Food Archives - Columbus Navigator https://www.columbusnavigator.com/tag/food/ Your Daily Guide To The Best of Columbus Thu, 28 Aug 2025 03:30:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.3 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/red-circle.png Food Archives - Columbus Navigator https://www.columbusnavigator.com/tag/food/ 32 32 A Favorite Columbus Diner Could Soon Be Forced Out https://www.columbusnavigator.com/honeydip-diner-closing/ Thu, 28 Aug 2025 03:30:20 +0000 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/?p=68026 As Honey Dip Diner and its Kenny Rd. neighbors are facing displacement from redevelopment, they're asking local who love the spot to rally.

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For more than 50 years, HoneyDip Diner has been serving up comfort food, hot coffee, and community spirit from its spot on Kenny Road. But now, the beloved diner—and its small business neighbors—are at risk of losing their longtime home to redevelopment.

In a heartfelt post shared on Facebook on Wednesday, HoneyDip announced that their building, along with others on the block, is caught in the middle of a legal battle.

The property went into receivership after landlord disputes, and a court-appointed receiver has quietly arranged to sell the buildings to developers, without giving tenants a chance to purchase the spaces they’ve occupied for decades.

The news has left the Kenny Road community blindsided.

honeydip donut diner sign
via Facebook

For diners who grew up grabbing breakfast at HoneyDip, or families who made it their weekend ritual, the thought of losing this piece of Columbus history stings.

HoneyDip and the other tenants aren’t giving up without a fight. They’ve launched a petition calling on the community to help preserve the businesses that have called Kenny Road home for generations. They’re also asking locals to share favorite memories and photos from over the years, a reminder of just how much these small businesses mean to Columbus.

You can read the diner’s full statement on Facebook or sign the petition here.

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Parable Cafe Has Closed Temporarily And Employee Are Voicing Concerns https://www.columbusnavigator.com/parable-cafe-closed/ Wed, 20 Aug 2025 06:33:02 +0000 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/?p=67969 Parable Cafe just closed its doors. Staff are speaking out, and the story behind the scenes is anything but simple.

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Parable Cafe, the gratuity-free coffee shop that’s called downtown home since 2022, has closed its doors for now. The shop announced the pause on Instagram Aug. 19, writing simply, “All operations paused for the time being,” and noting that it was stepping back to “work through business operations.”

Parable first launched as a pop-up inside Comune in 2020 before opening its High Street cafe two years later. It quickly built a following for its mission-driven model: pay-what-you-can options for customers in need, higher drink prices that supported staff benefits, and a culture centered on employee well-being.

But behind the scenes, employees say the past year has been anything but stable.

A new Instagram account, @parablegonedark, shared a lengthy statement from staff describing late paychecks, sudden restructuring, and the arrival of a “silent investor” who they allege now holds majority ownership. According to the employees, that investor, Ron Reynolds of Arete Capital Partners, brought an approach that clashed with Parable’s original mission, focusing on cost-cutting instead of community.

Co-founder Benjamin Willis responded in an Instagram story, saying he was “incredibly disappointed with how this has all ended up” and is working to get employees the money they’re owed.

instagram story about parable cafe
Benjamin Willis reposted the @parablegonedark Instagram post to his stories.

For many who worked there, Parable was more than a coffee shop — it was a space built on values of care, creativity, and community. Now, its future is uncertain. Employees say they’re still waiting on paychecks, and customers are left wondering whether Parable’s story has ended, or if this pause could someday give way to a new chapter.

Read the full statement from the employees below:


Parable Employee Statement via @parablegonedark

As Parable closes its doors today, we the employees, the life blood of the business, and the people who made this space, are grieving what this place was to us and what it has turned into.

A tumultuous year of inconsistent communication, repeated late and bounced paychecks, sudden restructuring, and overall chaos and instability, reached its culmination in the last few weeks as we learned more about how ownership appears to have managed this business — and by extension our livelihoods.

Roughly a year ago, some of us were informed by Ben and Jeffrey that a “silent investor” had been brought in to assist with undefined financial concerns at Parable. Ron Reynolds — a principal of Arete Capital Partners, and COO of Farids & Co — was, to our understanding via Ben, the individual who invested a large financial sum into Parable to settle existing debts and provide financial and structural support to ownership. What we were not made aware of at the time is that Ron acquired an ownership stake in the company — which we now have learned was a majority position.

We feel Ben and Jeffrey handed over their business, their staff, and their mission to someone who, in our personal experience, has not demonstrated care for the Columbus community or for the values Parable was built upon. Though Ron had multiple opportunities and avenues to engage directly with the entire team, we feel he did not make any meaningful effort to connect with us, our people, or support our mission. Based on our experience, his background in what we perceived as “aggressive restructuring” — which to us looked like cost cutting at the expense of our well-being — clashed deeply with how this space has always operated. We still don’t know why Ron was brought in with the level of control he appears to have had, but based on the impact we’ve felt since then, we believe his approach does not align with or benefit the values and people at the heart of Parable — us, and you.

Ben and Jeffrey, while both culpable, started this business with the mission of community first. It feels to us that Ron approaches with a profit-first perspective, with our community treated as secondary.

While it feels like Ron was the catalyst, Ben and Jeffrey’s inability to communicate effectively with staff, and lack of transparency, allowed for the events of the last year to play out in a way that harmed us most in the end. We as a united front feel they were willing to lie for their benefit, and are walking proof of what will happen when you run a business on impulse decisions and passive solutions.

Despite employees’ multiple demands for more honesty and transparency about finances, more info on organizational structure, and overall just a seat at the table, ownership continued to make major decisions with very little information being given to employees. Sometimes, employees found out about new structure of hours, wages, etc. not through Ben and Jeffrey themselves, but through social media posts. When the proverbial shit would inevitably hit the fan, we were often met with reassurances of “we’ll do better” and “the employees come first” and “don’t worry, we have money,” but we did not see those words followed by consistent action. Instead, the cycle continues.

When all was said and done, our trust in ownership’s ability to lead with empathy, collaborate with us, and most importantly pay us, was obliterated. We feel this is a broken relationship that cannot be fixed, there is no remedy for the multiple maladies they thrust upon us, and the “Parable” that we once knew is now just another name of another failed business.

As of releasing this statement, we are still awaiting paychecks from 2 weeks ago, with another week of work completed and owed to us Monday August 25th. If we do not receive pay by then, we will be three weeks behind, with no confirmation of if or when we will get paid.

To our customers, our friends, our family, our community: please continue to keep eyes on this page as we let you know how we can be supported, and where we all land after this. We as a community take care of each other and while ownership may have lost sight of that, we haven’t.

Featured image via Parable on Facebook.

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Burger Royale Brings Pulp Fiction Vibes To High Street https://www.columbusnavigator.com/burger-royale-columbus/ Tue, 19 Aug 2025 02:30:47 +0000 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/?p=67945 Burger Royale, inspired by Pulp Fiction, has opened on High Street. Expect West Coast–style burgers, hand-cut fries, and cinematic vibes.

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Columbus just got a new burger joint with a cinematic twist.

Burger Royale is now open at 1758 N. High St., in the former Apollo’s space, serving up West Coast–style burgers and a menu inspired by Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction.

The restaurant first launched as a food truck, building a following for its butter-toasted brioche buns, hand-pattied burgers, and fresh-cut fries cooked in beef tallow.

burger royale food truck
The OG Burger Royale food truck. Photo via Facebook

Now, the brick-and-mortar spot is serving favorites like the Royale, the Royale with Cheese, and The Apollo — a nod to the former restaurant topped with gyro meat and tzatziki. For something bolder, the Big Kahuna comes stacked with Spam, pineapple, jalapeños, and BBQ sauce.

The menu doesn’t stop at burgers. There are quesadillas, chicken tenders, and even duck fat fries. With its mix of movie nostalgia and no-fuss burger shop energy, Burger Royale is adding a little Hollywood flavor to campus dining.

For more info, head over to burgerroyalecolumbus.com.

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Where To Find The Best Delicatessens In Columbus https://www.columbusnavigator.com/best-deli-columbus/ Mon, 18 Aug 2025 04:20:01 +0000 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/?p=56262 Looking for the best deli options around town? We've got you covered.

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If there’s one thing this city could use more of, it’s access to deli sandwiches.

I love a good deli and I find it genuinely unfair that other cities around the US get to have so many fantastic delicatessens on every street corner.

Luckily, there are a few amazing eateries around the city where you can fulfill all of your deli dreams. Let’s take a dive straight in and get to know the most delicious deli spots around town a little bit better.

Brown Bag

A sandwich from Brown Bag Deli, Columbus, Ohio.
via Facebook

About: Brown Bag Deli in German Village features amazing seasonal dishes and all of your favorite deli classics. You can dine in or get your food to go. If you choose to stay at the Deli, you can enjoy outdoor seating and treat yourself to some ice cream from the scoop shop next door or a nice walk around Schiller Park.
Location:898 Mohawk St, Columbus, OH 43206
Website: Brown Bag

Katzinger’s Delicatessen

A sandwich from Katzinger's Deli, Columbus, Ohio
via Facebook

About: Katzinger’s is probably the most iconic deli that we’ve got here in Columbus. It’s a full-on, New York-style deli, offering everything from the Reuben to the pickle. The deli can get fairly busy, so if you’re visiting during peak hours (like lunchtime) it’s probably best to grab your order to go because this place can get crowded. But that’s just more proof of how delicious it is.
Location: 475 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Katzinger’s Deli

Danny’s Delicious Deli

Food, deli sandwich from Danny's
via Facebook

About: Danny’s Delicious Deli is more like a deli/diner combo. It definitely has a retro feel when you visit, plus it’s a wonderful deli to grab a fun bite to eat with friends or family. You can get breakfast or lunch at Danny’s Delicious, so go ahead and treat yourself.
Location: 37 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43235
Website: Danny’s Delicious Deli”

Seitan’s Realm

Seitan's Realm vegan, plant-based deli in Columbus, Ohio
via Facebook

About: Craving that perfect deli sandwich and then remembering that you’ve made the decision to go vegan doesn’t have to be the start of a very bad day anymore. Seitan’s Realm offers its own vegan twist on all of the classic deli dishes and it’s freaking delicious.Location: 3496 N High Street, Columbus, OH 43214
Website: Lucy

Fox’s Bagel & Deli

fox's deli case
via Facebook

About: Fox’s Bagel & Deli is a homegrown Columbus favorite, known for its steamed bagel sandwiches and neighborhood feel. Owner Jeremy Fox got his start slinging bagels from a food cart and trucks at OSU before opening brick-and-mortar spots in Bexley and the North Market. With roots in the community and a menu full of creative bagel builds, this deli is all about tradition and flavor.
Locations:
– 3012 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43209
– 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Fox’s Bagel & Deli

Frenchi’s Deli

frenchi's deli sandwich
via Facebook

About: Frenchi’s is a cozy Clintonville gem where the sandwiches lean classic but are packed with flavor. With fresh ingredients and a focus on quality over quantity, it’s the kind of spot you’ll want to keep in your regular lunch rotation. Perfect for a quick bite between classes, errands, or just because you deserve it.
Location: 18 East Hudson Street, Columbus, OH 43202
Website: Frenchi’s Deli

Cornerstone Deli + Cafe

Cornerstone Deli sandwich, Columbus, Ohio
via Facebook

About: Cornerstone is one of my favorite places to grab a quick bite in the entire city. There are a lot of dishes to choose from on the menu, from deli sandwiches to sushi. Plus, it’s a great place to start an afternoon exploring Clintonville.
Location: 3296 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Website: Facebook

Get out there and grab something from a deli for lunch, Columbus!

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New Candy Spot Near OSU Lets You Craft Your Own Chocolate Creations https://www.columbusnavigator.com/the-candy-spot-columbus/ Wed, 13 Aug 2025 08:18:22 +0000 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/?p=67898 The Candy Spot near OSU is open! Explore global sweets, hard-to-find gummies, and create your own chocolate masterpiece.

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If your sweet tooth has been feeling neglected, fear not!

The Candy Spot has opened its doors at 1611 North High Street, just steps from OSU’s campus. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill candy shop: it’s a candy-lover’s dream, featuring unique sweets from across the U.S. and around the world that you won’t find anywhere else in central Ohio (hello, Dubai chocolate!)

the candy spot
via Facebook

Speaking of chocolate…

Chocolate fans, prepare to get hands-on at the chocolate bar, where you can craft your own custom chocolate creation with all the toppings your heart desires. Whether you’re stocking up on nostalgia-packed favorites or hunting for something entirely new, The Candy Spot promises a sweet adventure for every candy enthusiast.

Next time you’re strolling High Street, pop in—you might just leave with a bag full of happiness (and maybe a sugar buzz or two). You can check out The Candy Spot on Instagram to learn more about the shop, or visit the store for yourself!

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This Beloved Seafood Spot Isn’t Closing After All https://www.columbusnavigator.com/marinos-fish-and-chips/ Tue, 12 Aug 2025 04:34:03 +0000 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/?p=67880 Marino’s Seafood in Grandview reopens Aug. 20 after a brief farewell. Same crew, same fish & chips, just a twist in the retirement plans.

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If you thought you’d had your last bite of crispy fish from Marino’s Seafood Fish & Chips, think again.

The beloved Grandview spot, which announced its closure just a few months ago after 32 years in business, is officially reopening on August 20.

marinos seafood
Photo by Chelsea Wiley.

Originally, owners Harry and Rosemarie planned to retire and hand over the reins to Arthur Treacher’s, keeping the same staff and spirit alive. It would have been a big deal for the Ohio-based fish and chips spot, which hasn’t had a Columbus location in decades.

But as Marino’s shared on Facebook, “sometimes things just don’t work out.” The Treacher’s deal fell through, and now the original crew is back, ready to serve the same fried-to-perfection seafood fans have loved for decades.

For longtime customers, it’s a twist ending nobody saw coming — and a very delicious one at that. So mark your calendar, tell your friends, and get ready to welcome Marino’s back the best way possible: with a plate piled high with fish and chips.

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The Best New Restaurants In Columbus (August 2025) https://www.columbusnavigator.com/new-restaurants-columbus/ Fri, 01 Aug 2025 04:01:07 +0000 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/?p=12317 It's the beginning of the month so that means that it's time to make your culinary to-do list.

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There’s always something new and delicious to try in Columbus.

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 a brilliant new Creole spot to an exciting pop-up by one of the city’s favorite Chefs, 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.

Paik’s Noodle

paiks noodle dishes
via 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

East Market
Photo by Chelsea Wiley
    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

scoops with smiles
via City of Groveport Facebook
    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

house of creole
via Facebook
    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

el rey new albany
via Facebook
    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

Previous Months

Ravello’s Coffee

    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

bar italia dining room
via Facebook
    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

view from lumin sky bar
Photo of the rooftop when it was open as Lumin Sky Bar.
    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

chef o nette dining room
via Facebook
    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

The Boat House at Confluence Park

view at Confluence Park
The view at The Boat House at Confluence Park. Photo courtesy of The Boat House.
    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

Ciao Cafe GV

ciao cafe
via Facebook

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

Fogo de Chão

fogo de chao interior
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


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

mochi shop
via Facebook

About: Columbus’ OG mochi donut makers have officially opened their first brick-and-mortar! Partnering with Coffee Coin, The Mochi Shop is now serving up their chewy, sweet mochi donuts alongside iced mochas and hot coffee. If you haven’t tried mochi before, imagine a soft, slightly sticky Japanese rice cake topped with sweet glaze. They’re also offering daifuku mochi, which is stuffed with fillings like matcha truffle and strawberry.
Location: 999 Bethel Rd. Suite D, Columbus, OH
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 9 AM–2 PM
Website: The Mochi Shop

Mezcla

mezcla italian village
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

begin cafe westerville
via Facebook

About: Begin Cafe is bringing a cozy, Brooklyn-inspired vibe to Uptown Westerville. Opening on April 24th, this dreamy coffee spot blends historic charm with modern design, featuring original 1910 windows and floral-inspired decor by German design firm Rowe. The real star? The coffee. They’re kicking things off with espresso from Florin and Royal Flamingo, cold brew from Brootlegg, and drip coffee from Look Alive. Pair your cup with homemade cookies, scones, acai bowls, and gourmet toasts.
Location: 8 E. Main St., Westerville, OH
Website: Begin Cafe

Campfire Brewing

cozy patio in winter
Campfire Brewing via Facebook
    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

cakes in a display
via Facebook
    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

checkout area at smoked lick bbq
via Facebook
    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

    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

    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:

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Where to Eat Your Way Through Central Ohio This Festival Season https://www.columbusnavigator.com/central-ohio-food-festivals/ Wed, 30 Jul 2025 06:47:24 +0000 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/?p=67782 From peaches to pawpaws, here are 8 tasty food festivals happening across Central Ohio this season. Come hungry and wear stretchy pants.

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Central Ohio knows how to throw a food festival.

Whether you’re into peaches, pies, mac and cheese, or the mysterious pawpaw, there’s a weekend celebration for every craving. From small-town parades to massive food truck rallies, these festivals are peak summer/fall energy—with plenty of bites, bands, and local flair to go around.

Consider this your snack-filled roadmap to the season. Just maybe wear stretchy pants.

Peach Festival

lynd fruit farm peach fest
via Facebook

When: August 16, 2025, starting at 10 a.m.
Where: Lynd Fruit Farm
About: Celebrate summer with live music from Barefoot McCoy and G-Gap Band, free wagon rides, kids crafts, market samples, and food trucks like Schmidt’s Sausage and Lynd Donuts.
More info

Columbus Food Truck Festival

food truck festival
via Facebook

When: August 16–17, 2025
Where: Franklin County Fairgrounds, Hilliard
About: With 50+ food trucks, local art, craft beer, and live music, this beloved festival delivers a full weekend of flavor and fun. Tickets are $5 presale or $10 at the door.
More info

Millersport Sweet Corn Festival

millersport sweet corn festival
via Facebook

When: August 27–30, 2025
Where: Historic Lions Park, Millersport
About: Free admission, $15 parking, and endless buttery corn. Enjoy rides, concerts, tractor pulls, games, a 5K run, and that classic hometown fair energy.
More info

Obetz Zucchinifest

obetz zucchinifest
via Facebook

When: August 29 – September 1, 2025
Where: Fortress Obetz
About: This free four-day festival features a car and motorcycle show, science demos, local bands, and big-name country artists like Chris Young and Easton Corbin. Come for the zucchini, stay for the concerts.
More info

Ohio Pawpaw Festival

Pawpaw fruit festival in Ohio
via Facebook

When: September 12–14, 2025
Where: Lake Snowden, Albany, OH
About: A three-day celebration of Ohio’s native fruit. Featuring tastings, cook-offs, art contests, and sustainability workshops, this festival is quirky, local, and unforgettable.
More info

Hebron Pie Festival

hebron pie festival
via Facebook

When: September 13, 2025, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Where: Hebron Village Center, 9 W. Main Street
About: Pie lovers, rejoice. This small-town celebration features a parade, contests, vendors, and all the homemade pie you can eat. It’s sweet, simple fun hosted by the Hebron Historical Society.
More info

Mac & Cheese Festival

columbus mac and cheese festival
via Facebook

When: September 26, 2025
Where: The Yard at Easton Town Center
About: Sample mac and cheese from dozens of local restaurants while supporting cancer research at OSUCCC – James. Family packs, general admission, and VIP tickets available.
More info

Circleville Pumpkin Show

circleville pumpkin show
via Facebook

When: October 15–18, 2025
Where: Downtown Circleville
About: One of Ohio’s most iconic festivals, this fall tradition boasts parades, contests, and just about every kind of pumpkin food you can dream up—from pies to burgers.
More info

So whether you’re in it for the sweet corn or the zucchini…

…or you just want an excuse to eat five kinds of pie in one day, Central Ohio’s food fests are here to serve. Bookmark this list, rally your foodie crew, and don’t forget to show up hungry.

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After 8 Weeks Closed, This Italian Hotspot Is Coming Back With A New Look https://www.columbusnavigator.com/marcellas-short-north/ Wed, 16 Jul 2025 08:32:04 +0000 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/?p=67659 This Short North spot reopens July 23 with a fresh new look, classic Italian dishes, and all the wine. Reservations are live now!

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One of the Short North’s favorite Italian spots is nearly ready to welcome guests back to the table.

Marcella’s, located at 615 N. High St., will officially reopen on July 23, following an eight-week closure for renovations. The beloved Cameron Mitchell Restaurants concept temporarily shut its doors on May 23 to refresh its space, aiming to create an environment that feels “bright, fresh, and now,” according to the restaurant.

The Short North location, which originally opened in 2007, has long been a go-to for modern Italian dining, offering fan favorites like Cacio E Pepe, Chicken Parmesan, and Veal Picante, alongside nearly a dozen artisan pizzas and a robust wine list. For dessert, guests can look forward to sweet staples like Tiramisu, Ricotta Cheesecake, and Affogato.

In a recent Instagram post, the restaurant teased its return, writing, “We can’t wait to see you next week in the Short North! See for yourself what we’ve been improving… you’re going to LOVE it. That’s a promise. 🥰

Reservations are now open for the reimagined space and can be made here.

If you can’t wait until next week to get your hands on one of their famous meatballs, don’t forget that Marcella’s also operates a second location at 1319 Polaris Pkwy.

Featured image via Facebook.

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These Columbus Restaurants Give Off Major Vacation Vibes https://www.columbusnavigator.com/vacation-vibes-columbus-restaurants/ Fri, 11 Jul 2025 04:10:42 +0000 https://www.columbusnavigator.com/?p=63479 Columbus is home to some incredible spots that will make you feel like you're on a mini-vacation without leaving the city.

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Dreaming of sandy beaches, warm sunsets, and that perfect tropical cocktail but can’t quite get away?

No worries, we’ve got you covered! Columbus is home to some incredible spots that will make you feel like you’re on a mini-vacation without leaving the city. Here are some must-visit restaurants that bring all the vacation vibes right to your plate.

Hank’s Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar

lounge at hanks seafood
The lounge area at Hank’s. Photo courtesy of Hank’s Seafood.

About: If you’re craving a taste of the South, Hank’s Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar is the place to be. This seafood haven brings you the flavors of the coastal Carolinas with fresh oysters, shrimp, and classic Southern dishes. The laid-back, nautical atmosphere will have you feeling like you’re right by the ocean.
Location: 6 W Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Hank’s Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar

Del Mar

del mar easton
via Facebook

About: At Del Mar, the only thing missing is an ocean breeze. This stylish spot offers a menu full of fresh, vibrant dishes inspired by the seaside towns of the Mediterranean. Think grilled octopus, saffron risotto, and plenty of fresh seafood. The chic, beachy decor adds to the coastal feel.
Location: 4089 The Strand E, Columbus, OH 43219
Website: Del Mar

Bonifacio

bonifacio food
via Facebook

About: Bonifacio brings the rich, diverse flavors of the Philippines to Columbus. Enjoy traditional Filipino dishes with a modern twist, from hearty rice bowls to flavorful adobo. The tropical, colorful decor and warm hospitality will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a vibrant island paradise.
Location: 1577 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
Website: Bonifacio

Pelino’s Pasta

pelinos pasta patio
via Facebook

About: Dreaming of an Italian getaway? Pelino’s Pasta is your go-to spot for authentic, handmade pasta that tastes like it’s straight from a trattoria in Rome. The cozy, rustic atmosphere is perfect for a romantic evening or a casual night out with friends.
Location: 245 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Website: Pelino’s Pasta

Butcher & Rose

butcher and rose interior
Photo courtesy of Butcher & Rose

About: With its modern, sophisticated vibe, Butcher and Rose brings a taste of New York to Columbus. This trendy steakhouse offers a menu full of high-quality meats and innovative dishes. The sleek decor and urban atmosphere will make you feel like you’re dining in a big city hotspot.
Location: 155 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Butcher and Rose

Kura Sushi

conveyor belt sushi restaurant
Photo by Chelsea Wiley

About: For a unique dining experience that feels like a culinary adventure, head to Kura Sushi. This revolving sushi bar offers a fun, interactive way to enjoy fresh sushi and other Japanese favorites. The bright, lively setting adds to the experience, making it feel like a night out in Tokyo.
Location: 8833 Lyra Dr, Columbus, OH 43240
Website: Kura Sushi

RH Rooftop Restaurant

RH rooftop restaurant
Courtesy of RH Rooftop Restaurant. Photo by James DeCamp

About: If you’re craving luxury and serenity with your meal, RH Rooftop Restaurant delivers. Perched atop the stunning Restoration Hardware gallery at Easton, this elegant spot offers a refined, garden-like setting complete with chandeliers, marble tables, and a retractable glass roof. The menu is seasonal and classic, with dishes like burrata, truffle fries, and perfectly cooked ribeye. It’s a total escape from the everyday.
Location: 4120 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219
Website: RH Rooftop Restaurant

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