Columbus has a food scene that’s way more exciting than most people expect. From tiny counter-service spots that will ruin you for all future sandwiches to fine dining that nails every detail, this is a city where you’ll never go hungry. Here’s a guide to some of my favorite spots around town — where to go, what to order, and why they’re worth the stop.

Wario’s Beef & Pork

This tiny sandwich shop packs a big punch — and a big sandwich. The portions here are enormous, so bring a friend or a serious appetite. If there are two of you, I recommend splitting the Caesar salad and one of their massive sandwiches (try the steak sandwich or the Warrior’s Way if you really love cheese) and adding a side of potatoes. Unless you’re trying to win an eating contest, you don’t need one full sandwich per person — they’re that big.

The bread is perfection — crusty but soft inside — and the sandwiches are saucy and rich, so come hungry. This is a heavy lunch, so plan to walk it off afterward.

Pro tip: Park behind Wario’s on the road (last time it was $1.35 for an hour). From there, you can walk to North Market and make it a whole afternoon — bonus points if you cut through the Nationwide Arena area because it’s a fun walk.

North Market

North Market is an indoor food hall with dozens of vendors selling everything from spices and flowers to full meals. There are so many great options here, but my must-try is Mo Mo Ghar. Chef and owner Phinsto Lama is cooking up Tibetan and Nepalese specialties in the middle of Columbus, and it’s so good that Guy Fieri featured it on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

Get the Johl Mo Mo (Tibetan steamed dumplings filled with chicken and covered in a spicy fenugreek tomato sauce) or the Choila Set (Tibetan chicken salad with rice, potatoes, and black-eyed peas) — Guy called it one of the most unique dishes he’s ever had.

Another solid choice is Barrel & Boar for BBQ. And no trip to North Market is complete without dessert — grab Jeni’s Ice Cream while you’re here (or at one of their other locations around town). Their flavors are inventive — Brown Butter Almond Brittle, Goat Cheese with Red Cherries, Wildberry Lavender — and the texture is ridiculously creamy. Do yourself a favor and get it in a butterscotch waffle cone.

Watershed Kitchen & Bar

Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you — inside is a moody, romantic space perfect for a date night. It’s also a working distillery, so you can book a tour ahead of time and see where the magic happens before you sit down to dinner.

Portions here are generous, so if you’re coming with a friend, I recommend splitting one appetizer, one entrée, and one dessert (unless you’re both starving).

Here’s what I tried and how I rated it:

• Crispy potatoes — 8/10

• Caesar salad — 8.5/10 (flavorful but skip if you hate cabbage)

• Mushroom pasta — 9/10 (add short rib for extra fun)

• Pork chops — 8/10

• Chocolate cream — 5/10

• Peach cobbler — 5/10 (too savory for my taste)

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

Lindey’s

Located in German Village, Lindey’s is a Columbus classic. The portions are perfect for a three-course meal, and everything I’ve ever tried here has been a 10/10. Make reservations two to three weeks in advance — by 5:30 or 6 pm, the dining room fills up and you’ll likely be out of luck without a booking. You can usually get a seat at the bar or on the patio if you’re flexible.

Their bread is baked fresh in Grandview, and it’s served with perfectly salted butter — simple but so good. If you happen to visit during Restaurant Week, it’s the best time to try a few extra dishes at a great price.

Speck Italian Eatery

Speck feels like a big night out — in the best way. The vibe is modern and stylish, and everything is house-made, from the focaccia to the pasta. Start with the burrata (served like a little cheese plate), get the heritage tomato salad if it’s in season, and then go all in on the pasta.

This is a great date night spot or a special-occasion dinner when you want something a little elevated but still approachable.

Bonus Stops

• The Woodbury — Candied bacon crepes, chicken hotcake tacos, and a vibe that’s casual but still special.

• The Lox — Perfect bagels, but be prepared for a seed overload if you get the everything bagel. The bacon, egg, and cheese is my favorite. Locals also swear by the Italian or Cuban sandwiches for lunch.

• Buckeye Donuts — Chocolate peanut butter donuts that aren’t too sweet, plus a solid selection of filled and cake donuts.

Final Thoughts

Columbus is a food city through and through. Whether you’re eating your way through a food hall, sitting down for a three-course meal in German Village, or trying to split one of the largest sandwiches you’ve ever seen, you’ll find something here to love. Bring an appetite, make a few reservations in advance, and leave time to wander — some of the best bites are found when you least expect them.