25 Essential Columbus Institutions
From neighborhood classics to high-wire tasting rooms, these are the places shaping the modern dining identity of Columbus.
Harveys
Mississippi
Upscale-casual eatery with a long menu of Southern-accented fish, steaks, burgers & kids' choices.
New China Royal Restaurant
Mississippi
Informal strip-mall restaurant offering hearty plates of classic Chinese fare in a relaxed setting.
Zachary's
Mississippi
Lively restaurant providing burgers & other comfort food, plus craft beers, a patio & theme nights.
Hardee's
Columbus, Mississippi
Fast-food chain serving fried chicken, big burgers & made-from-scratch breakfast biscuits.
Hardee's
Columbus, Mississippi
Fast-food chain serving fried chicken, big burgers & made-from-scratch breakfast biscuits.
Sweet Peppers Deli
Columbus, Mississippi
This casual regional chain serves updated takes on classic deli fare with a Southern twist.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Columbus, Mississippi
Homey chain restaurant serving American comfort food, with an on-site general store.
The Mexican Kitchen
Columbus, Mississippi
Service options: Curbside pickup, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining. Accessibility.
CJ's Pizza of Columbus
Columbus, Mississippi
Service options: Outdoor seating, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Serves local specialty, Sports. Popular for: Lunch.
McAlister's Deli
Columbus, Mississippi
Easygoing counter-service chain known for its sandwiches, stuffed baked potatoes & sweet tea.
Hank's #1 BBQ
Columbus, Mississippi
Service options: Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Great tea selection, Serves local specialty. Popular for: Lunch, Dinner.
Sol y Luna Mexican Grill
Columbus, Mississippi
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, Wheelchair accessible seating.
Lost Pizza Co Columbus
Columbus, Mississippi
Laid-back eatery with quirky decor offering pizza, pasta & subs, plus wings & other appetizers.
Jackson Square Grill
Columbus, Mississippi
Lively, modern venue for American, Southern & Tex-Mex fare, plus a full bar & a patio.
Sonic Drive-In
Columbus, Mississippi
Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.
Proffitt's Porch
Columbus, Mississippi
Service options: Outdoor seating, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service, Great coffee, Great dessert, Great tea selection.
Waffle House
Columbus, Mississippi
Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.
Little Dooey
Columbus, Mississippi
Longtime restaurant offering slow-smoked BBQ staples & Cajun seafood in down-home digs.
Old Hickory Steak House
Columbus, Mississippi
Old-fashioned, informal chophouse focusing only on steak cooked on an open charcoal grill.
Mi Hacienda
Columbus, Mississippi
Unassuming choice doling out a variety of classic Mexican dishes in a casual setting.
Mo Jam's BBQ
Columbus, Mississippi
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, Wheelchair accessible seating.
Sonic Drive-In
Columbus, Mississippi
Fast-food burger & fries joint with an old-school feel, including retro drive-in service.
Arby's
Columbus, Mississippi
Fast-food chain, known for its roast beef, serving up hot & cold sandwiches, fries & shakes.
Pizza Hut
Columbus, Mississippi
Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.
Gratia Artisinal Eatery
Columbus, Mississippi
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, Wheelchair accessible seating.