29 Best Columbus Restaurants in 2024
Columbus restaurants have more to offer than ever before. Ohio’s state capital has long been a hotbed of culture and innovation, and the burgeoning food scene has also recently leapfrogged its peers in the Midwest, leading it to become one of America’s top food cities.
From tried and true classics to brash and bold creations, you’ll find a multi-faceted culinary gem in the heart of the Buckeye State. If you live in the area or are visiting soon and want to discover the top Columbus restaurants, read on for 29 of the city’s can’t-miss eateries.
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29 Best Restaurants in Columbus, Ohio
1. SGB Dubu
With massive portions and even bigger flavors, SGB Dubu is everything you want from a Korean restaurant in Columbus. This eatery offers a great introduction to the classics of Korean cuisine and is a fantastic spot to share a meal with friends.
The Vibe
Sleek modern seating combined with traditional Korean design elements gives SGB Dubu a classy yet casual vibe among Columbus restaurants.
What to Order
Start off with a kimchi pancake or the savory silken tofu soon dubu soup and then dig into Korean staples, such as saucy jap chae and steamy bibimbap.
SGB Dubu | 2950 Hayden Road, Columbus, OH 43245 | $$
2. Alqueria Farmhouse Kitchen
Alqueria Farmhouse Kitchen is one of those Columbus restaurants that shows the value of locally sourced ingredients and creative culinary imagination. Offering accessible modern American fare with elevated sensibilities, this spot allows the familiar to take on whole new forms.
The Vibe
Rustic and industrial, this warm and cozy restaurant caters to anyone with an appetite and affinity for big hunks of meat and gorgeous local vegetables.
What to Order
Start off with a meat and cheese board to whet your appetite, then nosh on buttermilk fried chicken with herb mascarpone purée or a juicy pork shank with Jimmy Red corn grits.
Alqueria Farmhouse Kitchen | 247 King Ave., Columbus, OH 43201 | $$
3. Xi Xia Western Chinese Cuisine
One of the most celebrated Chinese restaurants in Columbus, Xi Xia Western Chinese Cuisine serves decadent hand-pulled noodles and a variety of ultra-regional dishes.
The Vibe
A grade above your local Chinese takeout joint, Xi Xia Western Chinese Cuisine has an open and welcoming atmosphere framed by murals of sprawling mountain landscapes and natural wooden tables.
What to Order
The stirred noodles with soy and garlic is the dish to get — you’d be hard-pressed to find it at any other Columbus restaurant. Locals also can’t resist the salt and pepper chicken served with homemade sweet and sour sauce.
Xi Xia Western Chinese Cuisine | 1140 Kenny Centre Mall, Columbus, OH 43220 | $$
4. Plas Food and Drink
With a mantra of “everything in its place,” Plas Food and Drink delights diners with their take on modern rustic cuisine. This Columbus restaurant offers an approachable yet diverse menu with a special focus on house-made charcuterie and cheeses.
The Vibe
Intimate upscale dining with an inviting atmosphere. If you're looking for dinner date ideas in Columbus, this is the place to go.
What to Order
Order the Chef’s Charcuterie n’ Formaggio Board to start, then indulge in the maple-smoked duck carbonara. Like many upscale Columbus restaurants, the menu changes seasonally.
Plas Food and Drink | 21 E. Fifth Ave., Ste. 101, Columbus, OH 43201 | $$$
5. Katalina’s
A neighborhood favorite operating out of a converted gas station, Katalina’s is a breakfast and brunch spot that locals swear by. Ask anyone about the top Columbus restaurants for breakfast and you’re sure to hear about Katalina’s.
The Vibe
If the multi-color chalk scribbling all over the walls doesn’t give it away, Katalina’s is one of the most fun-loving and eccentric Columbus restaurants with a big focus on providing a phenomenal experience for their customers.
What to Order
When you’re at Katalina’s, you’ve got to get the sweet n’ spicy bacon. Customers also can’t get enough of the breakfast tacos and the pancake balls are the stuff of legends.
Katalina’s |1105 Pennsylvania Ave., Columbus, OH 43201 | $$
6. Huong Vietnamese Restaurant
Tucked away in an unassuming strip mall between a sub shop and a hair salon, family-run Huong Vietnamese Restaurant offers an extensive menu of dishes beyond the standard pho and báhn mì. It’s one of those Columbus restaurants you’ll be dreaming of long after the last bite.
The Vibe
Cozy and unpretentious, Huong Vietnamese Restaurant is a come-as-you-are spot where the food is the focus.
What to Order
Go for the fresh spring rolls, luscious bún bò hue soup or the show-stopping bánh xèo stuffed crêpe. If you want your order to go, they’ll even customize the containers to eat at home, in the car or at work.
Huong Vietnamese Restaurant | 1270 Morse Road, Columbus, OH 43229 | $$
7. Amul India
If you’re looking for a great Indian restaurant near Columbus, head northwest to Dublin and drop by Amul India. A superstar of the strip mall, this local favorite boasts flavors that will blow your expectations away.
The Vibe
An everyday sit-down dining vibe, Amul India gives customers a taste of the subcontinent experience in a casual atmosphere.
What to Order
Fill up on artfully spiced and extra-juicy chicken tikka or munch on some savory saag paneer. Don’t forget to take advantage of their lunch buffet, it’s one of the best deals you’ll find at any Columbus area restaurant.
Amul India | 5871 Sawmill Road, Dublin, OH 43017 | $$
8. Buckeye Donuts
Since 1969, Buckeye Donuts has been slinging the sweets that Columbus craves. Located just minutes from the OSU campus, this institution serves up all-star donuts, breakfast sandwiches and more. It’s one of those classic Columbus restaurants beloved by kids of all ages.
The Vibe
Classic donut shop with all the modern amenities. You can sit on one of the iconic red diner stools and soak in the history of one of the restaurants Columbus, Ohio is known for.
What to Order
What else? The buckeye! This peanut butter-filled chocolate donut is a local favorite you won’t find outside of Ohio.
Buckeye Donuts |1998 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201 | $
9. CRMD Ice Cream
Got a craving for ice cream in the state capital? Looking for a departure from run-of-the-mill Columbus restaurants? For delicious and bizarre frozen confections, you’ve got to check out CRMD Ice Cream.
The Vibe
Artsy, cool and infinitely Instagrammable, CRMD has its feet planted firmly in the 21st century. Exposed brick walls contrast with gorgeous marble countertops and provocative artwork at this Columbus restaurant.
What to Order
From black vanilla to Vietnamese coffee, there’s no shortage of fun and funky flavors to try. No matter what flavor you choose, be sure to get it in one of CRMD’s signature puffle egg waffles.
CRMD Ice Cream |1190 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201 | $$
10. Momo Ghar
If you find yourself in North Market, you’ve got to stop by Momo Ghar for some Tibetan and Nepalese eats. This food stall in the historic market is renowned as one of the most unique and important Columbus restaurants.
The Vibe
Set in the bustling backdrop of central Ohio’s favorite public market, Momo Ghar is a humble counter-service spot.
What to Order
If you’re at Momo Ghar, you’ve got to get the momos — Himalayan dumplings stuffed with a meat or vegetable filling. You also can’t go wrong with milk tea to wash it down at this one-of-a-kind Columbus restaurant.
Momo Ghar | 59 Spruce St., Columbus, OH 43215 | $$
11. Kolache Republic
Ever had a kolache? If not, Kolache Republic is the perfect place to start. Home of both sweet and savory versions of the classic Czech pastry, this bakery is a favorite of Columbus' German Village neighborhood and easily one of the best Columbus restaurants.
The Vibe
Bright and open with the smell of warm, yeasty kolaches wafting through the air, it’s just the sort of spot you’d want to start your morning with.
What to Order
Go for a classic sweet cheese kolache or munch on sausage, egg and cheese. If you’re around for the holidays, you can even order a turkey and stuffing kolache from one of the most unique restaurants Columbus, Ohio has to offer.
Kolache Republic | 702 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43206 | $
12. Pistacia Vera
If you’re in the mood for some real-deal pâtisserie, you can’t miss Pistacia Vera. Also located in the German Village, this cozy bakery serves some of the finest French pastries you can find at a Columbus restaurant.
The Vibe
Austere yet inviting, Pistacia Vera feels more like an art gallery than a bakery. That’s just how seriously this Columbus restaurant takes its sweets.
What to Order
You can’t go wrong with some macarons, pain au chocolat or a classic éclair. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, order a croque monsieur or the light and fluffy quiche.
Pistacia Vera | 541 S. Third St., Columbus, OH 43215 | $$
13. Kitchen Social
Lauded by critics and customers alike, Kitchen Social offers a menu of comfort food classics with an upscale attitude. It’s a titan among contemporary Columbus restaurants and has a little something for everyone.
The Vibe
With massive open ceilings and industrial design elements, Kitchen Social doesn’t commit to any one style or aesthetic. Whether you’re in the mood for a craft cocktail or a hearty meal, Kitchen Social does it all.
What to Order
You’ll have a hard time finding a more eclectic menu among Columbus restaurants. The cheddar and scallion biscuits are an essential part of any order at Kitchen Social. From there, you can savor the flavors of Korean barbecue cauliflower, crispy Thai shrimp or luxurious eggplant meatballs.
Kitchen Social | 8954 Lyra Drive, Columbus, OH 43240 | $$
14. Veritas
There are plenty of Columbus restaurants that enjoy a stellar reputation, but Veritas may be the leader of the pack. It’s often called the best restaurant in the city, and from start to finish, every aspect of the dining experience is designed to be unforgettable.
The Vibe
Refined and elegant, Veritas is one of the fanciest Columbus restaurants — definitely the kind of place you’ll want to dress up for.
What to Order
Veritas offers a customizable five-course menu with wine pairings available. From panang curry to fjord trout, there are some seriously interesting options. No matter what you choose, it’s sure to be outstanding.
Veritas | 11 W. Gay St., Columbus, OH 43215 | $$$
15. Comune
Columbus restaurants might not be known for their vegan offerings, but Comune is challenging that. Comune serves guests plant-forward cuisine in a lush and vibrant atmosphere. With a killer cocktail program and a menu to match, it’s simple vegan cuisine that feels anything but.
The Vibe
Packed to the brim with fresh growing greenery, Comune is an upscale yet casual spot with a penchant for plants.
What to Order
Share the crispy rice with the table or do your best carnivore impression with a generous oyster mushroom steak. The housemade pita with three rotating seasonal spreads is beloved by customers and is arguably the best you’ll find at any Columbus restaurant.
Comune | 677 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43206| $$
16. Ampersand Asian Supper Club
Scratch-made ramen, gourmet ingredients and a bar program boasting popular and more unique Japanese spirits make Ampersand Asian Supper Club a contender for one of the best Columbus restaurants.
The Vibe
Ampersand Asian Supper Club has an upscale yet casual vibe. Sharp angles and cold grays balance with soft woods and vibrant framed portraits.
What to Order
You won’t want to miss out on the lunch special with a starter and a main for under $20. Just try and find a better deal than that in any comparable Columbus restaurants! Choose from options like nori fries, gyoza, tonkotsu ramen, pork chashu rice bowls and more.
Ampersand Asian Supper Club | 940 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201 | $$
17. The Refectory
Voted one of the 100 best restaurants in the United States and known as one of the most popular Columbus restaurants among locals, The Refectory is the height of fine dining in the state capital. With an ornate interior and a refined atmosphere, it’s a restaurant that announces that you’re in for a premier culinary experience from the moment you step through the door.
The Vibe
Upscale to the utmost, this Columbus restaurant has the feeling of a lavish dining room in a rustic country maison. Make sure you wear something nice if dining here!
What to Order
The Refectory’s French-inspired menu is constantly changing, but you can count on homerun renditions of dishes like lamb chops, filet mignon and venison and pork terrine at this paragon among Columbus restaurants.
The Refectory | 1092 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43220 | $$$
18. Mitchell’s Ocean Club
Not only is it one of the best seafood restaurants in Columbus, but it’s one of the best Columbus, Ohio restaurants, period. Mitchell’s Ocean Club gives diners the epitome of surf and turf in a pristine modern setting.
The Vibe
Somewhere between a jacket-required steakhouse and a sleek sushi bar, Mitchell’s Ocean Club has a special occasion vibe.
What to Order
With a name like Mitchell’s Ocean Club, you can’t pass up the Point Judith calamari or Dutch Harbor king crab legs. The dry-aged wagyu strip is a worthy seafood alternative for any landlubbers in your party.
Mitchell’s Ocean Club | 4002 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219 | $$$
19. The Pearl
If you’re in the mood for seafood in Columbus but want something a little more down to earth, try The Pearl. This inviting Columbus restaurant offers an approachable menu of seafood’s greatest hits with some thoughtful twists.
The Vibe
Laid-back yet dignified, The Pearl is a Columbus restaurant that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a big dinner. It’s just as appropriate for catching up with the boys as it is for a date with your favorite.
What to Order
Chow down on shrimp and grits, seafood gumbo or the Southern fried chicken served with a hot and gooey sticky bun. Don’t forget to save room for the scratch-made pies that are baked fresh daily.
The Pearl | 641 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215 | $$
20. Ray Ray’s Hog Pit
A Columbus institution, Ray Ray’s Hog Pit serves up legendary barbecue from their fleet of food trucks and trailers. Combining old-school traditions with new-school innovations, this cadre of mobile Columbus restaurants offers customers some of the best smoked meat in the Midwest.
The Vibe
It doesn’t get much more easy-going than this. Down home Americana, t-shirt and jeans — just don’t forget the napkins.
What to Order
You can’t go wrong with favorites like succulent pulled pork, spicy jerk chicken and smoky beef brisket. Ray Ray’s also offers plenty of extra sauce for your dipping and smothering needs.
Ray Ray’s Hog Pit | Multiple Locations | $$
21. Smoked On High
Operating out of a converted Victorian house in the Brewery District, Smoked On High is the brainchild of barbecue evangelist Max McGarity. This Columbus restaurant gives diners high-quality homestyle American classics.
The Vibe
Warm and inviting, Smoked On High is a no-frills barbecue joint that keeps the emphasis on serving great food.
What to Order
You can dive into a slab or ribs or brisket at this Columbus restaurant. Alternatively, go for any one of Smoked On High’s stacked sandwiches.
Smoked On High | 755 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43206 | $$
22. Mikey’s Late Night Slice
Mikey’s Late Night Slice is a favorite Columbus restaurant known for serving picture-perfect pizza. If you’re looking for an outside-the-box slice shop with an attitude, this is the place for you.
The Vibe
Off-kilter and unapologetically weird, Mikey’s Late Night Slice is like a Teenage Mutant Ninja fantasy come to life. There are certainly more dignified Columbus restaurants, but few are even half as fun.
What to Order
Tear into a slice of the spicy pepperoni with banana peppers, red pepper flakes and Sriracha or go meat-free with the vegan Buffalo chicken.
Mikey’s Late Night Slice | Multiple Locations | $
23. Harvest Pizzeria
Using locally sourced ingredients to craft every one of their glorious pies, Harvest Pizzeria is a small chain of Columbus restaurants renowned for its fresh and flavorful menu that's available at multiple locations.
The Vibe
Much more than your average neighborhood pizza joint, Harvest Pizzeria is as much a place you could go for a great glass of wine as for a great slice.
What to Order
The Ohio Double Bacon is a masterpiece of greasy pizza that’s sure to satisfy even the emptiest of bellies. Harvest also has plenty of pasta dishes and small plates at all of their Columbus restaurants if you’re not in the mood for pizza.
Harvest Pizzeria | Multiple Locations | $$
24. Speck Italian Eatery
An emerging powerhouse in the Columbus food scene, Speck Italian Eatery gives diners a taste of Italy with contemporary American flare. From playful takes on the tried and true to totally new interpretations, this Columbus restaurant’s menu is stacked with heavy hitters.
The Vibe
A refined and meticulous dining experience that doesn’t take itself too seriously. The food is at the caliber of the finest Columbus restaurants while offered at the price of an everyday neighborhood joint.
What to Order
Feast on the confit wings with Calabrian chile or delicate short ribs and finish with a selection of truly impressive dessert offerings, including semifreddo and affogato.
Speck Italian Eatery | 89 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215 | $$
25. Barcelona
Authentic Spanish food might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Ohio, but Barcelona just might change that. While many of the top Columbus restaurants incorporate American elements into their dishes, Barcelona is a pure, undiluted taste of Spain.
The Vibe
Dignified and vibrant, this Columbus restaurant offers upscale dining with a decidedly Iberian influence, from the artwork to the wallpaper.
What to Order
As with any Spanish dining experience, the tapas are a must. Start with some carpaccio de pulpo and then take the plunge into the famous Paella Barcelona.
Barcelona | 263 E. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43206 | $$
26. Basi Italia
Basi Italia is a Columbus restaurant that’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Cradled in the heart of the Victorian Village neighborhood, this small restaurant boasts enormous flavor.
The Vibe
Friendly and relaxed neighborhood dining where the staff goes the extra mile to make you feel at home.
What to Order
Zucchini pronto with toasted almonds and pecorino is a great way to start the meal. If carbs are no issue, dig into the smoked chicken carbonara or the baked ricotta gnocchi.
Basi Italia | 811 Highland St., Columbus, OH 43215| $$$
27. Joya’s
With Chef Avishar Barua at the helm, Joya’s has become a destination among Columbus restaurants for fun and affordable fare. Offering a stunning selection of South Asian dishes, Joya’s is sure to surprise and delight.
The Vibe
Fast casual with lots of extra love. Although not open for dinner, it’s a great place to drop by for breakfast on the way to the office or for lunch with a few friends.
What to Order
Columbus swears by Joya’s breakfast sandwich served on a “pav-tato” roll with cheesy eggs and chutney. Be sure to try their Not Pad Thai or Joya’s Fried Rice for a satisfying meal with a spicy kick.
Joya’s | 657 High St., Worthington, OH 43085 | $$
28. Lindey’s
A landmark of Columbus culinary history, Lindey’s has been in operation for over 40 years. Throughout its storied existence, Lindey’s has served diners some of the finest food in the city and remains one of the most famous Columbus, Ohio restaurants to this day.
The Vibe
About as classic as it gets, it's the sort of place your grandfather would go for a T-bone steak and a scotch on the rocks.
What to Order
The lobster bisque and the crab cakes are both especially good. But for the true Lindey’s experience, you’ve got to go with the classic steak frites.
Lindey’s | 169 E. Beck St., Columbus, OH 43206 | $$$
29. The Top Steakhouse
With a name like The Top Steakhouse it has to be one of the best Columbus restaurants, right? Right. This spot is a local favorite for its big flavors and generous portions.
The Vibe
A modern American steakhouse with intimate low-lighting. It’s perfect for a date or anniversary.
What to Order
If the décor is any indication, you’ve got to order the greatest hits, starting with a plump jumbo shrimp cocktail as appetizer. A thick porterhouse or New York strip will show you why this steakhouse is tops.
The Top Steakhouse | 2891 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43209 | $$$
Try Cooking Columbus Foods
There’s no shortage of outstanding Columbus restaurants to choose from. But if you’re feeling inspired and want to try making some of those amazing dishes yourself, there are plenty of cooking classes in Columbus that you can try. From mouthwatering macarons to tantalizing Thai, you’ll learn the techniques and traditions that make both international dishes and local Columbus foods great.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
With an astounding array of cultures and cuisines, Columbus restaurants have something for everyone. After a few bites, it’s clear that the city is a haven for all things delicious. Whether you want an exclusive fine dining experience or a laidback late-night bite, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re after in the Ohio state capital.
For even more ways to explore Columbus and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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