![](https://stepoutcolumbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/El-Segundo--1024x576.jpeg)
It’s summertime, folks – and we’re hungry. How about you? Well, even if you’re not – we’re gonna give you the rundown on some absolutely essential restaurants to try around Columbus. It is simply our civic duty to not withhold this information, so read on and maybe have a light breakfast… (or don’t)
1. Forno Kitchen & Bar
721 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215 / more info
If you’re in the mood for some stone-fired American food, Forno Kitchen is one of our favorites for just that. Also, the music is always bopping in there which makes the whole dining process more enjoyable.
![](https://stepoutcolumbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Forno-Kitchen-1-1024x658.jpg)
2. El Segundo Mexican Kitchen
698 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215 / more info
There’s something about this place that just makes it a stellar spot for a summer meal. Maybe it’s the robust flavors of citrus, or it’s the brightly colored green decorative accents. All we know for sure is that it’s a spot you MUST visit.
![](https://stepoutcolumbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/El-Segundo-Feature-1024x683.jpeg)
3. Jasmine Fusion Grill
560 S High St Floor 2, Columbus, OH 43215 / more info
Expand your palette with some Indian fusion food at Jasmine Fusion, a family-owned restaurant in the German Village. Their garlic naan bread is to die for.
4. Emmett’s Open Air Cafe
2571 Neil Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 / more info
It doesn’t get more summery than Emmett’s. With open windows that wrap around the whole restaurant and a killer menu, this is a great spot to unwind and enjoy the fresh air.
![](https://stepoutcolumbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Emmetts-Open-Air-1024x658.jpg)
5. Smoked On High BBQ
755 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206 / more info
Ok, do we even have to explain this one? When we think of summer, one of the first things we think of is BBQ food. Do us a favor and add Smoked On High to your list, it’ll put you in your summer feels.
![](https://stepoutcolumbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Smoked-on-High-1024x658.jpg)
6. [‘Plas]
21 E 5th Ave Suite 101, Columbus, OH 43201 / more info
Grab some friends and snack on a charcuterie board at ‘Plas. If that doesn’t fill you up, order some of their incredible pasta. Oh, we would recommend sitting on the patio – for obvious reasons.
![](https://stepoutcolumbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Plas-1024x658.jpg)
7. Stories On High
404 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215 / more info
With a warm weather window that feels like it lasts 2 minutes max, the best place you can be this summer in Ohio is outside. That’s why the rooftop at Stories on High is a total given.
![](https://stepoutcolumbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Stories-on-High-1024x658.jpg)
8. The Pearl
641 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215 / more info
Craving some seafood? The Pearl is one of Columbus’ best restaurants to get high quality seafood while also making you feel like you’re on vacation somewhere. If you’re not a fan of fish, don’t worry – there’s plenty of other incredible dishes that taste nothing like fish.
![](https://stepoutcolumbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/The-Pearl-1024x658.jpg)
9. Marcella’s
615 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215 / more info
We mean it when we say this is some of the best Italian food in Columbus. Here’s a pro-tip, order the Fettuccini and meatball. They don’t skimp out on anything, you’ll see.
![](https://stepoutcolumbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Marcellas-1024x658.jpg)
10. Katalina’s in Harrison West
1105 Pennsylvania Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 / more info
Pancake balls may be a year-round thing, but the patio at Katalina’s isn’t. So if we can make a small suggestion – hop in the car and go. Like now. It’ll be worth it.
![](https://stepoutcolumbus.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Katalinas-in-Harrison-West-1024x658.jpg)
Did one of these places close? Send us a note!