Valentine’s Day is almost upon us and there is no shortage of fine dining options to enjoy in Columbus, Ohio. Whether you are a casual couple or a pair who likes to enjoy the finer things in life, there is a restaurant for you in this guide. End your Valentine’s Day with a romantic dinner for two in the city!
Mitchell’s Steakhouse
One of the finest restaurants in Columbus, Mitchell’s is famous for steak. They have an extensive wine list of over 200 wines which go perfectly with their aged prime steaks. Offerings such as roast chicken, filet mignon, lobster tail, salmon, lamb chops, and Chilean sea bass can be found on their prix-fixe menu. Divine desserts should follow your meal, as Mitchell’s has a lava cake that is to die for. There are two locations in the Columbus area: Polaris Parkway and Third Street in Downtown Columbus. The dress code is semi-formal; jackets required for men. To make reservations, please call 1-614-621-2333.
Lindey’s
Being voted as one of Columbus’ Top Ten Restaurants for more than 18 years in a row is a distinction that is awarded to few establishments, but Lindey’s has done it again! With a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of a New York City eatery, Lindey’s offers exciting American cuisine in a theatre-like environment. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily, and offers a brunch on Saturday and Sunday mornings. It houses three dining rooms, a lovely terrace and a courtyard perfect for a romantic evening meal. Valet parking is available, and is the only parking option, as Lindey’s is located on 169 E. Beck Street in Columbus. To make reservations, please call 1-614-228-4343.
Cap City Fine Diner & Bar
If a light, fun experience is what you seek, the Cap City Fine Diner & Bar is for you. Serving up classic American diner favorites jazzed up for the 21st century, this is a dining event you don’t want to miss. Menu selections include: Chicken & Apple Meatloaf Melt (which I have had the pleasure of trying and it is excellent, Flat Iron Pot Roast, and Bananas Foster Bread Pudding. The menu is not over-priced, with the average Blue Plate entree going for $11.00. The environment is fun, yet classy. There are two locations, Gahanna and Grandview. To make reservations, visit www.capcityfinediner.com or call 1-614-478-999 (Gahanna) or 1-614-291-3663.
Barcelona
Barcelona Restaurant, located in historic German Village, is one of those restaurants that you visit and immediately want to re-visit the next week. The cuisine is European with an urban twist. Chef Paul uses locally-made ingredients whenever possible, and both times I have been there, I was floored with the superb service. On Valentine’s Day, dinner is served with a side of music from Trista Hill. There are specials offered almost every day of the week. For example, Wednesday nights are marked by a 3-course paella dinner for $25.00. Tapas tastings are a frequent event at Barcelona. For reservations, please visit www.barcelonacolumbus.com/reservations or call 1-614-443-3699.
The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro
For those with more elegant tastes, you will find nirvana at The Refectory, located at 1092 Bethel Road in Columbus, Ohio. Tempting menu options include: Pumpkin Veloute, Lobster Timbale, Confit of Pheasant Leg, Ostrich ‘Me-Meurette’ ( which I have tried and it is a must-have), and desserts like Warm Pear Tart and Winter Fruit Compote. The menu is not over-priced, with even the most exquisite entrees not priced at more than $14.00. Special events are the norm at The Refectory, with jazz music being the theme for January. The Refectory is open for dinner from 5:30-9:30 p.m. on Monday thru Saturday nights. For reservations, visit www.therefectoryrestaurant.com or call 1-614-451-9774. The Refectory is a Zagat-recommended restaurant.
Columbus may be in Ohio, but that does not mean that it is lacking in gourmet cuisine. Grab your sweetheart and head to one of these fine establishments and celebrate your love in style!
