If you’ve lived in Columbus for a while, you’ve likely heard it described as “a young and growing city.”
But don’t let the youthful vibe fool you—Central Ohio is home to some truly historic bars and restaurants, nestled throughout Columbus, its suburbs, and beyond.
While some of these establishments are well-known landmarks, others are hidden gems—though calling them “hidden” might be a stretch since they’ve been around for over a century (or even two)!
If you’re eager to step back in time and experience what life was like centuries ago, these historic spots in Central Ohio are a must-visit.
Ye Olde Trail Tavern | Opened 1827
228 Xenia Ave, Yellow Springs, OH 45387
Starting as the only building in Yellow Springs on Route 68 at the time of its inaugural year, Ye Olde Trail Tavern has seen nearly two centuries of change around her walls. Heck, even the town of Yellow Springs wasn’t registered until nearly two decades after the Tavern was opened. Here you can enjoy local craft, imported, or domestic beers and wines, as well as a list of specialty cocktails. Some even say it’s haunted, so if you’ve been having trouble making human friends, maybe the spiritual realm will give you better luck!
The Jury Room | Built 1831
22 E Mound St, Columbus, OH 43215
This place has been a stagecoach stop, a courthouse inn, and even a lively bordello since 1831, but it’s best known as the legendary watering hole for judges and locals in the 20th century. Now an event space, it’s open to the public most weekends, still brimming with the charm and character that made it a Columbus staple. The Historic Jury Room continues to capture the spirit of its storied past while welcoming new memories in the making.
Schmidt’s | Opened 1886
240 E Kossuth St, Columbus, OH 43206
One of the most famous restaurants in all of Columbus, Schmidt’s history goes back father than most Central Ohioans think. Schmidt’s first started as a meat processing and packaging business that eventually turned into a concession stand at the Ohio State Fair in 1914, and then a full-service restaurant in 1967. Since then, both the concession stand and restaurant became some of the most consistently popular eateries in Central Ohio. If you haven’t experienced Schmidt’s yet, it’s about time you change that.
Ringside Café | Opened 1897
19 N Pearl St, Columbus, OH 43215
You don’t become a downtown Columbus institution by offering a bland atmosphere with bland food and bland drinks. That said, you just know that when you walk into Ringside Café, you’re in for a memorable experience. This cozy space has stained glass windows, authentic artwork and paintings, and a vibe that will leave you craving a burger and a brew. Luckily, they have one of the best burgers in the city, and each comes with house-made Kettle Chips and a pickle.
Columbia Larrimer Building | Built 1897
161 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
The Larrimer Building, while currently home to Elevator Brewery & Draught Haus, originally opened as Bott Brothers’ Billiards in 1897, and is a historic gem in its own right. Complete with a mahogany bar that once stole the show at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, this landmark, a member of the National Register of Historic Places, has seen it all, from the whiskey distillery days upstairs to the trough by the bar where Teddy Roosevelt is rumored to have taken a pee break! With its stunning stained glass, intricate mosaic tile flooring, and lavish ceiling, the building maintains its original charm while offering a modern twist. Elevator keeps the spirit of its storied past alive with fresh, seasonal dishes and a wide selection of handcrafted beers and spirits, inviting both history buffs and beer lovers to experience its legendary vibe.
The Buxton Inn | Opened 1812
313 E Broadway, Granville, OH 43023
The oldest spot on our list, this historic inn opened its doors in 1812 and they have been open ever since. Initially known as “The Tavern,” the Buxton Inn had a ballroom, stagecoach court, and a dining room, which is everything one could’ve asked for back in the early 19th century. This spot is renowned for serving as a watering hole for numerous U.S. Presidents, including William Henry Harrison, who was a close friend of founder Orrin Granger. This is the ultimate spot if you’re looking for the closest thing to time travel.
Bun’s Restaurant | Opened 1864
14 W Winter St, Delaware, OH 43015
This Delaware institution is prepared to celebrate their 160th anniversary this year, and we couldn’t think of a better time to highlight such a time-tested spot. Featuring a rustic wooden and brick interior, Bun’s firmly believes in taking time to appreciate the small things in life like a great meal and delicious drinks with friends and family. After all, their slogan is reminder how fleeting life is (and is also a precursor to YOLO), “We Live But Once.” Cherish every moment just as all of Bun’s patrons have done over the past 160 years.
Resch’s Bakery | Opened 1912
4061 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43227
Family owned for over a century, Resch’s is the go-to spot for the special occasion cake, baked goods, or just a delicious donut to start your day. Personally, Resch’s is firmly planted in my top 2 favorite donut spots of all time (and here’s a hint: it’s not number 2…)! Resch’s is truly a family affair. Even if it’s your first time visiting, you’ll feel like you’re a part of the Resch family. Their kindness combined with the cozy smells and delicious baked goods is sure to remind you of home.
The Old Mohawk | Opened 1933
819 Mohawk St, Columbus, OH 43206
Casual, cozy, and quaint, The Old Mohawk is another German Village institution that has survived the test of time and then some. Featuring an eclectic interior and delicious bites, as soon as you walk in the door, it’s quickly evident why this spot has been around for so long. The brick walls, subtle lighting, and old-fashioned interior design is all it takes for you to buy in. And if that doesn’t seal the deal (which it will), the food will certainly convert you.
Plank’s Cafe & Pizzeria | Opened 1939
743 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206
Rising out of the Prohibition Era, Plank’s has been family owned ever since its opening nearly 9 decades ago, and much like you can tell how old a tree is by counting its rings, a trip to Plank’s is like experiencing every single year since 1939. There are photographs of Ohio legends of yore and yesterday and so much memorabilia on the walls that you’ll be amazed they’ve even found enough room for it all. Plus, pizza doesn’t get more “Classic Columbus” than at Plank’s.
TAT Ristorante di Famiglia | Opened 1929
1210 S James Rd, Columbus, OH 43227
It’s not often that you see a business that opened the same year as Black Tuesday and, therefore, the first year of the Great Depression, still kicking and successful. That’s a true testament to TAT’s commitment to serving authentic Italian cuisine all these years. They even claim to have brought the first pizza to Columbus, so this spot is truly a historic landmark!
