Columbus Ohio Food Guide: Discover the Best Restaurants & Culinary Hotspots for an Unforgettable Trip
Welcome, food adventurers! Today, we’re diving into an epicurean journey, a perfect escape from the everyday, focusing on one of America’s most exciting culinary destinations: Columbus, Ohio. Picture a vibrant city bursting with innovative flavors, charming eateries, and passionate entrepreneurs – that’s Columbus in a nutshell, and it’s an absolute must-visit for any food lover.
My recent three-day immersion into Columbus’s dynamic food scene, affectionately dubbed the ‘Taste of Columbus’ trip, was an experience like no other. Organized by the fantastic team at Experience Columbus, this whirlwind adventure saw me and a group of fellow blogging friends explore a staggering 17 food establishments in just three days. It was, without exaggeration, a non-stop food marathon that left me incredibly impressed by the city’s diverse and thriving culinary landscape.
Before this trip, Columbus was a city I hadn’t had the pleasure of exploring, but it quickly became clear that it’s a hidden gem for foodies. The city hums with the energy of creative entrepreneurs dedicated to making a significant impact in the food industry. You’ll find a delightful array of eclectic cafes, cozy independent coffee shops, quaint old-school bakeries, charming restaurants, and burgeoning small breweries around every corner. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, resulting in a unique dining experience that caters to all tastes.
If you’re searching for a fun, affordable, and incredibly rewarding travel spot for a long weekend trip or a more extended vacation, Columbus, Ohio, should undoubtedly be at the top of your list. Prepare to be delighted by its culinary prowess, warm hospitality, and vibrant local culture. Let’s delve into some of the incredible places I discovered.
Columbus, Ohio Travel Guide: Where to Eat, Stay, and Play
Where to Stay in Columbus: Hotel Leveque
When embarking on urban adventures, I typically gravitate towards smaller, more intimate Airbnb accommodations. However, for this particular trip to Columbus, we had the distinct pleasure of calling Hotel Leveque our home base. This exquisite Autograph Collections boutique hotel is perfectly situated in downtown Columbus and offered an unparalleled stay.
Nestled within the iconic Leveque Tower, a stunning Art Deco masterpiece constructed in the late 1920s, the hotel itself is a work of art. From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of historic elegance blended seamlessly with modern luxury. Our rooms were nothing short of breathtaking – stylish, incredibly comfortable, and each boasting a unique layout with its own celestial-themed design. My room, for instance, featured a magical star projector that cast constellations onto the ceiling, transforming the space into a personal observatory. Even the bathrooms were remarkably designed, offering a luxurious retreat after a day of culinary exploration.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Hotel Leveque’s location is a major advantage. It’s within easy walking distance of many of Columbus’s most popular neighborhoods, including the charming and historic German Village. This prime spot makes it an ideal choice for travelers eager to explore the city on foot. As a fun aside, I even spotted the famous Guy Fieri in the hotel lobby one morning – a testament to the hotel’s appeal to culinary personalities!
The Best Places to Eat in Columbus: A Foodie’s Dream
Over our intense three-day culinary immersion in Columbus, we had the incredible opportunity to visit over 17 distinct dining establishments across the city. As someone who prides themselves on a hearty appetite, I can confidently say we consumed a *lot* of food! Now, allow me to guide you through the absolute best spots that left a lasting impression, making Columbus a top foodie destination.
The Kitchen: An Interactive Culinary Experience
Our gastronomic journey commenced with an engaging evening at The Kitchen. More than just a restaurant, The Kitchen is a unique event space offering communal cooking classes designed for groups. The concept is wonderfully interactive: you collaborate with your group to prepare various dishes throughout the evening, culminating in a shared meal where everyone enjoys the fruits of their collective labor. It’s a fantastic way to bond, learn new skills, and savor delicious food in a beautifully appointed setting.
One of the best aspects of The Kitchen experience is the thoughtful preparation. All ingredients are prepped, pre-measured, and perfectly portioned for you, taking away any stress. And, perhaps even better for a relaxing evening, there’s no need to worry about the dishes afterwards! It’s truly a fun, interactive, and seamless culinary adventure perfect for friends, families, or team-building.
Columbus Food Adventures: The Ultimate Breakfast Tour
The following morning kicked off with our first, and truly non-stop, marathon of eats. We embarked on an unforgettable breakfast tour guided by local food blogger extraordinaire, Nick Dekker of Breakfast with Nick. Nick collaborates with Columbus Food Adventures, a company renowned for its incredible selection of Columbus food tours, and their breakfast tour is an absolute highlight.
Over several hours, we navigated through five distinct breakfast spots across the city, sampling their most popular and beloved items. This tour offered a fantastic blend of both established, older institutions and trendy new establishments, each showcasing very different culinary styles and flavors. It was an excellent way to get a comprehensive taste of Columbus’s vibrant morning scene.
Kolache Republic: A Taste of Czech Tradition
Our inaugural stop on the breakfast tour was Kolache Republic, a charming spot specializing in homemade kolaches. For those unfamiliar, kolaches are traditional Czech pastries, wonderfully soft and often filled with sweet jams, fruits, or savory ingredients. Before this trip, I wasn’t particularly familiar with them, but after experiencing Kolache Republic’s offerings, I’m now eager to try my hand at making my own!
Kolache Republic offers an impressive array of 25 different flavors, spanning both sweet and savory varieties. We had the pleasure of trying bites of most of them, and I can attest to their delightful quality. My personal favorites were the savory, egg-filled kolaches – a perfect, satisfying start to the day.
Fox in the Snow: A Trendy Cafe Gem
Without a doubt, Fox in the Snow emerged as my absolute favorite spot during the entire breakfast tour. Housed within a beautifully converted garage, this incredibly trendy cafe and coffee shop exudes a captivating charm. It offers an enormous selection of homemade pastries – the cinnamon rolls are legendary, and the souffléd egg and bacon breakfast sandwich was simply fantastic. Coupled with their excellent coffee and other breakfast items, it’s a culinary paradise.
What truly sets Fox in the Snow apart, beyond its delicious food and stunning industrial-chic design, is its intentional lack of WiFi. Stepping inside, you immediately notice a refreshing buzz of genuine human connection; people are engaged in conversation, enjoying each other’s company, rather than being glued to laptops. It fosters a truly social and relaxed atmosphere. If I were a local in Columbus, I could easily picture myself spending countless hours at this delightful cafe. It’s a definitive must-visit when you’re in the city, offering not just great food but a unique and welcoming ambiance.
Market Italian Village: A Mediterranean Delight
Our third stop on the comprehensive breakfast tour led us to Market Italian Village. This versatile establishment seamlessly blends the charm of an Italian deli, a specialty grocery store, and an Italian/Mediterranean-style restaurant. It’s a true community hub, offering a wide array of local beers and wines, artisanal food products, and a full restaurant menu that tempts with its diverse offerings.
During our visit, we had the pleasure of sampling their shakshuka, a beautifully presented dish featuring a classic spiced tomato sauce, perfectly poached eggs, crumbled feta, crispy chickpeas, and house-made pita bread. The flavors were harmonious and vibrant, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, quality ingredients. Market Italian Village offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely meal or picking up gourmet provisions.
Buckeye Donuts: A Timeless Columbus Institution
Our fourth stop introduced us to a true Columbus old-school institution: Buckeye Donuts. Located just steps from Ohio State University, this beloved establishment has been operating 24 hours a day, every single day of the year, since its opening in 1969. It’s a testament to its enduring popularity and commitment to serving fresh, delicious donuts around the clock.
We had the unique opportunity to step into the bustling back of the bakery, witnessing firsthand the magic where every single donut is baked and glazed from scratch. The aroma alone was intoxicating! Despite the numerous prior stops, I somehow managed to find room to sample bites of several varieties. The classic glazed, the fruity blueberry, the rustic apple fritter, and the incredibly rich, chocolatey Buckeye donut quickly became my favorites. Buckeye Donuts is a living piece of Columbus history and a must-visit for any donut enthusiast.
The Table: Farm-to-Table Elegance
Last, but certainly not least, on our incredible breakfast tour was The Table, a charming cafe and restaurant with a strong focus on exquisite farm-to-table cuisine. The moment you step into this cozy, light-filled space, you’re greeted by a beautifully designed interior featuring an eclectic mix of comfortable furniture, lush plants, and thoughtful decor. It’s an inviting atmosphere that encourages lingering.
By this point in the tour, I was completely stuffed from our previous stops, but the few items we managed to try were absolutely delicious and truly stood out. The Akoori, an Indian-spiced scrambled egg dish, offered a delightful twist on breakfast, while their housemade Brioche French toast, adorned with tart sour cherries, was a sweet revelation. The quality of ingredients and the careful preparation shone through in every bite. The Table is a place where you could easily spend hours, soaking in the ambiance and savoring meticulously crafted dishes.
North Market: Columbus’s Premier Culinary Hub
On the subsequent afternoon, our culinary exploration led us to the vibrant North Market, an essential stop for any food enthusiast visiting Columbus. This bustling indoor market is a treasure trove of local food stalls, offering everything from artisanal spice shops and fresh produce vendors to lively bars, enticing bakeries, and an abundance of delicious grab-and-go options. It immediately reminded me of a smaller, more accessible, and perhaps more affordable version of San Francisco’s famous Ferry Building, but with its own distinct Columbus charm.
North Market is an incredibly fun place to spend several hours, immersing yourself in the local flavors and trying a vast selection of culinary delights. The atmosphere is energetic and inviting, making it a perfect spot for both a casual snack and a full meal. If you’re in Columbus, missing the North Market would be a culinary oversight!
North Market Spices: A Sensory Experience
Within the North Market, North Market Spices stands out as a neat and aromatic stall. It boasts a truly massive selection of bulk spices and meticulously crafted house-made spice blends. What makes this spot particularly engaging is that each spice is accompanied by a sample jar, allowing you to fully appreciate its aroma before purchasing. I could have easily lingered in this fragrant stall for a very long time, exploring every exotic scent. We were even generously given a complimentary pouch of their Sazón blend, which I’ve already incorporated into several dishes back home and absolutely adore. It’s a fantastic place to pick up unique ingredients or gifts for the home cook.
Hot Chicken Takeover: Nashville’s Heat in Ohio
Perched on the second floor of the North Market, Hot Chicken Takeover brings the fiery flavors of classic Nashville hot fried chicken to Columbus. This popular spot offers a range of heat levels, allowing diners to choose their preferred intensity. We sampled both their hot and cold (meaning non-spicy, though the “hot” is the star!) fried chicken, and I can unequivocally say: go for the hot, all the way! The chicken is perfectly crispy and incredibly flavorful, a true comfort food delight. Paired with their homemade slaws and a side of their creamy banana pudding, it’s a wonderfully satisfying and indulgent meal that captures the essence of Southern comfort with a kick.
Brezel: Authentic Bavarian Pretzels
Brezel is another standout vendor within North Market, specializing in authentic Bavarian-style pretzels and a variety of pretzel products. While I wouldn’t typically describe myself as a “big pretzel person,” Brezel completely changed my perspective. They offer an impressive range of styles, from traditional savory pretzels to innovative sweet variations, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The pretzels we tried were literally just baked, served incredibly fresh and still warm from the oven, which made all the difference. The soft, chewy interior and slightly crisp exterior, paired with their delicious dips, made for a truly memorable snack.
North Market Cheese: Local Pairings
Amidst the bustling market, I somehow managed to carve out just enough room to indulge in a delightful small beer and cheese tasting at North Market Cheese. This quaint bar within the market focuses exclusively on local Ohio beers and cheeses, showcasing the state’s impressive craft scene. The pairings were expertly chosen and absolutely fantastic, highlighting the quality and diversity of Ohio-made products. It’s the perfect stop for a light snack, a refreshing craft beer, or a relaxed cocktail with friends, offering a genuine taste of local artistry.
Little Eater: Celebrating Vegetables
Little Eater is an absolutely adorable mini produce grocer and restaurant that champions the humble vegetable, elevating it to the star of the plate. This charming spot is consistently filled to the brim with artisanal food products and seasonal produce sourced directly from local Ohio farmers. The visionary founder and owner, Cara Mangini, possesses a deep passion for celebrating vegetables and crafting dishes where they truly shine.
Cara is also the acclaimed author of the cookbook, Vegetable Butcher [affiliate link], an indispensable resource for anyone looking to master the art of prepping and cooking vegetables – it’s definitely worth checking out. The food at Little Eater is fantastic, incredibly fresh, and wholesome, offering vibrant, health-conscious options without compromising on flavor. This is another essential stop for anyone visiting Columbus, especially those who appreciate fresh, local, and vegetable-forward cuisine.
Pistachia Vera: A Parisian Pastry Dream
Pistachia Vera’s beautiful bakery stall within North Market immediately transported me to the classic patisseries of Paris and other European cities. This exquisite spot offers a large and enticing selection of French pastries that are as beautiful to look at as they are delicious to eat. Their homemade macarons are legendary, with the pistachio and buckeye flavors being perennial best-sellers. I honestly wanted to try absolutely everything in their display case!
In addition to their North Market stall, Pistachia Vera also operates a more traditional sit-down cafe location in downtown Columbus, offering a perfect spot for a leisurely coffee and pastry experience. Whether you grab a quick treat or settle in for a delightful moment, Pistachia Vera delivers an authentic taste of French elegance.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams: An Iconic Ohio Treat
A true culinary tour of Columbus would be incomplete without a mandatory stop at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams. While Jeni’s first location is housed within North Market, we visited their charming shop in the trendy German Village neighborhood, which offers a delightful atmosphere for enjoying their renowned treats. This was a truly special experience, as we had the incredible opportunity to meet and chat with Jeni Britton Bauer herself, the visionary founder.
Jeni is an incredibly kind, down-to-earth individual, and it was profoundly inspiring to hear her speak about her commitment to local producers, her journey of growing a small business into a large, successful enterprise, and her all-time favorite ice cream creations. Her passion for quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations is palpable. I also had the chance to sample a few new-to-me Jeni’s ice cream flavors, some of which aren’t yet available in grocery stores! The cream puff flavor was a revelation, and the lemon blueberry – a delightful summer twist on her classic lemon buttermilk – quickly became a new favorite. Jeni’s isn’t just ice cream; it’s an experience built on passion, quality, and community.
Flowers & Bread: A Unique Culinary and Creative Hub
Our second morning in Columbus unfolded at Flowers & Bread, an incredibly neat and innovative space that seamlessly combines a bakery and coffee shop with a vibrant flower workshop. This multi-concept establishment, co-owned by a French Culinary Institute (ICE) graduate, offers a truly unique and delightful experience.
Our visit commenced with a gorgeous brunch spread served in their private event space, a versatile venue perfect for everything from baby showers to wedding celebrations. Following this delectable meal, we participated in a quick bread-stenciling class, adding a creative touch to freshly baked loaves. The highlight for many was the homemade flower necklace workshop, a truly fun and unique activity that I had never experienced before. Flowers & Bread is such a special spot in Columbus, blending culinary arts with floral design in an inspiring way. I wholeheartedly recommend paying it a visit for a memorable and engaging experience.
Basi-Italia: Intimate Italian Dining
For our final dinner in Columbus, we indulged in a fantastic meal at Basi-Italia, widely recognized as one of the city’s most popular Italian restaurants. The restaurant exudes a charming and intimate ambiance, with a delightful combination of indoor and outdoor seating that creates a perfect setting for a memorable evening. The food itself was absolutely fantastic, delivering some of the best classic Italian dishes I’ve enjoyed in a long time.
Among the standout dishes, the Eggplant Parmesan was a particular revelation. Its unique preparation, using cornmeal instead of traditional flour, resulted in a wonderfully crispy texture that was simply divine. The signature Zucchini Pronto salad was another favorite, fresh and perfectly balanced. While these two were highlights, everything we sampled at Basi-Italia was prepared with care and skill, confirming its reputation as a top-tier dining experience in Columbus.
Katalina’s: A Latin and Southern Fusion Favorite
Our final culinary stop in Columbus, on our last morning, was the incredibly cool and character-filled Katalina’s. This unique spot offers a vibrant blend of indoor and outdoor seating, though the indoor space is quite limited, making it wise to arrive early to secure a table. Katalina’s is celebrated for its distinctive Latin and Southern twisted cuisine, proudly featuring local produce and artisanal ingredients.
They are famously known for their Original Pancake Balls™, and the Nutella-filled ones were truly insane – a must-try sweet treat! If your palate leans more savory, the Shagbark breakfast black bean soup might sound unconventional for breakfast, but trust me, it works and is utterly delicious. Their avocado toast also comes highly recommended. I absolutely loved how unique and eclectic Katalina’s felt; it’s the kind of neighborhood gem where I could easily picture myself as a regular if I lived in Columbus, a true testament to its charm and fantastic food.
Where to Try Local Brews + Spirits in Columbus
Beyond its burgeoning food scene, Columbus is also a fantastic destination for enthusiasts of craft beverages. The city and its surrounding areas are home to countless local breweries and distilleries, each offering unique concoctions worth exploring. While our whirlwind tour allowed us to sample only a handful, the quality and innovation we experienced were exceptional. For more ideas, be sure to check out this comprehensive list of Columbus breweries.
Rockmill Brewery: Belgian-Style Ales in a Serene Setting
Following our intense morning breakfast tour, we boarded a bus and ventured out of the city center to visit Rockmill Brewery. This captivating brewery specializes in exquisite Belgian-style farmhouse ales and is nestled on a truly gorgeous former horse farm, offering breathtaking views overlooking a tranquil pond. The setting was incredibly serene and peaceful; I could have easily spent hours soaking in the idyllic atmosphere.
During our visit, we had the pleasure of sampling all of their distinctive ales, with the saisons quickly becoming my personal favorites due to their crisp, complex flavors. We also received a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour, observing where they meticulously brew and bottle every product right on the property. The experience was rounded out with epic charcuterie boards, featuring a delectable selection of Ohio cheeses and house-made charcuterie, perfectly complementing the artisanal beers. Rockmill Brewery is more than just a place to drink beer; it’s a destination for relaxation and appreciation of fine craft.
Watershed Distillery: Craft Spirits and Modern Comfort Food
That evening, our journey continued to Watershed Distillery, a pioneering force in Ohio’s craft spirits movement. Here, we were treated to mini sips of their impressive selection of distilled liquors – a truly enlightening experience for the palate. The distillery also houses an exceptional in-house restaurant that masterfully blends modern twists with classic comfort food. The hay-smoked ribs were a particular favorite of mine, offering a unique smoky depth that was simply unforgettable.
While I generally don’t consider myself a “big spirits gal,” the Nocino, an Italian walnut liqueur, truly captivated me with its distinct and sophisticated flavor profile. Watershed Distillery is an incredibly fun spot to visit, especially if you’re keen on exploring local spirit tasting and enjoying innovative culinary creations. It’s a testament to Columbus’s burgeoning craft beverage scene and its commitment to quality and creativity.
Our Blogging Crew (top row to bottom, left to right): Glory, Brenda, Phillip, Michael, Jen, Lindsay, me, Allie, Erin, and Joanne
A heartfelt thank you to Experience Columbus for generously hosting us on this truly incredible culinary tour of Columbus. I was profoundly inspired by the city’s dynamic food scene and the dedication of its local business owners, who exhibit such immense passion for producing exceptional food and wholeheartedly supporting local growers and artisans.
To reiterate, if you are planning your next trip and searching for a fantastic small city to explore, overflowing with character, creativity, and outstanding food, I wholeheartedly urge you to add Columbus, Ohio, to your travel bucket list. It truly offers a vibrant and welcoming experience for every type of traveler, especially those with an appreciation for delicious discoveries.
I received complimentary meals and accommodations in Columbus through Experience Columbus, however I did not receive any other compensation to write this post. Thanks for following me along on my travel adventures!