Every once in a while, you stumble into a place that makes you want to kick yourself for not visiting sooner.
That was me at Understory, the restaurant and bar tucked inside the historic Open Air School in Old North Columbus. It opened a few years ago, but even though I’m late to the party, I think it still deserves some balloons and confetti.
First off: the building is absolutely gorgeous.
Sunlight was streaming through the oversized windows when I walked in, and it honestly felt magical. The 1927 building once served as a school for kids at risk of tuberculosis, which explains all the big windows, breezy gathering spaces, and its connection to the outdoors. Today, it’s been beautifully restored into a mixed-use hub with a coffee shop, lounge, fitness space, and the Commons restaurant downstairs.
That’s where I had lunch, though I couldn’t resist the massive stone patio that overlooks the Olentangy Trail.
Sitting there felt peaceful and almost transportive, like a hidden getaway tucked right into the city. I know that sounds hyperbolic, but genuinely, after a busy morning, it was so nice to sit out there and enjoy a little bit of nature in the city.
The food? Fantastic.
We ordered the Harvest Burger and a buffalo chicken sandwich, and both were winners. The buffalo chicken sandwich, served on a ciabatta roll, was especially memorable — just the right amount of kick, balanced, and delicious. The fries also deserve a shoutout: crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and seriously addictive.
Beyond the food, Understory has layers.
Upstairs, the Lounge opens later in the day with panoramic views and a craft cocktail menu that rotates seasonally. There’s also Emmett’s Coffee, which I’ve had at another location and was thrilled to see here. It’s the kind of place where you can meet a friend for a casual lunch, sip an old-fashioned while watching the sunset, or grab coffee before hopping on the trail.
Understory is one of those rare spots that makes you feel like Columbus has secrets worth uncovering. Whether you’re here for brunch, dinner, drinks, or just to bask on that gorgeous patio, it’s absolutely worth the visit. Even if, like me, you’re embarrassingly late to discovering it.
