(614) October 2020 by 614mediagroup

BIG PICTURE Nina West wears a mask while filming a PSA with Work Flow by Aunt Flow shot at The Snowden Grey Mansion on E Town Street. PHOTO BY JULIAN FOGLIETTI

(614) MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2020 614NOW.COM

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OCTOBER 2020 (614) MAGAZINE

Contents

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(614) MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2020 614NOW.COM

C O V E R PA C K A G E COLUMBEST 2020

KISS OF FIRE

BACK TO BASICS

FARMERS MARKETS

EARLY BIRD GETS THE BOOZE

ABBOTT & CLARK

LIVING ART

THE PUMPKIN KING

103

ON THE COVER:

Illustration by Sarah Moore

Opening Volley PUBLISHER Wayne T. Lewis

STEPHANIE WEST Editor-In-Chief

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Lindsay Press EDITOR IN CHIEF Stephanie West

Columbus, you’re the BEST —now take this list and go enjoy the capital city

ell, Columbus, you read the ballots, you debated the answers with good friends over beers (or maybe just with your dog at the computer screen), and then you cast that golden vote for all of your favorites across Central Ohio, from restaurants and bars to services and celebrities. And now, we present to you the winners in (614)’s 11th annual BEST OF issue, where we let you, the people, speak to those things Columbus that really capture your heart. Sure, we saw some of the same winners take the crown again thanks to impeccable customer service and amazing food and/ or products—to you folks we say CONGRATS for being that comfortable, well-loved place we Central Ohioans love to call home. We also saw some new and surprising wins this year, where businesses who normally take the second or third spot (or who are brand-spanking new to the Best board) step it up and take the “W.” To you folks we say, “NOOIIICCCE!” You upped the competition for BEST OF and raised the bar for next year’s contest. You’ll also see some new categories this year that came about because of COVID, like Best Carry Out and Best Curbside Pick-Up. In fact, the appearance of this issue in October instead of May is evidence of the ongoing pandemic that has changed our lives, but not our tastes. In fact, now, more than ever, we see the capital city rallying around businesses to keep them afloat; to keep them surviving, hopefully long after the pandemic has passed. In fact, we’d love to see you take this issue of ColumBEST and use it as your guide to try new things and businesses here in Columbus as we all work together to keep Columbus moving forward. Need a place to take Fido while you go on Christmas vacation? See our winners for Best Doggie Daycare. Looking for a gourmet burger? We’ve a great top three list. How about a Date Night restaurant or Late Night Eats? Yep, we’ve got those, too. As well as the Best Drinking Patio, Movie Theater, and Fitness Studio—the list goes on. Everything and anything in Columbus you could possibly want to know is the BEST, we’ve got it covered.

And one more thing—while we do have a curated list in this issue of everything you love about the capital city, we have to admit, there’s even more out there than what we have listed. In fact, every time we think we know you, Columbus, you surprise us with a new restaurant opening, a new local shop filling a space on High Street, or a new service we suddenly realize (thanks to you) we just can’t live without. That’s what makes Columbus great—we have the BEST and then we have even more beyond that. If we were a pro hockey team, we’d roll four lines deep. Honestly, thanks to you all, we can’t wait to do this again next year and see how you’ve changed and grown, Columbus. To see how you’ve helped our Central Ohio businesses keep on keeping on through a worldwide pandemic and come out the other side—on our BEST OF list. Seriously, you really are the BEST, Columbus. We know it, you know it, now check out who you voted for and go out and let the winners know it, too.

(614) MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2020 614NOW.COM

ASSISTANT EDITOR Allison Grimes 614NOW DIGITAL EDITOR Lori Schmidt 614 CAMPUS EDITOR Nicholas Youngblood STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Julian Foglietti

CONTRIBUTORS Jaelani Turner-Williams Jack Mclaughlin Melinda Green Zak Kolesar

Lindsey Escaja LEAD DESIGNER Sarah Moore CREATIVE DESIGNERS Justin Remotap, Paul Barton DIRECTOR OF VIDEO John Thorne VIDEO EDITOR Maddy Van Buren ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Meggin Weimerskirch ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Nikki Harris, Mindy Wilhite Kelly Robson

(614) Magazine 458 E Main St., Columbus, OH 43215 Office: (614) 488-4400 | Fax: (614) 488-4402 Email submissions to: editor@614columbus.com www.614now.com

S TA F F P I C K S

Fall Feels

The October (614) issue is jam-packed with our 11th annual BEST OF choices, so we asked our staffers what their “best of” for fall is—in 25 words or less, what's your favorite memory, tradition, or aspect of the fall season?

( LET TER to the EDITOR ) We want to hear from you, Columbus. And Letter to the Editor is just the place to do it. Like something? Hate something? It’s fair game. Send us your thoughts (no profanity or name calling—let’s keep it clean) to editor@614now.com and sound off on the good and bad about us, Columbus, or what you’re seeing in your area of Central Ohio.

Hands down pumpkin carving, but not for the jack o' lanterns. I'm in it for the roasted pumpkin seeds when all the mess is cleared away!! — Julian Foglietti, Photographer

Trading my brother my good trick-or-treat candy for the garbage ones. I would risk everything for those peanut butter taffies in the colored wax paper, and Sixlets. Yes, SIXLETS.

ON the WEB Do you check your news and entertainment updates on 614now. com? You should. Every day we’re posting Columbus’s 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. black_cat_01

— Justin Remotap, Graphic Designer

My favorite part of fall is wishing it were still summer. — Sarah Moore, Lead Graphic Designer

Leaves changing colors, cool days and cozy nights, and the return of college football. — Meggin Weimerskirch, Advertising Director

My birthday is two days before Halloween, so loving fall is kind of in my DNA. I loved fall before it was trendy. — Jayci Haase, Marketing Director PHOTO BY J U L IA N FOGL IET T I

Those pumpkin spice-smelling pine cones outside of the grocery store. I want everything to smell that good. — Stephanie West, Editor-In-Chief

My favorite part of fall?! Watching Halloween Town, Hocus Pocus, and Harry Potter on Disney Channel!! And eating tons of candy corn. — Kelly Robson, Account Executive

(614) MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2020 614NOW.COM

→ The Myth of the Black Cat For those lucky enough to own a black cat, you already know how sweet and cuddly these often misunderstood creatures really are— now it’s time for everyone to know.

→ Domestic Violence Awareness Month October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and we’ve got experts who weigh in on how COVID has affected those at the most risk.

SS PL

61 4 V I D E O Did you know that (614) launched a new YouTube channel with some very shareable video content? It’s true. We’re expanding our ever-growing content to include video across our web and magazine stories. Keep an eye out for more on our 614 Columbus account and on social media. In the meantime, check out the newest videos on our channel:

SO CIAL CO M M EN TARY Columbus, you are a social-ing bunch, and we couldn’t love it anymore than we already do—unless YOU had a giveaway for US! Still, your quirky, witty, commentary, sometimes full of love...sometimes not so much, gives us much to talk about during the day. So, have @ it Central Ohio—we’re listening!

now playing...

Instagram summertime vs. pumpkin time debate: @SETH_HUMPHREY_: Temperature SCREAMS ... but I am SCREAMING (FULL THROTTLE)!

Instagram - photos from the rally outside the Shoe: @GRAPHICALLYLISA: Imagine having your parents behave like this

Wear a Mask See Nina West in all her glory encourage Central Ohioans to wear a mask and “don’t be ass.”

now playing...

Facebook - Avalon cited for violating COVID-19 health orders: DOUG MCGINN: Karen and the Busybodies were the band.

Instagram save the date (Restaurant Week) post: @AMANDA77KR: Sweet! Will be getting take away but happy to have an excuse not to cook meal number 84759.

Instagram save the date (Restaurant Week) post: @YERUBIALI: my favorite time of the year

Instagram Restaurant Week "Starts Today" post:

Living Canvas Dublin-area body painting artist Lynn Hetherington Becker tells (614) why her living art is so special—and why it's OK that it isn't permanent.

@JODYGANS: Wow, we can eat and help a charity! Does it get any better?!

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WELCOME TO THE INSIDER! Have an event you want to shout-out? Send an email to editor@614now.com.

02.

13.

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// Easton Town Center From 8-10 p.m., the organization ThriveIN will host a Watch Party: A Girls Night (Drive) In at Easton Town Center. The drive-in movie event will screen the culture classic Love & Basketball. In addition to the movie screening, the event will include Black-owned food trucks, music, and more.

// The Candle Lab and Wine on High Pour your own custom-scented 8oz candle with The Candle Lab Scent Stylists. You’ll design your label and mix your oils to create your unique custom scent, which you’ll then pour and stir. While the candles cool, you'll walk just a short way down the block to Wine on High to enjoy a choice of a specialty flight of 3 wines while you wait for your candles to be delivered. Your $30 ticket includes your custom 8oz candle and wine flight. Learn more at thecandlelab.com.

// North Market The North Market Night Market from 6 to 9 p.m. is one of the oldest and largest in Central Ohio! Quickie Dips LLC will be selling gourmet blended dry rubs, dips and no-bake dessert mixes. COVID precautions, including wearing face masks, will be observed.

WATCH PARTY

03.

(VIRTUAL) PRIDE PARADE // Stonewall Columbus Starting at 11:30 a.m., there will be a live broadcast of “Pride Parades of History.” In the evening, Lift Yourself Up goes live from the Stonewall building. Guests can join online or walk past the building to show your PRIDE. Through the month of October, there will be a live broadcast every Saturday at 11:30 a.m. Gather, safely, every Saturday during the month to show your PRIDE. Share your images and videos on social media with the tags #SWCPride365 and #PRIDE365.

LIGHTS & FLIGHTS

NIGHT MARKET

14.

10.14 - 10.18 + 10.21 - 10.25.

PUMPKINS AGLOW

// Franklin Park Conservatory View and buy hundreds of beautiful glass pumpkins and autumn-themed items handcrafted by local glass artists during the Pumpkins Aglow Special Engagement Oct. 14-18 and 21-25 from 5-9 p.m. at Franklin Park Conservatory.

31.

16-01 10-11.

COLUMBUS TACO FEST // StreetFoodFinder The Columbus Taco Fest will be GrabN-Go this year as attendees will be able to pre-order online or through the StreetFoodFinder app, drive up to the event, and pick-up at the corresponding truck at a pre-set time. Social distance and masks will be required during pickup. Learn more at columbustacofest.com.

Highball Halloween Photo by Ian Powell

09.25 - 09.27

HIGH BALL HALLOWEEN

BOO AT THE ZOO PRESENTED BY BUBLY // Columbus Zoo and Aquarium The “merry-not-scary” event will transform the Zoo into a Halloween wonderland during the weekends of Oct. 16-18 and 23-25; and Oct. 30-Nov. 1. Boo at the Zoo will begin at 5 p.m. on Fridays and 10 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The festivities will continue all weekend, closing at 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 8 p.m. on Sundays. Learn more at columbuszoo.org.

// Virtual Livestream From 8-10 p.m. tune into the HighBall Halloween 2020 Virtual Event to celebrate Columbus' best costumes and creativity. The streamed event will feature hosts Nina West of RuPaul’s Drag Race, alongside NBC4’s Monica Day and Matt Barnes; the White Castle Costume Couture Fashion Show featuring five of the most talented HighBall designers; one of Columbus’ most captivating bands, MojoFlo; and more! For full details, visit HighBallColumbus.org.

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OCTOBER 2020 (614) MAGAZINE

Kiss of Fire

Owners of Atlas Tavern open new fire-inspired restaurant at Polaris STO RY & P H OTOS BY JU L I A N FO G L I E TTI

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was while visiting the Chicago Food Show, that Patrick Duly first spotted the Josper Grill—a gorgeous piece of equipment for chef’s who love grilling, the Josper incorporates charcoal with new technology to create a piece that gives food an unbelievable taste and texture. Duly grabbed his business partner Marco Piazza and they returned to see the grill while enjoying a night of food and some lukewarm beer with the vendor. A deal was sealed and the duo began the task of building a restaurant around the powerful piece of equipment they had just purchased. “When we first learned how to use the grill, we realized how easy it would be to open up some type of tapas restaurant, or spanish restaurant because of the grill's origins, but we choose to use the grill to accent flavors from across all different food cultures we’ve grown to love,” said co-owner Marco Piazza. And that is the story of Nomad, Columbus, the newest restaurant to open in Central Ohio, that exists solely because of that famed grill. According to the owners, it brings fusion in a new way, pulling inspiration from across the world, often combining multiple culinary traditions but centering the food around openfire grilling. Utilizing the grill to render perfect millard reactions (the name for the reaction

that gives browned meats that incredible flavor), the menu at Nomad is able to provide an incredibly distinct touch to all the recipes it offers, as does the ambiance—a darker colour palette of black and grays. “When we started building out the space I wanted colors everywhere, but with the help of GRA+D Architects we were able to pare the space down to the colors you see,” said Duly. Large windows lighten the mood of the space, while red accents mirror the color of the grill and speak to the fire that runs the restaurant. Nomad features a generous selection of bourbons at their bar, as well as a variety of cocktail offerings such as the New York Sour—a bourbon sour layered with pinot noir to give it a deep crimson colour. Their house Sangria, a nod to the grill's origins, is served in a french press and topped with ginger beer to add a little fizz to the overall cocktail. Topping off the menu is the Italian Poutine,

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a riff off the classic Candian dish utilizing fried polenta as a substitute for french fries, and topping it with a house-made tomato sauce and ball of burrata. “The menu is all about collaboration, with me, Patrick, and John playing off one anothers ideas to build each recipe we offer,” said Piazza. The Teriyaki Tuna Steak is a seared yellowfin tuna that was placed over the heat of the grill giving it an underlying smokiness and placed over a noodle salad with a barrel aged teriyaki sauce drizzled on top. While the restaurant features a wonderful selection of vegetarian dishes, it’s the topic of meat where the grill is really able to shine. “Ohio has some of the best livestock I’ve seen in the state, so I knew, when starting the restaurant, that I wanted to feature some of the farmers we have access to,” said Duly. “The power of the grill is its ability to accentuate the existing flavors in a meat. When you put a piece of meat on the

The menu is all about collaboration... playing off one anothers ideas to build each recipe we offer.

meal, you really taste the meat you're grilling rather than the sauces and sides it’s paired with.” This is especially true with dishes like the Pork Chop which pulls on the high heat of the oven to deliver a heavy sear on the outside, but still locks in all of the juice and rendered fat from the meat. “It’s funny,” said Piazza, “growing up I never really enjoyed pork chops until I tried one from the grill and it's become one of my favorite dishes since.” Served with a side of cheesy grits with chopped chorizo, and topped with fire grilled peaches, the dish pulls together multiple elements of the grill’s ability to infuse smoky flavor into so many aspects of a dish. Nomad is exciting for Columbus and the Polaris location because it signals a shift in the restaurant world from many of the national chains to smaller group-focused restaurants. Additionally, what Duly and Piazza bring to the table is a unique method of cooking to the Columbus culinary scene. Paired with their open ended and collaborative approach to recipe building, it's sure to evolve and bring out new and incredible dishes as the years go by. •

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OCTOBER 2020 (614) MAGAZINE

One Bite Believer

Clayton Freeman is changing the conversation about the vegan lifestyle 26

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BY JAELA N I T UR N ER -W I L L I A M S P HOTOS BY JUL I A N FOG L I ET T I

t was late 2017 when former automobile service manager Clayton Freeman transitioned into veganism with his wife as a new lifestyle for the couple. A year later, during an anniversary trip, Freeman was nudged into turning his new way of eating into an independent food service that he felt would fill a void within the central Ohio vegan community. So, in December of 2018, Freeman jump-started Can’t Believe it’s Vegan, a mobile food service with enough plant-based options to make hard-core foodies into true believers. And now, he’s using his voice in the food community to drive change in the social conversation about veganism. Freeman is more than opening doors for combining flavorful dishes with a plant-based lifestyle. It’s also important to him to educate followers

I look at it as always looking forward... about climate change, animal agriculture and reducing the average carbon footprint going into the future. “I may not be able to convince many people to adopt my lifestyle completely but if I can influence them enough to question what they're putting in their bodies, and how those things relate to their health, climate change and pollution, then I've succeeded in my mission,” said Freeman, who cooked at Ponderosa Steakhouse and Arthur Treachers Fish & Chips as a teenager. “Baby steps—it's all baby steps in the beginning.” Not only is Freeman looking forward in terms of changing the conversation about a vegan lifestyle and perfecting his alreadyimpressive dishes, but as a north side resident, he also would like to have a permanent brick and mortar for Can’t Believe it’s Vegan. By setting up shop in a currently underserved location, he hopes to focus on breaking subconscious racial barriers in the vegan community. “One of my goals is to help enlighten the African-American community in central Ohio about our vegan roots in Africa—also to let people know about the many Black-owned vegan food businesses and organizations • 614NOW.COM

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here,” Freeman said. “Probably the largest myth about veganism is that it's an all-or-nothing lifestyle; [that] vegans are only concerned with animals or only doing it for health reasons. Veganism covers many facets of everyday life just like other lifestyle choices.” And by the way, it’s delicious. With savory dishes like belgian waffles with sweet potato hash browns topped with sriracha mayo or the stacked vegan BLT with a side of blue tortilla chips and roasted red pepper hummus, not only does Can’t Believe It’s Vegan provide delicious comfort food, but customers don't even have to leave their home to snag a hearty meal. Customers are able to text their order by 10 a.m. on the day of delivery, which is ideal for those who plan their meals in advance. Though Freeman has an in-depth business and operation background and an avid social media following and two years of successful operation under his belt, Can’t Believe It’s Vegan has still experienced brief setbacks as a result of COVID-19. “With no festivals, fairs or pop-ups to look forward to our revenue has crashed and burned like other food establishments. My only saving grace is my business model for delivery,” Freeman said. “I've doubled my efforts to get the word out that if you enjoy fantastic tasting food at a

I may not be able to convince many people to adopt my lifestyle completely but if I can influence them enough to question what they're putting in their bodies, and how those things relate to their health, climate change and pollution, then I've succeeded in my mission. reasonable price, then give me a chance to make you a ‘one bite believer’.” While the andemic still rages across the globe, Freeman has implemented creative methods for not only providing new meals, but interacting with customers—both regulars and first-timers. In August, Freeman held a Battle of the ‘Vurgers’ (that is, vegan burgers) a friendly sparring between West Coast and East Coast-based Beyond Burgers. Modelled after the Big Mac, the ‘West Coast’ was generously coated with vegan mayo, dairy-free provolone cheese, avocado aioli sauce and other veggie toppings, while the ‘East Coast’ was smothered in BBQ jackfruit, curry coleslaw, hothouse tomatoes and sriracha mayo. The competition was ultimately a tie as both vurgers reigned supreme, but select customers who posted their meal on social media won prizes from Freeman. “We were hoping to sell more but everyone that participated was extremely pleased with their selections,” Freeman said about the ‘battle.’ “Would I consider a vurger on my regular menu in the future? Depends on what my customers want and the logistics of delivering a quality product.” The traditional Can’t Believe It’s Vegan menu is so loved that some customers have jokingly threatened Freeman to not ever remove fan favorites such as the Angel Hair Vegan Chicken Pasta or the Buddha Bowl. So while some dishes may stick around, Freeman also isn’t hesitant to expand his menu—especially after forming great partnerships with Indoor Acres Farm and Wallflour Bakery to cater a gourmet vegan dinner experience. “Being delivery-only I want to make sure the quality of the meal is present when I deliver it. My wife says that I'm my biggest critic because I'm constantly looking for ways to make my meals better, but I look at it as always looking forward and never being satisfied with what you did yesterday,” he said. • 614NOW.COM

OCTOBER 2020 (614) MAGAZINE

STO RY BY ST E P HANIE WEST

Back to Basics

Grandview biscuit shop finds success with its unique offering of savory and sweet

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I NT ERVI EWS BY M ELI SSA B RAI T HWAI T E

PH OTOS BY JU LIAN FOGLIET T I

ebekah Hatzifotinos was in South Carolina with her husband enjoying Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit cuisine when he made a suggestion that ended up changing her life. “[He] said, ‘You should do this,’” recalled Hatzifotinos, the mother of a third and sixth grader. “He was right.” Hatzifotinos, who described herself as a recovering attorney looking for something to do, knew she loved to bake and had some restaurant experience after being a server throughout law school—and, after all, it seemed to be a niche that needed filled. “There wasn't anything like this in Columbus,” said Hatzifotinos, whose great-grandparents owned a European bakery in Cleveland. “I was taking cooking classes at the Seasoned Farmhouse and the chef said, ‘Do one thing and do it well,’ so, I was like, ‘Do I like biscuits?’” Turns out, the now owner of Biscuits, Kindness, Coffee at 1160 Goodale Blvd. in Grandview Heights, did. And while her experience with Callie’s biscuits was delightful, she knew she wanted something different— think Bacon Salted Chocolate Chip and Lemon + Lavender. “I tested several recipes—butter versus lard, versus shortening, versus European lard,” she said. “It took me several months to get the right biscuit. It wasn’t just the ratio to butter or buttermilk—which, I started with low-fat, then I liked the whole-fat buttermilk. I tried different types of butter—then it was the thickness and rolling and volume of buttermilk. I tested breakfast sandwiches at home—I would call people to come by and try them.” Whatever magic Hatzifotinos worked up in her kitchen, iit translated to the masses—she’s been selling out ever since. •

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I realized that Happy Chicken Farms/Merry MilkMaids started in Grandview— I think it was meant to be!”

“I was surprised by how much of a demand there was; I thought I’d get people trickling in. I expected to be throwing away biscuits at the end of the day,” said Hatzifotinos, whose husband’s attorney practice is housed right above the biscuit shop. “I sold out by 9 a.m. of everything the first four days.” Hatzifotinos admits that “success has been surprising,” and even overwhelming at times with the long hours that come with a successful business. She said she stays afloat thanks to her staff. “My staff members have great restaurant industry experience; one has some culinary school,” said Hatzifotinos. “They are great. I wouldn’t be able to do it without them.” In addition to Bacon Salted Chocolate Chip and Lemon + Lavender biscuits, Hatzifotinos also offers Cheddar Jalapeno, Cinnamon Sugar, Sharp White Cheddar + Ham, and Vanilla Shortcake—just to name a few. There are 11 signature flavors total, plus a carry-out menu that includes biscuits with sausage gravy, biscuit breakfast sliders, and biscuit quiche. Customers can pre-order biscuits online, whether minis or regular size, in any of the signature flavors. For those with gluten allergies, Hatzifotinos does offer a gluten-free biscuit, though she cautions it’s not on dedicated equipment. The storefront is open Tuesday through Saturday, 7-10 a.m., for carry-out only. “You can get smaller quantities [in the store]. If you want three minis, I sell in threes. I will have a few big ones in the case you can buy individually. I also have breakfast sandwiches, biscuits,” said Hatzifotinos. “Biscuits are made fresh every morning. We make the dough and freeze for 2-3 days and we go through them very fast.” So far, Hatzifotinos said starting a business during a pandemic hasn’t been an issue, and it allows her to partner with her local community to share the wealth with other businesses. “I serve Stauf's coffee and my sausage comes from the butcher and grocer—it’s a special blend they made for me,” she said. “I realized that Happy Chicken Farms/Merry MilkMaids started in Grandview—I think it was meant to be!” • Learn more about Biscuits, Kindness, Coffee at getbasicbiscuits.shopsettings.com 614NOW.COM

OCTOBER 2020 (614) MAGAZINE

Central Ohio

FARMERS MARKETS Where to get the last of your fruit and veggies before winter BY JAC K MC L AU G H L I N

’m just going to come out and say it: fall is better than summer. And now that the superior season has officially arrived, there’s a host of seasonal activities to enjoy. One of our favorites at (614) is perusing Columbus-area farmers markets. We love to see what kids growers bring in, from sweet treats to pumpkins and gourds of all shapes and sizes, we’re indulging in it. And we hope you will too. Here’s a guide to some farmer’s markets that are worth a stop.

Bexley Farmers’ Market

The Pearl Market

WHEN: Thursdays, 4-7 p.m.

WHEN: Tuesdays and Fridays, 10:30 a.m.- 2 p.m.

WHERE: The corner of E. Main St. and Dawson Ave.

WHERE: 19 N. Pearl St.

The Bexley Farmers market makes our list in large part because of its fun, unique location. Every Thursday evening, a section of Main running through a residential area on Bexley’s East Side is closed down for the market, so it offers a unique atmosphere that always feels a bit like a block party. The regular live music helps this as well. The Market, which began in 2011, now supports 25 vendors, so it’s not the biggest, but it’s worth a stop for a number of reasons, plus it has a unique relationship with its sellers and the city itself. “We have incredible support from the city, including Mayor Kessler, and partners such as Capital University,” said organizer Jaime Hadji. “We also have market vendors who choose to make BFM their only, or one of only a few markets they participate in.” This fall, the Bexley Farmers’ Market has expanded by a block to allow greater social distancing and a safer shopping experience.

For fans of the hustle and bustle of the Bexley Farmers’ Market, the Pearl Market offers an unmatched urban shopping experience. Located across the street from the Ohio Statehouse, this market aims to provide fresh and local produce to all in an accessible location. And they don’t miss the mark, as for several hours a week, the historic Pearl Alley becomes a hotbed for foot traffic in the heart of downtown. The market, which has served as a Columbus destination since 1989, is made of 35 vendors, and promises something for everyone. As local artisans joined in the early 2000s, many have brought with them a festival-like atmosphere full of fun and surprises. But it’s only open for a few hours a week—blink and you’ll miss it!

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New look. Same bank. Bigger promise.

Worthington Farmers’ Market WHEN: Saturdays 8 a.m.-Noon, with 8-9 a.m. reserved for highrisk customers

- David Trautman, Chairman and CEO

WHERE: At its temporary location, 200 W. Old Wilson Bridge Rd. For our next market, we leave downtown Columbus and head north for a slower and more scenic experience. While the Worthington Farmers’ Market doesn’t offer the downtown experience of the other two, it makes up for it by taking place in idyllic treelined Worthington, where marketgoers can wander in a less crowded open air environment. But don’t let its location away from downtown fool you. The Worthington Farmers’ Market (which began as a PhD project in sustainable agriculture) is actually the largest year-round farmers market in Central Ohio—with 75 regular vendors in the spring and summer, and 58 in the colder months— offering a wide variety of farmfresh products. “From produce varieties you remember enjoying from your grandparents garden to exotic spiced truffles to authentic Turkish pastries, you'll find it at the Worthington Farmers Market,” said manager Christine Hawks, who noted the market is now featuring an abundance of fall favorites, including apples and cider.

Bringing together our 12 banks under a single brand name means you get more access — with 100+ offices and ATMs in our network.

OCTOBER 2020 (614) MAGAZINE

the

EARLY BIRD gets the

BOOZE BY JAC K M C L AU G H L I N P H OTOS BY JU L I A N FO G L I E TT I

Breakfast happy hour comes to town at The Woodbury

ou can love it or you can hate it, but you definitely can’t avoid it, because boozy brunches are here to stay. Once maligned as an indulgence for millennials or the affluent, the trend is catching on with more and more people, and we at (614) can’t get enough of it. And now the Woodbury, one of the city’s newest restaurants that opened in December of last year, is smartly embracing the trend. The establishment officially unveiled a new breakfast happy hour that runs between 7-9 a.m., weekdays, in addition to their regular, weekday happy hour, running 3-6 p.m.•

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General Manager Austin Crawford noted that part of the idea behind the move was to embrace the popularity of brunch drinking. “That’s definitely part of it,” he said. “Not everyone wants to just eat.” But Crawford also noted that the happy hour has a larger purpose: to make sure everyone can enjoy what they want and when they want it, which is so important now in a time where normalcy and routine have been eviscerated by COVID-19. “We live in a society now where people's schedules aren’t the same Monday through Friday 9-5 anymore,” he said. “We see medical workers all the time from down the street at [OhioHealth Grant Medical Center]. They’re coming off their shifts at all hours of the day, and they want to have a place to go when they’re done. They want to leave and go have a beer and a burger, and why not some French toast too?”

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We live in a society now where people's schedules aren’t the same Monday through Friday 9-5 anymore.

Their generous breakfast happy hour offer allows diners to purchase draft beer, $1 off house spirits, $1 off select red and white wine, and $2 drip coffee from Columbus-based Upper Cup Coffee. And get this: the best part of the new happy hour, which was launched Sept.1, doesn’t even have anything to do with drinks—honestly, it’s the food. Accompanying cheap breakfast drinks is a sizable list of snack-sized food items broken into two menu categories: Good Morning and Good Afternoon, so patrons are able to eat both breakfast or lunch. Or both. And with drinks, too. Some of the standout menu items include breakfast poutine, a Buffalo-maple, fried chicken slider (sign us up!), pork belly tacos, and kimchi meatballs. All of the dishes are priced under $11, with most being in the $7$8 range, and are meant to be snack-sized accompaniments to your drinking session. They’re all hardy enough for you to turn them into a meal if you want as well. Each dish from the Woodbury’s fun and fresh happy hour menu also solidly represents the tenets of the restaurant’s cooking, where classic diner-style dishes are regularly offered, but with their own modern, flavor-packed spin. “Walking in, the restaurant is sleek and modern, clean; it feels like an upscale urban diner,” Crawford said, and the food follows this theme as well. “We have everything from burgers and patty melts to ravioli and chicken fried steak. But we have kind of asterisks on some of those, because we just put our own twists on them; a new take on classics.” For example, the aforementioned chickenfried steak is served over red quinoa alongside cheese and spinach hash browns. Likewise, you can dig into a chimichurri burger or the classic shrimp and grits, but served Woodbury style, over a corn tostada, and all lathered in buffalo sauce. But according to Crawford, the restaurant is also invested in the Columbus community and its own unique area. “The breakfast happy hour has made a trickle in the neighborhoods; there’s good feedback from social media,” he said. “But we also connect with people. Uptown definitely needed something like this.” •

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OCTOBER 2020 (614) MAGAZINE

It's that time again... We are finally unveiling all the best this city has to offer. This year, you, the readers and voters, highlighted all the popular spots we’ve all grown to love, familiar faces who have consistently achieved excellence, and of course, a few new places that have changed the way we go about our lives in Central Ohio. We’ve had our hands full tallying the totals, crossing our T’s, and dotting our I’s. But, without further ado, this is your definitive list of the champions of Columbus. This is ColumBEST.

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OCTOBER 2020 (614) MAGAZINE

Food & Restaurants

New Restaurant KITCHEN SOCIAL 48.2% OF THE VOTES

A restaurant serving Cinnbiscuits and Chicken ‘n’ Waffles for brunch was clearly going to win something—Best New Restaurant it is! Moving on to dinner, the wine and specialty cocktails go great with the variety of entree options from Teriyaki Ribeye to tacos and pizza.

8954 Lyra Dr. | ourkitchensocial.com

 Del Mar SoCal Kitchen 29.3%  RH Rooftop Restaurant 22.5%

Photo by Julian Foglietti

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Food & Restaurants

Brunch NORTHSTAR CAFE

Quick Lunch NORTH MARKET

Breakfast SUNNY STREET CAFE

37.7% OF THE VOTES

36.3% OF THE VOTES

35.7% OF THE VOTES

Back again as the champion of brunch, Northstar’s healthy, yet delicious, menu options are still a hit amongst eaters between the hours of breakfast and lunch. Whether you’re starting your day late with a Northstar Burger or diving into some heavenly Cloud Nine Pancakes in the morning, the only question is should you wash it down with a mimosa, or a bloody Mary?

Not only does the North Market offer a quick lunch, but it offers a variety of quick lunches. No matter you’re craving day-to-day, North Market has you covered with variety, from main entrees to appetizers and desserts.

The wildly delicious menu with multiple breakfast options makes Sunny Street Columbus’ number choice for breakfast. Ever had the Funky Monkey Pancakes? Youwill now.

Multiple locations | northstarcafe.com

Multiple locations | northmarket.com

 Lindey’s 31.4%  Katalina’s 30.9%

 Hot Chicken Takeover 33.8%  BIBIBOP 29.9%

 First Watch 33.2%  Katalina’s Cafe 31.1%

Northstar Cafe Also Won Best Place For a Salad

Price Is No Object Restaurant

 57.4% OF THE VOTES  Cap City Fine Diner 23.3%  Panera Bread 19.3%

Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurant  61.8% OF THE VOTES  Brassica 23.3%  Portia’s Cafe 14.9%

Neighborhood Restaurant (Campus/ Clintonville)  36.4% OF THE VOTES  The Crest—Clintonville 33.6%  Pat & Gracie’s 30.0%

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THE REFECTORY

38.0% OF THE VOTES

Eating at The Refectory is a visual treat that is only exceeded by flavor. Everything about the restaurant is a work of art. The entrees and plating are second to none and the restaurant itself was once a 19th century church. You might spend as much on your meal as you would an iPad, but there’s simply no better places to splurge.

Multiple locations | sunnystreetcafe.com

Food Truck RAY RAY’S HOG PIT

40.5% OF THE VOTES

Boasting the “real deal” of barbecue, Ray Ray’s Hog Pit has everything from ribs to pulled pork. Whether it’s a restaurant or a food truck, the brisket and brownies will be the best thing you’ve eaten all day.

Multiple locations | rayrayshogpit.com  Cousins Maine Lobster 32.4%  Mikey’s Late Night Slice 21.1%

1092 Bethel Rd. | refectory.com  Lindey’s 33.0%  Jeff Ruby 29.0%

A // The Refectory by Brian Kaiser

Fast Food CHICK-FIL-A

43.0% OF THE VOTES

Maybe it’s the “eat moar chicken” campaign that has influenced the city, or maybe it’s the high-quality chicken that has this place so popular. Either way, it's one of the best when it comes to fast food in this city.

Multiple locations | chick-fil-a.com  Raising Cane’s 35.6%  Swenson’s 21.4%

Diner CAP CITY FINE DINER

45.7% OF THE VOTES

Cap City Fine Diner isn’t like the diners you see in the movies. Here, you’ll find hand-crafted cocktails which include boozy milkshakes, or locally sourced spirits from Watershed. The food menu is all your traditional diner classics like meatloaf and fish and chips, plus the blue plate special keeps things interesting as new offerings hit the menu frequently.

1299 Olentangy River Rd | capcityfinediner.com  DK Diner 27.9%  Starliner Diner 26.4%

Cap City Fine Diner Also Won Best Comfort Food  44.6% OF THE VOTES  Hot Chicken Takeover 31.2%  Melt Bar & Grilled 24.2%

Steakhouse THE TOP STEAK HOUSE

40.3% OF THE VOTES

A trip to The Top Steakhouse in Bexley is somewhat like entering into a time machine. The supper-club themed restaurant pays homage to the 1950s with amenities like a house pianist, wood-paneled dining rooms with leather booths, and of course, a dimly lit ambience. The Top’s menu offers options like char broiled steaks to prime rib with au jus— the important thing is you just get a steak

.2891 E Main St. | thetopsteakhouse.com  Hyde Park 35.6%  Jeff Ruby 24.1%

The Top Steak House Also Won Neighborhood Restaurant (Bexley)  45.0% OF THE VOTES  Harvest Pizzeria 30.5%  Giuseppe’s Ritrovo 24.5% 614NOW.COM

OCTOBER 2020 (614) MAGAZINE

Food & Restaurants

Delicatessen KATZINGER’S

56.1% OF THE VOTES

Katzinger’s is a deli that offers delicious options for everyone. Their famously massive sandwiches vary from the topselling Reuben sandwich to the completely vegan Fred’s Jazzy Pita Treata. And what’s a trip to Katzinger’s without hand selecting the pickle to accompany your sandwich?

475 S Third St. | katzingers.com  Brown Bag Deli 27.2%  Jason’s Deli 16.7%

Gastropub 101 BEER KITCHEN 39.4% OF THE VOTES

Obviously, 101 Beer Kitchen serves great beer—that’s a given. But it’s dedication to delicious food from Chef Thad Kittrell and his culinary team are what makes this restaurant Columbus’ favorite Gastropub. So go ahead….grab a beer, and order some Mini Jarlsberg Grilled Cheeses to go with it.

Multiple locations | 101beerkitchen.com  High Bank Distillery 31.4%  The Crest 29.2%

Retail Bakery PISTACHIA VERA

34.2% OF THE VOTES

The bakery treats available from Pistacia Vera are second to none and every tasty morsel you get from this German Village gem is bound to please. From every flavor of macaroon to delicious coffee, if you want a bakery treat, you want Pistacia Vera.

541 S. 3rd St. | pistaciavera.com  Resch’s Bakery 33.7%  Der Dutchman 32.1%

B // Happy Greek by Brian Kaiser

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Greek Restaurant HAPPY GREEK

46.2% OF THE VOTES

Piled high and stuffed full of toppings, the Happy Greek gyro is a menu staple and has been winning awards for some time now. The restaurant’s Mediterranean cuisine is some of the best in town, and their tzatziki sauce is unmatched.

660 N High St | happygreek.com  Greek Express 27.9%  Mazah 25.9%

Happy Greek also won Gyro  38.5% OF THE VOTES  Greek Express 33.6%  Lavash Cafe 27.9%

Asian Restaurant TAI’S ASIAN BISTRO

42.5% OF THE VOTES

Tai’s Asian Bistro takes the number one spot in your heart, Columbus, thanks to its fresh ingredients and customer service. From beer to wine and sushi to Lo Mein, if you’re in the mood for Asian cuisine, you’re in good hands at Tai’s.

1285 W. Lane Ave. | taisbistroohio.com  Molly Woo’s 29.1%  PF Chang’s 28.4%

Mexican Restaurant EL VAQUERO

44.4% OF THE VOTES

El Vaquero has stayed a consistent hit amongst eaters looking to chow down on chips and queso while they make their way through pitchers of margaritas. The menu offers more than just tacos, and there’s no better sound than the crackling and sizzling of fresh fajitas arriving at your table.

Multiple locations | vaquerorestaurants.com  Condado Taco 27.8%  Los Guachos 27.8%

Mediterranean/ Middle Eastern Restaurant BRASSICA

35.5% OF THE VOTES

Brassica has found that perfect medium where the food not only tastes incredible, it looks incredible, too. The pops of color from pickled cabbage or beats are eye-grabbing, while the ingredients are always the highest of quality as the pitas are freshly baked and the falafel is almost always straight from the fryer.

Multiple locations | brassicas.com  Aladdin’s Eatery 34.8%  Lavash Cafe 29.7% 614NOW.COM

OCTOBER 2020 (614) MAGAZINE

Indian Restaurant AAB INDIA

70.9% OF THE VOTES

When dining at Aab, you’re in for a true authentic experience in North Indian cuisine. The restaurant focuses on bringing to light the traditions and menu offerings from rural Punjab, and the execution is unparalleled. We’re just happy we get to enjoy these treats right here in the heart of Ohio.

Multiple locations | aabindiarestaurants.com  Rooh 15.5%  Indian Oven 13.6%

Italian Restaurant MARCELLA’S

49.4% OF THE VOTES

Dinner at Marcella’s is always a treat as the menu features classic Italian favorites like antipasti and cured meats for appetizers as well as hand made pasta serving as the star of many dishes. Tell Olive Garden to find a new turf, Marcella’s is the new pasta boss in town, and they’ve even got better breadsticks.

PROUD TO BE YOUR #1

Multiple locations | marcellasrestaurant.com  Carfagna’s Kitchen 25.3%  Basi Italia 25.3%

Marcella’s also won Neighborhood Restaurant (Short North/ Italian Village/Victorian Village)

Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner! www.PIESandPINTS.net 48

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 34.9% OF THE VOTES  Forno Kitchen + Bar 34.7%  The Pearl 30.4%

Overall Restaurant LINDEY’S

48.9% OF THE VOTES

That’s three years running for Lindey’s to take the best overall restaurant titles. Not surprising given it’s chill vibe and delicious menu; not to mention the wide selection of drinks available to have with your fine quality meal in the always delightful German Village.

169 E Beck St | lindeys.com  The Refectory 25.7%  The Top Steakhouse 25.4%

Lindey’s also won Best Neighborhood Bar (German Village/ Old Town East/Merion Village)  38.4% OF THE VOTES  Schmidt’s Sausage Haus 35.0%  Thurman Cafe 26.6%

Date Night Restaurant  39.7% OF THE VOTES  Milestone 229 33.7%  The Melting Pot 26.6%

Best Wait Staff  40.6% OF THE VOTES  Rooster’s 32.2%  Cap City Fine Diner 27.2%

Dining Patio  45.7% OF THE VOTES  Milestone 229 30.5%  Barcelona 23.8%

Cajun J. GUMBO’S 39.4% OF THE VOTES

Looking for something to warm your soul? Look no further because J. Gumbo is here for you. Their cajun/creole menu offers flavorful dishes that are packed with spices, various meats, and plenty of vegetables. Dishes like the Drunken Chicken showcase how they are able to play with the spicy-ness of sauces while the Gumbo served atop white rice is what put them on the map.

Multiple locations | jgumbos.com  Gallo’s Kitchen & Bar 31.4%  Creole Kitchen 29.2%

Seafood MITCHELL’S OCEAN CLUB

38.8% OF THE VOTES

Dining at a Mitchell’s Ocean Club might typically be for celebration, but there’s a good reason you decide to celebrate here instead of other places: the seafood is unmatched. Every entree on the menu is carefully crafted and the sides to compliment your dishes only make the experience that much better.

4002 Easton Station | ocean-prime.com  Columbus Fish Market 34.0%  The Pearl 27.2%

C // Lindey's by Collins Laatsch

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Food & Restaurants

Sushi AKAI HANA

Donuts BUCKEYE DONUTS

Tacos CONDADO TACOS

45.4% OF THE VOTES

58.6% OF THE VOTES

47.9% OF THE VOTES

Akai Hana takes home the best of crown with sushi rolls ranging from California to Manhattan. Akai Hana has just about any sushi variety you can imagine and they are all executed with high quality and fresh ingredients.

It’s always jelly donut time at Buckeye Donuts—literally! The donut shop is open 24/7 and it’s been a staple for college students after a night at the bars as well as professors snagging a dozen to try and win over those very same college students. Perhaps most importantly, though? Buckeye Donuts is always a safe excuse for when you show up late to your meetings. Who can be mad at the person who brought donuts?!

Whether you’re in the Short North, at Polaris, or driving through Downtown, you’re never too far from a Condado any more. The build-your-own-taco restaurant continues to reach new levels of success and it’s all those options of proteins and toppings that ensures everyone can enjoy a meal here. Throw in the addictive queso and chips as an appetizer and it’s no wonder Condado takes home the prize for best tacos for another year.

Multiple locations | buckeyedonuts.net

Multiple locations | condadotacos.com

 Resch’s Bakery 21.9%  DK Diner 19.5%

 Local Cantina 26.3%  Los Guachos 25.8%

Ice Cream

1173 Old Henderson Rd | akaihanaohio.com  Fusian 31.8%  Mr. Sushi 22.8%

Desserts THE CHEESECAKE GIRL

CHERYL’S

JENI’S SPLENDID ICE CREAMS

40.6% OF THE VOTES

42.3% OF THE VOTES

43.4% OF THE VOTES

The Cheesecake Girl is just that—all about cheesecake! And a few other desserts all made from the best ingredients available to satisfy any sweet tooth. She can also make vegan and gluten-free desserts upon request.

Cheryl’s started with the basic cutout cookie that stemmed from the owner’s Midwestern roots. She added a basic buttercream made with only four ingredients—and here we are today. If you’re the lucky person who gets the birthday box of cookies, let us just say, we envy you.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is no longer a Columbus secret, but it’s still a Columbus staple. The ice creams here are carefully made with fresh ingredients and offer tons of different flavors like Brambleberry Crisp and Brown Butter Almond Brittle. There’s no question that when it comes to ice cream, Jeni does it best.

Multiple locations | cheryls.com

Multiple locations | jenis.com

 Insomnia 29.1%  Fox in the Snow 28.6%

 Graeter’s Ice Cream 41.7%  Whit’s Frozen Custard 14.9%

5354 Center St. | thecheesecakegirl.com  Pistachia Vera 40.2%  Chocolate Cafe 19.2%

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Dogs and Brats DIRTY FRANK’S

55.1% OF THE VOTES

When it comes to dogs in the city, there’s no better spot than Dirty Frank’s. The menu offers dogs, brats, Italian sausages as well as vegetarian dogs, vegan brats, and vegan Italian sausages making it have options for everyone. But this isn’t your typical hot dog place. Their dogs come fully loaded in a variety of options, plus you have the chance to create your very own creations on a bun.

248 S Fourth St | dirtyfrankscolumbus.com  Schmidt’s 36.8%  Skyline Chili 8.1%

Fries FIVE GUYS BURGER AND FRIES

50.1% OF THE VOTES

With fries in their name, you know they had to be good, right? Five Guys totally lives up to its name and their fries are what greasy dreams are made of. Sure it takes a couple people to take down a small order of fries, but is there really such a thing as too many fries? We think not, and Five Guys agrees.

Multiple locations | fiveguys.com  Brassica 28.9%  Rusty Bucket 21.0%

Wings ROOSTERS

66.1% OF THE VOTES

Back for another year of reigning supreme of the wings, Roosters takes the cake when it comes to fried chicken. The debate between traditional wings and boneless wings may rage on, but you truly can’t go wrong at Roosters. We’re just curious to see who is brave enough to take on some Nu-Killer wings.

Multiple locations | roosterswings.com  Hot Chicken Takeover 20.8%  Buffalo Wild Wings 13.1%

Rooster’s Also Won Curbside Pickup  46.5% OF THE VOTES  Condado Tacos 31.8%  Northstar Cafe 21.7%

D // The Cheesecake Girl by Julian Foglietti

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Food & Restaurants

Gourmet Burger THURMAN CAFE

Traditional Pizza MIKEY’S LATE NIGHT SLICE

63.8% OF THE VOTES

47.8% OF THE VOTES

At Thurman Cafe, there’s two things you can count on: delicious burgers, and sandwiches bigger than the size of your head. These mondo-burgers have stayed popular in the city and have even found their way into television screens across the nation with an appearance on Man vs. Food on Discovery Channel. Hey, if there’s one thing we agree on with Adam Richman, it’s Thurman knows how to make a tasty burger.

With the amount of Mikey’s Late Night Slices popping up around Columbus, it’s not a shock to see them secure another victory in the ColumBEST for best traditional pizza. The Late Night Slice craze is real! It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick bite to eat with the pizza by the slice option, or you and your friends can split the Dysfunctional Family option which is a full pizza, a few PBRs, and a few shots of liquor to keep things extra exciting.

183 Thurman Ave | thethurmancafe.com

Multiple locations | latenightslice.com

 Northstar Cafe 19.4%  The Rail 16.8%

 Tommy’s Pizza 27.7%  Adriatico’s New York Style Pizza 24.5%

Thurman Cafe Also Won Traditional Burger

Mikey’s Late Night Slice Also Won Place For Late Night Eats

 43.6% OF THE VOTES  Five Guys 32.5%  Swensons 23.9%

 62.7% OF THE VOTES  Waffle House 18.9%  Hounddog’s Three Degree Pizza 18.4%

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Gourmet Pizza HARVEST PIZZERIA

48.8% OF THE VOTES

A trip to Harvest isn’t like any other trip to a pizza shop. Here you’ll find traditional pizzas like margherita and pepperoni as well as more complex pizzas like the clam-topped Geary Street. No matter the pizza you order, you can safely bet that it will be made with fresh ingredients and will have you fighting with your friends or family over the last slice.

Multiple locations | harvestpizzeria.com  Dewey’s Pizza 26.8%  Yellow Brick Pizza 24.4%

Neighborhood Restaurant (Hilliard) STARLINER DINER

56.3% OF THE VOTES

When Cuban cuisine meets a diner set-up, you get the magic that is Starliner Diner. The restaurant has been serving Southwestern and American fare with everything from huevos rancheros to tamales. Starliner’s goal has been to provide a change in pace from chain restaurants when it comes to eating out, and with 24 years of dining under their belt, it seems they’ve truly struck gold in Hilliard.

4121 Main St. | starlinerdiner.com  Beer Barrel Pizza 22.0%  The Goat 21.7%

Neighborhood Restaurant (Upper Arlington, Grandview) THIRD & HOLLYWOOD

36.4% OF THE VOTES

There are several great options in the UA/Grandview area, but Third & Hollywood, with its delectable menu and relaxed ambiance, steals the heart of this suburb just west of downtown.

1433 W 3rd Ave | thirdandhollywood.com  Cap City Fine Diner 32.0%  Grandview Cafe 31.6%

Neighborhood Restaurant (Polaris/Westerville) CARFAGNA’S KITCHEN

36.8% OF THE VOTES

Carfagna’s Handmade Kitchen honors the grandparents who founded the eatery in 1937, using the best, freshest ingredients available. The authentic dishes are a win for anyone looking for delicious handmade pastas, pizzas, dishes, and sauces.

2025 Polaris Pkwy. | carfagnaskitchen.com  Asterisk Supper Club 32.8%  Kitchen Social 30.4%

E // Harvest Pizzeria by Brian Kaiser

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F // The Barn at Rocky Fork Creek by Brian Kaiser

Hidden Gem Restaurant KATALINA’S

37.2% OF THE VOTES

When you continually win the award for best hidden gem, you’re probably no longer a hidden gem, you’re just a gem. Nonetheless, Katalina’s tucked away location is just about the epitome of what a hidden gem spot would look like, and the menu offerings are almost mind boggling when you see how small the space is to cook in.

Multiple locations | katalinascafe.com  The Top Steak House 32.6%  Basi Italia 30.2%

Neighborhood Restaurant (Easton/Gahanna) COOPER’S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANTS

47.4% OF THE VOTES

The opulence of the tasting rooms and having almost any kind of wine you can imagine makes Cooper’s Hawk a must-go for those in the Easton area. The dress code adds a fine-dining element that bodes well for the delicious cuisine.

4230 The Strand | chwinery.com  Arepazo 27.5%  Mitchell’s Ocean Club 25.1%

Neighborhood Restaurant (Worthington) THE WHITNEY HOUSE

35.3% OF THE VOTES

Meant to feel like a Sunday dinner with the family, The Whitney House serves American comfort made from scratch with a rustic, but refined feel. Using fresh and local ingredients, The Whitney House is a must-go in Worthington.

666 N High St. | thewhitneyhouserestaurant.com  Natalie’s Coal Fired Pizza 34.2%  Old Bag of Nails 30.5%

Neighborhood Restaurant (New Albany) THE BARN AT ROCKY FORK CREEK

40.3% OF THE VOTES

Another neighborhood category means another chance for Cameron Mitchell Restaurants to snag another win. This time, The Barn at Rocky Fork Creek won the category with their rustic approach and modern touches on a steakhouse. The restaurant’s aesthetic is warm and inviting; similarly to the laundry list of more than 70 bourbons The Barn has to choose from. It seems we’ve found Ron Swanson’s idea of paradise, and it’s right here in Columbus.

1370 E. Johnstown Rd. | thebarncolumbus.com  Hudson 29 30.1%  The Goat 29.6%

Neighborhood Restaurant (Dublin/Powell) LOCAL ROOTS

37.8% OF THE VOTES

This farm-to-table restaurant sources its meat from Ohio farms and gets its produce from the family farm down the road. Because of the seasonality of the available vegetables, the menu changes regularly to offer the freshest possible ingredients to customers.

15 E. Olentangy St. | localrootspowell.com  Tucci’s 31.5%  Urban Meyer’s Pint House 30.7%

Booze & Bars

Best Overall Bar PINS MECHANICAL CO. 39.5% OF THE VOTES

Despite plenty of fierce competition, it comes as no surprise that PINS Mechanical Co has retained its spot at the pinnacle of the local bar scene—or should we say, PINS-acle? Anyway, PINS combines the best patio in town with a stellar lineup of draft beer and cocktails—not to mention a full range of arcade-style diversions to entertain the kid in all of us.

Multiple locations | pinsbar.com

 Seventh Son 34.2%  Land Grant 26.4% PINS Mechanical Co. also won Best Bar/Arcade  49.6% OF THE VOTES  16 Bit 32.3% Old North Arcade 18.1%

Place for parties  57.5% OF THE VOTES  Topgolf 31.7%  Ten Pin Alley 10/8%

Photo by Megan Leigh Barnard

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Bloody Mary THE PEARL

BYRNE’S PUB

36.2% OF THE VOTES

37.7% OF THE VOTES

From fried PB&J to beet salads and oysters on the half shell—The Pearl is indeed a unique jewel in the Columbus restaurant crown. But it’s more than just food—the cocktails are worth every penny.

It’s hard not to love all Irish pubs because, Irish—and they know how to do it right. But so does Byrnes, which is why you voted it No. 1 Columbus! So fake your best Irish accent and head to Byrnes for beer, fun, and delicious food.

Multiple locations | thepearlcolumbus.com Booze & Bars

Irish Pub

 Hangover Easy 32.7%  Matt the Miller’s Tavern 31.2%

Best New Bar

1248 W. 3rd Ave. | byrnespub.com  Brazenhead 32.3%  Fado 29.9%

Wine Selection

LINCOLN SOCIAL

COOPER’S HAWK

40.1% OF THE VOTES

48.8% OF THE VOTES

Lincoln Social knows how to draw the crowds and you noticed, Columbus, voting it the best new bar in Central Ohio. So grab an Uber and a friend and go have fun!

Holding down the #1 spot for another year, Cooper’s Hawk in Easton remains your go-to for those hard-to-find reds and whites. The professionals at Cooper’s Hawk have got the right jesus juice to give you that brain-shrinking hangover that only wine can provide.

711 N. High St. | lincolnsocialrooftop.com  RH Rooftop Columbus 33.5%  Law Bird 26.5%

4230 The Strand | chwinery.com  The Wine Bistro 27.6%  The Refectory 23.6%

A // Lincoln Social by Brian Kaiser

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Happy Hour FORNO KITCHEN + BAR

37.2% OF THE VOTES

With 50% off some of the best drinks, appetizers, and pizzas in the Short North, the happy hour at Forno Kitchen + Bar was a lock in this category. Your work day may suck, but for two hours afterward, you can be sure something will go your way.

721 N High St. | fornoshortnorth.com  Marcella’s 34.8%  Condado Tacos 28.0%

Dive Bar CHAR BAR

34.3% OF THE VOTES

Char Bar is everything you’d ever want in a dive bar. Stepping in this place is like going back in time to the taverns of our forefathers where the sauce was poured strong, the beer was cheap, and the ambiance was decidedly working-class.

439 N High St.  Beck Tavern 33.4%  Bob’s Bar 32.3%

LGBTQ Bar UNION CAFE 71.3% OF THE VOTES

Union has done it again. This Short North mainstay continues to provide the community with one of the best bar experiences in the city, whether you’re on the lookout for a firstrate brunch or checking out the nightlife.

782 N High St. | Columbusnightlife.com  Axis 14.8%  Slammers 13.9%

Local Spirits WATERSHED

47.8% OF THE VOTES

Never satisfied to rest on past successes, Columbus’ favorite distillers are always pushing boundaries. Furthering their already stellar reputation, Watershed’s bar and Restaurant in Grandview sets the standard for service and creativity on the local dining scene. It’s more than just great hooch!

1145 Chesapeake Ave.| watersheddistillery.com  High Bank Distillery Co. 30.1%  Middle West Spirits/OYO 22.1% 614NOW.COM

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B // Brewdog Franklinton by Collins Laatsch

Local Brewery SEVENTH SON

43.0% OF THE VOTES

Along with their diverse lineup of top-notch brews and vibey, spacious environs, Seventh Son’s commitment to the community through events such as the quarterly art flea have helped it stand out in the increasingly crowded Columbus beer market.

1101 N 4th St. | seventhsonbrewing.com  Wolf’s Ridge 30.1%  Land Grant 26.9%

Seventh Son Also Won Best Neighborhood Bar (Downtown, Arena, Short North)  43.6% OF THE VOTES  Oddfellows 28.3%  Short North Tavern 28.1%

Rooftop Bar BREWDOG FRANKLINTON

38.9% OF THE VOTES

Need a great spot to see the city from the rooftop where you can enjoy the food, drink and the view? You voted, Columbus, and Brewdog in Franklinton is your roof of choice.

463 W. Town St. | brewdog.com/usa/bars/us/brewdog-franklinton  Lincoln Social 31.6%  VASO 29.4%

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Sports Bar ROOSTERS

42.1% OF THE VOTES

In Central Ohio, when you say “sports,” Roosters is the top place you’ll hear most Columbus locals say they’re headed. Thanks to delicious wings, great beer, and good service, Roosters is your top choice, Columbus, for the best sports bar.

Multiple locations | roosterswings.com  Urban Meyer’s Pint House 32.8%  R Bar 25.1%

Creative Cocktails HIGH BANK DISTILLERY

38.1% OF THE VOTES

The idea of High Bank Distillery started back in 2014—instead of craft beer, High Bank went for bourbon and here we are today. High Bank crafts some of the best, most creative cocktails in Columbus—so go get one today.

1051 Goodale Blvd. | highbankco.com  Watershed Kitchen & Bar 36.3%  The Light of Seven Matchsticks 25.6%

High Bank Also Won Best To-Go Cocktail 25.8% OF THE VOTES  Condado Tacos 45.9%  Antiques on High 28.3% 614NOW.COM

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Booze & Bars

Neighborhood Bar (U.A./Grandview) GRANDVIEW CAFE

Neighborhood Bar (Gahanna, Easton) GATSBY’S

36.6% OF THE VOTES

37.2% OF THE VOTES

How can one choose between all the great choices in Upper Arlington and Grandview? It’s tough, but the Grandview Cafe takes the win with its delicious cocktails, great food, and friendly atmosphere. If you’re in Grandview, you should definitely hit the Cafe.

Gatsby's has been wowing the locals in Gahanna and the Easton area for over 40 years. Its award-winning pizza and wings are second to none and its subs, burgers, and salads are equally delicious.

1455 W. 3rd Ave. | grandviewcafe.com  High Bank Distillery 32.6%  Byrnes Pub 30.8%

151 N Hamilton Rd | gatsbys1977.com  101 Beer Kitchen 35.5%  Old Bag of Nails 27.4% C // Grandview Cafe by Collins Laatsch D // 101 Beer Kitchen by Collins Laatsch

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Neighborhood Bar (Polaris, Westerville) 101 BEER KITCHEN 35.7% OF THE VOTES

Thad & Jess Kittrell opened the very first 101 Beer Kitchen in Dublin in 2012 and its grown exponentially ever since, capturing the hearts and bellies of the neighborhoods they set up shop. Not only is the food delicious, but the company is the best. And apparently, the Westerville location is a “Best of” place to be.

817 Polaris Pkwy. | 101beerkitchen.com  Uptown Deli & Brew 33.4%  Tequila Cowboy 30.9%

101 Beer Kitchen also won Best Beer Selection 33.6% OF THE VOTES  Pint House 33.3%  The Daily Growler 33.1%

Neighborhood Bar (Dublin/Powell) BOGEY INN

34.9% OF THE VOTES

The Bogey is a neighborhood classic with great bar food and a great choice of drinks. If you live in Dublin or Powell, The Bogey is a must for dinner, drinks, or happy hour.

6013 Glick Rd. | bogeyinn.com  VASO 33.7%  Prohibition 31.4%

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Neighborhood Bar (Bexley) THE TOP 37.8% OF THE VOTES

Booze & Bars

The Top was started as a supper club in the 1950s and has maintained the elements of that style through today—dim lighting, leather booths, and a shiny, copper bar. The food is delicious, of course, but the drinks are even better.

2891 E Main St. thetopsteakhouse.com  Harvest Pizzeria 34.3%  Rusty Bucket 27.9%

Neighborhood Bar (Hilliard) CROOKED CAN

37.2% OF THE VOTES

Crooked Can not only offers great beer but a great spot for Hilliard locals to gather. A mustvisit as a local or a guest!

5354 Center St crookedcanohio.com  The Goat 33.4%  Rooster’s 29.4%

Neighborhood Bar (New Albany) THE GOAT

51.6% OF THE VOTES

The goat offers a variety of things for its customers, which is why it’s the “Best” of the neighborhood bars in New Albany. From a delicious menu and crafted cocktails to live music performances and sand volleyball leagues—there’s always something new to discover.

7148 Town Market Ln., E. | lcgoat.com  Pastime Pub 26.2%  Rusty Bucket 22.2%

E // The Goat by Zane Osler

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Neighborhood Bar (Clintonville/Campus) OUT-R-INN

37.3% OF THE VOTES

You might call yourself a Buckeye, but if you never glugged a plastic mug full of beer from Out-R-Inn, did you really even go to OSU? A favorite of students and alumni alike thanks to discount beer nights and the delightfully dank atmosphere, Out-R-Inn remains a just-off-High Street rite of passage in an age where many old favorites have been laid to waste by construction projects.

20 Frambes Ave.  The Varsity Club 34.8%  Bob’s Bar 27.9%

Neighborhood Bar (German Village/ Old Town East/Merion Village) ANTIQUES ON HIGH

40.5% OF THE VOTES

Antiques on High is the sister brewery to Seventh Son Brewing and is located in the brewery district downtown. Its focus on sour and wild beers and hop-forward IPAs and pale ales make it a unique, and sought after, hometown bar for the German Village area.

714 S. High St. | antiquesonhigh.com  Thurman Cafe 30.5%  Planks 29.0%

Neighborhood Bar (Worthington) PIES AND PINTS

34.4% OF THE VOTES

You can’t beat the food at Pies and Pints—or the beers. But it’s more than that—take, for instance the grilled eggplant and roasted red pepper sandwich. No matter your delight, when you’re in Worthington, you should be at the “Best” neighborhood bar, as voted by Central Ohio.

7227 N. High St. | piesandpints.net  Old Bag of Nails 33.3%  Zaftig 32.3%

Bartender (Write-in) CHRIS DEHLAVI, M AT MIRANOVA AND JESSE HUBBARD, GREAT SOUTHERN WHISKEY BAR Cris Dehlavi of M at Miranova is at the top spot again—but this time, sharing the limelight with Jesse Hubbard from the Great Southern Whiskey Bar. From connecting with customers and giving them a great experience or serving up some of the tastiest cocktails in town, these two bartenders rule when it comes to service here in the capital city.

 Ken Evans, Bristol Republic  Annie Williams Pierce, Law Bird

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People & Places

Best Fitness Center/Gym ORANGETHEORY FITNESS 36.7% OF THE VOTES

There were a lot of great studios in this category, but one colorful discipline rose to the top. Orangetheory Fitness offers group personal training workouts designed to blend cardiovascular and strength training AKA Orangetheory gives you a pretty involved introduction to the treadmill. You know what they say: running is cheaper than therapy.

Multiple locations | orangetheoryfitness.com

 Planet Fitness 33.6%  YMCA 29.7%

Orangetheory Fitness also won Best Fitness Studio  43.7% OF THE VOTES  Yoga on High 30.4%  Cycle 614 25.9%

Photo by Shelby Lum

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Local Band MOJOFLO

Local Solo Musician JOHN SCHWAB

41.8% OF THE VOTES

36.4% OF THE VOTES

From their debut EP “Waiting” in 2009, Mojoflo has been rising to the top for the past decade, winning this category for the past several years and headlining at The Newport Music Hall. The neo-funk band was the brainchild of college roommates who never looked back.

For over 35 years, John Schwab hasn’t needed a day job—just his music. From playing solo gigs and entertaining at corporate events or weddings to fronting the McGuffey Lane band several shows a year, Schwab is all about entertaining the masses. And did we mention he also owns a recording studio and a record label? Go see him play; you’ll be glad you did.

mojoflomusic.com  CAAMP 35.4%  The Floorwalkers 22.8% A // Mojoflo by Kris Misevski B // The Reaganomics by Missy Tong

mcguffeylane.com  Molly Winters 35.8%  AJ Angelo 27.8%

People & Places

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Cover Band THE REAGANOMICS

53.9% OF THE VOTES

For over 20 years, The Reaganomics remind us why the 80s was a great time to be in high school—and their dedication to the decade of big hair and colorful everything is probably why they keep winning this category year after year. Thanks guys, for keeping us in touch with a world that actually seems less scary than now, and that really knew how to dance.

reaganomics.com  Shucking Bubba 24.2%  Hoo Doo Soul Band 21.9%

Local Radio Station CD102.5

53.5% OF THE VOTES

Always challenging their listeners with the new and unexpected, CD102.5 continues to remind us why independent radio is important. The station is a wonderful resource for all who listen—and those who should.

cd1025.com  97.9 WNCI 27.7%  92.3 WCOL 18.8% 614NOW.COM

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Local TV Personality YOLANDA HARRIS, 10TV

39.5% OF THE VOTES

Yolanda Harris has been a staple of the Columbus news community for years, keeping the capital city informed, entertained, and on top of the latest—plus, she’s a great gal. Did we mention she also rides motorcycles? That alone might make her the coolest TV personality ever.

10tv.com  Monica Day, NBC4 35.6%  Hattie Hawks, NBC4 24.9%

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Overall Columbus Celebrity DR. AMY ACTON

51.7% OF THE VOTES

Dr. Amy Acton was the staple of most all Ohio households at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Everyone looked forward to her calm demeanor on the television or web, giving the facts and leading the way to containing the virus. Next you’ll see her at the Columbus Foundation spreading kindness. Either way, Acton is a Capital City celebrity and you all think she’s the best!

columbusfoundation.org  Jack Hanna 25.5%  Nina West 22.8%

Employer: Over 500 Employees THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY

43.8% OF THE VOTES

Why is Columbus ranked as one of the world’s seven smartest cities? Much of the answer lies on the big, sprawling campus of OSU, home to nationally-ranked programs in engineering, law, education, medicine, business, and nursing. It’s great to be an OSU alum, but it’s also great to work there. Tuition discounts, the Faculty Club, and football tickets are just some of the perks of being a Buckeye at work.

osu.edu  Nationwide Children’s Hospital 37.7%  Nationwide 18.5%

Employer: Under 500 Employees HOT CHICKEN TAKEOVER

52.5% OF THE VOTES

Maybe you were expecting to see a more business-y business in this award section, but what Joe DeLoss is doing with his team at Hot Chicken Takeover is incredible. And it seems like Columbus agrees as HCT took more than half the votes here. The focus is fully on hospitality, and their work with putting people into jobs post-incarceration only proves that HCT’s method of running a business is putting people first.

Multiple locations | hotchickentakeover.com  BrewDog 34.8%  Moo Moo Car Wash12.7%

Neighborhood GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS

36.4% OF THE VOTES

Grandview Heights has long been a well-kept secret of a great place to live in Columbus. It’s proximity to downtown and Ohio State football, as well as its own stash of delicious restaurants and great bars, makes it a chill, cool neighborhood for young or old. You can’t go wrong living, working, or visiting this Central Ohio gem.

grandviewheights.gov  Clintonville 34.6%  German Village 29.0%

C // Yolanda Harris by Megan Leigh Barnard

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People & Places

Place to Get Married FRANKLIN PARK CONSERVATORY

Tattoo Parlor EVOLVED BODY ART

58.9% OF THE VOTES

63.0% OF THE VOTES

Looking for an excuse to get married? Look no further than The Palm House at the Franklin Park Conservatory. Exchange vows in a Victorianstyle greenhouse surrounded by tropical greenery. Or maybe dance your first dance on the rooftop Zen Terrace of the Grand Atrium. Whatever space you choose, it can’t can’t be topped for pure romance and breathtaking beauty.

Columbus, you’ve voted Evolved the best tattoo parlor in Columbus because it continues to set the standard for quality, professionalism, and artistry for all tattoo shops here in the Capital city.

1777 E Broad St. | fpconservatory.org  Jorgensen Farms 23.0%  Whetstone Park of Roses 18.1%

2520 Summit St. | evolvedbodyart.com  High Street Tattoo 21.0%  Stained Skin 16.0%

Drinking Patio BREWDOG

Franklin Park Conservatory also won Place to Have Your Reception  53.4% OF THE VOTES  Columbus Museum of Art 24.4%  Strongwater 22.2% D // Franklin Park Conservatory by Rachel Joy Barehl

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42.6% OF THE VOTES

Brewdog is the ultimate patio and dining experience in Columbus with its variety of locations and ambiance at each spot. The vibe and the drinks are always good and the food is delicious. So pick your spot, pick your drink, and enjoy the Brewdog patio!

Multiple locations | brewdog.com  Land Grant 30.0%  Seventh Son 27.4%

Local Charity MID-OHIO FOODBANK

45.6% OF THE VOTES

Mid-Ohio Foodbank continues to win best local charity year after year because of its noble mission: ending hunger in Mid-Ohio. According to statistics, Franklin County residents miss about 69 million meals each year. The Grove City-based charity provides enough food for about 140,000 adults and children so that they may work, play, and thrive without fear of starvation.

3960 Brookham Dr. | midohiofoodbank.org  Ronald McDonald House 28.7%  Capital Area Humane Society 25.7%

Comedy Venue THE FUNNY BONE

57.9% OF THE VOTES

If laughter is the best medicine, The Funny Bone is where you overdose. The best of local and national comedy acts for over 30 years, The Funny Bone is always the go-to place to get some perspective on life—yours or someone else’s.

145 Easton Town Center | columbus.funnybone.com  Shadowbox Live 33.9%  Woodland’s Tavern 8.2%

Art Gallery WEXNER CENTER

53.5% OF THE VOTES

Film, video, fine art and design, performance art and more. Pulling in fascinating art from all over the country is what the Wex does best. A trip through the gallery and a visit to the bookstore and cafe makes for a perfect rainy afternoon, any time you desire some cultural enlightenment, or when you want to impress your out-of-town visitors.

1871 N High St. | wexarts.org  Studios on High 24.7%  Pizzutti Collection 21.8%

Apartment Complex GRANDVIEW YARD

47.5% OF THE VOTES

The luxury living complex not only offers upscale units, but restaurants, grocery, and service retail to its residents. Grandview Yard: suburban ease, urban style.

800 Baldwin Dr. | grandviewyardapartments  Belmont House 31.5%  Lifestyle Communities 21.0% 614NOW.COM

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Family Attraction to Spoil Your Kids

People & Places

COLUMBUS ZOO AND AQUARIUM

Free Family Attraction METRO PARKS

59.3% OF THE VOTE

52.7% OF THE VOTES

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has every cute animal that ever existed and more. With seven geographic areas to explore, there’s always something exciting to see and something new to learn about animals and conservation. Plus, it’s got ice cream, dippin’ dots, and a super fun gift store.

When you realize your feet have only made contact with cement/ blacktop for the last several weeks, it’s time to hit up one of Columbus’ 19 Metro Parks. And with its new passport program, you can collect stamps from all the parks and trade them in for a free t-shirt to rep your awesome Metro Parks all over the city.

4850 W Powell Rd. | columbuszoo.org

Multiple locations | metroparks.net

 Zoombezi Bay 28.7%  LEGOLAND Discovery Center 12%

 Franklin Park Conservatory (First Sundays) 28.6%  Columbus Museum of Art (Sundays) 18.7%

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium also won Place to Take Out-of-Towners

Hotel

 38.1% OF THE VOTES  North Market 31.9%  Short North 30.0%

LE MÉRIDIEN COLUMBUS, THE JOSEPH 41.2% OF THE VOTES

It could, perhaps, be the swankiest joint in town—and if you’ve never been, this is the ideal time to staycation at Le Méridien with its full spa suite, curated art, and amazing food and drink. Weddings, conventions, weekend stays, Le Méridien does it all.

620 N High St | lemeridiencolumbus.com  LaVeque 39.4%  Hilton Downtown 19.4%

Bed and Breakfast GERMAN VILLAGE GUEST HOUSE

43.6% OF THE VOTES

Though temporarily closed, anyone who lives in Central Ohio knows that the German Village Guest House is the best. It’s both comfortable and modern, and a jewel of the German Village neighborhood. It’s near the Brown Bag Deli, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, and Schiller Park— perfect for an evening's walk in this truly historic neighborhood.

748 Jaeger St. | gvguesthouse.com  Victorian Village Guest House 31.0%  Harrison House Bed & Breakfast 25.4%

Kid’s Birthday Party MAGIC MOUNTAIN

43.9% OF THE VOTES

It just makes sense that this would be an ideal place for a kid’s birthday party—come one, it’s got MAGIC in the title! With its multiple games, bright landscape, kid’s food, and fun birthday packages, Magic Mountain is a win for most any birthday party.

Multiple locations | magicmountainfuncenter.com  The Chiller 33.1%  Lazer Kraze 24.0%

E // Columbus Zoo and Aquarium by Collins Laatsch

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Movie Theater AMC EASTON 37.1% OF THE VOTES

Have you tried the dine-in experience at Easton AMC? The latest in flicks and crafted food and drinks served right to your oh-so comfortable chair. Movie enthusiasts, popcorn enthusiasts, lazy people—it’s a night that can’t be beat. Excellent sound and ample parking certainly helps make Easton AMC a hit with our readers as well.

275 Easton Town Center | amctheatres.com  Marcus Crosswoods 35.3%  Gateway Film Center 27.6%

Bowling Alley TEN PIN ALLEY

42.4% OF THE VOTES

Another strike for Ten Pin Alley. And why not? It’s a bowling alley with a little bit of everything: bocce, laser tag, and a 40-game arcade. Unlike playing the guitar and pairs figure skating, Ten Pin Alley is a whole evening of things you don’t have to really practice, but can still have a great time doing without costing an arm and a leg.

5499 Ten Pin Alley | tenpinalley.com  Star Lanes 31.1%  Columbus Square Bowling Palace 26.5%

Park HIGHBANKS METRO PARK

41.6% OF THE VOTES

The Metro Parks are one of Columbus’ finest attractions—and Highbanks is a gem within a gem. With its walkability, beautiful scenery, and ease of parking and location in Lewis Center, it’s a hit for the capital city.

9466 Columbus Pike | metroparks.net  Columbus Park of Roses 34.3%  Scioto Mile Promenade 24.1%

Thank You

for voting us

#1!

Doggie Daycare (Write-In) ALL PAWS RETREAT

When you must leave your fur baby in someone’s care while away, you want to know he or she is being cared for and loved—All Paws Retreat has won your (and your fur baby’s) heart, Columbus. With its clean facilities and love of all animals, All Paws is the “best” in your eyes, Central Ohio.

PetPeople now has 12 Central Ohio locations.

154 S. Yale Ave. | allpawsretreat.com  Dogtopia  PUPTOWN Lounge AND Camp BowWow

Dog Grooming (Write-in)

Bexley Clintonville Dublin Gahanna

DOGGIE DAY SPA, GRANDVIEW

Is your dog ready for her close-up? Boy or girl, any kind of dog, the Doggie Day Spa is your number one for getting Fido a haircut, nail trimming, and bath, Columbus. So head to Grandview Heights, by appointment, and give your dog a day at the spa.

1627 W. 1st Ave. | doggiedayspacolumbus.com

Grandview Heights

Powell

Lewis Center

Upper Arlington

New Albany

Westerville

Pickerington

Worthington

SAME DAY DELIVERY, CURBSIDE PICKUP AND AUTO-DELIVERY.

 All Paws Retreat  All About the Dog 614NOW.COM

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Shopping & Services

Best Local Record Store MAGNOLIA THUNDERPUSSY 50.9% OF THE VOTES

What do print magazines and vinyl records have in common? Everyone says they’re both dying, but we’re still here! Conveniently located along High Street right next to one of Columbus’ most notorious venues, Skully’s Music Diner, Magnolia Thunderpussy meets the needs of OG rockers while also catering to “kids these days” who have just their pinky toe dipped into the vinyl waters. Keep rocking, Magnolia Thunderpussy, and don’t ever, ever change your name.

1155 N High St. | thunderpussy.com

 Used Kids Records 28.9%  Spoonful Records 20.3%

more shopping winners → Photo by Brian Kaiser

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A // The Book Loft by Megan Leigh Barnard

Shopping & Services

Bookstore

Pet Store

THE BOOK LOFT

PETPEOPLE

62.9% OF THE VOTES

37.5% OF THE VOTES

Tucked away in German Village is The Book Loft where literally every nook and cranny of the store is lined with books. No matter the genre you’re looking for, they’ll have a section dedicated to it. And if you are active on Twitter, their social media page is worthy of a whole new best of category on its own.

When it comes to spoiling our pets, it seems there’s no price too high. And when it comes to finding anything from good boy treats to new squeaker toys, PetPeople is the place to go. The staff is friendly to our four-legged pals, and they know exactly what your pet needs.

631 Third St. | bookloft.com  Half Price Books 23.5%  Barnes & Noble 13.7%

Sporting Goods

Multiple locations | petpeoplestores.com  Mutts and Co. 31.6%  PetSmart 30.9%

Hardware Store

DICK'S SPORTING GOODS

ROUSH HARDWARE

81.9% OF THE VOTES

40.0% OF THE VOTES

It doesn't matter what your recreational pleasure is: golf, running, archery, or paintball—you’re likely to find what you need to get it done at one of many Dick’s Sporting Goods stores around the city. With military discounts and excellent customer service, Dick’s has become a favorite among our readers for good reason.

Roush Hardware is known for its impeccable customer service—and wide variety of services and products. The full-service hardware store also has a rental center. The sales associates don’t just try to sell you— they’re there to help you.

Multiple Locations | dickssportinggoods.com  REI 65.4%  Cabela's 27.5%

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Multiple locations | roushhardware.doitbest.com  Zettler Hardware 32.0%  Schreiner Ace Hardware 28.0%

Thrift Store GOODWILL 36.2% OF THE VOTES

Not only does thrifting save you money, it also saves mass amounts of CO2 emissions, energy, water, and waste. What’s more, Goodwill—earning another win in the thrift store category this year—uses 87% of its revenue to employ programs that help youth, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities find jobs and train for them. So, go get your thrift on, Columbus!

Multiple locations | goodwill.org  Rag-O-Rama 34.8%  Ohio Thrift 29.0%

Local Clothing Store HOMAGE 73.2% OF THE VOTES

The pronunciation of Homage is a Columbus conundrum—truthfully, it doesn’t matter if you use the “H” or not, one thing is certain, Central Ohio loves its soft, prideful, apparel. Homage has been the mainstay of this category because of the brand’s cute, clever, and sometimes kitschy t-shirts and sweatshirts. Whether you want to represent the Buckeyes, Tony’s Pizza, or simply Columbus, Homage has your back...and your front.

Multiple locations | homage.com  Vernacular 14.7%  Fabtique 12.1%

Place for Children’s Clothing CUB SHRUB 42.4% OF THE VOTE

The brainchild of the same owners who opened Tigertree, Cub Shrub is the pintsize, adorable version for kids. You can get contemporary clothing, toys, books, or gifts for kids newborn up to 6-years-old.

Grandview | cubshrub.com  Von Maur 35.8%  Nicole’s for Children 21.8%

Barbershop BLUE STAR 37.2% OF THE VOTES

This contemporary barbershop for the “modern man,” is a spin on the classic, founded in 2010 in Central Ohio. The classic barber chairs and the best tools make this a popular spot for men to manscape any day of the week.

Multiple locations | bluestarbarbershop.com  The Mug & Brush Barbershop 35.1%  Holy Moses 27.7% 614NOW.COM

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Plant & Garden Shop/Nursery OAKLAND NURSERY 55.5% OF THE VOTES

Gardening can act as a segue between a house and a home; the difference between living and thriving; the exact therapy you need. Oakland Nursery provides beginner and experienced green thumbs alike the tools to transform their space into a haven of growth. Be it a tiny succulent or a labyrinth of rose bushes, every gardener starts with one plant. Begin your journey with Oakland.

Multiple locations | oaklandnursery.com  Strader's Garden Centers 32.9%  Strader's Garden Centers 32.9%

Florist FLOWERAMA 55.5% OF THE VOTES

Shopping & Services

Whether you’re celebrating, asking for forgiveness, or sending well wishes, Flowerama is Columbus’ most-trusted shop to get the job done. Not only does Flowerama deliver flowers, the four-location-strong brand delivers excellent customer service, selection, price, and product time and time again.

Multiple locations | floweramacolumbus.com  5th Ave. Floral Co. 25.4%  Connell Maple Lee Flowers & Gifts 19.1%

Jewelry Store DIAMOND CELLAR 41.3% OF THE VOTES

Columbus, you don’t need little blue boxes to be impressed. What you need are quality pieces at a reasonable price delivered in a professional manner. And that’s why Diamond Cellar is Columbus’ favorite jewelry store for yet another year. People of Columbus, frost yourselves!

Multiple locations | diamondcellar.com  Worthington Jewelers 33.8%  Tiffany & Co 24.9%

Place to get a Massage MASSAGE ENVY 36.8% OF THE VOTES

You know you’re in good hands at Massage Envy where each kink is worked out and you leave feeling like a new human. You’ve only got one body, so treat it right by choosing Massage Envy for your next spa day. Treat yo’self.

Multiple locations | massageenvy.com  Woodhouse Day Spa 35.3%  PENZONE Salon + Spa 27.8%

B // Oakland Nursery by Collins Laatsch

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Spa/Salon PENZONE 41.1% OF THE VOTES

Self care is more prominent now than ever and who better to trust with your beauty and well being than the Columbus salon named Salon of the Year at the North American Hairstyling Awards? PENZONE has been keeping Columbus looking and feeling its best for 50 years. Here’s to 50 more!

Multiple locations | penzonesalons.com  Kenneth's Hair Salon 30.6%  Woodhouse Day Spa 28.3%

Car Dealership GERMAIN 36.9% OF THE VOTES

In 1947, Steve Germain’s grandfather, Warren Germain left Dearborn, Michigan as Henry Ford’s personal accountant to open one of the first Mercury dealership in Bexley. Steve has continued to carry on his grandfather’s exemplary efforts to not only provide the people of Columbus, Michigan, and Florida with quality vehicles, but furnish his employees a place where professional development is accessible.

Multiple locations | germaincars.com  Mark Wahlberg Chevrolet 32.8%  Byers Auto Group 29.9%

Cab Company YELLOW CAB 55.5% OF THE VOTES

It looks like Yellow Cab’s upgraded fleet of Crown Vic taxis with propane fuel modification kits and fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly Priuses has charmed Central Ohioans once again. Yellow Cab’s exceptional customer service and dedication to improving its vehicles earns it another first place bid for Best Cab Company. As the bumper slogan says, keep Tappin’ that App, Columbus.

1989 Camaro Ave. | yellowcabofcolumbus.com  German Village Taxi 24.4 %  Dublin Taxi 20.1%

Bicycle Store ROLL 39.7% OF THE VOTES

Whatever kind of bike you can dream up, roll can build it; providing all the wheels, seats, and saddlebags you need.

1989 Camaro Ave. | yellowcabofcolumbus.com  Paradise Garage 33.1%  Trek Bicycles 27.2% 614NOW.COM

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Shopping & Services

Furniture Store

Wine Retail Store

ELM & IRON

WEILAND’S

37.8% OF THE VOTES

40.3% OF THE VOTES

Elm & Iron has ousted Value City Furniture from the top spot this year, Columbus. It was only a few percentage points but you’ve spoken—the contemporary feel and ease of shopping with Elm & Iron has won you over.

Weiland’s is a community staple with its charming, small-town feel but having some of the best options available for wine and other products in Central Ohio. Independently-owned, this special shop will give you the best options for just about any kind of wine you can imagine.

Multiple locations | elmandiron.com

3600 Indianola Ave. | weilandsmarket.com

 Value City Furniture 34.0%  Grandview Mercantile 28.2%

 Wine on High 32.3%  The Twisted Vine 27.4%

Craft Beer Store

Alternative Transportation

THE DAILY GROWLER

UBER

40.8% OF THE VOTES

46.4% OF THE VOTES

The Daily Growler loves craft beer—and you love them for it, Columbus. The family-owned business opened its first location in 2012 in Upper Arlington and they’ve been growing ever since thanks to their dedication to the best craft beer in the capital city. They promise “to serve only the best and freshest beer available,” and they got a big win from Central Ohio because of it.

“I’ll just get an Uber,” is a phrase Central Ohioans are very familiar, since you all voted it the number one means of alternative transportation in Columbus two years running. Plus, we’re proud of you, Columbus, for choosing Uber millions and millions of times over getting behind the wheel after a few too many. Keep it up.

Multiple locations | thedailygrowler.com  Weiland’s 33.3%  The Ohio Taproom 25.9

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Uber.com  COTA 28.1%  Lyft 25.5% C // Elm & Iron by Megan Leigh Barnard D // The Daily Growler by Brian Kaiser

Dry Cleaners SWAN CLEANERS 49.5% OF THE VOTES

People smarter and more innovative than us figured out how to wash clothes without getting them wet and it’s been a booming business ever since. Swan Cleaners has been pressing, laundering, and winning over the hearts of ColumBEST voters for years now, and they’ve done it again. When you’re good, you’re good, and Swan Cleaners proves it.

Multiple locations | swancleaners.com  Dublin Cleaners 33.1%  $1.99 Cleaners 17.4%

Hospital RIVERSIDE METHODIST HOSPITAL 37.1% OF THE VOTES

When it comes to hospitals in Columbus, there’s a lot to choose from. But when it comes to who did it best in 2020, Riverside Methodist Hospital stands at the top. The hospital has been serving patients since 1892, and the renovations and overhauls to the facility have completely reimagined what the hospital formerly looked like. The design is modern and sleek, while the practices inside are consistently ranked in the top 50 across the United States.

3535 Olentangy River Rd. | ohiohealth.com/riverside  Wexner Medical Center at The Ohio State University 34.3%  Nationwide Children’s Hospital 28.6%

Vet/Animal Hospital OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL 56.9% OF THE VOTES

Your fur babies agree again! They don’t want to be sick or injured, but if they are, OSU is the place to be. Once primarily an agricultural college, OSU now boasts one of the top veterinary programs in the country. Farm and large animals are treated here, as well as small and companion animals, and you’ll find specialities and subspecialties in many veterinary fields.

601 Vernon L Tharp St. | vet.osu.edu  MedVet 28.7%  Gahanna Animal Hospital 14.3%

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Shopping & Services

Large Grocery Store

Local Grocery Store

KROGER

NORTH MARKET

49.4% OF THE VOTES

41.3% OF THE VOTES

Ohio-based Kroger continues to run the grocery store game with its organic and local offerings, superb customer service, and new technology, like Instacart and Scan, Bag, Go, to help make the shopping experience easier and faster. Kroger, you the real MVP (most valuable produce).

Nothing like winning a ColumBEST award AND opening a new market in Dublin’s Bridge Park to reaffirm just how much Columbus loves you! The North Market, known around the city and state for its eclectic mix of prepared foods, beer/wine/spirits, gifts, confections, baked goods, and fresh produce, and more, for over 140 years. Only now you can enjoy it downtown and up north (Columbus, that is, not the state cannot be named.)

Multiple locations | kroger.com  Trader Joe's 26.1%  Giant Eagle 24.5%

Kroger Also Won Grocery Pickup/Delivery  57.7% OF THE VOTES  Giant Eagle Curbside Express 24.0%  Instacart 18.3%

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Multiple locations | northmarket.com  Weiland’s 34.4%  Carfagna's 24.3%

E // North Market by Brian Kaiser

Place to Bank HUNTINGTON BANK 42.4% OF THE VOTES

When it’s time to dig up your cash stash from the bank yard, what better place to store it than the bank Columbus believes to be the most responsible, professional, and reliable? Huntington makes banking a breeze.

Multiple locations | huntington.com  Chase 40.6%  PNC 16.9%

Food Delivery Service DOORDASH 52.1% OF THE VOTE

COVID has definitely upped the need and game for food delivery services across Columbus. As of right now, the ease and service of DoorDash has helped it shine above other services as the go-to place for to-go food across Central Ohio.

doordash.com  Uber Eats 27.6%  Grubhub 20.3%

Shopping Center EASTON TOWN CENTER 71.7% OF THE VOTES

The outdoor shopping plaza, Easton, has a little bit of everything when it comes to best of winners. Looking for dinner? Check out Condado, the best spot in Columbus for tacos. Trying to get a fashion-forward outfit? you’ll have plenty of options.

160 Easton Town Center | eastontowncenter.com  Polaris Fashion Place 18.9%  Tanger Outlets 9.4%

Place to Buy Produce WORTHINGTON FARMERS MARKET 35.9% OF THE VOTES

The well-known and very local Worthington Farmers Market ousted the former winner of this category, Kroger, by being a staple of the Central Ohio community and offering a crazy variety of fruits, vegetables, and several other booths and products throughout Columbus summers and fall. The cherished tradition is indeed the best place to buy produce in the capital city.

Worthington | worthingtonfarmersmarket.com  Whole Foods Market 33.6%  Kroger 30.5%

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BRAND O N ABBBOTT ↑

DU ST IN CL A RK ↑

ABBOTT & CLARK

Two friends take an Oscar-worthy journey with inspiring documentary

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BY MELISSA BR A I T HWA I T E P HOTOS BY JUL I A N FOG L I ET T I

ften when a person becomes disabled, it becomes suddenly clear that the world was not built for him. Clearly the world hadn’t met Dustin Clark. Clark, a local musician and graphic designer, is using his massive talent, clear artistic goals, endless fortitude, and a healthy dose of positivity, to make his creative dreams come true, disability be damned. And now his story is the subject of a short documentary from Bexley resident and filmmaker Brandon Abbott titled Dustin Clark: The Humanity in Who We Are, that is being screened at film festivals around the world. The film, which Abbott directed and produced, showcases Clark’s ingenuity and passion in the face of Becker Muscular Dystrophy, a rare form of muscular dystrophy that affects only 1 in 30,000 males. Clark was diagnosed at age 10. “There’s just something about how he creates music that makes me want to go out and work really hard to make this film something really special,” Abbott said. “It’s an encouragement to know Dustin because he is constantly learning to adapt to the world

I think I was a songwriter from a very early age. I just didn’t enjoy learning someone else’s songs; I wanted to make something of my own. around him. Every time I see him, I leave so inspired and energized creatively because of Dustin’s hopeful, creative spirit and the amazing stuff he is doing.” The pair met long ago when they were in the same church youth group, and both helped with music at the church. “I was approached by Mike Clark, Dustin’s father, to work on a minute-long video for social media,” said Abbott. “Mike is also a musician and had seen what Dustin was doing and how he was accomplishing it. We got together and they told me the story of Dustin’s process and how he addresses his art. I left the • 614NOW.COM

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conversation thinking we would film the one-minute piece, but I thought that if this turns out to be what it could be, then we could do a short film.” And Abbott was right—no way that big, powerful energy of Clark’s would fit into such a small package. “What inspires me about Dustin is his positivity and how he finds a way to achieve his artistic goals in the face of physical disability,” Abbott said. Abbott was able to capture on film the nuances of how Clark got to where he is. For example, Clark said he’s always been eager to make music on his terms since he was a boy—not just the boring stuff his piano instructor taught him. “I hated those early piano lessons,” Clark said. “I think I was a songwriter from a very early age. I just didn’t enjoy learning someone else’s songs; I wanted to make something of my own.” Today, armed with a guitar hanging from the ceiling and sophisticated computer software, Clark’s innovative spirit has proven that limitations breed creativity. Clark uses programmed bass and drums, but plays the guitar himself. He enlisted the help of his dad and an engineer friend to help him set up his studio so he could make his brand of progressive rock music. 88

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“We sketched out a bunch of different ideas,” said Clark. “It was trial and error, a lot of experimentation. In the end, we came up with a shockingly simple way to do it.” Although it took eight years to complete, his forthcoming album, Here, was inspired by Clark’s journey of learning to live in the moment, he says. “I spent a lot of time as a young person wishing I could have another life, or be someone else. But I have sort of learned to just love my life as it is. It’s about creativity and making it work,” said Clark. All of this story is now captured on film thanks to Abbott’s vision of seeing far more than just that original one-minute clip of his friend. Clark’s story is being shared with global audiences at film festivals and events including Disorder: The Rare Disease Film Festival; Biotech Week Boston; BRIDGES International Film Festival; and the Calgary International Film Festival, which is an Academy Award qualifying opportunity. “Whatever wins their juried prize will be in consideration to be screened with other films of Oscar caliber, and that is really an honor,” said Abbott. “This opportunity speaks to Dustin’s story and how he is able to use his God-given gifts to inspire others.” Abbott himself being one of them. • 614NOW.COM

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LIVING ART â&#x2020;&#x2018; P O RTRAI T O F BO DY PAI NTE R LYN N HETHER IN GTON B ECKER . OU TFIT A N D WIG BY JA MES DU F F.

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Local artist heals the spirit with body painting BY M EL I N DA G R EEN P HOTO BY J UL I A N FOG L I ET T I

t’s exciting to experience a great piece of art. It’s lifechanging to become one. For Dublin-area artist Lynn Hetherington Becker, the human body presents a special artistic opportunity that challenges creativity and technique, a way to connect the physical being with movement and color in an exceptional way. With body painting, as well as with other media, she has found a way to spread joy and connection, and to touch lives. Becker has been artistic as long as she can remember. As a teenager, she had visions of studying fashion design, but life—as it often does—had a different path in store. For years, she nourished her artistic spirit occasionally by creating art for friends, but it was after a divorce that she found a new commitment to her creativity. “I needed supplemental income, so I started face painting, and that really took off,” she recalled. From there, she began experimenting with body art and henna art and discovered a new passion. “I love painting on canvases—I love painting on all surfaces— but there’s something about body art that I really connect with. Painting on a flat canvas, you can create any subject you want. But when you’re painting on a living, breathing, moving ‘canvas,’ there’s so much more to where you place the paint, how you place the paint, what happens when the ‘canvas’ is moving. It’s a different type of paint, a different way of blending. Certain colors of paint look better on certain skin tones. I think it’s more challenging, and in some ways, I can be even more expressive. “And it’s brief, because they’re going to go and wash it off. There’s something about that that’s tragic, but also so special. You can get a photograph, but the art is gone.” In other parts of the country, body painting is common in art and advertising, but Becker notes that the popularity hasn’t reached Columbus yet. “I’m hoping it catches on here,” she said. “It’s a really creative way to showcase painting.” Her designs are freehand, her tools brushes and sponges. Her human canvases relish the unique, interactive experience of becoming a living work of art. “Body art is a different, more intimate, way of connecting with a client,” Becker continued. A lot of times, if you’re doing full body art on an adult, they’re naked. I don’t really ‘see’ body parts while I’m painting, but I’m cognizant of the fact that the client is vulnerable. The process can take six to eight hours. And for them, it’s an uplifting process, connecting with the art.” • 614NOW.COM

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PHOTO BY REN EE N EEDHA M

Scan here to see why living art is important to body painter Lynn Hetherington Becker 92

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↑ M AG G I E BY LYNN H E TH E RI NGTO N BECKER , O N E O F R ES C UE D O H I O 'S D O GS I S STI LL U P FOR A D O P T I O N . TH E FAM I LY TH AT AD O P TS H E R R ECEIVES T HE PAI NTI NG ALO NG WI TH H E R .

Becker is a full-time day-care provider and often uses body painting (from the waist up) as a special treat. Children become robots, superheroes, or enchanted creatures for a fleeting moment. “It’s a challenge, painting a tiny person who can hardly sit still, but it’s a fun, magical memory for the kids, and their parents can enjoy the pictures forever.” A friend sent her an article about a West Coast artist who created henna “crowns” for women experiencing hair loss during chemotherapy, and the idea resonated with Becker. She started offering them, free of charge, “as a way to give back, to give a moment of peace in that rough time.” She works symbols meaningful to the client into the design, and the result is an empowering and inspiring respite from the often devastating effects of cancer treatment. Her custom henna art (as well as body art) encompasses all parts of the body, including baby bumps. “Moms carrying their babies is such a mysterious, amazing process, and I love being part of that,” she said, noting that the artwork strengthens the bond between parents and unborn child. But her commitment to spread healing and joy extends beyond humans. She paints and sells custom portraits of dogs and has partnered with RESCUEDohio to help several long-term shelter residents: a bright, whimsical portrait on canvas attracts attention on social media and in marketing materials, and is presented as a gift to the family when the dog leaves for its forever home. Recently, Becker re-connected with her love of fashion design, collaborating with seamster James Duff to create a paisley-and-swirl painted, leather-masked, COVID-era plague doctor that is simultaneously modern and archaic, beautiful and menacing, capturing the dichotomies that define this year. Other collaborative efforts are in the works, but no matter how many different directions Becker’s future holds, she’ll definitely be turning heads and putting joy in hearts all over town.

Find Lynn Hetherington Becker on Instagram (l.hetheringtonstudio) and Facebook (L.HetheringtonStudioFaceandBodyArt) 614NOW.COM

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BEAUTY for ASHES

Cancer survivors transform a landscape of pain into something beautiful and unique

P H OTO BY AA R O N TAY LO R P H OTO GRAPHY H E NNA ART BY LY NN H E THERI NGTO N B E C KER

BY L I N DSEY ESC A JA

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hen a woman faces a mastectomy, usually as part of treatment for breast cancer, she is often faced with one of two choices—either learn to love her new, bare chest or surgically reconstruct the breast that was removed. As part of that same treatment schedule involving radiation and chemotherapy, a woman may also lose her hair, leaving her bald—often, her only choice is to wear a wig. Local tattoo artists are aiming to change that, giving survivors a third option—and a new outlook on life: turning their scars into art with colorful and intricate tattoos that transform their pain into something beautiful and powerful. It gives women the opportunity to put the pieces back together again giving them results that are stronger and more unique than ever. “Every woman I tattoo has her own unique story and I am lucky enough to have them tell it to me during the tattoo process,” said body art tattooist, Christina Johnson-Siegel, owner of Living Story Tattoo, who wants to help give back what cancer takes away from women by creating art in the place of scars and, for some, creating the most realistic, natural areolas and three-dimensional nipples as possible. Not only does she do tattoos over scars, but she also tattoos on eyebrows. “Once the process is complete, women tell me their tattoos have given them a chance to gain back their identity and get back what cancer has taken from them,” said Johnson-Siegel, who also has a nursing background. “I feel honored and humbled to be a part of each woman’s journey to regain and restore her femininity and confidence after enduring so much to their body.” On that note, Johnson-Siegel acknowledges that tattoos aren’t exactly pain-free either, even for women who have a nerve destroying mastectomy. And even though most women tolerate tattoos quite well, Johnson-Siegel always makes sure to have numbing cream available, if needed, to ensure each woman is comfortable throughout the process.

“

Cancer will make you question who you are, so do whatever it takes to claim a little bit of normalcy and remember— despite the chaos, despite the changes to your body, you are still the same amazing, unique person you always were and always have been.” Each tattoo takes roughly 30 minutes for each breast and requires two sessions done ten weeks apart to complete the process. Before undergoing the tattoo process, Johnson- Siegel highly recommends that all women ask as many questions as they need to upfront. “Ask your tattoo artist about the training they have received. Ask them to see photos of their work. And if you are uncomfortable with any of the answers that you receive, seek a second opinion as you would with an actual surgery,” she preaches. “Most importantly, do not let anyone tattoo your body who is not passionate about the work they do.”

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ERIN NEMAC PHOTOGRAPHED BY HER HUSBAND DINO NEMEC

“That way I can respect each survivor’s fragile skin and ensure I achieve realistic painterly results,” Johnson-Siegel said. “Whether it is a flower, a heart, a nipple or an actual realistic 3D nipple tattoo, I believe restorative tattooing has the ability to heal and every tattoo artist should feel honored to place that art on your body whether you are there post-treatment or in general.” For some survivors, like Melinda Green, it wasn’t so much about wanting to achieve realistic results that made her feel feminine postsurgery and treatment—it was more about feeling invincible. “I looked in the mirror and all I saw was a pale, puffy, no hair, no eyebrows, no eyelashes woman staring back at me and it was demoralizing,” said Green. Green also said when she looked in the mirror and scratched her head, handfuls of her hair would fall out. That’s when Green adapted the mantra, “it’s just hair” and “I can’t look pitiful” and quickly became a huge fan of brow mascara and make-up, in general, to help her feel like her old self again. “Although I had my wigs, my royal blue bob being my favorite, I felt more comfortable without them and I told myself that I looked like a bald badass with my drawn-on eyebrows,” Green laughed. Recently diagnosed badass, wife, and mother of two, Erin Nemec, didn’t realize that such a traumatic experience with cancer could change her life and those around her for the better. While some women usually opt for nipple tattoos or reconstruction postmastectomy, Nemec chose to illustrate her cancer journey in a different way. “After my diagnosis, I decided to get a bilateral mastectomy as long as the surgeons could preserve the chest tattoo, my husband, local tattoo artist, Dino Nemec, did for me as it represents him and our two children,” said Nemec.

Something beautiful coming from something so ugly made Nemec stronger and more confident than she had ever been before, and more grateful for every day. “I LOVE my scars. I love the person they made me become because every day I can now look in the mirror and remind myself that fear has NO place in my new life,” she said. Fear is a natural part of the cancer diagnosis—but so is family, friends, and the new way cancer survivors must find to connect with their loved ones. For Green, it was a humbling moment to see the love coming from those closest to her following her 2016 diagnosis. “I found out it had already metastasized to some of the lymph nodes nearby my breasts and I had to endure five months of chemotherapy, six weeks of radiation and have 11 lymph nodes removed,” she said. “I am a super independent person and partway through my journey I noticed so many people stepping up to help me.” Green realized that her friends and family felt as out-ofcontrol as she did when she became diagnosed. “Cancer and the thought of your friend or family member battling it is terrifying; which is why I think so many wanted to help, hoped to be needed, hoped to be able to bring even the tiniest part of positivity to a dreadful situation,” said Green. “Cancer will make you question who you are, so do whatever it takes to claim a little bit of normalcy and remember—despite the chaos, despite the changes to your body, you are still the same amazing, unique person you always were and always have been.” • 1 in every 8 women and 1 in every 1,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and a time to educate and fundraise. • MELINDA GREEN | PHOTO BY AARON TAYLOR

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BREAKING BURLESQUE Meet the dancer who bought the bar where she bares it all

BY N ICHOLAS YO UN G BLOOD PH OTOS BY JULI A N FOG L I ET T I

veryone has a wild side that they like to let out on occasion, but Cora Helton has made a career out of it. She might describe herself as a “boring married lady” who hikes and wears Chaco sandals and khakis, but at night she becomes Cora Mandragora, a boudoir model and burlesque dancer at Bossy Grrl’s Pinup Joint on North High Street. In the latest development of her decidedly un-boring life, Helton has become the newest owner of the bar where she first donned her seductive alter-ego, following the departure of previous co-owner Sheryl Graham, and now running it alongside remaining co-owner Mike Folker. “I saw a need here,” she said. “I thought it would be really beneficial for somebody who is more aware of the performing arts side of things to be involved in the ownership.” Bossy Grrl’s has been closed since COVID-19 began its Ohio onslaught in March,

but it finally reopened Sept. 25. This gave sexualization may seem odd, given the close Helton ample time to renovate and reimagine. association of burlesque with stripping and As a longtime dancer and director, she took even sex work, but it’s more of an update than the opportunity to remodel the venue with her a radical change. Bossy Grrl’s has always been performers in mind. more than a den of debauchery. Some of the changes are solely aesthetic, The joint was opened seven years ago by but they point to a shift in the intention of the the titular Bossy Grrl, a burlesque performer space. Walls that were a deep, sultry red are who has since moved on to the Las Vegas painted over in playful purple. Some of the scene, along with her girlfriend. The windows more pornographic are covered by curtains, artwork has been the stained glass Instead of dances meant solely but taken down, and one depiction of a woman in wall now displays to arouse, or the pure glitz and stockings, garter belt, and a mural painted by nothing else gives a fair glamor of what Helton calls idea of what patrons will a former dancer instead. The upstairs find inside. Still, it doesn’t “showgirl burlesque,” Bossy dressing room was tell the whole story. given a face lift. Grrl’s performances are artistic Helton said the These changes are expressions with intentions as performances at Bossy all part of a larger Grrl’s are unlike any effort to avoid widely varied as its performers. other burlesque joint in objectification and town. Instead of dances make the performers feel valued. meant solely to arouse, or the pure glitz “My thinking is that if you make a really and glamor of what Helton calls “showgirl good venue for performers, you get really good burlesque,” Bossy Grrl’s performances are performers,” Helton said. artistic expressions with intentions as widely The decision to move away from overt varied as its performers. • 614NOW.COM

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It’s really about somebody’s identity, and it's a really good way for somebody to express themselves in other avenues that they haven’t been able to before.

“You have the length of a song–any song you choose–to put some emotion into the audience,” Helton explained. “And it can be anything. It doesn’t have to be sexual or sensual or just about showing off your body.” Helton’s first routine three years ago served as a perfect example of the venue’s artistic angle. As part of an alien-themed routine, she stuck googly eyes on her butt to raucous laughter from the audience. She said it was powerful to embrace her sexy side in a way she hasn’t always been able to. Helton has been performing in central Ohio for over 15 years and was involved in high school theater before that, and she said it is easy for people outside of the Vogue standard of beauty to feel excluded in those circles. “When I was growing up, there was either fat or thin. And my peers let me know I was decidedly in the first category, and they let me know that a lot,” said Helton. It wasn’t until she got involved in performances of the Rocky Horror Pictures Show at Studio 35 Cinema & Drafthouse that she found a place willing to accept performers of all kinds. It was also at these performances that she was introduced to burlesque, something her cast mates were heavily involved in. At first, she was reluctant, but they enlightened her to the modern reality of the art. “I’m a bigger person, and I’m proud of that, and I like my body the way it is,” she said. “And you know what? When I’m on stage, the audience likes my body the way it is, too.”

Helton isn’t alone in using the performances as a source of empowerment. The members of Sex Kitten Purrlesque, the resident troupe at Bossy Grrl’s, often fall outside the narrow definition of beauty pushed by other establishments, which firmly cater to the straight male gaze. Some are men; others are transgender; still others, like Helton, are plus-sized. For all, it is an expression of the performer’s relationship to their body, themselves, and their art, allowing them to take ownership of who they are and who they want to be. “It’s really about somebody’s identity, and it's a really good way for somebody to express themselves in other avenues that they haven’t been able to before,” said Helton. This attitude of acceptance and expression extends beyond burlesque performances. Events at Bossy Grrl’s are eclectic, to say the least. On any given night, guests may walk in on a drag show, a comedy night, a poetry reading, or a bisexual dating group. Helton prides herself on creating a safe space where everyone is looked after and events like these can thrive. Helton said Bossy Grrl’s is a place for any kind of art, and she is determined to let the community make the most of it. •

Experience Bossy Grrl's Pin Up Joint at 2598 N High St. or follow on Instagram at @bossygrrlspinupjoint

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The Pumpkin King Deane Arnold takes his talent to Food Network and back again â&#x20AC;¢ BY MELINDA GREEN | P HOTOS P R OV I D ED 614NOW.COM

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is Facebook page is “Deane Arnold, Artist.” It’s an unassuming, allencompassing title that, admittedly, covers his expanse of artistry but doesn’t even hint at his current reputation: professional pumpkin carver, Guinness World Record holder for largest jack-o-lantern, and selfdescribed “world-class smart aleck.” Arnold is an animated, shoot-from-the-hip talker who deals out smiles and laughs almost every minute. He loves to talk about his craft and warns, at the start of an interview, “If you ask me an open-ended question, I will babble.” And his craft—what hasn’t he done? He’s known for illustration, painting, photography, T-shirt design, sculpture, commercial design, and even music, although he will dabble in almost anything that catches his interest. When asked what he’s into these days, besides pumpkins, he laughs, “Is there anything other than pumpkins?” For the last few years, he has focused almost exclusively on carving pumpkins and other vegetables. His dedication paid off, earning him an invite to “Halloween Wars” on the Food Network, as

I love the fact that it takes a long time; I love the fact that it rots; I love the fact that it’s seasonal. To me, that makes it all the more special. part of Team Ghoulicious. He admits originally struggling with the decision to participate in the competition show. “I’m pretty well known in the pumpkin world; we all pretty much like each other, so the idea of ‘going to war’ felt kind of ironic. I would go somewhere, and competitors would joke, ‘Deane’s here. We can go home now.’ And I’m not a competitive person.”

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The hectic environment was another challenge. Arnold’s approach is meticulous; the competition often borders on frantic. “I’m used to digging in and focusing. And in addition to sculpting, I had to help build the display, which Ray and I do, but it takes an entire day. They needed it all as quickly as possible.” His pair of road-tripping pumpkins, disturbing and subtly gleeful, in the Season 10 premiere impressed the judges and were enough to keep Team Ghoulicious in the competition. Arnold says the talents on display in “Halloween Wars,” are more from his journey with other artists, versus formal training. He grew up in the Hudson Valley and migrated around the country as an adult before settling in Reynoldsburg, where he can be seen on his front lawn, carving, on Beggar’s Night. “I don’t have a lot of formal training, but I resist calling myself ‘self-taught’—everyone learns from somewhere, whether it’s formal education, higher education, mentoring,” he said. “I learned from everybody that I’ve ever worked with, everybody that I’ve ever worked

for, but my last formal training was in high school. I had an art teacher who literally tore her hair out, she was so frustrated with me.” He met renowned pumpkin sculptor Ray Villafane through an exhibit at Franklin Park Conservatory, immediately struck up a friendship, and started working with Villafane Studios in 2015. Their shared “10-year-old’s” sense of humor leads Arnold to refer to themselves, tongue-in-cheek and publicly, as “The Moron Twins.” “We’ll work from 7 a.m. to 2:30 a.m., and then one of us tells a stupid joke, and we’ll fall out laughing, and scrap everything we’ve been doing all day and start over.” Arnold searches online for inspiration and keeps a mirror nearby to sometimes reference his own quirky expressions. “I have a general impression of what I want, and I start and just let the pumpkin go wherever it goes. “But I’ve found that the face itself is not enough. What really engages people is if there’s a story attached to it.” That face takes, on average, from five to twelve hours to complete. One of his most popular carvings is the pumpkin-headed figure, with a tense, constipated expression, straining in the outhouse. “Out of context, that face doesn’t make sense. It’s just some guy holding his breath.” Arnold teaches all levels of carving online, to veteran competitors of Food Network’s “Halloween Wars” and “Outrageous Pumpkins,” as well as beginners with their first sets of tools. His style of carving wry, expressive faces that rarely break into the center of the fruit, echoes his painting style. “In my painting, I moved from photorealism into a sort of heavy impressionism, with less of an emphasis on detail. That’s now carried over into pumpkins. “What I find is that everybody wants to dive into the details at the expense of the basics. Most sculptors go straight for lines, creases, fangs, wide, staring eyeballs. Everyone talks about details being the most important thing. In my mind, details are the least important thing.” He waves a white ghost face carving with a “Woooooo!” and continues, “I’ve been staying away from details and going for a smooth, nuanced look. It’s all forms and planes.” But lines and detail do emerge naturally as the pumpkin starts to dry out. And, as his creations wither, wrinkle, and ultimately collapse, Arnold doesn’t mourn their transience. “I love the fact that it takes a long time; I love the fact that it rots; I love the fact that it’s seasonal. To me, that makes it all the more special.” •

Find Deane Arnold on Instagram (@deanearnold) and Facebook (Deane Arnold, Artist) 614NOW.COM

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