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The Walrus ico

The Walrus
- 143 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215

Bar & grill, Bar ★4.0 (449)·US$10–20

143 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

4.0
Great food. Had Cajun pasta. Food was hot and order came out quickly. So quick, all my food came at once. Even salad and appetizer.😳 Service was great. Helped that it wasn't crowded when I went. - Carl Jackson III
The Walrus Overview Intro Menu Detail Photos Location Reviews
US$10–20 per person Reported by 449 peopleUS$1–10US$10–20US$20–30US$30–50US$50–100

The Walrus Introduce

In the bustling heart of downtown Columbus, a local favorite has been quietly serving up delicious food and great times: The Walrus. This popular bar and grill has carved out a niche for itself as a go-to spot for those seeking a friendly, comfortable atmosphere paired with a menu full of classic American and pub-style fare, often with a unique and flavorful twist. From quick, satisfying lunches to relaxed dinners and late-night drinks, The Walrus has become a versatile and reliable destination for a diverse crowd of locals and visitors alike. It's the kind of place where you can feel just as at home grabbing a quick bite during your lunch break as you would settling in for an evening with friends.

Customers consistently praise the quality of the food and the efficiency of the service. Whether it's a hearty plate of Cajun pasta that arrives hot and flavorful or a perfectly made chicken quesadilla, the kitchen at The Walrus is known for delivering. The menu is diverse, featuring everything from appetizers like baked wings and tavern pretzels to entrees like short ribs and various burgers and sandwiches. One patron particularly enjoyed the Cajun pasta, noting how the food arrived quickly and was served hot. Another customer raved about their chicken quesadilla, highlighting the great service that accompanied their meal. This consistent positive feedback on both the food and the staff is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to a high-quality dining experience.

The Walrus also excels at classic pub fare. Their wings, for instance, are a popular choice, and they offer a variety of house-made sauces like Bourbon Buffalo, Spicy BBQ, and Garlic Parmesan. The sliders, while noted by one customer as needing a dedicated sauce to be "through the roof," are a solid option and a great example of the pub grub done right. The fact that the restaurant has a full bar with 30 beers on tap and a selection of bottles and cans adds to its appeal as a true bar and grill. This wide variety of beverage options ensures there's always a perfect drink to pair with your meal, whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or prefer a classic cocktail.

The atmosphere at The Walrus is part of its charm. It's a welcoming space that caters to a variety of needs. It can be a lively spot for an evening out, with live music on Fridays and Saturdays, but it's also a place where you can enjoy a quiet lunch when it's not crowded. The service is often described as great and friendly, with staff who are attentive and helpful. This balance of being both a bustling bar and a cozy restaurant is what makes it so appealing to a wide range of customers. It’s a great spot to watch a game on one of their many big-screen HD TVs, or to catch some live music without a cover charge.

The Walrus also has a dedicated and loyal following for its weekend brunch, served Saturday and Sunday from 11am-3pm. The brunch menu is a culinary adventure, featuring unique and creative dishes like the "El Morsa" (biscuits topped with eggs, fries, and Ohio chorizo gravy) and the "britney bit*h sandwich" (a fried egg, pastrami, and cheese on a croissant). These creative menu items demonstrate the kitchen's flair for adding a playful and delicious twist to traditional dishes. For those looking for something more classic, they also offer favorites like French toast, a breakfast sandwich, and a Belgian waffle. The brunch menu is a highlight for many locals, making it a must-try for a weekend outing.

In addition to its regular dining services, The Walrus also offers catering and private event planning, making it a versatile option for special occasions. The ability to cater parties and celebrations, from intimate get-togethers to larger events, adds another layer of value to this local business. The Walrus understands the needs of its community and goes beyond simply serving food and drinks. It provides a full-service experience, whether you're dining in, carrying out, or planning an event. The Walrus has truly established itself as a cornerstone of the downtown Columbus community.

Location and Accessibility

The Walrus is centrally located at 143 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA. Its prime downtown location makes it a convenient spot for those working in the area, residents of nearby German Village, and visitors exploring the city's core. The bar and grill is easily accessible on foot and by public transportation, with numerous bus routes running along Main Street and nearby High Street.

For those driving, parking can be found in nearby public garages and street parking is available in the surrounding area. The location is an "upscale dive bar" in a historic part of town, which adds to its character and makes it a great spot to meet up before or after an event at a nearby theater or concert venue. Its easy-to-find address ensures that both locals and tourists can locate it without any trouble.

Services Offered
  • Full-Service Dining: The Walrus serves delicious comfort food for lunch, dinner, and late-night, seven days a week.

  • Weekend Brunch: A popular weekend brunch menu is served on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-3pm, featuring unique and tasty dishes.

  • Extensive Bar: With 30 beers on tap and a full bar, The Walrus offers a wide selection of beverages, including craft beers, cocktails, and wines.

  • Live Music and Events: The Walrus hosts live music on Friday and Saturday nights with no cover charge, as well as Sporcle Trivia on Tuesdays and Karaoke on Wednesdays.

  • Carryout and Delivery: For added convenience, the restaurant offers carryout and delivery services, with the kitchen open until 1:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays.

  • Vegetarian and Vegan Options: The Walrus offers a variety of tasty vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring there is something for everyone on the menu.

Features and Highlights
  • Quality Comfort Food: Known for its flavorful, well-prepared dishes like Cajun pasta, chicken quesadillas, and house-made sliders.

  • Fast and Friendly Service: Customers frequently praise the staff for being friendly and providing quick service, even when the kitchen is busy.

  • Upscale Dive Bar Vibe: The unique atmosphere of the bar is a major draw, offering a cozy and inviting space that feels both classic and cool.

  • Great Drink Selection: The large number of beers on tap and a full bar make it a fantastic destination for a drink.

  • Diverse Entertainment: The Walrus offers a full calendar of events, including trivia and karaoke, that adds to its lively atmosphere.

Contact Information

Address: 143 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Phone: (614) 817-1710

Conclusion: Why The Walrus is Perfect for Locals

The Walrus stands out as a true gem in the downtown Columbus dining and nightlife scene. It strikes a perfect balance between a friendly neighborhood pub and a high-quality restaurant. The combination of delicious food, great service, a wide variety of drinks, and a lively atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for any occasion. For a local, The Walrus offers a reliable and comfortable place to grab a meal, whether it's a weekend brunch with friends or a late-night bite after a show.

The pub's commitment to offering vegetarian and vegan options, along with its full bar and diverse menu, ensures that it caters to a wide audience. The weekly events like trivia and karaoke also help build a sense of community, making it more than just a place to eat—it's a place to connect and have fun. The Walrus is a testament to the fact that great food and a welcoming environment are the cornerstones of a successful local business. For anyone in the Columbus area looking for a new favorite spot, The Walrus is a must-visit.

The Walrus Menu

  • Appetizers

  • Baked Wings US$22.50

    Choose from our house made sauces: Bourbon Buffalo, Buffalo, Spicy BBQ, Sweet Thai Chili & Garlic Parmesan. Served w/ bleu cheese & celery.

  • Nachos
  • Tres Amigos US$16.25
  • Tavern Pretzels US$12.50
  • Buffalo Ranch Sliders US$18.75

    Shredded buffalo chicken with cheddar & caramelized onions. Served with a side of house made ranch dressing.

  • Quesadilla

    Flour tortilla stuffed with cheddar, choice of protein, peppers & onions, black beans & corn mix and cilantro. Served with a side of sour cream and pico de Gallo.

  • Dip & Tortilla Chips
  • Short Rib Sliders US$20.00
  • Entrees

  • Lobster Mac & Cheese US$30.00
  • Veggie Bowl
  • Short Ribs US$30.00
  • Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo US$27.50
  • Cajun Chicken & Shrimp Pasta US$30.00

    Blackened Chicken, shrimp, rotini, and broccoli tossed in a creamy spicy Alfredo sauce.

  • Tres Tacos
  • Salads

  • Taco Salad US$18.75
  • Walrus Salad US$15.00
  • Caesar Salad US$15.00
  • Cobb Salad US$21.25
  • Chopped Salad US$15.00
  • Sides

  • Walrus Fries US$7.50
  • Sweet Potato Fries US$8.13
  • Coleslaw US$5.63
  • Broccoli US$7.50
  • Roasted Garlic Mash US$7.50
  • Side House Salad US$7.50
  • Side Caesar Salads US$7.50
  • Mac & Cheese US$7.50
  • Brussels Sprouts US$7.50
  • Extra Sauce US$0.63
  • Soups

  • Soup Of The Day
  • Spicy Veggie Chili
  • Sandwiches

  • Wallie Hoagie US$21.25

    Shaved and seasoned steak topped with cheddar, coleslaw & French fries on a hoagie roll, served with horseradish mayo.

  • Breaded Chicken Sandwich US$21.25

    Crispy fried chicken breast on a toasted bun with avocado, lettuce, onions, ranch & spicy BBQ.

  • Maple Burger US$22.50

    House made maple burger topped with candied bacon & havarti cheese.

  • Cheese Burger US$21.25

    Topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles & American cheese.

  • Veggie Burger US$17.00

    House made veggie patty topped with chipotle mayo, lettuce, tomato & onion.

  • Shrimp Po Boy US$22.50

    House-breaded shrimp on a hoagie roll with slaw, tomato, lettuce, citrus remoulade and Thai chili sauce.

  • Candied Bacon Grilled Cheese US$18.75

    Cheddar and candied bacon on toasted whole wheat bread with fresh tomato slices.

  • Hot Pastrami US$21.25

    Pastrami on toasted rye with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut & thousand island dressing.

  • Blackened Salmon Sandwich US$23.75

    Blackened salmon on a bun topped with lettuce blend, tomato, red onion & lemon dill aioli.

  • Lobster Rolls

    Chilled, house lobster salad on a buttered New England roll.

  • Flatbreads

  • Buffalo Chicken Flatbread US$18.75

    Grilled chicken, mozzarella, bleu cheese crumbles, buffalo sauce & celery.

  • Night Owl Flatbread US$18.75

    Pepperoni, mozzarella, basil & marinara.

  • BBQ Chicken Flatbread US$18.75

    Grilled Chicken, bacon bits, mozarella, scallions & BBQ sauce.

  • Tomato Basil Flatbread US$18.75

    Mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, garlic oil & basil.

  • BYO Flatbread US$18.75
  • Ala Carte'

  • Avocado Slices US$3.00
  • Bacon US$5.00
  • Burger Patty US$6.00
  • Breaded Chicken Breast US$6.00
  • Candied Bacon US$5.50
  • Egg US$6.00
  • Fried Egg US$2.00
  • Garlic Texas Toast US$2.00
  • Grilled Chicken Breast US$6.00
  • Lobster US$10.00
  • Maple Burger Patty US$7.00
  • Pickel Spear US$0.75
  • Piece Of Salmon US$7.00
  • Scoop Of Lobster Salad US$8.00
  • Short Rib US$8.00
  • Shrimp US$7.00
  • Tofu US$5.00
  • Veggie Burger Patty US$6.00
  • Chorizo US$6.00
  • Dressings

  • Caesar Dressing US$0.50
  • 1000 Island Dressing US$0.50
  • Ranch US$0.50
  • Bleu Cheese US$0.50
  • Buffalo Sauce US$0.50
  • Bourbon Buffalo US$0.50
  • Garlic Parmesan US$0.50
  • Spicy BBQ US$0.50
  • Horsey Mayo US$0.50
  • Sweet Thai Chili US$0.50
  • Tartar Sauce US$0.50
  • Honey Mustard US$0.50
  • Pesto US$0.50
  • Raspberry Vinaigrette US$0.50
  • Marinara US$0.50
  • Sour Cream US$0.50
  • Chipotle Mayo US$0.50
  • Mayo US$0.50
  • Golden Balsamic US$0.50
  • Cashew Butter US$0.50
  • Brown Gravy US$0.50
  • Lemon Aioli US$0.50
  • Pico
  • Guac
  • Queso
  • Citrus Remoulade US$0.50
  • Side Of Afredo Sauce US$1.00
  • Side Of Spicy Alfredo Sauce US$1.00

The Walrus Details

  • From the business

  • Identifies as women-owned
  • Service options

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

  • Bar games
  • Fast service
  • Fireplace
  • Great beer selection
  • Great cocktails
  • Great wine list
  • Karaoke
  • Live music
  • Live performances
  • Quiz night
  • Serves local specialty
  • Sport
  • Popular for

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining
  • Accessibility

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

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Dancing
  • Food
  • Food at bar
  • Happy-hour drinks
  • Happy-hour food
  • Late-night food
  • Private dining room
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Spirits
  • Vegan options
  • Vegetarian options
  • Wine
  • Dining options

  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Counter service
  • Dessert
  • Outside food allowed
  • Seating
  • Table service
  • Amenities

  • Bar on site
  • Toilet
  • Wi-Fi
  • Wi-Fi
  • Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cosy
  • Trendy
  • Crowd

  • Family friendly
  • Groups
  • Tourists
  • University students
  • Planning

  • Accepts reservations
  • Payments

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

  • High chairs
  • Kids' menu
  • Parking

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

  • Dogs allowed outside

The Walrus Photos

The Walrus Picture 1The Walrus Picture 2The Walrus Picture 3The Walrus Picture 4The Walrus Picture 5The Walrus Picture 6The Walrus Picture 7The Walrus Picture 8The Walrus Picture 9The Walrus Picture 10

The Walrus Location

The Walrus

143 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

The Walrus Reviews

An average rating of ★4.4 from 2699 user reviews.

lobster rollsbrunchping pongperogieslobster mac and cheesecandied baconpastrami sandwichgame roommaple burgershort rib sliders

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

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