The title felt fitting with the recent IG millennial nostalgia (inspired by the introduction of Notes). The year is winding down and I started reflecting on all of the great businesses that opened up this year.

2022 was my first full year of living in Columbus since… 2014? (woah) and it’s changed so much. I’ve loved moving back, seeing the growth first-hand, the small businesses thrive, and Columbus continually getting ranked one of the fastest growing cities in the nation. Very proud to be an Ohioan and a Buckeye.

Below are my top 8 favorite bars & restaurants that opened up this year! There is a variety of casual and upscale — drinks, cafes, restaurants, and a rooftop. Thoughts? Have you been to these?

Understory (Jan 2022 // Clintonville) - Beautiful cocktail bar right along the Olentangy trail. This bar reminds me of Seattle. Its interior and exterior exude lushness and adventure. They offer delicious cocktails (get the paloma) and fun snacks.

Mandrake Rooftop (June 2022 // Short North) - Never before Mandrake could I imagine spending my 30th birthday at a rooftop bar in Columbus getting bottle service and feeling like I was in Vegas / Miami. This has become a regular weekend spot for great food, drinks and clubby vibes.

Fyr (Oct 2022 // Short North) - I can’t say enough good things about this restaurant. How lucky are we that a world-renowned chef @sebaslarocca picked Columbus to open up his latest restaurant. This “elevated casual” spot is cozy, the food is worldly and creative, and the service and experience are pristine.

Joyas (Sep 2022 // Worthington) - Not one thing I tried from this Bengali-American cafe that wasn’t mindblowingly delicious. I really enjoyed reading @avishar story in the Ohio State alumni magazine. The last line in the article says “you make something and then you give it to somebody. It’s not for you; it’s for someone else.” You can taste this mindset in the food.

Emmett's Cafe (Jan 2022 // Clintonville) - I am neighbors with the original Emmett’s on S High so admittedly I don’t get out to the north one enough. The open air location is spacious, bright, and with an extended menu. The perfect spot for a friend catch up or to work for a couple hours.

Ginger Rabbit Jazz (April 2022 // Short North) - Was just saying upon moving here that Columbus needed more speakeasies! While this isn’t technically a speakeasy, it checks many of the boxes of why I enjoy one. Tucked away, transportive interior, amazing cocktails, and with the added bonus of live jazz.

Subourbon (June 2022 // Linworth) - Modern southern fare in the Linworth / Worthington area. Brought to us by the people who own @alqueria_columbus in Victorian Village so you know it’s good! Cast-iron cornbread and hot chicken sandwich are must-gets.

Worthington Tavern (June 2022 // Worthington) - I've been for a few dinners and also for brunch. Consistently delicious food and some of the best cocktails despite not being a cocktail bar! Two recos… whipped eggplant and their smash burger. You won’t regret it.

Thank you Columbus for welcoming me and my appetite with open arms. I’ve never felt more excited going to some of these soft opens! Cheers to continued success in 2023.

- Jenny