Fifth Avenue has been the northern boundary for the Short North ever since it emerged as the foremost art community in Columbus. It is the unofficial start or end of the district depending on your point of origin, and for a while, it was treated as a border: no adornment, no culture, no hot spots.

That’s been slowly changing as the Short North has undergone its latest metamorphosis, and a new breed of artisans have moved in. This new group not only sees the potential of Fifth Avenue, they relish in it.

The folks behind The Table are transforming the location at 21 East Fifth Avenue, an under-appreciated 1920s structure that once housed the Bell Telephone Company till it closed in the 1960s, into a full-service restaurant complete with in-house charcuterie and bakery.

“It is our goal to bring the freshest, healthiest, and most vibrant flavors and textures to your table,” states Jen Marlatt, one of the owners at The Table. “Our cuisine will reflect global inspiration, family traditions, and creative exploration. Our ideal clientele is conscious and passionate about the food they consume.”

The Table will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner when they open this early Fall. The menu will reflect seasonal availability of only the freshest ingredients, prepared in ways that’s accessible, but fun, funky, and full of flair.

So you may enjoy Chorizo Scotch Quail Eggs if you stop by for breakfast, a Poppy Goat Cheese Sandwich for lunch, or Aromatic Butter Chicken with Picked Mango as part of a dinner offering sure to delight your tastebuds.

The Table’s 3,000 square feet will be split into two levels: a main dining room, bar that features local spirits (of course), and side terrace will occupy the primary floor, and an interactive kitchen, event space, and meats and cheeses rooms will be housed on the lower level.

The Table intends to keep their prices as fair as possible, with breakfasts ranging from $5-$15, and lunches and dinners to run anywhere from $15-$25 depending on ingredients and specials. They currently cater events, most recently a Reiki workshop for Yoga on High, and a Cutting Edge French Wine Portfolio Showing at Seventh Son Brewing, another new Short North standout.

“We have always enjoyed the collective spirit of the Short North,” adds Marlatt. “It is a fusion of entrepreneurs building a creative environment we look forward to being a part of. When you enter our doors, it will be like a warm hug for all your senses. If you come in a stranger, you’ll no doubt leave a friend.”

The Table is poised to open at the end of September, or early October. You can check out their progress at www.facebook.com/TheTable.ForkResponsibly.

Photo by Walker Evans.