There's always something new to explore in the fastest-growing city in the U.S. Whether we're unveiling new top-notch attractions or restaurant concepts at the top of the food chain, you'll be asking yourself, "Can all of this really exist in one city?" Yes, Columbus.

Here’s your guide to the best new places to visit in Ohio’s capital city! See something we missed? Let us know here.

 

A picture of the sign at Littleton's Market Bakery with two shelves full of baked goods underneath.

Littleton's Market Bakery is inside the historic North Market.

 

RESTAURANTS IN COLUMBUS

Columbus is seeing an influx of exciting new food and beverage concepts. Here's the scoop.

RECENTLY OPENED

  • ZC Tea House and Yoru: ZC Tea House offers an explorative menu of Japanese teas and pastries. Just recently, they've added ZC Yoru, serving up Asian small plates.
  • OSAKA TON KOTSU: If you love Tonkatsu, a hearty, satisfying dish, which originated in Japan, then you have to head to this new concept. 
  • 698 Restaurant: An Asian fusion concept specializing in sushi from Daniel Chen, owner of The 1126 Restaurant and Song Lan Restaurant in Dublin. 
  • Marlow's Cheesesteaks: Proclaimed the "Central Ohio's Best Cheesesteaks," Marlow's is bringing a taste of Philly to North Market.
  • Macelleria North Market Butchery: The newest merchant to join North Market will sell fresh cuts of all your favorite meat and house-made items like bolognese, ragu, stews and chili.
  • Littleton's Market Bakery: Bakery items are back at the historic North Market. Little's Market Bakery (an offshoot of Littleton's Market in Upper Arlington) is now open under executive pastry chef Aaron Clouse.

COMING SOON

  • Rosalita: Highly regarded chef and creative mind behind Veritas and Speck, Josh Dalton is bringing a Mexican restaurant to Gay and High Street district.
  • Smith & Wollensky: This high-end steakhouse will make its return to the Columbus market with a location inside the Hyatt Regency in the Arena District.
  • The Rivington: This NYC-inspired cocktail bar, restaurant and entertainment venue plans to open in the Short North in the summer of 2025.
  • Isla: From Chef Andrew Smith, Isla will be an intimate dining experience serving a tasting menu in the heart of Merion Village, set to open in June 2025.
  • Metsi's: From Chef BJ Lieberman, Metsi's will be a Wood-Fired Italian Restaurant located in the former Hireath space in the Short North. Set to open June 2025.

 

Nancy Holt: Power Systems at the Wex

Nancy Holt: Power Systems, an exhibition at the Wexner Center for the Arts

 

ART IN COLUMBUS

New art and arts experiences are popping up all over town. Here's a list of things to add to your itinerary.

 

Scioto Mile Fountain at night

Scioto Mile Fountain. Source: Downtown Columbus Inc., Infinite Impact

 

ATTRACTIONS, RETAIL, EVENTS & THINGS TO DO IN COLUMBUS

There are new experiences and events to explore this season! Check out our list of can't-miss things to do. 

  • 614Sole: From 22-year-old Columbus native, Hawken Holm, comes 614Sole, a stylish new retail store on Front Street specializing in new and pre-owned sneakers, apparel, and luxury accessories.
  • Evolverie Clothing: The second location of this Worthington-based boutique just expanded to downtown! Shop for sustainable women's clothing and accessories down the street from your favorite restaurants. 
  • Artisans &: A new location for home furnishings and decor celebrating the "art of living beautifully."
  • Scioto Mile Fountain: Make sure to schedule some free time to experience the stunning $15 million renovation of the Scioto Mile Fountain. This iconic riverfront attraction along the acclaimed Scioto Mile riverwalk, named one of the best riverwalks in the country, provides a beautiful setting for outdoor gatherings and exploring. 
  • The Center City DORA District: Recently approved by the State, the Center City Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area will stretch from north to south between Nationwide Blvd. and Mound St. and east to west between Fourth St. and Gift St. It will operate seven days a week, from 11 am to 10 pm.

 

Get out and explore Columbus’ newest experiences and share your memories with us using #yesColumbus.