It's no secret that Columbus is a hotspot for foodies. From the Short North's upscale eateries to hidden gems scattered beyond High Street, this city never leaves stomachs unsatisfied. Although it may be tempting to hide away in the cold winter months with a bowl of Progresso, now is the perfect time to explore the incredible tastes Columbus has to offer.
If you're looking to escape the city and still snag a delicious dinner, Dublin, Ohio is a must-visit. The Columbus suburb offers a diverse food scene without the city crowds. Whether guests are craving casual dining, a locally brewed beer or live entertainment in an intimate setting, there are endless options to explore.
Brews and Bites
Photo courtesy of Getaway Brewing Co.
Brews
On the banks of the Scioto River, Getaway Brewing Company offers a social atmosphere to gather with loved ones who like to get loud. It has a wide selection of craft brews to try and a buy-one-get-one-free deal on beer. The brewery also has a wide selection of snacks – including smoked cheeses and dry-cured meats to make your own charcuterie board – all made to complement your beverages. For a more intimate space, the attached sunlight greenhouse can be an oasis escape with its retractable glass door. Filled with natural light during the day and a beautiful view of the sunset in the evening, this space is perfect for catching up with longtime friends over some drinks and snacks.
Decadent Desserts
Courtesy of Cap City Fine Diner
Cap City Dining Room
Cap City Fine Diner and Bar is perfect for families with picky eaters, because everything is good. The menu includes Southern fried chicken with buttermilk mashed potatoes and unique offerings like the triple decker grilled cheese with crispy bacon and fried eggs. If packed dinner plates aren’t your thing, Cap City does have special lunch and brunch offerings which can be a great way to ease your guests into town after a recent flight or long drive. First-time visitors to Dublin can’t leave without sampling Cap City’s iconic three-layer “seriously big chocolate cake.”
Fits the Whole Family
Photo courtesy of Visit Dublin
Café Istanbul
For a comforting taste and a gorgeous view of the Scioto River, try Café Istanbul. Large windows fill the restaurant with natural lighting and set the date night mood. Café Istanbul has a wide selection of kebabs, pizzas, wraps, seafood and desserts. Karniyarik, or stuffed eggplant, fills oven-roasted eggplant with seasoned ground beef and lamb, vegetables and herbs. The restaurant also serves a variety of drinks from the classics, like a whiskey sour, to internationally influenced cocktails such as Fashion Week Milano, featuring Nutella, Disaronno Amaretto and pineapple.
Top it Off!
Feel on top of the world as you take in the views from the rooftop lounge at VASO. The warm lighting inside and out creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for a happy hour, a special celebration or a spontaneous night out that feels upscale. Go big with the grilled filet mignon or seafood paella, or share tapas like the prosciutto flatbread and truffled Yukon potatoes. Plus, frigid temperatures don’t mar the view as VASO offers heated, LED-lit igloos for up to seven guests to sit outside even on the harshest winter days.
New and Notable
Courtesy of Cameron Mitchell Restaurant
Valentina's Logo
The Cameron Mitchell Restaurant Company expanded it's savory presence in Dublin in 2023 with a new Italian eatery. Valentina's brings a piece of Italy to Dublin with a mozzarella bar, wood grilled steaks and, of course, lots of pasta. The eatery brings back Cameron Mitchell classics such as the Famous Braised Veal Meatball, while bringing in new tastes such as their stuffed pastas. Enjoy authentic Italian tastes with Valentina's extensive menu, and don't forget to end your meal with some delicious dolce.
An Oldie but Goodie
Courtesy of Dublin Village Tavern
Head to Historic Downtown Dublin, and spend your night with pints and potatoes at this Irish-inspired pub. With a rich history and even richer warm triple chocolate brownies, a trip to the Dublin Village Tavern is not simply a meal, but rather, an experience. Warm up with more than 40 brands of Irish Whiskey, sip in true Irish manor with a Guinness or mix things up with a specialty cocktail. After you explore the historic building, feed your appetite with Irish classics such as braised beef shepherd's pie or tavern meatloaf.
Mike Maynard is an editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group. Feedback welcome at feedback@cityscenemediagroup.com.
