The best bars & nightlife in Columbus

14 bars & nightlife we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Nightlife · 14 places · showing the latest additions first

Relaxed restaurant offering chicken wings, burgers, and Philly cheese steaks, plus fried rice.

2424 Woodruff Farm Rd Ste 3

Relaxed restaurant offering chicken wings, burgers, and Philly cheese steaks, plus fried rice.

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Whether you're talking kickoff, tipoff or just hungry o'clock, The Office Sports Bar & Grill keeps it simple with American favorites, a…

2979 N Lake Pkwy #800 · ✓ checked Sep 3

Whether you're talking kickoff, tipoff or just hungry o'clock, The Office Sports Bar & Grill keeps it simple with American favorites, a legit Sunday brunch and solid cocktails in a brick-walled space that feels like a second living room for Phenix City folks.

From the Phenix City newsletter, September 10, 2026

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Players Restaurant & Billiards is the local hangout when you want serious table time and not so serious vibes. Thirty pool tables, darts,…

1500 54th St

Players Restaurant & Billiards is the local hangout when you want serious table time and not so serious vibes. Thirty pool tables, darts, arcade games, and a legit indoor golf simulator keep the crew busy, while the full restaurant and bar handle fuel and victory celebrations. 21+ only.

From the Columbus newsletter, September 17, 2026

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Chain for gourmet burgers & other American comfort fare.

5550 Whittlesey Blvd #3

Chain for gourmet burgers & other American comfort fare.

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Spices Caribbean Restaurant & Bar keeps it laid back and flavorful with cocktails and a menu that hits the classics: oxtail, jerk chicken,…

4022 University Ave

Spices Caribbean Restaurant & Bar keeps it laid back and flavorful with cocktails and a menu that hits the classics: oxtail, jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, Jamaican patties, maybe some callaloo if you’re feeling adventurous. Perfect for a midweek reset with real deal Caribbean comfort.

From the Columbus newsletter, September 8, 2026

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The Endzone

Nightlife

Looking for a no-fuss spot to watch the game with a cold drink and a crowd that actually cares, The Endzone brings the classic sports bar…

3930 Veterans Pkwy

Looking for a no-fuss spot to watch the game with a cold drink and a crowd that actually cares, The Endzone brings the classic sports bar vibe Columbus folks appreciate. Come for the game, stay for the banter and the kind of energy that makes overtime feel fun.

From the Phenix City newsletter, September 2, 2026

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At Stirrup Trouble, the award-winning cocktail lounge born from a horse trailer, you get creative drinks built on house-made syrups, fresh…

900 Front Ave Ste 210

At Stirrup Trouble, the award-winning cocktail lounge born from a horse trailer, you get creative drinks built on house-made syrups, fresh juices, and locally sourced ingredients. Stick around for Trouble After Dark downstairs for DJs, dancing, and themed nights...

From the Phenix City newsletter, September 13, 2026

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FLORA

Nightlife

Flora is the whimsical wine bar and creative space locals needed, mixing low-key tastings with art workshops and a build-your-own flower…

1329 Front Ave Suite G

Flora is the whimsical wine bar and creative space locals needed, mixing low-key tastings with art workshops and a build-your-own flower bar. Expect interesting pours you haven’t tried, hands-on classes, local art, and the kind of IRL energy that makes an ordinary week feel a little more alive.

From the Columbus newsletter, August 3, 2026

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If your week needs a quick upgrade, Eighteen85 Rooftop Bar + Kitchen is pouring locally inspired crafted cocktails with shareable small…

21 14th St

If your week needs a quick upgrade, Eighteen85 Rooftop Bar + Kitchen is pouring locally inspired crafted cocktails with shareable small plates that punch above their weight. Bring a friend, find a comfy corner, and let the easygoing rooftop vibe reset your Columbus brain.

From the Columbus newsletter, August 18, 2026

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Maltitude

Nightlife

Whether your fridge needs a hop surge or something crisp and crushable, Maltitude is the Columbus craft beer bottle shop and tasting room…

1031 Broadway

Whether your fridge needs a hop surge or something crisp and crushable, Maltitude is the Columbus craft beer bottle shop and tasting room with a deep packaged selection and 20 growler and crowler taps. Grab a pint while you shop and discover something new for the week.

From the Columbus newsletter, August 11, 2026

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Southern Brewhouse (Chattabrewchee) is pouring locally made craft beer brewed with crystal-clear mountain water, giving every pint that…

1301 6th Ave Ste C

Southern Brewhouse (Chattabrewchee) is pouring locally made craft beer brewed with crystal-clear mountain water, giving every pint that easygoing taste of the South. Swing by this week for a fresh pour, friendly faces, and Columbus riverfront vibes that make an ordinary Tuesday feel like a tiny vacation.

From the Columbus newsletter, August 25, 2026

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Family-friendly entertainment center featuring bowling, laser tag, arcade games and a restaurant.

7607 Veterans Pkwy

Family-friendly entertainment center featuring bowling, laser tag, arcade games and a restaurant.

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Atlanta-born rebels with the motto “Good beer. That’s it.”, Scofflaw Brewing Columbus keeps the taps lively with their house brews, plus…

1421 6th Ave

Atlanta-born rebels with the motto “Good beer. ”, Scofflaw Brewing Columbus keeps the taps lively with their house brews, plus those Basement Bourbon Infused Beverages when you want a switch-up. Bring a few friends this week, claim a table, and let the good times surface.

From the Columbus newsletter, August 20, 2026

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Twin Peaks

Nightlife

Sports-bar chain known for its waitresses, serving American comfort food in lodgelike surroundings.

3116 Adams Farm Dr

Sports-bar chain known for its waitresses, serving American comfort food in lodgelike surroundings.

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