Columbus has been quietly racking up the accolades and it’s time we stop keeping it to ourselves. In our series, Behind the Buzz, we’re unveiling the people, places and experiences that make our city worthy and deserving of all the hype. Keep reading and you'll be asking yourself, "Can all of this exist in one city?" Yes, Columbus.
Even before Law Bird cocktail bar opened in late 2019, it was already generating national buzz. Punch Drink magazine called it one of the most anticipated bar openings of the year, and the accolades have continued rolling in for husband-and-wife duo Luke and Annie Williams Pierce and their team. In 2025 Law Bird was a James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Bar, and most recently, Food & Wine named it one of the Top 10 Bars in the United States.
We chatted with Annie about their adventures opening the bar, her local favorites, and more!
Annie Williams Pierce, courtesy of Law Bird
You’re just over five years into the adventure of Law Bird. What have been some of the biggest highlights during that time?
The highlights are undoubtedly all of the incredible people we have met, both in terms of staff and guests. It’s amazing how deeply this community has also impacted our personal lives!
Congratulations on being named one of the top bars in the U.S. by Food & Wine! What’s on the horizon for Law Bird?
Wild, right?! We plan to just keep doing what we do best – bringing the party and getting everyone involved!
Courtesy of Law Bird
For guests who are visiting Law Bird for the first time, what drinks or snacks do you suggest they try first?
You really do have to start with the mini martini. I mean, she’s cute as hell and the perfect thing to sip on while you read the menu!
When you’re visiting a new bar for the first time, what’s your go-to order?
I try to always start with something off of their current menu, and then if I have a second, it’s usually a classic, either daiq or mezcal negroni.
Courtesy of Law Bird
Other than your bar, what are your favorite places in Columbus to relax with a drink or grab a meal?
I’m willing patio season to go into full bloom, so anywhere I can take Miss Penny (my pup) and soak up some sun.
What are some of your favorite spots or things to do in Columbus?
LOVE the Columbus Museum of Art, COSI, Alley Islands at Blockfort. Penny and I are at Scioto Audubon Metro Park almost every morning – it might be one of my favorite places in the city!
Find Law Bird at 740 S. High St. in the Brewery District! Keep up with them at lawbirdbar.com or @lawbirdbar on Instagram.
