Columbus Ohio Food Scene

Columbus, Ohio has become a midwest foodie destination with its diverse array of restaurants, local markets, and food festivals. From classic comfort foods to exotic global cuisines, Columbus has an ever-growing food scene that attracts visitors and satisfies residents.

German Village is one of the top neighborhoods for food in Columbus. It features authentic German restaurants like Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and The Book Loft Cafe, along with bakeries, cafes, and coffee shops situated in charming red-brick buildings. Nearby Brewery District has Barley’s Brewing Company which brews its own beers and serves hearty pub fare.

Short North Arts District is another hot spot for dining. It boasts eclectic galleries, boutiques, and some of the best restaurant options in Columbus. Eat at hip spots like Condado Tacos, Marcella’s, or The Eagle for fried chicken. The North Market nearby has over 30 merchants under one roof selling fresh produce, meats, baked goods and other artisanal food products.

Close to Ohio State University campus, Clintonville and Victorian Village also have excellent casual restaurants, diners, and international eateries. Rav Guru and Diaspora serve authentic Indian flavors, while Tommy’s Diner is great for all-American classics like hamburgers, milkshakes, and apple pie. Due Amici has hearty plates of Italian pastas, pizzas, and sandwiches.

For upscale fine dining, Lindey’s in German Village has won awards for its elegant French-American cuisine and extensive wine list in a charming 1835 home. The Refectory is located in a former church and dazzles with contemporary American cuisine. It offers cooking classes too. Cameron Mitchell Restaurants headquartered in Columbus own many popular upscale restaurants like Ocean Prime and The Barn at Rocky Fork Creek.

Columbus has a bounty of options for breakfast lovers. Fox in the Snow Cafe is known for artisanal breakfast sandwiches, baked goods and coffee drinks. The Tavern on Grand features fluffy pancakes and eggs benedict. Hang Over Easy and Nancy’s Home Cooking are also favorites for hearty morning meals.

Columbus has specialty food stores like Hills Market, Saraga International Grocery, and The Crest Gastropub & Deli carrying unique ingredients to cook with or assemble creative charcuterie boards. Northstar Cafe uses locally-sourced and organic ingredients for delicious farm-to-table fare.

Major events for foodies in Columbus include the Columbus Food Truck Festival, Columbus Coffee Festival, Columbus Brew Week, and Hot Times Festival focusing on peppers and spicy foods. Columbus truly satisfies all tastes and budgets for an appetizing food scene.