Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar

- 278 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43201

For those in Ohio looking for a quintessential American dining and social experience, particularly with a strong connection to collegiate spirit, Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar in Columbus is a landmark destination. Established in 1959, this iconic spot, located directly across from The Ohio State University, has become synonymous with friendly service, a comfortable atmosphere, and delicious American comfort food. It's a place where generations of Buckeye fans, locals, and visitors alike have gathered to enjoy good food, good company, and the vibrant energy of Columbus. Whether you're catching a game, meeting friends for happy hour, or simply seeking a welcoming spot for a meal, Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar offers a slice of local tradition and hospitality.

Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar is conveniently located at 278 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43201, USA. Its prime position directly across from The Ohio State University campus, and just steps from Ohio Stadium ("The Shoe"), makes it incredibly accessible for a wide range of patrons. For residents in Ohio, particularly in the Columbus area, reaching the Varsity Club is straightforward. Lane Avenue is a major thoroughfare, and the restaurant is easily identifiable. While street parking can sometimes be competitive in a university area, especially on game days, there are usually various parking options nearby, including public lots and garages. The location's proximity to the OSU campus also means it's well-served by local bus routes, offering a convenient alternative for those who prefer public transportation. This central and vibrant location makes Varsity Club a natural gathering point for both the university community and the broader Columbus populace.

Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar provides a comprehensive range of services, designed to cater to both individual diners and larger groups, enhancing its appeal as a versatile local establishment.

• Dine-in Service: The restaurant offers a comfortable and lively atmosphere for customers to enjoy their meals on-site, whether in the main dining area or at the bar.
• Takeout Service: For those who prefer to enjoy their favorite dishes at home or on the go, Varsity Club provides convenient takeout options.
• Online Ordering and Delivery: The restaurant offers online ordering through its website and partnerships with delivery services like Grubhub and Seamless, making it easy to enjoy their menu from the comfort of your home or office.
• Private Party and Event Hosting: Varsity Club has facilities and services to host private parties and various events, including anniversaries, birthdays, bridal showers, business functions, family reunions, graduations, and holiday parties. They can provide a "warm, elegant atmosphere" for such occasions.
• Bar Service: As a restaurant and bar, they offer a full bar service with a selection of beers (including many on tap), wines, and spirits.
• Game Day Experience: They are particularly known for their lively atmosphere on Ohio State Buckeyes game days, with ample TVs for watching sports and a dedicated patio space.
• Catering: While not explicitly detailed as a separate service, their ability to host private parties implies some form of food service for groups, potentially extending to external catering for events.

Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar stands out due to several key features and highlights that have cemented its status as a beloved institution in Columbus, Ohio. These attributes contribute to its enduring popularity and positive customer experiences.

• Iconic Ohio State University Connection: Established in 1959, Varsity Club is an "iconic Ohio State restaurant & bar" and a "true landmark in Columbus." Its direct proximity to OSU and Ohio Stadium makes it an integral part of the Buckeye game day experience, attracting generations of fans and fostering a strong sense of community. The lively decor is "adorned with memorabilia that pays homage to local legends."
• Friendly and Attentive Service: Consistently highlighted in reviews, the staff is described as "friendly," "personable," and "beyond friendly." Customers like Joe have made diners "feel right at home" and "took good care of us." This commitment to customer service ensures a welcoming and comfortable experience.
• Comfortable and Lively Atmosphere: The restaurant offers a "comfortable atmosphere" that can be "exhilarating," especially for sports enthusiasts. It's known for its "lively decor" and "ample seating both indoors and on the outdoor patio," which provides "stunning views overlooking campus life." It's described as a "great game day bar" that "buzzes with fans hours before kickoff."
• Delicious American Pub Fare: The menu features a variety of classic pub fare, including "mouth-watering pizzas, savory wings, burgers, and salads." A particular highlight is their "Hot Italian Sub," which one reviewer called "so damn good" and an "unchanged" "Varsity Club tradition for 65 years," featuring bread from a local Italian bakery. Other popular items include chicken tenders, various burgers (Southern, Blue Cheeseburger, Chipotle Black Bean), and a selection of salads. They also offer a 10" gluten-free cheese pizza option.
• Reasonable Prices: Despite its prime location and popularity, customers frequently highlight the "reasonable prices" for the quality and quantity of food offered, making it a popular and accessible choice.
• Expansive Drink Selection: The bar features "plenty of your favorite beers on tap," contributing to its reputation as a great spot for social gatherings and game day celebrations. They also have "happy hour deals with surprisingly cheap draft beer and appetizers."
• Outdoor Patio: The outdoor patio is a significant feature, providing a great space for social gatherings, especially on game days, with views of campus.

For inquiries, reservations for private parties, or to place an order, you can contact Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar using the following information:

Address: 278 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43201, USA

Phone: (614) 299-6269

Mobile Phone: +1 614-299-6269

Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar is an excellent choice for locals in Ohio, particularly those in Columbus, for a multitude of reasons. Its status as an established institution since 1959, deeply rooted in the Ohio State University community, offers a unique sense of history and belonging. For fans of American comfort food, the menu provides classic pub fare, with standout items like the highly praised Hot Italian Sub and various pizzas, burgers, and wings, ensuring there's something to satisfy diverse cravings. The "friendly service" and "comfortable atmosphere" consistently highlighted by patrons create a welcoming environment, making it a great spot for casual meals, family outings, or social gatherings. Moreover, its prime location directly across from OSU makes it an unparalleled destination for game days, offering a lively and spirited experience with ample viewing options. The "reasonable prices" further enhance its appeal, providing good value for quality food and an engaging atmosphere. Whether you're an OSU alumnus, a current student, or simply a Columbus resident seeking a dependable and friendly spot for American cuisine and a good time, Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar embodies the spirit of local hospitality and is a true gem in the Ohio dining scene.

Varsity Club Restaurant & Bar

278 W Lane Ave, Columbus, OH 43201, USA