The 12 Most Exciting New Dining Spots in Columbus, Ohio

Bringing a touch of Spain to the quiet suburb of Upper Arlington, Lupo, led by chef Rick Lopez (of La Tavola fame), serves up sophisticated tapas. Lopez’s protégé, Todd Elder, curates a dynamic menu that features fresh seafood and roasted meats, complemented by an exceptional selection of sherry, vermouth, and unique amari. The vibrant maroon-walled space, once a bank, can get lively, adding to its energetic atmosphere. Be sure to try the house-made bread to savor every sauce.

The anticipation for chefs Matthew Heaggans and Catie Randazzo to launch Ambrose and Eve would have been unbearable if not for their old-school smashburger pop-up. (And fortunately, it’s still going strong.) At Preston’s various spots—ranging from a food truck to the order-at-the-window kitchens within Woodlands bars—the duo serves up some of the most talked-about burgers in town, alongside elevated fast food classics like hot chicken, fried fish sandwiches, and house-made “Funyuns.”

At High Bank in Grandview, an arcade meets a bar meets a distillery in a vast, airy setting. The 8,000-square-foot venue features a restaurant, arcade, and patio, with 14-foot windows showcasing the stills where organic gin, vodka, and rye are crafted. Its impressive size and welcoming American fare make it a favorite hangout for groups and young adults.

In a thriving beer scene, the Scottish brewery Brewdog has made a strong impression in Columbus with three locations. The Franklinton venue stands out with its close proximity to Downtown, ample patio seating, and a rooftop bar offering stunning city skyline views. While the pub fare is solid, patrons flock here for the impressive 24-tap beer selection featuring Brewdog IPAs and notable guest craft brews from across the United States.

As Service Bar celebrates its first anniversary, the buzz around Middle West Spirits’ dining venture continues to grow. Chef Avishar Barua blends humor with expertise to craft some of the city’s most inventive and well-executed dishes, transforming humble takeout favorites into gourmet delights—like his Big Mac reimagined with bone marrow and a smoked bacon-infused patty, or the cheesy brisket crunch featuring oak-smoked beef and crispy roti. Be sure to enjoy the cocktails too, mixed at the striking, salvaged 19th-century back bar.

Curious about the latest local craze? It's the bagels at The Lox Bagel Shop. Operated by seasoned chef Kevin Crowley (Northstar Cafe, Third & Hollywood) with assistance from chef Silas Caeton (Cosecha Cocina, Veritas), this charming cafe features bagels baked over live fire. You can't go wrong with their house-smoked lox paired with zesty pickles, but don’t overlook the tender pork sandwich, enriched with salsa verde and cream cheese.

Harvey & Ed’s, the latest gem from Cameron Mitchell, adds to his impressive Short North collection. This venue pays tribute to the traditional Jewish deli with a refined bistro ambiance and none of the usual kitsch. As with all of Mitchell’s establishments, expect impeccable execution and attentive service. Forego the pastrami and try the brisket or house-cured salmon served with a Block’s bagel and creamy whipped cheese.

After years of anticipation, Chef Josh Dalton has relocated his renowned suburban Mytoury to the heart of downtown Columbus. Veritas now graces a tranquil stretch of Gay Street with a larger, more refined space, while maintaining its reputation for excellence. The restaurant continues to delight with inventive six- and nine-course tasting menus, featuring meticulously sourced ingredients and a touch of modernist flair.

While Veritas may steal the spotlight, its sister establishment on the Citizens building’s lobby level deserves its own acclaim. With its horseshoe-shaped bar and grand furniture, the expansive former bank lobby with its stone and vaulted ceilings comes alive. Each evening, the space buzzes with patrons drawn in by expertly crafted cocktails made with scientific precision.

Housed in a repurposed antique store—an homage to its name—Antiques on High serves as Seventh Son Brewing’s hub for sour beers. Enthusiasts flock for the seven sours on tap, while cocktail aficionados revel in a menu crafted by the renowned Travis Owens (formerly of Curio). The space boasts mid-century modern basement vibes, a touch of beer nostalgia, and whimsical yellow lighting, making it an inviting spot to linger. A food truck on the back patio ensures you can pair your Wax Poetic, a recommended sour blonde ale, with a savory bite.

Entering Ambrose and Eve feels like stepping into a stylish grandmother’s dining room—warm, inviting, with floral wallpaper and a wall of nostalgic childhood photos. This Brewery District gem, founded by well-regarded food truck pioneers Catie Randazzo and Matthew Heaggans, serves dishes inspired by their childhood memories. Expect delicacies like chicken liver mousse with onion jam, veal sweetbread nuggets, and ricotta gnudi with chicken and dumplings.

With its crisp white decor that strikes a perfect balance between chic and cozy, Comune has quickly become a go-to spot since its debut. This plant-based gem appeals to both omnivores and vegans with its beautifully crafted vegetarian dishes meant for sharing, all complemented by a selection of organic wines. Chef Ben Kanavel (formerly of Worthington Inn and Alana’s Food and Wine) serves up standout plates like semolina pappardelle with a rich walnut-maitake bolognese, roasted acorn squash with lentil dal in a fragrant herb jus, and crispy kimchi rice topped with a perfectly soft-boiled egg.