NEW COLUMBUS RESTAURANTS TO TRY IN 2021

One of the biggest perks of living in the Columbus area is the ever-growing list of top-notch restaurants that call our city home. Let 2021 be a year of new experiences by visiting these new Columbus restaurants.
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CAFE ELENA

In April 2020, Cafe Elena bravely opened its doors to offer its healthy international flavors to Columbus. This restaurant specializes in brunch, lunch, and baked goods. If you visit in the morning, try the British-inspired breakfast platter, the Super-Charged Netherland, or the Russian Grandma buckwheat porridge. Cafe Elena’s lunch options consist of a few curated and well-made sandwiches and burgers, such as the Bacon Jam Burger. You’ll also find bowl entrees, salads, crepes, and more handcrafted baked goods than you can handle at this quaint mom- and daughter-owned shop.

CHAPMAN’S EAT MARKET

If you’re searching for fantastic chef-inspired fare, head to Chapman’s Eat Market in the German Village. This anticipated restaurant opened in April of 2020 and should be at the top of your to-do list if you’re looking for a new restaurant to try in 2021. Chapman’s menu of interesting sandwiches and entrees makes it the perfect lunchtime spot to enjoy with friends. Start with an appetizer of vegan Smashed Cucumbers before moving onto lamb shank barbacoa or the instantly famous Chapman’s Double Burger. Remember to take home a pint of handmade ice cream — we suggest the Cafe Au Lait.

DEL MAR SOCAL KITCHEN

Lovers of seafood will feel at home at the Del Mar SoCal Kitchen. The fresh ingredients the chefs use to create Del Mar’s entrees make this one of the most memorable new dining experiences the Columbus area has to offer. Share a plate of oysters on a half shell before moving onto your favorite seafood entree. You’ll have the choice between swordfish, halibut, Fisherman’s Stew, and much more.

OLIVE & THYME

Olive & Thyme is the perfect destination for fans of traditional Mediterranean cuisine. On this restaurant’s menu, you’ll find everything from Lebanese moussaka and kebabs to shawarma and brick-oven fatayer. All ingredients at this restaurant are registered halal and there are plenty of vegetarian options to choose from. Olive & Thyme opened its doors in Clintonville in November of 2020.

THE ROYCE

The Royce’s elegant dining area lends itself well to its gastropub offerings. Order your favorite mixologist-inspired cocktail to pair with the entree item that sounds up your alley. Split a starter of Drunken Mussels or Guajillo Glazed Pork Belly with your party. If you’re here for lunch, try the Chicken Pot Pie sandwich or the classic Cubano. The Royce also offers steakhouse options made to your liking, like pan-seared salmon, bone-in rib-eye, roasted chicken, and more. If it’s an interesting new multisensory dining experience you’re looking for, you’ll find it at The Royce.

Whether you’re looking for a tried-and-true lunch made exceptionally well or a delicious entree you’ve never tried before, these restaurants have you covered. Keep an eye out for new additions to the Columbus food scene throughout 2021 and let us know what you find.