Skip to content Skip to sidebar Skip to footer

Two Columbus Spots Are in the Running For USA Today’s Best New Restaurant

Columbus is representing in the national dining scene! Two local favorites, Bears Bagels in Hilliard and Flour Modern Pasta Bar in Columbus, have been named finalists in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best New Restaurant.

Out of the thousands of restaurants that open every year in the U.S., only 20 made the list. These finalists were selected by a panel of food and travel experts who looked for standout spots that opened in the past year and a half, including everything from chef-driven fast-casual eateries to upscale destinations with hyper-local and sustainable menus.

What USA Today Had to Say

About Bears Bagels, USA Today writes:

“Bears Bagels in Hilliard, Ohio, specializes in bagels made the ‘right way:’ hand-rolled dough, which is rested for 24 hours, boiled, then baked fresh daily. Their menu includes classic bagel flavors and unique specialty spreads. If, somehow, you needed more incentive to swing by this bagel spot, the owners donate 100% of their credit card tips to local charities.”

person holding bagel sandwich
via Bears Bagels (Facebook)

About Flour Modern Pasta Bar, they say:

“Flour Modern Pasta Bar serves up fresh, handmade pasta in a stylish, modern setting that blends global flavors with comforting Midwest cuisine. With an affordable preset dinner menu, the Ohio restaurant’s focus on seasonal ingredients and innovative recipes makes it a go-to for pasta enthusiasts.”

flour modern pasta bar polaris
via Instagram

How to Cast Your Vote

Want to show your support for these incredible local restaurants? Voting is open now, and you can vote once per day until Monday, December 23, at noon ET. Simply head over to the 10Best website to cast your vote for Bears Bagels, Flour Modern Pasta Bar, or another finalist.

The top 10 winners will be revealed on Thursday, January 2, at noon ET, so don’t wait—spread the word and help showcase Columbus as a food destination.