Columbus has no shortage of hidden gems, and while Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives has recently spotlighted a bunch of incredible spots in Columbus (Joya’s, Katalina’s, King Gyros Greek Restaurant, etc.), these five spots are just begging for a feature.
From German classics to Middle Eastern desserts, here are five Columbus eateries that deserve a top spot on Guy Fieri’s list.
Valter’s at the Maennerchor
976 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206
Located in the Brewery District, Valter’s at the Maennerchor offers some of the best German food in Columbus with a modern twist. From schnitzels to Bavarian pretzels and Reubens, Valter’s doesn’t hold back on flavor. The Reuben alone, stacked with the juiciest corned beef I’ve ever tasted, is reason enough for a visit. Set inside the historic Columbus Maennerchor, the oldest German singing society in Ohio, the restaurant is a cultural experience, too. Stop by on a Tuesday night, and you might just get to enjoy your meal with a live choir rehearsal in the background!
Resch’s Bakery
4061 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43227
An east side staple for over a century, Resch’s Bakery has perfected the art of baking. This family-owned bakery is so popular, their cakes and donuts often sell out. Their yeast donuts are the stars of the show. Light, airy, and incredibly moist with the perfect touch of structure, and the glazes add just the right sweetness. It’s a bakery that’s stood the test of time, and any visit to Columbus isn’t complete without a taste.
Chuan Jiang Hao Zi
496 Ackerman Rd, Columbus, OH 43202
For authentic Szechuan cuisine, Chuan Jiang Hao Zi is a must-visit. This spot dishes up both traditional Szechuan dishes and Americanized favorites, all in massive portions and packed with flavor. Andrew Zimmern even shared our video about it, saying it’s proof that incredible, authentic Chinese food can be found anywhere. From spicy peppercorn-coated dishes to hearty noodle bowls, this is one of Columbus’s best-kept secrets for Chinese food.
Al Aqsa Sweets
1940 Schrock Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
Al Aqsa Sweets brings Middle Eastern desserts to Columbus in a big way. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, their Warbut (a cream-filled, honey-glazed puff pastry) is a must-try, along with their Walnut Baklava and Knafeh, a unique pistachio and sweet cheese dessert that’s unexpectedly delicious. Every treat here feels like a trip to the Middle East, and the attention to flavor and texture is unmatched.
Crunchwerks
2210 Summit St, Columbus, OH 43201
If you love Taco Bell’s Crunchwraps, Crunchwerks takes them to a new level. They’ve taken the concept and made it their own with fresh, quality ingredients you won’t find at any fast-food spot. Crunchwraps here are bigger, crunchier, and fully customizable. And don’t even get me started on their queso… it’s the perfect sidekick. Crunchwerks is the go-to for anyone craving comfort food with a twist.