31 Best Diners in Columbus, Ohio in 2024
Are you looking for the best diners Columbus has to offer? Ready to explore the nostalgic era of laid-back diner settings and delicious diner foods? Then you’re in the right place. We’ve compiled a list of the top diners in Columbus to explore.
There’s nothing like taking a step back into the past and revisiting the classic American breakfast and lunch fare that comes with it. Simpler times, simpler food, often made from scratch. That’s what diner food is all about. Whether you enjoy untouched classic flavors, or you get excited about modern twists and international influences to these decadent dishes, there’s a legendary diner in Columbus that’s waiting for you.
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The 31 Best Columbus Diners
1. Tommy's Diner
When it comes to award-winning diners that Columbus has to offer, Tommy’s Diner is the one to beat. This beloved Franklinton neighborhood staple has offered the warmth that only family business can provide since 1989.
The Vibe
Fun and whimsical, with décor that seems to come straight from the 1950s. Shiny silver counters and barstools line one side while crimson leather booths line the other, all amidst the glow of electric neon lights on checkered floors.
What to Order
The eggs Benedict for brunch is a surefire winner at this favorite diner in Columbus. The French toast and country-fried steak and egg options are both great as well.
Tommy’s Diner | 914 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43222 | $$
2. Jack & Benny’s
A classic old-school diner in Columbus, Jack & Benny’s will remind you of home as soon as you step through the door. It’s the ideal spot for students from Ohio State University to recharge and prepare for their busy days ahead, together with other locals and diner fanatics.
The Vibe
This diner in Columbus is definitely cozy and laidback, with sports décor adorning the walls and light-blue bench booths lining the floor.
What to Order
The Gut Buster breakfast is the main highlight with the following ingredients: a stack of hashbrowns, potato pancake, bacon and more. The chicken breakfast burrito and chorizo scramble are also top contenders.
Jack & Benny’s | 2563 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202 | $
3. Stav’s Diner
The next diner to which locals in Columbus often flock is Stav’s Diner. Owned by Stavros Andronis, you can easily get your satisfying fix of classic American breakfast and lunch fare here.
The Vibe
As one of the best diners Columbus has to offer, the atmosphere is always bustling with conversation and good music in the background. Cream walls, colorful lighting and calm green accents make this a great place to start your day.
What to Order
If you’re really hungry, try the French toast which comes with two eggs and assorted breakfast meats. For those with a sweet tooth, the buttermilk pancakes are a fluffy treat.
Stav’s Diner | 2932 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43209 | $
4. Starliner Diner
This next diner near Columbus is known for its eclectic décor and award-winning menu of Cuban and Caribbean fare. With a wide array of dishes that are vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free, there’s something for everyone at Starliner Diner.
The Vibe
Lively and fun, with walls of celestial murals, a full bar and comfy dark booth seating that makes it easy to settle in and catch up with friends.
What to Order
For breakfast at this Columbus diner, try the Cuban French toast topped with powdered sugar and fruit. For lunch or dinner, dig into the Creole macaroni with Cajun cream sauce. For quick bites, Starliner also serves delicious happy-hour quesadillas.
Starliner Diner | 4121 Main St., Hilliard, OH 43026 | $$
5. Delaney’s Diner
With the goal of offering guests a friendly neighborhood spot in which to relax and grab a bite, locals and visitors alike love Delaney’s Diner. Owned by Westerville residents Jeff and Lisa Miller, this diner in Colombus now boasts four different locations.
The Vibe
Delaney’s is a welcoming diner that Columbus locals love visiting for its bright and chic atmosphere, complete with shining countertops and plush red booths in which to sit.
What to Order
The omelettes at Delaney's Diner are always a good choice, or try the signature PastaSalvi, a dish of egg noodles in a cream sauce that gets breaded and fried to perfection. Fun fact: this dish was revived by the owner at Delaney’s after its original home, Salvi’s Bistro, closed down.
Delaney’s Diner | Multiple Locations | $$
6. Café Creekside
When it comes to finding a cute diner near Columbus for your next casual breakfast or lunch, Café Creekside is the place to visit. Located in Old Gahanna, this family-owned spot has been around since 2007.
The Vibe
Wooden chairs and tables in a historical building create a laid-back atmosphere at this diner in Columbus, making it easy to catch up with friends over delicious food.
What to Order
Enjoy the eggs Benedict, comprising two poached eggs and crispy Canadian bacon on a toasted English muffin with Hollandaise sauce and redskin potatoes. The Big Nasty is another signature dish of breakfast staples, like potatoes, eggs and sausage.
Café Creekside | 53 Granville St., Gahanna, OH 43230 | $$
7. German Village Coffee Shop
While the name suggests otherwise, the German Village Coffee Shop is a beloved hole-in-the-wall traditional diner in Columbus. Open since 1981 in the neighborhood it was named after, German Village Coffee Shop offers breakfast and lunch fare every day of the week. That's what we call "reliability."
The Vibe
Simple and straight to the point, this diner in Columbus is a no-frills spot meant to serve delicious food that fills you up and keeps you warm, especially during Ohio's cold winters.
What to Order
Regulars swear by the fluffy hotcakes that can be customized with blueberries, pecans, chocolate chips and other sweet treats. House specials like the Western omelette and club sandwich are also worthy choices.
German Village Coffee Shop | 193 Thurman Ave., Columbus, OH 43206 | $
8. Cap City Fine Diner and Bar
Come one, come all, to Cap City Fine Diner and Bar. This diner in Columbus takes traditional American comfort food to another level with modern updates to give each dish an upscale twist.
The Vibe
This diner in Columbus is vibrant and lively, with a classic feel to it. Take a trip to the past with colorful retro décor and lighting as you dine at your table or red-cushion booth.
What to Order
Start with the blue cheese potato chips, a Columbus-specific take on a classic appetizer. For dinner, go for the Romano-crusted chicken which comes with buttered noodles in a smooth roasted tomato cream sauce.
Cap City Fine Diner and Bar | Multiple Locations | $$
9. DK Diner
Tucked away in Grandview Heights is our next diner in Columbus, DK Diner. With an outdoor patio, sports décor and endless doughnuts displayed on the shelves, your next visit here will be worth it.
The Vibe
Homey and simple, this is definitely a diner that Columbus locals know of as a hidden gem. The atmosphere is calm and casual.
What to Order
Try the breakfast burrito, which includes three scrambled eggs, sausage and more, in a flour tortilla with fresh salsa. When it comes to sandwiches, the Gladdington is a popular choice featuring eggs, smoked bacon and Sriracha mayo on a buttery brioche bun. For something sweet, one of the many displayed doughnuts will certainly satisfy your craving.
DK Diner | 1715 W. Third Ave., Grandview Heights, OH 43212 | $$
10. Hamburger Inn Diner
This next diner near Columbus is a little less than an hour away from the city center, out in Delaware. Since 1932, Hamburger Inn Diner has been serving up American comfort food alongside its vintage soda-shop counter.
The Vibe
This diner near Columbus exudes a laid-back, casual atmosphere. Its communal seating style also helps to foster a heartwarming sense of togetherness and camaraderie.
What to Order
Any of the burgers, all of which are surefire winners here. Each one is served with 100% Black Angus beef and fresh buns. For dessert, make sure to grab yourself a fresh signature cinnamon bun, baked in-house every time.
Hamburger Inn Diner | 16 N. Sandusky St., Delaware, OH 43015 | $$
11. Tio’s Diner
This next diner in Columbus serves up both traditional American and New Mexican brunch fare. Tio’s Diner is family-owned and deeply inspired by home cooking methods, creating a space that offers some of the most comforting food in the city.
The Vibe
Fun and retro, with themed décor and bright-red seating.
What to Order
Try the huevos con tocino, featuring fluffy scrambled eggs served with bacon, beans and soft flour tortillas. If you’re craving something more, try Tio’s Special. This house special includes a ribeye steak and chicken breast cooked with shrimp and mushrooms on top of rice.
Tio’s Diner | 1881 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43207 | $
12. Grill & Skillet Diner
When it comes to classic diners in Columbus, one of your best bets is Grill & Skillet Diner. With a cash-only policy and an endless supply of all-day breakfast fare, it’s easy to feel like you’ve taken a step back to simpler times.
The Vibe
This diner in Columbus is small on the outside yet quaint and surprisingly roomy on the inside. With cozy brown leather seating and checkered floors, you’ll feel right at home.
What to Order
Check out the current pancake special which features rotating flavors. The hearty country breakfast is also a classic combination of buttermilk biscuits, eggs and your choice of savory hash browns or grits.
Grill & Skillet Diner | 2924 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43209 | $
13. HangOverEasy
HangOverEasy is as fun and modern as its name suggests. This diner in Columbus offers refreshing brunch options with innovative names and flavors. It’s hip at heart, fostering community in an effortless way.
The Vibe
This diner in Columbus pulls retro diners into the present with its wall of supersized Batman comics and bright and airy lighting amid classic red seats.
What to Order
The Hoe Benny is a modern take on eggs Benedict, with avocado, chorizo, eggs, queso and cheddar on a toasted English muffin. For a simpler take, try the Frog Eyes — eggs in your preferred style with gravy on fresh-baked biscuits.
HangOverEasy | Multiple Locations | $$
14. HoneyDip Donuts & Diner
As one of the best diners in Columbus for doughnuts and fresh fluffy pancakes, Honey Dip Donuts & Diner serves them straight off the griddle. There’s simply nothing like a classic diner breakfast and a sweet doughnut treat to finish.
The Vibe
This no-frills diner in Columbus gets straight to the point. While the inside seems unassuming, you’ll be entertained by the walls of fascinating memorabilia.
What to Order
The breakfast burrito is always a sound option and features sausage, hash browns, fresh eggs and more. For those with a sweet tooth, go for the house-made chocolate chip pancakes or, of course, the many fresh doughnut options.
Honey Dip Donuts & Diner | 4480 Kenny Road, Columbus, OH 43220 | $
15. Buckeye Donuts
Boasting the best doughnuts of Columbus, Buckeye Donuts offers delicious doughnuts alongside American breakfast fare. This diner in Columbus first opened in 1969, making it a historic place to visit when you’re craving your next donut fix.
The Vibe
As a 24-hour diner Columbus residents love to visit, Buckeye offers a welcoming atmosphere at any hour of the day. Its exposed brick walls and bright-red accents help keep things lively yet cozy throughout your snack or meal.
What to Order
If you’re feeling adventurous, go for the red velvet doughnut with cream cheese. Otherwise, a classic breakfast sandwich is sure to satisfy.
Buckeye Donuts | Multiple Locations | $
16. Golden Donuts & Diner
Diners in Columbus like Golden Donuts & Diner uphold the classic traditions that every diner should. It's a comfortable place for friends and family to gather and catch up, with vinyl album covers for wall décor and doughnuts galore in display cases.
The Vibe
This diner in Columbus strikes an eclectic and cool vibe throughout. The sky-blue seating and yellow walls add a pop of friendly color to the atmosphere.
What to Order
A classic, unique Golden special to try is the apple fritter French toast, which comes with eggs and sausage patties. It effortlessly balances sweet and savory flavors.
Golden Donuts & Diner | 1928 Lockbourne Road, Columbus, OH 43207 | $
17. Fitzy’s Old Fashioned Diner
Next up is Fitzy’s Old Fashioned Diner, a cheerful, relaxed spot in the city for good diner food. While it was once among the classic 24-hour diners Columbus locals enjoyed frequenting, Fitzy’s now offers its decadent meals during daytime hours only.
The Vibe
This diner in Columbus is spacious and full of relaxed personality, from its black-and-white checkered floors to the records and dreamy murals that dot its walls.
What to Order
For lunch, try the Reuben sandwich which comes with house-made corned beef, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut on marble rye bread. The French toast is a tasty treat that arrives with fresh syrup.
Fitzy’s Old Fashioned Diner | 1487 Schrock Road, Columbus, OH 43229 | $
18. The Mercury Diner
This next diner Columbus has to offer is The Mercury Diner. Considering the intergalactic theme, it only makes sense that the food here is out of this world. With a slicked-back atmosphere and starry night walls and seating, it’s clear that this diner in Columbus knows how to create an ethereal energy.
The Vibe
The cute and different change of pace from traditional diners makes a bite to eat here one of many great date ideas in Columbus.
What to Order
Try the Big Bang, a full plate of biscuits, sunny-side-up eggs, home fries, cheddar and your choice of sausage links or bacon. The Mercury Cobb Salad is also a delicious balance of greens and proteins.
The Mercury Diner | 621 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43206 | $$
19. Olympic Diner
Our next diner near Columbus is a family-owned restaurant that serves up fresh American breakfast and lunch fare sourced consistently from local vendors. Locals know that Olympic Diner is the place to visit for a hearty meal.
The Vibe
Bright, cheery and casual, with muted brown seating and Greek-themed murals on the walls. Like any reliable diner in Columbus, nostalgic memorabilia can be seen hung in frames around the establishment.
What to Order
Try the popular Hungry Man breakfast, a classic combination of three eggs, ham, hickory-smoked bacon, sausage and fresh-cut home fries that’s sure to fill you up.
Olympic Diner | 5454 Roberts Road, Hilliard, OH 43026 | $$
20. George’s Beechwold Diner
This next diner in Columbus on the list is a warm, welcoming family-friendly establishment in between Clintonville and Beechwold. Having been a neighborhood staple for years, George’s Beechwold Diner is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones.
The Vibe
No-frills and cheerful, with friendly service and walls of nostalgic décor.
What to Order
As with many of the finest diners in the city, George's Beechwold Diner is a must-visit if you're on the hunt for the best breakfast in Columbus. The French toast is a classic choice and comes on thick Texas toast, dusted with sweet cinnamon sugar. For a savory lunch, try the decked-out California club sandwich that comes with ham, turkey, roast beef and cheese on a pretzel bun with the works.
George’s Beechwold Diner | 4408 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214 | $$
21. Paul’s Fifth Avenue Restaurant & Catering
For classic American breakfast fare with an Italian spin, head to Paul’s Fifth Avenue Restaurant & Catering. This Columbus diner is a historic staple in the city, first opened in 1966. Along with delicious meals, it also caters for events.
The Vibe
This diner in Columbus is casual and simple, with private booth seating and a creative chalkboard wall.
What to Order
To start, try the hearty and comforting Italian wedding soup. You also can’t go wrong with one of the many omelette options, especially the chicken Charlie. If you don’t care for eggs, Paul’s also offers Callahans — the omelette ingredients, minus the eggs, atop fresh home fries.
Paul’s Fifth Avenue Restaurant & Catering | 1565 W. Fifth Ave., Columbus, OH 43212 | $
22. Sloopy’s Diner
A classic 50s-style diner in Columbus, Sloopy’s Diner can be found at the campus center of Ohio State University. You’ll find that it’s a popular hub for students taking a break from class to revel in music from decades past and indulge in comfort food to fuel their busy days.
The Vibe
Retro and nostalgic, with a line of casual booth seating and shiny red countertops at the bar. This is definitely the kind of place where memories are made.
What to Order
The rotating menu often offers classic comfort dishes like chicken fingers, French toast with light powdered sugar and homemade milkshakes to wash it all down.
Sloopy’s Diner | 1739 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201 | $
23. Jenny’s Diner
Introducing Jenny’s Diner, a newer addition to the Clintonville neighborhood. This diner in Columbus is designed and led by long-time server Jenny Dials and incorporates everything that makes a good diner — fast and friendly service, good food and bottomless coffee.
The Vibe
Bright and welcoming, this diner is decorated with black and white seating, bold red accents and a classic open kitchen.
What to Order
Try the Tex Mex scramble with chorizo sausage or the eggs Benedict. For dessert, polish things off with a handmade milkshake. Jenny’s also serves weekend house specials that pay homage to Dials’ Mexican roots, like tamales and huevos rancheros.
Jenny’s Diner | 4768 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214 | $
24. Galena Diner
You'll find Galena Diner near Columbus city center. This cozy family-owned restaurant is run by Culinary Institute of America graduates Matthew Sherman and Nicholas Ridenour, who you can be sure will deliver delicious homemade American fare to your table.
The Vibe
Rustic and quaint, complete with indoor and patio seating. Locals swear by this diner in Columbus, as is evident by the regular weekend crowds.
What to Order
For breakfast, go for the loaded kielbasa scramble. For dinner, try the Gerber chicken tender platter with French fries and a dipping sauce. The cornmeal-crusted walleye is also delicious and comes with a crispy panko coating and Cajun rémoulade.
Galena Diner | 13 W. Columbus St., Galena, OH 43021 | $$
25. The Pancake House
If you’re looking for a fun and lively dining experience, visit The Pancake House. This family diner near Columbus has been serving up classic American breakfast and lunch fare since 2009.
The Vibe
Both locations of this Columbus diner are bright and straightforward with comfy booth seats and classic bars that invite friendly conversation. Both are great for casual dates and relaxing with friends after a long week.
What to Order
For a filling savory option, try the signature house-made chorizo skillet. It features homemade chorizo with shredded cheddar and eggs in the style of your choice, on top of fresh home fries. If you have a sweet tooth, the Nutella and banana crêpes are sure to satisfy.
The Pancake House | Multiple Locations | $$
26. 3 Brothers Diner
At 3 Brothers Diner you can expect a delicious mix of Mexican, American and Cuban cuisine. Located in Grove City, this diner near Columbus was originally opened by three brothers from Oaxaca, Mexico in 2017. This makes it a relatively new diner with unique flavors that keep customers coming back for more.
The Vibe
Spacious and inviting, with intricate wooden windows hanging on the walls and colorful décor everywhere.
What to Order
The breakfast enchiladas are a good choice, as are the famous fish tacos and Cajun shrimp tacos. For something sweet, try the signature cubed French toast which comes with strawberries, bananas and powdered sugar.
3 Brothers Diner | 3090 Southwest Blvd., Grove City, OH 43123 | $$
27. Ari’s Diner
Next on our list of diners in Columbus is Ari’s Diner, family-owned and serving up fresh food, every time. Ari's Diner keeps things simple with a focused menu of American fare with Greek and Italian influences.
The Vibe
This indie diner in Columbus has a familiar, no-frills energy to it, making it a favorite among locals. With checkered floors, classic chalkboard menus and friendly service all around, it makes sense why some consider Ari’s Diner to be among the best restaurants in Columbus.
What to Order
For the full experience, try the house breakfast which comes with eggs, chicken and gyro meat, with home fries and pita, alongside a creamy Cajun and tzatziki sauce. The Reuben is also a good choice.
Ari’s Diner | 1425 Frank Road, Columbus, OH 43223 | $
28. Grandview Diner
Tucked away by a gas station is Grandview Diner, a truly special diner in Columbus that prides itself on fresh American breakfast and lunch fare with some of the friendliest service in the city to boot.
The Vibe
A hidden gem that’s easy to miss, sporty décor and fun neon signs give life to the calm atmosphere inside. This is a diner in Columbus that locals like to visit on the regular.
What to Order
Try the steak quesadilla with fries for a kick of delicious flavor. The double cheeseburger is also a worthy contender, as are the tacos.
Grandview Diner | 648 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43215 | $$
29. Cherry Street Diner
Named after the street it’s on, Cherry Street Diner is a diner near Columbus that captures the homey feeling of a good small-town spot for locals and visitors alike. Stepping into Cherry Street Diner is like stepping back in time for a completely different experience.
The Vibe
Rustic and cozy, there's a nostalgic air here that helps to make it one of the best diners near Columbus. The toy train on the ceiling helps add a unique touch, too.
What to Order
Try the classic breakfast with ham, eggs and toast made to order. The Western omelette is also delicious and comes with a side of home fries and toast.
Cherry Street Diner | 29 Cherry St., Ashville, OH 43103 | $
30. Zorba’s Diner
The humble exterior of Zorba’s Diner is nothing compared to the vibrant menu and spacious interior it has to offer. From classic American cuisine to the excitement of Mexican fare, this diner in Columbus offers an inspiring variety of dishes that incorporate both.
The Vibe
Casual and simple, with spacious wooden seating and unique oval lights. Zorba’s is all about counter-style ordering, with an extensive menu that ensures there’s something for everyone.
What to Order
Try the huevos rancheros, which come with two eggs atop a fried tortilla, ranchero salsa and cheese. The chicken and waffles are also a solid bet.
Zorba’s Diner | 3415 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43213 | $$
31. Dashing Diner Uptown
A little less than an hour away from Downtown Columbus is Dashing Diner Uptown. Décor-wise, this is a teal dream of a diner near Columbus. Owned by Tiffany Hollis, this restaurant has grown to be a staple in the neighborhood.
The Vibe
Fun and nostalgic with a defined 50s flair, this diner near Columbus is full of antiques and retro memorabilia to help solidify its theme of decades gone by.
What to Order
Try the daily specials, all of which are made fresh from scratch. The French toast is always a good choice, along with the savory bacon burger.
Dashing Diner Uptown | 16 S. Main St., Johnstown, OH 43031 | $
Learn To Cook Columbus Foods
A visit to a diner in Columbus at any time of the day is always a great experience, but sometimes it pays to cook at home. Exploring different cooking classes in Columbus can help expand your knowledge of the unique techniques and flavors that make this city famous, whether they were created at a classic diner in Columbus, an upmarket restaurant or elsewhere. Whether it’s Pasta Salvi or another Columbus-specific creation, exploring recipes through classes with expert chefs can help foster more knowledge on what makes this city great. And of course, it may even lead to more inspiration in your own kitchen.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
When you’re craving American comfort food, there’s no better place to visit than a diner in Columbus. And with the many options available today, from small-town diners to popular chains, most still family-owned and all with great heart and equally friendly service, it’s hard to go wrong.
From brunch fare, like French toast and eggs Benedict, to dishes inspired by flavors across the border, like huevos rancheros or a hearty chicken gyro, there’s a diner in Columbus to suit everyone’s taste. With historic details and such heartwarmingly nostalgic décor, it’s easy to step into the past and learn more about the city’s roots.
For even more ways to explore Columbus and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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