About: Since they opened in 2017, 3 Brothers Diner has quickly made a name for themselves around Grove City. Originally from Oaxaca, Mexico, the brothers learned to cook from their mom and they’re now sharing their unique style with customers for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their menu even offers a decent selection of vegetarian and vegan options.

Location: 3090 Southwest Blvd. Grove City, OH 43123

About: Although The Paddock Pub is technically located inside a golf course, the restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner to the general public. They opened in 2016 and have been serving up homemade American cuisine ever since. Dining with the whole fam? Don’t worry, they’ve got a kid’s menu!

Location: 1005 Richardson Road, Groveport, OH 43215

About: Starliner Diner opened in 1995, and if there was ever a place in Central Ohio that’s keeping the dream of the 90’s alive, it’s this place. Their eclectic menu paired with their self-described kitschy decor is what keeps people coming back. If I had to put a label on the diner, I’d say the food is Cuban inspired.

Location: 4121 Main St. Hilliard, OH

About: “Warm, comfortable, authentic” are words that I go nuts for when it comes to dining experience. Soulshine Tavern & Kitchen is a place where you can eat food that makes you happy, and I think we could all use a little more happiness. Any meal you eat there will be worth it, but people adore their brunch menu, which includes every millennial’s favorite indulgence, Avocado Toast.

Location: 266 E Main Street, New Albany, OH 43054

About: I don’t think I need to say this, but just in case, nothing served at Possum Holler Pizza contains opossum. But even if they did serve it, it would probably be delightful, just like everything else on their menu. This pizza place doesn’t skimp on the toppings, so be prepared to leave feeling extra full.

Location: 1876 Lisle Ave, Obetz, OH 43207

About: Hangry City is a family-run restaurant that focuses on sliders, Mac-n-cheese, fresh-cut fries, and herb tater tots: aka excellent comfort food. The casual and fun eatery has quickly become a go-to destination in Pickerington, with a multitude of glowing reviews and the delicious food to back it up.

Location: 1252 Hill Rd N, Pickerington, OH



About: What happens when you take decades-old recipes and combine them with modern innovation and amazing service? Vittoria happens. The restaurant and its delightful dishes will transport you to old-world Italy.

Location: 10241 Sawmill Parkway, Powell, OH 43065

About: First generation Americans Judy and Frank Scali wanted to bring the cuisine of their families to life in an area that needed and wanted it. They found the home for their dream restaurant in Reynoldsburg and opened their doors 25 years ago. With a variety of pasta dishes, as well as incredible house specials, Scali is where you need to be if you’ve been craving authentic Italian cuisine.

Location: 1903 Baltimore Reynoldsburg Rd, Reynoldsburg, OH

About: What if I told you there was a wonderful place nearby where you could get both perfect Italian and Creole cuisine? Guess what? There totally is, and it’s called Gallo’s Kitchen & Bar. The owners grew up in Upper Arlington and they wanted to give back to their community in the best way they knew how: by providing a place where friends and family could gather, break bread together, and enjoy each other’s company. So whether you want jambalaya or homemade meatballs, you can rest assured that Gallo’s has you covered.

Location: 2820 Nottingham Rd, Upper Arlington, OH 43221

About: Asterisk Supper Club is a must-visit for anyone heading to Westerville. From afternoon tea to a dinner of comfort food, Asterisk is truly unique. It’s the kind of place to stop by and stay awhile, chatting with friends and family, enjoying a drink or two, and just generally slowing down.

Location: 14 North State St, Westerville, OH 43081

About: I don’t know about you, but I love eating local. I made a promise to myself last year that I’d try to do it more often, and Flavor 91 Bistro is a great place to do just that. Not only do they have some of the most flavorful burgers I’ve ever tasted, but they’re also family-owned and the service is always outstanding. If you haven’t had a chance to check it out yet, I highly recommend that you put it on your “restaurants to try” list.

Location: 5186 E Main St. Whitehall, OH

About: With a menu that focuses on the embodiment of Sunday dinners, you can bet that The Whitney House knows how to serve up comfort. But what you may not be expecting is the diversity of the menu. When I say there is something for everyone, I truly mean it. From a Buckwheat Power Bowl to good old-fashioned Biscuits and Gravy, no one will leave feeling like they couldn’t find what they were craving.

Location: 666 High Street, Worthington, OH

Originally published 12/31/18. Updated 1/17/20.