How to Do a Food Tour in Columbus, Ohio?

If you’re a food lover or an adventurous eater, embarking on a food tour in Columbus is an absolute must. From local favorites and international cuisines to innovative eateries and hidden gems, this city offers a cornucopia of flavors waiting to take your taste buds on a joy ride.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of planning and experiencing a memorable food tour in Columbus. So, put on your walking shoes and prepare your taste buds for a delightful journey through Columbus’s gastronomic wonders. Let’s dive right in!

Research Columbus Food Scene

Before starting the Columbus food tour, it’s essential to research the local food scene. This step will help you discover the culinary hotspots, popular dishes, and hidden gems that make Columbus a food lover’s paradise. There are plenty of ways to research the food scene in Columbus.

Online Resources

Start by exploring online resources dedicated to Columbus’s food culture. Websites such as local food blogs, review platforms like Yelp or TripAdvisor, and city-specific food guides are excellent starting points.

Social Media

Search for famous food bloggers, influencers, or Columbus-based food accounts to get a visual feast of the city’s culinary offerings. Pay attention to hashtags like #ColumbusFoodScene or #ColumbusFoodie to discover local food enthusiasts and their recommendations.

Local Publications

These publications often feature articles, interviews with chefs, and curated lists of the best restaurants in the city. Some well-known Columbus food publications include “Columbus Monthly” and “614 Magazine.”

Food Festivals

Check out event listings on websites like Experience Columbus or community event calendars to plan your visit around these food-centric happenings.

Plan your Itinerary

Designing a well-organized food tour will ensure you maximize your time and savor the diverse culinary offerings. Here’s a sample itinerary to inspire your Columbus food tour:

Day 1: Exploring the Short North Arts District

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Northstar Cafe (Short North location) – 951 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201.
• Indulge in creative tacos and margaritas for lunch at Condado Tacos – 1227 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201.
• Treat yourself to handcrafted chocolates and confections at Le Chocoholique – 601 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215.
• Enjoy dinner at The Pearl, known for its seafood and oyster bar – 641 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215.
• End the day with a visit to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams for unique and delicious ice cream flavors – 714 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215.

Day 2: Exploring German Village and Brewery District

• Start your morning with a classic German breakfast at Schmidt’s Restaurant und Sausage Haus – 240 E Kossuth St, Columbus, OH 43206.
• Visit The Book Loft, a local bookstore with a charming coffee shop – 631 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206.
• Enjoy a casual lunch at Thurman Cafe, famous for its massive burgers – 183 Thurman Ave, Columbus, OH 43206.
• Explore the local breweries in the Brewery District, such as Rockmill Brewery – 477 S Front St, Columbus, OH 43215.
• Have dinner at Schiller’s Gasthaus, offering authentic German cuisine – 731 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206.

Note: Remember, this is just a sample itinerary, and you can customize it based on your preferences and the number of days you have available.

Explore Local Neighborhood

To truly immerse yourself in the vibrant food scene of Columbus, it’s essential to explore the city’s various neighborhoods, each offering its unique culinary gems. Here are some food-centric areas and their famous eateries worth exploring:

1. Italian Village

• Fox in the Snow Cafe (1031 N 4th St): Start your day with delectable pastries and artisanal coffee in a charming setting.
• The Market Italian Village (1022 Summit St): Shop for fresh pasta and imported Italian goods to enjoy authentic Italian dishes.
• Harvest Pizzeria (495 S 4th St): Savor mouthwatering Neapolitan-style pizzas made with local and seasonal ingredients.

Downtown Columbus

• The Pearl (641 N High St): Experience an exceptional seafood and oyster bar in an upscale yet relaxed setting.
• North Market (59 Spruce St): Explore this bustling food hall with vendors offering diverse cuisines, fresh produce, and artisanal goods.
• The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro (1092 Bethel Rd): Indulge in a refined dining atmosphere in elegant French and European cuisine.

Mix and Match

One of the most exciting aspects of a food tour in Columbus is the opportunity to mix and match culinary experiences. The city offers diverse cuisines, from farm-to-table restaurants and ethnic eateries to creative food trucks.

1. Farm-to-Table Restaurants

• The Table (21 E 5th Ave): Delight in a rotating seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
• The Sycamore (262 E Sycamore St) Experience farm-to-fork cuisine in a cozy neighborhood setting.
• The Crest Gastropub (2855 Indianola Ave): Enjoy a creative menu highlighting local ingredients and craft beers.

2. Ethnic Eateries

• Akai Hana (1173 Old Henderson Rd): Indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine, including sushi and sashimi.
• Los Guachos Taqueria (5221 Godown Rd): Sample mouthwatering Mexican street tacos bursting with flavor.
• Lavash Cafe (2985 N High St): Savor Middle Eastern delights, such as falafel, kebabs, and baklava.

3. Food Trucks

• Hai Poke Food Truck: Find their vibrant food truck at various locations throughout the city, serving fresh and flavorful poke bowls.
• Sweet Carrot: Enjoy comfort food classics like BBQ pulled pork and mac ‘n’ cheese from their food truck or brick-and-mortar locations.

4. Fusion Cuisine

• Fukuryu Ramen (1600 W Lane Ave): Experience a blend of Japanese and Western flavors with their delectable ramen bowls.
• Momo Ghar (1265 Morse Rd): Try Nepalese dumplings, or momos, filled with savory ingredients and served with delicious sauces.

Embrace Local Flavor and Connections

Interacting with locals can enhance your food tour experience and provide valuable insights. Let’s explore how you can make the most of your interactions:

Strike Up Conversations

Engage in friendly conversations with locals; whether it’s the server at a restaurant, a fellow food enthusiast sitting next to you, or a familiar face, you meet at a food festival. Columbus locals are known for welcoming nature and love sharing their insights.

Seek Insider Tips

Locals possess a wealth of knowledge about the city’s food scene. Ask them about their go-to spots for specific cuisines, secret menu items, or off-the-beaten-path eateries.

Show Appreciation

Express your appreciation for the food and the hospitality you receive. Leave positive reviews on review platforms, give shoutouts on social media, and thank the chefs, servers, and restaurant owners for their hard work.

Document your Experience

By capturing your food journey, you can relive and share the delectable moments with others. There are many ways to document your experience; let’s look at it!

Share on Social Media

Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter to share your food experiences with friends, family, and fellow food enthusiasts. Write brief captions that capture the essence of each dish, along with the name and location of the restaurant.

Rate and Review

Leave reviews and ratings on Yelp, TripAdvisor, or Google Maps to share your experiences with the broader community. Your feedback can help guide other food enthusiasts’ culinary explorations and support local businesses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, embarking on a food tour in Columbus, Ohio, is a delightful journey filled with diverse flavors and culinary experiences. Whether indulging in farm-to-table cuisine, savoring international flavors, or discovering hidden gems, Columbus offers a vibrant culinary landscape waiting to be explored.

So, grab your appetite, follow your cravings, and immerse yourself in Columbus’s food scene’s rich and delicious tapestry. Bon appétit!