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I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease on my birthday two years ago. Bad timing, I know. I went from a clinic appointment (where I was diagnosed by my Gastroenterologist) to my birthday celebration with family. They had ordered all my favorites from the menu…unfortunately, all of them were also gluten-rich. With two years of gluten-free eating under my belt I’m happy to report this restaurant (Cap City Fine Diner) is still one of my faves as they’re very accommodating. In fact Cameron Mitchell Restaurants offer a ton of variety in their GF menus. Be sure to try out their restaurants and make sure you ask for the GF menu.  

Of course, most restaurants (at least in Columbus) have a GF menu if you ask but today I’m going to highlight some truly Gluten Free restaurants with really great food.  

Breakfast: My very favorite breakfast option is Bake Me Happy. I typically go to the location in Dublin North Market (6750 Longshore Drive, Dublin, 43017) because it is more convenient for my family. Don’t judge me, but my go-to order is a Donut Muffin. Ok – I might get two. It’s basically a cake donut with cinnamon and sugar coated all over it. Super moist. I know, it’s indulgent, sweet, and probably way too many calories for breakfast but it’s totally worth it for this gluten-free-carbohydrate-lover. My kids can’t tell there’s no gluten and either can my super skeptical husband.  

Lunch: Preston’s is a spot that started in The North Market. After a couple of years, they opened a brick and mortar in Clintonville (2973 North High Street, Columbus 43202). Their menu includes pretty typical fare: burgers, fries, fried chicken but the magic is that it’s all GF.  

The chicken is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The burgers are juicy and can include fun toppings like Pastrami. And the biscuits, oh the biscuits. If you’re gluten free and biscuit lover – or if you’re a biscuit lover in general – go to Preston’s. It’s worth the trip.  

Dinner: Greenhouse Canteen is such a unique experience, GF or not. Originally from Australia, Greenhouse Canteen markets themselves as “Sometimes naughty, mostly nice; forever plant based and gluten free”. Having dinner here is an awesome experience and I can’t recommend it enough. The Arancini Balls, Chickpea Fettuccine and Jackfruit Enchiladas are some of my favorites but I’m sure the rest of the menu is delectable as well (remember, I don’t venture out of my routine very often). 

Dessert: If I’m invited to a potluck or asked to bring something to a party, dessert is my favorite. Especially now that I’ve found Bake Me Happy. I know what you’re thinking – you already talked about that place! But listen, it’s that good. And it deserves attention for both breakfast and dessert, I promise.  

Some backstory on my personality – I am the kind of person who eats mostly the same foods, I’m not very adventurous. When I find my favorite ice cream, I don’t try other flavors, I just eat the same one on repeat. I typically order the same menu item from restaurants religiously. I am here to tell you that I am not a blondie fan. They’re dry, they’re dull, they lack flavor and I’d take a brownie over a blondie any day of the week. Except when I’m at Bake Me Happy. The blondie at BMH is phenomenal. Dare I say, the best blondie I’ve ever had. It’s an awesome combination of salty and sweet. My mouth is watering just writing about it.  

Another fun fact about me – I don’t typically like cream-fillings. No cream puffs, no whipped cream, no marshmallow fluff. I know I sound very dull, but I just don’t like that creamy texture in my desserts. The only exception to my no-cream-filling rule is the Oatmeal Cream Cloud from BMH. It’s what dreams are made of – the name couldn’t be more appropriate.  

   Written by Emily McCartney, Ohio State Fellowship Program Manager for the Department of Internal Medicine.  

Here’s the third post from anonymously surveying our faculty, staff, and trainees: What are their favorite fancy and casual restaurants in Columbus?

Columbus has a great network of bicycle trails within the city and extending far into the countryside. Over the 10-15 years I’ve lived in Columbus, I’ve had the opportunity to explore most of these at one time or another and will share some of my favorite aspects here.  

  

The Olentangy Trail connects OSU Campus to several neighborhoods.  

As the OSU hospital campus has expanded, it has somewhat started to merge with the bicycle trail along the Olentangy river. Now, if you live in Harrison West, Grandview, Clintonville, or Worthington, you can hop on the trail anywhere along its length and be transported traffic-free to the office. I’ve ridden the trail at nearly all hours of the day and night (thanks to home call as a GI fellow/faculty) and in nearly all weather conditions (see nighttime snow photo). Thanks to this trail and some investments in all-weather gear, I only have to drive to campus a few times per year.  

   The Olentangy Trail connects Columbus to Cincinnati and to Cleveland: Ohio Bike Route 1.  

There are a few more caveats with this one – the major being that Cincinnati is 110 miles away and Cleveland is 180-ish miles away. I’ve ridden Columbus-Cincinnati-Columbus in one day (220 miles) and can report that it is nearly 100% traffic-free trails the whole way (depending on where you stop in Cincinnati). I haven’t made it all the way to Cleveland yet, but I have ridden Columbus-Akron (140 miles) and can report that it is about 70% trails. There are plans to make bike paths for the remaining portion, but I’m not sure how feasible that really is since it traverses pretty hilly Amish country and I imagine people like their family farms just the way they are.   

Since I’ve ridden from Cincinnati to Akron, I can tell you the best parts of Ohio Bike Route 1.   

Favorite ride: I recommend starting in Galena, Ohio or Centerburg, Ohio and riding to the Bridge of Dreams in Brinkhaven, Ohio. Starting from Galena, this will be about 90 miles round trip, and is maybe 60 miles round trip if you start from Centerburg. The part of the trail around Gambier, Ohio is probably the finest stretch of paved trail in Ohio. The bonus is that Gambier has a nice trailside water fountain and bathroom, and you can go off the trail to see the little college town and market/grocery there. If you continue past the Bridge of Dreams, there are a couple of gradual hills before you run out of trail in Glenmont.  

Next favorite ride: Between Killbuck and Fredericksburg, Ohio you will see the heart of Ohio Amish Country from the Holmes County Trail. Along this trail I guarantee multiple sightings of horses and buggies (so watch out for… debris… in the trail).   

Gravel ride: The bike trail from Zoarville, Ohio up to Independence, Ohio is mostly crushed limestone. The portions closer to Akron are more traveled and so are smooth and flat. The portion down by Zoar and Zoarville is a little rougher but can be quite scenic if you have wider tires. I’ve done it on 25mm tires and on 42mm tires and would recommend the wider ones unless you are familiar with the term “underbiking” and enjoy this.  

  The Ohio Gravel Grinders website is a great resource for all regional gravel routes.  

If you are into gravel, check out their website. I recommend starting with the Homer gravel route (30 miles) – the last stretch along Butchers Road is a slight downhill winding along a little creek with some fairly smooth gravel *chef’s kiss* and is one of my favorite stretches of “road” in Ohio. Once you build up to it, you can check out some of their other routes. The “Mohican Monster 97” has been on my do list for a few years – I’ve done about 60 miles of it and was completely thrashed afterwards. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.  

 

Useful websites:  

https://new.columbus.gov/Community/Department-of-Neighborhoods/Healthy-Places/Bike-Maps

Ohio to Erie Trail Interactive Maps

Ohio Gravel Grinders 

 

About me:  

I came to Columbus for medical school, stayed here for an internal medicine residency, then a GI fellowship, then a pancreas research fellowship and now am junior faculty in the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition. It is probably safe to describe me as a cyclist. I’ve heard several definitions of a cyclist and my favorite is: If you have a one-piece spandex suite designed for bicycling, then you are a cyclist. I ride about 5,000 miles each year, about 2,000 of those are on my indoor trainer, about 2,000 of those are solo outdoors, and about 1,000 of those are on my tandem with my wife (including Pelotonia).  

Here’s the second question after we anonymously surveyed our faculty, staff, and trainees: What do you like about working at OSU?

We anonymously surveyed our faculty, staff, and trainees and are going to have a series of posts with their answers to a variety of questions. Here’s the first one: What surprised them most about the city of Columbus?

Columbus, Ohio, is a city that is full of surprises, offering a diverse array of attractions, events, and history that makes it a truly unique destination. In this blog, we will explore five fascinating aspects of Columbus, from its connection to the term “Buckeye” to a delightful event involving racing dachshunds. Join us as we uncover the hidden gems that make Columbus a place to remember. 

The Arnold Sports Festival: A Showcase of Athletic Prowess 

Each year, Columbus plays host to the Arnold Sports Festival, a prestigious fitness expo and multi-sport event founded by none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jim Lorimer. This action-packed event attracts thousands of athletes from around the world, making it one of the largest and most respected fitness expos in the United States. With a diverse range of competitions, including bodybuilding, powerlifting, and martial arts, the Arnold Sports Festival is a must-see spectacle for sports enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. 

Unraveling the Mystery of the Buckeye 

Have you ever wondered why Ohioans are affectionately known as “Buckeyes”? This nickname stems from the buckeye tree, which is native to the region and produces nuts that resemble a deer’s eye. The term “Buckeye” has become so ingrained in Ohio culture that Ohio State University’s sports teams have adopted it as their moniker. Therefore, the next time you hear someone mention the Buckeyes, you will know the charming history behind the name! 

Birthplace of Wendy’s: A Fast-Food Legacy 

Columbus is proud to be the birthplace of Wendy’s, the popular fast-food chain that has become a staple in American cuisine. Founded by Dave Thomas in 1969, the very first Wendy’s restaurant still stands on East Broad Street, serving up the classic burgers and fries that have made it a household name. A visit to Columbus would not be complete without stopping by the original Wendy’s to savor a piece of fast-food history. 

The Topiary Park: A Living Masterpiece 

Nestled in the heart of Columbus, the Topiary Park is a one-of-a-kind attraction that brings art to life. This enchanting park features 54 life-sized topiary sculptures crafted from yew trees, depicting the characters from Georges Seurat’s famous painting, “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jette.” Topiary Park offers a truly unique experience, inviting visitors to step into a living, breathing work of art. 

Running of the Wieners: A Delightful Display of Dachshund Dexterity 

If you are looking for a light-hearted and unforgettable event, look no further than Columbus’s annual Running of the Wieners. This charming race features dachshunds, also known as wiener dogs, dashing towards the finish line in a friendly competition. The dogs often wear whimsical costumes, adding an extra touch of amusement to the event. The Running of the Wieners is a delightful experience for dog lovers and anyone seeking a dose of pure joy. 

The Thurmanator: A Culinary Challenge at The Thurman Cafe 

No visit to Columbus is complete without a stop at The Thurman Cafe, a local institution that has been serving up mouthwatering burgers since 1942. The star of their menu is the legendary Thurmanator, a towering sandwich that has gained national attention for its size and deliciousness. 

The Thurmanator consists of two 12-ounce beef patties, ham, bacon, American and Swiss cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, banana peppers, and mayonnaise, all piled high on a toasted bun. This massive sandwich has been featured on numerous TV shows, including “Man v. Food,” and has become a rite of passage for food lovers visiting Columbus. 

If you are up for the challenge, head to The Thurman Cafe in the historic German Village neighborhood and test your appetite with this colossal creation. Whether you conquer the Thurmanator or simply enjoy one of their other delicious menu items, a visit to The Thurman Cafe is sure to leave you with a memorable dining experience. 

Columbus, Ohio, is a city that defies expectations, offering a wealth of hidden treasures and unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike. From the athletic spectacle of the Arnold Sports Festival to the whimsy of the Running of the Wieners, Columbus provides a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment that makes it a truly special destination. So, the next time you find yourself in the Buckeye State, be sure to explore these fascinating aspects of Columbus and discover the charm that lies within its borders. 

Written by Blake Boyd 

 

Call me a nerd if you like, but I enjoy museums. Children’s museums. Art museums. Science museums. I like to see what creative expression looks like out in the real world. When I had kids, I thought my museum days were over. All I could hear was the ‘mom voice’ in my head saying, “Don’t touch that!”, “Please be careful”, “Look with your eyes, please”. The anxiety was real. Also, the cost of visiting a museum sometimes can be prohibitive, especially when you’re paying full price for a kiddo. Fortunately, two awesome museums in Columbus offer free admission several times a year. Allow me to share with you….  

The Columbus Museum of Art is located downtown Columbus, near the Columbus College of Art and Design and Columbus State Community College. It has rotating exhibits throughout the year, some more family-friendly than others. However, they always have a kid section to explore, specifically called The Wonder Room. It’s a room set-up for kids to touch, climb and play with all kinds of art installations. The last time my family went, they had a mirrored glass feature (pictured below) that my kids particularly enjoyed as well as a Lego display (more to come on this later) and a build-your-own artifact station. There are typically child-loving helpers located throughout the exhibits too – so your kids can explore with or without direction from an adult. 

The Lego exhibit. OMG. It was incredible. The installation included a “Block O”, a graphic of Archie Griffin tackling a University of Michigan player, and a village complete with different seasons. I could’ve spent the entire afternoon just looking at the village! My entire family loved looking at the intricate details and playing “I Spy”.   

“Get to the money saving part!” I hear you. The Columbus Museum of Art is free to veteran and active military and their families AND every Sunday, it is FREE to anyone! Needless to say, my family typically goes on Sundays (open from 10AM – 5PM) and it truly is an awesome change of pace.  

 Next up is the Franklin Park Conservatory. Franklin Park offers several really cool experiences throughout the year – Blooms and Butterflies and Chihuly Nights are two of my all-time favorites. At Blooms and Butterflies, you enter a greenhouse that is filled with plants and you notice thousands of butterflies flying around. You can catch them on your nose or finger, you can pet them as they pose for you on a rock. It’s extremely cool to get to engage with butterflies in this very unique way (It’s hard to even see the butterfly in this photo).  

FPC has a close relationship with Dale Chihuly (famous glass artist) and you’ll see Chihuly work throughout the property. In fact, FPC has the largest private collection in a botanical garden 😊 – 18 to be exact – I bet you can’t find them all!  

Lastly, for all the readers with children, during the spring and summer, they offer a Children’s Garden with lots of sensory activities, water exploration and free play. It’s awesome!  

And on the first Sunday of each month, admission is free to anyone who lives in Columbus or Franklin County (with ID) – they call these Community Days. More information about their seasonal exhibits are available on their website.  ng and summer, they offer a Children’s Garden with lots of sensory activities, water exploration and free play. It’s awesome!  

Columbus, Ohio, is a dynamic and thriving city that offers a diverse array of attractions and activities for residents, fellows, and visitors alike. From world-class museums and cultural institutions to vibrant neighborhoods and lush green spaces, Columbus has something for everyone. In this blog, we’ll guide you through some of the top things to do in Columbus, giving you a taste of the city’s unique offerings and helping you make the most of your time in Ohio’s capital. 

Columbus boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues to explore. Some must-visit cultural institutions include: 

• Columbus Museum of Art: This impressive museum features a diverse collection of American and European art, as well as temporary exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists and movements. 
• Wexner Center for the Arts: Located on the Ohio State University campus, the Wexner Center offers a mix of visual, performing, and media arts, with a focus on contemporary and innovative works. 
• Ohio Theatre: This beautifully restored historic venue hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. 

Columbus is home to several distinct neighborhoods, each offering unique shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Some popular neighborhoods to check out include: 

• Short North Arts District: Known for its eclectic mix of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, the Short North is a lively and creative hub in the heart of Columbus. 
• German Village: This historic neighborhood features charming brick streets, beautifully restored homes, and a variety of cozy eateries and shops. 
• Arena District: Located near Nationwide Arena, this bustling district offers a mix of sports, entertainment, dining, and nightlife options.  

Columbus offers plenty of opportunities to connect with nature, thanks to its numerous parks and green spaces. Some popular outdoor destinations include: 

• Scioto Mile: This picturesque riverfront park features walking and biking trails, lush gardens, and stunning views of the city skyline. 
• Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens, exotic plants, and art installations at this popular attraction, which also hosts special events and exhibitions throughout the year. 
• Highbanks Metro Park: Escape the city and enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and scenic views in this sprawling nature reserve.  

Columbus is home to several fascinating museums and institutions dedicated to science and history. Some must-see attractions include: 

• Center of Science and Industry (COSI): This interactive science center offers hands-on exhibits and exciting demonstrations that engage visitors of all ages in the wonders of science and technology. 
• Ohio History Center: Dive into Ohio’s rich history at this expansive museum, which features exhibits on Native American culture, the Civil War, and more. 

Columbus boasts a thriving food scene, with a diverse array of restaurants, cafés, and bars to explore. From farm-to-table eateries and ethnic cuisine to food trucks and craft breweries, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss the North Market, a historic public market that features a mix of local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods. Check out more information about our food scene here.

Columbus is a sports lover’s paradise, with a variety of professional and collegiate teams to cheer on. Catch a game and join the excitement at one of these popular sporting events: 

• Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL): Watch the city’s professional ice hockey team in action at the Nationwide Arena. 
• Columbus Crew (MLS): Experience the energy and passion of Major League Soccer at the state-of-the-art Lower.com Field. 
• Ohio State Buckeyes: Show your support for the Ohio State University’s athletic teams, including football, basketball, and more, as they compete in various NCAA Division I sports. 
• Columbus Clippers (MiLB): Become a Minor League Baseball fan with the Clippers. They play at Huntington Park, which has been named the best Minor League Ballpark in the country three times by Ballpark Digest.

Columbus’ thriving live music scene offers a range of options for catching performances by local, national, and international artists. From intimate clubs and bars to large concert venues, there’s always something happening in the city: 

• KEMBA Live!: This indoor/outdoor concert venue hosts a variety of acts across different genres, providing a fantastic setting for live music events. 
• Newport Music Hall: Often referred to as “America’s Longest Continually Running Rock Club,” this historic venue features an eclectic mix of artists and genres. 
• Natalie’s Grandview – Live Music & Kitchen: Enjoy great food and live music in an intimate setting at this popular Columbus restaurant and music venue. 

Columbus offers plenty of options for relaxation and self-care, with numerous spas, yoga studios, and wellness centers available throughout the city. Take a break from your busy schedule and treat yourself to a rejuvenating experience at one of these wellness-focused establishments: 

• The Spa at River Ridge: Indulge in a luxurious spa day with a range of treatments, from massages and facials to body wraps and nail services. 
• Yoga on High: Join a yoga class or workshop at this inclusive and welcoming studio, offering a variety of styles and levels to suit all practitioners. 
• Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find tranquility among the lush gardens, art installations, and seasonal exhibits at this popular attraction. 

Columbus, Ohio, is a vibrant and diverse city that offers a wealth of attractions and activities for residents, fellows, and visitors. With its rich arts and culture scene, bustling neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and thriving culinary landscape, Columbus provides countless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Whether you are a long-time resident or just passing through, make sure to take the time to experience all that this dynamic city has to offer.