Author: mccartney.158

1 – Best Outdoor Patio (with a special bonus of food truck – Ray Ray’s Hog Pit which is there every weekend):  Land Grant Brewing Company 

https://landgrantbrewing.com/ 

In the winter – they have a wintergarden and you can even book a curling lane J  

Columbus Underground’s Top Columbus Brewery of 2021+2022  

614 Magazine Columbest best drinking patio in Columbus 2022  

Food Truck Weekend Freqents: Late Night Slide & Ray Ray’s 

 

 https://rayrayshogpit.com/ 

 

 

2 – Best Outdoor Patio, Runner Up (Rooftop seating) – Seventh Son Brewing 

 

 

 

 

3 – Best Brewery with Outdoor Concert Venue – Edison Brewing Company (added bonus of getting to watch the planes land at the airport)

 

 

 

4 – Best Brewery with Sit Down/ Formal Dinner – Wolf’s Ridge Brewing (need to sit upstairs for full dinner, not in the tap room downstairs, best to make reservations) 

 Menu: https://www.wolfsridgebrewing.com/dining-room  

 

 

 

 5 – Best Brewery to take you dog to – Brew Dog (need to go to primary location in Canal Winchester for the Dog Park) 

 

https://www.brewdog.com/usa 

Annual General Mayhem concert: https://www.brewdog.com/usa/agm-usa-2023 

 

 

6 – Best IPA – Hoof Hearted Brewing (Derive Brewing is a very close second) 

 www.derivebeer.com  

drink menu: https://www.derivebeer.com/drink-menu.html 

food menu: https://www.derivebeer.com/food-menu.html  

 

 

 

 7 – Best Stouts – Jackie O’s (whenever Columbus tap room ACTUALLY opens..) and Zaftig Brewing (increased variety at the tap room/distribution center in Worthington compared to downtown location)  

 

8 – Best Sours – Pretentious Barrel House (beware – minimal variety outside of sours, best to go only if you’re committed..) 

 

 

 

  

Match Day, 2012. Opening that envelope revealed I would be doing my Internal Medicine – Pediatrics residency training at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Although I had no specific ties to Columbus, I was ecstatic that I would be training at an amazing program and excited for new experiences.  

Over the next four years, I learned a lot. I learned how to really be a doctor and what that meant. I worked long hours. There were times that were emotionally draining. I made mistakes and learned from them. I learned how to be resilient and learned a lot about myself. Throughout all this, the supportive environment, friendships, and mentors at OSU were key.  

I also found a lot of fun things to do in Columbus. There are lots of summer festivals for whatever your interests are, concerts that come through, lots of great neighborhoods with great food, trails for walking/running/biking. This may sound silly, but I also love how well laid out the freeway system and city are laid out – you can get pretty much anywhere in about 20 minutes. The airport is also very accessible, so it’s easy to travel to other places.  

As I was finishing residency, I decided that I wanted to be a hospitalist. I also wanted to continue taking care of both adult and pediatric patients and to continue to work with learners. I interviewed at a few different places, but ultimately, staying at OSU/NCH was the right choice for me. Not only was I able to do all the things I wanted to do, but there is so much support and opportunity for growth, development and mentorship here. There is the opportunity to make connections and collaborate with others and make your career whatever you want it to be. 

Written by Sharon Clark, MD, Clinical Associate Professor, Hospitalist, Internal Medicine-Pediatrics. 

I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii where most of my immediate and extended family remain. When I left home for college, I always thought that one day I would move back to “Paradise.” Turns out life had other plans for me. 

 

Looking back, I realize that it all started the day I left for college. On this day, I happened to meet my now husband (Paul) on the airplane. We were both moving into the same freshman dorm. He was also born and raised in Hawaii, and we were both headed to Saint Louis, MO of all places—I call it fate lol. 

 

Long story short, I was attending Saint Louis University’s (SLU) Medical Scholars Program and stayed at SLU for medical school as planned. I then went to my first choice, Case Western/UH Cleveland Medical Center in Cleveland, OH, for my Internal Medicine Residency and IM Chief Residency. Some of my fondest memories are from my residency. I loved the people and met some of my best friends there, but for a girl from Hawaii…. those Cleveland winters were rough.  

 

Paul was doing his Orthopedic Residency in Columbus, OH and, if I am completely honest, that’s how OSU got on my radar for GI fellowship. However, when I interviewed at OSU, I was very excited to learn how supportive the fellowship was in my desire to pursue a career in Esophagology. Like other programs, OSU was going to provide strong clinical training, research opportunities etc, but it was the flexibility and supportive leadership that stood out to me. True to their word, I was able to tailor my fellowship to align with my career goals. 

 

One of the things I didn’t expect about this fellowship is how supportive it is of family planning and parental leave. As a co-chief fellow during my third year, I took 12 weeks of maternity leave to have my son without needing to extend my fellowship. Probably more surprising is that four other fellows had babies that year and we made it a priority to support everyone’s parental leave while creating an overall balanced schedule. We often make a lot of sacrifices in our personal lives for our careers; it was a blessing that having a baby did not have to be one of those sacrifices. 

 

I decided to join the OSU faculty after graduation. There were many reasons for this, but a big one was the camaraderie amongst the attendings. It was really great to have solid support my first year out of fellowship, and I was also able to start my career as an esophageal specialist. Many of my mentors have become good friends and this played a big role in my decision to return to OSU. 

 

Which leads me to where I am now. This year, we’re in Tennessee for my husband’s Orthopedic hand fellowship. You would think a couple of Hawaii locals might like the warmer weather. Turns out we both prefer the Midwest!  We considered moving to California or back to Hawaii after Paul’s fellowship to be closer to family, but after some deep reflection we decided the high cost of living wasn’t right for our family at this point in time.  

 

The decision to move back to Columbus was pretty easy when Paul found a job he was excited about in Ohio. We knew that Columbus is a family-friendly city and a great place to settle down. There are a lot of great neighborhoods with good school districts to buy a house. We are particularly looking forward to visiting the Columbus Zoo, the COSI science museum, the Botanical Gardens, and the Scioto Mile splash pad with our little one when we return. 

 

As for my professional life, OSU is a place of opportunities and I’m very excited to grow my career as an Esophagologist. You never know what life has in store for you, but it sure has been an amazing ride so far.  

 By Megan Chan, Assistant Clinical Professor, Gastroenterology (Officially back at Ohio State!)

Columbus, Ohio is an amazing place to visit and explore. With so much to see and do, it’s hard to know where to start! Fortunately, there are lots of great places to explore in the area that are not only packed with free and cheap opportunities but are also totally unique experiences. In this blog post, we will take a look at a variety of attractions, events, and activities around Columbus. We’ll start with a few free and cheap options for the budget-minded soul. 

The Columbus on the Cheap website is a great resource for finding free and cheap events in the area. From free concerts to art walks, this website will have you covered with information on budget-friendly events and activities in the area.  

The Franklin Park Conservatory is a top attraction in the Columbus area. It is free to access its external grounds, but the indoor galleries are still well worth a visit, costing only $9 for an adult ticket. The conservatory features rotating displays of art and nature, making your visit unique and educational every single time.  

The Park of Roses is a charming spot offering a formal rose garden and a host of activities for visitors of all ages. It’s perfect for strolling, picnicking, and taking in the beauty of nature for free.  

Griggs Reservoir is the perfect destination to enjoy hiking, cycling, fishing, wildlife viewing, and more. It’s free to access and offers incredible views of the surrounding area.  

The Columbus Museum of Art is another excellent option for budget-minded visitors. While an adult ticket costs $18, students and those under 18 are $9 admission, making it a great choice for families. The museum’s collection covers a wide range of subjects, from modern and post-modern art to photography, ceramic sculpture, and more. There are also free public tours available to help visitors get the most out of their experience. 

The Art Walk is a Columbus institution, taking place on the first Thursday of every month. This self-guided art tour takes you through the city’s downtown area, taking in galleries, pop-up shops, and other art-related businesses. It’s a grassroots event that offers something for art lovers of all ages and backgrounds. 

The Gallery Hop in the Short North is similar to the Art Walk, but instead takes place on the first Saturday of each month. It serves as a way for locals and tourists alike to explore the city’s galleries and exhibits. It’s a great way to take in the work of area artists without breaking the bank. 

The Columbus Zoo is one of the city’s biggest attractions. It features an amazing array of animals, ranging from African lions to reticulated giraffes. Admission is $29.99 for adults ($16.99 if you live in Franklin County) and Free for children under the age of three. 

COSI is an interactive science center popular with adults and kids alike. It features a number of permanent exhibits, as well as lots of rotating events and activities. Admission is $25 for adults, $20 for children 3-17, and seniors 62 and over and the military can receive discounted rates. 

Schiller Park is the perfect spot for outdoor play. Every summer, Schiller Park offers a variety of activities and events for all ages. From family movie nights to outdoor theater performances, to weekend markets, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy here. 

Taco Fest, Red, White, and Boom, and the Dublin Irish Festival are all popular annual events around the city. Taco Fest features tacos from over 25 vendors, Red, White, and Boom is a huge fireworks spectacle at the downtown Scioto River, and the Dublin Irish Festival is an annual celebration of Irish culture. All three are excellent ways to explore and celebrate Columbus’ culture and community.  

Last but not least, don’t forget to sample the local beer, wine, and spirits. Numerous breweries and wineries are located in and around the city, offering tours, tastings, and more. Each one is unique and offers something special to visitors, making it easy to explore the area’s amazing drinking culture.  

There’s no shortage of things to do in Columbus and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for free activities, amazing attractions, or one-of-a-kind festivals, you’re sure to find something fun and exciting in these parts! 

My Catholic faith has always been really important to me, and so when I moved to Columbus for residency it was important for me to a nearby church community. I’m so glad I found St. Christopher Parish in Grandview Heights (1420 Grandview Avenue, Columbus, OH 43212). It’s conveniently located right on Grandview Avenue, less than a 10-minute drive from the OSUWMC campus. There, I found a very welcoming community, with a nice mix of young adults, families with young children, and older adults. They also have convenient mass times. I often went and still go to the 6 pm Sunday mass when I have to work in the hospital on the weekends. They also have a 4:30 pm Saturday mass and a 10 am Sunday mass. I have been going to St. Christopher now for over 10 years and this parish has become an important part of my and my family’s life. It helped me get through the many challenges of residency and beyond. My husband and I went through marriage preparation and Pre-Cana at St. Christopher and the Catholic Diocese of Columbus, then later prepared for our son’s baptism here. Now that we have a young son, I can say how family-friendly this church community is. At 10 am masses, they have the Children’s Liturgy of the Word, where children go for a special children’s reading and a worksheet/craft, then come back to join us for the Liturgy of the Eucharist. During the school year, they also have a program called Family Faith Formation/Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for children in Preschool – Grade 8 directly following the 10 am mass. Here, our son learns about God, Jesus, church etiquette, Bible stories, Saints, and so much about our Catholic faith. My husband and I will usually grab a coffee at one of the local coffee shops nearby, then pick him up and hear about what he learned over lunch. I am so grateful for the dedicated teachers and staff at St. Christopher.  

 

Other Catholic churches that I have been to nearby OSU include: 

• Our Lady of Victory (1559 Roxbury Road, Columbus, OH 43212) 

• St. Francis of Assisi (386 Buttles Avenue, Columbus, OH 43215) 

Written by Sharon Clark, MD, Clinical Associate Professor, Hospitalist, Internal Medicine-Pediatrics. 

As a musician whose primary recreational outlet is playing/recording music in my basement and going out to see shows, I had fairly low expectations when moving to Columbus from Chicago to start residency. Having now lived here for 9 years, I must say that I have been pleasantly surprised. As a city of more than a million people but the layout of college town, Columbus gives you the best of both worlds in many ways. As a big city, nearly all touring bands regardless of the size of their fan base makes stops in Columbus to perform. Even on the uncommon occasion that a tour I’m interested in is not actually coming to Columbus, they will typically stop in either Cleveland or Cincinnati instead, making it an easy trip if it is a show you can’t miss.  However, as a city with a college town feel, there are countless venues and something of a “dispersion” of the fans that results in much less crowded shows than you get in other similarly sized cities. I have been very pleased to see some of my favorite bands performing in MUCH smaller rooms to MUCH smaller crowds than they would have in Chicago. At times, the rooms have even been so sparsely populated that it felt like a private performance and even had the opportunity to interact with the artists afterwards. Of course, the down side of this is that the size and energy of the crowd is often smaller, which definitely affects the energy that the artists bring to their performance as well (they get a little less pumped for the Columbus crowd than LA for example…). The other negative that I have noticed is that the quality of the sound production has been consistently below my expectations across multiple venues and multiple genres of music. Not sure what is going on there but we need to bring in some new sound guys! 

 

Although my clinical schedule and second job as a father of two makes it difficult for me to pop into random venues on a weekend night to see who is playing out, I know that there is also a fairly vibrant local music scene in Columbus. I have personally been out to a few local punk rock and metal shows that were great, but I know that there are offerings from many other genres as well. Probably our most recent notably success story is the group “twenty one pilots” which got its start here. Whatever genre floats your boat, there is something for you here. I recommend downloading the Songkick app and using it to track artists you’re interested in and keep an eye on the Columbus concert calendar. You can also check the 614 magazine which is your source for all things food, art, and entertainment in Columbus. The summer is a great time for music with lots of music festivals, perhaps most notably the “rock on the range” festival which happens in May and fills our city with big name rock and roll artists (and our ERs with lots injuries and intoxications…).  

 

As far as venues, we have several large arenas that capture the big giants – The Schottenstein center, Nationwide arena, Crew stadium. Then there is a large entertainment group called Promowest Productions that runs multiple venues across town including Kemba Live, which is a very popular destination for medium sized touring artists and festivals that has both an indoor and outdoor space. The A&R music bar and The Basement are located on the same site as Kemba and are great spots for seeing smaller bands. There are numerous other “medium sized venues” that are some of my favorite places in town including The Newport, Skully’s, and The King of Clubs.  Then there are a bunch of smaller rooms that are great for a more intimate feel with less well-known artists, like Rumba room, Ace of Cups, Spacebar, and Woodlands tavern. Of course there are also several large theaters for seated performances, classical, and theater including the Ohio Theater, the Palace theater, The Southern Theater, and Lincoln Theater.   

 

In short, I think that Columbus is a great place to live for a music fan. It has everything you need regardless of what you’re into and is much easier to navigate than other similar cities in terms of crowds, parking, traffic, ticket prices and availability, etc. Come here for the hospital, stay for the music scene! 

 

By Gregory Eisinger, Assistant Clinical Professor, Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep 

Columbus is a great place to live for music lovers of all types! The thriving local music scene is beloved by residents and well supported by the city. Local venues are plentiful and host musicians from huge, international acts to small, local bands and singer-songwriters. There are several music festivals throughout the year, including many free festivals and outdoor music series. Independent radio stations, record shops and music collectives can also be found here in Central Ohio. 

The following is not an exhaustive list, but the ones I am most familiar with. Consider checking web sites like Columbus Underground or Experience Columbus for lists of upcoming events! 

Smaller and more intimate venues: 

Ace of Cups 

Rumba Cafe’ 

The Big Room Bar 

The Basement 

Woodland’s Tavern 

A&R Music Bar  

Skully’s Music Diner 

 

Moderate sized venues: 

Newport Music Hall  

The Bluestone 

Express Live/Express Live Outdoors  

Legend Valley  

Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (multiple venues)  

 

Arenas: 

Nationwide Arena   

The Schottenstein Center 

 

Festivals: 

Community Festival (Comfest) 

Wonderbus 

Sonic Temple 

Duck Creek Log Jam 

 

Music Series 

Free Outdoor Concerts 

 

Record shop recs 

Magnolia Thunderpussy Records 

Used Kids Records 

Rich St. Records  (Pop-up only, follow on Instagram for hours)    

 

Radio recs 

CD 92.9 

WCBE 90.5 (local NPR)  

 

 

By Matt Flanigan, Assistant Clinical Professor of General Internal Medicine 

 

Columbus, Ohio, is a city that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, including those who follow a vegan lifestyle. With its ever-growing food scene, Columbus has become a haven for plant-based eaters, offering a variety of vegan-friendly restaurants, cafés, and specialty shops. In this blog, we will explore some of the best vegan dining options in the city and provide tips for finding delicious plant-based meals during your time in Columbus. 

Vegan-Friendly Restaurants 

Columbus is home to several dedicated vegan and vegetarian restaurants that offer a wide range of delicious and satisfying plant-based dishes. Some popular spots to check out include: 

• Portia’s Café: This cozy café in Clintonville offers a diverse menu of organic, vegan, and gluten-free options, including sandwiches, wraps, salads, and smoothies. 
• Seitan’s Realm: A vegan comfort food truck turned brick-and-mortar restaurant, Seitan’s Realm serves up mouthwatering, plant-based versions of classic favorites like burgers, cheesesteaks, and mac ‘n’ cheese. 
• Woodhouse Vegan: This trendy restaurant in the Italian Village offers a rotating seasonal menu of plant-based dishes, from shareable appetizers to satisfying entrees and indulgent desserts. 

Plant-Based Options at Non-Vegan Restaurants 

Many non-vegan restaurants in Columbus also cater the litto plant-based diners by offering vegan options on their menus. Some great places to enjoy vegan meals at mainstream eateries include: 

• Brassica: This Mediterranean-inspired eatery in the Short North offers a variety of plant-based options, such as falafel, roasted vegetables, and hummus, which can be customized into a delicious salad or sandwich. 
• Northstar Café: With several locations throughout the city, Northstar Café offers a selection of vegan-friendly dishes, including the popular Buddha Bowl and Veggie Burger. 
• Melt Bar & Grilled: Known for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches; Melt offers a vegan menu featuring plant-based cheese and protein options, as well as vegan-friendly sides and desserts. 

Vegan-Friendly International Cuisine 

Columbus boasts a diverse culinary landscape, with numerous international restaurants offering vegan-friendly dishes. Some top picks for plant-based international cuisine include: 

• Aangan India Bistro: Located in the Grandview Heights area, Aangan offers a variety of vegan-friendly Indian dishes, including vegetable curries, lentil dishes, and flavorful rice options. 
• Aladdin’s Eatery: With multiple locations in Columbus, Aladdin’s serves up tasty vegan options from the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean culinary traditions, such as tabbouleh, falafel, and lentil soup. 

Vegan Treats and Specialty Shops 

Do not forget to indulge in some plant-based desserts and treats during your time in Columbus. Check out these vegan-friendly sweet spots: 

• Pattycake Bakery: This charming bakery in Clintonville offers a variety of vegan baked goods, including cookies, cupcakes, and custom cakes made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. 
• Bake Me Happy: Located in Merion Village, Bake Me Happy serves up delicious vegan and gluten-free treats, such as donuts, brownies, and cookies. 
• Doughasis (Instagram: doughasis): Offering both gluten-free and vegan options, Doughasis is a must-visit for plant-based dessert lovers, with an impressive selection of cookies, cupcakes, and custom cakes. 

Vegan-Friendly Coffee Shops and Cafes 

Columbus has no shortage of coffee shops and cafes that offer vegan-friendly options, from plant-based milk alternatives to delicious pastries and sandwiches. Be sure to visit some of these popular spots: 

• Fox in the Snow Café: With locations in Italian Village, German Village, and New Albany, this trendy coffee shop offers a variety of vegan baked goods, such as muffins, scones, and cookies, as well as a selection of plant-based milk options for your favorite coffee drinks. 
• Stauf’s Coffee Roasters: A local favorite with several locations throughout the city, Stauf’s not only offers a variety of vegan milk alternatives but also stocks a selection of vegan-friendly snacks and treats. 
• Global Gallery Coffee Shop: Located in Clintonville, Global Gallery is a fair-trade coffee shop that offers a range of vegan pastries, as well as sandwiches, wraps, and salads. 

Vegan Meal Prep and Delivery Services 

For those who prefer to enjoy plant-based meals in the comfort of their own home or workplace, Columbus offers a variety of vegan meal prep and delivery services: 

• The Little Kitchen Plant-Based Food Co: This Columbus-based company offers a weekly menu of plant-based meals available for pickup or delivery, featuring a mix of comfort food classics, healthy bowls, and more. 
• Green Gourmet Meal Prep: Specializing in plant-based meal prep, Green Gourmet offers a rotating menu of vegan dishes available for pickup or delivery, with options ranging from hearty entrees to tasty snacks and desserts. 

 Vegan Events and Meetups 

To connect with fellow plant-based eaters and discover new vegan dining options, consider attending one of Columbus’s vegan events or meetups: 

• Columbus Veg Community: This local meetup group hosts regular events, including potlucks, restaurant outings, and cooking classes, to bring together plant-based eaters and promote veganism in the community. 
• VegFest Columbus: An annual celebration of all things vegan, VegFest Columbus features a variety of vendors, speakers, and cooking demonstrations, highlighting the best of the city’s plant-based food scene. 

Columbus, Ohio, is a fantastic destination for vegan dining, with a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and specialty shops catering to plant-based preferences. Whether you are a long-time vegan, a curious newcomer, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, Columbus offers an abundance of delicious options to satisfy your cravings. As a medical resident or fellow, exploring the city’s vegan food scene is a great way to connect with the community, discover new flavors, and enjoy a healthy, compassionate lifestyle in Ohio’s capital city. 

 

Columbus, Ohio, is a city that boasts a rich and diverse food scene, offering a myriad of gastronomic delights that cater to every palate. Whether you’re a casual food enthusiast or a seasoned epicure, the city’s culinary landscape has something to offer for everyone. In this blog, we’ll explore ten must-visit foodie spots in Columbus, from legendary burgers to local ice cream favorites and vibrant markets. 

The Thurman Café: Home of the Legendary Thurmanator 

A trip to Columbus would be incomplete without a visit to The Thurman Café, a local institution known for its mouthwatering burgers since 1942. The star of their menu is the iconic Thurmanator, a colossal sandwich that has gained national attention for its size and deliciousness. Take on the challenge or enjoy one of their many other delectable burger options in the historic German Village neighborhood. 

North Market: A Culinary Adventure 

North Market, located in the heart of downtown Columbus, is a food lover’s paradise. This public market houses a variety of vendors offering an array of local and international cuisine, fresh produce, artisanal products, and more. From mouthwatering barbecue at Hot Chicken Takeover to authentic Vietnamese fare at Lan Viet Market, North Market is the perfect spot to embark on a culinary adventure. 

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams: A Local Favorite 

Columbus takes pride in its ice cream scene, and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is the epitome of local frozen delights. Known for their unique and innovative flavors, Jeni’s has become a nationwide favorite, with its roots firmly planted in Columbus. From flavors like Brambleberry Crisp to Brown Butter Almond Brittle, there’s always something new and delicious to discover at Jeni’s. 

Katalina’s: The Ultimate Brunch Experience 

Located in the charming Harrison West neighborhood as well as in Clintonville, Katalina’s is a beloved brunch spot that offers a delightful fusion of Latin and Southern cuisine. Known for their famous Pancake Balls and breakfast tacos, Katalina’s is the perfect destination for a leisurely weekend brunch or a hearty weekday breakfast. 

Brassica: A Fresh Take on Mediterranean Fare 

Brassica, situated in the vibrant Short North Arts District, is a popular eatery offering fresh and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and customizable dishes, Brassica is the ideal spot for a healthy and delicious meal. From their signature sandwiches to their abundant salad bowls, Brassica provides a taste of the Mediterranean with a Columbus twist. 

Easton Town Center: A Shopping and Dining Destination 

Easton Town Center is a premier shopping and dining destination in Columbus, offering a wide variety of restaurants and cafés to suit every taste. From upscale dining experiences like Smith & Wollensky and Mitchell’s Ocean Club to casual eateries like Shake Shack and Condado Tacos, Easton Town Center has something for every foodie. 

Fox in the Snow Café: Artisanal Coffee and Baked Goods 

Fox in the Snow Café is a popular Columbus spot for coffee lovers and pastry enthusiasts. This charming, industrial-chic café offers a selection of handcrafted pastries, sandwiches, and specialty coffee drinks in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Don’t miss their famous Egg Sandwich or the delectable Cinnamon Sugar Donut. 

The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro: Fine French Dining 

For an exquisite fine dining experience, The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro is a must-visit. Housed in a historic church, this elegant restaurant offers classic French cuisine with a modern twist. With an extensive wine list and a menu that features dishes like Duck Confit and Seared Scallops, The Refectory is perfect for a special night out. 

Momo Ghar: A Taste of Nepal 

Located inside the Saraga International Grocery store, Momo Ghar offers a unique taste of Nepali and Tibetan cuisine. Renowned for their momos (dumplings), Momo Ghar serves up an array of mouthwatering options, including the popular Jhol Momo, which are steamed dumplings served in a spicy, flavorful broth. This hidden gem is a must-try for foodies seeking an authentic culinary experience. 

Ambrose and Eve: A Modern American Bistro 

Ambrose and Eve is a modern American bistro located in the Brewery District, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere combined with a menu that celebrates the diverse flavors of American cuisine. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring that guests enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients in dishes like Crispy Chicken Thighs or Butternut Squash Agnolotti. 

Columbus, Ohio, is a city that celebrates its diverse culinary scene, offering a range of gastronomic experiences that cater to food lovers of all stripes. From legendary burgers at The Thurman Café to the delightful ice cream concoctions at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, and the vibrant atmosphere of Easton Town Center, Columbus provides an unforgettable food journey for locals and visitors alike. The next time you find yourself in the Buckeye State, be sure to indulge in these culinary gems and discover the flavors that make Columbus a true foodie destination. 

 

One of the things I love about Columbus is how you can go from being downtown to the middle of a tranquil field or forest by driving no more than 15 minutes in any direction. Throughout medical school, residency, and fellowship at Ohio State, I have drawn so much of my wellness through time in nature, specifically our Metro Parks. We have more than 20 Metro Parks here in Central Ohio with free trails and activities accessible all year long.  My advice: Make the map below your checklist and see them all before you graduate from your program! Check out the link to find the park and activity right for you: https://www.metroparks.net/ 

Here are some of my favorites: 

1. Glacier Ridge Metro Park – This is hands down my favorite park. I thought first year of Gastroenterology fellowship would be a great time to start running half marathons (!?) so Glacier Ridge was my training grounds. Not only does it have miles of safe trails, but it also has a horse-back riding trail, dog park and new playground. 
2. Scioto Grove – Despite living in Columbus most of my life, this park was new to me, and I am sure glad I discovered it. Not only can you hike its expansive and picturesque trails (#ForTheInstagram) but you can canoe and even participate in a free archery program sponsored by the Metro Park. It also has a beautiful venue space for retreats or receptions. 
3. Scioto Audobon – This Metro Park is one of the closest to OSUWMC. After work, I have been known to just run south until I make it to Scioto Audobon. It has a beautiful view of the Columbus skyline and is a great place for picnics with family and friends. 
4.  Highbanks – Throughout my training, many of the organizations with which I am involved including Women in Medicine, Humanism in Medicine and our Residency wellness retreats have been hosted here. Highbanks has beautiful trails, equally as fun to hike during the hot summer or snowy winter. There is a Nature Center in the heart of the park where you can learn more about the native wildlife #lifelonglearning 

   To learn more about our Metro Parks or all things Columbus and OSUMWC, email me at antoinette.pusateri@osumc.edu or follow me on Instagram @APNDMD.