Speck Italian Eatery

- 89 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

For residents and visitors in Columbus, Ohio, who appreciate a sophisticated yet inviting dining experience, Speck Italian Eatery has quickly established itself as a must-visit destination. Located in the bustling heart of downtown, Speck offers a unique and modern interpretation of Italian cuisine, moving beyond the traditional to explore innovative flavors and presentations. It's a place where culinary artistry meets a vibrant atmosphere, creating an experience that keeps patrons returning.

Speck Italian Eatery, under the culinary direction of Chef Josh Dalton and his team, aims to serve food that is both delicious and playfully executed. Their approach is not strictly traditional Italian but is deeply influenced by Italy's rich culinary culture and its passion for exceptional food. This philosophy translates into a menu that is dynamic and exciting, encouraging diners to "embrace the menu" and explore a variety of dishes, ideally for sharing. This communal dining style is a key part of the Speck experience, allowing guests to sample more of the kitchen's creative output.

Customer reviews consistently highlight the outstanding quality of the food and the efficiency and knowledge of the staff. Patrons speak of everything being "perfect from start to finish," with staff who are "very efficient and on top of everything," even offering friendly perspectives on dish selections. The speed at which delicious food is served is also frequently commended, indicating a well-oiled operation dedicated to providing a seamless dining experience.

From delectable starters like a fresh wedge salad, crispy confit wings, and creamy burrata with speck, to impressive main courses such as the new crab pasta, tender short rib, and their renowned bone marrow pasta, Speck Italian Eatery delivers on its promise of inventive and satisfying dishes. The menu is a testament to their commitment to using quality ingredients and preparing them with skill and imagination. Whether you're a connoisseur of Italian cuisine or simply looking for an exceptional meal out in Ohio, Speck Italian Eatery offers an experience that is consistently praised and highly recommended by those who have visited.

Speck Italian Eatery is prominently located at 89 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA, placing it in an incredibly accessible and desirable spot within downtown Columbus. This central location on High Street, a major thoroughfare in the city, ensures high visibility and ease of access for a diverse range of local users.

For those working or residing in the downtown core, Speck is easily reachable on foot, making it a perfect spot for a business lunch or an evening out after work. Public transportation is also a convenient option, with numerous COTA bus stops located within a short walking distance, connecting the eatery to various neighborhoods across the greater Columbus area. This makes it a feasible dining destination even for those relying on public transit.

Parking in downtown Columbus can sometimes be a consideration, but Speck Italian Eatery addresses this by offering valet service, conveniently located on the corner of N. High St. and W. Gay St. in front of Hank's. Additionally, while street parking on High Street has some time limitations, especially during certain hours (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday for dinner service), ample alternative parking can be found on East Long Street, West Gay Street, and at the Leveque Tower parking garage. This thoughtful provision of parking solutions further enhances its accessibility. The vibrant surroundings of downtown Columbus provide an energetic backdrop, making Speck Italian Eatery not just a place to eat, but a part of the dynamic urban experience.

• Dine-in Service: Offering a full-service dining experience for lunch and dinner in a stylish and vibrant setting.
• Lunch Reservations: Available for parties of 2 to 6, with signature sandwiches on house-made breads and a selection of house-made pastas.
• Dinner Reservations: Highly recommended for dining room seating, with reservations available for parties of 2 to 6 online (up to 8 guests Monday-Wednesday by phone/email). A turn-time policy applies, varying by party size.
• Chef's Counter Seating: Offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at the culinary team, available for parties of 2 by reservation.
• High Top Seating: Full-service high top lounge tables are available, typically for parties of 2.
• Walk-ins Accepted: While reservations are highly advised, especially on busy nights, walk-ins are accepted when space allows.
• Valet Parking: Convenient valet service is offered on the corner of N. High St. and W. Gay St.
• Private Event Inquiries: For parties larger than what can be booked online, the restaurant encourages email inquiries for special accommodations.
• Curated Beverage Program: Includes a selection of unique cocktails, wines (including Corvina, Rubinelli Vajol, Valpolicella Classico), and non-alcoholic options.
• Dessert Menu: A selection of well-crafted desserts to conclude the meal, such as Tiramisu and Mille Feuille.

• Modern Italian Cuisine: Speck Italian Eatery offers a contemporary and imaginative interpretation of Italian dishes, moving beyond traditional fare with playful and delicious creations.
• Chef-Driven Menu: The menu is thoughtfully prepared by Chef Josh Dalton and his culinary team, known for their innovative approach to food.
• Exceptional Service: Consistently praised by customers for its efficient, knowledgeable, and friendly staff, who are proactive in assisting with dish selections and ensuring a smooth dining experience.
• Prime Downtown Location: Situated on N High Street in Columbus, providing easy access and a vibrant urban setting for diners.
• Emphasis on Shareable Plates: Encourages a communal dining style, allowing guests to sample a variety of appetizers (cicchetti) and main dishes.
• Diverse and Exciting Menu: Features standout dishes such as crispy confit wings, bone marrow pasta, fresh crab pasta, perfectly cooked polpo (octopus), and house-made focaccia and burrata.
• Vibrant and Energetic Atmosphere: The restaurant offers a lively and well-appointed space, contributing to an enjoyable dining ambiance.
• House-Made Pastas and Breads: A strong commitment to crafting fresh pasta and breads in-house, highlighting their dedication to quality and authentic textures.
• Valet Parking Availability: A convenient amenity in downtown Columbus, making visits easier for those driving.
• Highly Rated: Frequently cited in discussions about top Italian restaurants in Columbus, affirming its strong reputation among locals.

Address: 89 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Phone: (614) 754-8544

For the discerning diner in Ohio, particularly within the bustling metropolitan area of Columbus, Speck Italian Eatery stands out as a premier choice for a memorable culinary experience. Its location at 89 N High St places it squarely in the heart of downtown, making it incredibly accessible for locals whether they're coming from nearby offices, residential areas, or utilizing public transportation. The convenience of its central spot, coupled with thoughtful amenities like valet parking, makes it an attractive and practical option for a wide range of occasions, from a spontaneous lunch to a planned celebratory dinner.

What truly makes Speck Italian Eatery suitable for locals, however, is its commitment to delivering an exceptional dining experience that marries innovation with comfort. This isn't just another Italian restaurant; it's a place where Chef Josh Dalton and his team reinterpret classic flavors with a modern sensibility, resulting in dishes that are both exciting and deeply satisfying. The glowing reviews from repeat customers underscore this, highlighting how "everything is perfect from start to finish" and how the food is consistently "delicious." The recommendation to "embrace the menu" and share multiple items speaks to the quality and variety available, encouraging a communal and adventurous approach to dining that resonates well with many modern diners.

Furthermore, the professionalism and knowledge of the staff are frequently lauded, creating an inviting and efficient atmosphere even during busy times. This high level of service ensures that patrons feel valued and well-cared for, which is a crucial aspect of a positive dining experience. While the fast-paced environment and structured ordering might be a slight adjustment for some, it ultimately contributes to the restaurant's efficiency in delivering quick and delicious meals. For anyone in Ohio seeking an elevated, imaginative, and consistently excellent Italian meal in a vibrant downtown setting, Speck Italian Eatery offers a compelling and highly suitable option that promises to be a highlight of their dining adventures.

Speck Italian Eatery

89 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA