This the place for recommendations – somewhere you think should be on this website but isn’t (yet). Tell us the name, what type of food and where it is and we will try to check it out. It might take us a while, but we’ll do our best. We are always looking for hidden gems so please help us out, let us know if there is somewhere we have missed.
Thanks.
alt.eats.columbus 
Great concept! It would be wonderful if you could comment on the vegetarian friendliness of restaurants as you review them. I’m an adventurous eater but prefer to avoid meat main dishes. 🙂
Excellent point. We’ll make an effort to evaluate and comment on vegetarian friendliness from here on out.
If you are looking for Amazing Indian food, please try Amul India @ 5871 Sawmill Road (stripmall). The food there is delicious. I never liked Indian food until I ate there. Enjoy!
I’m not sure it fits with what you’re trying to do, but would you consider grading the restaurants, say giving it 3/5 stars or something? You could always change if you visited again and felt a change was needed. Thanks, and it looks superb. I really like all the photos.
Thanks!
Regarding grades, that’s a tough one – we’ve talked about a rating system, but at this stage decided against it for 3 reasons:
*There may be restaurants that we only try once, and it’s not really fair to give a grade based upon a single experience.
*Some of the restaurants may be excellent at a few dishes, but overall so-so (or vice versa).
*We recognize that our opinions should only be taken so seriously. We love that people respect us enough to seek rating information, but we’re not entirely comfortable with, say, giving a rating to a Senegalese restaurant after having only tried Senegalese cuisine for the first (and perhaps only) time.
Have you tried Zanzabar’s, a creole place across from the Lincoln Theater? I have not eaten there but heard it was good.
Zanzibar is news to us… big thanks for the tip, we’ll check it out!
If you’re looking for congee, try Hometown Deli on Bethel Road, or Lee Garden up on Sawmill? I’m a huge fan of hometown’s congee with pork and organ meats.
Thanks for the suggestions Matt. We will add your suggestions to our congee exploration list.
Sadly, the exceptional Hometown Oriental Deli and Carry-out on Bethel has closed down. The space, as far as I can tell, is transitioning to new owners, who are remodeling the interior, and the “Hometown” sign was yanked on Sunday. I have to say that I’m really going to miss Hometown and its’ owners – they were modest to a fault and and had many consistently stellar dishes that I’ve never encountered elsewhere. Here’s hoping that the new proprietors offer something equally special…
Some of the links on your blogroll are broken. Just thought I’d let you know.
Thanks! Fixed.
All the best to you! I’ll do all I can to promote this.
Suggestion: Michoacana on Morse?
Another superb resource. Great work. Thanks for the taco truck map.
Oh, nice work. This is a great resource for not just newcomers to ethic food in Columbus, but also for someone like me who’s been enjoying food in Columbus for over 20 years and still exploring.
So I just came across Taste of Zanzibar on Morse Road and loved it. they opened about a week ago. I posted on CU here:
http://www.columbusunderground.com/taste-of-zanzibar-restaurant-opens-on-morse-road
I also recommend Drelyse West African restaurant on Tamrack Circle. The owner has catered for Gov Strickland. Their website is:
http://www.drelyse.com
Really liking these – you guys are helping me plan a lot of future meals. 🙂 You may want to try La Famosa in Hilliard or Pita Hut on N. High.
Love the website!
I’d like to suggest an Indian place in Reynoldsburg. It used to be called “Venky’s Spice House” although it’s changed names and I’m not sure what it’s currently called . It’s located in the strip mall on the West side of Brice Road just South of Main (across from K-Mart.)
I say “place” because it’s not so much a restaurant, but rather an Indian grocery store with a small kitchen in the back – counter to eat at and three quaint booths.
I often go for lunch and order “tali” which can be ordered vegetarian or with the chicken curry and one vegetable side. Served with rice and hot fresh buttery naan, so good and not bad for like $8-9. One of the vegetable sides I love is the Gobee Manchurian, which is a lightly fried cauliflower with onion and green pepper in a red sauce that had a sort of asian influence, very spicy and very good.
Basically it’s the best Indian food I’ve had in Columbus, check it out!
Thanks, Joey! We’ve been meaning to check that place out for a while, appreciate the reminder.
Afraid the place no longer exists, although a new restaurant, “Temptations 3”, is located there now. Completely renovated and now has simple yet adequate ambience. Only had one take-away, but the King Prawn Tikka Masala (not on the menu, but they agreed to make it for me!) was excellent. It is worth a try.
There is a tasty Venky’s Spice House Indian Restaurant out in Hilliard on Roberts Road (http://www.venkysspicehouse.com/index.html). I don’t think it’s doing too well but it has the best music video TV on all the time and seems to generally be $1 cheaper per dish than other places like Aab and New India. I also think they have slightly larger portions too but the service/kitchen seems to be generally a little slow.
Can’t believe I haven’t made a detour after knowing so long about this place, but the Latin Cafe on S Hamilton in Whitehall is the *only* Dominican restaurant in the city. Sounds promising.
I would have also pointed you guys to Lindo Mexican & Cambodian restaurant on Sullivant, but it looks like they are closed for good. A damn shame. Still, if you just pass Demorest heading west on Sullivant on the south side is a strip mall with Hashi African restaurant that has caught my attention.
Please try The Olive Tree in Hilliard. It’s fantastic, and has vegetarian options as well. It’s got a wide variety of Mediterranean foods, and the owner/staff is so friendly.
http://www.olivetreecolumbus.com/
They’re on our list… will do.
Louie’s Grille on Robert’s Rd. calls the restaurant fusion, but the specials are usually Cuban dishes that are outstanding. There is also a great Middle Eastern restaurant called The Olive Tree on Hilliard-Rome Rd.
Hey. I recommend checking out Thai Taste at Kenny Center on Kenny Road. Really excellent Thai food!
And for Greek (specifically gyros), I recommend Hellas Grill Express on Northwest Blvd. in Grandview. Also, check out No. 1 Gyro Shoppe on W. Broad Street (I’m addicted to their chicken gyros).
Thanks for the suggestions, Chloe. We definitely have a lot of Thai on our list right now, and your middle eastern pick looks good too.
Vegiterranean – This place is so SO delicious. Been there four times and a different meal every time. It is beyond fantastic. Flavors, presentation, smell. It is truly worth the drive…..to Akron. Owned and started by Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders).
I hesitate to mention that the food is so good that you will never, ever, suspect it is not only vegetarian, it is 100% vegan. It is well worth the trip. The exec chef is a consummate foodsmith.
lai lai’s on east broad street in reynoldsburg – great taiwanese food
ena’s carribean cafe on cleveland ave
kihachi off of sawmill – fab homestyle japanese
el arepazo on gay street
sunflower for dim sum
Thanks for the suggestions, all are on our radar except for Lai Lai’s… which we’re keen to try out!
BTW, if you like Ena’s, you must try Dominic’s!
I recommend Taste of Bali in the Carriage Place shopping center on the corner of Sawmill & Bethel Rds. Indonesian food, pretty inexpensive, and very tasty. Plus some great super hot and spicy dishes, too, if you like spicy. The Telor Belado (hardboiled, then panfried egg in chili sauce) is an amazing side dish.
Good call… we have a post on ToB in the works.
Venky’s Spice House in Hilliard is awesome! They just went from a carry-out only to dine in.
http://www.venkysspicehouse.com/
Thanks for the resource!
I recommend Eggfast on the OSU campus. It’s the only 24 hour breakfast restaurant in the city. The food is delicious! They also deliver 24 hours!
Great resource! It has given some me good new suggestions for African cuisine in the city. Have you tried the Selam Olympic Restaurant on 1383 South Hamilton Road. Some of the tastiest, most robust Ethiopian food I’ve found yet.
@Breakfastlover: There’s a diner around Wilson and the 70 called Perkins that does breakfast 24 hours a day. I haven’t actually had their breakfast, but if it’s anywhere near as good as their burgers and homemade pie, it must be good 😀
Check out the Japanese noodle shop in the rear of Tensuke Japanese Market in Kenny Center. Just like the modern noodle shops where I used to have lunch in Tokyo when I lived there a few years ago. I tried the miso ramen, $6.50, very good and completely authentic. Many other typical, reasonably priced soba and udon bowls. You can also bring in the sushi you get from another window in the market.
For Lebanese, I recommend you try Lavash on High (Clintonville). Yum!
Thanks so much for checking out Bangkok! This is one of our favorite places. The next time you go back, check out their grocery store too. There is a surprising amount of variety there and the prices are reasonable. Also, have you considered checking out some of the Greek restaurants around town? There’s a good one
in Pickerington on 256 south of 70 (left side if your headed South) and also on North Hamilton Road, north of Morse.
Hate it that La Hacienda Real closed. Are they reopening anywhere? Anyplace in Columbus as good? Thanks
We never made it to La Hacienda Real, but we’ve thoroughly enjoyed Restaurant Karla.
La Hacienda Real has a GRAND REOPENING sign up but no further details
Have you tried La Herba Buena up on Sawmill? It’s a Filipino grocery store but they have a buffet on Saturdays. They’re website isn’t working but here’s their facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/La-Herba-Buena-LLC/147860178198?v=info
Make sure to try the halo-halo if they have it.
Please try Moy’s on high street across from the new OSU union and next to Buckeye Doughnuts. It has been there for decades and is top notch. Although it is sooo VIP it does not have a sign. Again it is in the Buckeye Doughnuts building. The establishment is run by an adorable Asian couple that remembers all of their customers and deliver top notch service.
(614) 297-7722
1994 N High St
Columbus, OH 43201
BEST ASIAN IN THE CITY! HANDS DOWN. The menu is in english and chinese. So authentic. AMAZING!!!!!
I agree about Moy’s: it is really terrific food. SOme great dishes include: Hot pot with salt fish, chicken and eggplant, Fried Kwai Chu (rice noodles with chinese sausage, shrimp, egg), Sizzling beef steak in black pepper sauce, Fried fish filets with green beans over rice noodles with black bean sauce.
Every time I go back to El Arepazo it’s like falling in love again, well, with the cilantro sauce.
Sorry, I just posted this to another page on your site, before I realized you had a recommendations page…. Blue Nile, excellent Ethiopian just N of campus.
We have Blue Nile on our go-to list, but have been putting it on the back burner in favor of lesser-known restaurants for the time being. We have posted on
Lalibela, and have a post on Selam in the works. Abyssinia Cafe is another one on the list. Do you know of any other Ethiopian restaurants?
Lalibela was a much better experience than Blue Nile. The food and prices are way better and the service is as good as Blue Nile.
I’d generally agree (we’ve been to Blue Nile, but prior to running this site) – not sure I can discern a tremendous difference in food quality, but the price distinction is significant.
South of Broad on the right-hand side of S Hamilton is Mesob (Ethiopian).
Chez Rama off of Livingston and Courtright is Chez Rama (African) came recommended.
Island Vibes is another Jamaican spot on Cleveland & Windsor.
Pearl’s Kitchen opened up on Cleveland and Kohl. I’m guessing it’s a soul food restaurant.
Thanks for all of your suggestions, Keith!
We’ve stopped in at both Mesob and Chez Rama, and for various unfortunate reasons were not inclined to eat at/promote either.
Island Vibes is on our list, and Pearl’s Kitchen… interesting, we’ve never seen that before!
Oh, and there ‘s a Kosher bakery, Matt’s Bakery east of James on E Broad.
http://www.dispatch.com/live/contentbe/dispatch/2006/09/20/20060920-G1-01.html
Excellent find, thanks!
We’d love for you to stop by and check out our little place in Pickerington, the Columbus Sandwich Company.
High end wraps, soups, salads, sandwiches. Homemade chicken salad that’s wildly popular and sold by the pound. We do a lot of catering and have a nice little place with an urban history theme. (all the sandwiches are named after Columbus landmarks)
You have a great site…thank you.
Come & check us out at Flanagan’s Pub in Blacklick!
Pizza, burgers, subs, all kinds of great food!!
I notice that you spend a lot of time exploring the west side of town (thanks!). I also notice that there is no official “Greek” category on your site yet. Might I suggest #1 Gyro Shoppe and Greek Village Gyros & Donuts? Both are on W. Broad St. near Wilson Ave.
Thanks so much for the great work you’re doing. I’m really excited to have found your site, and I’ve discovered some wonderful west side eateries after reading your reviews.
West of Georgesville before Las Catrachas it looks like there’s a Somali strip mall with a market and restaurant and west of Otro Rollo (IIRC) there is Taqueria Pasadita on the north side of Sullivant in a building.
Don’t quote me on it, but I believe I saw the taqueria in one of the buildings between Wilson and Demorest. Taqueria Pasadita, I think it’s called.
Yep – we’ve been aware of the Somali spot since our first trip to Catrachas. Particularly curious about Pasadita, though – sounds a lot like it’s in the old Ceneduria Karla space.
Hah! Found a video on their health violations and yes, that is the same building, but it has a new paint job.
http://www2.nbc4i.com/news/2009/sep/02/grocery_store_restaurants_face_health_violations-ar-16634/
I ❤ the internet.
Oh, and on E Main just west of Bexley is Irie Jamaican Cuisine and Zion Cafeteria (soul food), both of which are recent additions.
Thanks, these sound like great finds – they’re on our list.
Some friends of mine that live in Linden were raving about Ena’s Carribean Soul Food Kitchen (2458 Cleveland Ave.) Might be worth it to check out.
i’m so glad to have found this!!! we’re constantly experiementing at different places, but don’t have the time or enough local interest to put it on our blog. two asian places that i would suggest off the bat would be Yings Tea House & Yum Yum on high street in clintonville, which has gained some popularity and Hometown Carryout and Deli (or deli & carryout) in the Microcenter shopping center on Bethel rd. Both are phenomenal and more traditional fare than you’ll find elsewhere.
Can you please correct the spelling for the Vietnamese sandwiches? it’s “banh mi” not “bahn mi”…thanks!
For a not-at-all-intimidating option over on 845 W 5th Ave is Coco’s Grill tucked in a strip mall next to a state liquor store and a Burger King. It’s a nice little Chinese place that has some good vegetarian dishes, usually included in the Chinese-only daily specials which they’ll gladly translate for you.
Another place of interest for Chinese would have to be Joy’s Village next to OSU just north of Panda Express. I’m a fan of the Indonesian (“Indostea” on the menu) fried rice and I’m not even a fan of fried rice. They also have more unusual offerings like pickled pork intestines (OK. I haven’t gotten around to ordering those yet) and a good sign is the family and staff eat there.
Nazareth Deli is the best Middle Eastern restaurant in Columbus. They celebrated their 21st anniversary yesterday and to kick it all off, now serve alcohol. The owner and staff (who I know personally) are incredibly friendly and fun and the new location (across the street from the old) has plenty of seating and a bar.
Here is the website:
http://www.nazarethdeli.com/
The new location is off of 161 in Northland Plaza
I live on the Morse Rd Corridor and one of my favorite things about it is the proximaty of good, reasonable ethnic food. I second the notion of Dre’lyse on Tamarack Circle. West African cuisine, a bright, cheery dining room, very friendly and helpful staff, generous portions, and always busy. I love the Jollof Chicken and Rice, with a side of plantains, so much that I’ve only tried one other thing, the whole tilapia, which was also good. Lawshea’s @ Karl and Morse in the Patio shops relocated from the east side. They have a wide selction of good fried fish and homey sides. Ribs are mediocre, in my opinion.
Does anyone know if Costello’s (Cleveland Ave south of 270) is still open? If it is, you have to go and try the mofango (sp?)
I look forward to trying the suggestions here that I haven’t already.
You definitely live in a great area for alt.eats! Hadn’t heard of Lawshea’s, thanks for the tip – will have to check that one out.
If any of you are ever in need of a dining companion (which I’m sure you’re not!), pick me!
At some future point, we may have occasional “alteatups” at an alt eats restaurant for people that would like to have the “guides” present for conversation and menu suggestions.
I just tried Taqueria Mi Bandera on 161 and would definitely recommend it. It was my first time there, so the only thing I have had was the Chilaquiles con Carne Asada, but it was really good. I am planning on making it back soon to try the Menudo and Rico Sancocho.
Check out Tai asian bistro on Lane, near kenny west of OSU. It’s really good, fresh mostly chinese food. Great pad thai and noodle dishes. Egg rolls that reminded me of NYC/London Chinatown
Costelo’s on 161 is indeed still open! They are my suggestion. Rick and Brian run an outstanding restaurant and the desserts are made by their mom, Annie. Everything, and i mean everything we have eaten there has been outstanding. However, the Costelo sauce is something that is to be revered. It is incredible!!!
Please put this place up there on your list!
http://www.dishingitup-columbus.blogspot.com/2010/05/costelos-cinco-de-mayo.html
I would love for you to try Lac Viet’s new Global Breakfast at their Bethel Center location. Fabulous fresh ingredients and a wonderful take on breakfast fare from around the world and very good prices. This is probably the first Asian resturant that serves breakfast, would make for a great review! Check it out!
Check out the El mariachi chains one is located off 161 and Maple canyon in a strip next to a grocery store carry out across from Huntington Bank and the other location is next to a drive thru by the former Butch’s Cafe next to Golden Corral off main st not to far from hamilton. Across from a Mi Mexico very good food since they have been around since 02.
Bamboo Garden
Asian
Sawmill Road, between Route 161 and I-270
Had their weekday buffet earlier this week. Disappointing. The main vegetarian entrees bordered on tasteless.
It’s run/owned by the same people who run Tadka, a new Indian restaurant on Route 161, two blocks east of Sawmill. Tadka is great.
there’s this place in olde towne east (oak and wilson) called Families Mobile Kitchen. They serve chicken and waffles (and other food)if u haven’t had it i suggest u try it. I got The Real Urban Legend i couldn’t even finish it and the mac and cheese is to die for. If ever get chance stop by try their food u won’t be disappointed.
After having read from another suggestion on this site, my daughter and I decided to give this Hilliard location a try. Hands down, absolutely the best tasting, freshest, authentic, and beautiful looking Indian food I’ve had in Columbus. What a find! We enjoyed samosas, chicken tandoori, chicken masala, lamb curry and nan. Lots and lots of wonderful to go bags!
Newly opened, the decor is also in great taste, including the tables, chairs, dishware, lighting and wall color. We met the owner, who says he intends to expand the space and offer a room for banquets, parties, ladies night out etc. Currently awaiting liquor license. Large portions and priced right, you will not be disappointed!
Your posting does not identify the restaurant. Please share its name.
Oops! Venkys Spice House in hilliard. http://www.venkysspicehouise.com
Venky’s has been on our list for… forever. We definitely need to get out there!
Typo in the link – no I in “house” 🙂
Finally checked out the Spice House tonight – the veg. samosas, served with tamarind sauce and mint chutney, were very good – nice flaky crust, not greasy at all (and both sauces were wonderful), chicken chettinadu v. flavorful if not particularly remarkable – the people at the next booth, however, ordered the Hyderabadi biryani and were raving about it. They are in the process of expanding the restaurant into the space previously occupied by the grocery, so apparently business is good. (Altho’ they need to do something about reducing the draft from the front door – even way in the back I felt it every time the door opened on this cold night.)
Kulan – another Somali restaurant on the west side, across Georgesville Rd. from where Sabrina’s is located – they’ve been there more than a year (I tend to stay away from brand new places – once they’ve stuck around for a while I figure they’re probably pretty decent) and word is that their goat is excellent. (No, I haven’t eaten there yet.)
Fito’s Peruvian Rotisseri Chicken
It just opened up a couple of weeks ago, isn’t very busy on week nights (but it’s packed on weekends with Peruvian immigrants and during the day because of OSU students). Great chicken and even better ají.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Fitos-Peruvian-Rotisserie-Chicken/165949850112561
I’ll suggest Indian Palace on Frantz Rd over in Dublin. Used to eat here about once a week when I worked in one of the office parks near Tuttle Crossing. Loved the lunch buffet. http://indianpalacerestaurant.com/
Thanks for the suggestion. Our list of places to visit has grown a lot(!), but we’ll check it out before too long.
Love the suggestions! Thanks
Hello hello,
so it’s the second time I try General Tso’s Restaurant, on 5227 Godown Road. First time I went I promised to myself I’d never go there again, but then had to oblige a friend who has a sentimental connection to the place. And I’m so glad I did! Second time around, it was delicious! I think it was mostly that on my first visit I had ordered the regular Americanized dishes off the menu. Second visit, I tried some of the appetizers, salads, some of their larger pots, and it was to die for. So if you go there, be adventurous, you won’t regret it! Hubby and wife run, they’re quite the sweet couple. And while you’re out there, go next door for good Lebanese produce and groceries;)
I was just told about your site a couple of days ago. There are so many suggestions I didn’t really read through all of them but your should definitely check out Lac Viet on Bethel Rd. It is a lot different than the one in the North Market being the original owner sold it. The lamb pho is amazing.
I’m being lazy here, but La Famosa Cuisine is Hilliard may be closed. We had heard good things and tried to go last night (7 PM ish) and the door was locked. So was the Famosa Mercado 2 doors down. Just a heads up, in case it really is closed. (I haven’t even called, that’s why I say I’m being lazy.) http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/33/371391/restaurant/Columbus/Famosa-Latin-Cuisine-Hilliard. If they are not closed I suggest you all do a review of them. Thanks!
Corrrection: La Famosa is open, as of May 2012
JAMAICAN
Try Ena’s Caribbean Kitchen on Cleveland. I love it. Across the street from Dominic’s. Brown Stew Chicken on Wednesdays and great Ox Tail. Of course the Jerk is great too.
Ena’s Caribbean Kitche
(614) 262-0988
2444 Cleveland Ave
Columbus, OH 43211
Pingback: Quick Bites | Columbus Food Adventures
We were talking about La Famosa on the Alt Eats food tour the other night and I wanted to let you know that we drove by tonight and they have a sign on their door saying that they are closed for remodeling but will reopen soon. They did have the lights and TV on so they may have even been working tonight.
Very good to know – thanks!
I know I’ve already suggested 6-7 places, but that new Lagos International on Cleveland Avenue looks awfully interesting…
We hope to get there within the week.
Our post about Intercontinental is now up: https://alteatscolumbus.com/2011/04/02/intercontinental-restaurant/
Recently, I was told about Lotus Grill in the Crosswoods area. They have some good stuff on their Chinese menu (English translations available). First time I ate there, I got my old standby for comparison, Dry Bean Curd w/Shredded Pork, which was definitely up-to-snuff taste- and portion-wise. I also had their Beef Soup, which was equally good. It contained a huge amount of tender beef and bok choy. Overall, simple preparation and fresh flavors.
FYI: The front of the restaurant is not on Hutchinson. Turn onto High Cross Blvd and pull into the the parking lot it shares with the Chipotle beside it. Sushi Ko is nearby as well.
Thanks for the tip! We’ll check it out.
Looks like it has been almost a year since this post. Did you guys end up checking out Lotus Grill? I have to agree with Batarang–This is a family-owned place and they love it when you ask for the “real” Chinese menu. These are their own family recipes. My husband and I go there all the time for the sichuan fish and the beef soup. If you are a regular, they will call you by name–the name of what you like to order most!
We did try Lotus Grill and we weren’t really excited about it. The Sichuan dishes didn’t compare to Fortune.
did u guys check out Tai’s Asian Bistro over at lane ave?
how about some all you can eat sushi (19.99) over at Hilliard, restaurant called Haruki East?
and still around Hilliard, how bout Starliner Diner?
Cheers!
your blog’s awesome!
La Herba Buena is a Filipino weekend buffet hidden off of Sawmill and 270. http://laherbabuena.wordpress.com/
Been there twice, a writeup is forthcoming.
La Herba Buena is definitely on point. Only downside is the lack of a lot of vegetable dishes, but when I’m feeling my inner carnivore (heavy on the pork), I’ve gotta hit up this Filipino gem.
I have been looking for good dim sum in Columbus since Shangri La closed. I recently discovered Sunflower on Sawmill just north of 270. Very solid, good selection.
Justin
We have a post on the site about dim sum at Sunflower. We agree it’s one of the best options in town. https://alteatscolumbus.com/2011/01/25/sunflower-chinese-restaurant-and-lounge/
Another place that has dim sum carts is Lee Garden (also on the site).
I would suggest Island Vibes Caribbean food at 1558 Cleveland Ave. Great stuff!
No list of good Chinese restaurants in Columbus is complete without including New Chopsticks, http://www.newchopsticks.com, in the Sawmill area. Has a Chinese menu and nice selection of Cantonese dishes. Counter service.
Looking at the Chinese menu…..mmmmmmmmm…guess I’m going to the Dublin area to eat even more than I usually do. Items on it reminds me of Yau’s (which I’m slowing trawling through week-by-week).
Have you been to Golden Finger on Karl Road? African inspired cuisine in a former retail establishment.
http://www.restaurant.com/rdc/golden-finger-kitchen-columbus-ethiopianafrican-restaurant-rid=398018?&mcn=00102291
Ena’s Caribbean Kitchen
(614) 262-0988
North Side
2444 Cleveland Ave
Columbus, OH 43211
I have found that one of the fastest ways to become a hero with your friends is to suggest Ena’s. I had heard of this site, but just came to look today. To not find Ena’s was a sad surprise.
Mazah Middle Eastern Eatery on Grandview Avenue. family owned. Lunch and dinner are good home made fare. What’s really unique is the breakfast — now being served Thursday through Saturday.
Laura We were looking forward to trying this out but sadly they are discontinuing breakfasts. http://www.facebook.com/notes/mazah-mediterranean-eatery/important-message-to-all-customers-concerning-changes-to-breakfast/10150254608535842
We’ll have to console ourselves with some pita pies from Salam bakery.
Lac Viet on Bethel Road needs to be added to the list of Vietnamese Restaurants. This is one of our very favorites! Super fresh and authentic. The Vietnamese Sandwich served with a small side of pho is the best. They make a signature homemade hot sauce too!
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Irie-Jamerican-Cuisine/132476046770540
Right down the street from me. Just walked over the other night to try it and found it to be pretty yummy. Little to no dining area but I would happily offer my space for the Alt Eats crew to get some carry out.
-Andrew
Have you tried this Filipino place yet? The pictures and menu look great, very authentic. I plan to go as soon as I’m back in town.
http://nonisasiancuisine.com/
Oh, and I would definitely try the sisig, lechon kawali, or kare-kare: http://www.nonisasiancuisine.com/?page=specials
I agree this is some good stuff. I can’t wait to try their weekend buffet.
http://sisenorlatinfusion.com/
Peruvian Food…awesome~
I haven’t tasted any of the sandwiches, but I wasn’t too impressed with one of their special Saturday Peruvian Night meals. For $22 I expect a little more food. I can go down to G. Michael’s and get a well-prepared 3-course dinner on Mondays and feel stuffed for $30.
I’ll Second Si Senor. Great guys and awesome sandwiches. They used to have a booth at the Pearl Alley market, but have since opened up a store front.
I was actually going to post about a new place on rt161 near Sawmill rd called Papaya Street Grill. It’s in a location that used to be occupied by The Greek Corner.
They specialize in Asian/tropical inspired dishes. Everything is house made. Their main attraction are noodles topped with the delicious meat of your choice and a wide selection of original sauces. But my favorite so far has been the sandwiches. They’re “French Bread Sandwiches” (bahn mi) are killer. I recommend the pork roll (marinated, slow roasted pork belly sliced paper thin).
Have you tried this place? Curious if it’s worth the drive……
American | Ethiopian/African
Fasika Easter Restaurant
4801 E. Broad St.
Whitehall, OH 43213
(614) 861-0321
Not yet, but hope to try it soon.
Hey, please check out Janet’s Kitchen on Olentangy River Road (in the International Market). GREAT middle eastern food at criminal prices. The lady who owns it is there every day cooking her heart out.
Please visit Belle’s Bread, which has newly opened near Tensuke market. It’s a European-Japanese style bakery. I liked their pear mousse. They also offer lunch which is Japanese-style European dishes. I bet you have a very interesting experience.
Just had a great lunch at Ka Ya, a Korean place on Reed Rd:
http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/33/371344/restaurant/Upper-Arlington/Kaya-Grill-Sushi-Columbus
Hah! Good call. We’ve been there plenty of times, but for whatever reason haven’t gotten around to writing it up. A must do!
Merlion on High St. just south of Worthington. Singaporean food! Laksa, Hainan chicken rice, char kway teow – authentically prepared and solid dishes. In Columbus!
I’m not sure of the name but there is Jamaican place at the food court in the Eastland Mall.
Famosa Latin Cuisine at Roberts Rd in Hilliard, west off I-270. Superb authentic food, family-style service, easy on wallet prices, huge portions – delight to big stomachs and appetites!No website, only facebook page with COUPONS!!!
Bahn Thai on Henderson Rd has great thai food.
Have you heard of any Argentinian restaurants in Columbus? I really want to try some Arepas!
Maggie
There aren’t any Argentinian resetaurants – yet – in Columbus but there are some people making and selling Argentinian food. Check out http://www.facebook.com/elcampoempanadas
Arepas are most commonly associated with Colombia and Venezuela. Try El Arepazo http://www.elarepazolatingrill.com/ (downtown or their new location in Gahanna).
There’s an Argentine bakery in town that within the next year may be getting a storefront. The family also makes empanadas and ”prepizzas” (pizza crusts). They’re going to have a booth at Festival Latino.
http://dangelosbrand.wix.com/dangelosbakery
http://www.facebook.com/dangelosforme
We’re aware of them and eagerly await their shop.
Hi,
I’m visiting Columbus for a couple days for work. Planning to get away from my colleagues and check out the local dining scene. Have no clue other than Kihachi [via Bourdain 🙂 ]of what to eatv – I’ll probably hit them up for some sushi.
Do you have any recommendations that are quintessential Ohio / Regional local eats?
Thanks in advance.
Well, one thing that’s pretty unique to Columbus in the context of the midwest is the many great taco trucks. If you want to go it on your own, here’s a website that tracks them. You could also take a tour of them.
Jeni’s is a must, as is the North Market and Short North area. You can explore on your own, or again – there’s a tour for it!
German Village also has its fair share of restaurant institutions. I’d recommend G. Michaels and Skillet.
Finally, take a peek here.
Any of the Alt Eats mentioned on this website would be great to check out- Columbus has a wide variety of small places serving great ethnic foods. As far as more traditional Columbus-y restaurants, I’d suggest North Star Cafe, Schmidt’s Sausage Haus in German Village, Tip Top, Betty’s or Surly Girl, Knead, maybe one of the Cameron Mitchell’s restaurants like Cap City, Thurman Cafe for a Thurmanburger, or even The Refectory’s bistro menu is pretty reasonable.
Lalibela in Whitehall. It is fantastic Ethiopian food. http://lalibelarestaurant.net/
Hi Amy — we agree Lalibela is great. We’ve already covered it on the site:
Just ate at Jui Thai Asian Cafe at 787 Bethel Road (the former location of Lilly’s) and they had a very interesting menu with none of the typical lunch special dishes. I had the Delicious Pork Cake ($3, very tasty) and the Hot Pot ($6) which had noodles, bok choi, napa, luncheon meat, quail egg, bean skin, and fish ball. The hot pot was saltier and more oily than I anticipated, but was delicious all the same. I plan to return with my family next week to try more dishes.
I second New Chopsticks in Dublin. I’m Chinese American originally from New York City, and this is the first place I found that had decent Gong Chow Naw Haw.
Have you tried Borgata Pizza Cafe on Parkville Street? It is definitely off the beaten path and is locally owned. They make their own spaghetti noodles, meatballs, sauce, etc. I don’t know of too many places that actually make their own pasta. Their New York Style pizza is great too.
Seconding RachelV on Jiu Thai – the proprietors are from Shenyang, and they serve solidly authentic NE Chinese cuisine. Lamb dumplings, lamb noodle soup, and other dishes that aren’t part of the typical flavor profile of Cantonese, Sichuan, etc. cuisines but are typical of NE China. One of the best authentic Chinese restaurants to open up in Columbus in the last few years, and food you won’t find much of anywhere else in the US, except NYC.
Lashish the Greek on Bethel is fantastic. I’d skip the gyro and more traditional Greek menu items, although those are excellent as well, and try the seafood (the best calamari I’ve ever had, and I love the snapper as well) and the soups. Many of the desserts are housemade as well. My husband used to work in the neighborhood and I constantly bugged him to bring me stuff home. The best part is that the owner and his staff will make you feel like a rock star, especially if you stop in often. It’s like a neighborhood diner feel with a more interesting menu.
Yau’s on 9th and High near OSU has great Chinese food! I recommend their spicy pork chop and Yau’s pan fried noodles (with the crispy noodles)!
I wondered if you might comment on whether or not a restaurant serves alcohol or if you can bring your own, in future reviews. Love your reviews! Love to eat off the beaten path! Thanks for providing a great service to Cbus foodies!
That’s a good point. For the most part, these restaurants don’t serve alcohol – it’s just too expensive for them to get liquor licenses. A few do, though, and we’ll be sure to note that in future write-ups. Off the top of my head, you’ll find alcohol offerings at Plaza Tapatia, Siem Reap, and Udipi.
Regarding BYOB, it’s best to call ahead and ask the owners. Many Muslim-run establishments are unlikely to agree, and it’s anyone’s guess with other places.
Thanks. Yup- it would be a moot point at the Muslim establishments. I just like a good beer or wine with my chow when I eat dinner out! 🙂
Not sure if you guys still list stuff but thought I would update your Jamaican category, sweet pot so I hear has moved to two clubs on Livingston one just before Brice road and another after court right Rd but also it’s is a place on sullivant avenue called irie and it is worth a try.
Can someone tell me how to edit my comment that has been posted?
SuperChef’s Breakfast & More…New Breakfast & Lunch Eatery In DownTown Columbus On Broad Street!!!! Must Try…. http://www.mysuperchefs.com
Love the idea of reviewing off the beaten path restaurants. I highly recommend the Little Lebanon Bakery near the Chase office at Polaris. http://www.littlelebanonbakery.com Despite the name, they don’t just bake desserts, they also have excellent meals for lunch. I’ve only tried their wraps, hummus, and salads so far and have not been disappointed. The shawarma and keftha wraps are fantastic. I would try to avoid lunch time on weekdays – there often is not room to sit and they are already looking to add more seating.
Bamboo Cafe on Bethel road – their pho ga and pho bo are both really good! They offer a mix of Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese food (which made me reluctant at first) but their Vietnamese options seem very authentic and compare to other good Vietnamese places I have been to outside of Columbus.
Another addition to Chef Kevin’s cadre of Sichuan menu restaurants is Hong Kong House. Used to be Hong Kong Buffet situated beside Sunrise grocery in UA. Chinese menu has not been translated to English yet.
Batarang – Thanks for letting us know.
You may want to unhack your map . . . looks like hackers with a mainland Chinese bent have gotten in and changed all the map flag icons to Chinese flags. Love your site, you guys rock. Need any help?
Maybe check out this new favorite? Yings Teahouse! New management, authentic food from the seldom-represented Shaanxi province in the center of China, and friendly servers (the very helpful Ling) were the perfect recipe for last night’s adventure. Lamb skewers, spicy oil noodles (wide and slightly sour), shredded pork sandwiches in grilled rice buns – Rou Jia Mo, and an abundant mushroom variety hotpot with tofu and glass noodles were mostly dishes I’d never tried let alone heard of. Thanks to friends in the Chinese community for introducing us! Leftover box for lunch today is waiting in the fridge…
There is a taco shack situated outside of the Westland Flea market. I’m not sure if you’ve done a review on this yet. I stumbled across it today and tried out a memelita and this home made squash drink. It was delicious! It seems like they make their own horchata too, but it wasnt available today. It would be cool to see a review about this place.
El Burrito Loco y Pupuseria is great… Salvadoran food on 1361 Brice Rd, Reynoldsburg, Ohio
you have to try los ranchitos, its on brown rd, near frank rd. its mexican, tortas and burritos are great
also, Siam Hibachi opened not to long ago in grove city, they are hibachi and thai. they have there standard hibachi menu all the time, and a thai special every week. its my favorite new take out place.
We have been to Los Ranchitos and it was solid taco truck fare in an indoor setting. Just never got around to posting about it. Thanks for letting us know about Sian Hibachi.
Hey guys there is a new pop up restaurant inside of saraga grocery called MOMO CHAR. I got some pictures and had a great experience..very authentic.
Thanks Brittany, we agree. We’ve been twice and will be posting about it.
Have you ever reviewed Jiu Thai on Bethel Rd? It’s authentic Northern Chinese. My wife is from China and we are in there every Saturday and usually im the only non Chinese so that should tell you how truly authentic they are. 😊
Bonifacio in Grandview – filipino cuisine
and.. fortune on 161, the one that used to be a grocery store, please?
thanks guys..
hyasiancuisine.com – HY Asian Cuisine. Olentangy River Rd near University Village. Kitchen run by Kevin (Hong Kong House, Fortune, Helen’s Szechuan menus). My first entree was Dry-fried Cauliflower. Best szechuan peppercorns I’ve ever had and a mountain of red chili peppers…mala indeed!!
im really curious to know what your review will be of Menya Ramen in dublin
We really like Menya. We wrote about them when they first opened but never got around to writing about their new location here. We also write about ethnic food for Columbus Monthly so sometimes we write things that are published there and not on the blog.
Hi folks. I must say I just went through your list and my what an extensive one it is! I’d like to add one to the list: Asempe Kitchen. It’s mostly a pop-up at the moment and housed inside of the Hills Market Downtown on Wednesdays at lunch time.
Sad news recently found out Udipi cafe Indian has closed
Everest in Worthington for Indian/Nepalese