Lindey’s is one of those classic restaurants in Columbus that delivers on every level — from the atmosphere to the food to the neighborhood it’s nestled in. Located in the heart of German Village, Lindey’s has earned its reputation as a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors, and after dining there, it’s easy to see why.

Making a Reservation

My first tip: make reservations at least two to three weeks in advance, especially if you’re planning to go during peak times. We were able to walk in, but that was only because we showed up early, around 5 o’clock. By 5:30 or 6 p.m., the dining room is in full swing and you’re not likely to get a table without a reservation. If you didn’t plan ahead, don’t worry — they do offer open seating at the bar and outside, which is a nice backup option.

The Bread and Butter

Let’s start with something simple that completely won me over: the bread. Lindey’s fresh makes their sourdough bread in Grandview, and it is perfection. Paired with salty, rich butter, it’s one of those starters that makes you immediately realize you’re in for a memorable meal. I found myself wondering if I could buy a loaf to take home — it was that good.

The Menu

One of the things I love about Lindey’s is that their menu changes seasonally, so there’s always something new and creative to try. The portions are just right, which makes it easy to enjoy a full three-course meal without feeling overwhelmed.

We’ve been lucky enough to dine here during Restaurant Week a few times, and every single dish has been a 10/10. Just to give you an idea of how thoughtful and inventive their food is, here’s what I ordered last time:

• Asparagus Salad: green and white asparagus, fresh herbs, preserved lemon, sauce gribiche, and pistachio crumble.

• Filet: a 6 oz filet served with buttermilk chive whipped potatoes, haricot verts with thyme, roasted mushrooms, and steak hollandaise.

• Chicken Scarpiello: pan-seared Statler chicken breast with crispy smashed marble potatoes, Italian sausage, wood-grilled local oyster mushrooms, pickled peppers, and crushed tomato sauce.

• Vanilla Panna Cotta Tartlet: roasted strawberry jam, fresh berries, and raspberry sorbet.

• Atlantic Beach Pie: lemon curd with a Ritz cracker crust and yuzu whipped cream.

Every single dish was beautifully plated, packed with flavor, and balanced perfectly. Lindey’s is one of those rare places where you can close your eyes and point to anything on the menu knowing it’ll be excellent.

Exploring German Village After Dinner

One of the best parts of a meal at Lindey’s is that you’re in the middle of German Village, one of the most charming neighborhoods in Columbus. The brick-lined streets have a quaint, European feel that’s completely different from the vibe in Short North or downtown.

After dinner, it’s fun to stroll around the area. Directly across the street from Lindey’s, there’s a cute boutique. Less than a quarter mile away is a historic mansion that once served as St. Mary’s School and Convent. Located at 673 Mohawk Street, the plaque outside explains: “Former site of St. Mary’s School and Convent. For over a century, this site was part of St. Mary Catholic Church, established to serve the many German families moving into the area in the 1860s.”

If you keep walking down the private drive and past the big church, you’ll find a charming candle and scent shop on the corner. And across the street? The Book Loft — easily one of the most unique bookstores in the country.

The Book Loft Experience

The Book Loft is like stepping into a storybook. You enter through a long hall lined with plants, complete with water fountains and flowers, and it feels like you’ve wandered into a secret garden. Then you start exploring the bookstore itself, which has — wait for it — 32 rooms.

Yes, 32 rooms. Each one is crammed with books, and you can wander from room to room like you’re exploring a labyrinth. It’s easy to get lost, but that’s the fun of it. Even if you’re not a big reader, walking through The Book Loft is an experience in itself. With over 750,000 books tucked into a historic building that’s been reimagined, it’s the kind of place you won’t find anywhere else.

Final Thoughts

A night at Lindey’s is more than just dinner — it’s an experience. Between the perfectly baked sourdough bread, the ever-creative seasonal menu, and the flawless execution of every dish, Lindey’s sets the standard for fine dining in Columbus. Pair that with a post-dinner walk through German Village and a stop at The Book Loft, and you have the perfect evening out.

Just remember: book your reservation early, show up hungry, and leave time to wander after your meal.

Know Before You Go

• Reservations: Book two to three weeks in advance, especially for dinner after 5:30 p.m.

• Walk-ins: Possible before 5 p.m., otherwise try the bar or patio seating.

• Parking: Street parking is available in German Village, but it can be tight. Give yourself extra time.

• Dress Code: Business casual is the norm, though you’ll see everything from jeans to dresses.

• Best Time to Visit: Restaurant Week is a great time to go if you want to sample multiple dishes, but Lindey’s menu is strong year-round.

• After Dinner: Take a walk through German Village — don’t miss the boutique, historic mansion at 673 Mohawk Street, and of course The Book Loft.