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To learn more about Breezeline’s digital initiatives, visit Breezeline.com
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Opening Volley
JACK MCLAUGHLIN Editor-In-Chief
On the Hunt
I think one of the most prominent fallacies we deal with on a cultural level is the belief that, if we were just rich, famous, had a 6-pack, etc., that we would be enduringly happy. We see a celebrity and assume they’re living the dream. As we so often see, however, that’s far from the case.
And sure, achieving these things will definitely bring a level of happiness in at least the short term (and I’d also love to be rich, who wouldn’t?), but I find it difficult to believe they bring about lasting happiness.
My theory is this: no matter what it is—even if my ambient, black metal, bluegrass rap career took off (I’m joking) and I became the most famous and successful musician in the world (I’m also joking about this being a possibility)—the novelty of everything will fade.
No matter who we are or where we live or how much money and fame we have, the threat of monotony is always lurking in the background, watching and waiting.
I’m not necessarily the biggest fan, but I remember watching an interview with Bo Burnham where he described a world or national tour he was headlining—one pretty soon after he made it big—as profoundly lonely and isolating. That’s always stuck with me.
For me, staying out of this rut is an active and ongoing process.
My brain is insatiably curious, and I get bored easily. This isn’t to say I don’t find comfort and value in routine, because to an extent I do, but for me, doing the exact same things at the exact same times each day makes me feel stagnant and uninspired.
Whether it’s trying a new hobby, watching a movie you haven’t seen before, eating at a new restaurant or just taking a different route on a daily walk, these small moments of newness are what really recharge me, they create excitement that fuels me in a small, but very real way.
And speaking of adventures or trying new things, our July issue has curated a list of 20 hidden gems through the Columbus area—whether they be in the form of eateries, events or places—and we encourage you to explore them all.
It’s our hope that this issue functions as a guide for you to navigate some of our favorite under-theradar activities in central Ohio, but that’s not all we want it to be. More than anything, we want our July issue to spark the weird, wonderful wanderlust we all have hidden inside of ourselves somewhere, and we hope it keeps growing.
Stay curious, Columbus, and happy hunting.
� STAFF PICKS
Our staff picks
A lot of people don’t like sharing their hidden gems with the world. But we’re definitely not like other people over here at (614) – we’re dedicated to sharing with you some of our favorite spots around the city, and here’s our staff’s picks for the most clandestine places around town:
Johnnie's Tavern on Trabue in San Margherita – great burgers & ice cold beer! Also – Basi in the Short North – great food & a fantastic setting.
— Meggin Weimerskirch, Advertising Director
My hidden gem would probably be Runaway Bay Apartments and the lake and beach area they have! The lake is only for residents, but it was a cool fun gem/unique amenity when I used to live there.
— Victoria Smith, Creative Designer
I have so many! I’m going to show Bexley Natural Market some love. They’re open year-round and offer fresh produce from local farmers, plus other all-natural, local goods. A co-op store is such an underrated concept.
— Sav McKee, Assistant Editor
I’m gonna say Bob’s Bar for mine, it’s the cultural hub of the Midwest! Always a great crowd of people, great beer selection and great energy. Plus I love Paulie Bombs (a shot made by my fav bartender there).
— Lizzy Saunders, Brand Manager, 614 Lager
Happy Go Lucky Home & Her in the Short North has some excellent trinkets and beautiful clothes/home goods. It’s also woman owned. I love love love window shopping in there on a nice sunny evening.
— Atlas Biro, Creative Designer
ON the WEB
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 suscribe to our daily email!
→ Former corporate marketing pro turns to pizza in what could be become Columbus’ hot new pop-up
What made Dan Dover quit a corporate marketing job at a major company in order to launch a traveling food pop-up? Pizza did.
→ Alcohol-free bar and arcade opening this week
With the Dry Mill—the city’s only alcohol-free bar—shuttering in early 2023, central Ohio has been primed for another booze-free hangout spot to hit the scene. And now it’s here.
→ ‘World’s Biggest Bounce Park’ coming to Columbus for limited time
The global, traveling bounce park that continuously sells out is coming to Columbus this month. Fun Box, which boasts the “world’s biggest bounce park,” opens on May 31 at 5825 Chantry Square Mall, and it’s here until September.
#AsSeenInColumbus
@americannutcompany
@muschlitzphoto
@atelierdelaware
@riotinkohio
PRES S PLAY
614 VIDEO
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.
• An All American Diner with a Delicious "Secret"
The All American Jenny's Diner sports a not-so-secret menu full of mouthwatering, delicious food. Traditional breakfast never tasted so good!
• Slide Into Summer ft. El Vaquero
This summer is set to be one of the hottest on record. Beat the summer heat and cool off with some classic giant margaritas, fresh tacos and great vibes on the El Vaquero patio.
• Snack Attack: The 21+ Edition
This 21+ edition of Snack Attack features 4 locally made vodkas that we are eager to share! 614 Vodka makes its debut appearance, plus the rest of them are definitely worth checking out!
• Tasting Columbus: Jalisco Mexican Ice Cream Summer is heating up and Jalisco’s is the best place to cool down. Featuring dozens of flavors and an array of frozen treats, you don’t want to miss this!
Oddities Oddities State Fair
Columbus historian John M. Clark chronicles some
of the strangest, wildest and most wonderful moments in the Ohio State Fair’s history
By John M. Clark / Story Design by Atlas Biro
The Ohio State Fair returns to Columbus on July 24th, with spectacles rarely seen at other times of the year. Like the “Dunk,” a full-sized sculpture of the state’s official fossil fish, an acrobatic daredevil show 80 feet in the air, a strolling pianist and, of course, the butter cow. And you can take it all in while dining on cotton candyflavored deviled eggs, courtesy of the Ohio Poultry Association.
Traditionally focused on agriculture, the state fair has also made news for the many oddities recorded in its 174-year history. Here are just a few others…
Photos Courtesy of Columbus Metropolitan Library
Aside from the midwestern charm of champion farm animals and the latest in agricultural equipment, the first two fairs were devoid of entertainment. Pony rides for children were added in 1853, along with a politically incorrect display of monkeys that danced to minstrel tunes.
College football made an appearance at the fair in 1894, with teams from Ohio State, Miami, Wittenberg and Buchtel (University of Akron) demonstrating the new sport. When one of the games ran long, a horse race went ahead as scheduled as the game continued in the infield.
Long-known for its big-name entertainment, the state fair has played host to a curious assortment of singers and musicians: Liza Minnelli in 1974; Ringo Starr in 1992; and jazz greats Dave Brubeck, Oscar Peterson, John Coltrane, Dizzy Gillespie and Theolonius Monk in 1965. (Miles Davis was scheduled to join the jazz superstars, but had fallen ill.) In 1989, several young girls were injured in a crush to see New Kids on the Block.
Television cameras are nothing new to the state fair. In 1978, the fairgrounds were the setting for an ABC-TV prime time special co-hosted by comedian Dan Rowan and super-model Cheryl Tiegs. Performers included Donny & Marie Osmond, Bob Hope, Kenny Rogers, Charlie Pride, Pat & Debby Boone and Sha Na Na. In 1983 and 1997, Pat Sajak brought letter turner Vanna White and the entire Wheel of Fortune TV game show to the fair. And in 2011, several scenes of the big-screen action film Parker with Jason Statham were shot here.
Tragedy descended upon the fair in 1899. That year, a group of Ohio National Guardsmen were recreating the Battle of San Juan Hill when real bullets were accidentally exchanged for fake ones. Two Guardsmen were shot and killed.
Exhibitions of unique people drew huge crowds to the state fair midway as recently as 35 years ago. In 1990, a 559-pound man from Brooklyn known as “Big Billy Pork Chop” earned a few dollars on the midway by allowing visitors to gawk at him and ask embarrassing questions. His tenure lasted less than a week, however. On day seven of his new career, “Big Billy” was found dead in his trailer. His death was ruled a heart attack.
In addition to taking in the fair’s traditional sights, sounds and smells, visitors to the 1902 state fair could adopt an orphan. An ad in one local newspaper read, “Boys! Boys! Boys! Responsible farmers or other persons desiring a good boy to raise, or a little child by adoption will do well to visit the booth of the Children’s Home Society of Ohio in the main hall of the state fair buildings.”
In 1907, a newly constructed Women’s Rest Parlor contained a “Babies’ Checkroom.” A newspaper article read, in part, “The visitors had not the slightest fear of getting the babies mixed up or losing them. About 50 babies were checked yesterday.” The checkroom boasted a “force of nurses.” It isn’t clear how many years the “baby check” continued.
In the early 1900s, there was so much interest in the fair – and too few hotel rooms in Columbus – that residents here began renting out rooms to out-of-town visitors. Hotels set up cots in hallways. Some front porches in the University District were rented out to visitors. And as late as the late 1970s, OSU garages on High Street were advertised as suitable parking options for travelers by car.
Early state fairs saw the establishment of a temporary Columbus Police Department precinct on the grounds. Petty crime was common, and there was the occasional case of reckless driving. In 1897 two men were arrested for operating their horse and wagon in a dangerous manner. While in the fairgrounds lock-up they went on a rampage, breaking 17 windows.
In the early 1900s, Boy Scouts were pressed into service, patrolling the grounds for any “young’uns” who were stealing sandwiches or gaining entry by climbing over fences. If caught, a child would be marched to the fair’s police department, where a trial was held. If found guilty, the young scofflaw’s parents were summoned. He could then choose either a trip to juvenile court, downtown, or a paddling from his parents right then and there.
By the turn of the 20th century, the Ohio State Fair had been at its current location for 15 years. And visitors from across the state who came by train were taking the opportunity to visit other parts of Columbus, as well. Group tours were arranged for Ohio State University, the Statehouse and even the Ohio State Penitentiary. Up to 3,000 or more people per day visited the prison, with the waiting line sometimes backing up all the way to High Street.
The old state pen is long gone, of course, and the OSU Buckeyes no longer share the spotlight with horse races. But you can still expect big crowds in town for the state fair’s 12-day run. And you can bet that, however disgusting they sound, those cotton candy-flavored deviled eggs will be a big draw. So, get there early.
Dimi Sovinksi and her shop, dabl, encourage us to put our individuality and memories all on display, one charm trinket at a time
By
Amadea Villanueva / Photos by Sarah Pfeifer / Story Design by Tori Smith
↓ Dimi, founder of dabl, wearing one of her custom charm necklaces
A CASE OF THE MONDAYS: STREISAND FEVER
July 1- Funny Girl (1968)
July 8 - What’s Up, Doc? (1972)
July 15 - The Way We Were (1973)
July 22 - Yentl (1983)
July 29 - A Star Is Born (1976)
VOICES: A CENTURY OF POLITICAL CINEMA
July 10 - The Great McGinty (1940)
NOT QUITE MIDNIGHT:
July 6 - Pink Flamingos (1972)
July 13 - The Room (2003)
July 20 - First Love (Hatsukoi) (2019)
For tickets, and to receive our newsletter, visit www.drexel.net linktr.ee/drexeltheatre
fter 20 years of watching my mom wear her charm bracelet, I still find myself asking her to go through the charms dangling around her wrist. She starts with a red heart, a shoe, and finally, a Mickey Mouse charm; each one representing a significant event or memory within her lifetime.
Dimi Sovinski, the owner of the local Columbus vintage store dabl, recounts a similar scene to mine. “I remember my grandmother’s charm bracelet the most,” she said. “The two of us are very much alike.” After a recent visit to her grandmother, Sovinski said they recalled memories spanning over decades. Each one embodied through the collection of charms, displaying the amount of meaning that can be held within a little accessory.
Here in Columbus, charms are making a comeback, and Sovinski’s vintage clothing and jewelry shop, dabl, is making some of the trendiest custom charm necklaces around. “I think nostalgia plays a huge part in the popularity of custom charms,” Sovinski explained. “Both millennials and Gen Z look back and remember the charm bracelet trend from the 90s and 2000s and think fondly of them.”
dabl, and its relationship with nostalgia, remind us of those moments with our moms, grandmothers, or best friends, and Sovinki’s vintage sourced charms encourage us to put who we are, and what we love, all on our sleeves (or necks – or ears – whichever type of jewelry you prefer!).
“When everything in the world is so complicated, it’s nice to treat yourself to something that reminds you of simpler times,” emphasized Sovinski. “The customization is just a bonus. People like that they can
↓ A selection of dabl’s vintage and thoughtfully sourced charms
We are definitely in the era of girlhood. I always say that my store is for the girlies.
show off their personality and interests with a piece of jewelry that’s also cute and trendy.”
And, as Sovinki put it, “We are definitely in the era of girlhood. I always say that my store is for the girlies.”
And she means it. Along with custom necklaces, earrings, and bracelets with dozens of curated charms you can add to them, dabl also sells vintage satin button-downs with hand-embroidered martini glasses on the pockets, second-hand purses with olives hand- painted on them, and upcycled sweatshirts with the iconic “We Are Happy to Serve You” bodega coffee cups printed on the front.
← A customer shows off their custom charm bracelet at a dabl “buildyour-own-charm” bar pop-up
← A happy customer wearing a custom charm necklace
↓
↓ Dimi assembling a custom charm necklace on the spot
dabl’s relationship with charms, although a new avenue for the shop, embodies the same environmental consciousness and commitment to personalized fashion that the shop has previously built itself around. “I source vintage charms in the same places I source vintage clothing,” explained Sovinski. “Thrift stores, estate sales. I look for earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and pins that I can deconstruct and repurpose.”
You can choose thoughtfully sourced vintage roses to hang on your necklace, or even shrinky-dinks of croissants and La Croix cans Sovinski makes herself. But she still has goals to push her business even further. “How can we make charms more personalized? Can we hand-make charms for the community? How far can we push the meaning of an item being one of a kind?” Sovinski asks herself.
Established in 2017, dabl initially began as a creative outlet for Sovinski and gradually evolved into a local shop focusing on home decor. In recent years, it has shifted to breathe new life into vintage and upcycled clothing. Sovinski's experience as a graphic designer aids in her production process, all the while remaining conscious of the environmental impact of clothing – she sources blank shirts and purses from second-hand shops, and then hand-embellishes them with her own designs, which you can order from her website.
Additionally, she collaborates with other local stores to offer in-person shopping of her products. Most recently, she hosted a charm bar in collaboration with the Madewell Easton location. You’ll also find her booth at local pop-ups and markets, with a build-your-owncharm-bar and racks full of vintage clothes, plus her own upcycled clothing to browse through.
“Some of my favorite moments [at dabl] are when groups of people come by, try on outfits or accessories together, and hype each other up at Franklinton Fridays,” Sovinski said. dabl’s emphasis on individuality brings a sense of celebration to the Columbus community, celebrating everyone’s unique quirks, and yes – everyone’s charm.
There’s a natural relationship with nostalgia that’s born through vintage clothing and accessories, and dabl is able to perfectly capture it, whether that’s through a bowtie pasta charm commemorating your favorite trip to Italy, or even a chili pepper hanging off your wrist, letting everyone know you’re sweet and spicy.
Build your own charm set on shopdabl.com, and follow along on Instagram, @shopdabl, for pop-up announcements.
← Dimi Sovinski, founder of dabl
Aloha, Aloha, BBQ! BBQ!
Say “aloha” to Ohana Island Grill’s newest location, and let the flavors of authentic Hawaiian BBQ transport you straight to the Big Island
By
Ohana Island Grill and Bar has landed in downtown Delaware, bringing with it a true taste of the islands. Tucked into a small space at 14 W. William St., the restaurant pops with a bright, tropical ambiance that includes a tiki bar, plenty of leis, themed decorations and a Hawaiian-inspired menu. →
Story Design by Atlas Biro
Kalbi Short Ribs from Ohana Island Grill & Bar →
Laura Hennigan / Photos by Aaron Massey
It’s the third Ohana location, the first two being fast casual spots in Oxford near Miami University and at 3512 W. Dublin Granville Rd. The Delaware restaurant is the first full-service, sit down space and features a more streamlined menu. “Our menu is small and focused on purpose,” shared General Manager Melissa Rizer. “The owner’s brother created all the recipes after spending several years working as a chef at a Hawaiian barbeque restaurant in California. Everything has been thoughtfully designed based on his experience and knowledge.”
There is no shortage of options, including a fish sandwich, crab rangoon, fried tofu and, of course, the Hawaiian favorite, Spam. At Ohana, it arrives rolled in rice, wrapped with seaweed and topped with yum-yum sauce. Their other entrees take on a life of their own, with huge portions accompanied by macaroni salad and a scoop of rice. Rizer recommends the teriyaki beef and katzu chicken, or opting for the meat lover’s platter to sample a little bit of everything. All of the sauces are made in-house and everything is prepared fresh to order.
We want you to walk in the door and feel like you are escaping Ohio for a while “ ”
↑ Multiple dishes from Ohana Island Grill & Bar
The same goes for the drink menu, which features a dozen different tiki cocktails. Each is crafted by hand, garnished with fresh fruit and is served in an incredibly fun glass. “We want you to walk in the door and feel like you are escaping Ohio for a while,” said Rizer. Popular drinks include the pineappleforward Painkiller, classic rum-based Hurricane, and a throwback Singapore Sling. There are three beers on tap, including Kona Big Wave, as well as a few different wines. Choose to sit inside at the bar for a full tiki experience, or sip your drink out on the welcoming patio and pretend it’s 5:00 somewhere.
Ohana is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. There is a weekday lunch special featuring $2 off any sandwich or entree, as well as a Monday through Thursday happy hour where you can score a tiki drink for just $9. “We have been very well received by the Delaware community and other small business owners. We have our own identity and aren’t in competition with anyone,” said Rizer. “Businesses in downtown Delaware truly support each other and are rooting for each other’s success. Ohana means family, and we really take that to heart.” ♦
View menus, place an online order, and see store hours by visiting ohanaislandgrill.com.
↑ Tiki drinks from Ohana Island Grill & Bar
Ice, Ice, Baby
By Chris Alexis Story Design by Tori Smith
← Chilljoy Hawaiian Shave Ice, photo by Sarah Pfeifer
Now that summer has rolled around and the heat is on, nothing cools us down quite like sno cones and shave ice. But that opens the door to big questions: Where should you go? Who has the good stuff? No worries, dear reader, because we have a round-up of some of the most popular purveyors of these sweet treats in town.
Looking for island vibes without leaving town? Check out Chilljoy Hawaiian Shave Ice. It emerged in 2018 when Stephanie McIntyre brought this Hawaiian shave ice to the capital city. As time passed, she placed the company into the hands of Kara and Joe Pashovich, who are keeping the popular spot running.
It doesn’t have a brick-and-mortar location. Instead, they work out of a food truck, and taking an outdoor adventure to find your favorite truck is sometimes half the fun. Go to their website to seek them out!
Marlow's Cheesesteaks at 93 N. High St., Gahanna, started with a food cart at Eastland Mall. You likely know them for their cheesesteaks, but they also sell water ice, a dessert similar to Italian ice but with a smoother, creamier texture that's popular in Philadelphia, where they’re from.
After gaining traction, they moved into Tuttle Mall, establishing a more permanent location. Over time, they expanded further, opening a Gahanna brick and mortar, all while steadily growing their presence.
↓ Marlow's Water Ice, photo by Jen Brown
↓ Nola DAQ Shack, Photo by Jen Brown
“Our water ice is unmatched, with tons of flavor making it indisputably one of central Ohio’s best frozen treats,” said co-owner Shanika Sheppard.
Bubba's New Orleans Shave Ice Snoballs in Grove City is proving very popular. Their small location, a stand on wheels, can be found at 4069 Hoover Rd. But it’s not the size of the sno cone stand that matters. Bubba’s offers quick service and a variety of impactful, delicious flavors.
Snoballs are a traditional treat in New Orleans, consisting of a mound of fluffy shave ice, flavored with sweet syrups and enhanced with a variety of mix-ins and toppings. →
“OUR WATER ICE IS UNMATCHED, WITH TONS OF FLAVOR MAKING IT INDISPUTABLY ONE OF CENTRAL OHIO’S BEST FROZEN TREATS.”
↓
Chilljoy Hawaiian Shave Ice, photo by Sarah Pfeifer
Libby Lou's Fun Factory is a woman-owned source of sweet, cold treats at 3039 Indianola Ave. Known as an “extreme dessert shop” that offers party services, sno cone cups are definitely on the menu!
This is a great place for families to attend. Many of their personalized party items feature Spider-Man, which is sure to be a hit with the kids. (And hey, maybe the adults too!)
Nola DAQ Shack, located at 212 Kelton Ave. in the East Market, is owned by Janvier Ward of Creole 2 Geaux, a New Orleans-inspired eatery.
Of course, they have their New Orleans-style sno cones too. While the name DAQ makes one think of daiquiris—and their frozen daiquiris is their best-seller—you won’t find any booze here. Patrons can easily slide over to two bars in the East Market for a quick alcoholic addition, if they’d like.
“We love the New Orleans-style sno cones and believe they stand apart from the rest! They are fun, fluffy, and of course, delicious,” Ward said.
Rita’s Italian Ice & Frozen Custard is peppered throughout central Ohio! Did you know their Italian Ice is made fresh daily with over 95 rotating flavors? 95! The good news is there’s something for just about everyone.
Rounding out our list: Kona Ice is another popular place to get your shave ice needs met. This is another mobile provider that doesn’t stay in one place. But that’s OK because they can come to you! Many people discover them through community events, and they offer a wide variety of flavors: from Blue Raspberry to Groovy Grape — and even Tiger’s Blood (Don’t take that name too literally).
Other flavors include Lucky Lime, Ninja Cherry, Monster Mango, and even Piña Colada.
Did your favorite spot make the list? Maybe this will inspire you to give some new places a whirl. Who knows, you may just discover your new favorite spot to cool down. ♦
↓ Chilljoy Hawaiian Shave Ice, photo by Sarah Pfeifer
↑ Chilljoy Hawaiian Shave Ice, photo by Sarah Pfeifer
↑ Marlow's Water Ice, photo by Jen Brown
Flavor Trattoria Trattoria
The Mayor of Flavortown’s first-ever Italian restaurant, Guy Fieri’s Trattoria, has landed in his hometown of Columbus, complete with home-made pasta and a whopping 68-layer lasagna
By Melinda Green / Photos by Aaron Massey
Story Design by Atlas Biro
Columbus is finally on the Flavortown map with the recent opening of Guy Fieri’s Trattoria at Scioto Downs. Despite Fieri’s Italian heritage and owning numerous restaurants, the Trattoria is his first Italian restaurant…well, sort of.
“My first exclusively Italian restaurant is in my house, so this is the one that I'm starting to invite the public to,” Fieri joked.
“I've always had this in the back of my mind. This was just the right time, and this is something that I wanted to do closer to my cousins, and I thought this would be the perfect place to roll it out.” →
The famous chef and TV personality continued, “I don't know that I picked [Scioto Downs] as much as it picked me. We have this great relationship with the Caesars Entertainment group and El Dorado, and I'm proud to be part of that. I love horse racing. I grew up at the track cleaning stalls and selling programs and maybe making a couple small bets when I was younger. So this is a good fit for all of us.”
Although Fieri was born in Columbus and is proud to be a native, his family moved to northern California when he was just a child. Still, he has cousins in the Columbus and Cleveland areas and visited Ohio frequently on family vacations. “Family is a big thing in our family,” he said. “It's a real big deal. And that's kind of what I think about when I come back here.”
The Trattoria’s ambience is nostalgic, with pictures on the wall and red-and-black décor. It’s exactly what you might expect — a mix of modern and classic. The cocktails are twists on classics too, like an oregano-garnished Manhattan and a tequila almond sour.
“I love American Italian food,” he continued. “There's things I love about traditional Italian; then there's some things that I love about how we've Americanized some of it, like the meat, chicken parm. There's a few of those things that you can't find exactly in Italy. It's a little adventurous. I feel that if we're going to go to Flavortown, we need to do it on my ticket.”
If you want traditional, they have it. They make their own pastas in-house. But Fieri is quick to point out that certain dishes really do need to use dried pasta—like the Assassin’s Spaghetti, one of his favorites.
Fieri explained, “[It’s] something you probably won't try at most Italian restaurants. It's spicy, it's hot. Typically, you cook pasta in boiling water. This is completely different. This, we take dry pasta, put it in a pan, start to char it a little bit, and then we add tomato water to it and cook it. So everything that that pasta absorbs is flavor. It is just a flavor bomb. It's a little bit more, as we would call it, Roman-style. It’s a very rustic pasta.”
And then there’s the already-famous 68-layer lasagna, rich with Bolognese and Béchamel sauces.
“I am a lasagna junkie,” Fieri admitted. “You know who wants the middle of the lasagna? Nobody wants the middle of lasagna. Everybody wants the corner.”
“So we made the lasagna to where it's got 68 layers,” he explained. “I want my layers lean and mean, and really nice, tender pasta. So what we do is we make it, we press it, we bring it together. Then when it's cold, we cut it, and then we warm it up by browning it and getting you that nice, crispy side that you like when you get the corner of the pasta.”
He continued, “I need to make sure that my team gives you something that's really beautiful. Sometimes lasagna is not the sexiest thing. This is sexy. We make sexy lasagna.” →
↑ Guy Fieri at the ribbon cutting ceremony of his new Columbus eatery
“It's go big or home. And if it's not time to go big, then we go home. But big is what you're going to get here.”
That’s another one of the trademark one-liners that endear him to so many fans. Fieri, the “Mayor of Flavortown,” admits that his one-liners are nonsensical. He said, “Flavortown doesn't even make sense. It was literally me just babbling, which you can tell I do well. But I had picked up this pizza one time, and it was so big. It looked like a steering wheel. So I picked it up, and I made a joke like, ‘Look at the steering wheel on the bus going to Flavortown.’”
Continuing the history of Flavortown, he explained, “I don't know why we edited that in. That's the most ridiculous thing in the world. A few months later, I was at this diner in Marietta, Georgia, and they made this plate of pasta, and I picked it up, and I'm like, ‘Geez, this thing looks like the manhole cover in the street of Flavortown.’ Again, where Flavortown came from—my, you know, weird squirrel hat.”
Fieri continued, “So I'm walking through the airport with my production team. We're gonna get on a flight. Like, five college students walk by and go, ‘Mayor of Flavortown!’ And I'm like, what the hell was that?”
Although he has somewhat of a captive audience at the casino, Fieri is confident that this will be a destination for diners all around the Columbus area.
“I don't do things half-ass,” he said. “I'm really an all or nothing guy—it's go big or go home. And if it's not time to go big, then we go home. But big is what you're going to get here.” ♦
Book your reservation at caesars.com/scioto-downs/restaurants/guy-fieri-trattoria.
↑ Cocktail offerings at Guy Fieri’s Trattoria ↓ The Italian Deli Salad from Guy Fieri’s Trattoria
↓ Calamari Fritto Misto from Guy Fieri’s Trattoria
left, Oh Churros owners Mishelle and Gonzalo
Authenticity meets indulgence at Oh Churros, a hot new dessert spot serving up house-made churros and much more
By Chris Alexis
Ever have a hankering for something sweet, but you can’t think of what you want? And then it hits you: “Oh, churros!”
Introducing Oh Churros, a new eatery that opened on June 1 at 2110 W. Henderson Rd. It was once the site of Upper Arlington’s Peace, Love & Little Donuts.
The new establishment is owned by Gonzalo and his wife, Mishelle. Gonzalo said that Mishelle has been a baker for more than 13 years and previously operated a home-based business creating custom-made cakes and breads.
“She started working with dough, making buñuelos, a traditional Latin and Spanish treat similar to quesada dough, and experimenting with cassava dough,” he said. “Our greatgrandparents are from Spain, and we wanted to try something from Venezuela, where we're from.”
That something? Churros. →
Photos by Jen Brown Story Design by Bryce Patterson
The churro is a traditional treat in their native country.
“In the 1940s and '50s, many Spanish immigrants came to Venezuela, and the easiest way to make money was to have a churro stand because it was inexpensive,” he said. “So, churros became super popular in Venezuela. Mishelle started researching and trying to make churros about a year and a half ago, and she found a perfect recipe that she started making for family and friends.”
They were such a hit that a business idea was born.
“We've created a fusion between the American coffee and breakfast culture and the Latino culture with churros, desserts, empanadas, and meals.”
The restaurant features two types of empanadas, which are pastries filled with different ingredients and served baked or fried. They’re popular in Latin American and Spanish cuisines.
“One is Caribbean style, made with cornmeal, and wheat flour,” Gonzalo said. “The other is Andean, made just with cornmeal and it’s gluten-free.”
Gonzalo and Mishelle moved from Venezuela to the United States in 2014. They chose to settle in Columbus after hearing from friends that it was an ideal spot to land.
“They found that Ohio has a great economy,” Gonzalo said. “It's a good place to grow financially, and it's full of greenery. And it has the best of both worlds: the cosmopolitan feeling with the restaurant culture, and it's multicultural. At the same time, it's possible to get jobs and raise your kids without spending an arm and a leg.”
Zeroing in even more, the former Peace, Love & Little Donuts location was ideal because it had the infrastructure to allow customers to see the food being made.
“We believe in transparency,” he said. “We make everything fresh from scratch every day. Fresh dough, fresh fruit, everything's fried as ordered. And we serve everything in front of the customers.”
Once they moved in, a few adjustments needed to be made. But not too many.
“It’s pretty much perfect for us,” he said.
But it wasn’t just the inside location that was so ideal. It’s the surrounding location, too. →
“I used to live three blocks away from here on Bethel Road, and we know that it's a safe place,” he said. “It has good parking, and it doesn't have that crowd of the downtown.”
And he loves the other people in the building.
“Mr. Patrick, who is at one end of the building with his wife, they're great people,” he said. “We've been blessed.”
And while people wait for their fresh food, customers can choose from a variety of tables and a bar-like area with stools.
Patrons can relax and wait to take their food to go, or they can come in and unwind, all while eating their churros and sipping coffee.
But one thing people won’t find inside: tolerance for rude behavior. Gonzalo believes that everyone, from his customers to his employees, is worthy of respect.
He shared one instance of a person being extremely difficult with one of the workers.
“Politely, we asked her to leave because we don't want anyone treating our people, our customers, our guests, or our employees in a rude manner,” he said. “We respect each other. We love each other. This is a family-owned business looking to grow into the community, but overall, looking to provide a good service for our community.”
He said it’s important everyone knows Oh Churros is a safe place for them.
“If you’re having a bad day, you can eat a churro, drink a coffee, or take a passion fruit juice, and life is going to become a little better,” emphasized Gonzalo. ♦
To grab some churros while they’re hot, visit: ohchurros.com
Seek
By Jack McLaughlin, Sasv McKee and Anthony O’Connell
Section Design by Bryce Patterson
Find
If you blink, you might miss them.
A grocery store with a secret sushi spot hidden in the middle of it, a 1960s bowling alley tucked away in a mid-century modern neighborhood, Columbus’ last drive-in theater – these are just a few of the city’s hidden gems that could be waiting right around the corner for you to find, and there are a lot more to discover, too. Our July Issue highlights 20 off-the-radar restaurants, places, and events that you may have never even heard about.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this summer, we encourage everyone to explore some of the city’s best kept secrets. You just might discover the fabled Gates of Hell, or a humble dive bar destined to become your new favorite burger joint.
Our city promises surprises around every corner, but only if you’re willing to seek them out. So what are you waiting for, Columbus?
Cornerstone Deli & Cafe
I n the mood for a cheesy breakfast sandwich? Or perhaps…sushi? A Rueben? Fried tofu pad Thai? A traditional cold cut sandwich? Or maybe keeping it light with a build-your-own-salad bar? How about all of the above, please. Cornerstone Deli offers all of this and more, and they do it really well. We know, we know – it’s sometimes concerning when a restaurant has a very eclectic menu with a bunch of items to choose from, but every single item that comes out of the kitchen here is perfect – and extremely affordable. I’m talking $6 for a loaded steak-and-egg or French dip sandwich.
Despite its unassuming appearance, this cozy spot on the corner of High & E. Longview Ave. has been a local, underthe-radar favorite for nearly two decades, known for their not-so-secret-anymore Asian food and all-American breakfast sandwiches. The sunlit atmosphere adds to its charm, evoking a nostalgic ambiance almost reminiscent of a Brooklyn cafe from the 90s. This is the kind of spot you can go to alone with a newspaper and feel like the main character from a sitcom. No specialty cappuccinos or matcha here – just drip coffee – but they do offer an incredible selection of bubble teas on an elusive menu by the cash register. This is
also one of the only restaurants in town that offer a “build-your-own-salad-bar,” with an array of ingredients and housemade salad dressings that actually make you like to eat salads. And if you and friends happened to have a little too much to drink the night before, it’s one of the only spots in town where you can grab a bacon, egg, & cheese sandwich on a bagel with a hot coffee, or a huge bowl of sesame chicken with a melon bubble tea, all in the same place, on the same ticket.
3296 N. High St.
3505 Trabue Rd.
Johnnie’s Tavern
“Liquor,” the vertically-oriented marquee sign in front of Johnnie’s Tavern reads, so largely, in fact, that you might mistake the spot for just a bar. You might even make that assumption after you’ve been inside the small and dimly-lit establishment.
But you won’t be thinking that after you try their burgers.
Located on the city’s West Side–between Upper Arlington and Hilliard–Johnnie’s is Columbus’ ultimate hole-inthe-wall burger spot, which was originally opened all the way back in 1948.
The menu is concise, offering hot dogs, fried bologna sandwiches, fries, jalapeno poppers, onion rings, and a few other sandwiches, but it’s the Johnnie Burger you’re after. The burger is nothing fancy in terms of ingredients or preparation–the sesame seed bun, faded green awning and checkered table coverings exude a timeliness that’s part of Johnnie’s allure–it just does everything right. You can thank us later.
Since Johnnie’s is a true hidden gem, they don’t have a website or social media. Check out reviews on Google and Yelp instead.
3505 Trabue Rd.
↓ Photo by Sarah Pfeifer
Cambridge Tea House
There’s no need to book a ticket to London this summer – a quaint little tea house situated near Grandview transports all of us to the English countryside for an afternoon High Tea.
Cambridge Tea House has been serving Earl Grey tea & petite scones for the past decade, all in an elegant setting that definitely makes you want to put your pinkies up, but it’s cozy and welcoming enough to leave ‘em down.
With each tea service, you’ll enjoy a scone with clotted cream and strawberry jam, your choice of three savory finger sandwiches, ranging from curried egg salad to roast beef with horseradish, plus a duo of miniature desserts, and of course, a pot of freshly brewed loose leaf tea.
The establishment also serves breakfast all day, plus a lunch menu curated by a French chef, but their tea service makes it a true hidden gem. Served in the traditional style, all on a three tiered tray, guests are invited to savor, linger, and converse with one another, reminiscent of a relaxing European afternoon, where deciding which tea to pair with your finger sandwiches is the toughest decision you’d have to make all day.
↓ Photo by NV Gay
LANCASTER FESTIVAL 2024
TMarketplaceJapan
1167 Old Henderson Rd.
he largest Japanese grocery store in Ohio happens to be nestled in a strip mall in Northwest Columbus, and while the market is a must-see, you could spend an entire afternoon at the surrounding complex, too.
Shortly after Takashi Takenaka moved from his homeland Japan to America, he opened a Japanese seafood and grocery store – Tensuke Market – inspired by his serene days spent waist-deep, fishing in nearby streams. Visitors are transported to the heart of Japan, enjoying a vast, rare selection of authentic Japanese candies, rice, snacks, meat, produce, frozen food, and even hard-to-find sakes and other Japanese beverages. There’s even a refrigerated section for carryout bento & sushi!
Over three decades, Tensuke Market has blossomed into an enclave known as Japan Marketplace, boasting six other distinct establishments, each offering a unique piece of Japanese culture and cuisine.
Adjacent to the market, you’ll find Tensuke Ramen, a fast-casual eatery with a delicious selection of noodles, curries, and dumplings. If you’re looking for sushi instead, stop over to Sushi Ten, a quick take out spot for nigiri and rolls. A couple of shops over, there’s Akai Hana, an upscale, sit-down dining experience with
Japanese chefs making the freshest sushi at the chef’s counter, as well as cooking up some succulent seafood in the open kitchen. Save room for dessert, though –right around the corner lies Belle’s Bread, a French-inspired Japanese bakery, where everything is made from scratch, in-house daily by their team of 20 pastry chefs. Gorgeous cakes, cream puffs, and even matcha soft-serve await. Last but not least, wander into J•Avenue, a curated onsite boutique brimming with whimsical souvenirs and cultural keepsakes, inviting visitors to take home Studio Ghibli plushies, ceramic sets, and hand–crafted Kokeshi dolls. Plan your visit to Japan Marketplace by
↑ Courtesy of Tensuke Market
Bazemore Pizza
While central Ohio is rich with thin, square-cut Columbus style pizza, one of the city’s best kept food secrets is a pie spot that borrows its flavors from East Coast hubs.
And while you’d likely be able to tell this from the slightly charred, bubbly crust and the triangular slices, Bazemore’s pizzas represent a “hybrid” style, incorporating aspects of three iconic American pizza regions.
“We make a hybrid style of pie. Imagine if you take New Jersey tomato pie, plus New Haven, Connecticut, plus New York and add our spin on it with a
1991 Riverside Dr., Upper Arlington
nice warm and cold fermentation process,” Billy Bazemore said.
Launched by Columbus restaurant veterans Todd Crow and Billy Bazemore inside of Upper Arlington’s Pointe Tavern, the concept is just over a year old, but has already amassed a legion of die-hard fans. And while pizza is what the people come for, you can also grab a great Italian sandwich, a salad and even meatballs from the up and coming eatery.
To view the menu and order online, check out bazemorepizzaco.com
↓ Photo by NV Gay
You know an ice cream spot is good when it’s only open a handful of months out of the year, and you know it’s even better when it only accepts cash.
Luckily, for us, the venerable Hilltop Dairy Twist is both of these.
As its name suggests, this small soft serve spot is located in The Hilltop neighborhood, but trust us when we say this: Even if you’re from the city’s far East Side, it’s worth the trip.
For reasons that are still not entirely clear, Hilltop Dairy Twist never opened for business last summer. And while that meant a whole lot of us were holding our breaths over if and when the dessert spot was returning this year, you can rest assured the Sullivant Avenue eatery has been open for business since June 1.
A quick note for your visit: Hilltop Dairy Twist is cash only, but no longer offers an in-store ATM, so make sure to grab some cash ahead of time.
Hilltop Dairy Twist
Stay updated on their hours and specials by following Hilltop Dairy Twist on Facebook.
For nearly 20 years, the Shreveport, Louisiana-born Henry Butcher Sr. has been serving up classic Creole dishes from his unpretentious storefront in the heart of King-Lincoln Bronzeville.
Butcher, the son of a farmer, cut his teeth first in a variety of Columbus eateries (starting at the age of 16), before launching Creole Kitchen in 2006 and bringing many of his childhood recipes to the heart of the Midwest, each one brought to life with the concept’s line of house-made seasonings.
Currently, Creole Kitchen is located where it’s been for the last 18 years, at 1052 Mt. Vernon Ave. Later this year, the
concept is planning to relocate to 795 E. Long St., inside The Ogden, a mixed-use building.
According to Creole Kitchen CEO Antoinette Parks, the move will keep the eatery in the King-Lincoln Bronzeville neighborhood, which is important to Parks and Butcher, but will offer a larger, updated space and more visibility.
This way, you can also tell your friends you knew Creole Kitchen before it gets big, too.
Hungry? Check out their menu at creolekitchen.biz.
Photos by Sarah Pfeifer
Creole Kitchen
Looking for summersomefun? Looking for summersomefun? Looking for summersomefun? Looking for summersomefun?
We’re hosting multiple events this summer at Vineyard Columbus Church. Check out what we have going on in June, July & August for everyone!
pickleball
community service pickleball movie nights community service
movie nights
Two Dollar Radio Headquarters
↓ Photo by Elizabeth Maselli
Is it a bookstore? An event space?
A made-from-scratch vegan café? Actually, it’s all three.
Eric Obenauf, the co-founder of Two Dollar Radio Headquarters, shared that the café opened in 2017 to attract more visitors and create a communal, inclusive atmosphere. Integrating coffee, vegan cuisine, and conversation into the book browsing experience has made it both a social and literary hub.
Their kitchen prides itself on everything being scratch-made in small batches, from meat substitutes to nut-cheezes and sauces. Instead of using traditional mock meats or cheezes, they spotlight real plants. Ingredients like mushrooms, eggplants, walnuts, and cashews aren’t just common; they're the stars in their gigantic dishes, nourishing both mind and body. Plus, dining here supports local artisans like Mushroom Harvest Provisions and Happy Little Treats.
You can get great books from independent publishers, delicious food, incredible coffee drinks, and community here, all in one extremely cozy atmosphere, hidden away right on Parsons Ave.
out Two Dollar Radio’s unique menu by visiting twodollarradiohq.com/menu/.
Dollar Headquarters
KOSHI
I
nside Saraga International Grocery, a secret spot for some of the best, most authentic Korean food awaits. It might not look like your average restaurant, with just a walk-up counter and a few tables, but KOSHI thrives on bold Korean flavors and traditions, serving up everything from crispy Korean fried chicken to hearty stews and fresh sushi. Every dish celebrates Korea's rich culinary heritage, prepared with the freshest ingredients found right here in Columbus.
Their menu is full of hits, and a lot of these dishes are customizable and
available vegetarian. Definitely try the Tteok-Bok-Ki, a spicy comfort classic with rice cakes and fish cakes. To step up the comfort level even more, treat yourself by adding mozzarella and watch this dish transform into a gooey delight. Their Signature Korean Boneless Fried Chicken is a must-try too, with crispy chicken coated in KOSHI’s secret sauce— a tasty combo of honey, soy, and some spice. It comes with crisp lettuce coleslaw, tangy pickled radish, and traditional Banchan (Korean side dishes). And their sushi bar serves some of the freshest rolls around.
Every visit to KOSHI is an adventure in flavors that will satisfy both newbies and seasoned fans of Korean cuisine. Next time you're near Saraga International Grocery, stop by KOSHI and discover what you've been missing out on!
Plan your next visit to Koshi at koshiohio.com. 1265
American Whistle FactoryCorp.
Have you ever thought about how they get that tiny ball inside of whistles? We know you have.
If you want the answer to that, and other important (whistle-related) questions, then a tour of the American Whistle Corp. factory on the city’s North Side may be in order.
Believe it or not, the Columbus factory is the only manufacturer of metal whistles in the entire country, and they’ve been churning them out now for more than half a century (beginning in 1956, although the company was purchased by a new owner in 2018).
The process, which is unique to American Whistle Corp., involves coiled brass, 30-ton presses, cutting edge soldering tables and more. The last step, in case you were wondering, is putting the ball inside the whistle.
American Whistle makes over a million whistles each year, and thousands of people tour the facility annually. And you can be one of them. Tours are just $10 per person, and can be booked on their website.
940 S. Hempstead Rd., Westerville
Inniswood Metro Gardens
Fairytales do exist, at least in this central Ohio “metro garden.”
A scenic nature preserve tucked away in Westerville transports you to gardens you only thought existed in story books. The 123-acre Inniswood Metro Gardens is abundant with streams and woodlands awash with 2,000 species of plants and wildlife. It boasts ten featured gardens, plus a variety of accessible hiking trails.
The Woodland Rock Garden in particular draws visitors from all over the Midwest. With funding established by retailer JCPenney, a rock garden was constructed in 1991, featuring a circulating system of three layered pools, connected by a stream. The different layers of rocks
create small waterfalls, making it one of the most popular attractions for nature lovers and photographers.
Other specialty gardens include an Herb Garden, a Rose Garden, a Wetland Garden, a Woodland Garden, a Secret Garden, plus many more. There are also two mazes throughout the gardens – The Story Maze, which tells a Native American creation myth legend, and the Circle Maze.
This community garden was created by the Innis Sisters, who acquired a 38-acre slice of land in 1960. Grace Innis had an affinity for horticulture and art, while Mary Innis loved the deep woods, birdwatching, and spotting wildlife. They agreed that in the future, they wished for their property
to be preserved as public gardens and woodlands. When Mary passed away, Grace donated the land to Metro Parks, and Metro Parks was very receptive to the offer. After a variety of local partnerships, Inniswood Metro Gardens was able to expand its facilities.
Today, Inniswood is visited by more than a quarter of a million people each year, with each visitor completely enchanted by the idyllic gardens, trails, and wildflowers, all thanks to the Innis sisters’ generosity.
Plan your next visit to Inniswood by visiting inniswood.org.
Sitting on the remnants of the Old Deaf School Park is the only topiary garden in existence to be based on a work of art, and people from all over the world make it a point to visit it. You absolutely should, too.
It’s probably difficult to imagine what a park based on a work of art even means, but we’ll paint a picture for you: The Topiary Park features a stunning garden based on one of the most famous Post-Impressionists paintings of all time, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte by George Seurat. The topiaries, which are bushes and trees, are hedged to be human, animal, and objectshaped, all perfectly blending together to
create a reproduction of this world-wide famous piece of art.
The concept was created by the Columbus-based sculptor, James T. Mason and his wife Elaine, who unveiled their creation to the Greater Columbus arts scene back in 1992. If you look closely, you’ll find 54 people, eight boats, and a number of adorable animals situated by the park’s pond, which is supposed to replicate the River Seine in the original painting.
This secret garden located in Columbus’ Discovery District is the perfect getaway for a picnic, a stroll, or some solitude. The lush greenery and colorful flowers, all with historical buildings as its backdrop, invites guests to enjoy nature and art, all in one.
One of the best parts is that it’s completely free, unlike other small topiaries in larger cities. Plus, from May to August, on the 4th Friday of every month, enjoy free movie screenings in this gorgeous setting, complete with free trivia and a selection of local food trucks.
Visit The Topiary Park on Facebook to stay up to date on events happening here.
TopiaryPark
Sequoia Pro Bowl
Even this neighborhood bowling alley’s website boasts that this is the “best kept secret in Columbus.” We’d have to agree.
You’ll definitely need your Google Map app to find this clandestine weekend hangout spot, called Sequoia Pro Bowl. It’s nestled in a quiet, mid-century neighborhood between Worthington and Westerville, and the bowling alley itself still looks preserved from when it first opened in the early 1960s, in the best way possible.
One of the best parts about this vintage bowling alley is that there seems to always be a lane open, even on busy tournament days and Saturdays filled with
birthday parties. And, if there happens to not be a spot open, lounge about in their huge bar and enjoy a draft beer paired with their delicious, Columbus-style pizza, or step outside on their outdoor patio bar, adjacent to the sand volleyball courts.
Fair warning – when you’re brought back in time, you lose track of time. It’s easy to spend an entire day or night here on the beautiful wooden lanes, especially if you have one too many of their signature California Crack cocktails. Not speaking from personal experience or anything…
Book your next private event or night out at sequoiaprobowl.com.
5501 Sandalwood Blvd.
3050 S. High St.
South Drive-In Theatere
There are only about 300 drive-in movie theaters left in the U.S., two dozen of them being in Ohio.
Although Columbus was booming with drive-in theaters from the 40s through the 80s (around 17 of them existed in central Ohio), only one of them remains here, and it’s still as iconic as ever. The South Drive-In is a staple for those who prefer watching new & classic movies from the comfort of their car, or even out on lounge chairs with their friends.
The South Drive-In Theatere first opened in 1950, quickly becoming one of the best hangout spots on the South Side
of Columbus. In 1972, the old telephone tower screen was replaced by a modern steel screen, but history has it that a tornado tore down the brand new screen just a year later. When the tornado rolled through the drive-in on a Wednesday evening in late May, many patrons chose to stay to view the movie. Some ended up hiding from the strong tornado winds in the drainage ditch by the box office!
Now, decades later, this longstanding drive-in is still a staple in the community, and you can even score some antiques at their Saturday morning flea markets they host on their grounds. They offer fun
vintage screenings on occasion, but also hit new releases, too. With a concession stand offering favorites like funnel cakes, nachos, and deep-fried Oreos, plus of course, heavily buttered popcorn and crisp fountain sodas, it’s easy to see why this institution has stayed around so long while others have closed their doors.
Plan your next outing to South Drive-In Theatere by visiting drive-inmovies.com.
→ Photos courtesy of South Drive-In Theatre
Tall Pines at Walnut Woods
6833 Richardson Rd., Groveport
G et lost in the woods here, but like, in a really fun way.
While all of the metro parks throughout Columbus are pretty incredible, there’s one in particular that makes you feel as if you’re in the Pacific Northwest.
The Walnut Woods Metro Park boasts over 1,000 acres of woodlands, ravines, creeks, sandstone cliffs, wetlands, various species of birds, and fields full of wildflowers. But many park goers are absolutely stunned by the Tall Pines area in particular.
A thick path of fallen tree needles and a fresh scent of pine lead you to an area
where hundreds of dramatic pine and sweetgums tower over you, creating a canopy of forest green hues that you can’t find anywhere else in central Ohio.
Local legend says that the pines were all planted by local convicts when the City of Columbus owned the land, before Metro Parks eventually acquired it. In 1981, the 20 acre area was planted with young trees with the intention of uprooting them and dispersing them throughout the city, but the trees grew too large to relocate them!
It’s not all about the pines though. There’s a Pin Oak growing in the Tall Pines area that’s the second largest Pin Oak in
Ohio, standing at 110 feet tall and a trunk of 19 feet in circumference. It’s believed to be between 150 and 200 years old, according to the members of Big Trees Ohio.
To plan your visit to Walnut Woods, visit metroparks.net.
Gates of Hell
Glen Echo Park (2700 block of N. High St. is the closest address)
In case you didn’t know, Clintonville’s Glen Echo Park is full of secrets. Cool ones.
A graffiti-adorned metal grid that blocks off a drainage tunnel, the reality of this gem isn’t as badass as it sounds (Gates of Drainage Tunnel doesn’t have the same ring), but it’s definitely worth checking out. The tunnel technically carries a stream from Glen Echo to the Olentangy, but is often dry.
Don’t take this for an invitation to explore inside, however, because that’s definitely not legal. Please don’t go inside the actual tunnel, people.
↑ Photo by NV Gay
Shale Hollow Park
One of the coolest ways to keep cool this summer isn’t at a neighborhood pool or out-of-state beach – it’s actually at a gorgeous local creek lined by 30-40 ft. shale cliffs.
You’ll only find something like this at Shale Hollow Park, a 211-acre park discreetly off the beaten path in Delaware County. Guests are allowed to, and encouraged actually, to wade in the shallow creek that’s flourishing with toads, fish, snails, moss, and other incredible living beings and organic matter (don’t mind the water snakes – they’re harmless). Giant rocks lay in the creek beds, perfect for
hopping on for those who don’t want to get their feet wet, but there’s deeper areas to wade in, too, for the more adventurous crowd.
Maybe dipping your toes into fresh, cold creek water isn’t necessarily your thing? No judgment here (okay, maybe a little bit), but fortunately, there are plenty of other nature-centered activities for everyone to enjoy. Shale Hollow features off-trail exploration, natural play areas, a mature white oak forest, and a large assortment of wildlife to observe.
Plan your trip to Shale Hollow Park by visiting preservationparks.com.
Did you know that the central Ohio city of Reynoldsburg is often regarded as the birthplace of the commercial tomato? If you look closely, there’s even a tomato in the city’s logo.
To celebrate, nearly every summer since 1965, Reynoldsburg has held a city-wide festival, and one that incorporates a massive Tomato War, which is exactly what it sounds like.
The Tomato War actually started as a tomatopacked duel between Democrats and Republicans in the early days of the festival, and while things have become a bit less political lately (the tomato takes no sides, after all), it’s still a great time.
ReynoldsburgTomato Festival
That’s not all the long-time local event offers, either. In addition to the annual Tomato War, the festival also contains a pizza contest (where you can sample Reynoldsburg-area pizzerias and vote for your favorite), a round robin pickleball tournament, a spaghetti-eating contest (which actually gets sort of intense), plus plenty of food and games for the kids.
Additionally, the festival is jam-packed with live music, and is headlined Aug. 10 by none other than Sister Hazel, the band behind the 90s radio hit “All for You,” which peaked at number 7 on the charts in 1997.
1640 Davidson Dr., Reynoldsburg (Huber Park)
↑ Photo courtesy of Reynoldsburg Tomato Festival
All Ohio Balloon Festival
760 Clymer Rd., Marysville
While from a literal perspective, it’s pretty much impossible for a hot air balloon to be considered hidden, from a figurative one, this Marysville festival is still solidly under the radar, considering everything it offers.
Held this year on Aug. 8-10, the festival features daily balloon launches and special after-dark balloons that glow in the dark, in addition to real-life hot air balloon rides on-site.
And if balloons aren’t your thing, but flying through the sky still is, the festival also offers rides (for a price) in a number of other aircrafts, including helicopters and even a kestrel warbird airplane. Flights for the latter are offered in milder varieties for beginners in addition to more intense “aerobatic” flights.
While the event does sort of lend itself to fans of all things aerial, if you’re the kind of person who prefers to not leave the ground at all, the Balloon Festival still has plenty for you, offering a bounty of food trucks—with everything from kettle corn to funnel cakes—and live musical entertainment throughout the day.
Bird Tunnel Party
Sure, you might know about the bird tunnel in Clintonville’s Glen Echo Park, but did you know there’s also an entire one-day music and arts event that takes place inside of it?
This year, for its sixth year, the aptlynamed Bird Tunnel Party will be held on Sept. 1, from 12:30-8:30 p.m.
While all the details of this year’s event haven’t been made public just yet, in previous years, Bird Tunnel Party has featured live music taking the stage every hour, creating the coolest dance party you’ve probably never heard of, just off the beaten path in Clintonville.
Glen Echo Park (2700 block of Indianola Dr. is the closest address)
Previous iterations of the event have also featured everything from live yoga to picnic spaces to grab a bite to eat, and much more.
Did we mention that this year’s Bird Tunnel Party will be taking place with a recently-updated mural in the Glen Echo tunnel? Because if you’d seen the state of the bird mural several years ago, you’d know that was a much needed upgrade.
Join
the party by following Bird Tunnel on Facebook.
↓ Photo courtesy of Bird Tunnel Party
↓ Photo by Björn Anderson
It may be hot this summer in Columbus, but Man-About-Town Matt Mahoney shows us how to keep cool, with his summertime ode to the public swimming pool
By
shouldn’t need to say this, but I will: Columbus is hot.
These temperatures—often upwards of 90 degrees— pose a number of concerns, and while I’m sure there are more serious issues at play, my first worry surrounds my own discomfort. I’ve always been a little hot-blooded, making summer an occasionally troublesome time for your Man-AboutTown. There are a selection of natural swimming holes, but – and I say this as a person who grew up swimming in Lake Erie – my fear of brain eating amoebas has led me to seek out more chlorinated alternatives.
All of that is to say: Grab your trunks and pack your bags folks –we’re going to the pool.
Matt Mahoney / Photos by Jen Brown Story Design by Tori Smith
Some of you might be lucky enough to have a pool yourselves, or even better, a friend or neighbor with a pool, but I’ve found such locales are a bit too exclusive for my tastes. In my mind, part of the joy of going for a dip involves the social aspect. Pools are for the people.
As it just so happens, Columbus has a wealth of public pools that dot the city – one only a half mile from my South Side home –and so with the thermo climbing well into the 80s on an otherwise unoccupied Friday, I resolve to check out the nearby Lincoln Pool in Vassor Village.
While other public facilities and housing in the neighborhood have begun to show signs of wear, Lincoln Pool is an all-around spiffy affair. Between the twin water slides, diving boards, and a shallow play area for the kids, Lincoln Pool offers something for swimmers of all ages. An eclectic—if slightly unexpected— mix of tunes featuring the likes of Tupac and Big Pun play as I walk by the office, and I immediately begin to feel at home.
I pulled aside the facility’s manager, Caleb Patterson, to learn more about the space.
“If you go to a YMCA or you know, private pools like you were saying, you have to buy a membership, and at this point it’s an exclusive thing, whereas the community [pool] is for everybody in the community,” he said.
This community-centered approach is reflected in the community atmosphere, as well as flat-rate admission for all Columbus Municipal pools: a single dollar.
Despite the generally joyous mood at the pool, things can be dangerous at times. You could slip running on the pool deck and break your neck, you could dive into water that is too shallow and break your neck, you could even turn your face to catch the sun a little too fast and – in the right circumstances – cause some serious strain to your neck.
Outside of a Royal Rumble, I’m not sure there’s a more dangerous place for necks on Earth.
As I surveyed the grounds with my photographer, we drew the interest of a few curious young swimmers. After a quick chat, I was invited to race one of my new pals down the water slide. I finished a full 8 seconds behind my opponent, and while I suspect she went into this challenge knowing that one slide is faster than the other, I congratulated her nonetheless.
After sampling all the pool has to offer, I eventually returned home, although this would not quite be the end of the week’s excursions.
A few days later as I put my thoughts on the topic of pools into words, the city of Columbus finds itself inside the oppressive grasp of a weather phenomenon called a “heat dome,” a weather system that traps hot air within the dome and pushes colder weather out to the fringes. It is 94 degrees out, but feels like a balmy 101. I venture out into the community to see what my neighbors are doing to stay cool, and to no surprise, I find the pools are packed to the gills.
I first stop at another Columbus City pool in the Driving Park neighborhood on the East Side. Like Lincoln, the Driving Park pool is clean, and updated with features to accommodate swimmers of all ages and persuasions. There are a grand total of eight city pools across Columbus, all of them quality institutions by my estimation; and with admission set at the low price of a single dollar, I would invite anyone with an interest in staying cool (that is, everyone) to give our city’s fair facilities a chance if you have not already. You won’t find yourself getting in any races at your apartment’s measly pool, and you’re lying to yourself if you think that 110 pound lifeguard is going to jump in to save you if you go under after spending all day pounding High Noons.
Wherever you do decide to go, as your Man-About-Town I leave you with this: when pooling, go public. Many of the fancier pools are in the suburbs are great, like Bexley and Upper Arlington, but I’m just not sure they’re worth paying 10-12x what you would for a Columbus option
Our public facilities are light years beyond the backyard or apartment kiddie pools that most resort to out of convenience, but they also provide a unique glimpse into life in Columbus as a whole. You’re bound to run into nearly anyone at a public pool — since none of us can withstand 90 degree heat without some help — and there’s something great about the socially cross-cutting nature of the public pool.
Columbus may be hot, but the wonderful civic pools that dot our fair city are as cool as ever.
A Columbus resident owner—and parent to four dogs himself—has dug deep into his heart, and his pockets, by hosting a dog adoption event that will see him personally cover all fees
By Kyrie Thomas
Photos by Emma Mortellaro Story Design by Bryce Patterson
↑ Tarek Albast, owner of Habibi Grill, and his dogs
Donut, Waffle, Pancake.
These three words seem to represent the components for a perfect breakfast. However, for Tarek Albast, they represent the names of his best friends.
Tarek, owner and executive chef for Habibi Grill, is not one to shy away from detailing his love for his dogs–however, his fondness for the furry creatures has taken time to develop. Growing up without ever having or truly wanting a dog, Tarek felt his mindset shift once he migrated to Columbus.
Now, he has four dogs whom he cares for, with names stemming from a love of food: Donut (cavapoo), Waffle (cockapoo), Pancake (goldendoodle) and Diva (bulldog) whose name was instead prompted by her princess-attitude.
“I had never had a dog,” Tarek explained.
“After the first four, I regretted every minute of my life not having dogs.”
Originally raised in Lebanon, Tarek recalled the mistreatment and miseducation that surrounded dogs in his native country. He knew he had the opportunity to do the opposite when it came to caring for animals in Columbus.
Franklin County Dog Shelter and Adoption Center has long been on a mission, like many, to provide dogs with a safe and caring environment
while waiting for adoption. Sadly, when providing this care, the shelter came to realize the imbalance between the number of dogs needing homes and the number of kennels available for shelter.
“Right place, right time” is exactly what can describe the events that took place on April 22.
When watching the news, Tarek happened to catch a segment referencing the shelter’s overflowing number of dogs–which forced them to halt the shelter of any additional animals.
Tarek immediately offered a helping hand, and within a week, both parties had agreed on the first step towards a solution: Tarek would cover the adoption fees for all dogs adopted at a July event he plans to host.
“I don’t want to see any dogs put down because they have no home,” Tarek explained as his reason for responding to the news so quickly. “I love dogs, and I came from a country where the animal is not really appreciated, and it breaks my heart – and while I’m here, I want to change that.”
While easing the adoption process for the many dogs is a feat most would be impressed with, Tarek knew he had the platform and opportunity to do more – and so, he turned to the grounds of Habibi Grill with an idea. →
I had never had a dog... After the first four, I regretted every minute of my life not having dogs.
↓ Tarek Albast's dogs
One of the faster-growing restaurants in the area, Habibi Grill will be opening its outside lot on July 24 to all doglovers–whether you already have one, or are looking to add one to the family.
With a special dog menu, free dog treats, and the Franklin County Dog Shelter bringing 30 dogs from their facility, the event aims not only to find new homes for canines in need, but to raise awareness towards the lack of resources and unsafe conditions that can occur for the animals.
Keeping in line with his previous efforts, Tarek and Habibi Grill will be covering adoption costs for any of the dogs adopted during the event.
“I want people to open their eyes and spread the love, and I want them to know dogs deserve homes,” said Tarek.
The event will take place from 6-8 p.m. and will result in the parking lot being closed off, as the space will be used to host the soon-to-be adopted animals. Attendees are also invited to enjoy live music, bring their own furry best-friend and–of course– grab a bite from the authentic Lebanese cuisine Habibi Grill has to offer.
“I don’t think anyone on Earth can give you a love like dogs can,” Tarek emphasized. “When I get home, they’re waiting by the door. They’re always there.”
With July 24 being the only date announced for the event, Tarek states that there are plans for a second round of the event with another 30 dogs taking place this year, too. Stay tuned! ♦
For more information, type “Habibi Grill Dog Adoption Event” into your Facebook search bar.
↑ Albast and his dogs outside of his restaurant, Habibi Grill
Columbus, meet Nellie – A.K.A Smelly Nellie, Nellie Bellie, and Sour Patch Kid (first she’s sour, then she’s sweet). Her newest nickname?
“The Cutest Dog in Columbus,” awarded to Nellie through our annual Cutest K9 Contest, which ran May 31-June 18. Graciously sponsored by OSU Veterinary Medical Center, over 17,500 people voted on the city's most adorable pup.
Nellie is a 9 month old dappled dachshund, who apparently, according to her parents Daniel and Chloe Young, is a complete velcro dog. “She’s always glued to somebody,” laughed Chloe. When Nellie’s not cuddling with her parents and almost every other human she meets, she’s burrowing under blankets and constantly digging. “She’ll even try to dig the air,” Chloe said.
She’s not always an angel, though. “She’s still rotten, but she does it in a way that you can’t be upset with her,” Nellie’s parents joked. “The moment she does something wrong, she rolls on her back and shows her belly to everyone. Everybody’s captivated by her.”
Sounds very fitting for a dachshund, which is an aspect that drew the Youngs towards that breed. They explained, “We were wanting
a dachshund for a long time, and around the time we got married, we knew we wanted to add a dachshund to our family for their funny, bubbly personality, loyalty, and cuddles.”
According to Chloe, she’s not entirely surprised that Nellie won the Cutest K9 Contest. "I think it’s fitting she was voted the cutest,” Chloe said. “She loves getting attention. If she was a person, she’d be the loudest person in the room.”
Mary Spittler, an Associate Director of OSU Veterinary Medical Center, also isn’t shocked that Nellie won the contest. “To me, every dog is cute, but Nellie is a perfect winner. I’m excited for her!” exclaimed Spittler.
Although Spittler is a huge fan of all K9s alike, she and her team at OSU Veterinary Medical Center also love and care for cats, farm animals, and even horses. The vet center comprises six different hospitals that all focus on ensuring all animals have access to high quality, specialized veterinary care services.
The primary care center, called the Frank Stanton Spectrum of Care Clinic,
is focused towards companion dogs and cats, and it’s comparable to a family doctor for humans. It’s where you take your furry friends for their checkups. Best of all, this is one of the only facilities in the United States where fourth year vet school students are leading the care, backed by faculty clinicians, which means animals are cared for by the best hands who have learned all of the latest, state-of-the-art techniques.
Next door, there’s the specialty care and emergency & critical care center that deals with cardiology, oncology, and as Spittler put it, “Everything you’d imagine from human specialty healthcare, but for dogs and cats.” When your animal has an emergent, serious, or life-threatening condition that needs the very best veterinary emergency and critical care services, OSU’s Veterinary Medical Center team is there to help, every step of the way. They know that watching your pet go through a difficult time can be heart wrenching, which is why they provide the fastest, most comprehensive and compassionate care possible. They consider your pet their own.
And of course, with it being Ohio and all, OSU also offers a hospital fully dedicated to farm animals, plus an ambulatory service out in Marysville that will travel to farms to help animals in need. Their Galbreath Equine Center cares specifically for horses, where trained professionals conduct sports medicine techniques and rehab for sport horses, and surgery and internal medicine.
This $45 million operation, with 60,000 pet cases, 36 different services, and 640 team members, is dedicated to promoting animal wellbeing through modern vet care in an academic and research based setting. “Everything we do benefits the animals,” Spittler said. ♦
By Sav McKee | Story Design by Bryce Patterson
For more information about OSU Veterinary Medical Center’s cutting edge technology and care, visit vmc.vet. osu.edu/about.
From giant bernedoodles to blind and deaf dachshunds, meet the pets behind the (614) Magazine team
Like any pet people, we here at (614) Magazine can’t stop talking out about furry friends. And since we have you as a captive audience, you’re about to learn a whole lot more about the pets behind the people at your favorite local magazine. ↓
NUGGET
Anna Gerhard Account Executive
Meet Nugget! He is our playful, loyal 3 year old goldendoodle! Nugget was the runt of the litter, and was golden-cream in color as a younger pup. But don’t let that fool you, our “little golden nugget” is a thriving 84 lbs of fluffy love! He enjoys going on walks, playing with friends and is really good at telling his humans that it’s time to stop working and pay attention to him.
COOPER
Jack McLaughlin Editor
Our dog, Cooper, is a 9 year old black lab/ bluetick hound. We rescued him from the Iowa County (Wisconsin) animal shelter while we were living in Madison, Wisconsin, thinking he was just a black lab. Approximately 50 escapes later (this is not a joke), we learned he's actually half bluetick hound, and he lives for adventure. Too bad it's an adventure that’s outside of our yard.
MALCOLM
Lizzy Saunders Brand
Manager,
614 Lager
My dog Malcolm is a 3 year old mutt. He is half Shiba Inu, the other half consists of pit bull, doberman, and husky. He is super timid and shy around other people, but loves other dogs and couldn’t be crazier at home. He loves annoying his cat siblings, cuddling with us in bed, and chewing up dad’s hats. He is the best addition to our family and I couldn’t imagine life without him.
Photos by Emma Mortellaro Story Design by Bryce Patterson
MAX
Paul VanHorn Sales Manager
Our dog Max is a 7 year old Bichonpoo. Max is really smart and very obedient, and the best dog we’ve had. His superpowers are an ear-piercing bark and the ability to destroy every toy we’ve ever given him – usually within 24 hours.
HEINRICH
Mindy Wilhite
Senior Account Executive
Heinrich is our four year old Giant Schnauzer. He's very attached to his family, some might call him a velcro dog. He love treats, squeaky toys, walks, and most of all, he loves to snuggle. Heinrich is very protective of his family, but is a very sweet and gentle boy.
GUS & PEANUT
Sav McKee Assistant Editor
My two dachshunds are everything to me! They were both born blind & deaf, but you would never know. Just ask everyone in Schiller Park – my dogs think they rule the place. Both of them are the (very cute but unfortunate) result of irresponsibly breeding two Dapple Dachshunds together (basically, breeding two speckled dachshunds together results in deformities in the litter – in this case, my dogs’ eyes and cochleas never developed). Gus (10) was rescued by one of my favorite local organizations, Speak for the Unspoken, and Peanut (1) was rescued from a puppy mill situation. Their favorite things are couch snuggles and pupcakes from local dog bakery, Cakehound, in German Village. Please consider adopting
EDDIE
Lindsay Press CEO
Columbus, meet Eddie. He’s a four year old bernedoodle, who also happens to be the brother of Meggin’s dog, Ayce. He loves long walks around the neighborhood (he may enjoy walks on the beach too, although I’m not totally sure), as well as eating things he knows he shouldn’t. He’s also sporting a fresh haircut for the summer, in case you were wondering why he looks so sharp.
SAMMY & AYCE
Meggin Weimerskirch Sales Director
I have two dogs that I adore. Let me tell you a little bit more:
Sammy's seven, with nicknames a-few, rescued and named after Sammy Davis Jr, too.
Half shar pei, half cocker spaniel, oh my! He's a mini hippo, and he's quite spry. Can be aggressive, but loves to be mellow, ear rubs and belly pets, he's a charming fellow.
Ayce, the Bernedoodle, at the age of five, a shy little runt, but oh, so alive. Nicknamed Aycie, Aycie Boy, it's true, with a big heart, and a love for his mommy too.
ARLO
Emma Mortellaro Marketing Coordinator
This is my one-year-old Corgi, Arlo. A few things he loves are belly rubs, treats, and his girlfriends (specifically a black lab that lives in our neighborhood named Finley). However, there are also a few things he despises that make him unique: sneezes, lint rollers, and the buttons on the microwave. Despite his interesting quirks, he is the most loving and loyal dog and I'm so lucky to have him by my side!
