smells like charcoal and history. It’s the kind of spot where you want to order a martini and settle in for the night.

The menu is wonderfully straightforward and classic. The steaks are the stars, broiled over live charcoal for that perfect flavor. You can’t go wrong with a classic New York strip or a perfectly tender filet mignon. For a true throwback, start with the iceberg wedge salad with their amazing house dressing.

5. The Guild House

• Location: Short North, 624 N High St
• Price range: Upscale casual ($$$)
• Cuisine Style: Contemporary American/Globally Inspired
• Standout Features: Hundreds of art pieces, seasonal menus, all-day dining
• Perfect For: Business lunches, date nights, art lovers

The Guild House embodies the artisan philosophy with its team of “guild” chefs creating seasonal, globally-inspired dishes in a space adorned with hundreds of unique art pieces and reclaimed wood. Executive Chef Sonny Pache, formerly Ocean Prime’s Executive Chef of the Year, showcases his culinary skills in this unique environment. The menu changes frequently but consistently delivers dishes like perfectly prepared salmon with creative vegetable accompaniments and standout sweet potato rolls that guests rave about. 

This restaurant proudly sources locally grown ingredients whenever possible, with chefs collaborating on regionally and globally inspired offerings. The cronut dessert has achieved cult status among regulars. Service shines with servers who remember personal preferences and dietary restrictions from visit to visit. The versatile space works equally well for power breakfasts, leisurely brunches, or sophisticated dinners.

6. Mozart’s Bakery & Piano Cafe

• 📍 Location: Clintonville
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $35 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: European Cafe / Austrian Pastry / Afternoon Tea
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic European pastries, live classical piano, elegant tea room, beautiful desserts.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Afternoon tea dates, classical music fans, and pastry lovers.

Step inside Mozart’s Bakery & Piano Cafe and you’re instantly transported to a grand cafe in Vienna. The air is thick with the incredible smell of butter and sugar, and the space is filled with the sound of a live pianist playing classical music. The gleaming pastry case is a work of art, a dazzling display of cakes and tortes.

You absolutely must try a slice of their famous, decadent Sachertorte or a flaky, warm apple strudel. It’s a pastry lover’s dream come true. For a savory meal, their traditional Wiener Schnitzel is fantastic, and their quiche is always a perfect lunch. It’s an elegant, charming escape from the everyday.

7. Agni

• Location: Brewery District, 716 S High St
• Price range: Fine dining tasting menu ($$$)
• Cuisine Style: Bengali-American/Global live-fire cooking
• Standout Features: James Beard semifinalist chef, wood-fired cooking, dynamic tasting menu
• Perfect For: Adventurous diners, special occasions, culinary enthusiasts

Agni represents the apex of Columbus’s dining scene under chef Avishar Barua, whose restaurant has earned accolades from Bon Appetit to USA Today in just two years. Named for the Hindu god of fire, the restaurant builds its reputation around live-fire cooking techniques that transform international flavors through smoke and char. The Travels menu, a curated multicourse experience priced at $145 per person, offers over a dozen different bites with pleasant surprises. 

Barua’s background on Top Chef and his Bengali-American heritage infuse the menu with unexpected delights that might include influences from Thailand, Malaysia, or Mexico depending on his recent travels. Part of the sheer delight of Agni’s menu is seeing Barua’s love of fast food creep through in the form of elevated fries, nuggets and sandwiches. The chef’s counter facing the grill offers the ultimate insider experience, though be prepared for the heat. Expert wine pairings elevate each course.

8. Ampersand Asian Supper Club

• 📍 Location: Short North
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Modern Asian / Japanese / Izakaya
• 🔥 Standout Features: Speakeasy vibe, hidden entrance, stylish decor, creative cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Impressive date nights, cocktail lovers, and fans of hidden gems.

Don’t let the bodega storefront fool you; it’s a front for one of the coolest spots in the city. To get into Ampersand Asian Supper Club, you walk through a fake convenience store into a dark, neon-lit dining room. The vibe is pure speakeasy chic, buzzing with a trendy crowd and a great playlist. It feels like you’ve discovered a true secret.

The menu is a fantastic tour of modern Asian flavors, perfect for sharing. You absolutely have to start with the spicy tuna crispy rice—it’s an explosion of flavor and texture. Another can’t-miss dish is the soft, pillowy pork belly buns. It’s inventive, delicious food that perfectly matches the cool, hidden-gem atmosphere of the place.

9. High Bank Distillery Co

• Location: Grandview, 1051 Goodale Blvd
• Price range: Casual dining ($$)
• Cuisine Style: Modern American pub fare
• Standout Features: Working distillery, house-made spirits, elevated pub atmosphere
• Perfect For: Groups, craft spirit enthusiasts, casual dinner with drinks

High Bank Distillery Co distinguishes itself as both a working distillery and full-service restaurant, offering house-made spirits alongside elevated pub fare in a lively atmosphere. The distillery boasts award-winning spirits from Ohio’s most decorated Master Distiller, with their Whiskey War blend taking honors as America’s best blended whiskey three years running. The menu features creative twists on classic pub food, with standout dishes including nachos that wow diners and wings served with unique white BBQ sauce. 

The elevated grilled cheese with smoked garlic aioli and provolone blend exemplifies their approach to familiar favorites. Cocktails showcase house spirits with seasonally inspired takes on modern American classics. The Bang Bang broccoli has developed a devoted following among regulars. While the atmosphere can get loud, especially during events, the convivial energy matches the distillery’s community-focused mission. Weekend reservations recommended for dinner service.

10. The Boat House at Confluence Park

• 📍 Location: Confluence Park
• 💲 Price range: $40 – $80 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: New American / Seafood / Steakhouse
• 🔥 Standout Features: Best skyline view in the city, riverside dining, floor-to-ceiling windows, event space.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Impressing visitors, romantic evenings, and special occasion dinners.

Want the best dinner view in Columbus? This is it. The Boat House at Confluence Park sits right where two rivers meet, offering a stunning, panoramic view of the downtown skyline. As the sun sets and the city lights start to twinkle, the whole place feels magical. It’s a big, impressive space designed entirely around that killer view.

The menu is full of upscale American classics that match the elegant setting. It’s a perfect spot for seafood lovers, with dishes like the rich, creamy lobster bisque and perfectly seared scallops. If you’re a meat eater, their filet mignon is always a fantastic choice. This is the place for a major celebration.

11. Lincoln Social Rooftop

• Location: Short North, 711 N High St (9th floor)
• Price range: Cocktail lounge ($$)
• Cuisine Style: Small plates/Shareables
• Standout Features: Nine-story city views, retractable roof, fire pit
• Perfect For: Cocktails with a view, date nights, special events (21+ only)

Lincoln Social Rooftop provides Columbus’s premier elevated drinking experience with sweeping city views from the ninth floor of the Lincoln building. The urban rooftop lounge features a retractable roof and fire pit, creating a cool rooftop oasis ideal for guests to sip, savor and surround themselves within the cityscape. The cocktail program takes center stage with creative drinks like the Luke Skywalker (lemongrass-infused vodka, matcha, lemon) and interactive presentations that include edible decorations. The food menu focuses on shareable small plates including lobster corn dogs, hand rolls, and barbacoa tacos that complement the cocktail experience. 

Happy hour (4-6 PM) offers half-price wells and wine with discounted appetizers. The ivy wall provides the perfect Instagram backdrop, while the fire pit creates cozy ambiance during cooler months. Service can be inconsistent during peak times, and prices reflect the premium location. The strict 21+ policy and dress code expectations maintain an upscale atmosphere.

12. Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Joint

• 📍 Location: Old North
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per cocktail
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Cocktail Bar / Performance Venue / Burlesque
• 🔥 Standout Features: Burlesque and drag shows, pin-up theme, inclusive atmosphere, variety acts.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Unique nights out, bachelorette parties, and fans of alternative entertainment.

This is not a bar; it’s a glitter-fueled celebration of burlesque, drag, and all things fabulous. Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Joint is an intimate, inclusive spot where the main event is the incredible show on stage. The vibe is pure fun, with a retro pin-up theme and an energy that’s all about cheering on the amazing performers.

You’re here for the entertainment, but the drinks keep the party going. The cocktail list is creative and fun, perfect for sipping while you watch a show. This is the spot to grab your friends, get a round of drinks, and enjoy a night of boundary-pushing, body-positive performance art that you won’t forget.

13. Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse Columbus

• Location: Arena District, 125 W Nationwide Blvd
• Price range: All-you-can-eat ($$$)
• Cuisine Style: Brazilian churrasco
• Standout Features: Tableside meat carving, 30+ salad bar items, authentic gaucho service
• Perfect For: Groups, special celebrations, meat lovers

Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse Columbus delivers an authentic churrasco experience as America’s first Brazilian steakhouse, with over a dozen rotisserie grilled meats carved tableside by Brazilian Gauchos. The full rodizio experience includes unlimited trips to the award-winning salad bar featuring fresh fruits, signature salads, and Brazilian sides alongside the continuous parade of perfectly seasoned meats. 

Current pricing stands at $46.99 for the full rodizio dinner experience, which includes the complete salad bar and all grilled meats. Standout proteins include the garlic-seasoned top sirloin, bacon-wrapped chicken, and the guest-favorite grilled pineapple that provides a sweet counterpoint to the savory meats. The pineapple and lamb with garlic steak consistently rank as guest favorites. The traditional Brazilian sides like farofa and black bean stew add authenticity to the experience. Located across from Nationwide Arena, it’s perfectly positioned for pre-game dinners or special celebrations requiring impressive portions and interactive service.

14. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant

• 📍 Location: German Village
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: German / Sausage House / Buffet
• 🔥 Standout Features: A Columbus institution (since 1886), famous buffet, Bahama Mama sausage, giant cream puffs.
• 🎯 Perfect For: German food fans, big appetites, and a loud, festive meal.

This isn’t a restaurant; it’s an Oktoberfest party 365 days a year. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus is a Columbus legend, and the second you walk in, the incredible smell of sausage and sauerkraut and the sound of live polka music hit you. The vibe is loud, fun, and full of authentic German charm, right in the heart of historic German Village.

You are here for the famous Autobahn Buffet, an all-you-can-eat feast of German classics. You have to load up on their signature spicy Bahama Mama sausages and the perfectly crispy Wiener Schnitzel. But the real mission is to save room for their legendary, football-sized cream puff. It’s a true rite of passage.

15. Gemut Biergarten

• Location: Olde Towne East, 734 Oak St
• Price range: Casual dining ($$)
• Cuisine Style: German/European
• Standout Features: Converted 1850s firehouse, stunning stained glass, authentic German beers
• Perfect For: Beer enthusiasts, casual groups, German food lovers

Gemut Biergarten transforms a historic firehouse into an authentic German beer garden experience, complete with breathtaking stained glass windows in traditional paned style that depicts scenes celebrating the house brews. The building served as home to Columbus’s first all-Black firefighting crew and has hosted various projects including an arts center and music hall over the decades. The menu showcases traditional German fare with highlights including the massive Bavarian pretzel served with zippy cheese or mustard sauce, and sauerkraut balls that pack serious personality in their panko-crusted exterior. 

The Paprika Schnitzel features crunchified chicken with spiky paprika gravy, while the Jagerwurst delivers coarse-ground sausage with coriander, garlic and mustard seed on a poppyseed bun. I absolutely love the house beers. They represent excellent examples of traditional German styles, perfectly paired with the hearty fare. The large patio welcomes dogs and provides additional seating during pleasant weather. Weekend brunch starting at 11 AM expands the dining opportunities beyond the typical evening biergarten experience.

16. Lindey’s Restaurant & Bar

• 📍 Location: German Village
• 💲 Price range: $50 – $100 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: New American / Contemporary European / Upscale Bistro
• 🔥 Standout Features: Iconic restaurant, stunning patio, historic building, consistently top-rated.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Romantic dinners, special celebrations, and upscale brunch.

For decades, Lindey’s has been the definition of upscale dining in German Village. Housed in a gorgeous historic building, the vibe is pure timeless elegance. But the real showstopper is the absolutely stunning, multi-level brick patio, which feels like a secret garden in the middle of the city. It’s the most beautiful dining spot in Columbus.

The menu is refined American and European bistro food at its best. You can’t go wrong with their perfectly crisp calamari appetizer or the rich, flavorful lobster bisque. For a main, the tournedos of beef is a classic for a reason. With flawless service and that incredible setting, this is the spot for any major celebration.

17. Huli Huli Tiki Lounge (Powell)

• Location: Powell, 26 W Olentangy St
• Price range: Casual dining ($$)
• Cuisine Style: Polynesian/Hawaiian-inspired
• Standout Features: Authentic tiki atmosphere, specialty cocktails in souvenir mugs, themed escape
• Perfect For: Tropical escape, specialty cocktails, unique dining experience

Huli Huli Tiki Lounge transports guests to a Polynesian paradise in suburban Powell, offering an immersive tropical experience with authentic tiki decorations and specialty cocktails served in souvenir tiki mugs. Owned by Dustin and Genie Sun, who opened in February, the restaurant specializes in cocktails while offering thoughtfully prepared Hawaiian-inspired dishes. The menu focuses on island favorites like the Hawaiian plate with kalua pork, Bang Bang broccoli that has earned a devoted following, and coconut shrimp that delivers on tropical expectations. Cocktail highlights include the Blue Hawaiian and the potent Zombie, with each drink clearly marked for strength level. 

The restaurant seamlessly incorporates non-alcoholic versions of their regular cocktails onto the menu, making it inclusive for all guests. The atmosphere captures authentic tiki bar vibes with appropriate theming throughout the space. Tiki aficionados have praised it as “spot on” compared to well-known tiki establishments across the country. The large outdoor patio extends the tropical experience during warmer months, while the limited but focused menu ensures quality execution.

18. Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace

• 📍 Location: Multiple locations
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Creative Hot Dogs / Bar Fare / Kitsch
• 🔥 Standout Features: Huge, inventive hot dog menu, Vienna Beef dogs, vegan options, tater tots.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Hot dog lovers, late-night eats, and a fun, casual meal.

This isn’t just a hot dog joint; it’s a palace of weird and wonderful creations. Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace takes the humble hot dog and turns it into an art form. The vibe is pure kitschy fun, with walls covered in pop culture randomness. The air smells like grilled hot dogs and tater tots, and the sound is a happy buzz of people having a great time.

The menu is a wild ride of amazing hot dog toppings. You have to try the Hot Bollywood, a spicy dog with mango chutney, or the Cowgirl Carmen, topped with coney sauce and corn chips. They have great veggie and vegan dogs too. And you absolutely must get a side of crispy, perfect tater tots.

19. Wolf’s Ridge Brewing

• Location: Downtown, 215 N 4th St
• Price range: Upscale casual ($$$)
• Cuisine Style: Contemporary American with brewery elements
• Standout Features: Award-winning brewery, two distinct dining spaces, seasonal farm-to-table menu
• Perfect For: Beer and food pairings, weekend brunch, brewery tours

Wolf’s Ridge Brewing has earned national recognition as both an exceptional brewery and sophisticated dining destination since opening in 2013. The location features two distinct spaces: a traditional taproom with classic pub fare and a fancy-casual restaurant with seasonal, often farm-to-table menu. Executive chef Kris Ludwig collaborates with head brewer Francis Kunkler on incorporating upcoming beers into new dishes, taking pairing seriously as a big component of their operation. 

The standout duck breast showcases this philosophy, featuring Hawaiian stir-fried vegetables, ginger sauce, and chutney made with cherries and the brewery’s own hefeweizen. I love the seasonal menu, which changes constantly, focusing on local suppliers and seasonal ingredients that produce exciting dishes guests respond to. The award-winning Daybreak Coffee Vanilla Cream Ale and barrel-aged rarities have earned national acclaim, while the Clear Sky cream ale and Driftwood session IPA provide approachable entry points. The restored dining room with exposed brick, wooden floors, and living wall creates an elegant atmosphere. Weekend brunch featuring creative dishes like massive French toast portions draws devoted crowds.

20. The Thurman Cafe

• 📍 Location: German Village
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Burgers / Dive Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: Legendary giant burgers, The Thurmanator, neighborhood dive feel, featured on TV.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Burger fanatics, huge appetites, and experiencing a local legend.

This isn’t just a burger; it’s a challenge. The Thurman Cafe is a legendary Columbus dive bar famous for its ridiculously massive burgers. The place is small, always packed, and has that perfect, no-frills neighborhood vibe with dollar bills tacked to the walls. You’ll probably have to wait in line, but that just builds the anticipation for the beast you’re about to eat.

While all their burgers are huge, you’re here to witness The Thurmanator, a 1.5-pound monster of a burger that was featured on Man v. Food. Even their regular Thurman Burger is a two-handed masterpiece. Come very, very hungry, and prepare to be defeated by the best burger of your life. It’s an absolute institution.

21. North Market

• 📍 Location: Downtown / Bridge Park
• 💲 Price range: Varies widely by vendor
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Food Hall / Global / Market
• 🔥 Standout Features: Historic market, huge variety of food stalls, local merchants, lively atmosphere.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Foodie adventures, indecisive groups, and a taste of everything Columbus offers.

This isn’t a restaurant; it’s a culinary theme park. The historic North Market is a massive, bustling hall packed with dozens of independent food vendors slinging amazing eats from all over the world. The air is a glorious mix of smells—spicy noodles, fresh bread, roasting coffee, and sizzling meat. It’s loud, it’s fun, and it’s delicious.

This is the perfect spot when your group can’t agree on what to eat. You can get life-changing fried chicken from Hot Chicken Takeover, incredible Nepali dumplings from Momo Ghar, or amazing Polish food from Hubert’s. Grab a bunch of different things, find a seat upstairs, and enjoy the best food court you’ve ever been to.

22. Fox in the Snow Cafe

• 📍 Location: Multiple locations
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Bakery / Cafe / Coffee Shop
• 🔥 Standout Features: Incredible pastries, famous egg sandwich, rustic-chic vibe, great coffee.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Coffee and pastry lovers, casual brunch, and Instagrammable moments.

This is the spot for the best coffee and pastries in Columbus, period. Fox in the Snow Cafe has a cool, rustic-industrial vibe—it’s bright, airy, and always buzzing with a happy crowd. The incredible smell of fresh-brewed coffee and baking cinnamon hits you the second you walk in the door. It’s a beautiful, energetic place to start your day.

The pastry case is a work of art, but you are here for one thing above all else: the egg sandwich. It’s a masterpiece of souffléd egg, candied bacon, and arugula on a perfect piece of ciabatta. You also have to get their massive, gooey cinnamon roll. It’s simple food done with incredible care, and it’s absolutely perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Most Unique Restaurants in Columbus, OH

Are you looking for more content about where to eat in Columbus, Ohio? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Columbus’s most unique restaurants.

What famous restaurants are in Columbus, Ohio?

Columbus has carved a niche for itself in the culinary world, boasting several restaurants that have become iconic. Here are a few that have left a permanent mark:

1. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus: A household name, this spot is celebrated for its authentic German dishes, especially the legendary Bahama Mama sandwich.
2. Lindey’s Restaurant & Bar: A favorite for many, Lindey’s is known for its romantic patio setting and its blend of contemporary American and European cuisines.
3. The Book Loft of German Village: A one-of-a-kind experience, this place merges the charm of a vast bookstore with the comfort of a delightful café, making it a hit among both book lovers and food enthusiasts.

Is Columbus, Ohio a foodie city?

Columbus has rapidly evolved into a foodie paradise. With its rich blend of cultures, the city boasts an extensive range of dining options. From the spicy Nepali momos at North Market to the retro vibes and live performances at Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Joint, there’s a flavor for every palate. The city’s commitment to supporting local farmers and producers means fresh, quality ingredients are a staple in many dishes. If you’re into fine dining, street food, or anything in between, Columbus delivers!

Where can I find the best food in Columbus?

When it comes to the best food, Columbus doesn’t disappoint. For a taste of history blended with mouthwatering German dishes, Schmidt’s Sausage Haus is the place to be. If you’re in the mood for something eclectic, Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace offers hot dogs with a twist, from classic toppings to the more adventurous. And for those special occasions, Lindey’s Restaurant & Bar serves up dishes that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

Are there any hidden gem restaurants in Columbus?

Certainly! Columbus is full of delightful surprises. Ambrose and Eve, tucked away in the Brewery District, offers a menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring every visit is unique. Meanwhile, Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Joint is a vibrant fusion of food, art, and performance, making every dinner a showstopper.

Are there affordable places in Columbus to eat?

Columbus offers a range of eateries that won’t break the bank. Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace is a testament to the fact that gourmet doesn’t always mean expensive. And if you’re looking for variety, North Market is a haven of diverse vendors, each offering top-notch dishes at friendly prices.

Where can I find themed restaurants in Columbus, OH?

Columbus offers a variety of themed dining experiences that cater to diverse tastes. The Book Loft of German Village stands out for its literary ambiance, allowing diners to immerse themselves in a world of books while enjoying their meal. On the other hand, Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Joint offers a trip back in time with its retro vibes, live performances, and a menu that complements the golden era of pin-up culture.

Final Thoughts on Columbus’ Most Unique Restaurants

Columbus is a city that knows how to serve up some serious flavors. From the quirky vibes of The Book Loft of German Village to the bustling energy of North Market, every spot tells its own tale. It’s this eclectic blend of eateries that makes Columbus a unique place to eat.

Now, I won’t blame you if you’re already daydreaming about those spicy Nepali momos or that perfect cup of joe surrounded by endless bookshelves. Columbus has that effect on people. It’s a city that invites you in with open arms and a menu that’ll make your taste buds dance. So, pack your appetite, because Columbus is ready to take you on a flavor-packed adventure. And trust me, by the end of it, you’ll be raising a toast to the city that truly knows how to dish out the best.