Local Restaurants in Columbus

No matter the time of day, you can find restaurants, rooftop bars and coffee shops steeped in innovation and excellence within walking distance from the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Whether you’re exploring before your conference sessions begin or planning a dinner after a busy day of networking, there are countless options nearby. Read on to discover just a few, some of which have even been featured in publications like Food & Wine and Fodor’s Travel, or click to jump to the section you're most interested in: Nearby Food Halls, Light Fare, Breakfast, Coffee, and Upscale Dining.

Downtown Dining and Hotels Map

Nearby Food Halls

Exterior view of Budd Dairy rooftop and patio

Budd Dairy Food Hall

Located in Italian Village, this chef incubator space was named one of the “Ten Best New Food Halls in the U.S.” by Fodor’s Travel.

North Market

Columbus’ public market of nearly 150 years, located across from the Greater Columbus Convention Center, offers a crowd-pleasing mix of traditional market vendors and restaurant booths.

East Market

The newest addition to Columbus’ growing list of food halls, East Market is located in Olde Towne East’s historic Trolley District.

Light Fare

Brassica

This Mediterranean eatery is a great option for those hunting for an informal but unique local eatery. Create your own sandwich, salad or pita for a filling yet healthy lunch.

Northstar Cafe

Known for its delicious, healthy dishes made with locally sourced, organic ingredients, Northstar Cafe is the perfect place to grab a bite.

Breakfast

Lox Bagel Shop

Stop in at Lox for a Food & Wine-lauded bagel experience! Featured in the “Best Bagels in America” and located in the Short North Arts District, Lox Bagel Shop is an undeniably delicious way to start your day.

Freedom a la Cart

With fresh menu items made from scratch and a workplace that trains local human trafficking survivors, Freedom A La Cart is worth a stop not just for its food but for its social justice work.

Coffee

If you have some spare time to head further into Columbus, check out the full Columbus Coffee Trail! Otherwise, enjoy the Trail options below that are within walking distance from the Greater Columbus Convention Center and nearby hotels

One Line

With a focus on sustainable sourcing and top of the line in-house equipment, One Line is a coffee lover’s delight. Family-founded and located in the Short North, head on over if you need a jolt of caffeine for your day.

Roaming Goat

Stop in at Roaming Goat to get the finest Arabica coffee from around the world, and enjoy the sleek aesthetic of this shop that’s located in the heart of the Short North Arts District.

Crimson Cup

Try Crimson Cup’s innovative, award-winning coffee to wake up your tastebuds.

Stauf's

Visit the North Market location of Stauf’s Coffee Roasters. Founded in 1988, Stauf’s is Columbus’ “original café and roastery.”

Upscale Dining

The Guild House

This intimate eatery in the Short North Arts District aims to offer innovative, seasonal cuisine whether you’re coming in for brunch or happy hour.

Jeff Ruby Steakhouse

Famous for “The Jeff Ruby Experience,” you’re sure to have an unforgettable time and delicious meals at this steakhouse.

Martini sign on North High Street at night

Martini Modern Italian

With made-from-scratch pasta and fresh ingredients in their dishes, Martini Modern Italian offers a must-try blend of classic and innovative Italian dining.

SoCal Kitchen + Bar

Serving delicious classics that range from steak to seafood, SoCal Kitchen + Bar offers a host of Southern California-inspired dishes and creative cocktails.