Columbus is full of unexpected gems, but few are as delightfully weird and wonderful as Donato’s Basement, better known as Club D to those in the know. Located just across the street from Ohio State’s campus, this unassuming music venue is literally tucked beneath a Donato’s Pizza.
Yes, you read that correctly. A Donato’s.
Read on to see what it’s all about, and then be sure to grab yourself a signature thin-crust pie, wash it down with a drink, and head underground for one of the most intimate and unpredictable live music experiences in the city.
A Venue Like No Other
On any given night, Club D is a complete wildcard. One night you might stumble into a high-energy rap battle, the next, a full-blown metal show rattling the walls. Indie rock? Punk? Experimental jazz? Open mic comedy? It all finds a home in this dimly lit basement venue.
And it’s not just a spot for music lovers… it’s a staple for up-and-coming musicians, especially college students looking for their first taste of performing live. My own indie-rock band even played here a few times, cramming gear into every available inch of space before launching into a set for a packed house of sweaty, pizza-fueled fans. Extra emphasis on sweaty and pizza-fueled.
The Charm of the Underground
What makes Club D special isn’t just its what-the-hell-is-this-doing-here factor. It’s the energy… the closeness… the feeling that at any moment, something completely unexpected could happen. Maybe someone will throw a pizza onstage a la Breaking Bad and the roof pizza (please don’t do that)!
Unlike larger venues, there’s no separation between the crowd and the stage. Just raw, unfiltered live music where you can feel every drumbeat and guitar riff reverberating through the walls.
It’s the kind of place where legends are born. It’s where college bands cut their teeth, where hip-hop artists test their latest bars, and where you leave feeling like you’ve just witnessed something special.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a music venue that’s off the beaten path (or, in this case, under it), Club D at Donato’s Basement is a must-visit. It’s gritty, it’s unexpected, and it’s one of the best places to catch live music in Columbus. Plus, where else can you chase a night of headbanging with a slice of Columbus’ favorite pizza?
Next time you’re near campus, skip the usual spots, grab a beer, and head downstairs. Who knows? You might just catch the next big thing before they blow up.