The Columbus Bites & Booze IG page turns 1 today! By starting this page last year, I gave a home to my food photos (outside of just Yelp), met so many great people, found a creative outlet, and learned a thing or two about social media marketing along the way.
A few months ago I set the goal of hitting 3000 followers before the year mark and I'm proud to say we did it. Growth on Instagram can be an emotional rollercoaster. The algorithm seems to constantly change, and the speed of growth can vary significantly in any given time window, even when posting constantly.
For me, all of this is still a passion project, and I don't necessarily have lofty long-term ambitions currently. But it is really cool to make these "micro" goals for myself (as a "micro" influencer")...and get after it!
To celebrate 1 year on Instagram, here are my top 10 favorite dining experiences within our first year:
Canlis – was the celebration of our 8th wedding anniversary during our 8th summer in Seattle, two weeks before moving. This meal was the culmination of our amazing Seattle experience. We brought wine from one of our favorite urban wineries (Structure), had the most inventive and delicious food, flawless service, and even toured the wine cellar after dessert. By far the most sentimental dining experience for me, and tied the bow on our Seattle chapter.

The Treasury – favorite stop on the roadtrip from Seattle to Columbus. First time in Sioux Falls and I’m obsessed! Only spent a dinner here but fell in love with the city. First impressions: active, scenic and friendly. This aesthetic restaurant is in what used to be the Sioux Falls National Bank. We sat on the patio with Riley and enjoyed cocktails and shared plates. We always say we have to get back to Sioux Falls sometime.

Chapman’s – I will never forget my first visit to what is now our favorite neighborhood spot. I asked @eaterandchef out on a blind double date, and it turned into the best friendship with many great meals and drinks together to follow. It was also my first experience having a Thai dish since moving from Seattle and I was impressed by the flavors in the Khao Soi. Collin was our server and did an amazing job. We got to come in before the release of The NY Times restaurant list.

Amara at Paraiso – can confidently say this is the best lunch I’ve ever had. Waterfront patio dining during the Fall in Miami can’t be beat. Drinks, seafood, and dishes with allll the flavors and colors. The best octopus dish I’ve had. This lunch was the fuel for my birthday Gucci visit. Perfect meal and day.

Basi Italia – my childhood friend Rosalie's favorite Columbus restaurant and it even exceeded my high expectations. It took us 4 months too long to get here. Everything was lovely about this dinner which was filled with wine, cheese, bread and pasta. Highlights were the burrata and chicken parmesan.

The Blue Room at Acre – the final meal at our dear friends’ joint bachelor/bachelorette party. My friend Katrina (the bride) knows how to pick a menu. Gorgeous cocktails, oysters, ceviche, steak, and desserts (yes multiple). The energy was electric here.

Vaso – last year we had our first igloo experience in Spokane, WA for Zach’s birthday. We’ve had so many wonderful Washington memories full of good food, hiking and exploring. I wanted to re-create the igloo experience here. Vaso had big shoes to fill and delivered… service, drinks and tapas were excellent all around. It was an intimate birthday celebration with our friends Rosalie and Mark who surprised Zach there! Paella was the star of the show.

Cartagena, Colombia – it’s impossible to pick one place here. Favorite dining experience was Olivia and Dan’s reception, and favorite restaurant out was Mistura. But no matter where you go, you are guaranteed to find astounding ceviche and a party.

Bendi Wok n’ Bar – my favorite Asian in the city. And they know how to do spice. The value here feels too good to be true. One of my most frequented restaurants including a few take-outs as well. When out of town friends crave Asian food, Bendi is in the itinerary.

Mandrake Rooftop – believe the buzz. This rooftop restaurant and bar is one-of-a-kind, and unexpected for Columbus. It transports you to a different place. It excites you about this city’s growth. It makes you want to live your best life.


Cheers to an adventurous Year 1 of bites & booze. Year 2 will include my 30th birthday celebration, Amalfi, and Milan — so no shortage of exciting experiences to come!
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