The best restaurants in Columbus

“Sandwich chain specializing in hot & cold subs, plus salads, in a counter-service setting.”

“Well-known fast-food chain serving grilled burgers, fries & shakes.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“Fans cheer for their teams at this laid-back bar with a broad food menu & basic industrial setting.”

“Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.”

“Old-fashioned, family-owned throwback since 1965 providing homestyle American meals & a bakery case.”

“Fast-food chain serving Mexican-inspired fare such as tacos, quesadillas & nachos.”

“Delivery, carryout & dine-in chain offering a wide range of pizzas, plus a variety of other dishes & sides.”

“Classic Mexican fare & cocktails round out the menu at this simple restaurant with a laid-back vibe.”

“Counter-serve chain specializing in sub & club sandwiches, plus signature potato chips.”

“Fast-food chain specializing in frozen custard & signature burgers made with Midwest beef & dairy.”

“Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.”

“Casual restaurant offering Mexican meals & baked goods in a modest, contemporary space.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“No-frills, counter-serve chain featuring square, pan-style pies & slices, plus pasta & breadsticks.”

“Roadside diner slinging an all-day menu of American comfort food, including a large salad bar.”

“Member of a casual chain serving large portions of Mexican favorites & margaritas.”

“Kid-friendly chain known for baked goods, breakfasts & other standards in dinerlike digs.”

“This unfussy, family-friendly diner dishes up ample servings of homestyle American classics.”

“Babes At Vitense Grill And Bar brings the beloved Babes vibe inside Vitense Golfland, serving casual American favorites, a full-service bar, and patio hangs, plus the crowd-favorite Babes Nachos.”

“Whether your morning needs pancakes, omelets, or a skillet, The Forum handles the hearty stuff and still leaves room for dessert. Their on-site bakery turns out fresh breads, cakes, and whole pies, and lunch covers the classics, from sandwiches to steaks and seafood, with true family-run warmth since 1985.”

From the Brookfield newsletter, September 1, 2026

“When you want classic, comforting plates and a round of margaritas without the fuss, Buenavista Restaurant hits the spot. It’s casual, consistent, and kid approved thanks to a kids' menu, perfect for easy weeknights or last minute gatherings with the whole crew.”

From the Racine newsletter, September 12, 2026

“La Taquerita nails the craving with legit street-style tacos, crispy flautas, and a quesabirria dinner that happily requires extra napkins. Bonus points for the elote-in-a-cup, sopes, gorditas, and even birria ramen, plus a cold horchata to make weeknights way more interesting.”

From the Kenosha newsletter, September 10, 2026

“For a legit neighborhood standby, Balistreri's Bluemound Inn keeps Tosa folks happy with award-winning thin crust pizza, house-made cheese, and locally sourced ingredients. Swing in for Sunday Brunch or the Friday Fish Fry, then linger over a glass of wine or a cold draft because why not.”

From the Wauwatosa newsletter, September 5, 2026

“La Fuente Restaurant has been family-run since 1992 and still turns out traditional Mexican dishes made in-house with the same welcoming vibe you remember. When you want a no-fuss, delicious dinner close to home, this Bluemound standby reliably hits the spot.”

From the Wauwatosa newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Wy'east Pizza is the cozy spot locals rave about for blistered, wood-fired pies topped with creative combos that somehow just work. They’re temporarily closed after a fallen tree and don’t have an ETA, so keep them on your radar and prepare your topping wish list.”

From the Wauwatosa newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Ian's Pizza Milwaukee | Story Hill keeps it casual with New York style thin crust by the slice, classic pies, salads and the creative combos they’re known for, including the signature Mac n' Cheese.”

From the West Allis newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Caradaro Club Pizza keeps it classic with the original thin crust recipe from Milwaukee’s first pizza establishment. Think crisp, no-nonsense pies with basic toppings, plenty of flavor, and hometown charm... dine in, grab carryout, or let their fast delivery handle weeknights.”

From the West Allis newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Hidden, cash-only haunt offering global small plates, cocktails & beer in an intimate space.”

“Industrial tavern offering a sushi bar, ramen bowls & Japanese tapas along with local & Asian beers.”

“Family-run eatery serving Mexican mains, including tacos, burritos and more, plus beer, margaritas and cocktails.”

“Casual eatery crafting pizza pies (including vegan and gluten-free versions) as well as tacos, and burgers.”

“Japanese hibachi-style steaks & other specialties served with a selection of sushi favorites.”

“Mexican fare and margaritas served in a relaxed space with a kids' menu.”

“Eatery doling out familiar Mexican eats such as tacos & enchiladas in a petite, unassuming setting.”

“When you want something quick but legit, El Rancho Mexican Grill nails the basics with counter-serve tacos, hefty burritos, nachos, and tortas made with fresh ingredients and family recipes. It’s comfort food that doesn’t overthink itself, just tasty and dependable when the craving hits.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Cozy, family-friendly joint offering creative, thin-crust pizzas & Italian comfort food favorites.”

“D’Vino is your move when you want Italian done right, from a glass of something lovely to cicchetti that turn snacking into a sport. Cozy, low-light vibes make it prime for catching up or leaning into romance, so put it on your weeknight rotation.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Sizable, homestyle Italian plates & pizza are offered in a homey mainstay with quaint decor & a bar.”

“Mom-&-pop operation dishing up daily specials such as meatloaf & catfish in relaxed surrounds.”

“Laid-back BBQ restaurant & sports bar offering signature ribs & a shuttle to area sports games.”

“Craving a midweek upgrade? Awi Sushi is all about fresh, made-to-order bites from an owner who’s spent 15+ years perfecting the craft, with more than 70 creative special rolls that swing from classic to wild. Pick a few, share around, and call it a win.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, August 7, 2026

“Because sometimes brunch cravings hit at sunrise or after dark, Bassett Street Brunch Club blends retro vibes with a bold, modern twist, set downtown between campus and the Capitol. Expect colorful comfort plates, brunch meets cocktails energy, and donuts getting the spotlight...”

From the Madison newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Sunny Pho is the weeknight reset you forgot you needed. Big, soothing bowls of pho with fragrant broth and all the fresh herbs, perfect when you want something warm, quick, and unfussy, so treat yourself this week and let that slurpable comfort carry you through.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Popular restaurant chain with a variety of chicken wings, chicken tenders, boneless wings & sides for dine-in, takeout & delivery.”

“Bennets Pizza keeps Milwaukee fed with dough made fresh every day, 37+ toppings, and real 100% Wisconsin cheese, plus 22+ specialty pies that actually deliver on flavor. Not feeling pizza?”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, August 15, 2026

“All-you-can-eat restaurant providing sushi, sashimi, and hibachi dishes for lunch and dinner.”

“Cool pizza place serving Detroit-style pies with a wide range of toppings, plus cocktails.”

“Sleek, upscale New American spot with a huge wine list & a conservatory with Lake Michigan views.”

“Nakama blends an intimate omakase bar and a hand roll bar with Japanese listening bar vibes, so your sushi comes with a soundtrack. If you’re craving a treat-yourself night that feels special without the stuffy, this is your midweek upgrade.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Small, minimalist restaurant serving up creative Italian fare & wine by the glass or bottle.”

“Japanese-cuisine izakaya/restaurant specializing in skewers, ramen and tonkatsu chicken dishes.”

“Wisconsin-born chain known for its creative pizzas including its signature mac 'n' cheese pie.”

“Lively gastropub plating farm-to-table comfort fare in a modern glass venue with Capitol views.”

“Screaming Tuna pairs sustainably sourced sushi with a riverside bar pouring world class sakes, wines and local brews. Head into the city this week, bring your roll-obsessed buddy or the vegan or gluten-free friend, then linger over creative cocktails while the river does its calming thing.”

From the Waukesha newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Wisconsin-born chain known for its creative pizzas including its signature mac 'n' cheese pie.”

“Counter-serve smokehouse chain offering classic barbecue fare in down-home settings.”

“Sweet Diner keeps the American brunch and lunch classics coming in a vibrant, cozy setting that feels like a little victory lap for making it through the week. Crispy, fluffy, savory, sweet... pick your mood and settle in.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Local fast-food chain featuring fried chicken, fish & shrimp, plus wings, in a low-key setting.”

“When you need a legit, juicy fix between spins or after a long day, Burger Co. keeps it simple and stellar with burgers you actually crave and fresh hand-cut fries that disappear too fast. Part of Potawatomi Marketplace, so grabbing a round two is dangerously easy.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Barbecue restaurant and takeaway spot where platters, sandwiches and bowls are the norm.”

“Daytime American cafe with views of planes taking off & landing at Dane County Airport.”

“Creative cuisine & cocktails served in a redbrick restaurant with a stylish, old-school interior.”

“Chef’s tasting menu of creative, upscale New American fare & wine served in an elegant venue.”

“Counter-serve chain for custom burgers, including poultry & veggie versions, plus fries & shakes.”

“Lombardino's Restaurant keeps it cozy and neighborly with a seasonal menu that leans on local farms and top imports from Italy. Pair it with their exclusively Italian wine list and you’ve got an easy midweek upgrade that feels special without trying too hard.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Upscale chophouse serving steaks & seafood, plus a classic bar menu in dark-wood environs.”

“When you're on the east side, Glass Nickel Pizza Co. - Madison East does the creative-pie thing right, with classic pastas, wings, and even fish and shrimp, plus in-house delivery from folks who actually work there... all wrapped in their Pizza with Purpose vibe.”

From the Sun Prairie newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Casual restaurant offering Laotian fare such as pho and sticky rice, plus vegetarian options.”

“Casual chain featuring BBQ & classic sides, plus memorabilia honoring soldiers & first responders.”

“Upscale-casual choice offering contemporary American fare & a full bar with local beers on tap.”

“Mint Mark nails the New American small-plates thing with punchy flavors, smart cocktails, and that cheeky martini lunch that makes Friday feel like a minor holiday. Brunch and dinner are equally shareable and fun, and the cozy blue-brick vibe makes it easy to linger with friends.”

From the Sun Prairie newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Wood-fired pizzas, housemade pastas & classic Italian mains served in a warm trattoria with a patio.”

“Gourmet thin-crust pizza, wine, craft beer & desserts served in a cool space with an herb garden.”

“Glass Nickel Pizza Co. - Madison West kicked off the Pizza of the Month, so expect playful, creative pies made by a crew that takes service seriously. Their in-house delivery team keeps your order in trusted hands from oven to doorstep, which basically translates to weeknight hero status this week.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Industrial-style tavern with varied burgers, sandwiches & other Americans eats, plus many beers.”

“Unfussy neighborhood eatery & bar serving American pub grub, burgers & craft beers.”

“The Conroy - Modern Supper Club is where Milwaukee’s classic supper club vibe gets fancy, with A5 Japanese Wagyu, Royal Osetra caviar flights, hand-cut steaks, and a cocktail program that actually inspires, all set to live jazz that turns a random weeknight into a small celebration.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Mizuno Sushi is the kind of spot you keep in your rotation, with crisp tempura maki, clean-cut nigiri, and fun signatures like the Madison Roll, Orange Dragon, and Shaggy Dog. Add spicy tuna crispy rice, hama chili, or unagi don with miso for a mood-improving meal.”

“Cozy, laid-back spot serving large portions of seasonal Italian fare & an extensive wine list.”

“Contemporary bistro serving Midwestern cuisine prepared on an open-fire hearth.”

“Farm-to-fork Italian restaurant with housemade pastas & wood-fired pizzas, plus a sizable wine list.”

“This week, whether you roll boneless or stick to traditional, Wingz and Things nails the crispy, saucy wing situation, then backs it up with smash burgers dripping in house-made special sauce and waffle fries. Round it out with Pepper Jack Cheese Curds, the MKE Drunk Dog, or an Oreo shake... treat yo’ self.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Modern campus bistro featuring seasonal New American fare & cocktails in stylish surrounds.”

“Monty's Blue Plate Diner brings 1950s charm to a renovated gas station with breakfast all day, craveable comfort food, and plenty of vegetarian and vegan picks. It’s a Madison mainstay with real community roots, so it’s the kind of spot you’ll keep in your regular rotation.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Relaxed locale serving typical sushi rolls & Japanese/Chinese mains, plus lunch specials.”

“Since 1946, Five O'Clock Steakhouse has nailed the Milwaukee supper club vibe, from sizzling, expertly charred cuts and classic cocktails to the cozy Alley Cat Lounge with live music. It’s big on tradition, not trends, and fresh off a 2026 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, September 18, 2026

“High-end property with sophisticated quarters, a rooftop bar & Mediterranean dining, plus a gym.”

“Stylish 1920s-inspired cafe with a lush garden patio serving organic, locally sourced fare & brews.”

“Counter-serve chain for custom burgers, including poultry & veggie versions, plus fries & shakes.”

“Calderone Club - Downtown Milwaukee turns out Milwaukee’s beloved thin-crust pizza using the original Caradaro Club recipe from 1945, plus fresh-made-daily pasta and classics like chicken parmesan and veal piccata.”

From the Milwaukee newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Saigon Noodles Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine nails the cozy bowl vibe with a family-recipe pho, fragrant Hu Tieu and Mi, and fresh vermicelli bowls, plus solid vegetarian picks. Swing by this weekend for their weekend specials and Vietnamese sandwiches, then pair it with a curated beer or wine.”

From the Madison newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Casual, 2-level bar with artisanal cocktails & pub grub plus TV sports & a cozy downstairs lounge.”

“Outpost of a Brazilian steakhouse chain offering skewered meats carved tableside, plus a salad bar.”

“Craving a fun, zero-fuss dinner you cook yourself this week? Korill Hut Korean BBQ & Hot Pot brings a modern, all-you-can-eat spread of fresh cuts, veggies, and flavorful marinades, with sizzling grills and bubbling broths at the table so you can mix, match, and feast with your favorite people.”

From the Sun Prairie newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Reimagined Italian pasta & pizza, plus wine & cocktails, in a contemporary, relaxed bistro setting.”

“Crave some groove with dinner, Sun Prairie? Lola's Hi/Lo Lounge leans into the hi-fi theme with crisp pizzas, hearty comfort dishes, balanced cocktails, and a tidy craft beer and wine list, plus music and events on the calendar... and you can rent the Sidecar for your own shindig.”

From the Sun Prairie newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Pasture and Plenty turns Wisconsin-grown goodness into legit-easy meals, with a local meal kit that includes one cook kit, one farm-to-freezer, and one heat-and-eat option each week. Their deli and marketplace keep plant-based and pasture-raised vibes high, so dinner actually feels good again.”

From the Janesville newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Pink Flamingo Brunch Cafe leans into locally sourced ingredients and an easygoing brunch vibe that feels like a small reward for making it through the week. If you're up in Madison anyway, add it to your rotation... fresh, thoughtful plates that hit the spot without trying too hard.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Wood-fired place offering pastas salads, steaks, swordfish and other meats.”

“Upscale steakhouse serving classic surf 'n' turf & wine in a retro, supper club-style venue.”

“Beer, pizza & other Italian eats in a casual eatery with late-night hours, a jukebox & photo booth.”

“Golden Nest Pancake Cafe Madison keeps weekday breakfasts and lazy weekends equally happy with classic-to-creative plates, from Benedicts and skillets to chilaquiles and fluffy pancakes. There’s a full drink and espresso bar, plus turkey and veggie sausage options so your non-pork friends aren’t stuck with toast.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Rustic-chic spot offering a daily changing menu of New American plates plus cocktails & beer.”

“The Milwaukee Steakhouse is all about the steak, serving char broiled USDA Choice Black Angus cuts alongside seafood and classic American comforts, plus a legit cocktail lineup at the bar. If your week needs a win, make it this week and let dinner reset the mood.”

From the Racine newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Bar & grill, housed in an original Schlitz tavern, known for Bloody Marys, burgers & sandwiches.”

“Fast-food joint dishing up hormone- and antibiotic-free chicken, wings, and other comfort bites.”

“Muramoto Hilldale nails the balance of pristine sushi and playful Asian-fusion small plates, with sake, shochu, and proper cocktails to match; think Muramoto and Tarantula rolls, silky miso black cod, and clearly marked gluten-free or vegan options when your crew is mixed.”

From the Madison newsletter, September 4, 2026

“A contemporary spot for creative sushi rolls & traditional Thai dishes served in a stylish space.”

“Charming bistro with exposed brick & a bar area, featuring signature pizzas, Italian subs & pastas.”

“Colorful eatery serving up sushi rolls and bowls, as well as beer and wine, plus sake.”

“Cozy spot serving sushi rolls, lunchtime bento boxes & other Japanese fare in a casual venue.”

“A fancy steakhouse with an old-school vibe serving classy cuts & sides paired with fine wines.”

“Spanish & Portuguese plates are paired with cocktails & wine in a cozy-chic setting.”

“When the craving hits for smoke, bark and melt-in-your-fork slices, Beef Butter BBQ nails it with Texas Smoked Prime Beef Brisket, meaty ribs, pulled pork and house-made sausages. Need to feed a crowd? Their catering crew handles weddings and big work shindigs, so you can focus on the fun.”

From the Sun Prairie newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Cozy chophouse restaurant offering Italian dishes, steaks, cocktails, and private dining.”

“Vibrant eatery featuring pho (including seafood varieties) and fried seafood rice, along with bubble teas.”

“Classic restaurant/lounge in the historic Pfister Hotel offering steakhouse fare & live jazz.”

“Movida at Hotel Madrid brings a lively, modern spin to Spanish tapas, with shareable hits like paella, pan con tomate, and patatas bravas. Grab your people for a night of small plates, a fun brunch scene, and rooftop or patio vibes when the weather cooperates.”

From the Fond du Lac newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Belgian beers & comfort-food fare served in a European-style cafe with a vintage-chic vibe.”