When you choose Diamond Cellar, you’re not just getting the best – you’re joining a legacy of trust, care, and dedication ; all at the GUARANTEED LOWEST PRICE . From our family to yours, we’re honored to be part of your most cherished moments.
Thank you, Central Ohio, for making our 50th anniversary year a true celebration! As we close out this milestone year, we’re looking toward an even brighter future — building a more connected region for generations to come.
Ice Bumper cars in action at Land-Grant Brewing Co.’s Wintergarden, which is complete with igloos, keg curling and will return for 2024-2025. Photo courtesy of Land-Grant Brewing Co.
Do you want to know a secret?
JACK MCLAUGHLIN Editor-In-Chief
Of course you do. We all do, even if we “Swear we’re not into gossip like everyone else.”
I mean, just the word itself has an unmistakable allure. “Secret.” It’s dangerous, serpentine, vaguely sensual, even. Whenever we learn a secret, or find a secret spot, there’s mystery and exclusivity all swirling together in a daring little package.
It’s something that’s always been difficult to manage for me, too, because secrecy, like the idea of being cool, is by its very nature exclusive. It’s built on relativity: If everyone were cool, nobody would be cool. If everyone knew the secret, it wouldn’t be a secret.
But we’re humans, we’re imperfect, and we like being cool. We like knowing the secret. I know I do.
Speakeasies, the focus of our December issue, are built around this premise. You can get a drink anywhere, but when you feel like you’re part of a—here’s that word again—secret club, it’s a lot more fun.
I know what you’re going to say here: Isn’t that fun at the expense of someone else, the people not in the club, those who aren’t in on the secret?
While there are a handful of concepts in our Columbus speakeasy guide that are private and membership-based, the majority of them aren’t, and are simply first-come, first-served.
And I think there's something special going on in these cases. Sure, it's not usually productive to lie to yourself, but in some cases—for just a single night out, sometimes—we can convince ourselves the (actually public) speakeasy we’re holed up in is clandestine and entirely exclusive.
Because sometimes, a rosy sheen across the world is exactly what we need, especially if it’s one without any real consequences.
So enjoy our December issue, Columbus, while we take you on a tour of Arch City speakeasies, while we convince ourselves we’re holed up in a prohibition era-basement for a night, or pretend we’re all A-lister – while we let you in on a few of our little secrets.
Whether you were born and bred in the Buckeye state or adopted it as your own, you know there's something special here.
From our farmers to our food makers, everyone takes pride in what they do.
Look for the Ohio Proud logo when shopping and you'll know you've found a highquality product, made from the freshest Ohio ingredients.
Scan to find Ohio Proud products, local farmers’ markets & restaurants cooking up homegrown love.
We may or may not have opened our own speakeasy inside of our office here at (614) Magazine…Just one problem though – we can’t all agree on a collective secret word to get in. Here’s our staff’s picks of what they’d set their speakeasy password to:
Ham.
—Mindy Whilhite, Senior Account Executive
I’m a Leo so it would probably be “Lizzy is the prettiest in all the land.”
— Lizzy Saunders, Events Coordinator & Brand Manager for (614) Lager
I’m a fan of Lizzy so it would also probably be “Lizzy is the prettiest in all the land.”
— Sav McKee, Assistant Editor
SweaterWeather.
— Jack McLaughlin
Seven.
— Paul VanHorn, Sales Manager
The bird wets its beak.
— Andrew Thomas, Creative Coordinator
Password.
— Tori Smith, Creative Designer
Arlo McNugget.
— Emma Mortellaro, Marketing Manager
Dracarys.
— Austin Black, Video Producer & Editor
Mine would be the first verse of “Memory” from Cats The Musical (whiskers and cat ears optional but highly encouraged).
— Meghan Chapman, Account Executive
Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.
— Wyatt Krupp, Account Executive
Do you check your news and entertainment updates on 614now.com? You should. Every day we’re posting Columbus’ top news, entertainment, and sports stories from throughout Central Ohio. Check out all the Columbus news online, including the new ones below at 614now.com and subscribe to our daily email!
→ LA-based donut chain opening first Central Ohio location next month
The mochi takeover of Columbus continues. After announcing its plans to open a Grandview storefront this summer, the mochi donut chain Mochinut plans to open its doors in mid-December.
→ Owner of Veritas & Speck opening another Downtown restaurant
The corner of High & Gay St. has seen quite a transformation in the past decade. Veritas, The Citizen’s Trust, Speck, Hank’s Seafood, Chouette…and now, Rosalita is joining the team.
→ Ohio city makes it on esteemed international list of ‘25 Best Places to Travel in 2025’
What do the Great Barrier Island in New Zealand, the charming Greek island, Chios, and Columbus, Ohio all have in common? They’re 2025’s hottest travel destinations.
@wherethefuckshouldieat
@the.everwoods
@arthurgphotography
@eastontownctr
@thatsandwichdude
Did you know that (614) has a YouTube channel with some very shareable video content? It’s true. Keep an eye out for more on our (614) Columbus account and on social media. In the meantime, scan the QR code to check out our newest videos.
• A Bonded History | Sip & Stay
In
& Stay
for
the
Walking the line between strange and lovable, the Columbus holiday tradition of Mr. Tree gets a new life this season
Ask just about any local resident of a certain age about Christmastime at the Downtown Lazarus store and you’re likely to hear the most amazing recollections of holiday windows with colorful, animated displays; the sixth-floor toy department; the “real” Santa Claus and his lovely helpers, the Santa Belles.
But few Lazarus holiday memories seem to generate as many reactions as Mr. Tree, a “talking oak” that sang and told jokes to kids. If you were lucky, he might even “taste” you with his long, silky tongue and tell you what “flavor” you were. (Strawberry seemed to be the most common, perhaps followed by peppermint.)
Now, almost 40 years after he took his last nap (snoring all the time), Mr. Tree is back, thanks to the Greater Columbus Library and a local artist who, by sheer luck, discovered the original one a couple of years ago.
“A friend of mine called to say he would be handling an estate sale for the son of Gordon Keith,” said Todd Reed. “Gordon Keith was a highly respected local artist who made Mr. Tree and also the huge, outdoor nativity scene that’s on display every year on East Broad Street, Downtown. The remains of Mr. Tree’s face was among the items to be sold.”
Reed continued, “I had no idea it still existed, and I became very passionate about it because I loved the talking tree when I was little. As a special effects artist, I had to have this thing and see if I could put it back together.” Reed struck a friendship with Gordon Keith’s son, Greg Keith, and the latter was making arrangements to give Reed the original tree. Before Reed and the younger Keith could close the deal, however, Greg Keith died. Then, the basement of the home he shared with his girlfriend flooded.
“She called me one day to deliver the bad news and to say I could have the tree if I wanted it,” Reed said. “When I looked in the box, I found a badly damaged, latex-coated face, full of chips and cracks. It was definitely Mr. Tree. But what to do with it?”
Reed has been well known in the local arts scene for years. He started in fine arts, taught a class at Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD) and helped develop an arts course at Fort Hayes. Later, he began working in special effects, and today owns Steam-Powered SFX Productions, which builds elaborate props for COSI, Halloween haunted houses and amusement parks.
The special effects master recreated Mr. Tree’s face by first creating a mold of the original. For the trunk, he relied on old photos and his own childhood memories. The new trunk, like the original, is about six feet tall, six feet in diameter and open at the back, to allow Mr. Tree’s human helpers to enter and leave. The prop is then strategically placed against a doorway or curtain, preventing anyone from seeing how the “magic” happens.
No one seems to know exactly when the talking tree, sometimes referred to as “Mr. Woody,” made his first appearance. But Angela O’Neal, local history manager at the Greater Columbus Library, believes he was on display from the 1950s to perhaps the early 1990s. Columbus interior designer Chris King, now 62, was attending Ohio State University in 1986 when a fellow, part-time landscaper told him about a seasonal job at Lazarus he might be interested in. “So, I went Downtown to fill out an application,” King said. “A Mrs. Applebaum said she thought I had a good personality, and that was it. I was ‘Mr. Tree’ for the next two years.” Actually, King said, there were several young men who played the role, usually working in one- or two-hour shifts.
A lot of the helpers’ work was ad libbed. “I would tell jokes and sing Christmas songs,” King added. He remembered singing ‘Jingle Bells’ a lot. “Santa’s helpers – I think they were called ‘Santa Belles’ – would have the children come to me and sit on the floor. I would pretend to be asleep” King recalled.
Mr. Tree was built so that his “helper” could move his upper lip and wiggle his huge nose just a little. That’s all it took to make believers of all the little ones who came to see him.
The “tasting” part? No one has come forward to claim that bit of the act as their own idea. But it happened. King or whoever was
the
inside
trunk would don a pink stocking on one hand, stick it out of the tree’s “mouth,” and ask a child to come closer. King or another helper would “lick” the child’s face or head and proclaim something to the effect of, “I think you’re strawberry!”
That little stunt didn’t always go according to plan, though. Some helpers have said a little one might occasionally try pulling Mr. Tree’s tongue out of his trunk. King also remembers a few children being more frightened than charmed by the sight of the six-foot plastic oak with its bulging eyes and other exaggerated facial features. “But,” he said, “most of them really enjoyed it. And that made me love it, too.”
Artist Reed feels much the same way. “Going Downtown to see Mr. Tree was a huge part of my childhood,” he said. “So, when I heard about him being found, I knew I had to do this for the public.”
The public got its first official look at the recreated “Mr. Tree” on November 20th in the atrium of the Downtown library, where he will be on display through the holidays and, perhaps, in the years to come. Everyone is invited to see this piece of rediscovered Columbus history and learn about its history.
Renowned Columbus photographer Kate Sweeney creates dreamy, humancentric work
By Alex Lewis
Story Design by Bryce Patterson
Even on the darkest of days, Kate Sweeney still believes in the power of her art. The 37-year-old queer photographer, born and raised in the Columbus suburb of Hilliard, settled into a tiny table at Qahwah House and discussed the portraits she captures of mostly women and femmes, often inviting them to be at home within nature and their bodies.
“I feel like there’s no better time,” said Sweeney. “We just need to keep making more of this kind of work. It's the way that we keep resisting. It's the way that we keep healing
through this climate of so much trying to control and disempower women. What better time?”
This understanding of Sweeney’s photography as political, even when that is not always her intention, is an acknowledgement that women’s bodies are inherently political.
The Hilliard Davidson alum, who often utilizes nudity in her work, speaks candidly about the self-portraits she took in high school as a way for her to share her “experience as a teenage girl becoming a young woman and constantly being sexualized.” →
"It felt like the most natural, comfortable, way for me to express myself."
“It was a way for me to regain some autonomy over my body,” explained Sweeney. She later added, “When you grew up in the 90s and before, you were fed all these images of women that were so not real. And I think there's still such a need for that exploration, especially from the perspective of such an impressionable age of a woman.”
Fascinated with photography from a young age, Sweeney started to see taking photos as a career she could pursue when her mother went back to college to study graphic design in her 30s. Sometimes, Sweeney would skip school and tag along to classes at The Ohio State University with her mom.
“I think seeing her pursue a career in art made me be like, ‘Oh, wait. I could totally do that, too,’” shared Sweeney.
When reflecting on those trips with her mom, Sweeney especially remembers hanging out in the darkroom where students would process film. Luckily, her high school also had one.
While Sweeney credits her art teacher for helping to keep her engaged in school, which she dreaded at the time, Sweeney also took portraits of herself and her friends. In her words, “It felt like the most natural, comfortable, way for me to express myself.”
With dreams of being a fashion photographer, Sweeney moved to New York City after high school to attend an art college, but quickly found herself back in Columbus.
“The whole experience failed miserably in a way that I'm so appreciative of now because it brought me back here,” said Sweeney.
“I feel like, growing up in the suburbs of Columbus, most people want to get out, especially if you're a creative person,” added Sweeney. “You're like, ‘I can't wait to get the f*** out of here.’ But I'm so glad I came back.” →
While Sweeney initially resisted this return to Columbus, often telling people she was planning on going back to New York and even putting her photography career on pause for a while, she eventually decided to take a selfportrait every day for a year.
“It instilled this discipline in me, and then I felt more confident telling people I'm a photographer,” said Sweeney. “Instead of being like, ‘I really like taking photos,’ I was like, ‘No, I'm a photographer.’ I'm doing it. And then, over time, this career started building [in Columbus]. And I'm so glad it's here. It just makes so much sense. It was totally meant to be.”
Sweeney’s self-portraits also helped her see her body in a new way and turn her gaze to others. “I feel like I can help facilitate that for other people because I've experienced it,” she said.
Sweeney continued, “I want to help facilitate this potentially transformative experience where seeing photos of yourself from someone else's eye can completely change the way you look at your body, the way you look at who you are on so many different levels.”
In addition to portrait sessions with folks in Columbus, Sweeney has been able to help others see the beauty in themselves through her commercial work with clients like Highlights for Children, magazine shoots with artists, such as Hanif Abdurraqib (Poets & Writers) and Michael Marcagi (Billboard Magazine), and her photobook, Residence, published by The Photographic Journal earlier this year.
Hosted at the Sarah Gormley Gallery during the month of September, Sweeney’s latest exhibit, “Hiding in Plain Sight,” turned the camera back on her and reminded her of the self-portraits she took in high school.
“It was a way for me to tell my story in a more intimate way where it's like, ‘Yeah, I come from a painful place, too,’” said Sweeney.
As she looks ahead, Sweeney wants to take that pain and transform it into beauty. “I don't want my photos to be sexy; I want them to be beautiful,” she shared. “I don't know what next year will bring at all, but let’s transmute shit and make it beautiful.” ♦
The new host of The Green Room podcast
Kristina Duong embraces cannabis as a parent and professional, even in the face of negativity
By Jack McLaughlin / Photos by Sarah Pfeifer
Design by Andrew Thomas
Kristina Pham Duong is a woman of many titles: mother, successful professional and cofounder of a thriving local business.
Another title you may not expect—but one she’s not ashamed of—is cannabis enthusiast. When her son was born, Duong, who created the popular ice cream shop CRMD alongside her husband Ben Stoyka, struggled intensely with postpartum depression.
“It hit me like a truck,” she said.
Duong tried a variety of more traditional depression treatments, but none of them seemed to work for her. Desperate for relief, she turned to cannabis.
“I started to microdose THC and I haven't looked back. It's helped me in more ways than I could imagine,” she said.
Today, Duong has embraced cannabis as a tool for depression, but also recreationally, where it helps her relax and be more present in daily life. And despite the stigma, she’s not afraid to publicly embrace it.
She plans to use The Green Room as a platform to discuss all things cannabis, especially as it relates to parenting, mental health, and stereotypes, so lookout for future episodes.
“I'M OPEN WITH MY USE OF CANNABIS... I HOPE TO ADVOCATE FOR PARENTS OR ANYONE REALLY, HOW CANNABIS HAS A SEAT AT THE TABLE.”
Give the gift of film to a special person in your life! Drexel gift cards are the perfect treat for any night out on the town. Gift cards are good for any in-person films, memberships, and concessions at the theatre.
Visit the box office or www.drexel.net to learn more.
Share the magic of custom fragrance this holiday season!
A Penn & Beech gift card is the perfect gift for everyone on your list. You don't have to choose between gifting an experience and gifting a physical item - the pour your own candle experience is both! Stop into a shop to purchase a physical gift card, or purchase an electronic one on our website that can be emailed directly to your recipient.
Price: starting at $24
Have yourself a Cameron Mitchell Restaurants holiday! Receive a $25 bonus card reward for every $100 in gift cards purchased from November 11-December 30, 2024.
Details at ShopCameronMitchell.com
Unwrap relaxation this holiday season with Ebb & Float’s signature package for just $99! Valued at $145 in spa services this package includes (1) 15-minute massage chair, (1) 60-minute float therapy session, and (1) 30-minute infrared sauna. Booking is available at Ebb & Float’s Downtown and Polaris locations.
Scan the QR code for more information!
This holiday, give the gift of an everlasting experience at Bella Piercing, an upscale piercing shop located in Gahanna, Ohio. We offer needle-only piercings for all ages. Spend $100 on gift cards and receive an extra $25 all December long. Call or visit us today to treat someone special this season!
Scan the QR code for more information!
Magpie Market is an independent, woman owned business started by two best friends with a love for antique and vintage décor. We have 25 carefully curated vendors who each bring their own unique perspective to today’s design aesthetics. Visit us for one of a kind Holiday gifts and décor.
Scan the QR code for more information!
Winans has gifts for everyone. Stocking stuffers, corporate gifts, hosting gifts, we have the perfect gift for all your holiday needs. For $42.95 The Simply Sweet Gift Box is filled with a 6-piece box of Chocolates, our Winans Mini Wetzels, Caramel Kisses, a chocolatecovered graham cracker and a special chocolate covered Oreo. Let Winans take care of all your Holiday gifting!
Scan the QR code for more information!
We're celebrating 75 years of Columbus-style pizza at Massey's Pizza!
Famous for our "Cadillac of Pizza" with 155 pieces of pepperoni, we've been a local favorite for decades. To mark this milestone, we're offering exclusive anniversary merchandise. Grab limited-edition gear and join us in celebrating 75 years of legendary pizza!
Scan the QR code for more information!
This season, support local, fresh, and authentic independent businesses at your North Market!
Where else can you buy one-of-a-kind gifts, shop a wide selection of fresh food for holiday meals, and even get lunch -or- dinner (libations, too!) all while supporting local merchants right here in central Ohio? North Market Downtown and North Market Bridge Park have all of this and more for you to enjoy this holiday season!
Scan the QR code for more information!
Check Out Golden Hobby Gift Shop
Golden Hobby Gift Shop is a senior arts and consignment shop that offers an array of handmade goods for sale, including quilts, ceramics, woodcrafts, paintings and more, all made by Columbus-area seniors. Make this your Holiday shopping destination!
Scan the QR code for more information!
museumstore.columbusmuseum.org
Shopping local just got a whole lot easier!
Not Your Mama’s Craft Market is a beloved must-visit spot for unique, locally sourced gifts. Throughout November and December, enjoy four Holiday market pop-ups across central Ohio - each one offering a unique atmosphere and showcasing hundreds of the very best small businesses.
Scan the QR code for more information!
DECEMBER 8 3p-8p German Village Lights | Schiller Park
DECEMBER 15 11a-4p
BrewDog | Canal Winchester
Katalina's has sold over a million orders of Pancake Balls™ since its opening. And yes – that item is trademarked, solidifying Katalina’s importance in forever changing the Columbus brunch game. Beyond the most popular offering on the menu, each location is known for its colorful murals, freshly prepared ingredients, and general good vibes.
Kathleen Day, the founder and owner of Katalina’s cafés, was originally inspired to open a restaurant while spending part of her twenties cooking in France. After working at a small French restaurant, and then as an assistant cook for a countess in Paris, she quickly fell in love with creating high quality food. At the time, organic ingredients weren’t as prevalent in the states as in France and other parts of Europe. Day wanted to change that –and she did.
Born from historic sites and creative eats, Katalina’s new third location is already a pillar of the Bexley community
By Jordan Abbruzzese
In addition to a commitment to a strong menu, every Katalina’s building has a story that takes on a new life with the restaurant. Opting against a new build, Day prefers a location with history.
“I love respecting old buildings, and Katalina’s brand goes hand-in-hand with that,” Day said.
After all, the first Katalina’s location in the Harrison West neighborhood opened almost 15 years ago in what may be the oldest standing gas station in Columbus. The second location, Katalina’s Too, opened in 2019 in an intimate Clintonville midcentury modern building, a theme that is reflected throughout the restaurant. As Day looked to open a third location in Bexley, a building that was formerly a Boston Market and a Dairy Queen with its own parking lot called her name. After wanting to be a part of the Bexley neighborhood for years, Day felt like it was meant to be. →
Katalina’s Tres, now open at 2741 E. Main St., will be known for integrating itself into Bexley’s already strong community, while offering the atmosphere that only a Katalina’s restaurant can. Their motto, “Live, Love Local” has inspired every aspect of this third location, as Day and her team worked diligently with artists and bakers who call Bexley home.
“Bexley has bent over backwards to make me feel welcome,” Day happily explained. “They’re very community-focused.”
From the custom-built tables to lighting fixtures that may or may not have been in an old Star Wars movie (per the online retailer’s lore), Katalina’s Tres has the aesthetic of a pristine 1940s office meets hometown hangout without losing the feeling that we have come to know and love from the other two locations.
Day usually decorates the cafés herself, handpicking vintage pieces that align with the Katalina’s brand. For Katalina’s Tres, she wanted to work with a local designer. Day reached out to Ricky and Kathy Gonzalez of “Artdozo Creative Services,” who reside in Bexley, to help her curate the look for this new location.
“Bexley has bent over backwards to make me feel welcome. They’re very community-focused.”
“I really wanted to use old bowling alley lanes for tables,” Day laughed. “We couldn’t find any that were the right dimensions, so he [Ricky Gonzalez] created them. There are a lot of little surprises like that in this new location.”
The local collaboration didn’t stop at just the decor. Making its way onto the menu with a new offering that is exclusive to Katalina’s Tres is the “Bexley Shakshuka Brekkie Sammy,” inspired by traditional Jewish cuisine and created by Day in partnership with Bexley-based chef Dara Schwartz.
“I consulted with her specifically because I wanted to ensure that the sandwich would resonate with the predominantly Jewish community in Bexley,” Day mentioned. “And the bagels for the sandwich are locally made and provided by Sammy’s New York Bagels – also located on the East Side of Columbus.” →
Katalina’s traditional menu is Latin-leaning with a Southern flair, only elevated by this new addition. The shakshuka breakfast sandwich is a love letter to multiple cultures, with a Katalina’s twist. It features a poached egg topped with the popular Middle Eastern condiment zhug (a spicy cilantro-based sauce), tomato-pepper sauce, and queso fresco over a potato latke base, made from Katalina’s popular purple potato hash. Of course, this is all nestled by a locally made bagel from Sammy’s.
The Katalina’s brand is also known for their murals, and this new third location is no different. Along the outside walls is artwork new and exclusive to Katalina’s Tres, including a portrait of Kathleen Day herself juggling her famous Pancake Balls™ with the words “Let’s play ball, Bexley!” designed and painted by local artist Helen Myers. Other Columbus-based creators contributed to the murals, including Ricky Gonzalez, Katalina’s own digital artists, and a very talented Bexley High School student Katalina connected with online. An experienced chalk artist designed their menu boards, with everything down to the various coffee and housemade horchata offerings in the fridge all beautifully laid out with small, detailed lettering.
At the center of Katalina’s Tres is the heartbeat of Bexley and Columbus’ local artist community, coming together to further Katalina’s curation of “Little Cafés with Lots of Local Goodness™” in a new (to them) space. Kathleen is ecstatic to finally open her doors to her neighbors, and become a central gathering hub for the area.
“Have you ever been to Guiseppi’s Ritrovo in Bexley?”
Day asked, referencing the classic Italian restaurant. “If you go in at night, the whole community is there. Literally everyone knows everyone. I am looking forward to that at Katalina’s Tres. I really love that neighborhood feel and think it will be a new spot like that in Bexley.” ♦
Katalina’s Tres is now open at 2741 E. Main St. in the heart of Bexley, every day from 8am-3pm.
Shhhhhh. It’s a secret. Or more accurately, there are a lot of secrets. From hidden post office doors to walk-in cooler entrances, the world of Columbus speakeasies and hidden bars is cryptic and moody and, well, kind of awesome.
Our cover section explores the city’s speakeasies, a world where experience and atmosphere are just as important as the drinks, which aren’t too shabby either.
So grab your trenchcoat and a hat that hides your face as we slip away into Columbus speakeasies. →
Your guide to Columbus speakeasies and hidden basement bars
BENEATH MIKEY’S LATE NIGHT SLICE
457 N. High St.
Sometimes, the last place you’d think to look is where you should have started all along. In the case of Sacred Palm, a neon-lit tiki lounge stashed underneath the High Street location of Mikey’s Late Night Slice, this is truer than ever.
Patrons walk down a set of stairs into a space that’s small but packed with character, including a wash of purple neon and throwback tiki decorations, plus plenty of island-inspired drinks to match. Sacred Palm offers cocktails including the Pirate’s Palm (Bacardi Superior, lime, pineapple, passionfruit, bitters and a 151 float), Ghost Coast (Corazón Reposado, Giffard Banana, Lemon, Agave, & Biters), canned wines, bottles and more.
You can even rent the 35-person space for your own private event, if you’re feeling particularly tropical.
CONNECTED TO BODEGA 1044 N. High St.
We probably all remember the parties thrown in someone’s apartment back in our college days. What if we told you that type of fun never has to end?
The owner of the Columbus nightlife cornerstone, Bodega, has launched a new speakeasy concept from the inside of a converted Short North apartment, properly named Apt. B. Just beyond the kitchen walls of Bodega, you’ll find a modern speakeasy infused with Art Deco touches –think leather seating and vintage glassware, but with more contemporary neon signs and cocktails.
With a capacity of just fifty guests, Apt B. is perfect for a couple of cocktails before or after dinner—or for a small private party. And when it’s full, put your name on the waitlist and grab a drink or a snack at Bodega.
“A lot of the cocktails are just kind of fun riffs, obviously based off of the apartment theme that we're going for back here,” Beverage Director Garrett Tansel explained. “Classic pre-Prohibition cocktails—more light expression, if you will. A lot of focus on glassware, a lot of garnishes that you don't necessarily see. Fun flowers, edible glitter, different fun syrups that we all make in-house.”
THE SECOND FLOOR OF 463 N. High St.
This is the place that taught us to not judge a book by its cover. Or in this case, a speakeasy bar by its location (second floor building in the Short North, right above a burger restaurant).
Denmark on High serves some of the best, curated cocktails in the entire city, and somehow, season after season, their drinks only get better and more unique. Denmark on High prides itself on making as many ingredients in-house as possible, such as all of their infusions, cordials, syrups, bitters, and tinctures.
If you’re in the mood for something more exclusive, but not a bar found in the basement somewhere, this is the place for you. Try their Darth Figious, with fig cognac, turbinado, angostura, orange bitters, and green chartreuse, or stay warm with their rum-forward cocktail called the Spirit of the Seven Seas, boasting two different rums, with orgeat, pimento dram, guava juice, fassionoia, and angostura.
HIDDEN AWAY BEHIND THE COCA-COLA VENDING MACHINE
5915 Evans Farm Dr. Suite G, Lewis Center
Go to grab a drink from the Coke machine in the Lewis Center location of CRMD, and you’re likely going to encounter a bit more than you bargained for. That’s because the popular ice cream spot–which also operates a Short North location–has a hidden speakeasy in its new Central Ohio storefront.
The entrance? You guessed it – hidden directly behind the drinkslinging machine.
As self-proclaimed 90s kids, CRMD founders Ben Stoyka and Kristina Duong embraced their favorite formative decade head-on, creating a speakeasy space with dedicated 90s and early 2000s vibes. The secret spot is complete with neon, inflatable furniture and period bops from the likes of Justin Timberlake playing from a set of speakers.
And before you ask, yes, you’re allowed to buy ice cream from the front of the store and bring it to the speakeasy to create a delicious, booze-infused dessert.
(MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED)
Columbus and Dublin locations
If you couldn’t tell by the name, No Soliciting embraces the exclusivity of the speakeasy concept with gusto. The cryptic concept lacks any social media pages, and its website simply depicts a rotary phone and a tab for members to click.
A Rise Brands concept (the group behind Pins Mech. Co., 16-Bit Bar & Arcade), No Soliciting boasts locations in both Columbus and Dublin, and each one is—true to form— deliberately shrouded in a bit of mystery.
Both locations focus on craft cocktails, especially those that highlight rare bourbon. Additionally, No Soliciting prioritizes member experience, noting in its membership information that no cash is ever exchanged, and tipping is not allowed.
Speaking of membership, the annual dues are $1,500, according to the concept’s website.
BEHIND A HIDDEN DOOR ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF EAST MARKET
212 Kelton Ave.
While you no longer need a password to get into this hidden joint, you do need sharp enough eyes to find the door. Once you do, you’re transported to an 18th century speakeasy, complete with exposed brick and an incredibly rare selection of bourbon.
The charming speakeasy features only five barstools, but plenty of table seating plus a leather sofa. You might just have the best Old Fashioned of your life here. If you can find it, that is.
BASEMENT OF FORNO
721 N. High St.
Who needs a trip to Vail this winter when there’s a hidden bar underneath Forno that resembles a holiday chalet? The Forno Speakeasy opened a year ago, modeled after the secret bars in the Prohibition-era, and starting on November 29, Forno’s Speakeasy is transforming into a winter wonderland – with all the comfort of staying inside, of course.
But if you want to partake in the retro ski lodge pop-up this winter, you’ll have to find the secret door first, located inside of the restaurant.
Once you do find the door, a staircase will lead you down to a hidden bar area that used to house the restaurant’s storage space, featuring a low ceiling with antique accents, a full bar, tables, couches, and dim lighting.
It’s only open Fridays and Saturdays from 8 p.m. until 1 a.m., and although it’s cozy and intimate, the space can still seat up to 50 people. This winter, you can warm up with vintage tiki-inspired drinks, plus libations you’d find at a ski lodge, like the Carrie Bradclaus and the Cold Nut Milk Punch.
It’s a chilly night in the Short North, and you seek refuge through the little side door illuminated by a red light. Walking down the Persian carpet-lined steps into Ginger Rabbit, jazz music billows from below, and you’re transported to an entirely different era –one where no cell phones are in sight, and everyone’s drinking gin martinis instead of modern hoity toity, fruity cocktails.
When the live jazz trios are on a break, patrons are conversing with each other, comfortable and warm on the plush, pink velvet chairs. It’s an escape from your average night out filled with loud techno music and well drinks.
Ginger Rabbit marks the second concept opened by Columbus duo BJ Lieberman and Bronwyn Haines. Their first (incredibly successful) concept, Chapman’s Eat Market, also has a notable hidden space tucked away behind the restaurant’s bookshelves.
← 40 Deuce Burlesque & Speakeasy, photo courtesy of 40 Deuce
UNDERNEATH THE SANCTUARY ON NEIL
610 Neil Ave.
“Please don’t do coke in the bathroom,” reads a red neon sign that greets visitors to Sotto Terra, and while this doesn’t directly say anything about the speakeasy tucked underneath The Sanctuary on Neil (a former church located in Victorian VIllage), it says a whole lot indirectly.
Because while Sotto Terra is, in one sense of the word, a speakeasy, it eschews the sometimes haughty exclusivity of the speakeasy concept with open arms and a whole lot of quirky fun.
Sotto Terra has played regular host to adult spelling bees (with booze included, obviously), drag shows, plenty of themed trivia nights and even a Dolly Parton look-a-like contest. Did we mention record listening parties, comedy shows and dance parties? So if you prefer your speakeasies with a side of weird but fascinating fun, you might want to follow the set of stairs that leads underneath The Sanctuary on Neil.
PIZZERIA
3959 Brighton Rose Sq.
While we’re not 100 percent sure on this one, we believe you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else that combines a pizzeria, burlesque club and speakeasy all in the same space. Of course, we’re talking about the (accurately named) Ivan Kane’s 40 Deuce Pizzeria & Speakeasy.
The pizzeria, which represents Kane’s New York roots is unique enough, complete with disco balls, checkerboard tiles and much more, but its Kane’s speakeasy and burlesque show that truly put him on the map (and at one point even gave him his own Bravo reality series, Forty Deuce).
Accessible through the doors of the restaurant’s walk-in refrigerator, the hidden spot boasts a burlesque supper club from 7-9 p.m. FridaySaturday, and transforms into a burlesque nightclub from 9:30 p.m.-2 a.m. those same evenings.
Kane’s world-class burlesque shows have been heralded everywhere from Vegas Magazine to Jimmy Kimmel, and they’re located right here at Easton Town Center.
INSIDE OF A FORMER FAMILY HOME
80 E. Olentangy St., Powell (MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED)
If you feel like you just walked inside of someone’s home after stepping in Powell’s chic members-only club, 80 East, it’s because in some sense, you did.
According to owner Gretch Bonasera, the spacious Powell bar and social club took over a former family home at the intersection of Olentangy St. and Grace Dr. Patrons can occupy single rooms— either by themselves or alongside small groups—that were actually used as rooms in the former home, each furnished with retro-cool vintage furniture.
The Powell space isn’t just an old home, however. If you’re looking to socialize in a more traditional bar setting, 80 East boasts a beautiful bar space complete with beautiful dark wood, cozy booths, a mezzanine overlook and more. What’s more, the bar itself abuts an idyllic Powell creek.
If rare bourbon is your thing, 80 East has plenty of it, in addition to a wide variety of crack cocktails.
TUCKED AWAY INSIDE OF SMASH BUDDIES
460 S. Front St.
The newest speakeasy on our list is also the most explicit: It’s quite literally called The Speakeasy.
The concept–created by Jesse “JP” Patterson–is located in the Brewery District, and officially opened its doors this summer. Speaking of doors, the entrance to The Speakeasy is located through a “secret” door inside of Smash Buddies, a burger food truck turned brick and mortar restaurant that shares an address with the hidden bar.
You can access The Speakeasy through a hidden door inside of the eatery, but that’s currently all we’re at liberty to divulge.
What we can talk about, however, are the great drinks and entertainment that the Brewery District spot regularly offers. With a heavy focus on bourbon, The Speakeasy is also a regular venue for live music, featuring jazz groups and more.
Our new video podcast series Sip & Stay is grabbing some of the best bartenders in Columbus to create unique cocktails inspired by the history and vibrancy of Ohio’s Capital City. Each episode features a unique location and a unique craft cocktail inspired by it.
Scan the QR code to watch now!
CREATED BY
Oscar started working at Lindey's in 2017, and has held every front of the house position. He moved to the bar with zero experience and quickly became enamored with mixology.
This is Oscar's second win of (614)'s cocktail competition.
* 1.5 oz vanilla-infused Haku vodka
* .25 oz velvet Falernum
* 1 oz acid adjusted passionfruit cordial
* .5 oz vanilla syrup
* 1 dash tiki bitters
* 2 oz sidecar of prosecco
Local history and culinary trends collide at P.O. Box 21, the new speakeasy concept—housed in a former post office—from High Bank Distillery Co.
By
Picture this: fluorescent lighting, white walls, laminate countertops, supplies hanging–your average, allAmerican post office. And then, it happens.
What you once thought was a wall jolts open and invites you into a room – a world – that’s completely unlike the mundane parcel hub around it.
Dark and moody, P.O. Box 21 is a newly-opened speakeasy right beneath the new(ish) High Bank Distillery on 28. S. State St., in Uptown Westerville. Its unmarked doors opened to the public in late October (two months after High Bank opened as a whole).
“I’ve been looking at Westerville seriously as a location for almost four years at this point,” said Adam Hines, co-founder of High Bank Distillery Co. “It wasn’t until this building – this specific building became available that I was like, ‘Yeah, that’s where we can tell the story of what Whiskey War is.’”
The building in reference was originally a post office that played a large role in sending out Anti-Saloon League propaganda during the era of prohibition. With Westerville once being known as the “Dry Capital of the World,” it was no stranger to the protests, violence and political push-back that came with the “Whiskey Wars” from distributing and consuming spirits. However Hines said that history is exactly what inspired the speakeasy’s installation.
The Westerville location marks the third within the company – with the first in Grandview as a restaurant and production distillery and the second in New Albany as just a restaurant, but one that serves drinks. With the success of their initial locations, Hines said he and his team wanted to create a new experience for incoming guests.
“The fact that I knew we could do this multiple experience thing that hasn’t been done in Uptown before, we knew Westerville needed something like that,” Hines said. “They deserve something really cool.” →
“I want people to come in and be like ‘Am I in the right spot?’ and people are going to talk about it. It's a conversation piece.”
P.O. Box 21 takes its name from the 21st amendment, and aims to recreate the allure and secretiveness of an original early 1900s speakeasy. But even if guests find the outside entrance, they’re first transported not to the speakeasy, but to a post office from the past.
“It's two parts – I want people to come in and be like ‘Am I in the right spot?’ and people are going to talk about it. It's a conversation piece. Then, as soon as you walk in, it’s unlike anything else,” Hines said.
Hines also emphasized that the new speakeasy does not require membership of any sort. Although the space is first come, first served, there’s no password or barrier to entry. Whether you’re already dining at the restaurant above, or you’re simply stopping by – Hines said he wants everyone to enjoy what the space has to offer.
Even for those who may find themselves on the waitlist, Hines said the area offers plenty for those in need of killing a little time.
“It’s encouraging people to go shop Uptown. Go wait in the stores, go experience Uptown Westerville, and we’ll text you when your ‘package’ is ready,” Hines chuckled. “You’ll have 10 minutes to come and claim your ‘package’ – and it’s still that experience.”
From visiting several speakeasies, Hines expressed a need to create P.O. Box 21 in what he considered “the right way,” which
meant only inviting the best of the best to work there, and giving them the freedom and creative control to craft not only memorable cocktails, but also a unique atmosphere.
“The team down there has spent a ton of time making something that’s totally a different direction than what we have at our High Bank locations,” Hines said. “I don’t think there’s a single cocktail that translates to what we have upstairs, and I think it’ll be a menu that will evolve and change pretty often.”
Currently, word-of-mouth has been the main promotional tactic for the speakeasy. Despite that, High Bank has seen an influx of patrons who are “looking for the post office” and inquiring where they can “pick up their package.”
As a Westerville local himself, Hines said the community is tight-knit, and while the speakeasy plays into his own creative benefit, its history and night-life benefit the community as well.
“I’ve lived in Westerville for over a decade now,” Hines stated. “This is where I choose to raise my family.”
And now, it’s where he chooses to create a truly unique experience for his community as well, assuming it knows where to look. ♦
Visit P.O. Box 21 at 28 S. State St. That is…if you can find it.
inter is coming. The chill, the dampness, the gray skies—you need to beat the cold and treat yourself to some relaxation and a mood booster. While a cold plunge may sound like exactly what you don’t want to do, combine it with a sauna and some vitamin C, and it may be exactly what you do want to do. And that’s exactly what SweatHouz, in Grandview and Worthington, is banking on.
“Truly, what it is, it's a contrast therapy studio,” said Eric Riddle, assistant manager at SweatHouz Grandview. “So what that means is we do a balance of hot and cold.” The hour-long sessions, in your own private studio, boast health and relaxation benefits.
And it’s hugely popular. When the weather outside is bone-chilling, what’s better than to warm up from the inside out? This is where SweatHouz’s infrared sauna comes in. Infrared, like the warmth from the sun, heats objects, rather than the surrounding air— so you feel toasty warm while the air in your studio remains breathable.
“It's more like a slow burn,” Riddle said. “I like to explain it as, with other saunas, [they] heat the air around you. So truly, when you get in [infrared], it's not stuffy feeling at all. It's great because it slowly starts that burn in your body, and it has a longer effect as well.”
The saunas are usually preset to 140 degrees, and you can ramp up that warmth to 175—or drop the temperature if you want a slower burn. And, when you’re fully stocked on warmth, you can step into the vitamin C shower.
“It's a topical form of vitamin C, basically a serum for your whole body,” Riddle explained. “So it's really good for hair, skin, and nails, too. And it's excellent because you just got out of the sauna, so your pores are all open, you can really layer it in there. And then you're able to seal it with the cold plunge.”
Wait—a sauna and cold plunge in the same studio? Absolutely. Because the sauna is infrared, the water is never heated by hot air. A few minutes in the cold, and you’re all set to relax for the rest of the day—or get back under the infrared light.
And each suite is equipped with a smart TV, preloaded with YouTube and YouTube TV, and able to play streaming services from many of your own personal accounts. →
All of this makes for a busy schedule, and Riddle said Sweat Hauz memberships fit every kind of lifestyle. “For health benefits, we try to have our clients aim for about 90 minutes a week in the sauna and 11 minutes a week in the cold plunge. After that, the health benefits start to fall off a little bit,” Riddle said. Memberships range from a la carte to unlimited monthly, and members can bring a guest for a modest fee.
But what, exactly, are those health benefits? According to Riddle, the infrared sauna is “really, really great” for detoxing and cleansing the body. “It helps improve your skin. It helps with muscle recovery. It helps with reduced mortality rate. It also enhances your mood and boosts metabolism.” It even mimics a moderatelevel workout for the heart, he said.
“For the cold plunge, it's super great for recovery and performance as well,” he continued. “It's really good for pain relief. It reduces inflammation. It also specifically targets a type of fat in the body called brown fat—that fat that tends to build up around the back of the neck. Also, the cold plunge is very typically known for releasing a ton of endorphins in the body. So when you get out, you're pretty hyper and excited and happy. And also, you'll sleep like a baby that night for doing your cold plunge that day.”
SweatHouz doesn’t ask about your health, but recommends you consult your doctor about whether the therapies are right for you before starting sessions. For most people, Riddle said, there’s no problem with the therapies, since clients can explore at their own pace.
“It's so great, especially for the mental health benefits,” he said. “I think it's so significant for people wanting to take a break from their daily life to zone out, or to just have that hour for themselves. We have therapists referring people—it's so nice to see that polar opposite of someone walking into the lobby, head down, saying their name, and then they hop out and they're jazzed up. So I think with the winter stress and holidays, this is a great time to just take a moment for yourself, unplug, come visit us, and elevate that mood a bit.” ♦
To learn more or book a sauna or cold plunge for yourself, visit sweathouz.com.
From cocoa topped with Teddy Grahams, to some that taste straight out of an abuelita’s kitchen, here are six local hot chocolates to help you warm up on a chilly day
By Lindsey Escaja / Photos by Sarah Pfeifer
ove over, pumpkin spice—it’s hot chocolate season, and Columbus coffee shops are heating things up with some seriously creative spins on this winter classic. Forget just marshmallows and whipped cream—think velvety peppermint cocoa or a frozen hot chocolate that’s both chilly and comforting. This year, six local spots are proving that hot chocolate isn’t just for kids. Whether you’re craving a cozy cup to sip solo or a bold, imaginative drink to share with friends, these spots have just what you need. So why settle for the same old mix at home when local baristas are crafting indulgent hot chocolates you won’t want to miss? Check out these local gems for a hot chocolate adventure that’s anything but ordinary:
At Pistacia Vera, they don’t mess around when it comes to their hot chocolate. Their Valrhona Hot Cocoa is made with a house-made chocolate sauce crafted from Valrhona chocolate—a top-tier, sustainable French brand known for its rich, high-quality flavor. “We use a dark chocolate with hints of sweet spices and roasted vanilla to make each cup extra special,” said coffee bar manager Jade Rahe. Blended with
Freedom a la Cart’s Bonfire Hot Cocoa isn’t just a drink— it’s a throwback to cozy campfire nights, swapping scary ghost stories, and toasting gooey s’mores. “I wanted to capture those sweet, fireside moments from my past and bring them to Freedom’s community in the form of a drink,” said the barista behind the creation. This cup of nostalgia is made with your favorite steamed milk, topped with whipped cream, marshmallows, Teddy Grahams, and a cocoa dusting. Even better? Each sip supports a mission dedicated to empowering survivors of human trafficking, making it a superior feel-good treat for chilly days! →
At Chocolate Cafe, their hot chocolate is all about keeping it real with just the essentials. Made with pure, melted chocolate and steamed milk—choose from two percent, oat, or almond—then topped with a cloud of whipped cream, it’s a rich, velvety hug in a cup.
“The beauty of our hot chocolate is the simplicity of it,” said owner Lisa Boyle. But if you’re in the mood to level up, they’ve got some seriously delicious addins like Nutella, peanut butter, mint, chili powder, or salted caramel. It’s your cozy, chocolatey canvas waiting to be customized!
Winans puts a cool spin on a winter favorite with their Frozen Hot Chocolate—a treat designed to deliver all the cozy flavors of hot cocoa, even on sunny days. Blending their signature hot chocolate mix with creamy milk, topped with whipped cream and a rich Winans chocolate drizzle, it’s both refreshing and indulgent. “We wanted to create a fun way for people to enjoy the comforting essence of hot chocolate year-round,” said Lindsey Reiser, Director of Marketing. It’s the ultimate hot chocolate experience for any chocolate lover—no matter the temperature!
At Fox in the Snow, the Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a superb winter indulgence that keeps customers coming back year after year. Made with their luscious homemade chocolate syrup, this drink is thick, rich, and dark—just how hot chocolate should be. “We aimed to create a perfect blend of textures, with the airy marshmallows balancing the bold chocolate and the refreshing essence of peppermint,” shared Jeff Excell. It’s a delightful treat that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, making it the perfect companion for those chilly Columbus days!
By Chris Alexis / Photos by Aaron Massey
hen Grace Choi and her partners opened OnePot - Hot Pot & Korean BBQ in Columbus, they wanted to give the Capital City a taste of something it hadn’t seen before—a blend of Chinese and Korean flavors immersed in a dining experience that felt totally new. And they would succeed.
As one of the eatery’s operating managers, Choi has been closely involved in shaping this concept. Following the success of their first location in Cleveland, the team— made up of Chinese and Korean owners from Columbus and Cleveland—brought the dual dining experience of Korean barbecue and hot pot to a population hungry for something unique.
“We wanted to bring a fusion of our cuisine into a market that wasn’t tapped too much yet,” Choi said. “It’s still a new concept to combine Korean barbecue and hot pot, and we wanted to introduce that in a non-corporate, more intimate way.”
OnePot opened its doors on October 16 in a spot with sentimental roots for many Columbus locals: the former Joe’s Crab Shack (3720 W. Granville Rd.), close to Chuck E. Cheese and Barnes & Noble.
"We thought it would be a good space since Joe's Crab Shack is such a nostalgic place for a lot of families in Ohio,” she said. “It’s where we grew up going to celebrate events and birthdays.”
Choi noted that they’ve kept a piece of Joe’s Crab Shack’s legacy in the space as a nod to the past. “The patio has been preserved, so locals can enjoy our new concept in a place they might remember from when they were growing up,” she added.
At OnePot, guests find the best of both worlds.
Hot pot, a popular Chinese tradition, brings a variety of bubbling soup bases to the table, ranging from authentic broths to creative options like Thai Tom Yum and Korean kimchi soup.
“Hot pot is traditionally Chinese, but we wanted to expand that experience,” Choi said. “So, we’ve created soup bases that give our guests a chance to explore traditional Chinese hot pot with different flavors.”
Meanwhile, Korean barbecue introduces a social, interactive element: patrons gather around communal grills to cook meats and vegetables, taking turns as designated “grillers” and enjoying the slow-paced, shared experience. →
“If you’ve never had Korean barbecue, it’s a very social concept, where you’re sitting down together, cooking, eating, maybe drinking, over a period of time,” Choi said. “It’s about cooking and enjoying food together at a communal table.”
OnePot’s tables are fully equipped for this dual dining format.“If you’re at a six-person table, each person has their own hot pot burner, plus the center grill to share,” she explained. “It’s a unique setup that lets everyone enjoy their meal together while cooking right at the table.”
Unclear on how it works? Not to worry. Servers are on hand to guide newcomers through the process, helping guests feel at ease with cooking techniques and flavor combinations. “They’ll walk people through everything, whether they need help grilling or deciding on the best ingredients to dip into the hot pot,” Choi said.
OnePot might be a newbie here in Columbus, but it’s made fast work of building a loyal following. "We're seeing a lot of repeat customers—some people come twice a week or on a weekly basis," said Choi. “The feedback about our food, service, and space has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Choi credits at least some of OnePot’s success to their use of fresh ingredients and in-house preparation. “All our pickles, kimchi, soup bases, and other dishes are made in-house,” she said.
She emphasized, “We’re not a franchise, so we have the freedom to keep our ingredients fresh and our flavors authentic. That level of control allows us to cater our menu to the community.”
The team’s commitment to the local area extends beyond their culinary offerings. Many members of the management team are Ohio State alumni, and recently, they gave gift cards to the Asian American Association at OSU to show their support.
And with all this success, does that mean OnePot will begin to expand throughout the various suburbs within the Capital City? Only time will tell.
“We’re proud to be part of the community that we know and grew up in,” Choi said. “It’s a privilege to give back to the area that’s supported us so much already.” ♦
Offer valid through Jan. 3, 2025. Disney on Ice vouchers subject to availability.
Looking to mix it up on NYE? Ditch the formal wear for comfy clothes with these four ways to ring in the new year from home
By Laura Hennigan Story Design by Bryce Patterson
This might be a polarizing issue, but we are firmly standing our ground and proudly announcing our loyalty to the stay-the-heck-home-on-New Year’s Eve camp. It all sounds so fun in theory – getting dressed up, going out on the town, ringing in midnight with glitter and champagne. But, in reality, wearing uncomfortable clothes, spending a small fortune on overpriced food and drinks, and trying to track down an Uber at one in the morning holds zero appeal.
New Year’s Eve is quite possibly the best night of the year to stay home and celebrate with people you actually like, instead of a ballroom full of drunk strangers attempting to sing “Auld Lang Syne.” And it doesn’t have to be boring, because we’ve compiled some of the best ways to have fun, make memories, and get to bed at a reasonable hour.
You can still put on a fancy outfit if the mood suits you, but we will definitely be opting for stretchy pants. →
Your NYE plans as a couple should absolutely center around food. It’s the perfect night to cook together and try a new recipe or make a memorable favorite dish. For those who don’t want to start from scratch, pick up some prepared foods from Weiland’s, The Hills Market, or Preston Eatery in the days leading up to NYE. No matter what you opt to nosh on, be sure to grab a few bottles of vino to pair with the meal. Aardvark Wine & Beer will offer a selection of grower Champagne and other sparkling wines, with something for everyone’s budget. The store will also be open on December 31. for last-minute shopping and recommendations. Take some time to reflect on all that you have seen and done together, as well as your hopes and dreams for the coming year.
Just because kids are in the mix doesn’t mean New Year’s Eve plans have to be canceled. Start with setting up a hot chocolate bar, complete with cute mugs, yummy toppings, and candy cane stirring sticks. Have everyone talk about, write down, or draw pictures of some of your favorite 2024 family memories, along with wishes for the year ahead. Pick up a holiday cookie decorating kit from Sugar Rush Columbus and work together to make some sweet treats. Wrap up the celebration with bang from Young and Wild Balloon Co., which is offering Pop Drops, a large clear balloon filled with small colorful ones to create your own balloon drop at home. Too little to hang until midnight? Opt to celebrate Noon Year’s Eve, where you can have all the fun of a countdown coupled with the joy of everyone going to sleep on time.
Gather together a squad, guilt someone into hosting at their place, and prepare for an epic evening of merriness. Games are one of the best ways to bring folks together, whether you opt for a strategic board game or a few hands of Texas Hold’em. If you need some recommendations, the staff at Tabletop Game Cafe in Clintonville are happy to help curate a list of suggestions based on the size and personalities of your group. If you have enough guests, try a jigsaw puzzle competition, where teams race against each other to finish their puzzle first (with prizes for the winners, of course). Spruce up the evening with a few festive seasonal cocktails, such as Cranberry-Ginger Mimosa, Hot Buttered Rum, or some Christmas Punch. Hand out sparklers and noisemakers and have everyone run outside at midnight to ring in 2025.
Keep it small and plan a cozy, intimate NYE celebration with a few close friends. Start with a decadent charcuterie board from Brie Gals or Meza Wine Shop, both of which will deliver right to your door. Make a plate, pile under some blankets, and queue up a favorite holiday movie, like When Harry Met Sally, An Affair to Remember, Ocean’s Eleven or Die Hard. Engage in some self-care with face masks, at-home pedicures, and a low-key dance party. Skip the resolutions and instead craft gratitude jars, which you can fill with slips of paper over the next year that document your accomplishments, favorites, lessons learned, surprises, and anything else you want to remember. If you have the space, turn the evening into a sleepover, complete with a delicious New Year’s Day breakfast the next morning.
We all want happy holidays, but sometimes they’re funnier when they’re not. (614) readers have submitted some of their favorite merry mishaps
Story Design by Bryce Patterson
Let’s face it, there probably won’t be too many years we wake up to a ribbon-wrapped sports car as a holiday gift, and the chances of that one cousin who always makes a scene not making a scene this year are pretty low. Instead of begrudging this lack of perfection, we prefer to embrace it. Well, mostly just the comedy that comes with it, since anytime you put an entire family together for more than an hour and add alcohol, things are bound to get hilarious. For your enjoyment, we asked our readers to submit their funniest holiday disaster stories, and from stolen Christmas dinner to questionable family photos, here they are. →
Every year, my family and I go to my uncle’s house for Christmas dinner. This particular year, someone gifted my uncle a brand-new meat smoker. Naturally, he wanted to put it to use. This means him spending about 12 hours–a stint which included waking up at 6 a.m. on Christmas morning–cooking a five pound brisket intended to feed our entire extended family for dinner.
Right before it was time to eat, a whole lot of commotion broke out from the garage where my uncle was doing the smoking. The brisket was gone.
After a frenzied 10 minutes of trying, and failing, to find it, we learned what had happened. And to this day, it makes as little sense to me as it did that anxiety-stricken Christmas evening.
I never learned why exactly he thought to reach out to her, but my uncle eventually called his wife’s sister. I don’t know her well, but it’ll suffice to say I’ve heard interesting stories. Plus, she made a brief appearance and then conspicuously left just before dinner. It turns out she took the entire brisket.
Apparently, when my uncle asked her why, she said, “I didn’t think you wanted it,” and left it at that. He asked her to come back with the (five pound, in case you forgot) brisket. She did not.
On the day before Christmas 2022, my boyfriend and I went to a Bears game in Chicago. This was right after the huge winter storms and cold front that year, and on the day of, it was nine degrees outside. We bought tickets months before, so we went anyway. We also had the bright idea to stop and grab Delta-8 infused drinks. We got the max dose (Double F*** it, iykyk).
I think you can tell where this is going.
Long story short, I have actually never been so high in my life. I felt myself slipping out of consciousness at the game and truly thought I was dying of frostbite (I was just really high, but it WAS freezing). The game was at 1 p.m., and we only stayed for about 30 minutes, and I was absolutely gone for the entire rest of the day.
Later that night, I had to visit my boyfriend’s grandparents and go to Christmas Eve dinner with his family. I was still tweaking. I remember basically none of it, except for the fact that my boyfriend ordered lasagna and the noodles were green for some reason. Didn’t feel normal again until I woke up on Christmas morning.
Also, the Bears lost 35-13.
Ihave an uncle who doesn’t drink often, but when he does (pretty much just at big family functions, from what I can tell), he goes a little too hard.
I’ll spare the frat party-esque details, but basically my entire family decided to throw down like their lives depended on it one Christmas about a decade ago.
The uncle in question got so sloshed that we—a la Weekend at Bernie’s—propped him up in a chair for a family photo at the end of the night, since he was completely passed out. I still have the photo.
When I was a teenager, it was well known in my house that my Auntie bought really ugly Christmas gifts. For everyone.
One year, we were sitting around with the whole family at her house opening gifts, and my brother opened his present from her. It was a particularly ugly sweater.
His first reaction was to laugh, but he also wanted to keep everything together, which meant his only option was to hold the sweater over his face while he was laughing. All of us—I guess I should say most of us—could tell why he was laughing, and the ridiculousness of the situation made everyone else start laughing.
Everyone else except for my Auntie. She kept asking why everyone was laughing so hard, which just made us all laugh harder.
“I
“Except
When probing a prospective Santa, there are a few things that Lovell looks for. “What I’ve learned is, it tends to be an older gentleman, very jolly, outgoing personality.” Getting the whole act right, though, can be difficult. “They might not be as jolly as they need to,” Lovell told me, with a hint of sadness to his voice.
There is also – as one would guess – a distinct demand for real facial hair, AKA “Natural Bearded Santas.” In the midst of our conversation, Lovell used this industry jargon a number of times, clueing me into its importance. Not unlike other sectors of the entertainment industry, these all-natural entertainers can command a higher fee than their artificial counterparts, making them particularly sought after.
Bill Clark, who has been rocking a beard since age 19, is one of these all-natural Santas. When a chance encounter landed him in the Big Red role, he found that such an outfit and the associated merrymaking suited him quite well. Eighteen years later, Clark continues to don the costume each year when the holidays roll around as a professional Santa within Lovell’s organization. “Except for my two brothers and my ex-wife, no one knows what I look like,” he told me with a laugh. Talk about commitment.
Those who are interested in checking out one of Lovell’s Santas can find them across Central Ohio throughout the holiday season. Conducting more than 300 events in December alone, the folks at Awesome Entertainment certainly appear to know their way around the block; and on this topic, I grow curious as to what, if any, changes have occurred in the Santa business over time.
Both Lovell and Clark pointed to the growingly diverse cast of Santas as a positive change that has occurred since they joined the industry. Today you can see Black Santas, Asian Santas, and women playing Santa (not to be confused with Mrs. Claus). They’ve got a Santa for everyone, folks.
I should also mention the audiences for these appearances. Although children are a constant presence, both Lovell and Clark were quick to mention the growing popularity of Santa appearances for adults, and while some might mock this as being childish, I see no problems here. Just don’t make it weird by trying to sit on anyone’s lap.
While malls appear to comprise a solid portion of business for Mr. Lovell’s Santa-For-Hire shop, they are far from the only locales in which his Santas appear. Lovell cited Blue Jackets games, stops at Columbus’ own North Market and even home visits as regular stops during the holiday season. At one point, he even described a situation wherein one of his Santas flew in on a helicopter. Reindeer might be magical, and potentially even more environmentally friendly, but when it comes to arriving in style, nothing beats a chopper.
Despite an obvious financial motive that animates Awesome Entertainment’s operations, I get the feeling in my discussions with Lovell and Clark that profits might not be an immediate concern. A lot of people say they love the holiday season, but based on my conversations with the previously mentioned pair, I get the feeling these folks see the leadup to Christmas as the highlight of their years. →
