Originally published 8/15/17. Updated 1/6/19.
Because we just can’t get enough of a good city diner and neither can you.
There’s something about the diner. It’s more than just a casual eating experience, there’s a whole culture that surrounds the vintage American eateries. From the very first ding of the brass bell at the door to sliding into your favorite plush corner booth, and all that shiny linoleum in between. You can’t help but smile at the warmth and familiarity that makes up the atmosphere of every diner across the country.
Columbus has its fair share of grease spoons and local dives, it’s true. But right now, we pay tribute to the best of Columbus’ diners, pure and unfiltered. So tuck that napkin down your collar and saddle up, here’s a list of the city’s best dining institutions.
Stav’s Diner
Stav’s is basically the crown jewel of Eastside diners. A small place with a big following, the food here is infamously delicious. With amazing dishes and a pretty killer layout, this place is practically Instagram ammo for anyone looking to load up.
Where: 2932 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43209
Where: 2932 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43209
Dan’s Drive In Diner
Dan’s Drive-In is a freakin awesome little spot. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t let you forget that you’re in a diner, with red, white, and black decore, and a little too much memorabilia on the walls. You can’t go wrong with a classic breakfast at Dan’s.
Where: 1881 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207
Where: 1881 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207
Cap City Fine Diner and Bar
Cap City still has that classic diner feel but with a more upscale taste. Each plate is meant to impress and wow you but still offers a healthy portion of the meat and potatoes. It’s an elegant and tasty take on all the comfort foods we love.
Where: 1301 Stoneridge Drive Columbus, OH 43230, 1299 Olentangy River Road Columbus, OH 43212, and 6644 Riverside Drive Dublin, OH 43017
Where: 1301 Stoneridge Drive Columbus, OH 43230, 1299 Olentangy River Road Columbus, OH 43212, and 6644 Riverside Drive Dublin, OH 43017
German Village Coffee Shop
Perhaps the most highly suggested diner in Columbus, this coffee shop has called German Village home since the early ’80s. Be sure to check out their daily specials for awesome options like Johnny Marzetti and Beef Tips and Noodles.
Where: 193 Thurman Ave, Columbus, OH 43206
Where: 193 Thurman Ave, Columbus, OH 43206
Philco Bar + Diner
Previously Phillip’s Coney Island, Philco is now owned by the same owners as Club 185 and The Little Palace, folks who know how to do diners right. You can stop in any time of the day and get a delicious breakfast served right up.
Where: 747 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Where: 747 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Hangover Easy
Any place that openly advertises itself as great hangover food is going to be okay by my book. Hangover Easy offers a creative and edgy menu chock-full of dishes sure to soothe what ails you.
Where: 1646 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Where: 1646 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Nancy’s Home Cooking
Not only is Nancy’s a great place to stop in for a home cooked meal but it’s also staffed by good and caring people. Nancy’s offers a Pay it Forward program that allows customers to donate 5 bucks. The money goes to homeless youth or anyone who happens to stop in for a warm plate regardless of money. It’s a system that seems to be working wonderfully.
Where: 3133 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Where: 3133 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Jack and Benny’s
With three locations now open in the city, Jack and Benny’s popularity has been growing near exponentially. With a location Downtown, in the Old North, and Dublin, it’s easier than ever to get your J & B fix from your side of town.
Where: 2160 W Case Road Columbus, Ohio, 2563 N High St. Columbus, Ohio, and 12 E Broad St. Columbus, Ohio
Where: 2160 W Case Road Columbus, Ohio, 2563 N High St. Columbus, Ohio, and 12 E Broad St. Columbus, Ohio
Tommy’s Diner
Tommy’s has a long, rich history in the Franklinton area, serving a loyal fan base of customers. They’ve earned multiple awards for Best Lunch and Best Breakfast from sources both nationally and locally. If you want to see what all the buzz is about, just stop in and take a gander at the menu.
Where: 914 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43222
Where: 914 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43222
George’s Beechwold Diner
Speaking of Tommy’s— George, the owner of the Beechwold diner, was a one time employee of Tommy himself. An immigrant from Albania, George worked his way up from busboy to line-cook, where he perfected his craft and learned a true passion for cooking. George purchased his own diner following the footsteps of his mentor, and he’s been serving up some killer dishes ever since.
Where: 4408 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43214
Where: 4408 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43214
