Posts in category 'Columbus And Central Ohio'

While many people out there may think that most live performances are limited to entertainment hubs like Los Angeles and New York, the truth is that Columbus has become of the greatest cities for all types of artists. If you're thinking about moving to the area or are already living here, rest assured that there are plenty of wonderful venues to choose from—and to get you started, we've put together a list of some of our favorites.

Shadowbox Live

503 S. Front St. #260, Columbus OH 43215

If you've never been to Shadowbox Live because you're new to the area or just haven't taken the time, then it's time to give it a try. This amazing performance arts venue and cafe consists of the United States' largest full-time resident theatre ensemble. This award-winning, non-profit performance troupe features everything from rock operas and cabaret to sketch comedy and dance. Over the past 25 years, thousands upon thousands of people have also enjoyed the food, but it's the people and their performances that truly make this a special place.

Actors' Theatre

1000 City Park Ave., Columbus OH 43206

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Another mainstay of art performance in Columbus has been the Actors' Theatre located in Schiller Park. In recent years, they've brought to life the works of William Shakespeare, Mary Shelley, T.S. Eliot, and many more all year round, but they're best known for their summer performances. These outdoor events bring people from all over and create a relaxing atmosphere where you can pull up a blanket and have a picnic while enjoying delightful entertainment. Outside of the summer months, residents are especially fond of their monthly Shakespeare Underground and Drunken Underground events.

Columbus Children's Theatre

177 E. Naghten St., Columbus OH 43215

As the name suggests, Columbus Children's Theatre concentrates on providing family-friendly entertainment. Founded in 1963, they've spent nearly 60 years honing and perfecting their crafts. They've done everything from The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe and Annie to the upcoming Crawls, Flies, and Squirms, and their newest addition, Think Spring. Some of their most notable features include programs tailored for kids under the age of 6 called the Theatre for the Very Young, the hosting of plays put on by local schools, educational programs, and sensory-friendly performances for families with special needs.

Ohio Theatre

39 E. State St., Columbus OH 43215

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Although demolished in 1969 after 40 years of providing entertainment to the community, the Ohio Theatre was restored by the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA). The successfully loyal restoration to the original Spanish-Baroque design, along with the velvet seats, velvet curtains, gilded ceilings, and giant chandelier, is an incredible sight to behold. With performances that range from classical music to modern dance, not to mention popular Broadway shows like Wicked and The Lion King, there's a little something for everyone to be found here.

Short North Stage

1187 N. High St., Columbus OH 43201

Spanning an incredible 90 years of entertainment, the Short North Stage has been everything from a vaudeville venue and movie emporium to a strip club and adult film theater. Taken over years ago by the Greater Columbus Arts Council, they've shed the notorious past and now specialize in reproducing Broadway and off-Broadway productions. Each year, you can find audience favorites such as Hair, Dreamgirls, Little Shop of Horrors, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and Altar Boyz, in addition to everything from puppet shows to concerts. You can also enjoy small productions at their Green Room Stage and food and drink at a speakeasy-style cocktail bar called Ethel's Lounge.

Palace Theatre

34 W. Broad St., Columbus OH 43215

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Aside from its delightful design, the first thing you'll notice about this original vaudeville house very well could be the excellent acoustics. The Palace Theatre was designed at a time when performers needed to be heard by everyone without the use of electronic amplifiers—and it certainly shows. Coupled with the fancy style that includes a grand staircase, fountains, chandeliers, and elegant ceilings, their performances of Broadway shows and symphony orchestras will bring you back time and time again.

MadLab

227 N. 3rd St., Columbus OH 43215

If you've been on the lookout for live improv, sketch comedy, or original plays, this venue is definitely worth checking out. Over the years, MadLab has helped breathe artistic life into the city of Columbus by providing performance artists a place at which to experiment with their craft. Perhaps the greatest thing about this particular venue is that they're constantly producing short plays, often having close to two dozen cast at once. And if you're a performer by chance or would like to dip your toe in the water, you could always stop by during one of their open stage nights.

Southern Theatre

21 E. Main St., Columbus OH 43215

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Okay—hang on to your hats! The Southern Theatre has been around since 1896! This makes it the oldest surviving theater in all of Central Ohio. Somewhat early in its history, it spent some time as an opera house, followed by a full-time movie house, but was restored by (you probably guessed it!) the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts and transformed into a live performance entertainment hub. This venue has a very heavy focus on music including performances ranging from Henry Rollins to the Brentano String Quartet.

Wexner Center for the Arts

1871 N. High St., Columbus OH 43210

The Wexner Center for the Arts has hosted everything from visual art exhibitions and film screenings to live theatre and dance performances. This amazing hotspot features two stages that allow for both small, intimate performances and much larger productions. You'll find a wide variety of live performances that include everyone from singular artists to full production companies from around the world. There's always something going on, so feel free to stop by anytime and see for yourself.

Incredible Performances

Which Columbus theater will you visit next?

There's no better way to warm up in the winter than with a perfectly blended cup of chai tea, which is actually one of the oldest tea drinks around. Cinnamon, clove, and warming spices combine for a delicious wintertime drink that can truly warm your soul. 

Columbus is known for its wide selection of cafes and coffee shops, so you never have to go far to find a chai tea latte in our area. Below are some of our top destinations to grab our favorite blended drinks.

Cafe De Nook 

175 S. 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215

This small, cozy Parisian cafe downtown has all your favorite espresso drinks, custom brews, and a wonderful chai tea latte. The drinks at Cafe De Nook are literary-themed, adding to the fun atmosphere. Stop in for your favorite drink or grab a delicious pastry. A vibrant, beautiful seating area with lovely decor makes this shop a great place to meet friends or get some work done. Current hours are 7 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday.

Parable Coffee

677 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43206

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Parable Coffee has a wide assortment of your favorite coffees and teas, including one of the best chai tea lattes in town. Inside, you'll find a big open seating area with tons of natural light and calming music to create the perfect peaceful ambiance. If you're on the go, online ordering is available. To create a welcoming community, Parable is a gratuity-free coffee shop. Stop by Wednesday through Sunday from 8 am to 2 pm.

Fox In The Snow Cafe

1031 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43201

This rustic-styled Columbus coffee shop and bakery was named one of The Best Coffee Shops in America by Food & Wine magazine, and it's easy to see why. Custom coffee drinks, teas, baked goods, and some amazing desserts are just some of the many highlights of Fox In The Snow Cafe. It's a popular destination, so it can get a bit busy at times, but the service is great, and the line moves fast. The shop is open daily until 3 pm.

Third Way Cafe

3058 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43204

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Coffee, books, and community are the three things you'll find at Third Way Cafe. This local shop is the perfect place to customize your chai tea Latte just the way you like it. The cafe opened in December 2017 in the Greater Hilltop area. It offers a beautifully decorated interior and an extensive book selection, making it a warm, cozy destination. To top it off, the staff is notorious for being incredibly friendly and accommodating. The shop is open Monday through Saturday until 3 pm.

One Line Coffee

41 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

Pick up a perfectly spiced chai tea latte in this brick-accented coffee house in downtown Columbus. With an extensive menu and a wide selection of pastries, a stop by One Line Coffee is the perfect way to start your day. It's a popular spot, so you may want to consider ordering online ahead of time if you're in a hurry. The shop is open until 7 pm Sunday through Thursday and 8 pm on Friday and Saturday.

The Roosevelt Coffeehouse

300 E. Long St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Not only does this non-profit coffee house serve delicious custom beverages and lattes, all of their profits are donated to global initiatives that support eradicating hunger, unclean water, and human trafficking. The Roosevelt Coffeehouse is one of the best shops in Columbus. Enjoy your beverage in their laid-back seating area and throw a record on the in-house record player. They also sell a wide range of roasted beans and teas, so you can brew your favorite beverage at home. Roosevelt Coffeehouse is open daily until 6 pm.

Stauf's Coffee Roasters

1277 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

With coffees from over 20 countries and an extensive selection of teas, Stauf's Coffee Roasters is one of the best stops you can make in the morning. This shop has been a Columbus staple for several decades. Service is fast and friendly, and drinks and pastries are delicious. Grab your drink to go or enjoy it in their cafe, which has plenty of seating.

The Bexley Coffee Shop

492 N. Cassady Ave., Bexley, OH 43209

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Tasty blended drinks and sweet treats are to be had at The Bexley Coffee Shop. Inside you'll find a quaint and cozy atmosphere. All of your favorite custom beverages are on the menu, along with a nice selection of breakfast, lunch, and snacks items. The shop is open Monday through Friday from 7 am to 11 am.

Highline Coffee Co.

693 High St., Worthington, OH 43085

Highline Coffee in Worthington makes a great chai tea latte and is definitely worth a visit. What makes this coffee shop unique is their in-house art studio located in the back of the shop, which features rotating exhibits from local artists. Grab your drink and take a look around. The shop is open daily from 7 am to 4 pm.

Spice Up Your Tea Options

Where will you go for a chai tea latte around Columbus?

Did you know that Columbus has one of the most vibrant international food scenes of any city in America? Whether you're an adventurous foodie, someone who loves to experience other cultures through unique cuisine, or you're just looking for a fun, fresh experience for your next date night, the authentic, international restaurants of Columbus are sure to have something for you. Start planning your next international dining adventure with our guide to going global for dinner around Columbus.

Los Gauchos Taqueria

5221 Godown Rd., Columbus, OH 43235

We start our journey with some familiar food from south of the border, cooked to absolute perfection. Los Gauchos Taqueria has long been one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in Columbus, best known for its famed Tacos Al Pastor, which blend sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Operated by the Nonatos family, the main Los Gauchos Taqueria location is a small, inviting restaurant perfect for enjoying a delicious lunch. The brand has become so popular that there are now three locations around Columbus, along with the original taco truck.

Hoyo's Kitchen

5788 Columbus Square, Columbus, OH 43231

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Up next is a trip to Africa – Somalia, to be precise. There is a vibrant Somalian immigrant community in Columbus, and Hoyo's Kitchen is an excellent place to sample authentic Somali food. Hoyo means "mother" in Somali, a fitting name since this restaurant is operated by the Hassan brothers along with their mother. Hoyo's Kitchen offers an outstanding Somali dining experience, with a delicious selection of bowls, salads, and wraps made with classic Somali recipes. There are some great vegetarian options here, with something that appeals to every taste.

Momo Ghar North Market

59 Spruce St., Columbus, OH 43215

For a taste of Tibet and Nepal, it's hard to top the experience at Momo Ghar North Market. Located in the heart of a bustling market, Momo Ghar has become famous for its authentic Tibetan and Nepali dumplings. Served alongside a spicy, flavorful sauce, these dumplings simply have to be tasted to be believed. Enjoy some time chatting with the friendly staff while your food is prepared, and take in the sights of the market. Momo Ghar also serves a great selection of comfort foods, along with Nepali and Tibetan desserts.

Brassica Sandwiches + Salads

680 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Take your taste buds on a journey to the Mediterranean at Brassica Sandwiches + Salads, where you can find traditional Lebanese cuisine and so much more. Inspired by their grandfather, who immigrated from Lebanon nearly 100 years ago, brothers Kevin and Darren opened Brassica with the goal of serving fresh, healthy, authentic food. Everything is made from organic ingredients, the meat served here is antibiotic-free, and the whole wheat pita is prepared fresh in-house every day. Order a delicious meal, and pair it with one of the distinctive, local craft brews available on tap.

Drelyse African Restaurant

1911 Tamarack Circle N., Columbus, OH 43229

We return to Africa to sample the flavors of Ghana at Drelyse African Restaurant, which was founded by Ghanaian chef Lisa Bannerman who moved to the United States 20 years ago. After serving delicious Ghanaian food to friends and family around Columbus, Bannerman decided to open Drelyse African Restaurant over a decade ago. Try dozens of traditional African dishes prepared with recipes that have been passed down for generations. Drelyse African Restaurant also offers one of the best buffets in Columbus, so you can sample a little bit of everything on the menu.

Ranchero Kitchen

984 Morse Rd., Columbus, OH 43229

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With a focus on authentic Salvadoran cuisine and excellent service, Ranchero Kitchen is a great place for a group outing. The husband and wife team of Aleyda Rodriguez and Julio Cesar founded Ranchero Kitchen as a passion project, with a smaller location at an international market. That smaller version of Ranchero Kitchen quickly became so popular that a larger space was needed, and the current restaurant opened to rave reviews in 2017. If you've been searching for a different spin on some of your favorite Latin American dishes as well as some unique recipes from El Salvador, you're sure to love a trip to Ranchero Kitchen.

Yemeni Restaurant

5426 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH 43231

Don't let the unassuming name fool you. A trip to Yemeni Restaurant is sure to please and give you a little taste of the Middle East close to home in Columbus. The menu is packed with authentic Yemeni dishes, all cooked fresh and served with a smile. The large, freshly prepared Tandoori bread here is always a highlight and pairs well with just about every dish on the menu. Yemeni Restaurant is also a community gathering place, popular among the many diverse cultures that call Columbus home.

Bonifacio

1577 King Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

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Our next culinary adventure will take you across the Pacific to the Philippines, with modern, home-cooked Filipino dishes served fresh in Columbus. Bonifacio was born from the Filipino tradition of greeting guests with a great meal and sharing modern Filipino cuisine with the world. Bonifacio is open for takeout and delivery, but it's hard to top the experience of sitting down for a meal at the restaurant. No matter how you order, you're sure to love the authentic Filipino dining experience at Bonifacio.

Akai Hana Japenese Restaurant

1173 Old Henderson Rd., Columbus, OH 43220

We close our culinary journey with some fantastic Japanese cuisine at Akai Hana Japanese Restaurant, where you will find the best sushi in Columbus and so much more. What started as a small, 40-seat restaurant has grown into an atmospheric 130-seat dining destination serving all of your Japanese favorites. Akai Hana has been a local favorite ever since it first opened its doors in 1986, whether you're looking for a quick, delicious lunch or a sit-down dinner with family and friends. Everything served is as fresh as it gets, with many ingredients imported directly from Japan.

Travel the World Without Leaving Columbus

Where will your next globetrotting dinner take you?

December is a month full of holidays, and one that you won't want to miss is Brownie Day! It's happening on Wednesday, December 8th this year, and it's the perfect reason to sink your teeth into one of those chewy, chocolatey delights. Making your own brownies is certainly an option, but there are also some amazing Columbus bakeries where you can pick up a few pre-made treats.

Mrs. Turbo's Cookies

178 W. Olentangy Street, Powell, OH 43065

They may have named their shop after their cookies, but they make great brownies, too. Mrs. Turbo's is the place to visit if you find yourself north of Columbus near Powell. They rotate their brownie selection often, so there's always something different to try. Popular flavors include S'mores, Peppermint Patty, and Coconut. The Buckeye Brownies are also delicious!

The brownies at Mrs. Turbo's are quite traditional. They're halfway between cake-like and fudgy, and they just might remind you of the brownies your mom baked at home.

Chocolate Cafe

1855 Northwest Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212

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If you need a reason to stop by a place called Chocolate Cafe, Brownie Day can be that reason! This bakery crafts a wide assortment of tasty treats, many of which are gooey and chocolatey. Their Assorted Brownies are a customer favorite. They're sold by the dozen and come in a variety of flavors, including Salted Caramel Pretzel and Double Fudge.

While you're in Chocolate Cafe, you may want to order a cocktail to go with your brownies. The Chocolate Cake Martini and Double Espresso Martini both pair well with chocolate. Since this space does operate as a full-service cafe, they also have a menu of sandwiches, salads, and soups. 

Happy Little Treats

1203 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43201

It's impossible not to be happy at a place called Happy Little Treats, especially if you're there to celebrate Brownie Day. This small bakery takes pride in their creativity. They always have colorful cookies and delectable donuts in their glass display cases. Their brownies are massive, and they make them both with and without pecans. Sometimes they even carry Oreo and blueberry brownies. You could easily buy one to share with a friend or family member — or eat it all yourself.

Happy Little Treats is a vegan bake shop, but even non-vegans rave about their products. They also have a coffee menu with plant-based options like their famous iced oat milk latte. If you're looking for something to bring home for breakfast the next day, try the vegan honey buns. They're as gooey and delicious as brownies.

Brownie Points, Inc.

5712 Westbourne Ave., Columbus, OH 43213

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Brownie Points was created by two sisters-in-law who are Ohio natives. The company started in their apartment kitchen and eventually moved to a brick-and-mortar store in Cleveland before relocating to Columbus. Since 1991, their brownies have brought smiles to countless faces. They've even begun shipping their brownies across the country.

At Brownie Points, they don't just have brownies. They have brownies in all different flavors and forms. The Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt is a fan favorite. If you like fruity flavors, then you may want to try the Raspberry Caramel Fudge. Not in the mood for chocolate? You're in luck! Brownie Points even has some non-chocolate flavors, like Very Vanilla and Butterscotch Sensations.

Cherbourg Bakery

547 S. Drexel Ave., Bexley, OH 43209

If you're on the east side of Columbus near Bexley, this is a great place to get your brownie fix. Cherbourg Bakery is a nut-free, gluten-free, and dye-free facility, aiming to make baked goods as safe as possible for their customers. But have no fear — even without these ingredients, their baked goods are incredible. The Espresso Brownies are mouthwatering if you're someone who loves coffee. 

In addition to brownies and other sweet treats, Cherbourg Bakery offers a lot of savory baked goods. You may want to pick up an olive oil mini loaf or a 3-cheese quiche to bring home for later. 

The Fat Girl Bakery

1347 Cameron Ave., Lewis Center, OH, 43035

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Located inside the Oak Creek Center, The Fat Girl Bakery is a fun and laid-back place to indulge your inner chocolate lover. The owner, Amy, considers herself an expert in flavors, and she has lots of fun pairing them together in new and unique ways. Their Buckeye Brownies bring peanut butter and chocolate together for a fun twist on the Ohio tradition.

The Fat Girl Bakery is known for its friendly staff and welcoming environment. While some people do take their treats to-go, staying to enjoy your brownie in-house is definitely encouraged.

Insomnia Cookies

2209 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43201

Insomnia Cookies made a name for themselves by delivering cookies to college campuses late at night. But you don't have to be a college student to enjoy their baked goods, and you no longer have to stick with cookies, either. They now have brownies, cookie cakes, and even ice cream if you visit them on-site.

Of course, if you really don't want to leave the house, you can have Insomnia Cookies deliver some cookies and brownies to your home for Brownie Day. Placing an order via their website is simple, and they'll get cookies to you in no time. 

Bake Me Happy

106 E. Moler St., Columbus, OH 43207

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If you eat a gluten-free diet, then Bake Me Happy is a great place to get your brownie fix. This is a 100% gluten-free bakery. They specialize in nostalgic baked goods. So, as you browse their menu, you will notice gluten-free versions of classics like Zebra Cakes and SnoBalls. Don't worry — they do, in fact, offer a gluten-free version of colorful Cosmic Brownies, which are perfect for Brownie Day.

If you dine in, make sure you pair your brownie with a nostalgic beverage, too. The Cereal Milk Cold Brew is uniquely incredible, and guests also love the Strawberry Nesquick Cold Brew. The flavors will remind you of simpler times.

Where Will You Get Your Brownie Fix?

In this busy holiday season, don't forget to celebrate Brownie Day! Where will you sink your teeth into chocolatey goodness?

Is there a more rewarding feeling than giving a loved one just the right gift? Put smiles of delight on everyone's face when you do your holiday shopping at these wonderful shops around Columbus.

German Village

The Book Loft of German Village

631 S. Third St., Columbus, OH 43206

Whether you're shopping for a devoted bookworm or a budding reader, you'll find the perfect gift at The Book Loft of German Village. Located in a pre-Civil War building, The Book Loft boasts an incredible 32 rooms, covering an entire city block, filled with bargain-priced books. Give a gift of a Book Loft t-shirt that earns the wearer a 10 percent discount on purchases. Hours are 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.

Helen Winnemore's

150 E. Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206

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Helen Winnemore's is the place to find a gift for that person who has everything. There really was a Helen Winnemore, and the shop originated in her Grandview home. While the shop eventually ended up at the corner of Kossuth and Mohawk in German Village, siblings Julie and John Jenkins still follow Helen's mission of offering one-of-a-kind pieces of wearable and useable art. Shelves are filled with jewelry, glassware, textiles, woodwork, and body care products made by regional artisans. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Short North Arts District

Global Gifts

682 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

Your gift benefits more than just the recipient when it's purchased at Global Gifts. The non-profit shop carries only fair-trade items made by disadvantaged artisans and farmer from more than 40 different countries. Pick up some chili picante plantain chips for your favorite foodie, or a woven sari cotton laundry basket from Bangladesh for that friend who just moved into a new home. Can't decide? Give a monthly subscription for coffee, jewelry, socks, food, candles, or books. Global Gifts is open 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.

Happy Go Lucky

787 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Happy Go Lucky is actually two stores in one. "Home" is a lifestyle shop with a full selection of furniture, wall art, rugs, and other home decor items. "Her" is a women's apparel boutique specializing in stylish dresses, pants and tops, outerwear, and loungewear that you'll want to have in your wardrobe forever. Follow them on Instagram for information on the latest arrivals, sales, and events. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Grandview

Glenn Avenue Soap Company

1166 W. 5th Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

Everyone needs a little more pampering in their life. Treat friends and family to some luxury with a gift from Glenn Avenue Soap Company. In 2009, Dr. Sandra Metzler, frustrated with the lack of natural products in the marketplace, used her biomedical engineering background to make soap in her kitchen. Four years later, she and her partner Phil began selling their high-quality products out of their home and eventually from their 4,200-square-foot storefront. Their soaps, lotions, essential oils, lip balms, and other skincare products are so amazing that you'll end up "gifting" yourself with some. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday.

Vernacular

1392 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

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While it's located in the heart of the Midwest, Vernacular has been described as "East Coast classic with a West Coast vibe." Husband-and-wife owners Kris and Chelsea carefully curate their womenswear and lifestyle store to offer on-trend merchandise at affordable price points. With their belief that where you shop matters, Kris and Chelsea source from brands that are eco-conscious, ethically sourced, organic, women- and minority-owned, and handmade in the USA. Each year, they donate a portion of their proceeds to local causes and educational outlets. Vernacular is open 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 5 Sunday. They also have locations in German Village and Worthington.

Clintonville/Worthington

Sugarbush Gourmet Gift Baskets

7227 N. High St. #100, Worthington, OH 43085

Spread cheer from the Buckeye State to family and friends across the country. Since 1981, Sugarbush Gourmet Gift Baskets has been creating and shipping spectacular gift baskets full of fresh fruit, chocolates, wines, cheeses, nuts, and other gourmet specialty foods. Choose from dozens of themed baskets or build your own custom assortment. Bestsellers include the Buckeye Bucket, loaded with cheeses, crackers, nuts, and candies that any OSU fan will love. Hours are 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - noon Saturday.

The Electric Sheep

752 High St., Worthington, OH 43085

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The Electric Sheep may sound like a place to buy farm equipment, but the quirky name belongs to one of the more original gift shops you'll ever find. This family-owned business is a workspace where artisans create all the products by hand. Have an idea for a special personalized gift? The crafters will work with you to bring your concept to life. If you want to learn to make your own individual gifts, sign up for one of their workshops on crafts from painting and laser engraving to assembling a charcuterie board. Hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Santa Claus Is Coming to Town

What's the number one thing you're hoping Santa brings you from one of the shops around Columbus?