Are you searching for the best restaurants in Upper Arlington, Ohio? If yes, then you are in the right place.
Upper Arlington was fashioned as a planned town and named after Arlington County, Virginia, established in 1913. Since then, the city’s population has increased to over 34,000, and it now occupies a territory of about 10 square miles.
The city is the perfect spot for those who work in the city but want a quieter suburban lifestyle due to its central location inside the Columbus metropolitan area. Upper Arlington’s strong feeling of community is one of its most distinguishing characteristics.
A bustling Parks and Recreation Department in the city provides a range of activities and programs for locals of all ages. Fancyburg Park, Northam Park, and Thompson Park, all of which feature many open spaces and recreational amenities, are just a few well-known attractions.
The restaurants in the town are also something of note as they offer amazing dining experiences to both visitors and locals.
This guide has collected the best places to eat in Upper Arlington, Ohio. Here are the top restaurants in Upper Arlington, Ohio.
Best Restaurants in Upper Arlington
1. Mozart’s
First on this list of the best restaurants in Upper Arlington, Ohio, is Mozart’s.
The bakery was established in 1995 by Anand and Doris Saha, and ever since, it has been a mainstay of the Upper Arlington neighborhood. The Sahas are fervent bakers who take great care to ensure that their goods contain only the best ingredients.
Beautiful artwork decorates the establishment’s interior, and regional musicians frequently perform live. Customers can utilize the free Wi-Fi, which makes it a popular location for studying or working from home.
The restaurant highlights fast service, great coffee and beer selection, an impressive wine list, live performances, and music.
Customers adore the freshly prepared daily croissants, scones, and muffins. Various slices of bread, cakes, and cookies are also available at the bakery, all produced from scratch using time-honored methods.
Mozart’s welcomes all patrons on Thursdays and Fridays from 10:00 am-5:00 pm and on Saturdays from 9:00 am-5:00 pm.
Address: 4784 N High St, Columbus, OH 43214-1554. Phone: +1 614-268-3687.
2. Lavash Café
Ohio’s lovely suburb of Upper Arlington has a well-known Mediterranean eatery called Lavash Café. It has gained popularity among locals and tourists for its delectable cuisine and welcoming ambiance.
The outdoor seating area of Lavash Café is one of its most distinctive characteristics. It is ideal for dinner in warmer months because it has many seats and lovely greenery. Additionally, the café provides catering, which is a fantastic choice for meetings and occasions.
The offerings at the restaurant include halal food, coffee, comfort food, healthy options, small plates, quick bites, and vegetarian options.
The falafel, hummus, baba ganoush appetizers, chicken shawarma, beef kebab, and lamb chops entrees are some of the most well-liked dishes on the menu.
Visit Lavash Café on Sundays from 11:00 am-8:00 pm, Mondays to Thursdays from 11:00 am-9:00 pm, and Fridays to Saturdays from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.
Address: 2985 N High St # 43202, Columbus, OH 43202-1103. Phone: +1 614-263-7777.
3. The Refectory Restaurant
The restaurant is in a stunning church from the 19th century transformed into a cozy dining area. The spectacular stained glass windows and soaring ceilings provide a distinctive and exquisite atmosphere for special events or private dinners.
The Refectory is known for its outstanding cuisine and extensive wine list, which features over 700 options. The restaurant’s trained sommeliers are always available to assist customers in choosing the ideal wine pairing for their meals.
The Private Wine Room, which seats up to 16, is a popular option for smaller, more private meetings. The Grand Room can hold up to 60 guests for more significant occasions.
Enjoy popular meals such as duck breast, escargot, quail terrine, cheese plate, pear tart, roasted lamb chops, mussel soup, scallops, and lobster ravioli.
The Refectory Restaurant opens on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5:15 pm-10:00 pm, Fridays and Saturdays from 4:45 pm-11:00 pm.
Address: 1092 Bethel Rd, Columbus, OH 43220-2610. Phone: +1 614-451-9774.
4. Z Cucina di Spirito
The restaurant’s name, Z Cucina di Spirito, translates to “Z Kitchen of the Spirit,” which expresses its dedication to using only the finest, most recent ingredients in all its dishes.
The restaurant’s sophisticated and elegant environment and cozy atmosphere are ideal for a romantic supper or a night out with friends.
The menu offers classic Italian meals and cutting-edge cuisine that will delight the palate, from appetizers to entrées. The establishment is renowned for its comprehensive wine list, which provides a variety of wines from Italy and other countries.
Enjoy delectable meals such as chocolate mousse, tiramisu, lasagna bolognese, rib eye, braised lamb, vanilla cheesecake, seared sea scallops, mussels, and smoked chicken ravioli.
The establishment opens Mondays to Thursdays from 5:00 pm-9:00 pm and Fridays to Saturdays from 5:00 pm-10:00 pm.
Address: 1368 Grandview Ave, Columbus, OH 43212-2803. Phone: +1 614-486-9200.
5. Hudson 29
The Hudson River Valley, noted for its stunning scenery, the illustrious Route 29 that passes through it, and the region’s rich culinary traditions, are the inspirations for the restaurant’s name.
The ambiance is warm and inviting, with cozy seating and subdued lighting that fosters a calm and private atmosphere. The restaurant also has a lovely patio outside that is ideal for dining al fresco during the summer or on a moonlit night.
Service options include outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, contact, no-contact delivery, takeaway, And dine-in.
The Hudson Burger is produced with grass-fed beef and topped with caramelized onions, bacon, and Gouda cheese, and the grilled Atlantic salmon with roasted veggies and a lemon-dill sauce are both popular choices on the menu.
The restaurant opens on Sundays from 11:00 am-9:00 pm, Mondays to Thursdays from 11:30 am-9:00 pm, Fridays from 11:30 am-10:00 pm, and Saturdays from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.
Address: 1600 W Lane Ave, Upper Arlington, OH 43221. Phone: +1 614-487-0622.
6. City Barbeque
City Barbecue is renowned for its mouthwatering BBQ dishes, prepared with top-notch ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Families, friends, and coworkers can congregate in the restaurant’s warm, laid-back setting to share some delectable fare.
The establishment prides itself on using only premium ingredients, one of its best qualities. Local farmers that rear their animals correctly and without using hormones or antibiotics are the source of the meat.
Wooden tables and benches, exposed brick walls, and tall ceilings are all the restaurant’s rustic interior style features.
A variety of sides are also available at City Barbeque in addition to the main courses, including mac & cheese, cornbread, green beans, and coleslaw, to mention a few.
Visit the establishment on Sundays from 11:00 am-8:00 pm, Mondays to Thursdays from 11:00 am-9:00 pm, and Fridays and Saturdays from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.
Address: 2111 Henderson Rd, Columbus, OH 43220-7346. Phone: +1 614-538-8890.
7. Akai Hana
This Upper Arlington eatery delivers authentic Japanese food in a welcoming and friendly setting. Over 20 years of operation, the restaurant has earned a loyal following among residents and tourists.
The restaurant features a calm ambiance with a traditional Japanese design that is pleasant and personal. Each guest has a memorable dining experience thanks to the attentive and cheerful personnel who go above and beyond.
Offerings include alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, healthy options, a kids’ menu, small plates, spirits, vegan options, and wine.
For those who want plant-based meals, they also provide vegetarian options on their menu. Chicken teriyaki, beef yakitori, and seafood udon soup are among Akai Hana’s most well-liked meals.
The restaurant welcomes customers on Sundays from 4:30 pm-9:00 pm, Mondays to Thursdays from 11:30 am-2:00 pm, 5:00 pm-9:00 pm, and Fridays to Saturdays from 11:30 pm-2:00 pm, and 5:00 pm-9:30 pm.
Address: 1173 Old Henderson Rd, Columbus, OH 43220-3607. Phone: +1 614-451-5411.
8. Gallo’s Kitchen & Bar
The Gallo family bought a grocery store in the 1950s and converted it into a pizzeria. The Gallo family loved Italian food and quickly developed a reputation for mouthwatering pizza and other Italian specialties.
Craft beers, wines, and cocktails are available in the roomy, energetic bar area. With companions, patrons can unwind with a refreshing drink while watching a game on one of the numerous flat-screen TVs positioned all across the bar.
Gallo’s Kitchen and Bar offers a wide variety of American food with a modern twist. Salads, sandwiches, pasta meals, and seafood dinners are all available on the menu, along with various other items.
Tempting burgers, crunch calamari, and flavorful chicken piccata are among Gallo’s Kitchen and Bar’s most well-liked menu items.
Gallo’s Kitchen & Bar is also among the best Upper Arlington restaurants, and it is open Mondays to Thursdays from 4:00 pm-12:00 am and Fridays to Saturdays from 4:00 pm-1:00 am.
Address: 2820 Nottingham Rd, Upper Arlington, OH 43221-1133. Phone: +1 614-754-8176.
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9. Fox in the Snow Café
Jeff Excell and Lauren Culley were employed in the coffee business when they decided to open their café in Upper Arlington, a neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio; they discovered the ideal site and started converting an old garage into their perfect restaurant.
The superb coffee at Fox in the Snow Café is one of its key draws. The coffee shop offers a selection of beverages made with premium beans that are expertly roasted and brewed.
Compostable cups and utensils, recycling, and composting initiatives are just a few of the environmentally friendly products and methods the café uses. Additionally, they lessen their environmental effect by obtaining their components from regional farmers and producers.
Popular options include the traditional bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich and the vegetarian breakfast sandwich with avocado, arugula, and roasted tomato. The seasonal quiches are crafted with locally acquired ingredients and come with mixed greens.
You are welcome to visit the restaurant on Sundays and Saturdays from 8:00 am-3:00 pm and Mondays to Fridays from 7:00 am-3:00 pm.
Address: 1031 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43201-3629. Phone: +1 614-826-0007.
10. Cap City Fine Diner and Bar
Since it opened its doors in 1996, Cap City has become one of the top Upper Arlington restaurants to visit for residents and tourists due to its elegant yet relaxed ambiance and outstanding American food.
The restaurant’s interior is classic diner style with red vinyl booths, a stainless steel bar, and vintage signs. The softly lighted setting creates a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for a date or a night out with friends.
Cap City also has a selection of seasonal specialties and a changing selection of specialty beers on tap in addition to its regular menu. A complete bar with a wide selection of wines and inventive cocktails is also available at the restaurant.
Cap City’s menu offers traditional American cuisine with a contemporary touch. While entrees like pot roast, meatloaf, and fried chicken are comfort food favorites, appetizers like the famed fried pickles and deviled eggs are ideal for sharing.
The diner receives patrons on Sundays from 11:00 am-9:00 pm, Mondays to Thursdays from 11:00 am-9:00 pm, Fridays from 11:30 am- 10:00 pm, and Saturdays from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.
Address: 1299 Olentangy River Rd, Columbus, OH 43212-3135. Phone: +1 614-291-3663.
11. El Vaquero Mexican Restaurant
This list of top restaurants in Upper Arlington, Ohio, would not be complete without adding l Vaquero Mexican Restaurant.
El Vaquero is an amazing restaurant that has been dishing up delectable food for over 20 years and is renowned for its authentic Mexican cuisine and fun atmosphere.
The walls are decorated with vibrant murals and traditional Mexican art, heightening the joyful atmosphere. The restaurant also has a sizable patio space, ideal for dining outside during the warmer months.
The staff is delighted to offer recommendations for customers unfamiliar with Mexican cuisine because they are informed about the menu.
Tacos, enchiladas, burritos, fajitas, and other traditional Mexican fare are all available on El Vaquero’s menu. The restaurant enjoys using only the best, freshest ingredients to make delectable, genuine cuisine.
Address: 3230 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43202. Phone: +1 614-261-0900.
12. Graeter’s Ice Cream
The business Louis Graeter founded in 1870 has been manufacturing ice cream by hand for more than 150 years. Today, Graeter’s is renowned for its superb, rich, and creamy ice cream and its dedication to using premium ingredients.
The ice cream at Graeter’s, prepared by the unique French pot method, entails freezing the ice cream in modest amounts in a rotating kettle. This method makes ice cream denser, creamier, and smoother than any other brand.
Service options include Kerbside pickup, contact, no-contact delivery, in-store pickup and shopping, takeaway, dine-in, and same-day delivery.
Graeter’s offers a variety of other sweet delicacies in addition to ice creams, such as sorbet, sherbet, and baked goods, including pies and cookies. Additionally, customers can buy pints or quarts of Graeter’s ice cream to enjoy at home.
The parlor is one of the best Upper Arlington restaurants, and it opens every day from 11:00 am-10:00 pm.
Address: 1534 W Lane Ave, Upper Arlington, OH 43221. Phone: +1 614-488-3222.
13. Houlihan’s
Located at 3150 Tremont Road, The Houlihan’s in Upper Arlington is conveniently reachable by both locals and guests.
With plenty of room inside for both small and big groups, the restaurant has a roomy and pleasant atmosphere. The sleek, contemporary décor includes cozy booths, tall tables, and a well-stocked bar area.
The restaurant’s bar section is another favorite hangout with an extensive range of beer, wine, and cocktails. Daily drink and food discounts are for happy hour specials during certain hours.
Starting their day off with traditional breakfast fares like pancakes, omelets, and eggs, Benedict is an option for guests, or they can choose something a little different, like avocado toast or chilaquiles.
The restaurant opens from Sundays through Saturdays from 11:00 am-9:00 pm. Feel free to add it to your list of the best places to eat in Upper Arlington, Ohio.
Address: 3150 Tremont Rd, Upper Arlington, OH 43221-2035. Phone: +1 614-326-2449.
14. Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse
Since 1988, the area’s steak aficionados have learned to rely on it as a top pick. The eatery is in a charming brick building with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It has elegant décor.
The steaks are hand-cut to order after being matured for at least 28 days on the best Midwest ranches. Every steak is prepared to perfection by the restaurant’s chefs, who utilize their advanced skills and knowledge to guarantee an adequately seared outer crust and a juicy and tasty inside.
A comprehensive wine list with more than 500 options from across the globe is also available at Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse in addition to the steaks.
The first course includes a selection of appetizers, including crispy calamari, lobster soup, and jumbo lump crab cakes.
The establishment opens Tuesdays to Thursdays from 4:30 pm-9:00 pm and Fridays to Saturdays from 4:30 pm-10:00 pm.
Address: 1615 Old Henderson Rd, Upper Arlington, OH 43220-3617. Phone: +1 614-442-3310.
15. The Wine Bistro
Finally on this list of best restaurants in Upper Arlington, Ohio, is The Wine Bistro.
The Wine Bistro in the city’s center provides a cozy and welcoming setting where customers can unwind and savor an incredible range of wines, drinks, and delectable cuisine.
Visitors are by the Wine Bistro’s exquisite and contemporary décor, which combines traditional features with modern architecture. Warm woods, brick walls, and stylish lighting add warmth and coziness to the room.
The Wine Bistro’s wine list, which offers more than 100 bottles of wine from across the globe and a selection of wine flights and by-the-glass choices, is undoubtedly the restaurant’s real selling point.
The entrée menu features a variety of delectable meals, such as pan-seared fish, steak frites, and duck confit, while the small plates menu features classics like truffle fries, crispy Brussels sprouts, and flatbreads.
The Wine Bistro opens on Sundays from 12:00 pm-8:00 pm, Mondays to Thursdays from 11:00 pm-9:00 pm, and Fridays to Saturdays from 11:00 pm-10:00 pm.
Address: 1750 W Lane Ave Across from The Shops on Lane Ave., Upper Arlington, OH 43221-1170. Phone: +1 614-485-1750.
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Plan a Trip to Upper Arlington
Upper Arlington is a lovely and flourishing neighborhood that provides its citizens with a high standard of living. It’s a fantastic area to live, work, and raise a family because of its strong sense of community, top-notch schools, and thriving local economy.
The city is an excellent vacation spot for anyone seeking a blend of urban conveniences, culture, and biological activity. It also has amazing restaurants that offer memorable dining experiences.
What are you waiting for? Plan a visit to Upper Arlington today!