Columbus Cuisine Conquers America: USA TODAY Names Our Food Scene Best in Nation!

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In today's newsletter:

• Easton's Summer Expansion: 10 new restaurants & shops opening soon!

• Cincinnati's Losanti Steakhouse: Making its Columbus debut at Gravity

• Columbus Food Scene Ranked Top in Nation: Multiple local spots receive USA TODAY honors

• York Steak House: Why locals are lining up at this no-frills Columbus institution

• Earth Day Events: Multiple ways to celebrate across Central Ohio this week

• Best Dish in Columbus: What locals say you absolutely must try

• Things to Do This Weekend: From Crew matches to wine festivals

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A MESSAGE FROM GAGAN: COLUMBUS KEEPS GROWING...

Have you been to Easton lately? Every time I visit, there's something new under construction. I remember when people used to say malls were dying, well, Easton clearly didn't get the memo. With 10 new restaurants and shops opening this summer, our city's premier shopping destination continues to evolve and thrive.

Speaking of thriving, I've been exploring Columbus's culinary scene more deeply these days. That Reddit thread about "best dishes in Columbus" had me making a restaurant bucket list. Want the thread, the DM me on Insta.

It's amazing how our food scene has developed, from institutions like York Steak House to innovative spots bringing international flavors to Central Ohio. And now we're even attracting restaurants from other cities - like Cincinnati's Losanti Steakhouse making its way to the Gravity development!

As our city continues to gain recognition for livability and quality of life, I'm seeing more interest from out-of-state buyers who are discovering what we've known all along - Columbus offers an exceptional mix of affordability, opportunity, and community.

I actually did an entire video on all the new things coming to Columbus in 2025, you can watch it here

Let's dive into all the exciting updates happening across Central Ohio!

-Gagan Timsina

CINCINNATI'S LOSANTI STEAKHOUSE COMING SOON TO COLUMBUS

A stylish new steakhouse is making its way from Cincinnati to the heart of Columbus, adding another gem to our already vibrant culinary landscape!

Key Highlights:

• First-ever expansion outside Cincinnati for the acclaimed boutique steakhouse

• Taking over former Taft's Brewing Co. space at 440 W. Broad St. in the Gravity development

• Known for vintage-inspired atmosphere and elevated classic American fare

• Operated by Crown Restaurant Group, which runs several successful Cincinnati eateries

What Makes It Special:

• Upscale takes on steakhouse classics, including filet mignon and pan-roasted seafood

• Hearty pork chops that have earned a dedicated following

• Part of Kaufman Development's vision to bring high-quality culinary experiences to the neighborhood

• Perfect addition to the west side of downtown's evolving food scene

This expansion signals Columbus's growing reputation as a serious culinary destination capable of attracting established concepts from other cities. While an official opening date hasn't been announced yet, this is definitely one to watch for steak lovers and those who appreciate thoughtfully designed dining spaces.

10 NEW RESTAURANTS & SHOPS COMING TO EASTON THIS SUMMER!

Whoever said malls are "dying" needs to take a trip out to Easton! The outdoor mall is continuing to evolve, bringing in world-class dining, high-class brands, and innovative retailers.

Key Highlights:

• All 10 new businesses opening Summer 2025

• Mix of dining, fashion, and specialty retail

• Focus on premium and sustainable brands

• Diamond Cellar expanding with luxury brands Rolex and Patek Philippe

New Restaurants Opening:

• Bareburger: New York-based sustainable burger chain (4206 Worth Avenue)

• Bar Italia: New concept from NCR Ventures restaurant group (4145 The Strand)

Fashion & Retail Additions:

• Carhartt: Rugged, all-weather apparel (4174 Worth Avenue)

• Vuori: Performance apparel blending fitness and lifestyle (4200 The Strand)

• Todd Snyder: Sophisticated menswear (4174 The Strand)

• Faherty: Family-owned surf-inspired sustainable clothing (4215 The Strand)

• Peter Millar: Luxury performance sportswear (4172 The Strand)

• Princess Polly: Trending fashion with sustainable options (4035 The Strand West)

• Altar'd State: Fashion-forward apparel with community impact (3961 Easton Station)

Recently Opened:

• Mastro's steakhouse (3965 New Bond Street)

• Allen Edmonds premium men's footwear (4065 New Bond St)

• NAPA Kitchen & Bar California-inspired dining (4055 The Strand West)

Easton continues to cement its position as Central Ohio's premier shopping destination by attracting a mix of established luxury brands and trendy newcomers. The focus on sustainable and community-minded retailers shows how the development is evolving to meet changing consumer preferences.

YORK STEAK HOUSE: A COLUMBUS INSTITUTION DRAWING CROWDS DECADES LATER

Time stands still at this West Broad Street culinary time capsule, where locals are lining up for what some consider the best steaks in the US - at family-friendly prices!

Key Highlights:

• Vintage 1970s atmosphere with unchanged decor

• Cafeteria-style service with visible food preparation

• Consistent, high-quality steaks at reasonable prices

• Famous house salad bar and perfectly executed sides

What Makes It Special:

• Distinctive retro building with arched entrance

• Wood paneling, burgundy booths, and chandeliers

• No-frills approach focusing on food quality

• Democratizing dining experience for all budgets

Must-Try Menu Items:

• Perfectly seasoned sirloin steak with coveted grill marks

• Marbled ribeye for extra flavor

• Sirloin tips with mushroom gravy

• Baked potatoes loaded with all the fixings

• Classic salad bar with fresh ingredients

In an era where restaurants redesign interiors every few years to stay "relevant," York's steadfast commitment to its original aesthetic feels almost rebellious. This Columbus institution proves that excellent food at fair prices never goes out of style.

Looking for an authentic Columbus dining experience? This institution deserves a spot on your must-visit list!

EARTH DAY EVENTS ACROSS CENTRAL OHIO THIS WEEK

Earth Day celebrations continue throughout the week with multiple opportunities to get involved in environmental activities across the region. [Axios]

Key Highlights:

• Over 30 volunteer cleanup events with Green Columbus

• Free tree planting at Quarry Trails Metro Park

• Educational activities at Franklin Park Conservatory

• Weekend celebration at the Columbus Zoo

• Plant sales and sustainability forums

Event Details:

Green Columbus Volunteer Opportunities

• Trash pickup and green space beautification all week

• Free family celebration Sunday (11am-7pm) at Scioto Audubon Metro Park

Tree Planting at Quarry Trails

• Thursday, April 24, 4-6pm

• 2600 Dublin Road

• All supplies provided, FREE!

Franklin Park Conservatory Plant Walk

• Learn to forage for food in urban environments

• Thursday, April 24, 6-8pm

• Tickets: $28-35

Columbus Zoo Conservation Weekend

• Meet local conservation groups

• Saturday-Sunday, April 26-27, 9am-5pm

• Recycling collection for batteries, electronics, and styrofoam

• Included with regular admission

Lynd Fruit Farm Market Opening

• Pollinator-friendly plants available

• Sunday, April 27, 10am-2pm

• 9399 Morse Road, Pataskala

Sustainability Forum

• Washington Gladden Social Justice Park

• Sunday, April 27, 12:30pm

• 404 E. Broad St., FREE!

These events showcase Columbus's growing commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement. With perfect spring weather in the forecast, it's an ideal time to get outside and make a difference in our community.

Which one are you going too?

COLUMBUS FOODIES REVEAL THE CITY'S BEST DISHES

A recent online discussion asked Columbus residents to name the single best dish in the city - from appetizers to entrees to desserts. The responses highlight the incredible diversity and quality of our local food scene!

Key Highlights:

• Northeast Chinese Restaurant dominates with multiple mentions

• Range from upscale dining to 1am crave cases

• Strong showing from international cuisines

• Mix of established institutions and newer hotspots

Top Mentioned Dishes:

• Cumin potatoes from N.E. Chinese (High Street) "Stand-out for deliciousness, bang-for-buck, and uniqueness"

• Spicy twice cooked fish/tofu from N.E. Chinese Multiple recommendations for this campus-area favorite

• Pabellón Criollo from El Arepazo A Venezuelan classic done perfectly

• Chapman's fries "Time is now tracked as before and after Chapman's fries"

• Chicken with green peppercorn at Chuan Jiang Hao Zi Recommended by a top community food enthusiast

• Pad Thai from Bamboo Thai Kitchen "Flavor and serving size for the win!"

• Warios Way sandwich Simple recommendation but clearly needs no explanation

• Bone Marrow dish at Speck For more adventurous diners

• Cap City Diner's Blue Cheese Chips A Columbus classic that stands the test of time

• White Castle crave case at 1am Because sometimes nothing else will do!

This list shows why Columbus continues to gain recognition as a serious food city, with options ranging from affordable comfort food to sophisticated culinary creations.

Want to try them all? Challenge accepted!

THIS WEEKEND IN COLUMBUS: APRIL 24-27

Looking for things to do this weekend? Columbus has you covered with sports, festivals, markets, performances, and more!

Event Highlights:

Columbus Crew vs. Nashville SC

• Saturday, April 26, 7:30 PM

• Lower.com Field

• Eastern Conference matchup

Spring Wine Festival

• Friday & Saturday, April 25-26, 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM

• North Market Bridge Park, Dublin

• Over 20 Ohio wineries, food vendors, live music

Farmers Market Weekend

• Saturday, April 26, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

• Clintonville Farmers' Market, N High St & Orchard Ln

• Early spring produce, artisanal foods, coffee, baked goods

Columbus Museum of Art Exhibition

• Ongoing April 24-27

• "American Modernism: From O'Keeffe to Hopper"

• Perfect weekend activity with perfect spring weather

Patio Season in Full Swing

• Top spots: Lindey's, Lincoln Social Rooftop, Barcelona

• Special spring menus at multiple locations

Friday, April 25: [From ExperienceColumbus]

• Blooms & Butterflies at Franklin Park Conservatory (through July 6)

• OhioDance Festival at Sullivant Hall (through April 27)

• A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical at Ohio Theatre (through April 27)

• American Roots Ensemble concert at Swasey Chapel

• AWOLNATION: The Phantom Five Tour at Newport Music Hall

• Big Ten Men's Tennis Championship at Auer Tennis Complex (through April 27)

• "Bothered & Bewildered" at Columbus Performing Arts Center

• Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at Westerville South High School (through April 27)

• Creepy Columbus Downtown Walking Tour

• Espresso Martini Flights at Soul at the Joseph

• LEGO F1-themed 'Build the Thrill Event' at LEGOLAND Discovery Center

• Fourth Street Fridays: Business Bingo at Budd Dairy Food Hall

• Music Trivia at BrewDog Franklinton

Saturday, April 26:

• Columbus Mimosa Fest at Genoa Park

• Enjoy x Puzzle at Newport Music Hall

• Feeding the Alligators - Love&Teeth at Up Front Performance Space

• Jim Jefferies at Wexner Center for the Arts

• MILOŠ at McCoy Community Center for the Arts

• OhioHealth Capital City Half & Quarter Marathon

• OVR-Mizuno Girls Junior Championships at Greater Columbus Convention Center

• Patio Live Music Opening Weekend at Flint Station

• Pluck the G String! at Bossy Grrl's Pinup Joint

• Stand Up Comedy - Nef Johnson Live at The Attic Comedy Club

• Transcendance at Bossy Grrl's Pinup Joint

Sunday, April 27:

• Spring Concert 2025 at Capital University

• Central Ohio Symphony Season 46 April Concert at Gray Chapel

• 2025 Short North Gala at Hilton Columbus Downtown

• Lance Johnson exhibit at Richard M. Ross Art Museum

• Sunday Cinema Club at BrewDog Franklinton

• Alternative Watercolor Techniques with Marjaneh Abbasi at Cultural Arts Center

• Brush Crazy Fluid Art-Paint Pouring Class

• Corks & Curls: Bubbly Bar and Hairstyling Soiree at The Lady Lounge

• Music Trivia at Natalie's Grandview

• Sci-Fi Fantasy Book Club at Storyline Bookshop

Weekend Weather:

• Thursday-Friday: Mostly sunny, highs in the mid-70s

• Saturday: Sunny with light winds, high 74°F

• Sunday: Partly cloudy, high 72°F

Perfect spring weather continues for exploring Columbus!

COLUMBUS FOOD SCENE RANKED TOP IN THE NATION BY USA TODAY

It's official - Columbus has cemented its status as a premier food destination, with USA TODAY readers ranking four of our food hubs among the best in the nation! [Yahoo]

Key Highlights:

• Multiple Columbus food destinations recognized in USA TODAY's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

• Recognition spans food halls, farmers markets, public markets, and food tours

• Celebrates our city's vibrant multicultural food scene and small family businesses

Award Winners:

• Budd Dairy Food Hall: Ranked #4 Best Food Hall in America

  • Former milk processing plant transformed into culinary incubator

  • 10 kitchens including the Hatch, a revolving pop-up restaurant concept

  • Highlights include Modern Southern Table, The Cheesecake Girl, and Tacos Rudos

• Worthington Farmers Market: Ranked #5 Best Farmers Market in America

  • Central Ohio's largest farmers market, established in 1987

  • 100+ vendors offering locally grown produce and artisanal products

  • Year-round operation with outdoor summer season starting May 3rd

• North Market Downtown: Ranked #6 Best Public Market in America

  • Historic market dating back to 1876

  • Diverse offerings from Hoyo's Kitchen to Marlow's Cheesesteaks

  • Sister location in Dublin extends the experience

• Columbus Food Adventures: Ranked #7 Best Food Tour in America

  • 11 different tour experiences since 2010

  • Neighborhood walking tours, van tours, and beverage experiences

  • Perfect for both visitors and locals exploring diverse foods

This national recognition affirms what we locals have known for years - Columbus offers an incredible variety of authentic, high-quality dining experiences that rival much larger cities!

THIS WEEK'S WRAP-UP

Home owners: With Easton's continued expansion and development, properties in the northeast corridor of the city may see increased appreciation as the area continues to grow as a destination.

Home buyers: The vibrant food scene highlighted in our "best dishes" roundup shows the rich cultural life developing in previously overlooked neighborhoods - these could be smart investments.

Real estate Investors: The continued investment in community green spaces and Earth Day initiatives points to Columbus's commitment to livability, which drives long-term property values.

Bottom line: Columbus continues to evolve with exciting new retail developments, a deepening culinary scene, and strong community engagement - all signs of a healthy, growing city with plenty of real estate opportunities.

Thinking about making a move? Let's chat and connect you with our partners!

[Schedule a call]

See you next week,

— Gagan Timsina

P.S. York Steak House has survived where many chain restaurants have failed - a testament to consistency and quality. There's a real estate lesson there about the value of maintaining what works while the world changes around you.

P.P.S. With 10 new openings at Easton this summer, the time to explore retail or restaurant opportunities in complementary areas is now. Want to discuss the retail/commercial landscape? Let's connect!