You may be familiar with Edwaard Liang through his work as a nationally recognized dancer and choreographer, but did you know he also has an affinity for food? Edwaard grew up and San Francisco and spent years working in New York City but admits that he, “couldn’t replicate his quality of life anywhere else other than Columbus, Ohio,” and as a foodie, Edwaard spends his free time frequenting his favorite dining destination in the city.
Edwaard serves as Artistic Director of BalletMet (the city’s professional ballet company) and resides in Columbus’ German Village neighborhood with his husband John (and Berna doodle, Bruce Banner) in Columbus.
We asked Edwaard about his favorite restaurants in German Village; here’s what he said:
Barcelona
If you’re seeking Spanish-style bites that will “wow” you, look no further than Barcelona. Their menu is made up of shareable small plates and unparalleled paella, to make sure you leave with full hearts (and stomachs). Edwaard has a fondness for a great glass of wine and Barcelona’s does not disappoint.
Barcelona is a proud, LGBTQ+-owned business in Columbus. View a full list of LGBTQ+-owned businesses here.
Fox in the Snow Café
Looking for great coffee and satisfying bites? Look no further than Fox in the Snow Café. Founded by a couple from NYC, Fox in the Snow has now grown to three locations in Columbus. Take your pick of fresh-baked pastries, rustic pour-overs in their cozy German Village café. Edwaard’s picks: Egg sandwiches (on amazing ciabatta) and a cappuccino.
Fox in the Snow is a stop on our Columbus Coffee Trail. Learn more here.
Sycamore
Known as the neighborhood "gathering place" Sycamore is the perfect place for breakfast, lunch or dinner in German Village. Nestled in the side streets of the area, Sycamore offers an intimate setting, with brick walls and elegant decor that only adds to its amazing menu of light bites, coffees and cocktails. Don't miss their seasonal menu of decadent dishes like Polpette Candido and Vegetable Tagine.
Learn more here.
South Village Grille
Distinctive cocktails. from-scratch bites and a modern, cozy environment? South Village Grille is the perfect destination for that weeknight dinner meeting or first date! Enjoy a variety of offerings with everything from fresh oysters to filling pizzas all in the heart of German Village.
Learn more here.
Lindey’s
There may not be anything better than eating on the patio at Lindey's. Add in their spectacular menu items, and you have yourself an ideal morning in German Village. Consistently voted one of Columbus' top restaurants, Lindey's combines high-quality dishes in an upscale, urban environment. Pro tip: come for happy hour to enjoy a glass of wine in their chic bar area, on weeknights from 4 - 6 pm.
Hausfrau Haven
Ready, set, sip! So it's not technically a place to "eat" but one of Edwaard's favorite places to taste and purchase wine is Hausfrau Haven. Hausfrau Haven is the city's largest boutique wine store and has been satisfying wine-os in Columbus since 1972. Edwaard and his crew love attending weekly wine tastings to try something new.
Learn more here.
