Columbus is a full‑on burger city—college‑town energy plus a serious local food culture means everyone has a favorite. These five spots come up again and again.
1. The Thurman Cafe (technically in German Village, but Columbus royalty)
Thurman is legendary. It’s loud, cramped, cash‑only vibes, with a menu that reads like a dare. The burgers are enormous—towering stacks you almost need a strategy to eat.
Locals swear by:
- The Thurman Burger and The Thurmanator (absolutely massive, piled with ham, bacon, cheese, sautéed onions, and more).
- Juicy patties cooked on a flat‑top, with that perfect diner‑style crust.
It’s not subtle, it’s not dainty, but it’s iconic. You’ll likely wait, but that’s part of the ritual.
2. The Eagle
Better known for fried chicken, The Eagle also turns out one of the city’s most-loved burgers. The space is rustic‑chic, lots of wood and steel, and always buzzing.
The Eagle Burger is:
- Thick, juicy, and deeply beefy
- Topped with melted cheese, pickles, maybe some bacon, and a tangy house sauce
- Served on a well‑toasted bun that holds up to all the juice
Pair it with their skillet cornbread or fries and a craft beer and you’ve got a low‑key perfect meal.
3. Preston’s: A Burger Joint
Preston’s started as a pop‑up and now has brick‑and‑mortar cred. Locals talk about it in the same breath as the country’s best smashburger spots.
Why it hits:
- Thin, crispy‑edged patties stacked two high.
- American cheese that fully melts into a lava blanket.
- Shredded lettuce, pickles, onion, and sauce for that “perfect fast‑food burger, but elevated” vibe.
If you love a good smashburger—salty, crunchy edges, ultra‑juicy center—this is your non‑negotiable Columbus stop.
4. Arch City Tavern
Right on High Street, Arch City feels like a polished sports bar crossed with a gastropub. It’s dark‑wood and brick, with a strong beer list and a menu that’s a cut above generic bar food.
Their burgers stand out for:
- Quality of the beef and consistent medium/medium‑rare cooking.
- Smart toppings like bourbon caramelized onions, smoked gouda, or pepper jack with house‑made sauces.
It’s the place locals suggest when someone wants a “real” sit‑down burger with good drinks and a nicer atmosphere.
5. Bareburger (Columbus)
Another mini‑chain that Columbus folks approve of, Bareburger leans organic, customizable, and slightly health‑conscious without losing the fun.
You can do:
- Grass‑fed beef, bison, or plant‑based patties
- Brioche, sprout, or gluten‑free buns
- Creative builds with avocado, spicy aioli, fried pickles, and more
For locals with dietary needs—or just a love of options—Bareburger is often the go‑to.
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