Jack & Benny's Old North Diner

- 2563 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202

For decades, Jack & Benny's Old North Diner has been a comforting and familiar presence for breakfast and brunch lovers in Columbus, Ohio. Nestled in the vibrant University District, this diner is more than just a place to grab a meal; it's a piece of local history, serving up classic American breakfast fare in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. While some experiences may vary, for many Columbus residents, it remains a go-to spot for that essential morning pick-me-up or a leisurely weekend brunch with friends.

Jack & Benny's has a long and storied history in Columbus, with its roots tracing back to 1954 when Jack Sher and Benny Klein opened the first Jack & Benny's diner downtown. The current Old North location, established in 1994, carries on this legacy, drawing diners from Ohio State University and beyond with its all-day breakfast menu. It’s the kind of place where the aroma of coffee and sizzling bacon fills the air, promising a hearty start to your day.

Known for its classic diner offerings, from fluffy pancakes to satisfying omelets, Jack & Benny's aims to provide dependable and delicious breakfast and brunch options for every taste. The casual, laid-back vibe encourages patrons to relax and enjoy their food without feeling rushed, making it an ideal setting for catching up with friends or starting your day at a comfortable pace. It embodies the essence of a traditional American diner, a place where good food and simple pleasures combine to create a welcoming community hub.

Jack & Benny's Old North Diner is conveniently located at 2563 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202, USA. This puts it squarely in the bustling Clintonville and University District area, a highly active and easily accessible part of Columbus. Its position on North High Street, a primary north-south thoroughfare, makes it simple to reach from various points across the city.

For those traveling by car, parking can be found, though it's typical for a busy urban area like North High Street. Some street parking may be available, and it's advisable to factor in a little extra time during peak breakfast and brunch hours, especially on weekends when the area can be quite lively. However, the convenience of its location often outweighs any minor parking challenges for local regulars.

Public transportation is an excellent option for reaching Jack & Benny's. The diner is situated directly on a major COTA bus route, with several bus stops nearby. This makes it highly accessible for Ohio State University students, local residents, and anyone in Columbus who prefers to use public transit. The surrounding neighborhood is quite walkable, allowing patrons to easily combine their meal with other activities in the vibrant Clintonville area, from exploring local shops to visiting nearby parks. The diner's prominent position on High Street ensures it's easy to spot and integrate into your daily routine.

Jack & Benny's Old North Diner offers a classic American breakfast and brunch menu, focusing on hearty, satisfying dishes that are typical of a traditional diner. While specific daily specials might vary, here's a general overview of the types of services and menu items you can expect:

• Dine-In Service: They provide a comfortable and laid-back atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their meals. The seating area is designed for casual dining, allowing for relaxed conversations without feeling rushed.
• Breakfast and Brunch Options All Day: As a "greasy spoon" and "all-day-breakfast menu" staple, their primary focus is on serving breakfast and brunch items throughout their operating hours.
• Classic Breakfast Staples:
  • Pancakes: Often noted for being large and satisfying, available as buttermilk pancakes.
  • French Toast: Served in various portion sizes, including half servings, a popular choice for a sweet breakfast.
  • Omelets: Customizable omelets with various fillings.
  • Eggs: Prepared to order, served with sides like hash browns or potatoes.
  • Breakfast Meats: Bacon (often crispy), ham, and sausage patties.
  • Biscuits & Gravy: A traditional Southern breakfast item, though quality may vary based on reviews.
  • Hash Browns: Described by some as "cooked perfect," often served as a side to many dishes.
  • Bagels and Toast: Accompaniments for breakfast.
• Signature "Buster" Dishes: They are known for their "Gutbuster" or "James Buster Douglas" platter – a massive combination of hash browns, potato pancakes, bacon, ham, egg, sausage patty, and cheese, all stacked and covered in gravy. Variations of this hearty dish are also available.
• Sandwiches: While primarily a breakfast spot, they offer lunch-style sandwiches such as the "Arnold" (a variation of Eggs Benedict), and other sandwich options (e.g., pictured items in reviews). Other locations are noted to have burgers.
• Beverages: Standard diner beverages like coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
• Waitlist System: During busy periods, they utilize a waitlist system to manage seating efficiently, with a small waiting area available.

The emphasis is on classic, no-frills diner food served in a welcoming environment, making it a reliable choice for a satisfying breakfast or brunch experience in Columbus.

Jack & Benny's Old North Diner, while a long-standing institution, offers several features and highlights that contribute to its enduring appeal, as well as some areas that recent reviews indicate may vary in quality:

• Historic & University District Staple: For over 27 years (and a lineage tracing back to 1954), Jack & Benny's has been a significant part of the University District's dining scene. This deep-rooted history gives it a sense of familiarity and nostalgia for many Columbus locals and OSU alumni.
• All-Day Breakfast Menu: One of its primary highlights is the availability of breakfast and brunch items throughout their operating hours (typically 7 or 8 AM to 3 PM daily). This caters to early risers and those who prefer a later breakfast or brunch.
• Classic Diner Atmosphere: The "laid-back vibe" and "tolerable noise level" contribute to a comfortable setting where patrons "don't feel rushed to finish your food and leave." This makes it suitable for relaxed conversations and extended catch-ups with friends. The interior is also noted for its "tons of plants," adding to a cozy and inviting ambiance.
• Extensive Menu Variety: While rooted in diner classics, their menu offers a wide array of choices from pancakes and French toast to various omelets, and hearty "Buster" combinations. The inclusion of dishes like "The Arnold" (Eggs Benedict variation) ensures there's something beyond the absolute basics.
• Kid-Friendly Environment: Although not explicitly detailed for this location, other Jack & Benny's locations are often described as kid-friendly, suggesting a welcoming atmosphere for families.
• Large Portions & Value: Historically, Jack & Benny's has been known for generous portions, providing good value for a diner meal, though recent reviews suggest some inconsistencies with portion sizing for certain items.

It's important to note that while many reviews highlight positive aspects like the ambiance, choice, and overall satisfaction, recent feedback indicates potential variability in food temperature and specific dish quality (e.g., biscuits and gravy). However, the general consensus points to a place with a strong local identity and a relaxed environment suitable for a casual meal.

For Columbus residents looking to enjoy breakfast or brunch at Jack & Benny's Old North Diner, here is their contact information:

Address: 2563 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202, USA

Phone: (614) 263-0242

Mobile Phone: +1 614-263-0242

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on their current operating hours, it is always recommended to call ahead. Based on general information, they typically operate from 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM daily. They also have an email address for inquiries: jandbdiner@gmail.com, and an online ordering option might be available via their website (jackandbennys.com). It's advisable to check their official website or call directly for any specific questions about wait times, menu updates, or holiday hours to ensure the best possible experience.

Jack & Benny's Old North Diner holds a special place for locals in Columbus, Ohio, making it a suitable and often beloved choice for breakfast and brunch. Its deep roots in the University District and its long history as a Columbus staple mean it carries a sense of nostalgia and community for many residents. For those living in Clintonville or near the OSU campus, the convenience of its N High Street location is undeniable, with easy access via car and public transport.

The diner's laid-back and unhurried atmosphere is a significant draw, especially for weekend brunchers looking to relax and enjoy their meal without feeling rushed. This comfortable environment makes it ideal for catching up with friends, enjoying a casual family breakfast, or simply starting your day at a leisurely pace. While recent reviews suggest some inconsistencies in food quality, the core offering of classic American breakfast staples, combined with the extensive menu variety (including the famous "Buster" dishes and various egg preparations), means there's always something to satisfy a breakfast craving. For many, the charm of a traditional diner, coupled with its convenient location and generally welcoming vibe, continues to make Jack & Benny's Old North Diner a suitable and cherished option for a comforting and familiar start to their day in Columbus.

Jack & Benny's Old North Diner

2563 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202, USA