Best Restaurants in Columbus, Ohio
Flavor meets atmosphere at Lemongrass, LaScala, & The Happy Greek.
Mar 4, 2009
Columbus, Ohio has a vast array of little-known eateries that are sure to become instant favorites of all who try them. Here are four of Central Ohio’s best kept culinary secrets. They have been chosen based on their atmospheres, and of course, their delicious menu choices.
Lemongrass- The owners of this local treasure aptly describe their menu as “fusion cuisine.” Their success is closely tied to their ability to couple bold Asian flavors with the urban, artistic feel of the Short North.
The décor at Lemongrass is trimmed with brushed metal, hardwood floors, and exposed brick. The lighting is low, dramatic, and softly tinted to appear green and powdery in the most impeccably chosen areas. The art-deco dining room is home to several beautiful pieces of art that are the perfect conversation pieces for any couple or group.
The menu is as interesting as the four walls in which it's housed, with choices such as Caramelized Apple Trout, Spicy Zucchini Chicken, and Champagne Shitake Filets. Entrees range from $14 to $25.
Lemongrass is located near downtown at 641 N High St, Suite 103, Columbus, Ohio 43215. Call (614) 224-1414 for more information or visit them online at www.lemongrassfusion.com.
LaScala Italian Bistro- This Dublin-area restaurant gets its name from the wife of a 16th century Italian duke who had a love for the arts. In honor of him, LaScala Italian Bistro provides an atmosphere reminiscent of the Old World and all of its simple beauty.
LaScala’s dining area is complete with a piano bar and small dance floor. The dining room has no shortage of hiding places, with tables for two that invite lovers to come and hide in their low-lit areas.
They offer fine wine and fresh, authentic flavors, while providing a unique twist on a wide variety of well-known favorites. LaScala’s menu features such entrees as Pine Nut Crusted Grouper, Shrimp & Sea Scallops Parmigiana, Steak Toscana and homemade sausage. Prices range from $14 to $25.
LaScala is located in the suburb of Dublin, Ohio at 4199 West Dublin Granville Rd., 43017. Call (614) 889-9431 for more details.
M Restaurant & Bar- “Intimate,” “modern,” and “world-class” are just a few of the descriptions befitting this very romantic place. Upon entering M Restaurant & Bar (affectionately called “M” by regulars), it is clear that visiting guests are in for a world-class dining experience.
M’s dining room has a spacious floor plan that is separated by a mixture of white, almost sheer, floor-to-ceiling valences and several partitions made of brushed silver and crystal. Each section’s mood is determined by a delicately-applied color lighting treatment. The atmosphere is perfect for a first date… or for a one-hundred-and-first date.
M Restaurant and Bar's menu has been designed with the sophisticated taste bud in mind. It offers such choices as Truffle Macaroni and Cheese, Duck Confit with Wild Mushroom Risotto, and Spicy Scallop Sushi. Entrees begin at $23.
Visit M Restaurant & Bar's at 2 Miranova Place, Suite 100, Columbus, Ohio 43215. Call (614) 629-0000 for more details, or visit "M" on the web at http://www.matmiranova.com/.
The Happy Greek (Short North)- Don’t be fooled by the storefront-styled exterior. The Happy Greek has mastered the art of traditional décor, and they've packed the inside of their Short North hotspot with as much beauty as it can hold.
This Mediterranean-inspired getaway is an endless hall of murals, intimately situated seating, and majestic lighting. The staff’s commitment to stellar service is evident from the moment they utter the words “follow me.” Patrons are led past the lighted display case of baklava and cheesecake to a private, hidden dining area. What appears uninteresting from outside the restaurant immediately proves itself to be modern, classy, and exciting.
The menu is packed with such choices as Grecian Seafood Pasta in homemade basil sauce, Spicy Lamb with Couscous, their delicious rendition of the Schwarma Platter, and the best hummus in Columbus. Entrees at the Happy Greek are priced at $8 to $20.
The Happy Greek is located at 1554 N High St, Columbus, Ohio 43201. Call (614) 291-7777 for more information or to place a takeout order.
Each of these eateries has its own flare, its own sense of historical pride, and its own fabulous menu. Take time to enjoy these amazing dining atmospheres and the wonderful food choices they have to offer. Bon Appétit!
