Ah, Yelp. It's the review website we often go to when we want to share our experiences. And it conveniently tells us the top destinations in every city on the globe—whether we're looking for food, drink or service.
Based on the number of reviews and the ratings themselves, Yelp creates lists of nearly every restaurant in a given city so you know minute-by-minute where you should go for your next meal. Using that information, we compiled a list of the Columbus hotspots that are most consistently ranked in the top ten.
Next time hunger strikes, take a tour through Columbus via its top dining spots. There are casual eateries, upscale restaurants and even a few bakeries, so no matter the occasion, there's something on this list to match it.
This unassuming cafe in northeast Columbus has been a staple in the city's dining scene since 1989 and one of the area's best-kept secret for more than 20 years! Their extensive menu offers a little something for everyone. And the best part? For every entree purchased you get a completely free dessert!
While almost every Yelp review highlights the fantastic food, they also happen to mention the spectacular service. "All the reviews of this place are TRUE! The food is SO good, the price is right and the service is top-notch."
Photo courtesy of Brassica
With four bustling locations all over the Columbus area, it's safe to assume that Brassica is something special. They serve healthy (and delicious) sandwiches and salads crafted from organic, local and sustainably sourced ingredients.
One Yelp review begins, "It's like they crawled into my head and said, 'Give me a list of your favorite foods,' and I said, 'Okay, but what are you going to do, build your menu around my preferences?' 'No man, we're going to put all of these ingredients into one sandwich,'" and if that isn't a rave review, we don't know what is!
Pizza, cakes, pastries and pies—count us obsessed! Opened in 2004, Tyler's is an adorable eatery in the heart of Reynoldsburg that only uses the best, local and organic ingredients. They specialize in hearty, wood-fired pizzas along with freshly baked pastries—including a Yelp-famous chocolate croissant that "just melts in your mouth." Head there this week, Tuesday-Saturday, and see what all the (well-placed) hype is all about.
3 Brothers Diner is a Mexican-American fusion restaurant, born out of three brothers' dream to share their unique style of cooking with the Grove City area. They provide a contemporary twist on authentic regional Mexican fare and plenty of American breakfast staples to complete your perfect weekend brunch. Their bright and refreshing interior makes this the perfect setting for enjoying an exceptional meal with family and friends.
Yelp reviewer Eve R. summed up her feelings about 3 Brothers in just a few words, "OK people, you want a delicious meal and outstanding service? This is the place for you!"
Located in Whitehall, this family-owned bistro is an unexpected gem in Columbus' culinary scene! Their menu features a variety of healthy and organic dishes, from hormone-free burgers to fresh salads. As for food selections, Yelp reviewers almost always mention their Ethiopian dry rub wings, one of the restaurant's signature dishes, for good reason.
While there are plenty of reasons you should visit Columbus' Saraga International Grocery Store, Momo Ghar is a reason to stop by all on its own. Named time and time again as one of the best restaurants in the city, Momo Ghar is known for their MOMOs, Himalayan dumplings filled with meat and/or vegetables. Every item on their menu is fresh and handmade from scratch—including their renowned spicy sauces.
The most adoring review we found on Yelp begins, "I intentionally stop by Saraga International Market mainly because I want my hands on the deliciousness that is Momo Ghar!! These dumplings are so tasty and their spicy sauces take them to the next level."
Photo courtesy of Cherbourg Bakery
At last! Columbus has a completely nut-and-gluten-free bakery in its midst. This Bexley institution offers an array of sweet and savory treats, including quiches, shakshuka, scones, muffins, donuts, bars, brownies, cookies, cake and more. Accompany your morsel of sweetness with a pour-over coffee, a cup of tea or orange juice!
On Yelp, you'll find gluten-free individuals singing praises: "As someone who has been eating gluten-free most of my life due to Celiac Disease, this place is my dream come true. EVERYTHING here is gluten-free! It's also all not just gluten-free, but it's actually GOOD."
Every taco connoisseur in Columbus knows about Tula Taqueria. This small, family-owned restaurant has been serving their Yelp-famous fare since 2018—and we can't get enough! Reminiscent of dishes you could get from street carts in Tijuana and Jalisco, their tacos are simple, delicious and so good you won't be able to just stop at one.
And don't skip dessert either. One reviewer said, "Make sure to save room for dessert. They have really good churros - super fresh and tasty. You have a choice of either Cajeta (Mexican caramel) or chocolate sauce—definitely try the Cajeta!"
Photo courtesy of Smoked on High BBQ
Originally known as Buckey Back Ribs and Papaya BBQ, Smoked on High BBQ has been bringing world-class barbeque experiences to the central Ohio region for half a decade. Their Southern-style barbeque is slow-smoked and promises to melt in your mouth. Do yourself a favor when you visit and order the brisket—you'll thank us later.
Known for outstanding Greek cuisine, Yappy Greek is a restaurant and deli that offers a broad selection of Greek favorites, all made using healthy, natural ingredients. Around lunchtime, head to this laid-back deli in Worthington and order a tasty sandwich, salad, rice or anything else that catches your eye—we promise whatever it is, it'll be phenomenal.
And it isn't just us who thinks so. Yelper Amber S. wrote: "YES YES and YES. Today was my 1st trip to Yappy Greek and I can't stop asking myself why I didn't try it sooner!"
Where do you like to eat in Columbus?
Share your go-to dinner destinations with us in the comments below!