What to Eat in Columbus, Ohio?

Start with Columbus-style pizza: a thin-crust pie cut into squares with toppings spread right to the edge. For something sweet, grab Buckeyes, the peanut‑butter‑and‑chocolate candies Ohio is known for. If you want a sit‑down meal, classic German platters in German Village or Somali dishes on the North Side are dependable picks.

That local pizza style is thin, square‑cut, and loaded evenly so every bite has sauce, cheese, and toppings to the rim. It’s the hometown slice you’ll see across neighborhoods, and it travels well if you’re ordering for a crowd.

On the savory side, the historic German neighborhood just south of downtown is where you go for sausages, schnitzel, and big sides. Columbus also has a large Somali community, so you’ll find plenty of spots for tender stews, spiced rice plates, and crisp pastries, especially north of downtown.

For dessert, Buckeyes are the go‑to Ohio treat, and you’ll see that flavor show up beyond candy in cookies and ice cream, too. If you want to sample a few things fast, a downtown public market lets you pick from multiple local stalls under one roof.

If you’re choosing between a few options, scan a current menu or daily board before you head out, since offerings can change with the season.

Published: September 9, 2026 · Reviewed by the Whats Up Columbus editorial team