Welcome to Columbus, Ohio! Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or looking to add plant-based options to your rotation, Columbus offers a growing range of selections to meet your needs. From trendy eateries to hidden gems, this guide will take you through a few highlights worth checking out!
- Support Local Farm-to-Table Cuisine: Columbus prides itself on supporting local farmers, making it an ideal destination for vegetarian food enthusiasts. Numerous farm-to-table restaurants in the city emphasize using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Establishments such as The Guild House and Alchemy highlight seasonal produce and inventive vegetarian dishes. Fine diners can even find completely vegetarian-focused, culturally inspired prix fixe options at locales like Veritas, Agni, and The Refectory. By supporting these restaurants, you’ll not only enjoy delectable meals but also contribute to the sustainability of the local food system.
- Explore Ethnic Delights: Columbus is known for its diverse cultural heritage, and this is beautifully reflected in its culinary landscape. Head to The North Market (both Downtown and Bridge Park locations) where you can find a variety of international food stalls offering vegetarian options from around the world. From Indian curries at Flavors of India, to Mexican street food at Dos Hermanos, and Himalayan dumplings at Momo Ghar, there is something to satisfy every palate.
- Visit Veg-Friendly Restaurants: While Columbus has a growing number of exclusively vegetarian and vegan restaurants, many traditional establishments are also embracing the plant-based movement. Visit popular eateries like Brassica for customizable Mediterranean-inspired falafel bowls or Katalina’s for organic, local American brunch fare. Or check out Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace, known for its extensive vegan hot dog options. Don’t forget to try Mikey’s Late Night Slice, which serves up delicious vegan pizza slices that even non-vegetarians rave about. Finally, the Bengali-American fusion café at Joya’s from Top Chef alum Avishar Barua brings new flavors to Columbus with its Kati roll and “Not Pad Thai” dishes.
- Enjoy Vibrant Farmers Markets: Columbus hosts a variety of farmers markets throughout the year, providing ample opportunities to indulge in fresh local produce. The North Market Farmers Market (currently under renovation) and the Clintonville and Worthington Farmers Markets are just a couple of examples. These markets offer a wide range of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and artisanal products, making it easy to find inspiration for your vegetarian meals. Engage with local farmers, sample delicious treats, and stock up on seasonal ingredients to create your own vegetarian masterpieces at home.
Columbus has become an exciting destination for vegetarian food lovers, offering a diverse range of options to suit every taste and preference. Whether you’re seeking farm-to-table cuisine, ethnic delights, or veg-friendly twists on classic dishes, you’ll not only enjoy delicious meals but also contribute to the growth of a vibrant vegetarian culture in Columbus.