Photo: Barrio

This post is part four of a seven part series featuring Columbus happy hours . Check back each week as Experience Columbus staff spotlight their favorite areas of Columbus to meet friends, share a drink and have some fun.

In this post, Kelly explores the happy hour specials downtown. You can also check out options in the Short North Arts District , Grandview , or Park Street . Stay tuned for future posts in the series, where we’ll feature the University District at OSU, Easton Town Center and Worthington.

Downtown Columbus restaurants are known for many different things - some are trendy and upscale, while others are more laid back and casual. Whatever atmosphere you choose, you’re also sure to find great happy hour deals. Whether it’s half-price drinks, specially priced bar menus or daily food specials, you can’t go wrong.

One of my favorite happy hours is at Barrio Tapas Lounge, especially for their 2-for-1 Tapas Tuesdays. Every Tuesday tapas are buy-one-get-one-free, all day. Create a new combination each week and never get bored, or stick with your trusty favorites (I recommend the Fried Potatos and Crab and Almond Empanadas). Pair your tapas with a half-price pitcher of sangria, and you’re in for a good night at a great price.

Check out more details and other downtown options: (more…)

Photo: Barrio

Owned by local restaurateur Jeff Mathes, who also owns Due Amici, Barrio opened in March of 2009. The tapas bar and lounge is open seven days a week and serves brunch, lunch and dinner. The menu features dishes from South America and Spain in a warm, neighborhood bar atmosphere. The wine menu is inspired by Argentina and Chile.

The new Express Lunch menu offers a wide variety of entrees to choose from, and sides including soup, salad, fries or chips and pico. Most items are around $10, making them a good value. I would recommend the fries, as they are deliciously drizzled with a sherry vinegar aioli, garlic and herbs. They are mouthwatering good.

My favorite menu item is the chorizo and manchego meatballs; I have been know to eat more than a few plates in one sitting. With any order you receive fresh bread that comes from North Market merchant Omega Artisan Baking , paired with a sweet creamy butter made with agave syrup and a side of ancho chili oil. (more…)