Iconic Columbus Foods: The Must-Try Dishes That Define Our City
Columbus has a vibrant, eclectic food scene shaped by generations of immigrant traditions, neighborhood institutions, and homegrown brands that went national. Whether you’re new to the city or a longtime local looking to revisit the classics, these iconic Columbus foods offer a delicious way to taste our city’s culinary identity.
Below is a guide to the dishes that define Columbus—what they are, why they matter, and where you can find them today.
Columbus-Style Pizza
Columbus-style pizza is instantly recognizable: thin crust, edge-to-edge toppings, and always cut into squares. The crisp base and generous toppings give it a satisfying crunch in every bite. Columbus is also the home of Ezzo pepperoni, the cult-favorite cup-and-char pepperoni used by top pizzerias around the country—another example of the city’s influence on American pizza culture. There’s even a book dedicated entirely to Columbus-style pizza written by local author Jim Ellison, underscoring its local pride and national significance.
Where to try it: Donatos (founded in Columbus), Massey’s, Tommy’s, Terita’s, and countless neighborhood pizzerias that keep the tradition thriving.
Wor Su Gai
This old-school Chinese-American dish is said to have been created at the Far East Restaurant in Columbus in the 1920s. Featuring crispy battered, fried chicken breast served over a bed of iceberg lettuce, smothered with fluorescent gravy and garnished with almonds or peanuts, Wor Su Gai reflects the city’s mid-20th-century dining scene.
Where to try it: Ding Ho and Wings Restaurant are longtime institutions known for their nostalgic versions of this classic.
Buckeyes
No list of Columbus foods would be complete without buckeyes—creamy peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate to resemble Ohio’s state tree nut. They’re a staple at holidays, tailgates, bakeries, and gift boxes across Central Ohio.
Where to find them:
The Buckeye Lady – A local favorite known for their novel flavors and stuffed buckeyes.
Krema Nut Company – One of the oldest peanut butter makers in the nation, producing excellent buckeyes using their signature peanut butter.
Winans Chocolates + Coffees – A regional favorite with smooth, rich chocolate and peanut butter centers.
Anthony-Thomas Chocolates – The city’s largest commercial producer of buckeyes.
Krema Nut Company
Schmidt’s Bahama Mama
A Columbus icon for more than a century, Schmidt’s in German Village is best known for its signature smoked sausage—the spicy, juicy Bahama Mama. Made with a signature blend of beef and pork, seasoned with a kick of spice, paprika, and garlic, it’s been a fan favorite since 1964.
Where to try it: Schmidt’s Sausage Haus in German Village, at their popular food trucks around the city or at the Ohio State Fair. Schmidt’s is recognized as the longest-running, family-owned food concessionaire at any U.S. state fair, a tradition that continues today.
Schmidt’s Cream Puff
Equally beloved is Schmidt’s half-pound cream puff, filled with fluffy vanilla or seasonal pastry cream. It’s one of the city’s most photographed desserts and a must-try for visitors.
Where to try it: At Schmidt’s restaurant in German Village or at festivals throughout Central Ohio.
Johnny Marzetti
Johnny Marzetti—ground beef, pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese baked into a hearty casserole—is one of Columbus’s most storied dishes. Contrary to popular lore, it wasn’t actually invented by Teresa Marzetti of the former downtown Marzetti’s Restaurant. However, the dish did gain local and national recognition thanks to the Marzetti name and eventually became a home and cafeteria staple across the Midwest.
Where to find it today:
Tommy’s Diner – A regular Monday special that keeps the tradition alive.
Weiland’s Market – Offers take-home pans for an easy, nostalgic meal.
Fried Bologna Sandwich
The fried bologna sandwich is comfort food at its purest—thick-cut, griddled bologna stacked on a soft bun with classic toppings. It’s nostalgic Midwestern fare, served with pride in Columbus taverns and diners.
Where to try it:
Valter’s at the Maennerchor, Club 185, Johnny’s Tavern and other classic neighborhood spots. If you’re up for a little drive, head north of Columbus to the G & R Tavern in Waldo, Ohio.
The Thurmanator
The Thurmanator burger from The Thurman Café in Columbus is a legend. Originally created for bodybuilders attending the annual Arnold Classic fitness expo, this towering meal features two 12oz patties, ham, bacon, multiple cheeses, veggies, and toppings , all served with fries. It gained national attention through Man v. Food and remains a rite of passage for anyone with a serious appetite.
Where to try it: The Thurman Café in German Village.
Wendy’s
Founded by Dave Thomas in downtown Columbus in 1969, Wendy’s is one of the city’s greatest culinary success stories. Known for square burgers and the iconic Frosty, Wendy’s used Columbus as a test market for decades and continues to innovate from its HQ here. The first Wendy’s may be gone, but the brand’s influence on Columbus—and the fast-food world—is unmistakable.
Where to try it:
At the Flagship Wendy’s Restaurant in Dublin, Ohio, near their corporate HQ, which features a community room with memorabilia like original uniforms, the first menu and ad campaign history.
White Castle
Though known nationwide, White Castle has been headquartered in Columbus since the 1930s. Its iconic sliders, crinkle-cut fries, and quirky brand extensions (like grocery-store sliders and slider-scented merch) make it a memorable part of Columbus’s food landscape.
Where to find it: Locations across Central Ohio.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
Jeni Britton’s innovative approach to ice cream—bold flavor combinations, real ingredients, and meticulous craft—started at the North Market and grew into a beloved national brand. Her inventive flavors have become modern Columbus classics.
Where to try it: Scoop shops throughout the city, including the original North Market location.
Taste Columbus Through Its Signature Dishes
From century-old traditions to national brands born here, Columbus’s food identity is rich, diverse, and uniquely delicious. These iconic dishes tell the story of the city—one unforgettable bite at a time.
If you want to explore Columbus through its flavors, our Columbus Food Adventures tours offer curated experiences featuring the city’s best local eats, hidden gems, and food history.
Book your next culinary adventure at columbusfoodadventures.com.
