Topic: Columbus: Restaurant News & Info

[WalkerEvans]

Buckeye Hall of Fame Grill Opens Today
By Walker | November 23, 2010 1:30pm



The Buckeye Hall of Fame Grill officially opens their doors at Grandview Yard today, just in time for Saturday’s OSU-Michigan game.

Located at 775 Yard Street, the 8,000-sqft venue provides a casual-yet-sophisticated atmosphere where sports fans can enjoy a full restaurant menu, full bar that includes 16 draft beers, 43 flat-screen tvs and a 140-inch projection display.

READ MORE: http://www.columbusunderground.com/buckeye-hall-of-fame-grill-opens-today

[WalkerEvans]

MoJoe Lounge Coming Soon to The Lazarus Building
By Walker | November 23, 2010 4:30pm



The recently renovated Lazarus building located in the heart of Downtown is in the process of gaining a full service restaurant, a coffee shop and a bar… all in one tenant. MoJoe Lounge will be opening their third location this Spring at the corner of Town and High Streets.

READ MORE: http://www.columbusunderground.com/mojoe-lounge-coming-soon-to-the-lazarus-building

[Columbo]

More great updates.  Thanks, Walker.

[Columbo]

An interesting entry from Cleveland food blogger Michael Ruhlman about his 24-hour food tour of Columbus.  He was invited by Columbus food bloggers to tour Columbus after his unfortunate involvement in an episode of Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations” that dissed Columbus as "Applebee’s country". 

His tour included Skillet, Los Gauchos food truck, Middle West Spirits, Alana’s, Basi Italia, Rigsby’s Kitchen, Thurn’s Specialty Meats, Pistachia Vera, The North Market, Jeni’s Ice Cream, and City Barbecue.

MORE: Columbus, Ohio, Food

[mrnyc]

eh, im kind of disappointed in them, too many warhorses on that list -- to think they could have taken him to even more interesting than that! otoh overall i guess it was fairly broad and representative.

[Columbo]

That's a curious statement to say Ruhlman was taken to a bunch a "warhorses".  The only questionable one might be including the chain restaurant City Barbecue.  But I guess the City Barbecue co-founder bankrolled the tour, so okay it gets a pass. 

Otherwise, Middle West Spirits opened in 2010, Skillet opened in 2009, Los Gauchos is a taco truck that's maybe been around since 2008, Pistachia Vera moved to their current German Village location in 2007, Jeni's founded her company in 2002, Basi Italia is a tiny restaurant in Victorian Village, Rigsby's is a small chef owner/operated place in the Short North, and Alana's is a small chef owner/operated place in Old North Columbus.  Only Thurn's might be called a warhorse because its been operated by the same family for 120 years.  But isn't that supposed to be good?

[mrnyc]

oh come on man - dont misrepresent me like that! i didnt say they were all a bunch of warhorses, i said just too many on that list. city bbq definately had to go, too bad they were a sponsor. jeni's is known/served in cle now so a wasted choice. thurns? old isnt everything, that italian shop on 161 is better. rigsby's? alana/basi? what no figlio's? eh. columbus has more going on than fallbacks like that, i'd have replaced some of those with something newer/more interesting. i'd bet you would have too.

[Columbo]

You're the one who used the term "warhorse" not me.  So don't accuse anyone of misrepresentation. 

You may not have approved of the list but apparently Michael Ruhlman did.  He said this in his blog entry: "I’m willing to say now that Columbus exceeds Cleveland as a worthy food destination. And what that means is that Ohio itself has become an awesome food state."

[sfbob]

How Ruhlman can go one day and hit very few restaurants and make that claim is completely suspect. It's like visiting any big town, go to some had picked restaurants, it would be hard not to give accolades. Not sure if Ruhlman thinks his readers haven't a clue or what. Been to both Cleveland and Columbus and both have great options but my opinion is if you look at the big picture Cleveland wins hands down by far. 

[StrapHanger]

Wow, great write-up by Ruhlman!  Nothing wrong with a little intra-state competition.  All this makes me want to head to Columbus to try those places.  Especially the distillery.

[Keith M.]

City Barbecue has nothing on Ray Ray's Hog Pit, not to mention nationally renowned vegan cuisine at Dragonfly and other excellent vegan spots (severely lacking in the rest of Ohio). Columbus offers so many great places and cuisines that can't be found in the other Cs.

[asher519]

Apparently they're calling establishments like these "breastaruants."  Teehee.  Best line: "There was a real need for this kind of concept in Columbus."  I should say so 

On Restaurants
A visual feast
Tilted Kilt tempts with sports, 'man' grub and wee attire
Tuesday, December 14, 2010  02:51 AM
By Denise Trowbridge
FOR THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

Think Hooters, but in tartan.

The Tilted Kilt Pub & Eatery, a Celtic-themed sports bar and restaurant featuring scantily clad waitresses, opened recently at 8665 Sancus Blvd. in the former Cheeseburger in Paradise.

"There was a real need for this kind of concept in Columbus," said owner Peter Dimitropoulos.

He and his brother, Dimitri, own the Tilted Kilt and plan to open a second location near Canton in the spring.

 "It's a neat fusion of Irish, English and Scottish decor, but not a traditional Irish pub. We have mahogany wood everywhere, fun limericks on the wall, and sports, but the food and (staff) really tie it all together."

First-time visitors to the restaurant will immediately notice the sports: The Tilted Kilt has two 150-inch projection televisions, in addition to 34 flat-screens tuned in to sports such as soccer, college and professional football and basketball, and Ultimate Fighting Championship matches.

Then there are the tiny uniforms. The female servers, whom the company refers to as "cast members," are outfitted in short plaid kilts, white knee socks, plaid bras and white shirts tied up to showcase their midriffs.

Full article: http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/business/stories/2010/12/14/a-visual-feast.html?sid=101

[StrapHanger]

^And...we're back to the Applebees stereotype.

[Keith M.]

It's not a stereotype when it's on Sancus Blvd, ie Polaris.

[mrnyc]

You're the one who used the term "warhorse" not me.  So don't accuse anyone of misrepresentation. 

You may not have approved of the list but apparently Michael Ruhlman did.  He said this in his blog entry: "I’m willing to say now that Columbus exceeds Cleveland as a worthy food destination. And what that means is that Ohio itself has become an awesome food state."

aww dam. why you make me go willie on you again? 
come on maaan! you totally misrepresented me. you know that! i said there were were too many warhorses on that list, thats all, not that he exclusively "was taken to a bunch of warhorses" as you imply. you know that!!!


never fear -- per the hardly unexpected results you can be sure there will be future visits to fill in the gaps...     

[mrnyc]

 

[Columbo]

Did mrnyc really just smiley face himself?  Maybe he's turning into gfi, yaoming?

[Columbo]

It's not a stereotype when it's on Sancus Blvd, ie Polaris.

Yep.  The "Hooters with less clothes" concept is located next to Hooters!

Apparently they're calling establishments like these "breastaurants."  Teehee.  Best line: "There was a real need for this kind of concept in Columbus."  I should say so 

That was a great line!  Columbus is a large enough metropolis to have both the best restaurants and the best "breastaurants".

[Columbo]

A pretty funny review of the Tilted Kilt from Columbus Alive:

New bar: Tilted Kilt
Thursday, December 9, 2010 
By John Ross, Columbus Alive

Before I'm halfway through my first beer, three girls dressed in mini-skirts and push-up bras have sauntered over to my table, introduced themselves, asked if I needed anything and, when I didn't, assured me they'd check back just in case.

Before I can even order a cheese pizza, the flirty battalion buzzing through the giant barroom nearly has me convinced that I have never smelled better, looked more attractive or sounded so eloquent and charming.  The perennially cheery Becca, my table's main point person, sits down several times to chat.

Welcome to Tilted Kilt, a nationwide franchise that combines sports on TV, cut-above pub grub and the power of egregious flirtation to make a man drink up and feel welcome.

MORE: http://www.columbusalive.com/live/content/features/stories/2010/12/08/new-bar-tilted-kilt.html?sid=108

[Columbo]

Refectory, M rated highest by AAA among area restaurants
Business First - by Dan Eaton
Tuesday, December 7, 2010, 9:47am EST

Two of Columbus’ most heralded dining destinations have again been singled out by AAA as the cream of the Central Ohio crop.

For the 16th consecutive year, the Refectory at 1092 Bethel Road is receiving Four Diamond recognition from the motoring and leisure travel organization, while M at 2 Miranova Place has earned the rating for a fifth time.

MORE: http://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/blog/2010/12/refectory-m-rated-highest-by-aaa.html

[Columbo]

Information on Franklinton Restaurant Week from the Franklinton Development Association:



"We (the Franklinton Development Association) and the Franklinton Board of Trade are hosting a special event the last week of 2010 to help raise money for one of our big sponsors, the United Way of Central Ohio.  We've partnered with 4 locally-owned restaurants along West Broad Street and each will feature a special on one day December 27-30, with the proceeds benefitting our 2010 UW Campaign."

• Monday, December 27, 2010 – Tommy’s Diner (914 W Broad) will feature the “Franklinton Burger”
• Tuesday, December 28, 2010 – The Florentine (907 W Broad) will feature “All You Can Eat Spaghetti”
• Wednesday, December, 29, 2010 – Phillip’s Coney Island (450 W Broad) will feature “Wiener Wednesday”
• Thursday, December 30, 2010 – Milo’s Deli (980 W Broad) will feature “Milo’s Reuben”

MORE AT: http://www.columbusunderground.com/forums/topic/franklinton-restaurant-week and http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=172025229497058&ref=mf

[mrnyc]

Did mrnyc really just smiley face himself?  Maybe he's turning into gfi, yaoming?

actually no. i double posted and you cant get rid of a post when you do that!

[Keith M.]

I'm gonna be doing the Fton Restaurant Week. Hopefully with more and more attention being brought to the area there'll be a few brand new restaurants on that list next year.

[GCrites80s]

I don't know if F-ton is the best shorthand name for Franklinton, hehe

[Columbo]

Did mrnyc really just smiley face himself?  Maybe he's turning into gfi, yaoming?

actually no. i double posted and you cant get rid of a post when you do that!

Well, that makes alot more sense.  yaoming withdrawn

[Columbo]

Grandview's Clay Cafe moving, clearing way for Third & Hollywood expansion
Business First - by Dan Eaton
Date: Wednesday, December 22, 2010, 12:50pm EST

A shuffle of two Grandview Heights-area businesses is expected to pay dividends for both.

The Clay Cafe plans in January to move from its current space at 1431 W. Third Avenue to the former home of the Red Chair consignment shop at 1644 W. Fifth Avenue.  That move will allow the Third & Hollywood restaurant, which has shared the building with the paint-your-own pottery studio, to add a private dining room.

MORE:  http://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2010/12/22/grandview-retailers-moving-expanding.html

[Columbo]

A Behind The Scenes Look at The Jury Room
By Walker | December 6, 2010 11:30pm

In September, we announced that restaurateur Elizabeth Lessner and her husband Harold LaRue would be taking over the Jury Room, located at 22 E. Mound Street, in the heart of Downtown.  Fast forward to three months later and a major transformation has taken place behind the scenes.

READ MORE: http://www.columbusunderground.com/a-behind-the-scenes-look-at-the-jury-room



More information can be found online at www.juryroom.net.

[Keith M.]

Of course, the city of Columbus didn't make it easy for her. Definitely answers part of the question of why there are so many empty storefronts in Downtown and other urban neighborhoods. I can't help but wonder how many good establishments (dozens?) never opened in the inner-city specifically because of widespread and negative word-of-mouth experiences from existing entrepreneurs in dealing with the city. This is especially harmful for the very few urban pioneers who would even consider opening up a desirable business (like a good restaurant) in a rougher neighborhood. Once you've scared them off you've delayed the real possibility of some major revitalization occurring off of High St.

[Columbo]

More about the reopening of The Jury Room:

Remodeled Jury Room hopes to relive past glory
Tuesday, December 28, 2010 
By Denise Trowbridge
For The Columbus Dispatch

At the Jury Room, it's 1831 all over again.  The bar at 22 E. Mound Street first opened in that horse-and-buggy era.  On Sunday, it's scheduled to open again with a new owner, a new kitchen and a new menu.

The Betty's Family of Restaurants bought the Jury Room in September and has spent the months since renovating the place, thought to be Columbus' oldest bar in continuous operation until its temporary closing.

MORE: http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/business/stories/2010/12/28/case-reopened.html

[Columbo]

From Columbus Underground:

Good Eats: Columbus Restaurants Opened in 2010

2010 was a great year for food.  We counted 35 new restaurants that opened over the past calendar year, and I’m positive that we’re probably missing at least a few others.  We’ve listed them out below for your end-of-the-year reviewing pleasure.  Which new restaurant was your favorite, and which ones do you still need to try?

Downtown Restaurant Scene Continues to Expand:
Spinelli’s Deli (N. High Street)
Sugardaddy’s Sumptuous Sweeties (Corner of Gay & High)
Little Palace (S. Fourth Street)
Lynnalley’s (Lynn Alley between Broad & Gay)
The Pickle (N. Third Street)
Si Senor (E. Long & High Streets)
Caffe Illyria (E. State Street)
Michael O’Toole’s (E. Nationwide Blvd.)
Knead (N. High Street / Convention Center area)

Much Ado About Upper Arlington:
Giant Eagle Market District (Kingsdale Shopping Center)
Park Creek Kitchen (Old Town UA)
Whit’s Frozen Custard (Old Town UA)
Louie’s Grill (Kingsdale)
Cibo (Reed Road)
Gallo’s Kitchen & Bar (Riverside Drive) 
Piada (Lane Avenue)

A Late Night Bite and a Drink:
343 Front Street (Arena District)
Bernard’s Tavern (Short North)
Mouton (Short North)
Bar L’étranger (Weinland Park)
Park Street Cantina (Arena District)
Park Street Saloon (Arena District)

The Grandview Heights and 5xNW Areas:
Aab India (Grandview Avenue)
Buckeye Hall of Fame Grille (Grandview Yard)
Jason’s Deli (Grandview Yard)
Loops (Northwest Boulevard)

A Few New Reasons for Non-Students to hit the University District:
Taste of Belgium Cafe (Wexner Center)
Pizza Rustica (South Campus Gateway)
Gooeyz (South Campus Gateway)

Other Newcomers Around Town: 
Da LaVee (Short North)
Coyote Jane’s (Merion Village)
Jeni’s Ice Creams (new locations in Beechwold and Powell)
Northstar Cafe (new location at Easton Town Center)
Graffiti Burger (new location in Clintonville)
Cafe Kabul (University City Shopping Center)

READ MORE: http://www.columbusunderground.com/good-eats-columbus-restaurants-opened-in-2010

[WalkerEvans]

Wedgewood Pizza Comes to Columbus
By Chris Blazakis | January 11, 2011



For those who haven’t heard, a Wedgewood Pizza shop recently opened in Grove City. Now, I must disclose before even beginning this review that I have a certain bias. I grew up in Youngstown, Ohio, home of Wedgewood Pizza, and consider myself to be a huge fan of this hometown favorite. Wedgewood was a Friday night tradition with my family, and I have many fond memories of enjoying a slice while watching Sunday afternoon football. My hope is not only that this pizzeria thrives in Grove City, but that it is so successful that it expands to other metro areas - including downtown Columbus.

READ MORE: http://www.columbusunderground.com/wedgewood-pizza-comes-to-columbus

[Columbo]

A trio of reviews on the newly opening Hubbard Bar and Grille at the corner of High & Hubbard in the Short North:

The Other Paper:  As a restaurant, it’s a great place to drink: The kitchen needs to work on getting food orders out faster - Despite the requisite headline snark from TOP, they did add, "Hubbard Grille makes a fine bar and a gorgeous Short North hangout.  As such, it should have no problem staying afloat while it works out the kinks in the kitchen."

Columbus Dispatch:  Fresh design: Hubbard Grille in the Short North is in a building that lacks a walk-in cooler.  For customers, that means fresh ingredients every day.

Columbus Alive:  Restaurant review: Hubbard Bar and Grille

[Columbo]

More about the reopening of The Jury Room:

Remodeled Jury Room hopes to relive past glory
Tuesday, December 28, 2010 
By Denise Trowbridge
For The Columbus Dispatch

At the Jury Room, it's 1831 all over again.  The bar at 22 E. Mound Street first opened in that horse-and-buggy era.  On Sunday, it's scheduled to open again with a new owner, a new kitchen and a new menu.

The Betty's Family of Restaurants bought the Jury Room in September and has spent the months since renovating the place, thought to be Columbus' oldest bar in continuous operation until its temporary closing.

MORE: http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/business/stories/2010/12/28/case-reopened.html

One more note about the Jury Room reopening. From Walker at Columbus Underground:

Via Facebook:  The Jury Room Inspections are OVER! See you for Dinner Thurs-Sun, 5pm-2am, then open for lunch, dinner and late night beginning on Monday, 1/23.

[Columbo]

Restaurant Review | MASALA BBQ
Fragrant, beef-free menu short but memorable
Thursday, January 6, 2011
By JON CHRISTENSEN
The Columbus Dispatch

Newly opened in a space west of Polaris Fashion Place that has had its share of Indian places, Masala BBQ brings a lot of flavor to the table.

It also has an unusual menu, billed as Indian and Pakistani.  No beef is served.  And, compared with that of most other Indian restaurants, the menu is compact - which often allows for a higher quality.  The meats are advertised as halal-certified.

Full review and location map: http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/weekender/stories/2011/01/06/fragrant-beef-free-menu-short-but-memorable.html?sid=101

[Columbo]

Restaurant Review | CAFE DEL MONDO
Daytime gem dishes up Italian with value, high quality
Thursday, January 20, 2011
By JON CHRISTENSEN
The Columbus Dispatch

Originally an importer and a distributor of better-quality foods and ingredients, Cafe del Mondo has evolved into one of the best restaurant bargains in town.

The breakfast-and-lunch operation, though close to Downtown, is easy to overlook in its concrete-block building just north of I-670.  Inside are three informal dining areas.  Ordering and paying are done at a counter in front of the food-preparation area; the food is served at the table when ready.

The mostly Italian menu is supplemented with specials.

Full review and location map: http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/weekender/stories/2011/01/20/daytime-gem-dishes-up-italian-with-value-high-quality.html?sid=101

Cafe del Mondo - 659 N. 4TH ST.
WWW.FRUTTADELMONDO.COM