Nostalgia, cocktails, and a little bit of sports history all wrapped up in one cozy package? That’s the vibe at Homage Bar in the Short North, where stepping inside feels like time-traveling back to those teenage days of sneaking a beer in your grandpa’s basement — minus the guilt, water beds, and with way better drinks.
A Bar Rooted in Columbus Culture
Homage Bar isn’t just your average watering hole. It’s the brainchild of Homage Clothing Co., a Columbus-based vintage clothing brand that’s built its reputation on celebrating nostalgia and local pride. Their leap into the bar scene makes perfect sense — it’s like their stores’ retro vibe, but with booze and meatball subs.
The entire place screams Columbus, from the Ohio State memorabilia adorning the wood-paneled walls to the relaxed atmosphere that practically begs you to settle in for a night of storytelling and arcade battles. So is it really that different from being at Grandpa’s house?
Drinks That’ll Take You Back (and Keep You Coming Back)
Homage Bar has made a name for itself with its cocktails, and it’s easy to see why. I kicked things off with an Old Fashioned because, let’s face it, I’m basically a 70-year-old trapped in a 26-year-old’s body. It was classic, smooth, and just what the doctor ordered for some nostalgic vibes.
But the real standout? The Goosebumps — a tropical blend of rum, banana liqueur, blue curaçao, lime, and pineapple. It’s refreshing, vibrant, and tastes like the kind of drink your grandpa would’ve whipped up on The Oval beach if he were trying to impress your grandma back in the day.
Ohio Vibes, Down to the Last Detail
Every inch of Homage Bar feels intentional. The Ohio State memorabilia adds a sense of hometown pride, and the vintage NBA Jam arcade game is the cherry on top. I may or may not have absolutely drained a full-court shot with Cleveland Cavaliers legend Mark Price… no big deal.
The décor strikes the perfect balance between retro charm and modern comfort. The only thing missing is some shag carpeting to complete the “grandpa’s basement” aesthetic (and honestly, I wouldn’t be mad if they added it).
Bites That’ll Stave Off Your Hunger
No great bar experience is complete without great food, and Homage Bar delivers. Their meatball sub is a game-changer — perfectly filling, packed with flavor, and just the thing to pair with a Goosebumps cocktail after a few rounds of NBA Jam.
Why You Should Check It Out
Whether you’re looking for a chill spot to grab a drink, a slice of Ohio sports history, or just an excuse to relive your childhood (without the awkward family photos on the walls), Homage Bar is the place to be.
It’s not just a bar; it’s an experience. And the best part? You don’t have to hide your drink when grandpa walks in!
