
Photo courtesy of Greg Davis via Watershed Kitchen & Bar
The modern digs of the Watershed Kitchen & Bar are located smack dab in the center of the Watershed Distillery and production facility, which can make it a bit difficult to find. Of course, that's part of the reason we love it so much. The bar whips out approachable yet surprising cocktails crafted from spirits distilled on site, so while you're sipping, you can learn about the process behind the drink. Of course, the cocktails are just half of the equation. Settle down in the dining room to enjoy a Midwestern meal crafted with local and seasonal ingredients. The philosophy here is honest food, honest drinks, respect for ingredients, and respect for people — and it's definitely one we can get behind.
Photo courtesy of Kuya Ian's Bistro
Filipino food has finally made its mark on Columbus in the form of Kuya Ian's Bistro. This family-owned spot might look unassuming from the outside, but the menu is filled with soul-warming cuisine from the Philippines that impresses even the most discerning of palates. The prices are low, the portions are generous, and the friendly atmosphere will bring you back again and again.
Photo courtesy of Cosecha Cocina
Following their other successful concepts, Harvest Pizzeria and The Sycamore, Grow Restaurants made the leap into Mexican cuisine with Cosecha Cocina, which has been wildly successful since its debut in mid-March. The restaurant is housed in a charming refurbished barn, and the menu includes inventive small plates and shareables that are steeped in Mexican influence, but incorporate a modern twist.
Photo courtesy of The Keep
Located in the historic LeVeque Tower, the Keep Liquor Bar is a modern French brasserie and cocktail lounge that pays homage to the speakeasies of the 20s and film noir while offering its own modern take. The state-of-the-art beverage program includes regional craft beers, specialty cocktails, and a wide variety of wine by the glass or the bottle, and the menu is filled with French classics and surprising combinations that are sure to wow.
Photo courtesy of the Olive Branch Coffee and Pizzeria
The Olive Branch offers up excellent coffee and scratch-made pizza, which means our two favorite things have finally collided. Where else can you enjoy a soul-warming espresso drink alongside woodfired pizza? All menu items are made to order and customized entirely to your preferences — so you can choose one topping or all of them. Regardless, we're sure it will be delicious.
Photo courtesy of the South Village Grille
Nestled in the heart of German Village, the South Village Grille offers up a range of casual American favorites (think: pizza, steaks, and oysters on the half shell) in a swanky, upscale space. The libations menu is no less impressive, featuring local ciders and beers, craft cocktails, and a selection of wines from all over the world.
Photo courtesy of Trism
This fast-casual eatery and bar is filled with flavor — and we're not just talking about the food. The vibrant space, complete with colorful murals and modern decor, is nothing short of picturesque, and makes the perfect setting to catch up with friends or coworkers over lunch. The homemade poptarts are one of the most popular menu items, and recently landed on our list of the most instagrammable dishes in Columbus.
Photo courtesy of Drunch
Drunch might be a brunch centric concept, but the lunch and dinner menus are no less impressive. The menu is a brilliant collaboration of five difference chefs, and features scratch-made entrées with local ingredients. Expect hearty menu items like avocado fries, wings, chicken and waffles, flatbreads, and more — as well as an impressive lineup of craft cocktails.
Photo courtesy of Trillium Kitchen & Patio
Nestled in the University District, Trillium offers a lively front porch, rustic and modern dining spaces, and an intimate wine-tasting area. So regardless of the feel you're looking for, you'll find it here. The menu is truly a step above the rest, boasting innovative combinations, flavorful ingredients and global influences. Pair your choice with a selection from the carefully curated wine and cocktail menu, and make sure you take advantage of happy hour daily from 4-6 pm!