10 Best German Village Restaurants (According to Matt)
Quiet and quaint, this area is best known for its 19th-century brick houses that line its beautiful streets, but you would be wise not to sleep on the amazing food scene. For those nearby German Village, Ohio, or who intend to visit, please do not miss all of the fantastic local restaurants.
As its name suggests, it became a place that homed many German immigrants in the mid-19th century. However, the food offerings in the area are far more diverse than just your typical German fare. A variety of historic and new restaurants offer some of the best atmospheres and food in Columbus.
Important side note, even though I live across the street, we have not made it to Cento as of yet. Therefor, it isn’t on my list! Sorry to leave you hanging Cameron.
Please keep in mind this is just my opinion!!! I hope it helps you make your next night out a great one!
10. Sycamore
Recently under new ownership, the Sycamore restaurant is located on the east side of German Village near Schumacher Place. This restaurant keeps it simple, but also has an upscale vibe. Stop by for a cafe/diner experience in the morning and for lunchtime, with more upscale food and cocktail offerings in the evening.
Matt’s Favorite:
I got the Chicken Thighs, and they were fantastic, but the menu seems to rotate frequently, which is great. The cocktails are top notch, and the staff has always been super friendly.
Website:
9. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant
Let me tell you about Schmidt’s – it’s an absolute must-visit in German Village. The story starts with J. Fred Schmidt, who came over from Germany and built this incredible meat-packing empire right here in Ohio. What I love is how they got their start testing out their legendary sausages at the Ohio State Fair before opening the restaurant we all know today. You might’ve even spotted them on “Man V Food,” and trust me, their bottomless sausage plates are no joke! It’s not just a restaurant – it’s a piece of Columbus history that’s been keeping the German Village spirit alive for generations.
Matt’s Favorite:
If you like spicey food, you can’t go wrong with the Bahama Mama. If you like dessert then go with the vanilla cream puff.Website:
8. The Old Mohawk
You’ve got to check out The Old Mohawk – it’s honestly one of my favorite spots in Columbus. This place started as a regular old general store back in 1906, but by 1928 it had transformed into this cool speakeasy, complete with turtles in the basement for their famous soup! While it’s changed hands and names over the years, the quality and character have stayed rock solid. The huge bar and diverse menu (everything from Mexican to classic American dishes) make it perfect whether you’re bringing the family, meeting friends, or grabbing dinner with your date. It’s got this perfect laid-back local vibe that just feels right.
Matt’s favorite:
Embrace the German culture and try their Bratwurst Dinner! They source their bratwurst from Carly’s Brats in Bucyrus, Ohio, home of the Bratwurst festival, for a reason.
Website: http://theoldmohawk.com/
7. Barcelona
I can’t believe it took me so long to try Barcelona! Finally checked it out one random Sunday evening this fall and honestly kicked myself for waiting. The place is incredible – we’ve already been back multiple times since that first visit. It’s quickly become one of my go-to spots.
Website: https://barcelonacolumbus.com/menu/
6. The Thurman Cafe
Another restaurant steeping in history is The Thurman Cafe. Operating since 1942, this restaurant is determined to be your go-to place for burgers. While it has the appearance of a small dive bar, they offer typical bar food favorites as well as their own famous burgers, like the Thurminator (named for Arnold, who loves this place). The staff is is also super fun and likes to joke around. If you are really hungry, this is the place to go as I’ve never left without feeling completely stuffed.
Matt’s Favorite:
The Thurman Burger..duh.Website:
https://thethurmancafe.com/5. Brown Bag Deli
Choosing Brown Bag above Katzingers may be blasphemy for some in the area, but I can’t help it! I’m a fan of the Brown Bag. For those who love to eat outside and enjoy an easy and casual dining experience, then the Brown Bag Deli is for you. As their name might suggest, they are the powerhouse in serving unique and much-beloved sandwiches. Make sure you come hungry, too, as they believe in large portions fit to fill any stomach. Where other delis might skimp out on meat or other ingredients, the Brown Bag Deli makes your sandwich fresh and serves you a heavy and packed sandwich sure to delight your taste buds. This restaurant is perfect for families and people wanting a quick–but filling–bite for lunch.
Matt’s Favorite:
#7 The Village Addiction, rings true to its name for me. Thanksgiving in a sandwhich, enough said.
Website:
https://www.thebrownbaggv.com/menu-14. Club 185
Club 185 holds a special place on my list, as it’s easily one of my favorite places to go in Columbus. Everything about it just works – killer vibe, solid menu, friendly service, great drinks, and prices that are hard to believe. You won’t find a better casual spot, not just in German Village but pretty much anywhere in Columbus. When you want that perfect laid-back hangout with seriously good food, this is your place.
Website:
3. Chapman’s Eat Market
Chapman’s has been absolutely crushing it since taking over the old Max & Erma’s spot (you might remember it as Wonderbar). After that New York Times shoutout a few years ago, getting a reservation for a while became nearly impossible. However, that seems to be changing finally. I’ve managed to eat there a handful of times now, and let me tell you, it lives up to the hype every single visit. The menu’s constantly changing but somehow always has something unique. The bar often has a few spaces open, even when the dining room is full.
Website:
https://www.eatchapmans.com/2. Lindey’s
Let me talk about Lindey’s – it’s honestly THE spot for a special night out in German Village. Their patio is unmatched, and the low-lit, elegant interior is hard to beat in terms of atmosphere . Don’t stress too much about the dress code – you’ll see everything from nice jeans to full dress-up, but it is on the nicer side. Most folks would probably rank this as German Village’s #1 restaurant, and I can see why. It’s just the perfect mix of class and comfort that makes any evening feel special.
Matt’s Favorite:
I get the burger almost every time I go, it is spectacular but I know that isn’t what most would enjoy in a fancier place. If I’m in the mood to splurge I go with the Steak Frites and a Weller on the rocks.Website:
1. Valter’s at the Maennerchor
(Yes, that’s me smiling awkwardly with a giant pint of German beer 😆)
The longer I’ve lived here, the more I’ve grown to appreciate just how good and consistent Valter’s is, and the staff is incredibly friendly.
If you want to scratch that itch for German food, you need to stop at Valters. Originally founded 168 years ago by men who ran a singing and society club, the restaurant came about much later. Extra points for being the best German food in German Village (sorry, Schmidts, but it’s true). Don’t be surprised if the owner stops by the table to make sure you’re being taken care of!
Matt’s Favorite:
Cast Iron Prime Rib, which is truly served on cast iron with sauteed vegetables and fries, never disappoints. Their Jagermeister Wings and Bavarian Pretzel are great starters.
Website: https://valtersatthemaennerchor.com/
Honorable Mention #1 Bendi Wok n Bar
Bendi Wok n Bar is a great place on the North side of the village. The food is spicy though, so we typically stick with the “0” (we are weak). Very consistent and very good Chinese food.
Website:
I Can’t Believe These Didn’t Make it:
There are a lot of great choices in German Village, but they can’t all be top 10! I suppose we will call these the “almost” honorable mentions.
Katzinger’s Delicatessen is excellent, but I feel like it’s not quite the same over the last few years. The sandwiches have been very hit or miss, but the latkes and their desserts always hit the mark.
Pistachio Vera– This place is fantastic, but they don’t have many actual “meal” options, and they no longer offer in-door seating, so it was a bit easier to leave them out of the top 10 “restaurants”. Their croissants and pastries are out of this world. So is the salmon sandwich.
Eat Until You Drop
There are plenty of selections to choose from when considering where to eat your next meal at German Village in Ohio. I hope that my favorites can help you narrow down your next dining option when you’re in the area!
Consider checking out 10 Great Things to do in German Village
