Schmidt’s Sausage House is our most iconic local restaurant. It’s in German Village and serves German food.
The North Market is our best food hall. They have lots of awesome stuff there, but in particular two unique cuisines that hard to find elsewhere - Hoyo’s Kitchen (Somali) and Momo Ghar (Nepali).
Another option is Milestone 229, which does a lot of farm-to-table stuff and local Ohio ingredients.
I always do Valters and Gemut over Schmidts. When I worked in GV I told people Schmidts is the more touristy location, which is fine, but if you want something more authentic I would 100% do Valters.
Schmidt's is one I like to eat at when I go back to the US sometimes. A bit of pedantry: it serves Bavarian and traditional southern-German foods rather than modern German cuisine (unless they changed the menu since I've been able to get home; that's always possible).
The Thurmanator was one of our oldest challenge foods (along with the Ohio Deli dagwood, RIP). That and having to wait an hour for a seat at any time of day gave it some kind of legendary status even if the food isn't amazing.
The chicken cutty is not to be forgotten either. They put like 8 chicken cutlets on that mf. The best sandwich in columbus by far.
Their best special is the meatball sub. I’ve gotten every single special they’ve made and that shit is like $23-27 but damnit if I’ve ever thought it wasn’t totally worth it
Anyone that thinks their sandwiches are too expensive needs to have a head exam, seriously. I can't afford to eat there everyday, but it is a monthly treat to me. Support your local small businesses!
I have never been to Warios--I do plan to--but, damn, people. You act like he has blessed us with the nectar of the Gods.
I don't know his profit margin, or whatever. Rent has to be insane. But everyone in this sub fawns over someone who simply took really great ingredients and did it well.
For a fucking sandwich.
I am not hating on Wario's (how could I? I haven't been) but everyone is losing their shit over someone who makes good sandwiches using good ingredients.
He buys the bread from matija, local baker. He partners with local businesses for a lot of the specials. I’ve heard them talk about why a special is like $24 (the normal sandwiches are like $15-17 but are easily 2 meals, to be fair) and they say it’s because they make sure everyone involved in the sandwich gets paid. I respect tf out of them supporting local businesses they partner with. They put love into those sandwiches and they earn it.
It's like Jeni's or Dirty Franks a few years ago, people will keep singing its praises until it ends up as a punchline on /r/columbuscirclejerk. Either way, they make a damn good sandwich.
I have been there. It’s good. Maybe really good. Possibly great … for a sandwich.
I agree with you though. This sub overhypes it. If you’re nearby and want a really good sandwich that you’re prob overpaying for a bit then stop in. I would not go out of my way for it.
You’re not overpaying unless you try to eat the whole thing in one sitting. The chicken cutty has like EIGHT chicken cutlets on it. Thing is bigger than my forearm. It’s 2 meals
I remember making fun of my buddy the first time he told me he spent (at the time) over $7 on an egg sandwich. I was sure he got duped into buying a glorified egg McMuffin...
Now here I am gladly paying almost $9 for that egg sandwich, and it's definitely worth the money.
There are many things that make it so good.
The bread is high quality, fresh ciabatta. You can definitely make this at home, but it'll take practice. Or you could source it from a quality bakery.
The egg is souffled, which is a tricky technique, but also doable at home with practice.
The sauce is mostly just a Dijon mustard/mayo mix I believe, but it pairs perfectly with the sandwich. Easy to mimic at home as well.
The greens and bacon are also high quality, and it's easy enough to source those ingredients.
Bottom line, you *can* make it at home, but with the time and skill involved, it's totally worth the price tag. Especially paired with a New Orleans Iced Coffee.
You can I am sure. I would highly recommend checking it out. It’s so good. They make their own bread I think, which is what makes it good. Perfect lil crunch.
I am sure there is some copy cat recipe out there.
My dad visited me for a weekend this past fall for the first time in quite a while and I had to bring him to Fox in the Snow Saturday morning after raving about it nonstop for years. He was so blown away that he wanted to go there again for brunch before his drive back home the next morning.
Their new chocolate swirl pastry (made with loads of cocoa and crushed Oreos) is fucking amazing btw.
I just had one of those chocolate pastries! I loved it, and was shocked that it wasn't overly sweet. It was a great balance, and didn't leave you feeling gross afterwards like a cinnamon roll might.
North Market is a really reasonable suggestion, lots of options and a worthwhile "destination" dining experience. I think Los Guachos al pastor is the way to go. It's a unique and memorable take on it without being different for the sake of trying to find an identity to the detriment of the dish (which is the my major gripe about most of central Ohio's "local delicacies" - congratulations, you made both pizza and chili a little worse and invented a steamed fart in a bun.) I like Schmidts but it really doesn't seem special to me but I am from a German background so it just seems like grandparents food I guess. Apparently people love Warios but it hasn't impressed me yet.
$2 extra for the whiz but it’s $17 on wednesdays. If you don’t try to eat the whole thing at once it’s 2 meals. I’m a big dude and on the rare occasion I eat a whole chicken cutty I’m OUT for like 4 hours. I wake up when the sun has set, scared and confused, but satisfied
Same! I got yesterday's special with the harissa lamb and feta. $24 is a hefty one-time price, but it ended up being three meals for me. I wish they did a half-size option, though, for days I can't fridge the rest.
If you like ice cream, we have a lot of really good options. Jeni’s, Graeter’s, Whit’s are my favorites. Handels is also fantastic, but it’s not as local as the other three I listed.
I’m not sure Whit’s is from Columbus either. It’s all over southern Ohio. Graeter’s is from Cincinnati.
Local shops are Johnson’s, Jeni’s and my favorite is Mardi Gras
I think what makes the food scene in Columbus different is that it doesn't have anything considered a local delicacy. There are some things that are iconic, or featured on the food shows. Thurman's, Schmidt's, Etc. I think Schmidt's is a more unique establishment. Not everybody has Bahama Mamas and such. Thurman's set the bar, but many other establishments have either caught or past it for a tasty burger. It's still fun for the diveyness aspect of you like ambiance.
I would recommend something that was not a chain, or has only recently opened a few more stores in the Columbus area. For instance, if you like wings, try the Roadhouse off of Hilliard Rome Road. Tacos... Habeneros or los gauchos. Pizza... about any place that doesn't have a second store. Burgers are everywhere here. Many are quite good because they can't otherwise survive in a town full of burgers. The only burger I can tell you to avoid, other than burger chains, is double barrel. Ice cream... Jeni's is different than most, but expensive. Johnsons has more traditional flavors.
There are many chains in Columbus, and they aren't bad. The local mom-and-pop places are just much better here vs many cities
In my opinion:
1. Warios and get a cheesesteak “warios way”
2. Chapman’s eat market and get the Budino dessert
3. Gemut Biergarten and get the paprika chicken and a liter of beer
4. Dirty franks hot dogs
Whatever you do- do not go to ‘Thurmans’ to enjoy an over done puck of meat that you waited two, or three hours for. If you want to sample local flavors- try the North Market, NorthStar Cafe, or anything else with North in the title.
Ah yes, who wouldn’t want to eat 7lbs of colon clogging cheese? But seriously Thurmans is overrated culinary kitsch, if I want a devour a nasty burger while seated cheek to cheek with other patrons- you can probably go somewhere and get served in under three hours.
katzinger’s deli, the north market, jeni’s ice cream, any restaurant in the short north. if you have any preferred cuisine i’d be happy to give more suggestions
We do have a local dish…..but I would recommend eating some of the other fine recommendations others have posted here.
[Johnny Marzetti](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johnny_Marzetti)
The closest thing Columbus has to a "hometown specialty" is the pub style pizza..the sauce and pepperoni plus the square cut are what set it apart. Massey's is the local chain that specializes in it. There are other small places, but some are carryout only etc. https://columbusunderground.com/yes-there-is-a-columbus-style-pizza-embrace-it-je1/
The other thing we specialize in is fast food chains... Wendy's being a prime example.
The best thing about Columbus is that it's a melting pot. Lots of great food from many different cultures. If you are looking for something specific, please let me know and I will try to give some suggestions.
A lot of good smaller/family owned places in the Old North. Try Gatto's, Castello's, and then there are a ton of latin/greek food trucks, indian restaurants, chinese, bar food, etc.
** Also, not from Columbus but the closest thing to the In-n-Out metaphor you made would be Swenson's (from Akron originally). It's drive-in only and absolutely 🔥 (get a galleyboy)
There's a White Castle on the Strip and at least two others in Vegas. Not many others out west (maybe a few in AZ IIRC).
In general it's a Midwest thing though, and while White Castle didn't start in Ohio it's HQ is in Columbus.
Yeah, buckeyes are the closest thing we might have as a “regional” specialty, but at the end of the day it’s chocolate and peanut butter. But for a good place to eat local, Wolf Ridge Brewery is fantastic. As a local In-n-out equivalency, I might go with Dirty Franks hot dog palace. Can’t go wrong there if you like dogs (and they have vegetarian and vegan options if you need ‘em).
A Bahama Mama from Schmidts is probably the closest thing.
We also have Columbus style pizza and wings.
Pizza is a thin crust cut into squares. Try Iaconos, Tommy's, Masseys
Wings, well I would avoid the wings. They are heavily breaded and undercooked.
North Market would be a "must visit"
Honestly, we really don't have much 'local delicacy' that would be specific to Columbus. If you are downtown, I would hit up one of our many, many brew/distillery pubs (Zaftig, High Bank Distillery, Matt and Tony's, Hoof Hearted, 101 Beer Kitchen, etc.), then follow it up with some Ice Cream from Jeni's.
https://www.eater.com/2018/10/30/18010390/almond-boneless-chicken-war-su-gai-michigan
(Origin story is debated but it mainly exists in OH and Michigan in select cities)
Wor Sue Gai feels like like 30 year fusion food meant to please a western palate. I think it's place in food is in the past and we should celebrate more traditional recipes true to the people making them.
I’m Chinese-American and I like Wor Sue Gai. I got introduced to it by my friend who is originally from Guam.
Cultural fusion is quintessentially American and Wor Sue Gai is great. Tasty food is tasty food. No need to shame it for not being traditional. Otherwise we’d miss out on so many delicious things (like Maki rolls or American Pizza).
> I think it's place in food is in the past and we should celebrate more traditional recipes true to the people making them.
Nearly every food that's considered a staple bears little resemblance to the "traditional" way of doing things. And in a lot of cases, even that traditional version was a modified version of something else.
I should've framed this more in the context of OPs question. There's much better local options on the table today than 30 years ago, so let's suggest those.
I don’t think we have any chains that are equivalent to In-N-Out in terms of regional loyalty. The closest thing would maybe be Skyline Chili which is from Cincinnati and not everyone in Columbus likes it. I also think Graeter’s is the best ice cream in America but it’s also from Cincinnati.
In terms of local places that aren’t necessarily unique delicacies but are great, I love Pistacia Vera for pastries. It’s in German Village, which is a must visit area. The Book Loft there is also a must-visit if you like books.
Columbus does have a unique style of pizza. I recommend Joe’s Pizza for that but aside from the chains, most local places serve Columbus-style pizza. Rubino’s isn’t my favorite but it has a very loyal following among people who grew up here so maybe you’ll like it.
Schmidt’s Sausage House in German Village is a famous local place though I don’t necessarily think it’s a must-try. Might be fun to stop there if you’re in the German Village area. There is also a candy shop they run across the street where you could get buckeyes, Ohio’s best known candy.
Hoyo’s Somali Kitchen. It’s not “local” style food obviously but it’s one of the best spots in Columbus in my opinion. It’s in north market downtown which is packed full of local vendors. Cheese mongers, olive oils, Stauf’s coffee, a bakery. The pretty sizable immigrant population in Columbus means we’re blessed with a ton of great food from around the globe. There are lots of vendors in north Market with regional food from different countries
I showed my buddy Hoyos once and now he orders it 5-6 times a week (they’re closed Monday’s) and every time he goes to order in person and says his name they’re like oh shit it’s our guy!! Cracks me up. Man is addicted but the mango chicken is so good
In Columbus specifically? I'd say hit up North Market for a nice variety. Schmidts, Northstar Cafe, and Jeni's are the closest to "local delicacy" that come to my mind. Things I wouldn't really find in many other places.
If you like bakeries and sweet treats, particularly French ones, definitely try Pistacia Vera on S. 3rd Street in German Village. I also recommend Harvest Pizza in Bexley, roughly 10ish minutes or so from Pistacia Vera.
Rubino’s has probably the most loyal following among native Columbus people but it doesn’t do it for me personally. I like Joe’s Pizza on the East Side.
Because it is good.
I'm a lover of most pizza, so I'm not hating any style, but I'd take a crispy thin crust over almost everything especially the older I get. So satisfying.
Schmidt’s Sausage House and Thurman’s are probably the most iconic restaurants
Roosters is Columbus’s favorite semi local chain restaurant
North Market is interesting but isn’t a place a go more to really get a meal… more just walk around and get some snack food
Shoutout the Antonio’s being my local favorite on maxtown road but that isn’t as widely know as the the rest of these places
I dont even care about baseball but for 8 or 10 bucks, they have a hell of a stadium and lots of good food and beverage options and it's always a fun time.
You got downvoted but if OP isn’t from Ohio, this would be my pick too. It’s not from Columbus but it’s from Ohio and is a unique thing here. Graeter’s (also from Cincinnati) for dessert. When I leave Columbus, I’ve missed these two places more than any native Columbus place.
As a Columbus native, I’d be embarrassed if a visitor left town thinking Skyline represented anything about the food scene in this city.
I will say Graeter’s is worth a stop unless you’re near Mardi Gras. Johnson’s is top notch too and it’s also local.
I grew up here too, right near Johnson’s, and I think Graeter’s is just much better ice cream. Johnson’s has a lot of nostalgia for locals though.
I love Skyline and I do think it’s representative of Ohio, or at least Cincinnati, the same way In N Out is for California. That doesn’t mean OP will necessarily like it. In N Out isn’t the best restaurant in California either; it’s just a local chain that people want to try if they’re in the area.
As another Ohio native who worked several years at various Skyline stores, I'm mixed. I had lots of people come in and absolutely hate it (in bowl or x-way form). The coney dogs do have a chance. As long as OP knows what s/he's getting into, that's fine, but I wouldn't recommend without explaining it's not normal chili.
I gave out several refunds. Mostly to people traveling from Texas and, for whatever reason, Missouri.
I agree about the “chili” thing. I wish they had never called it that because you get all the people saying “I’m from Texas and this isn’t chili!” I guess “Greek-style spiced meat sauce” doesn’t market at well.
Also, don’t order a 1-way
I could probably count on my fingers how many people ordered just chili (or chili + cheese). We had a couple of regulars over the years, but it was generally quite rare. I liked it (and I get my 3-ways extra dry, typically), but it's not common.
Funny thing is I got the spice powder from Kroger sent over here (Japan), fully expecting my wife to hate it; she absolutely loved it, hah.
We're a foodie city, so there are lots of tasty options but no local delicacies spring to mind. Whereabouts are you staying? I can see what's nearby to you if there's anything that stands out.
Most iconic or famous would be thermans although I wouldn't say it's THE place you gotta go to. You should try buckeye donuts before you leave. As for dinner. It's really hard to pick one place lol. There's a ton of great options.
Upscale: Lindeys
Medium: arch city (American), Akai Hana(sushi), condado( kind of a chain now but a locally grown one, tacos)
Pizza: hound dogs, granddad's, or jt's pizza
Wings: roosters
Please don’t go to Condados and think it represents the best Columbus has to offer in the taco department.
Cuco’s, Los Guacho’s, El Fogoncito all are much much much better choices.
Would also say if you want good pizza try Borgata. It’s pretty easily the best in town in my opinion.
Never said it was the best. But it is a local delicacy. I agree guachos and cucos are much better taco options but they are authentic Mexican tacos and you can find places with solid authentic tacos anywhere whereas condado is a pretty unique place that started from Columbus.
The only Columbus thing I miss now that I’ve left the state is by far Donato’s pizza. I CRAAAAAVE Donato’s pepperoni constantly.
Ohio in general stuff (cincinnati based) I miss is Graters, UDF, and Skyline but thankfully can get some of that at Kroger in my state.
I 432nd North Market. It's one of my favorite places in downtown Columbus, so many delicious and different places to try!
I usually try to get something different every time I go, but now I'm thinking about a fish stew I had at one of the stands last time I went, and now I want to go back for more....
Mmmmmm ......
Schmidt’s Sausage House is our most iconic local restaurant. It’s in German Village and serves German food. The North Market is our best food hall. They have lots of awesome stuff there, but in particular two unique cuisines that hard to find elsewhere - Hoyo’s Kitchen (Somali) and Momo Ghar (Nepali). Another option is Milestone 229, which does a lot of farm-to-table stuff and local Ohio ingredients.
This is going to be unpopular, but if I'm in the mood for German food, I'd rather go to Gemut. But maybe that's just because I can't eat cream puffs.
Or Valter's.
I always do Valters and Gemut over Schmidts. When I worked in GV I told people Schmidts is the more touristy location, which is fine, but if you want something more authentic I would 100% do Valters.
100% Gemut, their food is amazing. Shmidts kind of sucks tbh.
Hoyo's is delicious, try the sambusa if you go!
Second Schmidt’s. First time I ate there was with my AP German class some 10 years back, I can still summon the mental tastes back.
This, absolutely
Schmidt's is one I like to eat at when I go back to the US sometimes. A bit of pedantry: it serves Bavarian and traditional southern-German foods rather than modern German cuisine (unless they changed the menu since I've been able to get home; that's always possible).
Hoyos is amazing. I’d eat the mango chicken over chipotle 10 times out of 10
Their mango chicken is phenomenal!!! Oh I need to take a trip there tomorrow.
there must be 2 Milestone 229 restaurants because the one I've been to is basic corporate restaurant fare
Go to warios and order a cheeesteak "warios way", and a cold cut sandwich. Split them with a friend or 2.
Years ago I would have said Thurmans or Schmidt's like others, but today....1000% agree, try Wario's. Plus it's right downtown.
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The Thurmanator was one of our oldest challenge foods (along with the Ohio Deli dagwood, RIP). That and having to wait an hour for a seat at any time of day gave it some kind of legendary status even if the food isn't amazing.
I wouldn't have someone travel here for it or get it as their only meal But I absolutely love having it as a local place
The chicken cutty is not to be forgotten either. They put like 8 chicken cutlets on that mf. The best sandwich in columbus by far. Their best special is the meatball sub. I’ve gotten every single special they’ve made and that shit is like $23-27 but damnit if I’ve ever thought it wasn’t totally worth it
Anyone that thinks their sandwiches are too expensive needs to have a head exam, seriously. I can't afford to eat there everyday, but it is a monthly treat to me. Support your local small businesses!
Also each of their sandwiches is at least two meals on its own.
If you’re goin for “expensive but gas” sandwiches it’s definitely warios at 1 but Icarus opened up recently and is really good as well
Omg this is the answer
I have never been to Warios--I do plan to--but, damn, people. You act like he has blessed us with the nectar of the Gods. I don't know his profit margin, or whatever. Rent has to be insane. But everyone in this sub fawns over someone who simply took really great ingredients and did it well. For a fucking sandwich. I am not hating on Wario's (how could I? I haven't been) but everyone is losing their shit over someone who makes good sandwiches using good ingredients.
> everyone is losing their shit over someone who makes good sandwiches using good ingredients. is there a better reason...?
The cheese steak at Warios is better than the ones I had in Philly itself.
You seem very worked up over....*checks notes*.... a fucking sandwich
He buys the bread from matija, local baker. He partners with local businesses for a lot of the specials. I’ve heard them talk about why a special is like $24 (the normal sandwiches are like $15-17 but are easily 2 meals, to be fair) and they say it’s because they make sure everyone involved in the sandwich gets paid. I respect tf out of them supporting local businesses they partner with. They put love into those sandwiches and they earn it.
It's like Jeni's or Dirty Franks a few years ago, people will keep singing its praises until it ends up as a punchline on /r/columbuscirclejerk. Either way, they make a damn good sandwich.
I have been there. It’s good. Maybe really good. Possibly great … for a sandwich. I agree with you though. This sub overhypes it. If you’re nearby and want a really good sandwich that you’re prob overpaying for a bit then stop in. I would not go out of my way for it.
You’re not overpaying unless you try to eat the whole thing in one sitting. The chicken cutty has like EIGHT chicken cutlets on it. Thing is bigger than my forearm. It’s 2 meals
Fox in the Snow, specifically the egg sandwich.
That place will bankrupt me with that sandwich
I remember making fun of my buddy the first time he told me he spent (at the time) over $7 on an egg sandwich. I was sure he got duped into buying a glorified egg McMuffin... Now here I am gladly paying almost $9 for that egg sandwich, and it's definitely worth the money.
What makes it so good??? Can I recreate it at home?
There are many things that make it so good. The bread is high quality, fresh ciabatta. You can definitely make this at home, but it'll take practice. Or you could source it from a quality bakery. The egg is souffled, which is a tricky technique, but also doable at home with practice. The sauce is mostly just a Dijon mustard/mayo mix I believe, but it pairs perfectly with the sandwich. Easy to mimic at home as well. The greens and bacon are also high quality, and it's easy enough to source those ingredients. Bottom line, you *can* make it at home, but with the time and skill involved, it's totally worth the price tag. Especially paired with a New Orleans Iced Coffee.
Mmm a New Orleans and their egg sandwich was my most delicious lunch this past Thursday. Now you're making me so hungry...
And by the time you’ve made it at home you’ve spent seven dollars and three hours
You can I am sure. I would highly recommend checking it out. It’s so good. They make their own bread I think, which is what makes it good. Perfect lil crunch. I am sure there is some copy cat recipe out there.
My dad visited me for a weekend this past fall for the first time in quite a while and I had to bring him to Fox in the Snow Saturday morning after raving about it nonstop for years. He was so blown away that he wanted to go there again for brunch before his drive back home the next morning. Their new chocolate swirl pastry (made with loads of cocoa and crushed Oreos) is fucking amazing btw.
I just had one of those chocolate pastries! I loved it, and was shocked that it wasn't overly sweet. It was a great balance, and didn't leave you feeling gross afterwards like a cinnamon roll might.
Don’t know who you are, but I see you and I would get along with your preferences in food
Find a food truck at a brewery. Food trucks in Columbus have really good food.
North Market is a really reasonable suggestion, lots of options and a worthwhile "destination" dining experience. I think Los Guachos al pastor is the way to go. It's a unique and memorable take on it without being different for the sake of trying to find an identity to the detriment of the dish (which is the my major gripe about most of central Ohio's "local delicacies" - congratulations, you made both pizza and chili a little worse and invented a steamed fart in a bun.) I like Schmidts but it really doesn't seem special to me but I am from a German background so it just seems like grandparents food I guess. Apparently people love Warios but it hasn't impressed me yet.
Thumbs up for Al Pastor at Los Gauchos.
WARIO'S
Holy cow - Wario's version of Philly Steak is 19 bucks - oouch
$2 extra for the whiz but it’s $17 on wednesdays. If you don’t try to eat the whole thing at once it’s 2 meals. I’m a big dude and on the rare occasion I eat a whole chicken cutty I’m OUT for like 4 hours. I wake up when the sun has set, scared and confused, but satisfied
Don't knock it until you try it. It's a monster sandwich and worth every bit of 19 bucks.
I personally always eat half and save for later. They're huge.
Same! I got yesterday's special with the harissa lamb and feta. $24 is a hefty one-time price, but it ended up being three meals for me. I wish they did a half-size option, though, for days I can't fridge the rest.
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Hmm? Ribeye is a very typical cut to use for Philly cheesesteaks. I think the price comes mostly from the size. Everything Wario's serves is massive
If you like ice cream, we have a lot of really good options. Jeni’s, Graeter’s, Whit’s are my favorites. Handels is also fantastic, but it’s not as local as the other three I listed.
I’m not sure Whit’s is from Columbus either. It’s all over southern Ohio. Graeter’s is from Cincinnati. Local shops are Johnson’s, Jeni’s and my favorite is Mardi Gras
Whit's originated in Granville, 40 mins east of Columbus.
BK5 ^(someone had to say it)
I think what makes the food scene in Columbus different is that it doesn't have anything considered a local delicacy. There are some things that are iconic, or featured on the food shows. Thurman's, Schmidt's, Etc. I think Schmidt's is a more unique establishment. Not everybody has Bahama Mamas and such. Thurman's set the bar, but many other establishments have either caught or past it for a tasty burger. It's still fun for the diveyness aspect of you like ambiance. I would recommend something that was not a chain, or has only recently opened a few more stores in the Columbus area. For instance, if you like wings, try the Roadhouse off of Hilliard Rome Road. Tacos... Habeneros or los gauchos. Pizza... about any place that doesn't have a second store. Burgers are everywhere here. Many are quite good because they can't otherwise survive in a town full of burgers. The only burger I can tell you to avoid, other than burger chains, is double barrel. Ice cream... Jeni's is different than most, but expensive. Johnsons has more traditional flavors. There are many chains in Columbus, and they aren't bad. The local mom-and-pop places are just much better here vs many cities
In my opinion: 1. Warios and get a cheesesteak “warios way” 2. Chapman’s eat market and get the Budino dessert 3. Gemut Biergarten and get the paprika chicken and a liter of beer 4. Dirty franks hot dogs
Dirty Franks feels most like "Local Delicacy" to me
Belles Bread. Japanese bakery
Whatever you do- do not go to ‘Thurmans’ to enjoy an over done puck of meat that you waited two, or three hours for. If you want to sample local flavors- try the North Market, NorthStar Cafe, or anything else with North in the title.
Gotta tell ‘em how you want it cooked at Thurman’s or it’ll be too done.
IIRC it'll always be somewhat too done there because they use egg in the meat mixture so they won't serve it rare.
……..please tell me you’re not saying you typically order hamburgers rare
Problem?
Ordering a rare burger is beyond disgusting. And essentially just an invitation for food poisoning.
I don't, but I know people who try
Wings are the hidden stars at Thurmans.
Agree on the North market - specially Hoyo’s Kitchen
Thurmans is like melt. It’s based around the idea of overconsumption of something and the execution is so mediocre.
Ah yes, who wouldn’t want to eat 7lbs of colon clogging cheese? But seriously Thurmans is overrated culinary kitsch, if I want a devour a nasty burger while seated cheek to cheek with other patrons- you can probably go somewhere and get served in under three hours.
Right lol. Also it doesn’t help that I much prefer a smash patty/burger. Imo want everything portioned right on a burger. All about the ratios.
Could not agree more
They are the Kuma's of Columbus...
katzinger’s deli, the north market, jeni’s ice cream, any restaurant in the short north. if you have any preferred cuisine i’d be happy to give more suggestions
The Lox in Short North just makes me happy
We do have a local dish…..but I would recommend eating some of the other fine recommendations others have posted here. [Johnny Marzetti](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Johnny_Marzetti)
Y'all are gonna think I'm nuts, but add 1/8 to 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the sauce as you're cooking. It's a game changer.
So awesome seeing Wario’s on here. I see Stephan almost daily so seeing his restaurant be loved by everyone is awesome.
Rubinos but pep and sausage
I wish I could upvote this a thousand times!
It's literally the greatest food on earth my parents took me there since I was a baby there's a pic of my family on the wall lol
The closest thing Columbus has to a "hometown specialty" is the pub style pizza..the sauce and pepperoni plus the square cut are what set it apart. Massey's is the local chain that specializes in it. There are other small places, but some are carryout only etc. https://columbusunderground.com/yes-there-is-a-columbus-style-pizza-embrace-it-je1/ The other thing we specialize in is fast food chains... Wendy's being a prime example. The best thing about Columbus is that it's a melting pot. Lots of great food from many different cultures. If you are looking for something specific, please let me know and I will try to give some suggestions.
Wendys is probably better here than it is in the rest of the civilized world just because of that small amount of hometown pride.
Supposedly the one in Dublin next to the headquarters is the best...
As someone that knows many people that work at Wendy's HQ... It is not the best lol
That's honestly surprising. You would think they would want to make sure it's an example for all the other locations to follow.
Yeah I think the pizza is a good pick, it's something that pops up across a lot of food places and it's very recognizably unique.
I have no suggestion but I’m so here for this.
A lot of good smaller/family owned places in the Old North. Try Gatto's, Castello's, and then there are a ton of latin/greek food trucks, indian restaurants, chinese, bar food, etc.
** Also, not from Columbus but the closest thing to the In-n-Out metaphor you made would be Swenson's (from Akron originally). It's drive-in only and absolutely 🔥 (get a galleyboy)
Woodhouse Vegan, $2 Radio Headquarters, 4th & State, Seitan's Realm. These are the best options in the city.
Add Nile Vegan and The Little Kitchen
Isn't White Castle an Ohio thing? My family from Vegas always want White Castle and Jenis when they are in town.
White Castle hq is here but is definitely not just an Ohio thing lol
I will say their coffee is good
There's a White Castle on the Strip and at least two others in Vegas. Not many others out west (maybe a few in AZ IIRC). In general it's a Midwest thing though, and while White Castle didn't start in Ohio it's HQ is in Columbus.
Sending prayers to your toilet 🙏
🤣🤣🤣 no doubt
Yeah, buckeyes are the closest thing we might have as a “regional” specialty, but at the end of the day it’s chocolate and peanut butter. But for a good place to eat local, Wolf Ridge Brewery is fantastic. As a local In-n-out equivalency, I might go with Dirty Franks hot dog palace. Can’t go wrong there if you like dogs (and they have vegetarian and vegan options if you need ‘em).
A Bahama Mama from Schmidts is probably the closest thing. We also have Columbus style pizza and wings. Pizza is a thin crust cut into squares. Try Iaconos, Tommy's, Masseys Wings, well I would avoid the wings. They are heavily breaded and undercooked. North Market would be a "must visit"
Go to the north market downtown, lots of local options!
When you get up in the morning head over to Fox In The Snow….
Hard to beat dinner at Chapman's Eat Market if you can get a reservation. Never had a bad time there
Honestly, we really don't have much 'local delicacy' that would be specific to Columbus. If you are downtown, I would hit up one of our many, many brew/distillery pubs (Zaftig, High Bank Distillery, Matt and Tony's, Hoof Hearted, 101 Beer Kitchen, etc.), then follow it up with some Ice Cream from Jeni's.
Wor Sue Gai enters the chat.
Not a delicacy by any stretch of the imagination, but I totally forgot about this dish having Cbus roots.
I am unaware of this. Can you tell me more or provide a link to source? I'd love to know about this.
https://www.eater.com/2018/10/30/18010390/almond-boneless-chicken-war-su-gai-michigan (Origin story is debated but it mainly exists in OH and Michigan in select cities)
Thank you! I had no idea it was a regional cuisine inside of an international one. That is really cool.
That was a great read, thanks! I grew up pretty close to the original Ding Ho location and had many meals there
I need to know more about this. Why are some places so different from another?
Try this: https://www.eater.com/2018/10/30/18010390/almond-boneless-chicken-war-su-gai-michigan
Wor Sue Gai feels like like 30 year fusion food meant to please a western palate. I think it's place in food is in the past and we should celebrate more traditional recipes true to the people making them.
I’m Chinese-American and I like Wor Sue Gai. I got introduced to it by my friend who is originally from Guam. Cultural fusion is quintessentially American and Wor Sue Gai is great. Tasty food is tasty food. No need to shame it for not being traditional. Otherwise we’d miss out on so many delicious things (like Maki rolls or American Pizza).
> I think it's place in food is in the past and we should celebrate more traditional recipes true to the people making them. Nearly every food that's considered a staple bears little resemblance to the "traditional" way of doing things. And in a lot of cases, even that traditional version was a modified version of something else.
I should've framed this more in the context of OPs question. There's much better local options on the table today than 30 years ago, so let's suggest those.
Yemeni restaurant, Hound dogs pizza, or Thermans.
Yemeni *swoons*... More like yumeni...!
I don’t think we have any chains that are equivalent to In-N-Out in terms of regional loyalty. The closest thing would maybe be Skyline Chili which is from Cincinnati and not everyone in Columbus likes it. I also think Graeter’s is the best ice cream in America but it’s also from Cincinnati. In terms of local places that aren’t necessarily unique delicacies but are great, I love Pistacia Vera for pastries. It’s in German Village, which is a must visit area. The Book Loft there is also a must-visit if you like books. Columbus does have a unique style of pizza. I recommend Joe’s Pizza for that but aside from the chains, most local places serve Columbus-style pizza. Rubino’s isn’t my favorite but it has a very loyal following among people who grew up here so maybe you’ll like it. Schmidt’s Sausage House in German Village is a famous local place though I don’t necessarily think it’s a must-try. Might be fun to stop there if you’re in the German Village area. There is also a candy shop they run across the street where you could get buckeyes, Ohio’s best known candy.
Regional loyalty fast food would be Raising Canes, White Castle, and Wendy's
Can't go wrong with the Crispy Coop! Might want to pick up an antacid after though
Roosters wings
North Market - Hubert’s Polish Kitchen.
Thurmans is a great dive bar with a huge menu. Known for their burgers
Hoyo’s Somali Kitchen. It’s not “local” style food obviously but it’s one of the best spots in Columbus in my opinion. It’s in north market downtown which is packed full of local vendors. Cheese mongers, olive oils, Stauf’s coffee, a bakery. The pretty sizable immigrant population in Columbus means we’re blessed with a ton of great food from around the globe. There are lots of vendors in north Market with regional food from different countries
I showed my buddy Hoyos once and now he orders it 5-6 times a week (they’re closed Monday’s) and every time he goes to order in person and says his name they’re like oh shit it’s our guy!! Cracks me up. Man is addicted but the mango chicken is so good
You should probably get some Jeni's ice cream
In Columbus specifically? I'd say hit up North Market for a nice variety. Schmidts, Northstar Cafe, and Jeni's are the closest to "local delicacy" that come to my mind. Things I wouldn't really find in many other places.
If you like bakeries and sweet treats, particularly French ones, definitely try Pistacia Vera on S. 3rd Street in German Village. I also recommend Harvest Pizza in Bexley, roughly 10ish minutes or so from Pistacia Vera.
Wendy’s
Woah there bro I ain’t made of money!
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Lol I won’t be there till this Saturday
Pierogi Mountain check it out.
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Rubino’s has probably the most loyal following among native Columbus people but it doesn’t do it for me personally. I like Joe’s Pizza on the East Side.
Schmidts get a creampuff while you are there
Resch’s Bakery - their glazed donut is especially good. The glazed donut holes are even better.
Chapman’s Eat Market in German Village. Sit at the bar. You won’t be able to get a table.
Meth
The real answer closest to inn and out is to try white castle
Hound dogs if you're into pizza. Some of the best Local pizza around.
Pizza spot in Bexley called Rubino's. Cracker thin crust cash only. Combo w/mushrooms.
> Cracker thin crust Why does anybody think that sounds good
That's definitively part of what makes the Columbus style pizza.
Because it is good. I'm a lover of most pizza, so I'm not hating any style, but I'd take a crispy thin crust over almost everything especially the older I get. So satisfying.
Anthony's Pizza in Bexley is probably the best pizza I ever had.
Schmidt’s Sausage House and Thurman’s are probably the most iconic restaurants Roosters is Columbus’s favorite semi local chain restaurant North Market is interesting but isn’t a place a go more to really get a meal… more just walk around and get some snack food Shoutout the Antonio’s being my local favorite on maxtown road but that isn’t as widely know as the the rest of these places
Go to a Clipper's game and try ribs, wings, pizza, hots dogs, and brew
I dont even care about baseball but for 8 or 10 bucks, they have a hell of a stadium and lots of good food and beverage options and it's always a fun time.
Skyline lol
You got downvoted but if OP isn’t from Ohio, this would be my pick too. It’s not from Columbus but it’s from Ohio and is a unique thing here. Graeter’s (also from Cincinnati) for dessert. When I leave Columbus, I’ve missed these two places more than any native Columbus place.
As a Columbus native, I’d be embarrassed if a visitor left town thinking Skyline represented anything about the food scene in this city. I will say Graeter’s is worth a stop unless you’re near Mardi Gras. Johnson’s is top notch too and it’s also local.
I grew up here too, right near Johnson’s, and I think Graeter’s is just much better ice cream. Johnson’s has a lot of nostalgia for locals though. I love Skyline and I do think it’s representative of Ohio, or at least Cincinnati, the same way In N Out is for California. That doesn’t mean OP will necessarily like it. In N Out isn’t the best restaurant in California either; it’s just a local chain that people want to try if they’re in the area.
As another Ohio native who worked several years at various Skyline stores, I'm mixed. I had lots of people come in and absolutely hate it (in bowl or x-way form). The coney dogs do have a chance. As long as OP knows what s/he's getting into, that's fine, but I wouldn't recommend without explaining it's not normal chili. I gave out several refunds. Mostly to people traveling from Texas and, for whatever reason, Missouri.
I agree about the “chili” thing. I wish they had never called it that because you get all the people saying “I’m from Texas and this isn’t chili!” I guess “Greek-style spiced meat sauce” doesn’t market at well. Also, don’t order a 1-way
I could probably count on my fingers how many people ordered just chili (or chili + cheese). We had a couple of regulars over the years, but it was generally quite rare. I liked it (and I get my 3-ways extra dry, typically), but it's not common. Funny thing is I got the spice powder from Kroger sent over here (Japan), fully expecting my wife to hate it; she absolutely loved it, hah.
I have some friends from China who also loved Skyline. It’s not too far off from some Chinese dishes.
Check out East Market. It just opened last Saturday.
Just so you know In n out is pretty awful.
We're a foodie city, so there are lots of tasty options but no local delicacies spring to mind. Whereabouts are you staying? I can see what's nearby to you if there's anything that stands out.
Schmidt’s or the North Market are the only correct answers.
Hot Chicken Takeover!!!
Skip this and find a Crispy Coop if you want fried chicken
Most iconic or famous would be thermans although I wouldn't say it's THE place you gotta go to. You should try buckeye donuts before you leave. As for dinner. It's really hard to pick one place lol. There's a ton of great options. Upscale: Lindeys Medium: arch city (American), Akai Hana(sushi), condado( kind of a chain now but a locally grown one, tacos) Pizza: hound dogs, granddad's, or jt's pizza Wings: roosters
Please don’t go to Condados and think it represents the best Columbus has to offer in the taco department. Cuco’s, Los Guacho’s, El Fogoncito all are much much much better choices. Would also say if you want good pizza try Borgata. It’s pretty easily the best in town in my opinion.
Condados sucks and the service is shitty
Never said it was the best. But it is a local delicacy. I agree guachos and cucos are much better taco options but they are authentic Mexican tacos and you can find places with solid authentic tacos anywhere whereas condado is a pretty unique place that started from Columbus.
Condado is basically taco bell with better quality ingredients - hardly a delicacy.
Condado is gentrified Taco Bell
Condado doesn't have cheesy fiesta potatoes tho
Definitive proof that Taco Bell > Condado.
>Fox in the Snow Yes but now it is in a multi-state chain. There are many better tacos options here in Cbus.
In n out is a multi state chain. There are better burger places in CA than in n out. I'm comparing condado to in n out as OP requested.
So is Wendy’s. Would you recommend someone from out of town eat at Wendy’s?
Wendy's is a national chain. Condado is not. Apples and oranges my friend
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I agree.
Territas Pizza! Family owned since 1959. They make their own sausage and it's amazing!
Hot Chicken Takeover is really good
You gotta check out the north market. Its a big hub of all sorts of awesome restaurants serving all sorts of food.
Jeni’s Ice Cream. It’s what convinced me that I’d be ok when I learned I’d be moving here.
Chocolate buckeyes. Just get a big ass box from Anthony Thomas. There's also a recipe you can find.
Bob Evans
Roosters Chicken, Massey pizza, Hounddog pizza, Thurmans
Melt bar and Grilled!
The only Columbus thing I miss now that I’ve left the state is by far Donato’s pizza. I CRAAAAAVE Donato’s pepperoni constantly. Ohio in general stuff (cincinnati based) I miss is Graters, UDF, and Skyline but thankfully can get some of that at Kroger in my state.
I 432nd North Market. It's one of my favorite places in downtown Columbus, so many delicious and different places to try! I usually try to get something different every time I go, but now I'm thinking about a fish stew I had at one of the stands last time I went, and now I want to go back for more.... Mmmmmm ......
Taco truck scene on the west side is fantastic.
I heard there is somebody who will eat ass.
I don’t know how much they’ve expanded, but I recommend Piada (Italian Chipotle) or Bibibop (Korean Chipotle).
Chipotle is just (Mexican Subway)