Want to support local restaurants? Curious about new openings or under-the-radar finds? Here are five restaurants I’m suggesting you try this month!
1. Rishi Sushi, Kitchen, & Bar
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: we need to visit Rishi Sushi Bar more frequently. They have such a unique space downtown; their bar program features great cocktails, sake, and Japanese whiskeys; and the kitchen produces a delightful array of modern Asian dishes, from sushi to ramen and beyond. Make sure you order the sushi panini as an appetizer.
Rishi Sushi, Kitchen, & Bar
114 N. Third St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Learn more: Rishi Sushi, Kitchen, & Bar is a Hidden Gem Downtown
2. Star Kitchen Cafe
Late last year the owners of the Gahanna Grill opened a new casual eatery on South High Street called the Star Kitchen Cafe. Renovating a former fast food spot, they turned it into a haven for simply prepared but very-easy-to-love food. Head there for sandwiches, chicken tenders, salads, and rotating monthly features. I really enjoyed the Mack Daddy crispy chicken sandwich on my visit!
Star Kitchen Cafe
1471 S. High St.
Columbus, OH 43207
Learn more: Star Kitchen Cafe
3. Chuan Jiang Hao Zi
We rejoiced when we learned that the owners of Fortune Chinese Restaurant were back with a new eatery. We have many fond memories of meals there, and were saddened when it closed with the demolition of the shopping plaza at Olentangy River Road and Ackerman. Now they’re back in the new development with a new – slightly more sterile but still inviting – restaurant, Chuan Jiang Hao Zi! Check it out for loads of traditional Chinese dishes.
Chuan Jiang Hao Zi
496 Ackerman Rd.
Columbus, OH 43202
Learn more: Fortune Chinese Owners Return with Chuan Jiang Hao Zi
4. The Old Mohawk
Much as I love trying new restaurants, it’s good to remember the old favorites as well. Just before Christmas we revisited The Old Mohawk with friends, and I was happy to see this German Village staple is still going strong. It’s warm and convivial, and they’re still serving up hearty pub fare like bratwurst dinners, fish and chips, the Mother Mohawk sandwich with roast beef and chicken salad.
The Old Mohawk
819 Mohawk St.
Columbus, OH 43206
Learn more: The Old Mohawk
5. Piazza Pelino
The owners of Pelino’s Pasta opened a sister restaurant just in time for Holiday Hop last month! Piazza Pelino took over the old Piece of Cake space in the Short North. It’s a bright and colorful shop with retail wines and other Italian goodies, sandwiches on homemade focaccia, and freshly made gelato.
Piazza Pelino
772 N. High St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Learn more: Piazza Pelino Brings Fresh Focaccia and Gelato to Short North
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