Columbus has always been a city that knows how to have a good time, and these vintage photos prove it. Long before craft cocktails and trendy breweries took over, bars and saloons were the heart of the city’s social scene. These spots weren’t just places to grab a drink—they were where communities gathered, stories were shared, and history was made.
Let’s raise a glass to some of Columbus’ most iconic watering holes of the past.
Charles H. Hayes Saloon
This place had that classic early 1900s saloon charm—polished wood, dim lighting, and an air of importance. Located at 1405 Livingston Avenue, the Charles H. Hayes Saloon was where locals gathered to sip on Hoster’s beer, a Columbus-brewed favorite. This snapshot from around 1910 captures four sharply dressed men, clearly aware they were living in the golden age of saloons.
Der Munich
A true hidden gem, Der Munich was a basement beer hall that screamed old-world charm. Located at 26 W Gay Street, this German Rathskeller had stone walls, cozy round tables, and an atmosphere perfect for late-night pints and deep conversations. If these walls could talk, they’d probably have some wild stories.
Stadt Lindenau
At the corner of Thurman Avenue and South 4th Street, Stadt Lindenau started as a bustling saloon owned by Ernst Seufer of Hoster Brewing. Over the years, it transformed into Barrick’s Pharmacy and later, a confectionary. This photo from 1905-06 captures two young men casually leaning against a streetlight, as if frozen in time.
Boyd’s Cafe
Boyd’s Cafe wasn’t just a bar—it was an experience. With its grand wooden saloon doors, intricate stained glass, and an epic, sprawling bar, this Italian Village hotspot at 692 N. High Street was the definition of vintage elegance. Imagine the countless toasts, first dates, and bar fights this place witnessed.
M. Trope Saloon
Mendel Trope’s grocery store and the adjacent saloon at 344 East Mound Street offered the best of both worlds—grab your groceries and a drink all in one stop. Owned by John Baltz and Charles Amend, this 1909 snapshot captures everyday life in a time when bars and businesses seamlessly coexisted.
First and Last Chance Saloon
Two men and a woman stand proudly in front of the First and Last Chance Saloon, and honestly? They look like they could walk into a modern-day restaurant opening and fit right in. This place, owned by Salvatore Presutti, eventually paved the way for Columbus staples like TAT Restaurant and Presutti’s Villa.
Kings Rose Garden Restaurant
Kings Rose Garden had all the vintage dive bar essentials: a classic 7Up sign, a shuffleboard table, and a vibe that said, “Come in, stay awhile.” This corner of East Beck and Mohawk Streets has housed plenty of legendary spots over the years, including Lindey’s, proving that great bars never truly fade—they just evolve.
Jai Lai
Jai Lai was *the* place to be if you wanted a little luxury with your nightlife. Founded in 1933 by Jasper E. Wottring, this spot was known for its plush seating, liquor-lined walls, and even taxidermy decor (because why not?). It went through ownership changes and eventually closed, but its legacy still looms large in Columbus’ bar history.
