Looking for the best eats near Ohio State?
Columbus is known to have an exceptional restaurant selection, boasting one of the Midwest’s top food cultures. The areas neighboring Ohio State are vibrant hubs filled with diverse dining options just a short walk from campus.
For students seeking top-notch eateries in Columbus, we’ve curated this article spotlighting nine of the best, student-approved restaurants near campus. From quick and casual dining options to sit-down establishments and late-night bites, we’ve got you covered.
Fast Casual
1. Donatos Pizza
Address: 2084 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 10-minute walk
Enjoy a beloved choice among OSU students, Donatos Pizza, an eatery committed to creating delicious pizzas, subs, wings and other beloved American dishes. Established by an OSU graduate in 1963, Donatos has remained a Columbus staple for numerous years. Renowned for its thin-crust pizzas “loaded Edge to Edge” with toppings, especially the generous 100+ slices of pepperoni on its large pepperoni pizza.
2. Rush Bowls
Address: 262a W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 2-minute walk
Rush Bowls is the perfect spot to grab a smoothie before you start your day. They combine natural fruits and vegetables, topped with organic granola, a hint of honey, and a selection of fresh fruits and toppings. Brimming with nutrients and entirely customizable, these bowls provide wholesome and tasty alternatives to typical fast-casual options.
3. Buckeye Donuts
Address: 1998 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 12-minute walk
Located at the center of The Ohio State University campus, Buckeye Donuts offers an extensive selection of freshly made donuts, steaming hot coffee, all-day breakfast options, handcrafted gyros, Greek salads and much more. They have the slogan of, “Open Always, Closed Never,” because they are open 24/7. Their diverse menu caters to both early risers and late-night cravings, making it ideal for your morning routine or a late-night snack.
Sit-Down Restaurants
1. Cazuelas Mexican Cantina
Address: 2321 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Distance from Rambler: 12-minute walk
Indulge in delicious Mexican cuisine at Cazuelas Grill in Columbus, Ohio. Their menu features an array of flavorful dishes such as enchiladas, fajitas, chimichangas, and more. Everything, including the mouthwatering Mucho Macho Burrito, is prepared fresh every day using top-notch ingredients. Join them for lunch or dinner, and don’t miss their delightful margaritas during happy hour.
2. Buffalo Wild Wings
Address: 2151 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 8-minute walk
Buffalo Wild Wings is the perfect restaurant to stop by if you are craving chicken wings in Ohio. They have an extensive menu of other classic American food that all college students adore. It’s the perfect joint to watch any sports game because they have multiple TVs throughout each restaurant. Grab your friends and head to Bdubs for refreshing beverages and delicious grub!
3. The O on Lane
Address: 352 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 5-minute walk
Standing on Lane Ave, The O on Lane is a cherished, family-operated eatery renowned for its wood-fired pizza. Its proximity to the campus makes it a favorite spot among students looking to share a meal with friends after a day of classes. Additionally, The O organizes extensive tailgating events in their parking lot before Ohio State Football Games, complete with live music to energize the crowd.
Late Night Eats
1. Insomnia Cookies
Address: 2209 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 9-minute walk
Indulge your sweet tooth at Insomnia Cookies on North High Street, where the aroma of freshly baked treats fills the air. Offering a delectable assortment of warm cookies, brownies and ice cream, Insomnia Cookies has become a delightful destination for those seeking a sugary pick-me-up. What makes this spot even sweeter are the late-night hours, perfect for your next midnight treat.
2. Savvy Sliders
Address: 2106 N High St, Columbus, OH 43210
Distance from Rambler: 9-minute walk
Savvy Sliders is gaining recognition for its use of fresh, never frozen all-beef sliders, hand-breaded chicken strips, and handcrafted milkshakes spun to perfection. Located on High Street, this chain is perfect for anyone craving something salty late at night. Recently opened at OSU, this establishment has gained popularity quickly.
3. Sicilia Fine Italian Specialities
Address: 22 Frambes Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Distance from Rambler: 10-minute walk
Enjoy a late-night slice of pizza at Sicilia Fine Italian Specialities in Columbus, where their menu centers around pies cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven with a rotating floor, ensuring a consistently delightful dining experience with each order. With a focus on quality ingredients, Sicilia’s promises pizza and finger food enthusiasts a taste of excellence in every bite.
We hope this article gives you some new ideas for your next weekend meal.
To learn about the places with the best deals, read our article on the 5 Best Spots for Happy Hour Near Ohio State.
For further information on the vibrant Columbus lifestyle or to learn more about living in the center of it all at Rambler Columbus, don’t hesitate to reach out to our leasing staff. We’re happy to help in any way we can!
