Moving to a new city comes with a long to-do list—finding the best coffee spots, discovering hidden gem restaurants, and knowing where to go for fresh flowers or fitness classes. As real estate professionals and a husband-and-wife team, we’ve helped countless clients settle into Columbus, and we love sharing our favorite local businesses that make this city feel like home.
With our young son, Griffin, in tow, we experience the best of both worlds—navigating family-friendly activitieswhile staying connected to the city’s ever-evolving social scene. Whether you're a new homeowner looking for the best contractors or just searching for your next favorite brunch spot, here’s a curated list of must-know businesses to check out when settling into Columbus, Ohio.
1. Fresh Finds: Farmers Markets & Specialty Grocers
Bridge Park Farmer’s Market
One of the best ways to experience Columbus is by supporting local farmers and makers. The Bridge Park Farmer’s Market in Dublin is a go-to for fresh produce, baked goods, and unique artisan finds. It’s a great spot to stock up on Ohio-grown ingredients while supporting small businesses.
📍 Bridge Park Farmer’s Market
The North Market
A Columbus staple, The North Market features everything from gourmet coffee to fresh seafood and international cuisine. It’s our favorite place to grab a quick bite, shop for specialty groceries, or introduce newcomers to the city’s vibrant food scene.
📍 The North Market
Littleton’s Market
For those nights when you want restaurant-quality ingredients at home, Littleton’s in Upper Arlington is our go-to. Whether we’re meeting clients for coffee or happy hour, or grabbing fresh ahi tuna or a perfectly cut filet, it’s always a win.
📍 Littleton’s Market
2. Our Favorite Restaurants & Cafés
Akai Hana
Our go-to spot for sushi in Columbus is Akai Hana, where the Chirashi Bowl is an absolute must-try—fresh, perfectly sliced sashimi over seasoned rice that never disappoints!
📍 Akai Hana
Lupo
For those who love tapas-style dining, Lupo offers a little bit of everything—but the octopus is a standout. Perfect for date nights or gathering with friends.
📍 Lupo
La Tavola
One of Columbus’ best-kept secrets, La Tavola serves up authentic Italian cuisine with rotating specials that keep us coming back.
📍 La Tavola
Third & Hollywood
One word: The burger. If you’re looking for a perfectly cooked, elevated burger experience, Third & Hollywood in Grandview is the place to go.
📍 Third & Hollywood
Fox in the Snow
With locations in Dublin, German Village, and New Albany, this café is our top pick for coffee, seasonal pastries, and the famous egg sandwich.
📍 Fox in the Snow
Lindey’s
An iconic German Village restaurant, Lindey’s offers classic, upscale dining with a gorgeous patio—perfect for celebrations and client dinners.
📍 Lindey’s
Stauf’s Coffee
A Columbus coffee institution, Stauf’s has been serving up expertly roasted coffee for years. Their German Village location is a great place to grab a quiet moment or meet clients.
📍 Stauf’s Coffee
3. Local Shopping & Boutiques
Flower Galaxy at Tremont Center
We love Flower Galaxy’s door hangers as closing gifts for clients. Their arrangements are always stunning, and they’re a great local shop for seasonal floral decor. Their customer serve is above and beyond and you can always count on them for their timeliness!
📍 Flower Galaxy
Ladybird in Short North
A go-to for trendy, curated fashion finds, Ladybird is perfect for updating your wardrobe with stylish, statement pieces.
📍 Ladybird
Thread Boutique
For a mix of modern, chic, and timeless fashion, Thread is a must-visit spot for Columbus shoppers.
The store also features a beautiful collection of home goods and even offers an carefully curated gifting boutique.
Thread also carried Emily’s favorite jewelry brand, Pluma, a collection of unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect the owner, Treffry Caldwell’s deep appreciation for natural beauty and craftsmanship. Sourcing the finest gemstones and geodes from around the world, Treffry carefully selects each stone to create designs that resonate with authenticity and individuality.
📍 Thread
The Book Loft
One of the most charming bookstores in the country, The Book Loft in German Village is a maze of literary treasures—a must-visit for book lovers.
📍 The Book Loft
4. Fitness & Family-Friendly Activities
System of Strength
For an intense, high-energy workout, System of Strength’s “High + Tight” class is a favorite. Whether you’re into strength training or endurance, it’s a great place to stay fit.
📍 System of Strength
Wendy’s Gymnastics & Little Diggers
Perfect for keeping little ones active, Wendy’s Gymnastics and Little Diggers offer fun, structured activities for kids of all ages.
📍 Wendy’s Gymnastics
📍 Little Diggers
Columbus Metropolitan Library
A fantastic resource for families, the Columbus Library system offers incredible programming, events, and a great selection of books for all ages.
📍 Columbus Metropolitan Library
Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
One of the top zoos in the country, the Columbus Zoo is a must-visit for families and animal lovers alike.
📍 Columbus Zoo
Cover to Cover
A fantastic independent bookstore in Upper Arlington focused on children’s literature, Cover to Cover is perfect for finding great reads for young bookworms.
📍 Cover to Cover
Final Thoughts
Columbus is packed with amazing local businesses, and these are just a few of our favorites! Whether you're grabbing coffee, meeting clients, dining out, or looking for fun activities with the family, this city has something for everyone.
As longtime Columbus locals, we love helping new homeowners feel at home in their neighborhoods. If you're moving to Columbus and need recommendations—or a trusted real estate team—we’d love to help!
📩 Contact us anytime!
