If you’re visiting this page right now, that means you’re looking for recommendations on the best bars to
try in Columbus, Ohio. Whether you are visiting for the weekend or you’re a long-standing member of the Columbus community simply looking for a new haunt, these are must-try places.
We chose to highlight businesses that are known for their wide variety of food and drink offerings, unique guest experiences, excellent customer service, and impact in the local community.
‘Plas Food and Drink
‘Plas Food and Drink offers a contemporary and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic date night, drinks and appetizers with friends, or a family dinner. Located in the heart of the Short North Arts District, ‘Plas provides a traditional but modern menu including craft cocktails, exclusive wines, vegan charcuterie, house-made charcuterie, and more.
Fireproof Restaurant
Featuring Wagyu Wednesday and Vegan Thursday, Fireproof Restaurant provides food and drink offerings for everyone. Not only can you enjoy the delicious taste of local tapas, but you’ll experience an alluring atmosphere with dim lights and a comforting feeling. In addition to their specialty menus, they also offer a regular dinner menu, a champagne brunch menu, and a happy hour menu with featured cocktails and delicious food.
Makers Social
Makers Social is the one-stop shop for an interactive bar experience. Guests can choose from a wide variety of DIY craft projects while enjoying local beers and hand-crafted cocktails. From jewelry, home décor, pet accessories, and more, you’ll have the opportunity to sip and create a custom piece with family or friends.
Wolf’s Ridge Brewing
Established in 2013, Wolf’s Ridge Brewing is a locally and nationally recognized dining and drinking experience. An incredible father and son duo came together to bring the art of craft brewing and innovative dining to the Columbus community. Between their dining room, taproom, and Hickory room, they provide a wide selection of food and drink offerings along with an engaging environment.
Lumin Skybar and Kitchen
With a beautiful rooftop experience overlooking downtown Columbus, Lumin Skybar and Kitchen is located on top of the AC Hotel Columbus Downtown. Their menu features Spanish-inspired dishes along with seasonal cocktails. Not to mention, a fantastic happy hour menu on Monday to Thursday from 4-6 p.m. Experience a breathtaking view while sipping a hand-crafted cocktail at the Lumin Skybar and Kitchen.
VASO Dublin
Known for its panoramic views of the Scioto River and Spanish-inspired menu, VASO Dublin is the go-to indoor and outdoor scenic venue for a night out with friends or family. Enjoy the view and scent of fresh flowing water with a crafted cocktail in hand. In addition to their typical dinner menu, they have a spectacular happy hour menu available from 4-6 p.m. every Monday to Friday.
R Bar
If you’re a hockey fan, R Bar is the place for you! Not only are they ranked as a top 20 hockey bar, but they have over 30 flat screens so guests can enjoy a meal and a drink while watching their favorite team. With over 18 beer offerings and a vast menu including appetizers, salads, wraps, pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches, R Bar is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a day of sports.
The Refectory
The Refectory provides an elegant dining experience featuring both contemporary American and classic French cuisine. The atmosphere has a historical touch as the original building was an 18th-century church and has since been updated to maintain a relaxing ambiance. Their in-house Sommelier can help guests find the perfect wine pairing for every meal with over 700 wine selections.
Strongwater
Located in the heart of East Franklinton, Columbus, Strongwater is a restaurant, bar, and event space with great historical meaning. Guests can experience an old-time feel and atmosphere with repurposed birch wood, terrazzo tile flooring, and classic food and drink options. Not to mention, they recently revealed a new brunch menu on top of their already spectacular lunch and dinner menu making it the perfect destination for a night on the town with friends or family.
The Keep Kitchen & Liquor Bar
Bringing a 1920s atmosphere to Columbus, The Keep Kitchen & Liquor Bar provides an interactive dining experience through their open kitchen set-up. The building embodies a historic feel accompanied by old-school cocktails and unique food dishes made with local and regional ingredients. Between the dining room and liquor bar, it is the perfect spot to grab a drink or have a relaxed sit-down dinner.
Agave & Rye
Tequila and taco lovers are not going to want to miss out on a trip to Agave & Rye. With over 70 types of tequilas and bourbons and over 20 different tacos, guests will enjoy a dining experience full of handmade food and fresh cocktails. You’ll feel the energetic atmosphere through handcrafted artwork throughout the building while experiencing epic food and drinks.
Townhall
Townhall is a must-try destination if you’re looking for a balanced meal and a feel-good environment. Featuring a NON-GMO menu approved by their in-house nutritionist, they are known for their broths and soups, cold and hot bowls, flatbreads, and more. Guests can enjoy a relaxed lunch with a fully organic cold-pressed juice and salad, or a night out with friends with unique handcrafted cocktails and shareable plates.
Alqueria
Located in the University District, Alqueria was opened in 2019 with the idea of bringing a unique and comfortable experience to Columbus, Ohio. Their rustic farmhouse-inspired location offers a wide variety of food offerings in addition to their eccentric cocktails, along with a featured happy hour menu from 4-6 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Veritas
Veritas prides itself on creating a unique dining experience for its customers with an all-glass kitchen so guests can watch as their award-winning chef brings their meal to life. Located in what used to be the Historic Citizens Trust Bank Building, you will endure a contemporary atmosphere along with innovative food and drinks.
Lincoln Social Rooftop
Enjoy your next night out with a beautiful view and a handcrafted cocktail at the Lincoln Social Rooftop. Located in the heart of Short North, you will sit nine stories up with a beverage made by their expert mixologists and choose from a wide variety of food offerings including sushi, pizzas, appetizers, and more! This is not a fine dining experience you’ll want to miss!
Want to Be Featured in Sixth City’s Best of Columbus Series?
As a Columbus business ourselves, we are always looking for other local central Ohio businesses to highlight for their diverse offerings, unique guest experiences, and local community impact. If you’d like to be featured in our Best of Columbus series, contact us today!
