
Isn't it amazing how a humble ground meat patty topped with cheese can be transformed into an infinite variety of choices to satisfy any palate? Whether you like it simple, spicy, sweet, savory or even meat-free, there's a cheeseburger out there with your name on it.
Friday, September 18 is Cheeseburger Day, a time to celebrate this iconic staple of American cuisine. Honor the cheeseburger and support local businesses with a visit to one of these delightful restaurants around Columbus.
183 Thurman Ave., Columbus, OH 43206
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As one writer put it, if there were an NCAA-style tournament for burger joints around Columbus, The Thurman Cafe would be Duke. A German Village landmark since 1942, The Thurman Cafe is so well-known that they have their own Wikipedia entry. Adam Richman of Man v. Food traveled to Columbus to take on the Thurmanator, a behemoth with 24 ounces of beef, three types of cheese, bacon, sautéed mushrooms and onions, ham, and banana peppers But don't be intimidated: there are nearly two dozen types of burgers on the menu to accommodate any size appetite. The Thurman Cafe's kitchen opens daily at 11 a.m.
503 S. Front St., Columbus, OH 43215
Opened in late 2016, Rockmill Tavern has become a favorite destination in the trendy Brewery District. The menu features upscale gastropub food, but Rockmill's signature Tavern Burger strikes a pleasing balance between traditional and contemporary. Starting with a grilled ciabatta bun made exclusively for Rockmill by Matija Breads, the burger is then topped with Tillamook Cheddar, pickled red onion, bacon jam, and Dijonnaise. Pair your burger with one of the hand-crafted Belgian beers from Rockmill's brewery in nearby Lancaster. Rockmill Tavern is open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday through Sunday.
3945 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219
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When it comes to supporting local vendors, Flip Side backs up their words with action. All of their chef-driven burgers are made with Ohio-raised grass-fed beef, although you're free to substitute a chicken, turkey, or veggie patty. Purists go for the Simplicity Burger with lettuce, pickle and tomato, while the Uncle Jimmy Burger, with peanut butter, applewood bacon and habanero pepper jelly, is a creative take on comfort food. If you're looking for flavor and tenderness with less fat, try the farm-raised bison burger. Be sure to include a side of truffle fries, which customers rave about almost as much as the burgers themselves. Flip Side opens at 11 a.m. every day but Monday.
2822 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
Some like it hot, and if you're one of them, the award-winning Pepper Burger at O'Reilly's Pub is your dream come true. A black peppercorn crust is added to the half-pound patty to ensure a satisfying tang with every bite. Bacon, pickles, white onions, and Provolone cheese round out the fullness of flavor. Heatseekers also enjoy the Tom Burger, which is prepared with a healthy dose of spicy Jamaican jerk seasoning. And what would an Irish pub be without a pint of brew to wash it all down? O'Reilly's is serving up burgers and beer seven days a week.
4615 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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Thanks to Irving Berlin's classic song, "Puttin' on the Ritz" has come to mean doing it up right. Nowhere is that more evident than Ritzy's, where your way is always the right way. The Ritz is one of their trademark crispy-edged smashburgers served with toppings that you choose. Options range from traditional add-ons, such as cheese, ketchup, and bacon, to more inventive ones, including sriracha and peanut butter. How hungry are you? The basic Ritz is a double-patty burger, while the Itzy Ritzy is a single patty and the Grand Ritz is a triple-threat. Head to Ritzy's any day of the week starting at 11 a.m.
1101 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43201
Popular, easy to make, and portable, burgers are a natural for food trucks. Street Thyme has gained a reputation for one of the best burgers in Columbus, encompassing the city's thriving food truck scene along with brick-and-mortar restaurants. The best-selling Single Suzy, topped with Cheddar cheese, dill pickle, and housemade Worcestershire aioli, is a masterpiece of simplicity. Add another patty and make it a Basic Betty. Start your day the way Mom intended with an Irish Breakfast Burger, two patties with bacon, grilled tomato, Cheddar, bacon, and jalapeño jelly. Find Street Thyme outside Seventh Son Brewing on Thursday evening and Saturday afternoon, as well as at Land Grant Brewing on Monday night, Antiques on High Wednesday night, and Parsons North Brewing Friday night.
1051 Goodale Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212
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In little more than two years on the Columbus restaurant landscape, High Bank Distillery has quickly established its place in the upper ranks. The slogan "Elevated yet Casual" applies to the handcrafted bourbons from their distillery as well as the upscale bar food favorites on the menu. High Bank's namesake double burger is an elegantly tasty combo of American cheese, red onions, pickles, and secret sauce on a brioche bun. Order online for speedy carry-out service. Doors open at 11 a.m. daily.
340 E. Gay St., Columbus, OH 43215
Pat and Gracie's may sound as though it's named for a vaudeville comedy team, but the backstory is even more colorful than that. The tavern sits on land once occupied by a horse farm purchased by big-time gambler Pat Murnan for his ladylove Gracie Backenstow, former madam of a downtown brothel. Fast-forward to the 21st century, when customers enjoy hand-formed Pat and Gracie burgers such as the Chimi, featuring Monterey Jack cheese, bacon, avocado mousse, caramelized onions, and house chimichurri sauce. Pat and Gracie's has a second location at the more conventional site of Graceland Shopping Center. Both spots are open daily for dine-in, carry-out, and delivery.
1455 W. 3rd Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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As if spectacular food wasn't enough of a draw, the romantic speakeasy vibe earns Grandview Cafe a spot on Columbus Navigator's list of the city's 10 most beautiful restaurants. Billed as "the burger of all burgers," Grandview Cafe's impressive GC Burger lives up to the hype. An appealingly chewy pretzel roll holds a dry-aged beef patty topped with bourbon-caramelized onions, smoked bacon, tomato jam, and a three-cheese blend of Fontina, White Cheddar, and Gruyère. Less exotic but no less tasty is the Hadley's Diner Burger, with American cheese, pickles, and Dijonnaise. Grandview Cafe is open every day for lunch and dinner.
418 E. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43206
Heading to a hot dog joint for a first-rate burger may sound counterintuitive. Not when it's Village Coney, where both burgers and hot dogs are served with equal amounts of love and respect. With no need to reinvent the wheel, Village Coney offers a beautifully basic cheeseburger with your choice of cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, pepper jack, or bleu cheese. Village Coney serves lunch from Monday through Saturday.
When you're creating your perfect cheeseburger, what's the one must-have condiment or topping you can't do without?

With restaurant dining rooms shut down all across the state, it's more important than ever to support our favorite local restaurants by ordering takeout meals when we can.
When you need a break from cooking at home, curbside pickup or delivery is a great option. There are many excellent Columbus restaurants that remain open and are offering these services. Here are a few that we recommend.
716 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43206
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Popular local restaurant Ambrose and Eve has teamed up with their sister restaurant Preston's to serve family-style meals like pasta, pizza, and fried chicken, as well as their ever-popular burgers and fries.
Check out their Facebook page where you can see their menu and updates. When you're ready, place your order by calling 614-725-2080.
1577 King Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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Craving modern Filipino fare? Check out the $10 meals, extras, and desserts at Bonifacio. This popular restaurant is offering delivery and takeout from 11 am until 7 pm. They're also giving 15% discounts on your first order of $20 or more.
Check their website or Facebook page for their current menu, then order online or give them a call at 614-914-8115.
169 E. Beck St., Columbus, OH 43206
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A long-time favorite among locals and visitors alike, Lindey's is offering food and wine for takeout. They're also providing free delivery in certain areas. This eliminates the need to pay third-party delivery fees!
In the mood for Lobster Bisque, a filet, or some Creme Brulee? They've got your covered! Check out their Facebook page to keep up with their latest specials. You can place your order by calling them at 614-228-4343.
4080 Worth Ave., Columbus, OH 43219
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Want to enjoy a delicious craft brew with your dinner? Forbidden Root Restaurant and Brewery is offering a full to-go menu of their beers and family-style meal packages. You can get your order through delivery, takeout, or curbside pickup from 11:30 am until 9 pm.
Check out their website for the current menu offerings. Note that you must order your meals ahead of time — no later than 10 am for same-day delivery. You can place your order by emailing amy@forbiddenroot.com or by calling (614) 414-4127.
787 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43214
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For Thai favorites from noodles to spicy curry and even bubble tea, you can't beat Jiu Thai Asian Cafe. They're currently offering takeout and free delivery within a 3-mile radius. Check their website for their current menu offerings and order by giving them a call at 614-732-5939.
595 S. 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215
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With a focus on local, seasonal food, G. Michael's Bistro and Bar always delivers a superb dining experience. Check out their website for the current daily specials, including weekend family dinner specials.
The restaurant is currently open for carryout and delivery. They start taking preorders at noon and start delivering and offering takeout at 5 pm. They're currently offering 10% off all orders. To order, give them a call at 614-464-0575.
2985 N. High St. Columbus, OH, 43202
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When the craving for authentic Mediterranian food strikes, you'll want to place an order with Lavish Cafe. They offer delicious hummus, shwarma, lamb chops, kabobs, and more! They also have plenty of vegan and gluten-free options available. Follow their Facebook page to see the daily specials.
You can order your meals online through their website and either pick it up or have it delivered.
4428 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214
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Vegans and carnivores both love the healthy and tasty meals from Portia's Cafe. They offer raw, organic, and gluten-free salads, soups, and wraps that are perfect for those days when you feel like eating something light. They have different specials each day, which you can find on their Facebook page.
Once you've decided what you would like, head to their website to order online or give them a call at 614-928-3252. They're currently offering takeout, curbside pickup, and free local delivery.
19 E. Gay St. Columbus, OH 34215
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Offering Asian-inspired flavors with a modern twist, Tiger+Lily offers a wide selection of appetizers, entrees, and noodle dishes. If you're looking for a healthy, flavorful meal, this is an excellent option. You can find their full menu on their website, and, if you order online, you can get 10% off with the code LOVE.
They currently offer takeout, curbside to-go, and delivery through DoorDash and Grubhub.
3847 S. High St. Columbus, Ohio
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Last, but certainly not least, Way Down Yonder New Orleans Finest Restaurant offers traditional cuisine, including their world-famous authentic gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, shrimp and grits, and even pecan praline beignets.
They offer call ahead/carryout options. Just give them a call at 614-662-8623 to place your order, then come to their pick-up window at your designated time.
Orders are accepted from 12 pm until 7 pm and you can also receive one kid's meal free between 12 and 3 pm with entree purchase (offer good until April 3rd). Follow their Facebook page to learn about any new specials or offers!
How many of these excellent local restaurants will you support over the coming weeks?

The popularity of Asian food in the Columbus area now extends to a beverage. Bubble tea, created in Taiwan during the 1980s, usually contains milk and sugar along with a wide range of "toppings." While these add-ins include red beans, pudding and jelly, the most common one is tapioca pearls that give bubble tea its distinctive, Instagram-ready look.
Whether you're a bubble tea newbie or long-time fan, you'll find your perfect drink at these wonderful tea and juice shops (and one sushi joint!) around Columbus.
809 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43214
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If you want a primer on bubble tea, head to The Brewed Leaf. Customers rave about the authenticity and wide range of drink options available. In addition to tapioca pearls, you can choose from toppings such as wild rice, red bean, pudding, and aloe. The Brewed Leaf even has tea topped with a layer of cream cheese, a popular variation in China that gives the tea a welcome savory touch. Settle in with your drink over one of the board games the shop keeps on hand. Hours are 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.
2781 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43202
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It may not be a traditional culinary duo like spaghetti and meatballs or bacon and eggs, but Chicken & Tea has become a favorite combo around Columbus. The food truck serves bubble tea along with traditional Taiwanese fried chicken dishes, including their signature giant chicken cutlet that's the size of your head. Complete your meal with sweet potato fries or fried broccoli, green beans, or mushrooms. Chicken & Tea operates March through November, so check their Facebook page for updates. Standard hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. weekdays and 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. weekends.
982 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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ZenCha Tea Salon has the elegantly soothing ambiance you associate with drinking tea. ZenCha's mission of promoting international tea arts is accomplished by their professionally-trained "tea ambassadors," who are charged with providing elite customer service and helpful knowledge to all customers. The tea menu lists nearly 100 options from Asia, Europe and Africa, while bubble tea comes in delicious flavors such as peach, hazelnut, and caramel. Enjoy classic afternoon tea, including finger sandwiches, scones, and petite sweets, weekdays from 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Stop in from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday, when brunch is served all day.
921 E. Johnstown Road, Columbus, OH 43230
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East meets West at Pochi Café with its blend of bubble teas and made-to-order sub sandwiches crafted with fresh meats and cheeses. Sandwiches like chicken parmesan, cheesesteak, and Italian come in 6-, 10- and 20-inch sizes. Other drink choices include smoothies with exotic flavors such as taro-coconut, peach-lychee, and mango-passion fruit. The updated diner-style seating area suits Pochi Café's stated belief in "The Art of Relaxing." Hours are 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. weekdays and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. weekends.
2899 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202
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Like a little karaoke with your bubble tea? Little Moon Café & Tea hosts Karaoke Night every Saturday from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m. With other regular events such as Monday Game Nights and Tuesday Euchre League, the charming café is a great place to hang out with old friends and make new ones. Each Monday at 1:30 p.m., Little Moon also serves as the base for Clintonville Entrepreneurship Center, a community resource for current and aspiring small business owners. Little Moon is open daily from 1 p.m. - 9 p.m. except Friday and Saturday, when hours are extended to 10 p.m.
1502 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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How good is the bubble tea at Knobu Sushi? Satisfied customers talk about the bubble tea as much as they do the sushi. What makes Knobu Sushi's bubble tea so special? The right degree of sweetness, size of the tapioca pearls and pearl-to-tea ratio. Sushi itself comes primarily in three different forms: rolls, burritos, and poke bowls, with each order customized for your choice of ingredients. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. Sunday.
1440 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43220
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"Life is uncertain ... eat dessert first." Sometimes you just want to get down to the good stuff, and those are the times you head to Wali Dessert. Bubble tea fits perfectly into their menu of ice cream, smoothies, juices, and baked goods. Sit back in one of the comfy chairs or couches and indulge your sweet tooth. Order online for quick take-out. Wali Dessert is open noon - 10 p.m. every day but Tuesday.
5025 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43214
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Want a light lunch to go with your bubble tea? Tea Zone Bakery & Café fits the bill. The menu features ramen and udon, two classic noodle dishes, along with lunch boxes that include your choice of protein with rice and kimchi. Be sure to try the bingsoo, a traditional Korean shaved ice dessert topped with fruit, ice cream, and other yummy add-ins. Don't leave without picking up some of the amazing baked goods such as potato bacon bread, apple fritters, or fresh fruit cake. Hours are 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
3951 Easton Square Place E., Columbus, OH 43219
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Add a little variety to your bubble tea at Koko Tea Salon & Bakery. Instead of tapioca pearls, go with popping pearls filled with strawberry, mango, or peach juice. Koko specializes in cupcakes, another sweet treat with widespread popularity. Mix and match from the extensive list of cake and icing flavors that includes salty caramel, cake batter, peppermint, and Hawaiian coconut. If you want a more classic tea experience, Koko's downtown location at 361 E. Broad St. is open exclusively as a tea house. Events include lunch hour teas, traditional high teas, mimosa teas, kids' teas, and themed teas. Reservations are required. Hours at Easton Square are 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday.
1990 N. High St., Columbus OH 43201
The name may not be literal, but it's close. Between bubble tea, fresh tea, slushes, espresso, and punch, Millions of Milk Tea has a seemingly endless number of beverage options. While beverages are the main event, Millions of Milk Tea also has a similarly impressive menu of Chinese appetizers, soups, and entrées. You could probably eat lunch AND dinner every day for a year without ever repeating a meal. Millions of Milk Tea is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Which beverage found in Columbus fits you to a "tea?"

Columbus is a remarkable city. The capital of Ohio is home to an engaging and entertaining cultural scene, perhaps best demonstrated by the diversity found in the city's many restaurants, bistros, cafés, and eateries. If you appreciate an exquisitely prepared meal featuring timeless cooking traditions, fresh ingredients, and burgeoning culinary trends, you will surely enjoy an evening at one of these fine dining destinations around the city.
89 E. Nationwide Blvd., Columbus, OH
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Named the Best New Restaurant in Columbus, Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse delivers the Jeff Ruby Experience—a total dining experience that is recognized across the nation by celebrities, travelers, major media publications, and Ohio residents. Begin your Jeff Ruby Experience with a drink from their list of fine libations before ordering an appetizer from their raw bar. Order a Jeff Ruby Premium Handcrafted Filet Mignon cooked to perfection or sample their delicious rolls from the sushi menu. Finish the meal with a delectable dessert of Buckeye Cake or Lemon Torte, order an after-dinner drink, and relax with a Jeff Ruby Boss hand-rolled cigar.
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How do you define your fine dining experience? At Third & Hollywood, they believe that the highest quality meats, freshest seafood, and ingredients grown on local farms are three necessary elements for a truly fine dining experience. Peruse their menus and you'll discover a wealth of flavor enhanced by local farms and growers who commit to sustainable and ethical practices. Whole grilled artichokes make a wonderful starter before your fresh Hollywood Salad and Righteous Pork Chop are ready to be served. Their daily specials include House-Made Gnocchi on Sunday, Marinated Hanger Steak on Tuesdays, and a scrumptious Zin-Braised Short Rib plate on Thursdays. End your dinner with a sharable dessert of Chocolate Pot de Crème, Strawberry Shortcake, or a Pecan Pie Sunday.
263 E. Whittier St., Columbus, OH
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Discover Old World European charm fused with metropolitan chic at Barcelona. Immerse yourself in reflections of Spain within the amazing atmosphere inside and cozy secret garden on their patio. As one of the premier restaurants in Columbus, Barcelona's constantly rotating menu uses only the best ingredients available to present you with a meal you'll always remember. May we suggest the Chef's Tasting Menu, a delightful gathering of Chile Rellenos, Gazpacho de Pepino, Ala de Sakte, and Natilla? You could also order tapas or paellas from their dinner menu to transport yourself to a world of Spanish flavor.
2 Miranova Place, Columbus, OH
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You can find legendary four-diamond dining at M at Miranova. Recently redesigned, their award-winning menu is loaded with innovative American dishes such as Colorado Lamb, Skuna Bay Salmon, Pork Belly, and Roasted Chicken. Regardless of which culinary delight you choose, their extensive wine list features bottles from Italy, New Zealand, Spain, France, Germany, California, and the Pacific Northwest. An additional list of signature and classic cocktails pair well with all of the rolls on their sushi menu. Make a reservation for dinner at M at Miranova and try their latest chef-driven creations!
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Lindey's is a Columbus landmark that has been a favorite dining destination for nearly half of a century and continues to rank among the top 10 restaurants in the city. Though their dinner menu is tasty from top to bottom, their specialties include their Lamb, Rotisserie Half Chicken, and Duroc Pork dishes. Lindey's also has a gluten-free menu and gluten-dessert menu, both of which are filled with dozens of options for guests with dietary sensitivities. Their unmatched food experience even includes a kid's menu so the whole family can enjoy one of the best fine dining experiences in Columbus.
1092 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH
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A historic landmark, an elegant dining experience, and the only central Ohio restaurant designated as Animal Welfare Approved, The Refectory is exactly what you desire in a fine dining destination. With a world-class wine cellar, classic French cuisine, and exceptional contemporary American culinary plates, this restaurant has been a top choice for Columbus diners since 1976. In celebration of their 43rd year, the Tribute to 1976 three-course menu was created to thank the dining public of Columbus for decades of support. Featuring soups, French-style entrees, and fantastic desserts, this hand-picked selection is the perfect introduction to The Refectory's amazing offerings.
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A unique dining experience unlike any other in Columbus, G. Michael's Bistro & Bar is a highlight of the German Village restaurant scene. With menus that change by the season, you can sample the freshest ingredients sourced from many local farms throughout Ohio. Visit them every Monday for a special Prix Fixe menu. This three-course meal features new creations from the chef every week, allowing you the opportunity to sample new and exciting plates that may become instant favorites!
811 Highland St., Columbus, OH
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Classic Italian dishes are among the most popular choices at fine dining establishments and casual eateries alike. At Basi Italia in Victorian Village, they understand that clean, simple Italian meals with innovative twists can present diners with a meal that makes you feel as if you're sitting in a cozy kitchen in the Italian countryside. Baked Ricotta Gnocchi, Eggplant Parmesan, and Rigatoni Salumeria are classic choices that rival their Shrimp Pomodoro, Prosciutto Wrapped Scallops, and Grilled Chicken Pesto. Enjoy a glass of sangria during your meal and order a cannoli that will leave a lingering taste of Italia on your lips.
200 Georgesville Road, Columbus, OH
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Rated a 4-Star Award Winner by Forbes Travel Guide, Final Cut Steak and Seafood inside the Hollywood Casino strives to define fine dining in Columbus. Every cut of their Mid-Western Prime Beef is hand-selected and naturally aged in their restaurant. Their seafood selection is just as remarkable as their beef, with Fresh Wild Salmon and Cold-Water Lobster topping their list of entrees. Rich side dishes such as Truffle Mac and Cheese and White Cream Corn help to create a hearty plate that fills your stomach and widens your smile. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, Final Cut Steak and Seafood is the best place to end a long week of work and start the weekend off on the right foot.
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Veritas may be new to Columbus, but it developed an amazing reputation in Delaware, Ohio, before moving to the capital city in 2018. Known as the original tasting menu dining experience in the city, their dishes blend classic techniques with contemporary trends to produce plates that you won't find anywhere else. We implore you to try the phenomenal seven-course chef's tasting menu to taste everything Veritas has to offer. Reserve your table today and enlighten your palate like never before.
Living in Columbus connects us to some of the best fine dining destinations in the state. What's your favorite restaurant around Columbus?

Veganism isn't just a food preference — it's a lifestyle! For many people around the Columbus area, adhering to a diet of clean, sustainable foods is a way of life made possible through a variety of places offering vegan options.
Thankfully, gone are the days of salads being the only vegan items on popular restaurant menus. Today, there is an exceptional number of vegan and vegan-friendly eateries scattered throughout Columbus. Let's dig into these healthy habits and check out twelve awesome vegan restaurants around The Arch City.
4241 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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Salads, burgers, pizza, burritos, bowls — there's a vegan item to satisfy your hunger at Northstar Café. Come in early for a healthy breakfast featuring housemade granola and breakfast potatoes. Northstar Café even has vegan options on their kid's menu! Bring your little ones in for a Northstar Burger or Little Buddah Bowl so they can eat healthy just like their parents! When it comes to accessible clean eating, Northstar Café tops the list for many Columbus vegans.
1038 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
While a liquor bar may not be your first thought for great vegan food, we encourage you to keep tabs on Oddfellows Liquor Bar. Every Monday, they feature a pop-up vegan restaurant with unbelievable pretzel bites, grilled cheeses, and chili. There's also an all-you-can-eat brunch complete with tofu scrambles and pancakes, among other vegan options.
1439 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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Wellness-inspired food in a fast-casual café, Alchemy Kitchen and their Alchemy Café mix up savory foods and sweet drinks for vegans and non-vegans alike. For brunch, enjoy breakfast tacos, Tumeric bagels, and avocado toasts. For lunch and dinner, barbeque jackfruit, basil portobello, salads, and toasts are among their great offerings. Stop by for a meal, or if you're pressed for time, hit up the Alchemy Café for a delicious smoothie.
401 W. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215
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One difficult challenge with clean eating is that, while many restaurants offer vegan items, they're usually quite limited to salads and such. Strongwater Food & Spirits offers upscale dining with fantastic vegan options that rival their non-vegan counterparts. The Black Bean Burger, Jackfruit Cake, Black and Blue Salad, Golden Beet Salad, Soba Noodle Salad, Pub Fries, and Sautéed Green Beans are available for lunch and dinner. This East Franklin gem provides you with a nice night out without having to worry about a limited vegan menu.
4428 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214
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Known as Columbus' best vegan restaurant, Portia's Café caters to a variety of dietary lifestyles. Absolutely no animal products are used in any of their food, and all foods are gluten-free, GMO-free, organic, and made with clean water. Portia's has one of the largest vegan menus we've ever seen — soups, salads, dips, starters, wraps, bowls, pizzadillas, quesadillas, desserts, and drinks offer you endless options. Say hello to your new favorite vegan destination!
680 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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The word 'brassica' is a genus of plants such as Brussels sprout and cabbage. The place Brassica in Columbus is a family-owned restaurant that knows the best way to prepare these healthy veggies for your vegan-friendly appetite. Pick a housemade pita and fill it with organic chickpeas, hummus, veggies, or even brassica fries. Simple food using fresh ingredients from local growers means clean eating at its finest.
1195 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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Pizza is life, but if you live a vegan lifestyle, a good vegan pizza can be hard to come by. Thankfully, Paulie Gee's Short North serves up four pies full of awesome-sauce. Order a slice of Red, White, & Greenpeace with pickled red onion and post-over cashew milk or In Ricotta Da Vegan with house vegan sausage. When you're hungry enough to eat a whole pie, ask for the Vegan Supreme. Looking for a simple slice? Simply & Red is a straight-forward classic.
2216 Summit St., Columbus, OH 43201
If you're craving comfort food, invites you to scale to the summit for unpretentious food with a twist. Filling options include vegan samosa, vegan kraut, butternut squash, roasted garlic, and vegan sausage. New varieties are baked every Tuesday, but the only place to find them is inside Café Bourbon. Pierogi Mountain pierogis are on the menu six nights a week and they're also available in take-home packages so you can savor Pierogi Mountain's delicious and diverse vegan flavors right in your kitchen.
132 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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What can be better than tacos, tequila, and margaritas? The convenience to build your own vegan tacos! While Condado's full menu isn't vegan, it highlights every item that is including tortillas, rice, veggies, sauces, and sides. If you don't want to build your own, you can confidently choose the Dutch Dragon, a double-decker with hard corn and soft flour shells, guacamole, grilled mushrooms, salsa verde, jicama, pickled jalapenos, tomatoes, and corn salsa. Rated the best tacos in Ohio by Thrillest, Condado is open late to fill your late-night vegan taco cravings.
1437 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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Looking for the best vegan food in Columbus? Eden Burger may hold the title. Their menu is 100 percent vegan so you can bring your appetite and leave your worry at home. Organic, plant-based ingredients are crafted into fast food favorites like burgers, wings, wraps, and sides that are too good to resist. Try a burger made with lentils, mushrooms, and rice or a breaded tempeh patty. Gluten-free buns are available as well for those with additional dietary restrictions. Be sure to swing by for brunch and enjoy breakfast burritos, loaded home fries, and donuts — all vegan and all delicious.
677 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43206
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What is plant-forward cuisine? Find out at Comune. They strive to create sharable dishes that are locally sourced and showcase satisfying flavors. Comune builds its menu from in-season ingredients, offering a taste of Ohio for a vegan diet. Chongqing Noodles, Banh Mi, and a Roasted Fennel Sandwich are fantastic lunch items, while the Pumpkin Sabzi, Grilled Stone Fruit, and Magic Chili Peanuts are on the menu for dinner. You'll also be pleased to know that they offer a selection of vegan wines to pair with your entrée.
1111 S. Hamilton Road, Whitehall, OH 43213
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine in the heart of Ohio at Lalibela Restaurant. Although most Ethiopian dishes include meat, Lalibela's menu has special vegan breakfast, lunch, and dinner options for every day of the week. The classic Gomen dish of collard greens with cottage cheese and Bamia with okra and berbere spice are local favorites, and the Ye Kik Alicha Wot split chickpea dinner is equally filling. They also have a full bar and billiards room if you're searching for a delicious vegan spot to spend the evening.
Where is your favorite Columbus spot for vegan food? Let us know in the comments!