Brunch & Snack Chat
Brunch & Snack ChatBites & BanterBest Restaurants Near Me
CaliforniaNew JerseyNew YorkOhioTexas

Brunch & Snack ChatBest Restaurants Near MeOhioFranklin CountyColumbusDowntownBest Restaurants in East Main StreetSidebar Columbus
Sidebar Columbus ico

Sidebar Columbus
- 122 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215

Tapas restaurant, South American restaurant ★4.0 (211)·US$30–50

122 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

4.0
Absolutely blown away by the diversity and quality of food, family friendly menu, very upscale preparation- kudos to the chef- and service was excellent. We had a large party and the restaurant was packed so I was highly impressed with the ability to keep up. I would say for positive feedback to bring out meals as close together as possible but other than that it was delicious, well presented and the atmosphere was upbeat, clean and exciting and everyone around us was having a great time. Clean restrooms as well and lounge downstairs. I loved the large, well laid out bar and outdoor seating though I didn’t enjoy this visit. More than enough parking . - A LaCount Frank
Sidebar Columbus Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
US$30–50 per person Reported by 211 peopleUS$10–20US$20–30US$30–50US$50–100

Sidebar Columbus Introduce

For residents and visitors in Columbus, Ohio, seeking a dining experience that combines exceptional culinary artistry with a lively and welcoming atmosphere, Sidebar Columbus stands out as a top-tier choice. Located on East Main Street in the vibrant heart of downtown, Sidebar has quickly garnered a reputation for its diverse and high-quality food, making it a go-to spot for everything from casual evenings to special celebrations.

Sidebar Columbus is not just another restaurant; it’s an establishment that aims to impress with every detail. Patrons are consistently "blown away by the diversity and quality of food," highlighting an attention to detail that extends from the ingredients to the "very upscale preparation." This dedication to culinary excellence, coupled with an atmosphere described as "upbeat, clean and exciting," sets Sidebar apart in Columbus's competitive dining scene.

The menu at Sidebar is designed to be a delightful exploration of flavors, with a focus on tapas and small plates that encourage sharing and sampling. This approach allows diners to experience a wide array of dishes, each presented beautifully and bursting with taste. From savory beef skewers with blue cheese to perfectly executed risotto and vibrant mortadella, the kitchen consistently delivers dishes that are a "delight to the eyes as well as the taste buds." Even with large parties and a packed house, the restaurant is noted for its impressive ability to "keep up," ensuring that the dining experience remains fluid and enjoyable.

Beyond the remarkable food, Sidebar Columbus is also praised for its excellent service. Servers are described as "just attentive enough," striking the perfect balance between being helpful and allowing diners to enjoy their conversations. The energy of the staff contributes to the overall positive vibe, making every visit feel like a special occasion. With its combination of delicious, well-presented food, efficient service, and an inviting ambiance, Sidebar Columbus truly offers a complete and captivating dining experience for anyone in Ohio looking for an exceptional meal.

Location and Accessibility

Sidebar Columbus is ideally situated at 122 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA, placing it in a highly accessible and desirable part of downtown Columbus. This prime location makes it a convenient dining destination for a wide array of local patrons, including those working in nearby offices, government buildings, and residents living in the central business district.

For pedestrians, the restaurant is easily reachable from various points in downtown Columbus, making it an excellent choice for a lunch break or an evening stroll. Its prominent position on East Main Street, a well-trafficked route, contributes to its visibility and ease of navigation for those unfamiliar with the area. Public transportation users will also find Sidebar highly accessible, with numerous COTA bus stops located within close walking distance, connecting the restaurant to various neighborhoods across the city.

Parking, often a consideration in downtown areas, is also well-addressed for Sidebar Columbus. While there isn't on-site parking directly at the restaurant, ample options are available nearby. Customers have noted convenient and affordable parking lots just "about a block away," with rates that are particularly reasonable after 5 PM. This proximity to parking, combined with a general sense of safety in the area, significantly enhances its appeal. The overall accessibility ensures that locals can easily enjoy the culinary delights and vibrant atmosphere that Sidebar Columbus offers without major logistical concerns.

Services Offered

  • Dine-in Service: Sidebar Columbus offers a full-service dining experience for lunch and dinner in a sophisticated yet upbeat setting.
  • Diverse Menu of Tapas/Small Plates: A highlight of their offering, featuring a wide variety of small, shareable dishes from various culinary inspirations, allowing for a diverse tasting experience. Menu items include Beef Empanadas, Chicken Skewers, Scallops Parmesan, Spicy Potatoes, Saffron Risotto, and unique items like Octopus Galician style.
  • Full Bar & Craft Cocktails: Features a well-laid-out bar with an extensive selection of beverages, including craft cocktails, wines, and beers, perfect for pairing with the food.
  • Special Occasion Dining: The upscale preparation, excellent service, and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal choice for celebrating special events.
  • Outdoor Seating: Provides a pleasant option for al fresco dining, enhancing the overall experience, especially during favorable weather.
  • Lunch & Dinner Service: Open for both lunch and dinner, catering to different dining schedules.
  • Happy Hour Specials: Offers special pricing on select menu items and drinks, providing value to patrons.
  • Vegetarian Options: The menu includes a variety of vegetarian-friendly dishes, such as Cilantro Hummus, Spicy Potatoes, Eggplant Parmesan, and Mushroom & Garlic tapas.
  • Clean and Upbeat Atmosphere: Committed to providing a clean, exciting, and welcoming environment for all guests, including clean restrooms and a lounge downstairs.
  • Accommodates Large Parties: Capable of managing and serving large groups efficiently, as noted by customer reviews.
  • Takeout/Delivery: Available through popular food delivery platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Postmates, offering convenience for enjoying Sidebar's cuisine at home.

Features / Highlights

  • Exceptional Food Quality & Diversity: Customers consistently praise the wide range of dishes and their high quality, with "upscale preparation" and flavors that are a "delight to the eyes as well as the taste buds."
  • Vibrant & Upscale Atmosphere: The restaurant offers an upbeat, clean, and exciting ambiance, featuring thoughtful decor and a comfortable setting suitable for various occasions.
  • Excellent & Attentive Service: The staff is highly commended for being efficient, knowledgeable, and just attentive enough, contributing significantly to a positive dining experience.
  • Tapas & Small Plates Concept: Encourages sharing and allows diners to sample a wide array of unique and flavorful dishes, such as beef skewers with blue cheese and perfectly cooked octopus.
  • Convenient Downtown Location: Situated on E Main St in downtown Columbus, easily accessible for locals and visitors, with ample nearby parking.
  • Family-Friendly Menu: Despite the upscale preparation, the menu is described as family-friendly, suggesting options that appeal to various age groups.
  • Well-Laid-Out Bar & Lounge: Features a large, well-designed bar area, ideal for cocktails, and a downstairs lounge for a more relaxed setting.
  • Cleanliness: Noted for its clean restrooms and overall well-maintained premises, enhancing the comfort of guests.
  • Ideal for Special Occasions: Many reviews suggest it’s a "great place to celebrate a special occasion" due to its elevated experience.

Contact Information

Address: 122 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Phone: (614) 228-9041

Conclusion: Why Sidebar Columbus is Suitable for Locals

For the residents of Ohio, particularly those residing or working in Columbus, Sidebar Columbus presents itself as an ideal dining destination that genuinely enhances the city's culinary landscape. Its strategic location at 122 E Main St in downtown Columbus ensures superb accessibility, making it a convenient choice for any occasion – from a mid-week lunch to a celebratory weekend dinner. The ease of reaching the restaurant on foot, coupled with readily available and affordable parking options nearby, significantly contributes to its suitability for local patrons looking for a hassle-free dining experience.

What truly makes Sidebar Columbus suitable for locals is its consistent delivery of "wonderful food" characterized by "diversity and quality." The tapas-style menu encourages exploration and shared enjoyment, allowing diners to savor a wide array of exquisite dishes that are both visually appealing and bursting with flavor. This emphasis on upscale preparation and thoughtful presentation elevates everyday dining into something truly special, making it a perfect spot for celebrating milestones or simply indulging in a high-quality meal. The consistent positive feedback on dishes like the beef skewers and octopus highlights the kitchen's prowess and commitment to culinary excellence.

Furthermore, the overall atmosphere and service at Sidebar Columbus contribute significantly to its appeal for the local community. The "upbeat, clean, and exciting" ambiance, combined with "excellent" and attentive service, creates a welcoming and enjoyable environment where everyone feels comfortable and well-cared for. Even when the restaurant is packed, the ability of the staff to "keep up" and maintain a high standard of service is a testament to their professionalism and dedication. For those in Ohio seeking a restaurant that consistently delivers on all fronts—from delicious and diverse food to a vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service—Sidebar Columbus is an exceptional choice that promises to make every visit a delightful and memorable occasion.

Sidebar Columbus Menu

  • Vegetable Cheese Tapas

  • Cilantro Hummus US$12.00

    With grilled pita.

  • Spicy Potatoes US$12.00

    Roasted potatoes with onions, red peppers and spicy chipotle-garlic aioli.

  • Tomato and Goat Cheese US$13.00

    Tomato marinara blended with basil and served with goat cheese and a side of grilled pita.

  • Cheese Empanadas US$14.00

    Served with pico de gallo.

  • Plantains, Queso and Guava US$13.00

    Fried sweet plantains, queso fresco, and guava paste.

  • Mushrooms and Garlic US$13.00

    Sauteed mushrooms with sherry wine and garlic.

  • Manchego Cheese US$15.00

    Slices of aged Spanish cheese and mixed olives.

  • Chickpea and Spinach Soup US$12.00

    Garbanzo, spinach, celery, onions, potatoes in a chicken broth. Served with grilled pita.

  • Guacamole and Chips US$10.00

    House-made fresh Guacamole and chips

  • Eggplant Parmesan US$15.00

    Layered with spinach, marinara, mozzarella cheese and asparagus

  • Chile Relleno & Cheese US$15.00

    Poblano pepper stuffed with Gouda cheese, topped with tomato sauce, cheddar-Monterey-Jack cheese, & baked. Garnished with Pico de Gallo & sour cream.

  • Saffron Risotto US$14.00

    Arborio rice cooked with chicken broth and creamy saffron sauce, finished with Parmesan cheese and garnished with shaved Parmesan.

  • Fish and Seafood Tapas

  • Shrimp and Garlic Sauce US$17.00

    Tossed with sherry wine, olive oil, parsley, dried chillies, and side of grilled baguette.

  • Tilapia Fritters US$16.00

    Marinated with garlic, soy sauce & served with cilantro-lemon aioli.

  • Octopus Galician US$20.00

    Sauteed with potatoes, roasted bell peppers, paprika, olive oil, dried chillies and side of baguette.

  • Mussels Al Diablo US$20.00

    Sauteed in house-made spicy tomato-cilantro sauce, sherry wine, garlic, and grilled baguette.

  • Scallops Parmesan US$23.00

    Baked with parmesan cheese, and huancaina sauce. Served with lemon wedge and grilled baguette.

  • Smoked Salmon Bruschetta US$17.00

    Spread with lemon cream cheese, caper-olive oil, red onions, and garnished with lemon wedge.

  • Lobster Ravioli US$20.00

    House-made Lobster Ravioli, tossed with diced tomato-caper sauce and asparagus.

  • Blackened Salmon US$22.00

    7 oz Norwegian salmon, pan-seared with roasted peppers, onions, and cilantro, topped with corn salsa.

  • Mahi Encocado US$23.00

    8oz. Mahi fillet, pan-fried topped with creamy coconut milk sauce, served with white rice.

  • Ocean Mix US$20.00

    Mussels, squid, and shrimp sautéed with bell peppers and celery, with our creamy Huancaína sauce and lemon juice, served with grilled baguette.

  • Shrimp Ceviche US$18.00

    Ecuadorian-style citrus-marinated shrimp with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and spices, garnished with toasted corn and plantain chips.

  • Tuna Steak US$19.00

    6 oz hoisin-marinated tuna steak, served with fennel salad and grilled baby bok choy.

  • Ceviche US$18.00

    White fish marinated in fresh lime juice, red onions, cilantro, and ginger, garnished with fried green plantains.

  • Tuna Tartare US$17.00

    Ahi tuna steak diced and mixed with mustard-mayonnaise, cucumber, roasted sesame seeds & avocado. Served with crostini.

  • Meat and Poultry Tapas

  • Chicken Skewers US$14.00

    Grilled chicken breast. Served with Chimichurri sauce.

  • Beef Empanadas US$15.00

    Served with spicy Rocotto sauce.

  • Chicken Croquettes US$13.00

    Served with spicy Rocotto sauce.

  • Beef Meatballs US$15.00

    Served with house-made marinara sauce and grilled baguette.

  • Cured Spanish Sausage US$17.00

    Sauteed with our seasonal vegetables, tomato-garlic sauce, and grilled baguette.

  • Chicken Marsala US$22.00

    7 oz chicken breast sautéed with mushrooms, Marsala wine, and herb spices, served over linguine pasta.

  • Roasted Duck US$22.00

    Quarter duck served with fingerling potatoes, baby bok choy, and drizzled with wine-chipotle sauce.

  • Rack of Lamb US$26.00

    Herb-marinated and grilled, topped with garlic-rosemary demi-glace, served with sautéed vegetables.

  • Beef Fillet Skewers US$25.00

    Grilled and topped with blue cheese sauce, served with sautéed vegetables.

  • Strip Steak Grilled US$35.00

    8 oz grilled strip steak with sautéed mushrooms and green beans, served with chimichurri sauce.

  • Lomo Saltado US$26.00

    Stir-fried beef tenderloin with onions, peppers, tomatoes, ginger, yellow chili, cilantro, soy sauce, and garlic, served with homemade fries and white rice.

  • Pork Churrasco US$24.00

    Pork tenderloin marinated and grilled, drizzled with chimichurri, and served with rice and roasted peppers and onions.

  • Braised Short Rib US$26.00

    7 oz short rib served over garlic mashed potatoes, topped with rosemary demi-glace, and grilled asparagus.

  • Salads

  • House Salad US$10.00

    Field greens, Manchego cheese, artichoke, roasted peppers, glazed pecas and balsamic vinaigrette.

  • Capresse Salad US$11.00

    Fresh Buffalo mozzarella, grilled tomato, field greens and drizzled with balsamic glaze and basil oit..

  • Tomato and Feta Cheese US$11.00

    Tomatoes, red onions, cucumber, Hungarian peppers, cilantro, feta cheese, and a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette.

  • Romaine and Avocado US$11.00

    Romaine lettuce, fresh avocado, cherry tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese vinaigrette.

  • Pizza

  • Grilled Chicken Jalapeño Pizza US$20.00

    House-made marinara, mozzarella, tomatoes, grilled chicken, onions and jalapeño peppers.

  • Vegetable Pizza US$18.00

    House-made tomato sauce, mozzarella, & roasted vegetables.

  • Beef Cilantro Pizza US$20.00

    Beef tenderloin, onions, peppers, tomatoes, mozzarella-provolone cheese and cilantro leaves garnish.

  • Pepperoni Pizza US$18.00

    House-made marinara, mozzarella, pepperoni and fresh herbs.

  • Española Pizza US$22.00

    Chorizo, jamon prosciutto, roasted peppers, olives, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.

  • Smoked Salmon Pizza US$22.00

    Smoked salmon, dill, cream cheese, arugula, avocado, and mozzarella cheese.

  • Cheese Pizza US$17.00

    House-made marinara, mozzarella cheese and fresh herbs.

  • Braised Pork Belly US$20.00

    Garlic oil, Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, red peppers, onions, and fresh cilantro.

  • Sides

  • Sweet Fried Plantains US$6.00
  • Sauteed Green Beans US$6.00
  • Mixed Vegetables US$6.00
  • Grilled Asparagus US$8.00
  • French Fries US$6.00
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes US$5.00
  • Two Grilled Pita Bread US$5.00
  • Six Baked Bread Rolls US$5.00
  • Steamed White Rice US$5.00
  • Linguine Butter Pasta US$6.00
  • Black Bean and White Rice US$5.00
  • Desserts

  • Chocolate Madness US$10.00

    Moist chocolate cake topped with dark chocolate mousse.

  • Tres Leches US$10.00

    Soft vanilla cake filled with Grand Marnier and three types of milk.

  • Flan De Coco US$9.00

    Coconut caramelized custard a classic dessert with a Caribbean twist.

Sidebar Columbus Details

  • From the business

  • Identifies as Latino-owned
  • Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Kerbside pickup
  • Delivery
  • Takeaway
  • Dine-in
  • Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great beer selection
  • Great cocktails
  • Great coffee
  • Great dessert
  • Great wine list
  • Popular for

  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Happy-hour drinks
  • Happy-hour food
  • Healthy options
  • Private dining room
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Spirits
  • Vegan options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
  • Dining options

  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service
  • Amenities

  • Bar on site
  • Toilet
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cosy
  • Romantic
  • Trendy
  • Upmarket
  • Crowd

  • Family friendly
  • Groups
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Tourists
  • Transgender safe space
  • Planning

  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
  • Credit cards
  • Children

  • High chairs
  • Parking

  • Paid parking lot
  • Paid street parking
  • Parking
  • Pets

  • Dogs allowed outside

Sidebar Columbus Photos

Sidebar Columbus Picture 1Sidebar Columbus Picture 2Sidebar Columbus Picture 3Sidebar Columbus Picture 4Sidebar Columbus Picture 5Sidebar Columbus Picture 6Sidebar Columbus Picture 7Sidebar Columbus Picture 8Sidebar Columbus Picture 9Sidebar Columbus Picture 10

Sidebar Columbus Location

Sidebar Columbus

122 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Sidebar Columbus Reviews

An average rating of ★4.7 from 1092 user reviews.

happy hourbartenderssmall platestres leches cakeplantainsbeef empanadasguavachicken skewersflanshort ribs

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

More Best Restaurants Near Me

  • Pecan Penny'sPecan Penny's4.0 (1438 reviews)

    113 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • The WalrusThe Walrus4.0 (2684 reviews)

    143 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • Mikey's Late Night SliceMikey's Late Night Slice4.0 (2680 reviews)

    268 S 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • Dirty Frank's Hot Dog PalaceDirty Frank's Hot Dog Palace4.0 (4916 reviews)

    248 S 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • Allseason food truckAllseason food truck5.0 (10 reviews)

    381 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • Taqueria la costeu00f1itaTaqueria la costeu00f1ita5.0 (3 reviews)

    216 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • Bar Cicchetti ColumbusBar Cicchetti Columbus4.0 (123 reviews)

    310 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • SubwaySubway4.0 (75 reviews)

    101 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • TortillaTortilla4.0 (61 reviews)

    010-205792, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • Burger Theory ColumbusBurger Theory Columbus4.0 (201 reviews)

    175 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • Silav Cafe&GrillSilav Cafe&Grill4.0 (196 reviews)

    330 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • Dempsey's Food & SpiritsDempsey's Food & Spirits4.0 (804 reviews)

    346 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

  • Categories

    Top Visited Sites

    Trending Bites & Banter Posts