Best Southern American Restaurants in Columbus

97 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Forno Kitchen and Bar restaurant

1. Forno Kitchen and Bar

4.7

Exceptional(2860)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Short North - Arena District

Booked 74 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Short North - Arena District of Columbus, Forno Kitchen and Bar is a gem celebrated for its authentic Italian cuisine and lively ambiance. Recognized as one of Forbes Top 100 Hottest Restaurants in America, Forno stands out with its custom stone-fire oven that perfectly crisps every pizza, creating flavors that are both unique and deeply rooted in Italian tradition. Patrons rave about the "outstanding food," from the "delicious pizza" to the "perfectly prepared" whipped ricotta and linguine & clams. The atmosphere is equally praised, described as "perfect for an energetic night out" yet "cozy" enough for a memorable dining experience. With an "amazing happy hour" and consistently "excellent service," Forno is a must-visit for anyone craving true Italian flair in Columbus.

A photo of The Guild House - Columbus restaurant

2. The Guild House - Columbus

4.8

Exceptional(3873)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Columbus

Booked 54 times today

The Guild House in Columbus is a gem for those seeking the epitome of Contemporary American cuisine. This artisan eatery is not just about dining; it's an experience of creative culinary expressions, where "the food is always exquisite, and the service and ambiance is delightful." Using locally sourced ingredients, the chefs craft dishes that are both regionally inspired and globally influenced, ensuring every meal is a testament to their artistic prowess. Reviews consistently praise the "outstanding knowledge of the menu" and the "impeccable" service, with dishes like the truffled eggs and scallops receiving high accolades. Whether it's for a lively brunch or a relaxed dinner, The Guild House offers a sophisticated atmosphere where every dish served is a celebration of contemporary culinary artistry.

A photo of Cap City Fine Diner & Bar - Grandview restaurant

3. Cap City Fine Diner & Bar - Grandview

4.8

Exceptional(6922)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Grandview Heights

Booked 93 times today

Cap City Fine Diner & Bar in Grandview, Columbus, is a culinary haven for those in search of exceptional Comfort Food. With a menu that transforms familiar favorites into upscale delights, this diner offers an experience that’s both comforting and exciting. Patrons rave about the creative twists on classics like the meatloaf, and the desserts are a nostalgic trip with a modern flair. Reviewers consistently praise the attentive service and the quality of the meals, with comments like the food is "always consistent great" and the atmosphere "very warm and cozy." Whether it's the retro-cool desserts or the chef-driven dishes, Cap City ensures every dish is a showstopper, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for top-notch Comfort Food.

A photo of The Pearl - Short North restaurant

4. The Pearl - Short North

4.7

Exceptional(5865)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Short North - Arena District

Booked 40 times today

The Pearl - Short North, located in the vibrant Short North - Arena District of Columbus, epitomizes the essence of Contemporary American cuisine with its inventive menu and impeccable service. Praised for its "amazing food" including the best burgers and a standout seafood tower, The Pearl delivers a culinary experience that is both diverse and delicious. Reviewers rave about the "outstanding" service and the lively ambiance, highlighted by the cozy tavern setting with white exposed brick and hardwood floors. Patrons consistently laud dishes like the jalapeño spoon bread and the shrimp and grits, noting them as "very creamy" with "great sauce". With glowing reviews like "food was delicious and service was amazing," it's clear that The Pearl - Short North is a must-visit for anyone seeking top-tier Contemporary American dining in Columbus.

5. Lindey's

4.8

Exceptional(9060)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • German Village

Booked 83 times today

Lindey's has been consistently voted one of Columbus' top restaurants for the past 38 years, and has been featured in the Washington Post, USA Today, the New York Times, Gourmet Magazine, The BigTen Network and the book "As the Tables Turn" by Sue Doody & Michael Rosen. Lindey's is a high-energy, white tablecloth restaurant serving the finest American cuisine in an upper east side New York bistro setting. Nestled in historic German Village, the design incorporates original artwork, bentwood chairs, copper topped bars and hardwood floors. With its exciting and vibrant atmosphere, Lindey's has three main dining rooms, three private party rooms and an award winning outdoor courtyard that has been voted one of the top 100 patios in America by OpenTable.

A photo of SoCal Kitchen + Bar restaurant

6. SoCal Kitchen + Bar

4.7

Exceptional(2264)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Columbus

Booked 16 times today

SoCal Kitchen + Bar in Columbus stands out as a beacon of American cuisine with its California-inspired flair. Celebrated for its "good food, good vibes, and good times," this restaurant, under the guidance of Executive Chef Mike Fick, emphasizes farm-fresh ingredients and a vibrant seafood menu. Reviewers consistently praise its atmosphere and delectable dishes, saying, "The children of my children will dine here," highlighting its unforgettable impact. Whether it's the Curry Mussels or the Hawaiian Sushi Roll, each dish is crafted to perfection, making SoCal Kitchen + Bar a must-visit for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic American dining experience.

A photo of Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse-Downtown Columbus restaurant

7. Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse-Downtown Columbus

4.8

Exceptional(1998)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Short North - Arena District

Booked 38 times today

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse in the vibrant Short North - Arena District of Columbus not only excels with its prime steaks but also shines brightly with its seafood offerings. The restaurant's daily chef’s fresh fish features and great seafood are consistently praised by diners for their quality and presentation. Patrons rave about the seafood appetizers, describing them as "cooked to perfection," with special mentions of the "lobster escargot appetizer" being "Heaven in a dish." This award-winning establishment ensures each seafood dish is a testament to their commitment to excellence, making it a beloved destination for both seafood lovers and steak aficionados alike.

A photo of Hank's Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar restaurant

8. Hank's Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar

4.6

Exceptional(414)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Columbus

Booked 47 times today

Hank's Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar in Columbus is renowned for its exceptional Oyster Bar, offering a truly authentic experience that keeps guests coming back. Celebrated for its "fresh and tasty" seafood, Hank's stands out with its array of exquisite oysters, earning rave reviews for its "first rate" offerings. Guests have highlighted the Oyster stew and the East Coast Oyster sampler as must-try dishes, praising their incredible flavors and perfect presentation. With over 25 years of serving high-quality, fresh seafood, Hank's embodies the essence of Southern hospitality and culinary excellence. Whether it's for a casual meal or a special occasion, Hank's Oyster Bar is a top choice for aficionados seeking the best in Columbus.

A photo of The Capital Grille - Columbus restaurant

9. The Capital Grille - Columbus

4.7

Exceptional(110)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Columbus

Booked 35 times today

The Capital Grille in Columbus is a prime destination for steak enthusiasts, renowned for its expertly aged and skillfully hand-cut steaks. Celebrated for creating memorable dining experiences, this steakhouse ensures every steak—from the dry-aged New York strip to the American Wagyu—is cooked to perfection. As one diner raved, it's "possibly the best steak I have ever had." The attention to detail extends beyond the plate, with a service described as "outstanding" and an ambiance that elevates every visit. With a robust wine list and a commitment to excellence, The Capital Grille stands out as a top culinary jewel in Columbus. Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful meal, this steakhouse promises an exceptional experience.

A photo of Hudson 29 - Upper Arlington restaurant

10. Hudson 29 - Upper Arlington

4.8

Exceptional(4425)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Upper Arlington

Booked 58 times today

Hudson 29 in Upper Arlington is a gem for those seeking top-notch Contemporary American cuisine. Drawing inspiration from both the Hudson River Valley and Napa Valley, the restaurant offers a menu that dazzles with familiar favorites reimagined with the finest ingredients. Guests consistently rave about the "outstanding food and service" and the "incredible cocktails," making every dining experience memorable. Whether celebrating a birthday or simply enjoying a casual meal, diners are treated to a culinary journey that highlights the best of American dining. The glowing reviews, like "Always a great experience! Food is always delicious," encapsulate why Hudson 29 is a beloved destination for food enthusiasts.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Best Southern American Restaurants in Columbus

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97 restaurants available nearby

1. Forno Kitchen and Bar

2. The Guild House - Columbus

3. Cap City Fine Diner & Bar - Grandview

4. The Pearl - Short North

5. Lindey's

6. SoCal Kitchen + Bar

7. Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse-Downtown Columbus

8. Hank's Low Country Seafood & Raw Bar

9. The Capital Grille - Columbus

10. Hudson 29 - Upper Arlington

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