Regardless of one’s dining pursuits, Columbus, Georgia, offers some of the ultimate places to eat
COLUMBUS, GEORGIA–MARCH 2025––Whatever the hankering, dining in Columbus, Ga., offers tasty, award-winning (and award-deserving) options from Southern to trendy to upscale. Centrally-located in west-central Georgia and 90 minutes from Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, it’s an easy drive from anywhere in the Southeast to some memorable eats.
As diners in Columbus taste their way through the city, they’re sure to find their personal favorites, such as Ruth Ann’s red-velvet pancake, an Explore Georgia’s “100 Plates Locals Love” honoree and Minnie’s Uptown, voted as one of the “Best Restaurants in Georgia” for their chicken and dumplings by USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice awards. Twice EPIC has been named a Four Diamond AAA Restaurant–the only one in Georgia outside of Atlanta. For a rundown of top, fun, or unique dining in Columbus, keep reading.
Southern
Often visitors to Columbus, Ga., are looking for authentic Southern experiences, including that perfect Southern meal. Columbus provides a plethora of options to try and reasons to return again and again:
Minnie’s Uptown Restaurant (104 8th Street) is known for their delicious meat and three options for lunch but their recent 10Best honor proves they’re worth a visit. Minnie’s is open 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Sunday through Friday.
Plucked Up Chicken and Biscuits (1208 1st Avenue) is the creation of local eatery icon Mark Jones. Think perfectly fried chicken and fluffy, golden-brown biscuits and all the different dishes that are possible, and you have Plucked Up. Its casual atmosphere is within a brick-exposed venue with “memorable” décor. Hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Smoke Bourbon and Barbecue (1047 Broadway) This casual spot showcases the only rooftop patio on Broadway and is known for creative barbecue and Southern fare, such as mouth-watering favorites: pimento cheese wontons, brisket tacos topped with pineapple cilantro slaw and pickled onions, brisket gnocchi and the crowd favorite–the Pig Mac, a pulled pork sandwich topped with homemade mac-n-cheese, house-made sauce all on a toasted brioche bun. And, every Friday and Saturday there is “Up in Smoke” with live music followed by a DJ. Smoke is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday and Wednesday (Closed Tuesday); 11 a.m. to 10 pm., Thursday, Friday and Saturday; and, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday.
Country’s on Broad (1329 Broadway) is a locally-based restaurant started in 1975 and now has three locations in Columbus, including one in Uptown Columbus. This location is uniquely situated in a building with shiny, stainless steel interior decor that was a former Greyhound bus station built in the 1930s with a free juke box playing music selected by customers–including a vintage bus attached to the building and available for dining. Country’s is a popular destination for barbecue, ribs and more. And probably the best lemon meringue pie in Columbus, Ga., and beyond…and definitely the tallest. Open 11 a.m. to 10 pm. daily.
Ruth Ann’s Restaurant (941 Veterans Parkway) Originally built in 1959, this iconic eatery may serve the best breakfast in Columbus, Ga. It is a “must visit” Columbus restaurant with a no-frills homey atmosphere. Ruth Ann’s famous delicious Southern home-style breakfast and lunch dishes are served all day–coffee, espresso and cappuccino, too. Want something unique for breakfast? Try the Capt’n Crunch French Toast! Ruth Ann’s is open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Trendy
The Black Cow (115 12th Street) is a homey destination for fried green tomatoes and other Southern-inspired comfort food plus cocktails. The burgers are especially good with a shout out for a “Best Burger in Georgia” by readers of Garden & Gun magazine. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday.
The Loft (1032 Broadway) For more than 25 years, Downstairs at The Loft has been a place dedicated to great food, fun and quality entertainment. Offering a variety of casual American fare options, it serves lunch and dinner and amazing desserts such as its brag-worthy cheesecake. Upstairs in the lounge, known as The Loft, guests enjoy music and comedy acts (check the website for the schedule). Dinner is served 5 to 10 p.m., Tuesday to Thursday and 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday.
Saltcellar (1035 1st Avenue) Just across the street from the historic State Theatre of Georgia, the Springer Opera House, the owner/operators of well-known establishments The Loft and Mabellas have added Saltceller to their Columbus, Ga., restaurant portfolio. Saltcellar delivers a variety of clean, fresh and bold flavors. It is open 5 to 10 p.m., Tuesday to Thursday and 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. It is a great pre- or post-show stop, or anytime, for applause-worthy dining.
11th and Bay (1050 Bay Avenue) Whether dining indoors, at the bar, or al fresco with a great sunset view, the team at 11th and Bay are inspired by Southern hospitality and fresh creative Southern cuisine. Quality products from our local area are sourced from farmers and purveyors to create the seasonally-driven menu. 11th and Bay is one of the best restaurants in Columbus, Ga., and just steps from the Chattahoochee River. It is open 5 to 9 p.m., Tuesday to Thursday; 5 to 9:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday.
The Cannon Brewpub (1041 Broadway) A microbrewery, before anyone knew what a microbrewery was, The Cannon Brewpub is also known for its wood-fired pizza and a variety of burgers. Its brick-lined pub setting gives it a unique old-world charm right in the heart of Uptown Columbus. Its hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday to Saturday; 12 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday.
Jarfly (1358 13th Street) Located in Midtown, Jarfly is a fun place offering great food that everyone can feel comfortable and enjoy great food whether it is a family, business luncheon, or late-night affair. Roll-up doors, bike racks, and pet-friendly exterior seating make it a go-to location to relax and enjoy. Named after the loud, buzzing Southern cicadas, there is definitely a buzz around town about Jarfly, which is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday to Saturday.
Trevioli Italian Kitchen at the Rapids (1329 Front Ave Suite A) Defining itself as an artisan pasta company, Chef Trevor’s philosophy is “to create dining excellence through unequivocal passion, humility, and class.” While his wife Brandi arrives early daily to roll the pasta, Chef Trevor spends the evenings cooking custom dishes from scratch that evolve into his seasonal menus. Trevioli is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday for lunch, 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Tuesday to Thursday, 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. There is a second location at 7466 Blackmon Road.
Wicked Hen (1350 13th Street) Chef Bryant Walker, a Columbus native, transforms the essence of his New South Cuisine with the Wicked Hen Restaurant and Lounge in Midtown. Featuring modern technique and fresh, natural regional fare, the kitchen recreates the bounty of the surrounding area and redefines traditional Southern cooking. It is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday; 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Monday to Friday; and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday.
Charred Oak Kitchen + Bar (3501 Massee Lane Suite G) is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday to Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for brunch Sunday. This casual upscale restaurant combines the rich, smoky flavors of bourbon with a thoughtfully crafted menu, offering guests a distinctive dining experience. Known for its expertly prepared dishes and handcrafted cocktails, Charred Oak provides a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
Eighteen85 Rooftop Bar + Kitchen (21 West 14th Street), located atop Hotel Indigo Columbus at Riverfront Place, is open 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 12 p.m. to midnight Friday to Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. This rooftop venue offers locally inspired crafted cocktails and small plates, with stunning views of the Chattahoochee River facing west—making sunset a perfect time to visit and appreciate this unique vantage point. Guests can enjoy refined Southern cuisine with a modern twist, creating a standout culinary destination in Columbus. The hotel also features the Denim & Oak Riverfront Restaurant.
Upscale
Epic Restaurant (1201 Front Avenue, Suite E) Chef Jamie Keating has wowed Columbus with this Epic concept, which features “elevated American cuisine in a white tablecloth setting.” Having earned the AAA Four Diamond Award- the only Georgia honoree outside of Atlanta, the 2017 Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator Magazine, and being named by Gayot.com a 2016 Top 40 Fine-Dining Eateries in the United States, the only one in Georgia and ranked 10th on the list, Epic is a popular special-occasion restaurant in Columbus, Ga. Reservations are recommended. Epic is open 4:30 p.m. to close, Tuesday to Saturday (Pre-Fixe Menu 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.). Dress code: business casual.
Mabella Italian Steakhouse (14 W 11th Street) The restaurant describes itself as a “quaint trattoria” which translates to “an Italian restaurant serving simple food.” If “simple” means “delicious,” they are a definitely “trattoria.” The historic building was a telephone switch in the 1800s, hence its name. Chef Tom Jones works to fuse the history of Columbus into his wonderful menu options. Hours are 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Thursday; and, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday. A second location with the same hours is at 6835 Midland Commons Blvd., Suite E.
Stock Market Dueling Kitchens (1232 Broadway) is a unique dining destination combining a steakhouse and seafood restaurant, reflected in its name–“stock” from stockyard and “market” from seafood market. Led by Chef Bryant Walker, this innovative venture offers creative dishes that showcase the best of both worlds. Stock Market is Chef Walker’s second restaurant, following the success of Wicked Hen. The Stock Market is open 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Sunday Brunch and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. for dinner.
Morten’s at Old Town (3580 Massee Ln, Suite H) is a culinary destination in Columbus, Georgia, offering a fusion of European and American flavors. Chef Morten Wulff emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, crafting an ever-evolving menu that reflects his current inspirations. Diners can expect dishes made from scratch, showcasing the chef’s creativity and commitment to quality. Hours are 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Saturday.
Coffee Houses
Iron Bank Coffee Co. (6 West Eleventh Street) is an independent and locally owned company located in the unique old Iron Bank Building in the historic district of Uptown Columbus. In addition to coffee, lattes, and espressos, they serve teas, smoothies, beer, and wine. Food offerings include breakfast items, sandwiches, sweets, and salads with homemade dressings. It is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday to Thursday; 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday and Saturday; and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday.
Fountain City Coffee (1007 Broadway) Established in 2003, Fountain City Coffee has been roasting beans and serving the Columbus since their inception. They consider everyone involved–from bakers and baristas to regular costumers–as part of the family. They pride themselves on their deeply flavorful roasts and their commitment to using high-quality, ethically sourced beans. Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday; 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.
Midtown Coffee House (1342 13th Street) With a tagline “everything we do is fresh,” it is pretty sure to be good. Featuring premium coffee, homemade soups and sandwiches, Midtown Coffee believes in great service and good value with a simple feel yet sophisticated flavor. And, for those who don’t have time to get out of their car, there is a quaint Coffee Camper for drive-through coffee adjacent to the restaurant. It is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Wednesday; 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday; 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday; 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday; and, closed on Sunday.
Classic
The Animal Farm (105 12th Street) is a neighborhood restaurant offering a menu that emphasizes locally sourced produce and meats. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes, including rockin’ sandwiches, in a welcoming atmosphere. Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday Brunch. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Cerrone’s Brick Oven Pizzeria (7830 Veterans Parkway, Suite G) Named the “2019 Best in the Southeast” at the biggest pizza competition in the United States–the International Pizza Challenge–in Las Vegas, Cerrone’s is a surprise place to find some great pie. Locally owned and operated, they have the only true-to-region, authentic New York woodfire, brick oven pizza in Columbus. All of their items are prepared by hand daily from the freshest imported Italian and domestic ingredients available. They offer a wide selection of craft beers and wine from the state of Georgia. Hours may change based on the availability of pizza dough. The kitchen is open from 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Speakeasy (3123 Mercury Drive) A Columbus institution since 1976, offering dining, a game room, and a bar, Speakeasy is appealing to all ages. Its menu features the signature Camel Rider sandwich, original Speakeasy pizzas and specialty desserts including Nutcracker Pie and Drowned Brownie. They are open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday to Thursday; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Parker’s Pantry at the Park (1815 Garrard Street) With a passion for feeding people good, quality food, Parker Mullins started a catering business that grew into Parker’s Pantry which features the tagline “Love People. Feed them Good Food” across her menus. Serving freshly made soups, salads, sandwiches, and sweets, don’t be surprised if a menu item is sold out for the day. It is open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday.
Tommy G’s (6835 Midland Commons Blvd, Suite P) is a fast-casual restaurant offering New York-style pizza, wings, and burgers. Sister restaurant to other local favorites like Salt Cellar, The Mix Market, The Loft, and Mabella’s, Tommy G’s provides a laid-back atmosphere for guests to enjoy classic dishes with a 40+ tap craft beer self-serve wall. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and close on Sunday.
Donuts
Golden Donut (625 Manchester Expressway) is a locally owned donut shop. Whether you want to dine-in or drive-through, Golden Donuts serves up hot, fresh donuts. They are open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Drive-Thru only 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.), Monday to Saturday; 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sundays. A second location is at 2033 Wynnton Road and is open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Drive-Thru only 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.) Monday to Saturday; 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Veri Best Donut Company (1115 Broadway) is a cherished local establishment in Columbus, Georgia, serving freshly made donuts since 1954. Known for their classic recipes and warm, welcoming atmosphere, they offer a variety of donuts crafted with love and tradition. Hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, and 4 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. on Sunday. The shop is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Columbus’s Best Donuts (1807 Wynnton Road) is a local bakery specializing in crafting a variety of freshly made donuts. With a focus on quality ingredients and traditional recipes, this establishment offers a selection of classic and unique flavors to satisfy any donut lover’s cravings. Hours are 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Surprises
My Boulánge (111 12th Street, #101) is open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday. This French bakery is a delightful locale and one of the best places in Columbus, Ga., for breakfast, lunch or a sweet treat, such as a handmade macaron. There are not too many places to eat in Columbus where one can enjoy a fresh croissant, croque madame, croque monsieur or croque salmon. And it is a great spot for coffee or espresso to kickstart a day.
Nonic Restaurant & Rooftop Bar (207 13th Street) is probably the only place in Columbus, Ga., calling itself a “gastropub.” While the word on the street is Nonic has the best craft cocktails in Columbus and it has more than 30 rotating taps featuring flights and multiple pour sizes, the food is equally notable. Its rooftop bar is a destination itself. Nonic’s kitchen is open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday; 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday; and 5 p.m. to Midnight, Friday and Saturday.
The Food Mill (3718 2nd Avenue, Suite A) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating food insecurities in Columbus, Ga. They operate a café and market offering a variety of nutritious and affordable food options with a focus on locally sourced items. The Food Mill also provides programs such as nutritional education, cooking classes and culinary training to promote community well-being. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Chili Thai (19 W 10th Street) Locals brag about Chili Thai being one of the best Asian restaurants in Columbus, Ga. They serve curries, noodle dishes and other familiar Thai fare served in a casual, brick-walled establishment. Chili Thai is open for lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday. It is open for dinner from 5 to 9:30 p.m., Monday to Friday; and 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Saturday.
Bytes and Brews (117 12th Street) is Columbus, Ga.’s first retro arcade bar, offering a nostalgic gaming experience alongside craft beers and delicious bites. Guests can enjoy a variety of classic arcade games, pinball machines, and console stations, all while savoring a diverse menu of food and beverages. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday. On Friday and Saturday, adult-only hours are from 8:30 p.m. to midnight.
The Mix Market (1040 Broadway) is a vibrant bar and restaurant in downtown Columbus, offering a diverse menu that includes Neapolitan pizzas, sandwiches, and fusion dishes. Featuring a unique self-serve bar, guests can enjoy a wide selection of seasonal snacks and beverages, all while customizing their drink experience. With televisions throughout, it’s also the perfect spot for sports enthusiasts to catch their favorite games. The Mix Market is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
With so many great options, varieties, and styles of dining, there are a great number of reasons to visit and try all the best restaurants in Columbus, Ga.
For When You Dine in Columbus, Ga.:
Make time for Market Days on Broadway every Saturday morning April through November, which features more than 200 local vendors selling homemade and homegrown products, including local and organic produce, home goods, jewelry, crafts and yummy baked goods.
If you visit Ruth Ann’s Restaurant, try the Streak-o-lean, you can’t get much more Southern than that. Or, a Columbus tradition, the Scrambled Dog (you’ll just have to see it for yourself) Dinglewoods (1939 Wynnton Road), an authentic, old-fashioned pharmacy soda-shop experience. For the most amazing, best cheesecake maybe anywhere, go to The Loft, Saltcellar or Mabellas (as sister restaurants they serve the same cheesecake). Yum!
Highside Market (211 13th Street) is a dynamic mixed-use development in Columbus, offering a diverse range of dining options alongside shopping, wellness, and event spaces. The market features a variety of eateries, including Nonic (mentioned previously), a contemporary restaurant and rooftop bar offering a diverse menu and craft cocktails; Parlor Doughnuts, a bakery specializing in gourmet doughnuts with unique flavors; Whit’s Frozen Custard, serving rich and creamy frozen custard; It’s Tamale Time, offering a variety of tamales and Mexican-inspired dishes; Flying Biscuit, known for its Southern-inspired breakfast and brunch; and more. Highside Market serves as a community hub, providing dining options, entertainment, shopping experiences, and wellness services in a modern, welcoming environment.