Columbus has an incredible food scene, and some of the best bites in the city come from women-owned restaurants. Whether it’s pastries, pizza, Mediterranean, or Filipino fare, these local spots are serving up flavors that will make you wonder why you ever bothered eating anywhere else. So yes, you do eat like a girl — and that’s a great thing.
Bake Me Happy
Multiple Locations
- 500 E Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43206
- 6750 Longshore Dr, Dublin, OH 43017
This bakery is a godsend for anyone with gluten intolerance, but don’t get it twisted: Their baked goods are so good, you’d never know they were gluten-free. From homemade Twinkies to cookies and everything in between, Bake Me Happy proves that dietary restrictions don’t mean sacrificing taste.
Fox in the Snow Cafe
Multiple Locations
- 38 West Bridge St, Dublin, OH 43017
- 1031 N. Fourth St, Columbus, OH 43201
- 210 Thurman Ave, Columbus, OH 43206
- 160 West Main St, New Albany, OH 43054
One of the most well-known cafes in the state (and apparently, the world according to this article), Fox in the Snow is home to some of the best pastries and breakfast sandwiches you’ll ever have. Owner Lauren Culley and her husband, Jeff Excell, have built an empire around high-quality ingredients, perfect coffee, and, of course, the Souffled Egg Sandwich — a true breakfast masterpiece.
Katalina’s
Multiple Locations
- 1105 Pennsylvania Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
- 3481 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214
- 2741 E Main St, Bexley, OH 43209
Katalina’s is a Columbus institution, and for good reason. Owner Kathleen Day (aka Katalina) is responsible for gifting the world the legendary Pancake Balls. Whether you go for Nutella, dulce de leche, or Pumpkin-Apple Butter filling, you can’t go wrong. Also, if you don’t order the Sweet ‘N’ Spicy Bacon, you’re doing it wrong.
Natalie’s Grandview
945 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
Natalie’s isn’t just a music venue… it’s an experience. Reminiscent of NYC jazz lounges, this spot has two stages, featuring a lineup that’s a mix of local and national touring musicians. The vibes? Immaculate. The pizza? Some of the best in Columbus. Owner Natalie Jackson has created the perfect combination of entertainment and dining, making it a must-visit spot.
Pistacia Vera
541 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215
French-inspired pastries in the heart of Columbus? Yes, please. Pistacia Vera is a gem, known for its flaky croissants, delicate macarons, and a rotating selection of beautiful, delicious desserts. If you need something savory to balance out the sweetness, their mushroom quiche or egg salad sandwich are both lights out.
SōW Plated
1625 W Lane Ave, Upper Arlington, OH 43221
SōW Plated is all about food as medicine. Their farm-fresh menu is crafted around 12 ingredients scientifically proven to boost mood, and they take a holistic approach to dining with a focus on fresh, whole foods. Expect a bright, welcoming atmosphere, genuine hospitality, and a rotating menu of creative, nutritious dishes that make healthy eating actually exciting (thank god).
The Brown Bag Delicatessen
898 Mohawk St, Columbus, OH 43206
This isn’t just one of the best delis in Columbus, it’s one of the best in the entire state. Located in the heart of German Village, The Brown Bag was named Ohio’s most iconic sandwich shop by Tasting Table, and it lives up to the hype. Freshly made sandwiches, housemade sides, and a cozy, inviting atmosphere make this a perfect lunch spot.
Mazah Mediterranean Eatery
1453 Grandview Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
My love affair with Mazah started in college, and it hasn’t faded one bit. Everything here tastes incredibly fresh, and the family-owned vibe makes the experience even better. In the summer, their patio is one of the best places to enjoy Mediterranean flavors while being surrounded by fragrant herbs. If you haven’t tried Mazah yet, you’re missing out.
Bonifacio
1577 King Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43212
Bonifacio brings authentic Filipino flavors to Columbus, and it feels like a warm hug in restaurant form. Owner Krizzia Yanga has created a space that embodies Filipino hospitality, and the food is as fresh as it is flavorful. I have it on good authority (from my friend’s Filipino girlfriend, who is an incredible cook) that Bonifacio is the real deal.
Pattycake Bakery
3870 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214
Vegan baked goods that even non-vegans will love? Pattycake Bakery makes it happen. Everything is made from scratch with organic ingredients, and their commitment to sustainability is just as impressive as their cookies, cakes, and pastries. Plus, they’re a worker-owned cooperative, which means the people making your treats actually have a stake in the business.
Al-Aqsa Sweets
1940 Schrock Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
I owe Columbus Food Adventures a huge thank-you for introducing me to Al-Aqsa Sweets. Their Middle Eastern pastries are life-changing, from the rich, nutty baklava to the creamy, dreamy knafeh. The story behind the shop is just as moving — owner Fathieh Abdellatif opened Al-Aqsa in honor of her late husband, ensuring their dream of sharing Palestinian sweets with the world in a brick & mortar shop became a reality.
Happy Little Treats Bakery
1203 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Another Columbus vegan bakery knocking it out of the park, Happy Little Treats specializes in everything from cookies and croissants to cakes and breads. But the real stars of the show? Their handmade pop tarts. They crank out about 1,000 a week, and I can personally confirm they’re so good, they ruined actual PopTarts for me forever. Flaky, sweet, and ridiculously delicious… they’re really THAT good.
These incredible women-owned restaurants are shaping Columbus’ food scene in the best way possible. Whether you’re craving pastries, sandwiches, Mediterranean dishes, or something entirely new, this list has you covered. Support these businesses, eat like a girl, and enjoy every bite.