Seven Places to Eat in Midtown Columbus and What to Order! (Plus a Sweet Little Shop We Want You To See)

TheColumbusite
5 days ago
3 min read

Columbus, Georgia's Midtown district is a community all its own, where history and hospitality intersect over unforgettable meals and quaint shops. From time-honored lunch counters to creative kitchens and cozy coffeehouses, these local favorites tell the story of a city that loves to gather, eat, and celebrate.

Whether you’re a longtime Columbusite or visiting for the first time, consider this your invitation to taste the heart of Midtown—one delicious stop at a time. Their eclectic mix of long-time favorites and new creative kitchens is a perfect snapshot of Columbus’ evolving food scene—each stop a little taste of the city’s heart.

Jarfly
Creative comfort food with a casual-chic vibe. Their seasonal menu and lively patio make it a local favorite for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
We love the B.L.T.A. and the Smash Burger, but other popular picks are the Jar-Filet and the Birria Melt. For a lighter meal, try the Elote Salad or an order of their cauliflower wings!
The Speakeasy
A neighborhood institution for more than four decades. Known for hearty Italian dishes, hand-tossed pizzas, and a warm, family-style atmosphere.
Can't call yourself a Columbusite if you've never had a Camel Rider and an order of CCQ! Other popular favorites are their pizzas and salads. Lots of combinations of flavor and they're always willing to customize anything they can for you!
Country’s Barbecue
A Columbus classic serving hickory-smoked meats and signature Southern sides. From pulled pork to ribs, it’s pure BBQ tradition. There's a reason Country's has been a beloved local staple for so many years. Locals love their Pulled Pork and Chicken Fingers, but our founder is really partial to their Texas Brisket. All of the sides are incredible, and you should always get the banana pudding for dessert! Fair warning: The sweet tea is as sweet as it comes. A lot of people order their tea 1/2 and 1/2!
Deorio’s Pizza

Beloved for its New York-style pies and laid-back setting. Grab a slice or a whole pie and enjoy a true Midtown staple. All of the pizza is great, but you should definitely try their pastas. The lasagna is a popular pick, and their desserts are a must!
Dinglewood Pharmacy

Step back in time at this vintage soda fountain. Famous for its “Scrambled Dog,” it’s a must-try for anyone craving local flavor with a side of nostalgia.
There's nothing better than a Scrambled Dog, all the way, with a cherry Coke. Unless you finish your meal with one of their old-style milkshakes made with Blue Bell Ice Cream!
Parker’s Pantry

A made-from-scratch café and sandwich spot in Midtown. Try the Pantry Salad and the Havarti Party with kale-pesto ranch. Or, if you really want to plan ahead, order a ham & cheese quiche and freeze it for company or to take on vacation. YUM!
Midtown Coffee House
A cozy coffeehouse with sandwiches, soups, pastries, and specialty drinks. Our breakfast order is always and forever going to be The Guac Star. For lunch, our favorite thing to order is their Pimena Cheese Snack with a side of Cowboy Caviar. And for dessert? You literally can't go wrong with anything you choose.
BONUS: Columbus Bound Bookshop
Okay, bear with us, this is not a food stop, but it's absolutely something every Columbusite should visit. This new bookshop, owned and run by a proud Midtowner, has quickly become our most highly-recommended bookstore in town. As fellow small business owners, we appreciate the intentionality they put into their book selection, merchandise, and events. Please tell them we said hello and that you're a fellow Columbusite reader too!