Best Upscale Carnivore Restaurants in Columbus | Upscale & Carnivore

25 restaurants in Best Upscale Carnivore Restaurants in Columbus | Upscale & Carnivore

• Nocterra Brewing Co — American · rated 5/5: Nocterra Brewing Co. captures the spirit of a modern woodland retreat, where the hum of lively conversation mingles with the clink of craft pints in a space designed for social discovery. The kitchen elevates the taproom experience with an eclectic array of globally-inspired bites, from the crunch of golden yuca chips and savory potato croquettes to the chewy, spicy heat of Korean rice cakes. It is a vibrant gathering spot where earthy forager flatbreads and smoky wings anchor a menu built for sharing and adventure.
• Lincoln Social Rooftop — American · rated 4/5: Perched high above the city, this vibrant rooftop oasis pulses with urban energy, offering panoramic skyline views that pair perfectly with the crisp saltiness of fresh oysters and chilled jumbo shrimp. The kitchen artfully balances the cool precision of hand-crafted sushi rolls with the comforting warmth of artisanal pizzas, creating a sophisticated yet spirited social hub where every sunset feels like a celebration.
• Gemüt Biergarten — American · rated 4/5: Gemüt Biergarten captures the spirited essence of a sun-drenched Bavarian courtyard, where the rhythmic clink of heavy glass steins mingles with the savory aroma of golden-brown pretzels and snapping sausages. Guests gather around communal tables to feast on crispy Jager Schnitzel and tangy sauerkraut balls, finding a warm, lively sanctuary that celebrates the timeless joy of hearty fare and shared laughter.
• Seitan's Realm — American · rated 4/5: A high-octane sanctuary for plant-based indulgence, this edgy eatery captures a rebellious spirit through a menu of unapologetic, soul-satisfying comfort food. Golden-fried treasures like crispy pickles and gooey mozzahella sticks set the stage for towering "chikun" sandwiches and savory pepperoni rolls, creating a decadent experience where bold flavors and a rock-and-roll atmosphere collide.
• Bareburger — American: Sunlight dances across reclaimed wood and industrial accents in this vibrant eatery, where the sizzle of the grill heralds a menu of adventurous, ethically sourced proteins. The kitchen elevates the humble burger into a gourmet art form, layering buttery Wagyu, earthy elk, and sweet bison with bold, artisanal toppings that range from truffle-infused decadence to spicy, wild-caught flair. It is a conscious culinary playground where the familiar comfort of an American classic meets the sophisticated thrill of the wild.
• Sloopy's Diner — American: Step into a nostalgic haven where the hum of a busy griddle and the gleam of polished chrome create a timeless backdrop for classic comfort. Guests gather over the signature Sloopy’s Diner Meal, a hearty celebration of traditional flavors that pairs perfectly with the bold, aromatic punch of their house Espress-OH coffee. It is a vibrant neighborhood staple where the clinking of mugs and the warmth of genuine hospitality turn every visit into a soulful, satisfying retreat.
• CFAES Cafe — American: This sun-drenched retreat greets visitors with the irresistible perfume of warm yeast and caramelized sugar wafting from the ovens. Glass cases overflow with a vibrant mosaic of golden, flaky danishes, pillowy cinnamon rolls dripping with glaze, and decadent fudge brownies that offer a rich, melt-in-your-mouth escape. Whether grabbing a crumbly, fruit-studded scone for a morning boost or lingering over a soft, hand-decorated cupcake, every bite serves as a comforting celebration of classic bakery craftsmanship.
• Ray Ray's Hog Pit — American: The scent of hickory smoke hangs heavy in the air at this soulful barbecue destination, where the low-and-slow tradition is elevated to a culinary art form. From the glistening, spice-rubbed St. Louis spare ribs to the tender pull of a Carolina-style pork sandwich, every dish delivers a deep, wood-fired depth that honors the heritage of the pit. Whether you’re tearing into crispy smoked wings or savoring the charred sweetness of cauliflower burnt ends, the experience is a messy, heartfelt tribute to authentic smokehouse culture.
• The O On Lane — American: The O On Lane hums with the vibrant energy of a local favorite, where the golden glow of the bar and the lively chatter of friends create an inviting backdrop for an evening of indulgence. Crispy, golden-fried treasures take center stage, from the satisfying crunch of deep-fried ravioli and zesty buffalo shrimp to decadent, cheese-laden nachos designed for communal snacking. Every bite celebrates the soulful joy of elevated comfort food, offering a spirited atmosphere where shared platters and savory bites turn a simple night out into a festive occasion.
• Village Coney — American: This nostalgic neighborhood staple hums with the comforting sizzle of the flat-top grill and the savory, spiced aroma of slow-simmered chili. Guests find solace in unpretentious classics, from snap-casing Coney dogs and golden-brown fried bologna sandwiches to hearty bowls of ham and bean soup that feel like a warm embrace on a crisp afternoon.
• Marcella's Ristorante — Italian: Marcella’s Ristorante captures the spirited energy of a modern Italian gathering, where the air is perfumed with the savory aroma of roasted garlic and slow-braised veal meatballs. Friends linger over shared plates of velvety burrata and golden, crisp arancini, savoring a vibrant tapestry of flavors that ranges from the delicate silkiness of beef carpaccio to the indulgent, salty pull of melted pecorino cheese.
• The Walrus — Seafood: The Walrus pulses with a vibrant, high-energy spirit, inviting guests into a space where the scent of sizzling candied bacon and golden-fried chicken sets the stage for an indulgent morning feast. Playful, over-the-top creations like syrup-drenched French toast and the bold "Britney Bitch" sandwich reimagine comfort food with a cheeky flair, turning every meal into a spirited celebration of decadence. From hearty country fried steaks to crisp Belgian waffles, the kitchen delivers a soulful, flavor-packed experience that makes every brunch feel like a special occasion.
• El Vaquero — Mexican: El Vaquero invites guests into a lively, spirited atmosphere where the rhythmic crunch of golden chips meets the indulgent pull of bubbling, shrimp-studded queso fundido. Tables overflow with vibrant shared plates, from crisp avocado rollitos to towering piles of nachos layered with savory chorizo and melted cheese. It is a destination built for celebration, where bold spices and communal dining create a festive experience that captures the soulful, social heart of Mexican-inspired cuisine.
• NE Chinese — Chinese: This vibrant eatery captures the bold, rustic spirit of Northeastern China, where the air hums with energy and the sharp, inviting aroma of black vinegar and toasted chili oil. Diners dive into a kaleidoscope of textures, from the refreshing snap of chilled seaweed and enoki mushrooms to the addictive, silken chew of hot and sour sweet potato noodles drenched in punchy, numbing sauces. Every plate celebrates the bright, savory flavors of traditional Dongbei soul food, offering a communal feast that is as invigorating as it is authentic.
• Sí Señor! Peruvian Sandwiches — Peruvian: Vibrant aromas of cilantro and lime fill the air at Sí Señor!, a lively destination where the bold, sun-drenched flavors of Peru are tucked between crusty bread and tossed into refreshing, fruit-kissed salads. From the spicy kick of chipotle chicken to the creamy richness of fresh avocado, each hand-crafted sandwich and vibrant green bowl offers a zesty escape that turns a quick lunch into a spirited celebration of Latin culinary tradition.
• Kooma Sushi — Japanese: Vibrant energy meets culinary artistry at this modern haven, where the delicate sweetness of mango-topped scallops and the savory char of grilled negima create a symphony of contemporary Japanese flavors. Guests are invited to linger over a colorful parade of textures, from the light, golden crunch of vegetable tempura to the silky comfort of agedashi tofu and steamed ebi shumai. Every plate arrives as a masterfully crafted celebration of taste, offering a sophisticated yet welcoming escape that delights the senses with every bite.
• Yoshi — Japanese: Yoshi invites diners into a vibrant sanctuary of Japanese-inspired flavors, where the rhythmic chop of the sushi bar sets the stage for a parade of artfully plated rolls. From the buttery melt of spicy tuna to the satisfying snap of golden tempura shrimp, each creation balances delicate textures and bold zests to deliver a fresh, spirited take on contemporary sushi culture.
• Frenchi's Deli — American: This bustling neighborhood staple invites guests into a world of timeless deli tradition, where the savory perfume of slow-simmered corned beef and spiced pastrami fills the air. Masterfully stacked sandwiches take center stage, from the melty, kraut-topped richness of a classic Reuben to towering piles of tender roast beef and smoked turkey that promise a satisfying, soul-warming bite every time.
• Zundo Ramen & Donburi — Japanese: Stepping into this lively sanctuary of Japanese comfort food, guests are greeted by the irresistible scent of sizzling kurobuta pork and the gentle steam rising from baskets of delicate jumbo shumai. The kitchen masterfully balances crunch and tenderness, serving up everything from golden, crispy soft shell crab to pillowy chashu buns that melt away with every savory bite. It is an intimate, high-energy space where the art of the fry meets the soul of the simmer, creating a dining experience that feels both deeply traditional and vibrantly modern.
• Agave & Rye — Mexican: Agave & Rye pulses with a vibrant, high-octane energy where bold street art and an edgy, urban aesthetic set the stage for a culinary adventure that defies convention. The kitchen turns out audacious, "epic" creations like golden Mac n Cheese donuts and savory Quesa-Birria Irish nachos, blending comfort food classics with a rebellious, gourmet flair that pairs perfectly with a spirited atmosphere. It is a destination built for indulgence, where the clink of craft cocktails meets a playful, boundary-breaking menu designed to surprise and satisfy the senses.
• Bravo — Italian: Sun-drenched flavors and the irresistible aroma of bubbling cheese define this vibrant gathering spot, where guests share golden-brown mozzarella ravioli and tender meatballs dolloped with cool, creamy ricotta. From the crisp snap of artisan flatbreads to the comforting warmth of traditional wedding soup, every dish celebrates a spirited approach to Italian-inspired dining that turns a simple meal into a festive occasion.
• Press Grill — American: Step into a vibrant neighborhood haunt where the golden glow of perfectly crisped appetizers and the savory steam of house-made soups set the stage for a relaxed, convivial meal. The kitchen turns out elevated comfort classics, from zesty buffalo shrimp and loaded cottage fries to crisp, chilled wedge salads that offer a refreshing counterpoint to the bold, spicy flavors of their signature wings. Whether you are sharing a plate of hand-breaded onion rings or tucking into a hearty bowl of soup, every dish captures the soulful, unpretentious spirit of a true local favorite.
• Hubbard Bar and Grille — American: Hubbard Bar and Grille pulses with a vibrant, social energy, where the aroma of golden jalapeño cornbread and the sizzle of sweet and spicy calamari invite guests into a lively, modern space. The kitchen masterfully balances rustic comfort with refined flair, pairing tender short ribs and succulent shrimp with crisp, charred Brussels sprouts that anchor an evening of shared plates and spirited conversation. From the delicate chill of tuna tartare to the nostalgic warmth of creamy tomato soup, every plate captures a spirit of approachable sophistication perfect for a night out on the town.
• Arch City Tavern — American: This vibrant urban haunt pulses with energy, where the rustic charm of exposed brick meets the enticing aroma of wood-fired pizzas topped with sweet fig and peppery arugula. The kitchen elevates classic tavern fare into a culinary celebration, offering indulgent bites like creamy lobster mac 'n cheese and tender lamb sliders that invite guests to linger over drinks in a sophisticated yet soulful atmosphere.
• Mid City Garage — American: Mid City Garage transforms an industrial-chic space into a vibrant neighborhood sanctuary where the savory aroma of toasted subs and bubbling garlic pizza puffs fills the air. The kitchen crafts elevated comfort classics, from zesty jalapeño poppers to crisp, garden-fresh chopped salads, all served in a high-energy atmosphere that captures the pulse of the city. It is a spirited retreat where bold, soulful flavors and a laid-back vibe come together for an effortlessly cool dining experience.