Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Columbus | Upscale Soul Food Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Soul Food Restaurants in Columbus | Upscale Soul Food Food

• Pokebap — Japanese · rated 5/5: Pokebap serves as a vibrant coastal escape where the clean, bright flavors of the Pacific meet the savory, soul-warming textures of Japanese street food. Guests can dive into signature bowls brimming with jewel-toned fish and garden-fresh toppings or indulge in the comforting crunch of golden gyoza and caramelized SPAM musubi. From the delicate warmth of miso soup to the fiery intensity of the Volcano roll, every bite offers a playful symphony of textures and bold, island-inspired flair.
• Hiro Ramen & Tea — Japanese · rated 5/5: Soft light glows over tables laden with pillowy pork belly buns and golden, crispy karaage, creating a lively sanctuary where the comforting steam of fresh ramen mingles with the delicate fragrance of specialty teas. From the savory crunch of takoyaki to the melt-in-your-mouth richness of cheesy pork belly fries, every bite offers a vibrant celebration of Japanese-inspired comfort food in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• Barley's Brewing Company — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant brewpub pulses with energy, where the gleam of copper kettles and the aroma of toasted malt create a welcoming sanctuary for craft beer enthusiasts. The kitchen elevates classic comfort food into artful pairings for their house-made ales, serving up robust, flavor-forward dishes that turn a casual pint into a rich, communal feast.
• Gaswerks — American · rated 4/5: This high-energy industrial hub pulses with urban vitality, where exposed brick and glowing neon lights set a spirited stage for social gatherings and game-day excitement. Guests gather around the expansive bar to toast with ice-cold craft brews and savor hearty, flavor-packed comfort food that fuels the room’s electric atmosphere. It is a quintessential neighborhood anchor where the clinking of glasses and the roar of the crowd create a timeless, high-octane dining experience.
• 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.
• Tortilla Street Food — Mexican · rated 4/5: The air at Tortilla Street Food hums with the vibrant energy of a sun-drenched marketplace, where the irresistible aroma of charred corn and spiced meats draws diners into a lively, casual escape. Hand-pressed tacos arrive bursting with bold, savory fillings, perfectly paired with the cooling indulgence of a creamy, artisanal scoop of Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream for a sweet finish. It is a celebration of street-side simplicity, where every bite captures the soulful essence of fresh ingredients and festive flavors.
• Joey's Place — American · rated 4/5: Bathed in the warm glow of vintage neon and the hum of lively conversation, Joey's Place serves as a soulful neighborhood anchor where the scent of sizzling comfort food beckons from the street. Guests settle into well-worn booths to savor hearty, honest flavors that feel like a culinary embrace, creating a timeless atmosphere where every meal feels like a homecoming.
• Seoul Food — Korean · rated 4/5: Vibrant and soulful, this inviting space draws guests in with the irresistible aroma of caramelized meats and the spicy, fermented depth of traditional Korean spices. Diners lose themselves in a sensory journey of sizzling stone pots and colorful small plates, where every bite offers a harmonious balance of heat, crunch, and heart-warming comfort.
• Brothers Bar & Grill — American · rated 4/5: Brothers Bar & Grill pulses with the infectious energy of a classic neighborhood social hub, where the clinking of frosty pints and the savory aroma of flame-seared burgers set the stage for a lively night out. Polished wood accents and the warm glow of neon create an inviting backdrop for friends to gather over towering plates of golden, shareable comfort food while catching the big game on sprawling screens. It is a spirited destination where the hum of conversation and the thrill of the crowd transform every meal into a vibrant celebration of community and casual indulgence.
• Barrio — Mexican · rated 2/5: Barrio pulses with a vibrant neighborhood energy, where the smoky aroma of toasted chilies and slow-cooked meats invites guests into a lively, eclectic space. The kitchen masterfully bridges the gap between bold Mexican street food and soulful Southern comfort, serving up everything from zesty chilaquiles and creative, overstuffed tacos to velvety shrimp and grits. Every dish captures a playful, boundary-pushing spirit that transforms a casual meal into a spirited celebration of flavor.
• Piada Italian Street Food — Italian: Inspired by the sun-drenched street markets of Rimini, this vibrant eatery centers on the art of the stone-grilled piada, a delicate flatbread wrapped around a colorful array of artisanal ingredients. Guests navigate a bright, modern space where the sizzle of the grill and the fragrance of fresh basil accompany the creation of custom pasta bowls and crisp salads, offering a fast-paced yet soulful taste of Italy.
• The Rusty Bucket Restaurant & Tavern — American: Stepping into this spirited neighborhood hub feels like a warm embrace, where the aroma of sizzling comfort food mingles with the lively chatter of friends gathered around the polished wood bar. Whether you are tucked into a booth for a hearty family meal or catching the game with a frosty craft beer, the atmosphere pulses with a genuine hospitality that transforms classic American fare into a communal celebration.
• Skillet - Rustic. Urban. Food — American: This vibrant eatery blends industrial-chic design with the soulful warmth of a country kitchen, where the clatter of cast iron and the scent of sizzling butter fill the air. Hearty, farm-inspired dishes take center stage, reimagining classic comfort food with a sophisticated city edge that turns every meal into a nostalgic yet modern feast.
• ['plas] - Food and Drink — American: ['plas] invites diners into a sophisticated yet soulful space where seasonal artistry takes center stage, blending rustic harvest flavors with refined culinary technique. The kitchen transforms earthy ingredients like roasted pumpkin and beets into vibrant compositions, while bold plates of Moroccan-braised lamb and duck confit croquettes offer a rich, globally-inspired journey for the palate. Whether sharing an artisanal charcuterie board or savoring a perfectly seared prime strip, guests find themselves immersed in a dining experience that feels both intimately familiar and daringly modern.
• Gordon Biersch — American: Gleaming copper brewing tanks serve as the centerpiece of this vibrant gastropub, where the crisp snap of authentic German-style lagers meets the savory allure of elevated American comfort food. The air is filled with the irresistible scent of signature garlic fries and sizzling grills, creating a spirited atmosphere where friends gather around polished wood tables for a sophisticated yet soulful brewery experience.
• Gallo's On High — Italian: Gallo’s On High pulses with the inviting energy of a modern neighborhood haunt, where the savory aroma of slow-simmered meatballs and golden-crisped calamari drifts through a lively, welcoming space. The kitchen elevates soulful comfort food into an art form, pairing delicate pan-seared crab cakes and creamy burrata with hearty, sauce-drenched hoagies and signature brined wings. It is a destination where elevated tavern fare meets a spirited atmosphere, creating a dining experience that feels both indulgent and effortlessly familiar.
• Oh Pizza and Wings — Italian: The air here is thick with the savory perfume of bubbling mozzarella and the tantalizing sizzle of wings tossed in vibrant, glossy sauces. This energetic spot invites diners to roll up their sleeves and indulge in hand-stretched pizzas with perfectly charred crusts alongside heaps of crispy, succulent chicken. It is a quintessential neighborhood retreat where the clinking of glasses and the shared joy of comfort food create a warm, unpretentious atmosphere for every craving.
• Fukuryu Ramen — Japanese: Steam swirls above deep ceramic bowls in this high-energy ramen shop, where the intoxicating aroma of slow-simmered broth and toasted garlic fills the air. Silky noodles are submerged in velvety, umami-rich soups topped with tender chashu and vibrant aromatics, offering a comforting yet bold exploration of Japanese street food culture in a sleek, modern setting.
• McAlister's Deli — American: This bright and bustling neighborhood hub radiates Southern hospitality, welcoming guests with the comforting aroma of toasted deli classics and the refreshing clink of ice in their signature oversized sweet teas. Towering club sandwiches and massive, steam-filled baked potatoes loaded with savory toppings offer a hearty sense of nostalgia, creating a relaxed space where families and friends gather for a familiar, soul-warming meal.
• 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.
• Dempsey's Food & Spirits — American: Dempsey’s Food & Spirits welcomes guests into a convivial, wood-accented space where the low hum of conversation and the rhythmic clink of glassware create an instantly familiar neighborhood charm. Hearty, soul-warming plates emerge from the kitchen to meet frosty pints and expertly poured spirits, offering a comforting refuge for those seeking honest flavors and a spirited atmosphere. Whether tucked into a cozy booth for a lingering meal or gathered around the bar for a celebratory toast, diners find a timeless sanctuary where every visit feels like a homecoming.
• Pecan Penny's — American: Step into a vibrant haven of Southern-inspired comfort where the smoky aroma of slow-cooked chicken mingles with the sweet, buttery scent of golden Belgian waffles. The kitchen turns out hearty, soulful fare ranging from towering nacho mountains to savory breakfast bowls, all punctuated by whimsical touches like their signature neon-hued Kool-Aid pickles. This lively gathering spot invites guests to settle in for a bold culinary adventure where classic comfort food meets a playful, modern spirit.
• Jade Bowl House — Chinese: Soft emerald accents and the inviting hum of a busy kitchen set the stage at Jade Bowl House, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of ginger, garlic, and toasted sesame. Guests gather around steaming, oversized bowls brimming with hand-pulled noodles and vibrant stir-fries, each dish a masterclass in balancing bold umami flavors with the crisp textures of garden-fresh vegetables. This neighborhood gem transforms simple ingredients into soulful Asian comfort food, offering a warm retreat where every bite feels like a celebrated tradition.
• 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.
• Food Street — Indian: This bustling destination pulses with the energy of a global night market, where the savory aroma of flame-seared beef mingles with the intoxicating scent of traditional spices. Guests can indulge in towering, juice-dripping burgers crowned with earthy mushrooms or fiery jalapenos, or opt for the delicate crunch of golden paratha rolls stuffed with succulent, cream-marinated malai boti. It is a vibrant celebration of handheld comfort, where every bite offers a harmonious collision of textures and bold, cross-cultural flavors.
• Al Manakeesh — Middle Eastern: The air is thick with the intoxicating scent of toasted za'atar and warm, yeasty dough as golden flatbreads emerge bubbling and charred from the traditional oven. This vibrant neighborhood hub invites guests to tear into soft, pillowy manakeesh topped with molten akkawi cheese or savory spiced meats, capturing the soulful essence of Levantine street food. A steaming glass of fresh mint tea completes the experience, offering a warm sanctuary where ancient culinary traditions are celebrated in every hand-stretched bite.
• Hang Over Easy — American: Sunlight streams through the windows of this high-energy brunch haunt, where the sizzle of the griddle and the clink of mimosa glasses create a lively morning symphony. Guests find sanctuary in plates of indulgent comfort food, from golden-yolked eggs to syrup-drenched stacks, all served in a spirited atmosphere that turns a slow morning into a celebratory affair.
• Taqueria Charritos Mexican Grill — Mexican: Sunlight streams into this vibrant neighborhood haunt, where the rhythmic sound of cleavers on chopping blocks and the sizzle of marinated meats on the plancha create a lively backdrop for authentic Mexican flavors. Warm, hand-pressed tortillas cradle tender carnitas and charred al pastor topped with zesty house-made salsas, offering a bright burst of spice and citrus in every bite. Whether grabbing a quick street-style snack at the counter or lingering over a plate of smoky enchiladas, guests find a soulful celebration of traditional street food culture.
• Bodega — Spanish: Bodega pulses with the energy of a beloved neighborhood crossroads, where the comforting aroma of sizzling griddles and golden-fried delights draws a lively crowd into its welcoming embrace. The kitchen transforms soulful staples into indulgent masterpieces, serving up towering, juice-dripping burgers alongside gooey, artisanal grilled cheese and vibrant gourmet tacos that burst with fresh, bold flavors. It is a spirited destination where every plate—from the satisfying crunch of beer-battered fish to zesty, spice-dusted wings—celebrates the unpretentious joy of elevated comfort food.
• Las Margaritas — Mexican: Vibrant colors and the rhythmic shake of salt-rimmed cocktails define this lively escape, where the air is thick with the savory scent of charred chiles and slow-simmered carnitas. Guests gather around sun-drenched tables to share overflowing platters of hand-pressed tortillas and zesty salsas, capturing the bold, festive spirit of traditional Mexican soul food in every bite.