Being in a new city on business can be exciting and exploring a it's culinary scene is a great way to immerse yourself in it's culture. But often times, finding food that's affordable, convenient and delicious can be challenging. Not in Columbus.
Named a top 10 best food city in the U.S. by Conde Nast Traveler and one of America's most thrilling food cities by AFAR, Columbus has a food scene that's at the top of the food chain, without the price tag.
Let us help you take the guess-work out of your trip to Columbus with this list of budget-friendly dining within walking distance of the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
The North Market. Source: Experience Columbus.
North Market
About a 5-minute walk from the Convention Center, North Market is a 150-year-old public market with 30+ vendors serving up global cuisine all under one roof. We recommend trying Momo Ghar, a Mongolian/Nepalese concept featured on Guy Fieri's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, or Hoyo's Kitchen, a Somali fast-casual spot and a favorite of actor Will Poulter. North Market is a crowd-pleaser allowing everyone in your party to choose their own spot with plenty of indoor seating on it's second level.
The Pope's Table inside Buca di Beppo. Source: Experience Columbus.
Buca di Beppo
About a 5-minute walk from the Convention Center in the Arena District is Buca di Beppo, a family-style Italian concept open for lunch and dinner with a wide variety of menu items. Buca is a sit-down restaurant with group dining options (see the Pope's Table) available, making it a great choice if you're traveling with a crowd.
Budd Dairy Food Hall. Source: Cameron Mitchell Restaurants.
Budd Dairy Food Hall
About a 15-minute walk from the Convention Center, Budd Dairy Food Hall has been named a top food hall in the country by Fodor's and USA Today's 10Best. Budd Dairy features a range of local vendors including Tacos Rudos, Modern Southern Table, Cluck Norris and more. Budd Dairy has a three onsite bars (including one on the rooftop) for those looking for more than just food.
Pizza and wings from Mikey's Late Night Slice.
Mikey’s Late Night Slice
Located directly across High Street from the Convention Center, Mikey's Late Night Slice is a local pizza brand, selling New York-style pizza by the slice for quick and convenient meal during your session breaks. Mikey's is open late and is outfitted with a full bar in case you and your crew want to stick around.
Creole 2 Geaux
About a 5-minute walk from the Convention Center is Creole 2 Geaux, a is a popular Louisiana-inspired restaurant specializing in authentic New Orleans cuisine, including signature Creole bowls, po'boys, and gumbo.
Boston’s Pizza
About a 10-minute walk from the Convention Center in the Arena District is Boston's Pizza. A causal East Coast-style concept serving pizza, pasta, wings and more. Boston's is open for lunch and dinner has plenty of indoor seating so it's a great choice is you're traveling with a large group.
Goodfellas Pizzeria in the Short North Arts District. Source: Goodfellas.
Goodfellas Pizzeria
About a 5-minute walk from the Convention Center in the Short North Arts District is Goodfellas, offering a casual atmosphere and affordable pizza. Goodfellas has an attached speakeasy-style cocktail bar a large back room available for group dining.
Source: The Eagle
The Eagle
About a 5-minute walk from the Convention Center in the Short North Arts District is The Eagle specializing in Southern Fried Chicken and comfort food sides. The Eagle has private dining options for those looking to bring a group and accepts reservations for guest convenience.
El Vaquero
Just a short walk from the Convention Center is El Vaquero, a causal Mexican place serving up a wide variety of dishes all at an affordable price. El Vaquero accepts large group reservations and has an outdoor patio for those looking to dine al fresco in Columbus.
South Café and Marketplace (inside the Convention Center)
For those looking for something quick and casual, the South Café and Marketplace inside the Greater Columbus Convention Center has several options, including Chinese food, Jet’s Pizza and Subway.
