LGBTQ+-owned local businesses in Columbus

BRETT PRICE Managing Editor for Content price.1422@osu.edu

This story was originally published July 31, 2022, and updated for the Buckeye Bound Edition.

Columbus has proven itself to be a great city for members of the LGBTQ+ community to visit or call home. Because of this, many of the best spots Columbus has to offer are LGBTQ+owned.

Food and entertainment scenes:

Barcelona

Barcelona has been operating in the heart of German Village for over 25 years. Specializing in Spanish-inspired dishes with a menu that changes weekly, Barcelona also features an alluring outdoor patio in addition to its historic indoor space.

Pattycake Bakery

Pattycake Bakery offers some of Columbus’ best sweets using organic, vegan ingredients. This LGBTQ+owned bakery is located in Clintonville but is well worth the trip to experience some of the finest treats the city has to offer — from pumpkin whoopie pies to lovely lemon cupcakes.

Union Cafe

Union Cafe is a staple of the Short North and is one of Columbus’ most popular cafes. Offering modern American cuisine served at inexpensive prices along with a mind-bending martini menu, Union allows you to enjoy the liveliness of High Street in a welcoming setting.

Slammers

Slammers may be one of the last lesbian bars in the country, but it’s still going strong as an all-inclusive space after three decades. Originally built as a pizza restaurant and bar for women to feel comfortable with their partners, Slammers has since grown into an essential LGBTQ+-friendly spot in Columbus over the years.

Retailers:

Out of the Closet

With a mission of making every customer feel safe, seen and welcome, this High Street shop offers some of Columbus’ best thrift finds and a host of well-curated merchandise. Not only does Out of the Closet offer free HIV testing, but 96 cents of every dollar made goes into providing HIV services in Columbus as well as around the world.

Olliver Lifestyle

Despite being an online store, Olliver Lifestyle offers some of the best handpoured soy candles in Columbus at great prices. You can often find them at various flea markets around Columbus or by visiting their online store, where you just might catch free shipping.

MrSeams

Columbus-based retailer MrSeams produces an array of embroidered custom items from masks to bags to ties. With distinct design and custom request options, MrSeams is certainly a one-stop shop for accessories.

Queerencia

Queerencia is an online lifestyle brand that aims to empower members of the LGBTQ+ community to embrace who they are and show off their queer pride. With some of the best pride apparel in Columbus, Queerencia is making waves in the Columbus LGBTQ+ community.

Health and personal care services:

Goodfellow’s

Unlike your typical barbershop, Goodfellow’s on South High Street focuses on elevating each of its guest’s personal style and well-being. While maintaining an inviting, clean and social environment, this LGBTQ+-owned barbershop offers traditional and modern barber cuts for everyone.

Square One Salon and Spa

Square One Spa is a relaxing environment for spa and salon services located on Fourth Street. Whether it be a massage, facial or haircut, this LGBTQ+-owned spa has you covered. Committed to improving the Columbus community, Square One Spa even allows customers to submit a donation request. If and when the request is approved, the company will subsequently make a donation to a local charity.

Heartfelt Yoga Studio

Located just off High Street on East Fifth Avenue, Heartfelt’s mission is to pave the way for other fitness centers and yoga studios to better represent all people. The studio prioritizes creating a safe space where members can be their most authentic selves.