I’m down for any sort of adventure, but I do have a tendency to be a little introverted. That is, unless, there is wine involved. I love gabbing over a glass of wine, even if it’s just on my own front porch.

So you can imagine my level of excitement when I hear that I can go to some incredibly unique wineries around Ohio. I’m talking old school buildings and transformed churches here people. Have fun exploring these gems and be safe!

School House Winery

About: This quaint, historical one-room schoolhouse in Dover isn’t done teaching. The pupils aren’t school children anymore, they’re adults like you and me who want to learn about delicious, Ohio made wine and hang out with our friends. That’s my kind of school. The building was built in 1886 and it’s located just minutes away from Amish Country.
Location: 455 Schneiders Crossing Rd NW, Dover, Ohio 44622
Travel time from Downtown Columbus: about 2 hours
Website: School House Winery

South River Winery

About: Take me to church, especially if the church you’re talking about is the South River Winery. The old church that houses the winery was originally located in Shalersville, OH, but now you can find it in Geneva. South River serves flights of wine for tasting for $7 and you can even bring in your own picnic items.
Location: 6062 South River Rd, Geneva, Ohio 44041
Travel time from Downtown Columbus: about 3 hours
Website: South River Winery

The Old Firehouse Winery

About: What if I told you you could sip on a glass of wine and then enjoy the sunset over Lake Erie while riding an adorable Ferris Wheel? Would you be excited? Because you totally can at The Old Firehouse Winery. The Historic Erieview Park Ferris Wheel, originally built in 1956, sits on the grounds of the winery and tickets can be purchased from your server for $3.75.
Location: 5499 Lake Rd E, Geneva, OH 44041
Travel time from Downtown Columbus: about 3 hours
Website: The Old Firehouse Winery

Hidden Lakes Winery

About: Quiet and secluded, this incredible winery will make you feel like you’re a lot further out of town then you really are. Hidden Lakes Winery was created by Damon Pfeifer, a fifth-generation winemaker. The winery is nestled on the shores of a small, private lake, complete with peaceful views to enjoy while you sip on your flavorful wine.
Location: 650 Winchester Pike, Canal Winchester, OH 43110
Travel time from Downtown Columbus: about 25 minutes
Website: Hidden Lakes Winery

Vinoklet Winery

About: When Vinoklet Winery was established in 1986, founder Kreso Mikulic had no idea it would grow into a business. He thought he was just taking the skills he had learned from his father in Croatia and planned on creating some wine for friends. But his passion and the vines grew. Now, the vineyard has over 12,000 vines across 30+ acres of rolling hills and ponds in Colerain Township in Cincinnati, Ohio. This is a little slice of wine country right here in Ohio, folks. The winery has a beautiful outdoor pavilion where you can catch various performances throughout the summer.
Location: 11069 Colerain Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45252
Travel time from Downtown Columbus: about 1 hour and 45 minutes
Website: Vinoklet Winery

Featured image via Facebook.

The post 5 Unique Ohio Wineries That Are Perfect for a Weekend Getaway appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

A great drink and a fantastic view.

Rooftop season is officially here, and there’s no better way to soak up the sun than with a drink in hand and a killer view. Whether you’re bar-hopping in the Short North or planning a romantic night out, these Columbus rooftop bars are here to impress.

Brass Eye at The Junto

Novak’s Tavern + Patio

Jackie O’s on Fourth

VASO Rooftop Lounge

Seventh Son Brewing Co.

Stories on High

Goodale Station

Goodale Station is one of those bars that you walk into and instantly feel like you’re the main character. Located on the top of the Canopy By Hilton hotel, he bar is chic and modern with interesting views of Downtown Columbus that you won’t get anywhere else. In addition to some of the best drinks in town, Goodale Station also offers a dinner menu, brunch options, and happy hour. It’s perfect for a romantic date or an intimate event and honestly, I’ve lost my train of thought because I’ve been overcome by those views.
Location: 77 East Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, Ohio, 43215
Website: Goodale Station

RH Rooftop Restaurant

BrewDog Franklinton

Lumin Skybar

Lumin Skybar is situated near Goodale Park. Sitting on the 8th floor of the AC Hotel, the bar has a great view of the city and cocktails that will knock your socks off. In addition to the beautiful outdoor space, the indoor area at the bar has plenty of spots where you can still enjoy the view. You can check out or review of the bar here, but rest assured, it will not disappoint.
Location: 517 Park St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Lumin Skybar

Antiques on High

This is one of my favorite little rooftops in Columbus. Not only can you grab a perfectly crafted cocktail or sour beer from the bar, but you can enjoy it on the roof. Antiques on High specializes in sour beer, which can be a bit of an adventure if you’ve never had it before. They also have some pretty incredible cocktails on the menu. The rooftop patio has a cozy fireplace, casual lighting, and a wonderful environment for throwing a few back with your pals.
Location: 714 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206
Website: Antiques on High

Lincoln Social

Lincoln Social is a fantastic addition to the rooftop bar scene here in Columbus. It has some seriously impressive views of the city and a great, central location in the Short North. While they don’t have a massive food menu at Lincoln Social, they’ve got more than enough options to feed even the hungriest of bar patrons. The menu includes sushi, pizza, and small desserts. They’ve got a great wine selection, in addition to craft cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks as well. The bar is glamorous yet accessible and it’s quickly become the place I take my friends who are visiting Columbus from out of town to impress them.
Location: 711 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Lincoln Social

Budd Dairy Food Hall

Featured image via Stories on High Facebook.

The post 13 Stunning Rooftop Bars In Columbus With Amazing Views (2025 Update) appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

This chic new bar brings an impressive wine selection, a craft cocktail menu, and a commitment to sustainability to the neighborhood. With a state-of-the-art wine dispensing system, Grandview Vinoteca offers an extensive wine-by-the-glass menu, perfect for sipping on flights curated by their knowledgeable team, led by sommelier Katie Mueller.

Many of the wines are sourced from winemakers dedicated to organic farming, sustainability, and giving back to their communities.

Expect innovative drinks like house-made fig liqueur, a clarified daiquiri, and a locally sourced espresso martini that will keep your taste buds intrigued.

To complement the drinks, the menu features cheese and charcuterie boards made with goodies from Black Radish Creamery in Granville.

Plus, the bar is already planning exciting extras like a wine club and regular tasting events.

Ready to visit? Grandview Vinoteca is located at 1306 Grandview Avenue. It’s open Tuesday through Thursday from 4-10 p.m., Friday from 4-11 p.m., Saturday from 12-11 p.m., and Sunday from 12-10 p.m. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just looking for a cozy spot to catch up with friends, this new addition to Grandview Heights is worth a stop.

The post A New Wine And Cocktail Bar Has Arrived On Grandview Avenue appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

What better way than to grab a delicious cup of hot chocolate? Of course, you could go with the classic chains like Tim Hortons, Starbucks, or Panera and I certainly wouldn’t judge you. We’ve all been in an “I need chocolate and I need it right now” situation.

But if you’re looking for something a little more local, there are a lot of great options. Forget the cold and gray vibes Columbus is known for this time of year and brighten up your day with something sweet and delicious.

La Chatelaine

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If you’re hunting for authentic, European-style hot chocolate, then there’s nowhere better than La Chatelaine. Their Belgian Hot Chocolate is made with chocolate ganache, cream, and their own secret ingredients. It’s topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
More info: La Chatelaine

Winans Chocolates and Coffees

Winans knows how to do chocolate right. That’s especially true when it comes to the liquid, hot variety. You can stop by any of their three Columbus locations any day of the week to get a cup of hot chocolate that will warm you right up.
More info: Winans Chocolates and Coffees

Chocolate Cafe

The hot chocolate at Chocolate Cafe is arguably the best hot chocolate you will ever have. They have a huge variety, including Hot Chocolate, Dark Hot Chocolate, White Hot Chocolate, as well as specialty hot chocolates, including Cherry Jubilee, LaSalle Mint, Caramel, Mexican, Kaffee Wien, Peanut Butter, Nutella, Butterscotch.
More info: Chocolate Cafe

Fox in the Snow

Fox In The Snow isn’t just one of those places you go to for the food and drinks. Obviously, their menu is delicious, but their vibe and ambiance are off the charts. Their hot chocolate will only leave your wallet $4 lighter unless you pair it with a yummy tart, muffin, biscuit, or any of the other completely amazing things they have on the menu.
More info: Fox in the Snow

The Roosevelt Coffeehouse

Roosevelt Coffeehouse is my favorite place to grab both a cup of coffee and a hot chocolate. What can I say? Sometimes you need a jolt of caffeine but you still want to sip on a creamy, delightful cup of hot cocoa. If you’re craving duality, head to Roosevelt.
More info: The Roosevelt Coffeehouse

Pistacia Vera

Not only can you grab incredibly scrumptious treats from Pistacia Vera, you can also indulge in a mug of Valrhona Hot Cocoa. Pair your cocoa with a crème brûlée éclair and I promise, you’ll leave this German Village bakery a very happy camper.
More info: Pistacia Vera

The post Where to Get The Best Hot Chocolate In Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

After opening a new location in a former Post Office back in August, High Bank Distillery promised something exciting coming in the future, and they were not joking.

If you’ve ever been in line at the post office and thought, “I could use a drink,” then this is the destination for you. When you first walk in, you won’t be getting speakeasy vibes at all. But let’s be real, that’s the mark of a good hidden bar, right?

Once you’ve checked in and found the secret door, you’ll be well on your way to P.O. Box Twenty One, the newest speakeasy in Westerville, courtesy of High Bank Distillery.

Located at 28 S State Street in the basement of High Bank Distillery, the speakeasy harkens back to Westerville’s surprisingly prominent prohibition past.

Westerville was the perfect spot for the ASL’s base of operations. The town had already been dry since the 1850s, with local laws banning the sale of alcohol. The ASL’s influence in Westerville was so strong that the town earned the nickname “The Dry Capital of the World.”

READ MORE: The Push For Prohibition Found A Home In Ohio: Here’s How The Anti-Saloon League Became A Powerhouse

It’s come a long way since the Whiskey Wars of the 1800s, where speakeasies were attacked and Anti-Saloon League propaganda was being mailed out of the very same post office that P.O. Box Twenty One now inhabits.

The doors will officially open to the new joint on October 30, 2024.

On the menu, you’ll find everything from giggle water to an old fashioned named after iconic Westerville saloon owner Henry Corbin to the bar’s take on a classic martinez.

P.O. Box Twenty One is open 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. For more info, head over to poboxtwentyone.com.

The post How A Former Post Office Became Westerville’s Newest Speakeasy appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

That’s right, folks! The dynamic brother duo has become significant owners and operators of one of the fastest-growing beer brands in the country, Garage Beer. And if you’re thinking, “Wait, aren’t they football players?” you’re not wrong. But these brothers have a passion for beer that’s about to make them as famous in breweries as they are in stadiums.

Garage Beer is a small batch brewed, classic light beer that hails from right here in Ohio. This isn’t just any partnership. Jason and Travis have spent years discussing how they could join forces in the business world, seeking a brand that aligns perfectly with their values and lifestyle. Enter Garage Beer – a company dedicated to fun, community, and, of course, fantastic beer.

A Perfect Pairing: Brothers and Beer

The Kelce brothers are diving headfirst into the beer business, becoming significant investors, partners, owners, and operators of Garage Beer. They’ll be involved in every aspect of the business, from brewing and distribution to sales, marketing, and national expansion efforts. If you’re wondering if this means they’ll be hands-on, you bet! Expect to see their influence in everything from retail displays to social media content, billboards, and beyond.

“People crave quality and simplicity, and Garage Beer nails both for me. We are light beer drinkers and Garage is the best light beer,” says Jason Kelce. “For me, the brand fits my lifestyle, and having a few beers is a great excuse to get the neighbors together.”

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Travis Kelce couldn’t agree more. “It comes down to quality for me. I think everyone knows I like to have a couple beers now and then, so being an owner of Garage Beer and heavily involved in making the best light beer is exciting, man! There is nothing better to bring people together than an ice-cold beer, and for Jason and me, that is what beer is all about – friends, family, and fun.”

From the Grid Iron to the Brewhouse

Garage Beer started in Cincinnati, Ohio, where the Kelce brothers played college football for the Cincinnati Bearcats. Now headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, the beer is already a hit in states like Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, and more, with plans to expand into dozens of new states this year. Their mission is clear – to bring people together with a beer that’s not just tasty but embodies the spirit of community.

Andy Sauer, co-owner of Garage Beer, shared his excitement about the partnership. “We want a beer that tastes like beer and one that keeps the stories alive in the neighborhood. Garage prides ourselves on small batch brewing and a commitment to quality. Ever since our first conversation with Travis and Jason, it was clear we had similar opinions about beer, but they also had brilliant, and very funny, business sensibility. Our team better be on their toes now!”

The Garage Beer Experience

So, whether you’re a die-hard football fan, a beer enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good story, Garage Beer and the Kelce brothers have something special brewing for you.

The post Kelce Brothers Score A Craft Brew Touchdown With Columbus Based Garage Beer appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

When you go, don’t hesitate to order something fruity and delicious. Arguably, the best thing about tiki bars are their drink menus, so you’d really be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t have at least one beverage involving a tiny umbrella.

The tiki bar craze officially started in Los Angeles in 1934 at a bar called Don the Beachcomber. The tiki bar was the brainchild of Ernest Raymond Beaumont Gantt (whew, what a name!) who was a New Orleans native who loved to travel. He changed his name to Don Beach when he set up shop in LA and created a bar inspired by the tropical flavors he found while traveling the Caribbean and South Pacific.

It took a while for the full tiki bar obsession to take hold. During World War II, young Americans were deployed throughout the South Pacific and it was there that the got they fell in love with all things tropical.

Here in Columbus, the most iconic of the tiki establishments remains The Kahiki, even though it closed years ago. If you’re on the hunt for those Kahiki vibes, you’ve come to the right place.

Sacred Palm

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If you’re seeking out a mysterious sort of night, the speakeasy under Mikey’s Late Night Slice in the Short North is the perfect fit. Sacred Palm feels exclusive. They’ve got a great drink menu and the secret entrance is super clever. Plus, you’re just a few steps away from a midnight snack.
Address: 457 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Sacred Palm (Instagram)

Huli Huli Tiki Lounge

Porco Lounge & Tiki Room

Tiki Underground

Tiki Tiki Bang Bang

Featured image via Facebook

The post Where To Have The Full Tiki Bar Experience In Ohio appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Happy Hour is more than a period in the middle of the day to get our buzz on for the cheap, it’s an American tradition of the utmost sacred nature. We love our occasional day drinking, and Columbus is no different. That’s why we’ve put together a few of the city’s most awesome happy hour deals.

Aracri Pizzeria

Known for its hefty slices and Italian comfort food, Aracri offers a laid-back happy hour from Tuesday to Friday, 4-6 p.m. Enjoy $5 drafts and glasses of wine alongside $2.50 bottled beers and $8 appetizers.

Buckeye Bourbon House

Nestled in the Residence Inn’s lobby, Buckeye Bourbon House boasts a fantastic whiskey list and very cozy vibes. Their happy hour, Monday-Friday from 4-6 p.m., features $7 signature cocktails, Manhattans, and Old Fashioneds, plus $6 wines and $3 domestics.

Due Amici

A staple on Gay Street for Old World Italian cuisine, Due Amici spices up Monday to Saturday, 3-6:30 p.m., with half-off small plates, pizzas, and discounts on drinks.

El Camino Inn

Dive into a lively atmosphere with $7 margaritas, $4 Palomas, $2 beers, and more at El Camino Inn’s happy hour, Monday-Friday, 4-6 p.m.

Goodale Station

Elevate your happy hour at Goodale Station on the Canopy By Hilton’s rooftop bar. From Monday to Friday, 4-6 p.m., enjoy discounted small plates, $9 cocktails, and stunning city views.

Hadley’s Bar & Kitchen

With a cozy vibe on South Fourth Street, Hadley’s offers $5 draft beer, select spirits, and wine pours, plus $6 appetizers, Wednesday-Friday, 4-7 p.m.

Little Palace

Step back in time with retro vibes and happy hour deals at Little Palace, where Monday through Friday, 4-7 p.m., brings $3 drafts and well cocktails, $2 domestic beers, and $2 off wines by the glass.

Little West Tavern at The Junto

Daily “Easy hours” from 4-6 p.m. at Little West Tavern offer $8 dishes, including their delicious poutine, alongside drink specials. It’s the hotel’s cozy corner for good food and good times.

Milestone 229

Overlooking the scenic Scioto Mile, Milestone 229’s bar area hosts a happy hour Monday-Friday, 4-6 p.m., with $9 specialty cocktails and small plates, plus $5 draft beers, against a stunning backdrop.

PINS Mechanical Co.

For those seeking fun with their sips, PINS offers $2 off specialty cocktails, draft beer, and wine until 7 p.m., Monday-Friday. It’s your go-to for games and good times.

Rishi Sushi Kitchen & Bar

Rishi’s sets the stage for an artful happy hour, Monday-Thursday, 5-6 p.m., with deals on both sushi and cocktails.

Sidebar

Cozy up at Sidebar for a blend of vintage cocktails and Latin-inspired small plates, Monday-Friday, 4-6 p.m., featuring $8-10 tapas, $15 pizzas, and a selection of drink specials.

Slammer’s

A downtown LGBTQIA+ bar with over 30 years of history, Slammer’s offers a welcoming happy hour Monday-Friday, 4-6 p.m., with $5 shareables and drink discounts in a community-focused setting. Please get pizza, you won’t regret it.

Stories on High

Located on the Hilton Tower’s 28th floor, Stories on High has a daily happy hour, 4-6 p.m., with $9 small plates and cocktails, $7 wines, and $5 beers, paired with breathtaking views.

The Citizens Trust

A bank-turned-bar, The Citizens Trust offers a refined happy hour experience with discounted cocktails and wines by the glass, Monday-Friday, 4-6 p.m., in a stunning, historic setting.

The Keep

Housed in the iconic LeVeque Tower, The Keep lures with its Art Deco elegance and happy hour charm, Monday-Friday, 4-6 p.m., offering $7 cocktails, $6 wines, and $5 beers, plus half-off selected small plates.

Wolf’s Ridge Brewing

Craft beer aficionados will relish Wolf’s Ridge Brewing’s taproom and dining area specials. From Tuesday to Friday, 3-6 p.m., enjoy $1 off drafts in the taproom and dining room deals including $7 classic cocktails and $8 house wines.

From quaint bistros to bustling brewpubs, Columbus’ happy hour scene is as diverse as it is delightful. This guide to the capital city’s best deals is your passport to exploring the rich flavors and vibrant atmospheres that make Columbus a treasure trove of culinary and social gems. Cheers to discovering your new favorite spot, one happy hour at a time!

The post The Best Happy Hours In Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Finding the Spot

Nestled inside Natalie’s Grandview, “I Like It Like That” may seem like a delightful secret waiting to be discovered. Head across the patio, find the door on the far side, and you’re in. And if you accidentally wander into Natalie’s, no worries—they’ll point you in the right direction with a smile.

The Vibes

When you first head in, you’ll be met with ambient lighting, cozy nooks, and meticulously crafted cocktails, which all come together to create an immaculate vibe. “I Like It Like That” is exactly that spot. From the meticulously crafted cocktails to the tastefully curated decor, every detail conveyed an elevated yet unpretentious experience.

The Drinks

The cocktail menu is nothing short of fantastic. The Gin Tini stands out, possibly claiming the title of the best gin martini in the city. For those looking to venture into the adventurous, the Pimpinella offers a treasure trove of unexpected goodies like chipotle cacao and chlorophyll, ensuring your palate is pleasantly surprised.

The Bites

The small plates here are a testament to culinary perfection. The Duck Fat Popcorn, Tomato Salad, and Strip Steak are highlights, each dish dazzling with its unique flavors. The tomato salad brings a welcome heat, perfectly complementing the chimichurri sauce of the steak, while the duck fat popcorn surprises with its harmonious blend of salty, sweet, and fatty notes.

Convenience Reimagined

One of the best perks? The hassle-free parking. With a massive lot behind Natalie’s, you’re spared the typical stress of finding a spot in the bustling city, allowing you to focus on the exclusive experience awaiting you inside.

A Tribute to Tradition

Drawing inspiration from the old New Orleans tune by Chris Kenner, “I Like It Like That” is a tribute to the joyous spirit of music and camaraderie. Open Wednesday through Saturday, this 21-and-over establishment promises the best in cocktails, espresso, impressive small plates, pizza, and dessert, all within the vibrant atmosphere of Natalie’s Grandview.

Beyond the Basics

While competitors might merely announce the opening of a new cocktail bar, “I Like It Like That” embodies a promise—a promise of an unmatched atmosphere, blending the charm of Rainbow Row with the legacy of Matchsticks. With plans to spin vinyl and feature a funky jukebox, the bar sets itself apart, offering an ambiance and experience unlike any other.

In a city that’s no stranger to innovative and exciting culinary and cocktail ventures, “I Like It Like That” stands out as a beacon of creativity and comfort. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or someone seeking a cozy nook to unwind, this bar invites you to discover why it’s quickly becoming the talk of the town. So, next time you’re wondering where to grab a drink in Columbus, remember: I Like It Like That is where you’ll want to be.

To learn more, or to make a reservation, visit ilikeitlikethatbar.com.

The post Discover The Secrets Behind the Door of ‘I Like It Like That’, Grandview’s Newest Bar appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Nearly 13% of Ohioans claim some Irish ancestry and sometimes, whether it’s the desire to feel connected to that ancient ancestry, or because you’re just craving a Guinness, we find ourselves heading out to the nearest Irish pub.

Irish pubs weren’t immune to the negative effects of the pandemic and we certainly lost a few, but the best of the best are still open and going strong. Whether you’re looking for a full Irish breakfast or you’d just like to grab a pint with your friends, we’ve got a fun selection of Irish bars around town where you can do either.

Hey Hey Bar and Grill

Fado Irish Pub

Dempsey’s Food & Spirits

Dublin Village Tavern

Byrne’s Pub

Cavan Irish Pub

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Named after Cavan County in Ireland, Cavan is the only gay Irish pub in the state, according to their website. The bar has a fantastic covered patio, cold drinks at the bar, and even some epic drag shows. Very few pubs and bars can genuinely say that they are one-of-a-kind, but Cavan is and it’s amazing.
Location: 1409 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207
Website: Cavan Irish Pub

McClellan’s Pub

The post Try Your Luck At The Best Irish Pubs In Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.