Want to support local restaurants? Curious about new openings or under-the-radar finds? Here are five restaurants I’m suggesting you try this month!
1. Mehak Indian Kitchen & Bar
Mehak Indian Kitchen & Bar opened this past fall on the city’s northeast side. Owner and chef Ravinder Sharma previously worked at the much-loved Aab India, and now he and his family craft a variety of North Indian dishes from scratch. “Mehak” means “aroma,” so each meal there is a feast for the senses.
Mehak Indian Kitchen & Bar
5720 Cleveland Ave.
Columbus, OH 43231
Learn more: You Need to Visit Mehak Indian Kitchen & Bar
2. FYR
Led by Argentinian chef Sebastian La Rocca, FYR at the new Hilton tower downtown uses live-fire cooking – meaning a kitchen centered around a wood or charcoal grill – to create a fascinating menu. You’ll find everything from wild mushroom pizzas to salmon ceviche to Amish chicken with Oaxacan mole. Don’t miss the great cocktails and wine list, too.
FYR
404 N. High St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Learn more: Sebastian La Rocca Brings FYR to the New Hilton Tower
3. The Peanut Shoppe
Okay, so maybe The Peanut Shoppe isn’t a fully fledged restaurant, but this long-running family owned shop (open since 1936!) deserves the attention. They just re-opened after a hiatus and are still surrounded by construction. Look for the neon Planters Peanuts sign at High and State streets downtown, then find your way in for fresh-roasted nuts, candies, tins of chocolates, and more.
The Peanut Shoppe
21 E. State St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Learn more: facebook.com/people/Peanut-Shoppe-Columbus/100063718805929
4. Mercury Diner
The Mercury Diner recently opened in the former Crest Parsons space. The modern diner with retro touches features breakfast and lunch, plus great coffee, desserts, cocktails, beer, and wine.
Mercury Diner
621 Parsons Ave.
Columbus, OH 43206
Learn more: Mercury Diner Lands in the Former Crest Parsons
5. Mjomii Dessert House
Finish the month with a little dessert! Mjomii joined Bethel Road this fall, serving house-roasted coffee and scratch-made desserts. Pronounced “myoh-mee,” the cafe draws on East Asian and European inspirations for its menu of tarts and cakes. But the real house specialty: macarons!
Mjomii
2650 Bethel Rd.
Columbus, OH 43220
Learn more: mjomii.com
Want to keep up with more dining, drink, travel, and other fun ideas? Follow me on Instagram at @breakfastwithnick, check out the news archives, search for travel inspiration, explore the breakfast map, or…
Mehak photo courtesy of instagram.com/mehakkitchen5720; Mjomii photo courtesy of facebook.com/mjomii
