The Most Fun Restaurants in Columbus

Columbus sits smack in the center of Ohio and gives the state its rep for great college sports! The city has an energy and excitement that makes it one of the most interesting places in the Midwest. As Ohio’s capital city, Columbus gets its name from the famous explorer, Christopher Columbus! Columbus houses Ohio State University, one of the largest universities and football schools in North America. You'll also find the nation’s top science center and an impressive municipal park system. During a visit, you can stroll through the Short North Arts District, watch a game in the Arena District or kick back and enjoy some great food along the Scioto Mile downtown. The city’s incredible culinary scene keeps growing and growing, so serious foodies will have no trouble staying stimulated here! But where are the smartest, savviest diners eating out? Welcome to the Tastemaker Lists. If in the mood for a little entertainment along with your meal, check out our Tastemaker 20 List of the most fun restaurants in Columbus. Book a table today!

The OpenTable Team

7 Restaurants

Updated November 25, 2019

Restaurants:	Fireproof Restaurant, 1808 American Bistro, Service Bar…
Price Range:	$$ - $$$$
Cuisines:	Cocktail Bar, American, Contemporary American…
Neighborhoods:	Short North - Arena District, Delaware…

Fireproof Restaurant

$$$$

Cocktail Bar

Short North - Arena District

4.6

1394 reviews

If you’re looking for a fun restaurant in Columbus in the Short North - Arena District, check out Fireproof on High Street! It’s a casual dining spot with a focus on tapas ad Latin American food. The unique concept blends the modern Tapas Restaurant and a chic cocktail and wine lounge into one, offering a dynamic, fine dining experience with superior quality. The atmosphere is infections and vibrant and diners love to interact and mingle over great food and drinks. Menu highlights include the Bone-In Filet, Lamb Meatballs and the Wagyu Skirt Steak.

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1808 American Bistro

$$$$

American

Delaware

4.6

1641 reviews

1808 American Bistro is a popular new American restaurant located in Delaware, OH. This charming, rustic eatery has a super varied menu and locals think it is one of the most fun restaurants in Columbus. The food offers a hearty combo of Southern and Old-fashioned American food and offers plenty of staples, like sandwiches, burgers and salads. It has an atmosphere that makes diners feel like they are in a country kitchen and the food and welcoming vibes make customers feel like there is no better dining option than 1808 American Bistro.

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Service Bar

$$$$

Contemporary American

Short North - Arena District

4.2

504 reviews

Service Bar is a casual dining spot with a central location on Courtland Avenue. It’s the perfect place to stop for a fun meal after work! Executive Chef Avishar Barua creates delicious dishes that balance innovation and nostalgia. The creations give a nod to his Midwestern upbringing but also bring up hints of his Bangladeshi roots. Service Bar features full dinner service at the main bar, two large community tables for big groups or communal dining, and a variety of smaller tables for parties of two to six. Try some of the fantastic creations like the Cheesy Brisket Crunch or the Michelone Marzetti plate.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Cameron's American Bistro

$$$$

Contemporary American

Worthington

4.8

4054 reviews

Cameron’s American Bistro opened 25 years ago and continues to serve the Columbus community with delicious Contemporary American Food. It’s a local favorite in the Worthington neighborhood and has a reputation for having the most sincere and awesome waitstaff in the world. The updated menu skews heavily twoard old-school offerings, like calamari, crab cakes and filet mignon, but you can also find dishes like Cameron’s Walleye, the Frutti Di Mare and Dixie Pan Fried Chicken as specials. The location out in the suburbs means you don’t have to deal with a busy city crowd no matter what night of the week and it’s a great place to head for a celebration of any occasion.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Texas de Brazil - Columbus

$$$$

Brazilian

Columbus

4.4

3794 reviews

Texas de Brazil is not just your average restaurant. It’s a complete dining experience like no other and blends the traditions of Brazilian cuisine with generous Texan hospitality to create a lively atmosphere in an upscale setting. Start out with a visit to the salad area for seasonal roasted vegetables, fresh artisan bread, charcuterie, imported cheese and other specialties. Then enjoy the rounds and rounds of meat platters that come past your table and choose from the beef, lamb, pork, chicken, sausage and more until you are completely full!

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

SOW Plated

$$$$

Fusion / Eclectic

Upper Arlington

4.7

887 reviews

For a delicious and healthy meal in Columbus, head to SOW Plated in the Upper Arlington Neighborhood of Columbus. It’s a made-from-scratch restaurant concept built on a flavor-forward menu that rotates regularly allowing guests to sample local food and drink ingredients at the peak of freshness. They also have a full-service bar that seats up to 24 and a covered patio that seats up to 60 guests! Come early and take advantage of their Happy Hour drink and small plate specials. Their food spans many different styles including fusion, vegetarian and vegan.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

The Melting Pot - Columbus

$$$$

Fondue

Columbus

4.4

1649 reviews

If you are looking for an amazing restaurant where you can celebrate a big occasion, look no further than “The Melting Pot.” Relax in the inviting, warm atmosphere and let the servers discuss the menu options with you. They serve a wide selection of fondues, sauces and fine wines in addition to full 4-course meals. It is a wonderful place to celebrate a romantic dinner for two, a gathering of friends for a birthday party, Girls Night Out or holiday gathering, The Melting Pot is the kind of place that invites everyone to mingle and interact while you dine and drink.

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The Most Fun Restaurants