Columbus has always danced to its own beat—a vibrant Midwest metropolis with Big Ten energy, a love of new ideas, and a food scene built on ambition, diversity, and heart.
With one of the country’s largest university populations and a dynamic immigrant community, Columbus offers international flavor alongside deeply comforting Ohio classics.
Food here isn’t fussy but it’s adventurous: farm-to-table, vegan, Somali, Southern, and “new American” all thrive. The best local favorites are friendly, original, and absolutely worth the drive—or bike ride.
Here are five must-try local favorites:
1. Northstar Café
Northstar Café is Columbus’s answer to fast-casual, but with local, seasonal creativity and a focus on fresh flavors.
Their “Northstar Burger”—a vegetarian patty with black beans and brown rice, stacked high with roasted tomato and cheddar—is beloved by carnivores and non-meat eaters alike.
Their Cloud Nine Pancakes and ginger-mint lemonade both have a fan following.
Northstar’s commitment to sustainability, open spaces, and welcoming crowds make it a staple for students, families, and lunch dates alike.
2. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus
A Central Ohio classic since 1886, Schmidt’s is equal parts restaurant, shop, and living slice of Columbus history.
Inside, servers in dirndls and lederhosen bring hefty plates of sausages, Bahama Mamas (a spicy local legend), sauerkraut, and giant cream puffs (yes, they’re as big as your head).
It’s festive, hearty, and busy—especially during Oktoberfest and game days. The beer is cold, the sausages are smoky, and every table feels like a Columbus family in the making.
3. Katalina’s
Katalina’s puts its own playful twist on comfort food in a historic gas station with a sweet garden patio.
Try the “Mexican French Toast”—stuffed with Nutella and mascarpone—or the famous pancake balls, which come filled with dulce de leche and dusted in powdered sugar.
The coffee is strong, the crowd is artsy, and the Latin/Ohioan mashup on the menu (try the Pork & Egg Sandwich with avocado salsa) means there’s no boring brunch here.
4. The Refectory
Set in a beautiful converted church, The Refectory is where Columbus celebrates anniversaries, milestones, and business wins.
Chef Richard Blondin, a Michelin-trained French chef, brings a creative, modern flair to classic dishes.
You’ll find dishes like duck breast with black cherry sauce, melt-in-your-mouth chateaubriand, and a renowned cheese cart.
While it’s fancy, it’s never pretentious—staff are welcoming, and the wine list is a draw all its own.
5. Hot Chicken Takeover
Born in a humble food truck, Hot Chicken Takeover is now a colossus of heat and hospitality—serving up juicy fried chicken ranging from “cold” to “holy fiery.”
The weekend lines are a testament to its cult status, as is their commitment to employing people who need a second chance.
The mac and cheese and banana pudding sides are just as memorable as the chicken itself, and from the first crunch to the friendly, high-energy staff, you’ll see why locals keep coming back.
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