The cravings are real, but restaurant meals can start to feel like a splurge. A new program from Columbus Independents is offering a way to stretch your dining budget while still showing love to locally owned restaurants across Central Ohio.

The organization has launched a discounted gift certificate sale that gives diners 30% off at participating restaurants. Gift certificates are available in $25 and $50 increments and are valid for five years, so there’s plenty of time to use them. Whether you’re planning a date night, a long brunch with friends, or just want a reason to leave the house, these certificates make it a little easier to say yes.

Columbus Independents represents a wide mix of locally owned spots, and the gift certificate program reflects that variety. The participating restaurants range from casual neighborhood favorites and brunch staples to breweries, bakeries, and higher-end dining destinations. You’ll find places scattered throughout Columbus as well as in Dublin, Westerville, and Powell, covering just about every mood and appetite.

How Does It Work?

The gift certificate sales will run quarterly, with limited quantities available each time. Restaurants choose how many certificates to offer per sale, and the proceeds help cover their membership dues to the organization.

The model is inspired by a similar program that has worked well for Cleveland Independents, offering a practical way to support local restaurants during slower seasons.

For diners, the appeal is simple.

You save money now, lock in meals for later, and get an easy excuse to revisit favorite spots or finally check out somewhere new. For restaurants, it’s a chance to bring people through the door and stay connected to a network that advocates for independent businesses.

Gift certificates are available through the Columbus Independents website, where you can browse the full list of participating restaurants and purchase directly. Quantities are limited, so some restaurants may sell out quickly.

Whether you treat them as future dinner plans, easy gifts, or a reminder to explore more of the local food scene, the program is a small but meaningful way to keep Columbus dining vibrant through the winter months and beyond.

The post A Budget-Friendly Way to Support Columbus Restaurants (and Eat Really Well) appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Now, that consistency and care is getting national recognition again. Dan the Baker was named a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Bakery, marking the second year in a row the beloved Columbus spot has landed on the prestigious list.

This year, Dan the Baker is the only Columbus chef or restaurant to receive a James Beard nomination, putting the spotlight squarely on the city’s bread scene. The bakery first opened in 2013 and has been serving specialty loaves, buns, cookies, and pastries ever since, all from its cozy Ridge Street location.

The nomination is another reminder that Columbus continues to earn its place on the national food map. With recent nods from Condé Nast Traveler and Food & Wine, and ongoing efforts to champion local chefs, it is clear that the city’s culinary moment is still going strong.

James Beard Award finalists will be announced March 31, with winners celebrated in June in Chicago. For now, it is a well-deserved moment to toast one of Columbus’ most incredible bakeries.

The post Columbus Favorite Dan The Baker Named A 2026 James Beard Semifinalist appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

In my humble opinion, pastries are just desserts masquerading as breakfast. And to be honest, I’m not mad about it. My love affair with cinnamon rolls started as a kid. My mom makes a mean cinnamon roll and we were treated to it on rare, quiet Saturday mornings when the five of us kids actually gave my mom time to bake.

I was also a frequent visitor to City Center Mall with my great aunt, who would almost always treat me to a visit to Cinnabon. It’s the most comforting of all breakfast pastries, and I have rarely said no to taking a bite or two from one. That’s why I feel so fortunate to live in Columbus, where there is no shortage of delicious, sticky cinnamon rolls and buns. Here are the best of the best.

Fox in the Snow

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I’ve never had a bad pastry at Fox in the Snow. That being said, I’ve never had anything there as delicious as their cinnamon roll. It is huge, heavy on the icing, and it goes perfectly with their New Orleans iced coffee. In my experience, it feeds two people easily, so take a friend and enjoy!
Location: Italian Village, 1031 N. Fourth Street, Columbus, OH 43201, German Village, 210 Thurman Ave., Columbus, OH 43206, and New Albany, 160 West Main Street, New Albany, OH 43054

Kittie’s Cakes

When I first thought about a closer look at the best cinnamon rolls in Columbus, I knew instantly that Kittie’s had to be on this list. Of all of the cinnamon rolls around town, these perfectly capture that nostalgia of grabbing Cinnabon with my aunt, except they’re even more delicious. They look and taste exactly how you’d expect the perfect cinnamon roll to taste, with more of a glaze than a thick icing, and I love them.
Location: German Village, 495 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215 and Bexley, 2424 E Main St. Bexley, OH 4320

The Hamburger Inn

When someone first suggested a place with “hamburger” in the name for delicious cinnamon rolls, I thought they were joking. But the joke would be on me if I left these amazing treats off this list. And yes, technically The Hamburger Inn is in Delaware, not Columbus. But trust me when I say it’s worth the drive for one of these bad boys. In addition to being a restaurant, they’re also a bakery, so they make everything in house, from cinnamon rolls to hamburger buns.
Location: 16 N Sandusky St, Delaware, OH 43015

IKEA

Don’t hate me for this, but there are three reasons I love going to IKEA. 1.) I love home goods. 2.) Meatballs. 3.) Their cinnamon rolls. I can’t explain it, but they are the most delightful treat and they make any trip to Polaris worth it. If you don’t believe me, just look at that guy with the mustache up there. He gets it.
Location: 1900 Ikea Way, Columbus, OH 43240

Pick’em Up Joe Coffee Co.

If you ever find yourself in Commercial Point, make a pit stop at Pick’em Up Joe Coffee Co. Their cinnamon rolls are perfectly soft, with just the right amount of gooey sweetness and a drizzle of icing that never overpowers the cinnamon. Bonus: pair it with one of their expertly crafted coffees, and you’ve got a little morning magic in a cup (and on a plate).
Location: 5 Main St., Commercial Point, OH 43116

Hilliard Station Baking Co.

Hilliard Station Baking Co. is proof that great things come in small-town packages. Their cinnamon rolls are warm, fluffy, and loaded with cinnamon sugar that makes you question if you actually need to eat breakfast ever again. It’s the kind of treat that makes you linger over your coffee a little longer than usual—and that’s exactly how mornings should be.
Location: 4036 Main St., Hilliard, OH 43026

The post Soft, Gooey, Iced-to-Perfection: Where to Find Columbus’ Best Cinnamon Rolls appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Belle’s Bread is tucked away in the Kenny Centre strip mall and it needs to be added to your “to try” list ASAP. The bakery serves up its French-inspired Japanese baked goods every day. The treats are made from scratch in-house by Belle’s team of 20 bakers.

I knew there was one specific item I wanted to try on the Belle’s Bread menu: Nutella Kitty. These adorable little pastries have been popping up in my Instagram feed for a while now and I couldn’t wait to get my paws on them. Sadly, I waited too long to get up to the bakery and they were already sold out when I arrived.

I was momentarily stunned, but then a fellow Belle’s customer chimed in. She told me that the real must-have item at the bakery wasn’t Nutella Kitty, but rather Curry Donuts. These curry-filled treats come with or without egg, but since my fellow bread enthusiast suggested that I give the Curry Egg Donut a shot, I decided to trust her judgment.

It was a fantastic decision. It’s probably the hardest pastry that I’ve ever had to describe, but if I was going to give it a shot, I’d say that it reminded me of a spicy scotch egg.

As I shopped, I tried to balance sweet and savory treats. To be honest, I could have tried every single thing in the shop if I’d had the time and the budget, but since I was forced to choose I threw a few more bread items into my basket and made my way to the checkout.

The bakery is very affordable, the food is incredible, and the service was outstanding. If you’re looking to treat the family to a delicious breakfast or dessert, Belle’s Bakery is the place to be. To plan your visit, check out the Belle’s Bread website.

The post Belle’s Bread Is A Delicious French-Inspired Japanese Bakery In A North Columbus Strip Mall appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

But before we hit the road, let’s rewind to the golden days of mid-century car culture in the United States, where drive-ins became synonymous with good food, good company, and the joy of hitting the open road.

The concept of drive-in restaurants took off in the 1920s, aligning perfectly with the rise of cars and the freedom they symbolized. These establishments became not just a place to grab a meal but an experience, a place you gathered with friends after the big game or took your date after the movies.

These iconic restaurants are forever immortalized in pop culture phenomenons like American Graffiti and Happy Days.

Although there are fewer and fewer drive-ins every year, Ohio proudly carries the torch, offering some of the best drive-in experiences in the country.

The Root Beer Stande

Jolly’s Drive in

Swensons

In 1934, Wesley “Pop” Swenson had a dream. He wanted to serve folks the best hamburger possible, insisting on freshly ground beef to ensure the best quality burgers. Nearly a century later, they’re still doing it. A favorite to many Ohioans, including the King himself Lebron James, Swensons is perhaps the most well known drive-in around. You can treat yourself to burgers, shakes, and all sorts of sides. But if it’s your first visit, start with the iconic Galley Boy. award-winning, signature double cheeseburger with two special sauces. Oh, and definitely get some onion rings.
Location: Various locations around Ohio
Website: Swensons Drive-Ins

Skyway Drive-In Restaurant

Dilly’s Drive-In

The post 5 Mouthwatering Drive-In Restaurants You Need To Visit In Ohio appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Amara, the latest concept from Columbus chef and restaurateur Josh Dalton, is set to open at 229 S. Civic Center Drive along the riverfront. The Mediterranean restaurant is slated for a spring 2026 debut, bringing a warm, culture-driven dining experience to one of Downtown’s most visible locations.

Designed as a place for gathering and shared meals, Amara takes its name from two roots: Sanskrit, meaning “immortal” or “eternal,” and Greek, meaning “unfading.” The name reflects the heart of the restaurant’s philosophy — food meant to nourish both body and soul, inspired by the coastal regions of the Mediterranean.

The menu will draw from Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Eastern Mediterranean, focusing on vibrant vegetables, olive oils, fresh herbs, grains, seafood, and thoughtfully prepared meats. Guests can expect a rotating selection of housemade dips, spreads, and warm, fresh-baked breads — a classic meze-style approach meant for sharing. The restaurant is also designed to be flexible, with handheld pitas for casual lunches near the Scioto Mile Fountain and shareable plates for relaxed evening meals.

The idea for Amara grew out of Dalton’s years of travel throughout the Mediterranean, where meals are unhurried and hospitality is inseparable from food and place.

“Every time I travel through the Mediterranean, I’m reminded of how good food can make you feel, physically and emotionally,” Dalton said. “It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the people, the ease, the generosity. With Amara, we want to bring that feeling back home to Columbus.”

Inside, Amara is expected to seat about 70 guests, with additional patio seating overlooking the Scioto Mile Fountain. The space is designed to feel refined yet approachable, anchored by the river and shaped around the idea that hospitality matters just as much as what’s on the plate.

Amara will also feature Dalton’s signature wine and cocktail program, including drinks designed for the Center City DORA, making it easy to sip and stroll along the riverfront.

A natural next step for a familiar Columbus name

For anyone who has followed Dalton’s career, Amara feels like a thoughtful evolution. From Veritas’ precise tasting menus to Speck Italian Eatery’s approachable handmade pasta, Dalton’s restaurants tend to reflect both technique and a strong sense of place. Rather than repeating concepts, each project is shaped by its setting and the experience he wants to create.

“With a premier location situated along the Scioto Mile, Amara will complement the many successes already in place along the Downtown riverfront,” said Amy Taylor, president of Downtown Columbus, Inc. “This restaurant will be a new gem in the growing Downtown restaurant scene.”

When Amara opens in spring 2026, it will add a long-anticipated dining anchor to the Scioto Mile — one centered on connection, generosity, and the simple pleasure of sharing a meal by the water.

The post Veritas Chef Josh Dalton Is Bringing Mediterranean Flavors To The Scioto Mile appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Columbus-based Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has teamed up with Netflix’s Bridgerton to release two limited-edition ice cream flavors inspired by the show’s fourth season. The flavors will roll out in two parts—one in January and one in February—mirroring the season’s split release schedule.

Queen Charlotte Sponge Cake Arrives First

The first flavor, Queen Charlotte Sponge Cake, launches on January 15 in Jeni’s scoop shops and online. It features brown sugar and almond buttercream ice cream layered with raspberry rose jam and pieces of honey sponge cake. The ice cream is lightly tinted lavender, a subtle nod to the queen’s signature style.

It’s rich, dessert-forward, and unmistakably indulgent—very much in line with Jeni’s love of layered flavors and unexpected textures.

Earl Grey Crème Brûlée Follows in February

The second flavor, Earl Grey Crème Brûlée, will be released online February 9 and in scoop shops on February 12. This one leans into classic tea flavors, combining a salted custard base with notes of bergamot and pockets of burnt sugar candy for a crisp, caramelized finish.

It’s inspired by the show’s ever-present tea rituals, but the flavor stands on its own whether you’re a Bridgerton fan or not.

A Limited-Time Collaboration

Jeni’s says the collaboration was inspired by the visual richness and indulgent spirit of the Regency era, with the goal of creating flavors that feel luxurious without being over-the-top. Both flavors will be available for a limited time, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.

You can find more details and release updates at jenis.com/bridgerton.

The post Jeni’s Is Releasing Two Bridgerton-Inspired Ice Cream Flavors This Winter appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

You don’t need a plane ticket or a long weekend, just an open table and a little curiosity. A new restaurant can become your go-to spot without you even realizing it, or push you to try a cuisine you’ve never ordered before. Over the course of a year, those small decisions add up, quietly shaping how a city eats.

In 2025, Columbus gave us plenty of opportunities to do exactly that. From long-awaited openings and revived neighborhood favorites to bakeries, cafes, and bars that quickly found their people, the past year added dozens of new reasons to go out to eat.

Whether you checked out every opening as it happened or missed more than a few along the way, this is a look back at the bars and restaurants that opened in Columbus in 2025. Plus, it’s a great reminder of which ones are still waiting for you in 2026.

Restaurants & Full-Service Dining

House of Creole (Short North)

Cleveland-born Cajun and Southern comfort arrived in the Short North with shrimp and grits, blackened salmon, and bold cocktails.

El Rey (New Albany)

Taking over the former Local Cantina space, El Rey brought casual Mexican fare, grilled meats, and tequila-forward drinks to the East Side.

Bar Italia (Easton)

From the Lindey’s team, this Easton stunner proved mall-adjacent dining can still feel transportive, with handmade pasta and polished Italian vibes.

Chef-O-Nette (Upper Arlington)

A true Columbus comeback story. This nearly 70-year-old diner reopened with its charm fully intact: swivel stools, pancakes, and nostalgia galore.

Fogo de Chão (Polaris)

The Brazilian steakhouse finally landed in Columbus, bringing tableside churrasco, endless sides, and meat sweats to Polaris.

Osaka Ton Kotsu (Downtown)

Columbus’ only restaurant dedicated entirely to Japanese tonkatsu, serving crispy pork cutlets with rice, cabbage, and imported ingredients.

Mezcla (Italian Village)

Taking over the former Market IV space, Mezcla debuted a Latin fusion menu that quickly became one of the city’s hardest reservations to snag.

Bars, Breweries & Drink-Forward Spots

Campfire Brewing (Westerville)

A backyard brewing hobby turned community-focused taproom, built around good beer and good company.

Astra Rooftop (Downtown)

Replacing Lumin Sky Bar, Astra leaned into drama with skyline views, flaming tomahawk steaks, and a full-on rooftop party atmosphere.

Coffee Shops & Cafés

Ravello’s Coffee (Italian Village)

A mobile concept turned brick-and-mortar, tucked inside Daily Bar with sleek design and espresso-forward menus.

Begin Cafe (Westerville)

Brooklyn-inspired, cozy, and design-forward, this Uptown Westerville cafe quickly became a neighborhood favorite.

Ciao Cafe GV (German Village)

Espresso, gelato, and affogatos galore — right next door to Fox in the Snow.

Bakeries, Desserts & Sweet Treats

Rose Dough Donuts (Clintonville)

Playful, seasonal donuts (think Peach Basil-Lime and Raspberry Sugar) with a grab-and-go model that sells out fast.

The Mochi Shop (Bethel Road)

Columbus’ OG mochi donut makers opened their first storefront, pairing chewy donuts with coffee and daifuku.

Love Riley Cakes (North Columbus)

After training in London, Riley Harris brought elegant, vintage-inspired cakes and pastries to her first storefront.

Scoops with Smiles (Groveport)

A mission-driven, Black-owned ice cream shop focused on community and inclusivity.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Miss a few of these? You’re not alone.

Some of 2025’s openings are still flying under the radar, and some haven’t even hit their stride yet. If you’re looking for new spots to try this year, this list doubles as a ready-made dining bucket list for 2026!

The post Columbus 2025 Dining Recap: The Restaurants, Bars, And Cafés That Opened Last Year appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

In the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, more than 757,000 voters cast their ballots, and the result? A delicious surprise for anyone who still thinks the Midwest is just casseroles and cornfields (though, let’s be honest, we love those too).

Coming in at No. 7, Columbus proved once again that its food scene is nothing short of show-stopping, soul-warming, and occasionally screamingly creative.

A City Feeding the Masses… Spectacularly

According to Condé Nast, Columbus’s culinary charm lies in its adventurous blend:

• James Beard Award-nominated Agni, where Chef Avishar Barua has built a fiery, inventive menu that earned national attention (including a spot on Bon Appétit’s 20 Best Restaurants of 2024).
• Local favorites like Ray Ray’s Hog Pit, because sometimes the only correct answer is slow-smoked meat and a whole lot of napkins.
• The never-not-iconic Buckeye Donuts, open since 1969 and fueled mostly by powdered sugar and pure Midwestern joy.

But what really sets Columbus apart, according to the voters, is its robust migrant community, which has infused the city with some of the country’s most exciting Vietnamese, Somali, and Kenyan food. Whether you’re slurping pho or digging into a fiery plate of ugali, the flavors here are bold, global, and proudly rooted in the people who call the city home.

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The Midwest: Quietly Becoming a Culinary Powerhouse

Columbus wasn’t the only Midwestern star on the list—this region is basically the Beyoncé of underrated food destinations.

• Milwaukee (#3) made it into the top three, proving it offers much more than beer and brats (though it still does those exceptionally well).
• Chicago (#4), the perennial culinary heavyweight, continues to be the place where dreams come true—especially pizza dreams, hot dog dreams, and Michelin-star dreams.
• Even Lexington, Kentucky (#6) is showing off, serving up bourbon-kissed cuisine that would make any horse proud.

Looks like the heartland is officially the stomach-land, too.

Who Beat Columbus?

Columbus proudly sits at #7, right behind Lexington and just ahead of Santa Fe. And the top spot?
That honor went to Oakland, California (#1), a city Condé Nast says has taco trucks dishing out some of the nation’s best birria.

This isn’t Columbus’s first time in the spotlight. The city placed 8th last year, and it seems like whatever the chefs in town are doing is working, because we’re climbing the ranks each year.

Whether you’re a local who already knows the magic of a late-night Buckeye Donut, or a traveler who thinks “flyover country” might just be your next delicious detour, get out there and enjoy something delicious. You can check out the full list from Conde Nast here.

The post Conde Nast Says Columbus Is A Top Food City And We Fully Agree appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

The Columbus food scene is one of the best things about this city. We’ve got so many fantastic restaurants, bars, and breweries, and it feels like there is always something new to try out.

From delicious, revolving sushi to a delightful sandwich shop, there’s a lot to check out.

Have fun exploring the city’s new restaurants this month. Be sure to tag us on Instagram (@columbusnavigator) or use the hashtag #columbusnavigator. We can’t wait to hear about your adventures.

Dim Sum Asian Bistro

About: From the creators of Ty Ginger Asian Bistro comes Dim Sum Asian Bistro, serving authentic Hong Kong-style dim sum near Grandview. Small plates like steamed dumplings and savory bites make it a fun, social dining experience, alongside classic Chinese-American dishes like General Tso’s, fried rice, pad Thai, and sweet & sour shrimp.
Location: 775 Yard St., Columbus, OH
Website: dimsumab.com

Fat Arnie’s Sandwich Shop

About: Fat Arnie’s brings hearty sandwiches to Rafters Beer Pub, crafted by former Chapman’s Eat Market chef Christopher Beardman and his family. From classic hoagies to inventive creations, it’s a perfect spot for pub eats with quality ingredients.
Location: 4404 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH

Linworth Grill

About: From Ahmed Quaraja of Lavash Cafe and Zaki Mediterranean comes Linworth Grill, offering upscale Mediterranean dishes like grilled kebabs, falafel sandwiches, Persian rice, fresh salads, and homemade desserts including pistachio cake. A full-flavored, elegant Mediterranean experience in a familiar plaza.
Location: 2245 W. Dublin-Granville Rd., Columbus, OH
Website: Linworth Grill (Facebook)

Mid City Garage

About: Reopened in German Village after a remodel, Mid City Garage serves thin-crust pizzas, killer subs, fresh salads, and full-bar cocktails in a retro-Americana space. Happy hour specials include $2 well drinks, $2 domestic beers, and $8 cheese pizza — a perfect pit stop for locals.
Location: 1179 Jaeger St., Columbus, OH
Website: midcitygarage.com

Hokkaido Revolving Sushi Bar

About: This all-you-can-eat revolving sushi restaurant offers a conveyor-belt dining experience with sushi, sashimi, ramen, poke bowls, hibachi, and desserts. Guests can pick dishes as they glide by, making it a fun, fresh, and interactive way to explore Japanese cuisine.
Location: 1466 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH
Website: hokkaidocolumbus.com

Previous Months

The Boat House at Confluence Park

About: Fresh off a renovation, The Boat House is back with riverside dining, skyline views, and an elevated new menu. Dishes like Caviar Frites and seafood towers add flair, while cheeky cocktails (like “Ghosted”) keep things fun. The vibes are peak “staycation in the city.”
Location: 679 W. Spring St., Columbus, OH
Website: boathouserestaurantoh.com
Instagram: @theboathouseoh

Daydreamer Cafe

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About: Austin’s favorite coffee daydream just landed in Columbus. Daydreamer is known for its gorgeous, Instagram-ready interiors, creative espresso drinks, and plenty of space to hunker down with your laptop. Expect drip and espresso from Omni Roasting and Try Hard Coffee Roasters, plus teas, matcha, pastries, and snacks. Basically, it’s a vibe.
Location: 222 W. Lane Ave., Columbus, OH (inside Rambler Columbus)
Website: daydreamer.coffee

Black Sheep Kitchen & Spirits

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About: From the teams behind Bodega and District West, Black Sheep is serving food, drinks, and community in the Short North. The LGBTQIA+ eatery bills itself as a safe space where individuality is celebrated, and the menu is all about comfort with a little edge. Think great cocktails, solid eats, and a welcoming vibe that feels both familiar and fresh.
Location: 1124 N. High St., Columbus, OH
Website: blcksheepkitchen.com

Frybird

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About: Fried chicken out of a school bus? Yep. Frybird is serving up halal wings, tenders, nuggets, and chicken sandwiches alongside Walking Nachos (Doritos bag and all). It’s quirky, it’s fun, and it’s the kind of spot that doesn’t take itself too seriously—except when it comes to the food. Open daily with DoorDash delivery if you can’t make it to Whitehall.
Location: 3940 E. Main St., Whitehall, OH
Website: facebook.com/frybirdohio

Rose Dough Donuts

About: Clintonville is getting a whole lot sweeter. Rose Dough Donuts, founded by Katie Passo, is now open with a rotating lineup of brioche, old fashioned, and French cruller-style donuts. Expect playful flavors like Rainbow Sprinkle, Peach Basil-Lime, and Raspberry Sugar. It’s mostly grab-and-go, so plan on snagging your weekend treat early before they sell out.
Location: 3375 N. High St., Columbus, OH
Website: rosedoughdonuts.com

Paik’s Noodle

About: This international chain just opened its first Columbus location in Sharon Heights, serving up Korean-Chinese comfort food. The menu includes spicy jjamppong soup, black bean noodles, fried rice, and other bold, flavorful dishes that pack serious heat.
Location: 5032 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214
Website: Paik’s Noodle

Plate

About: Chef Jamie George is back with a pop-up inside East Market. Plate is a test kitchen for his upcoming Rize Café and supper club concept. The menu leans Italian but keeps things creative, with summery seafood, garden-forward dishes, and playful takes on nostalgic favorites.
Location: 212 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205
Website: East Market

Scoops with Smiles

About: This Black-owned scoop shop in Groveport is all about community, inclusion, and really good ice cream. It’s a welcoming place to cool down, enjoy a treat, and support a mission-driven local business.
Location: 530 Main St, Groveport, OH 43125
Website: Scoops with Smiles (Instagram)

House of Creole

About: Originally from Cleveland, House of Creole has arrived in the Short North with a full menu of Southern and Cajun-inspired dishes. You’ll find staples like shrimp and grits, blackened salmon, and cornbread, plus a cocktail list that leans bold. You can make reservations here.
Location: 1026 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Website: House of Creole

El Rey

About: El Rey just opened in New Albany in the former Local Cantina space. The menu features grilled meats, seafood, burritos, tacos, and vegetarian options, plus plenty of tequila-forward cocktails. It’s a casual spot with a focus on fresh ingredients and generous portions.
Location: 5525 New Albany Rd W, New Albany, OH 43054
Website: El Rey

Ravello’s Coffee

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About: This upscale coffee concept started as a mobile vendor and just opened its first brick-and-mortar in Italian Village, tucked inside the Daily Bar. With sleek vibes, solid espresso, and limited hours (they close before the bar opens), Ravello’s is the kind of morning pick-me-up spot that feels a little luxurious.
Location: 883 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH
Website: ravellos.coffee

Bar Italia

About: From the team behind Lindey’s, Bar Italia just opened its Easton location — and it’s a stunner. Expect fresh, handmade pasta, modern Italian design, and a vibe that leans more “Roman vacation” than “mall restaurant.” The cocktail list is just as strong as the pasta game, and yes, there’s brunch.
Location: 4145 The Strand, Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH
Website: baritalia.com

Astra Rooftop

About: Set to officially open July 11, Astra is taking over the former Lumin Sky Bar with a brand-new vibe. Think skyline views, flaming tomahawk steaks, and a rooftop party atmosphere. If you love dinner and a show (the steak is literally on fire), this one’s worth booking early.
Location: 517 Park St., Columbus, OH
Website: astracolumbus.com
Reservations: Reserve on OpenTable

Chef-O-Nette

About: A true Upper Arlington classic is back. After nearly 70 years in business and a short closure, this beloved neighborhood diner has reopened under new ownership—with all the original charm intact. Expect pancakes, cherry Cokes, swivel stools, and maybe a few homemade cinnamon rolls.
Location: 2090 Tremont Center, Upper Arlington, OH
Website: Chef-O-Nette on Facebook

Ciao Cafe GV

About: If you love a good affogato, Ciao Cafe German Village is about to become your new obsession. Nestled next to Fox in the Snow, this spot serves up espresso, coffee, and plenty of gelato-based treats. Gluten-free and vegan options abound, and sandwiches and paninis are coming soon!
Location: 214 Thurman Ave., Columbus, OH
Website: Ciao Cafe GV

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h3>Fogo de Chão

About: Columbus finally has its own Fogo de Chão, and it’s everything meat lovers could hope for. This Brazilian steakhouse brings the art of churrasco cooking to Polaris, serving up fire-roasted meats carved tableside, along with a massive selection of sides and seafood. The all-you-can-eat experience means you’ll never leave hungry.
Location: 1425 Polaris Parkway, Columbus, OH
Website: Fogo de Chão

Osaka Ton Kotsu

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About: If you’ve been craving authentic tonkatsu, Osaka Ton Kotsu is here to deliver. This new downtown spot is the only restaurant in Columbus dedicated to the beloved Japanese dish of breaded, deep-fried pork cutlets. Served with rice, shredded cabbage, and savory tonkatsu sauce, it’s pure comfort food. You’ll also find onigiri, Katsu Don, Katsu Curry, and chicken-based options, with many ingredients imported straight from Japan.
Location: 194 S. High St., Columbus, OH
Website: Osaka Ton Kotsu

The Mochi Shop

Mezcla

About: Taking over the former Market IV space in Italian Village, Mezcla is bringing a fresh Latin fusion concept to Columbus. Opening April 11th, this highly anticipated restaurant keeps the warm, welcoming atmosphere of its predecessor but introduces a brand-new menu. If you haven’t snagged a reservation yet, good luck, because tables are filling up fast!
Location: 1022 Summit St., Columbus, OH
Website: Mezcla

Begin Cafe

Campfire Brewing

About: What started as a backyard brewing hobby among four Westerville dads has grown into a full-fledged brewery and taproom. Campfire Brewing is all about community, good beer, and recreating the magic of those nights spent around the fire. Expect a welcoming space, great brews, and plenty of camaraderie.
Location: 6300 Frost Rd, Westerville, OH 43082
Website: Campfire Brewing

Love Riley Cakes

About: Riley Harris has been wowing Central Ohio with her vintage-inspired cakes, witty designs, and elegant icing work. After training in London under a world-renowned pastry chef, she’s now opening her first storefront in Columbus. Expect custom cakes, macarons, cookie sandwiches, cream puffs, and more.
Location: 14 Dillmont Dr, Columbus, OH 43235
Website: Love Riley Cakes

Smoked Lick BBQ

About: Smoked Lick BBQ is serving up mouthwatering smoked meats in Hilliard. From slow-cooked brisket to tender ribs, this spot is all about bold flavors and quality barbecue. Whether you’re grabbing carryout or planning a catered feast, just remember to order ahead—this BBQ is in high demand!
Location: 4333 Cosgray Rd, Hilliard, OH 43026
Website: Smoked Lick BBQ

The City Buffet

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About: A new buffet has landed on the west side, offering an extensive selection of dishes in a casual setting. Whether you’re craving classic comfort food or exploring new flavors, The City Buffet has something for everyone.
Location: 3670 Soldano Blvd, Columbus, OH 43204
Website: The City Buffet

The Jerk Spot

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About: Now open inside Budd Dairy Food Hall, The Jerk Spot brings bold Jamaican flavors to Columbus. Signature dishes like Jerk Chicken and Oxtail are seasoned with a house-made Jerk Rub and Jerky Paste, delivering an authentic Caribbean experience.
Location: 1086 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43201
Website: The Jerk Spot

More:

• The Most Beautiful Restaurants In Columbus
• The 50 Best Bars In Columbus

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