Columbus' German Village has a culture and history that runs deep. Since the founding of the city in 1812, Columbus has been a haven for immigrants. When German immigrants settled in Columbus they made the area south of downtown their home, and today the area is as much of a melting pot as the rest of the city. It's one of the best dining destinations in the city and there are many dining establishments that uphold the heritage and charm of the community. Here are a few of our recommendations!
Coffee in German Village
Find your new favorite sip from these shops in the idyllic German Village.
Fox in the Snow Cafe
Fox in the Snow Cafe is known for its delicious bakery items but also excels as a coffee shop. They serve hand-poured drinks ranging from drip coffee to chai and offer a variety of iced coffee and cappuccino options. According to Food & Wine, their Souffled Egg Sandwich is one of Ohio’s must-try breakfast items. Visit Fox in the Snow at 210 Thurman Ave.
Stauf's Coffee Roasters
The proof is in the cup! Stauf's is Columbus’ original café and roastery, where their small-batch roasted coffee, made from the finest specialty grade green Arabica beans, truly speaks for itself. Enjoy your coffee in their fantastic outdoor space. Visit Stauf's at 627 S 3rd St.
Winans Chocolates + Coffee
Winans is a coffee shop with a chocolate heart. The Winans family has been serving chocolate since 1961 and introduced specialty coffee as it gained popularity in the U.S. Handcrafted confections come from the Winans Chocolate Factory in Piqua, Ohio, while internationally sourced beans, processed with 25 years of award-winning experience, ensure peak freshness. Don’t miss out on their seasonal drinks! Visit Winans at 897 S 3rd St.
Community Grounds
This ever-changing community space offers a coffee shop, meeting house and event space for friends and fellowship over delicious coffee and snacks. Their menu has various offerings to satisfy any dietary needs, including vegan ice cream! Visit Community Grounds at 1134 Parsons Ave.
Breakfast and Lunch in German Village
Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy café or a hearty meal at a historic tavern, German Village boasts plenty of unique options to satisfy any craving.
Emmett's Cafe
This quaint café offers classic sandwiches with a twist that will keep you coming back! We highly recommend the Aussie Cap and their classic Breakfast Buritto. Visit Emmett's at 744 S High St.
The Old Mohawk
This historic eatery is celebrated for its classic American fare and timeless charm. The Old Mohawk features a menu with hearty dishes and a welcoming ambiance, making it a beloved choice for both locals and visitors. Visit The Old Mohawk at 819 Mohawk St.
Bendi Wok N’ Bar
Experience a fusion of flavors at Bendi Wok N’ Bar, where traditional Asian cuisine meets innovative culinary techniques. Their menu is filled with vibrant dishes that are both satisfying and unique, perfect for a casual or celebratory meal. Visit Bendi at 277 E Livingston Ave.
Katzinger’s Delicatessen
Katzinger’s Delicatessen is a New York-style deli standing in the heart of German Village. Their massive menu offers a variety of meats and cheeses to satisfy your sandwich needs. Visit Katzinger's at 475 S 3rd St.
Skillet
Self-billed as “rustic urban food,” this locally owned and operated restaurant features local products and flavors courtesy of a network of partner farmers, producers, and craftsmen and women from all over the state of Ohio. The limited hours of operation – from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday to Sunday - allow for peak freshness and flavor in all their menu options. Visit Skillet at 410 E Whittier St.
German Village Coffee Shop
Opened in 1981, this classic diner serves breakfast and lunch daily, earning a loyal following with its classic, strong coffee. Known for their Western Omelet, club sandwich, and a variety of mouthwatering lunch options, including daily specials, it remains a cherished local favorite. Visit German Village Coffee Shop at 193 Thurman Ave.
Brown Bag Deli
The perfect one-stop shop for grab-and-go specialty sandwiches and salads! We recommend trying The Village Addiction, smoked turkey, havarti and cranberry mayonnaise served grilled on sourdough. Pro tip: grab your meal and walk over to Schiller Park for a picnic! Visit Brown Bag at 898 Mohawk St.
The Thurman Cafe
This Columbus landmark has been serving the German Village area since 1942. This small diner is a Columbus attraction and dining experience that you must try, plus, it's filled with nostalgic keepsakes that add to the dining experience. Try their famous stacked Thurman Burger or their Original Coney Islands made from a family secret recipe. Be sure to plan ahead when dining at Thurman Cafe; they do not take reservations! Visit The Thurman Cafe at 183 Thurman Ave.
Dinner in German Village
Agni
Named among the 2024 best new restaurants in America by Bon Appetit, Agni invites guests to take a culinary journey with their multi-course tasting menu. What stands out the most about Agni, is that each dish is inspired by the travels, explorations, memories and culture of Chef Avishar Barua and his staff. Visit Agni at 716 South High St.
Lindey's
Lindey's is a longtime favorite among guests as well as locals. Since its opening in 1981, the restaurant has maintained its elegance and has also been named one of Columbus’s top 10 restaurants. This trendy spot provides white tablecloth dining with a refined menu perfect for special occasions or date nights. Plus, it has one of the best patios in the city and space available for rental! Visit Lindey's at 169 E Beck St.
Schmidt's Sausage Haus
A true German Village icon, Schmidt’s Sausage Haus began as a meatpacking house in 1886 and has since become a celebrated destination for German cuisine. Known for its currywurst, sauerkraut-bratwurst balls, and legendary cream puffs, this family-owned gem is a must-visit for a taste of authentic German fare. Visit Schmidt's at 240 E Kossuth St.
Cento
Celebrated as the 100th restaurant opened by Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Cento is an authentic Italian concept located in the heart of German Village. With a welcoming, intimate atmosphere and a stunning outdoor patio, Cento is the perfect place for date night or any special occasion. Visit Cento at 595 S 3rd St.
Barcelona Restaurant and Bar
Nestled on a quaint corner in German Village is a taste of Spain in Columbus. This LGBTQ-owned restaurant and bar resides in a 100+-year-old historical building, accompanied by an incredible patio, and serves only the finest Spanish cuisine. Visit Barcelona at 263 E Whittier St.
Sycamore
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, The Sycamore is a one-stop shop that can please all your dining needs. This bistro draws inspiration from the casual, laid-back elegance of Europe’s all-day cafés. Stop by for breakfast and lunch for casual counter service or make dinner reservations for a refined dining experience. Visit Sycamore at 262 E Sycamore St.
South Village Grille
Head to South Village Grille for up-scale American cuisine rooted in European techniques with a fantastic craft cocktail menu. South Village's dinner menu boasts tasty favorites like their Tuscan Shrimp and Steak Frites, along with a variety of classic pizzas. If you're into sushi, check out the menu Jony's Sushi next door—both concepts can be ordered to your table! Visit South Village Grille at 197 Thurman Ave.
Chapman's Eat Market
Named to the New York Times' top 50 places to eat in America in 2021, Chapman’s serves a wide variety of menu items, taking inspiration from numerous cultures. Some of their fan favorites include General Tso's Cauliflower appetizer and the Whole-Fried Branzino. Visit Chapman's at 739 S 3rd St.
Dessert in German Village
Pistacia Vera
From James Beard Award-nominated pastry chef Spencer Budros, this bakery specializes in French pastries and desserts and was made popular by their famous macarons and croissants.
Schmidt's Fudge Haus
The neighborhood's very own fudge haus specializing in handmade fudge, delicious chocolates and world-famous Buckeyes that all make the perfect gifts of a midday sweet treat.
Kittie's Cakes
Pop in for high-quality pastries, sandwiches and specialty coffee drinks that are sure to keep you coming back for more!
Bake Me Happy
This woman-, LGBTQ- and family-owned bakery is paving the way for gluten-free treats and goodies. The owners have a passion for creating foods that everyone can enjoy and bringing people together.
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams
Did you know Jeni's was founded in Columbus? Yes, Columbus! Founder Jeni Britton got her start inside North Market and has since brought her delicious flavors across Columbus and the country. Be sure to stop into Jeni's in German Village at 900 Mohawk St.
Cocktail Bars, Breweries and Taprooms in German Village
Savor top-notch craft beers, artisanal cocktails, and distinctive brews in the vibrant and inviting atmosphere of German Village’s best drinking spots.
Cobra
Cobra is a neighborhood bar offering Asian-American-inspired food and drinks late into the night, all within a laid-back and upbeat atmosphere. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis, the bar is known for favorites like Kochi Popcorn Chicken, Seasoned Fries, and Mama Chien’s Dumplings. Cobra has been recognized by the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation as one of the top 10 nominees for Best New Cocktail Bar in the Central United States. Visit Cobra at 684 S High St.
Antiques on High
AoH, the sister brewery to Seventh Son Brewing, specializes in tart and wild beers, hazy IPAs, and pale ales, along with a selection of wines and craft cocktails on draft. The vintage-inspired space features wood paneling, 70s-style seating, and various cozy gathering spots, including a main bar with booths and a wood-burning fireplace, a first-floor patio, and a partially-enclosed, four-season patio on the second floor. Visit AoH at 714 S High St.
Law Bird
Helmed by Annie Williams Pierce, the 2017 United States Bartenders' Guild (USBG) Most Imaginative Bartender in North America, Law Bird offers an art-deco atmosphere paired with carefully crafted cocktails. This Columbus craft cocktail bar, featured on the 2024 USA TODAY Bars of the Year list, is known for its ever-evolving drink and food menus. Still coming in 2024 is a Halloween popup in October, a customer-sourced greatest-hits menu for its fifth anniversary in November, and a tropical holiday tiki month in December. Visit Law Bird at 740 S High St.
Club 185
Operating since 1954, Club 185 is a local speakeasy that knows all about serving up comfort food that is sure to make you feel at home. Pair this with their large menu of spirits and there is no going wrong! Visit Club 185 at 185 E Livingston Ave.