614 December 2021

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BIG PICTURE Stay warm this winter in VASO's igloos, featured on their rooftop.

Overlook the Dublin Bridge Park area and enjoy great food and drinks with your view.

MORE ABOUT THE IGLOOS AND KEEPING COZY IN COLUMBUS GO TO PAGE 49.

PHOTO BY SARAH PFEIFER

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Contents

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C O V E R PA C K A G E THE GREAT INDOORS

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MAKERS SPACE: OHIO VALLEY BARN SALVAGE 22

THE DAILY BAR

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SECRET AGENT PIZZA

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NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

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HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE

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ON THE COVER:

Created by Willem Kern

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Opening Volley PUBLISHER Wayne T. Lewis

J AC K M C L AU G H L I N Editor-In-Chief

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Lindsay Press EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jack McLaughlin COPY EDITOR Allison Grimes

When I tell you this, Columbus, you’re probably going to think I’m crazy: I love the cold.

Winter and fall are my favorite seasons— no question—and I typically dread the summer with its imposing heat. I’m sure a part of it is the fact that my internal temperature probably runs a touch hotter than most, but that’s not the real reason I love the colder months.

There’s a weird kind of comfort that comes with the cold, one you simply can’t otherwise replicate. More specifically, it happens when it’s frigid outside, but you’re safe and warm inside. When you can hear the biting wind and see snowfall whipping across the roads, you’re so much aware of the comfort and coziness surrounding you, and so much more grateful for it, as well.

That’s why the cover package of our December 2021 issue is dedicated to what we’re calling The Great Indoors. Because while we love a good outdoor winter excursion just as much as the next person, sometimes we all just want to stay inside and keep cozy.

So we’ve found a handful of ways for you to appreciate the winter this month without actually having to be in it. From a list of some of our favorite indoor fireplaces to stories on woodworking classes, candle-making, and even a local restaurant that allows you to eat in upscale, climate-controlled igloos, consider this issue your go-to guide for navigating the great indoors this winter.

We’re also offering coverage of a fascinating Central Ohio business that restores and rebuilds centuries-old barns across the state and country, an esoteric SoHud night market, and a full slate of holiday and New Year’s events for you to toss on the calendar.

Our newest magazine section, Neighborhood Spotlight, features a deepdive into four different nearby cities (plus one Columbus neighborhood) to give you the inside scoop on where to go when you need to get out of downtown for a while And did we mention food? Because we’ve got food, too. Our December issue highlights the new, and wonderfully quirky, Italian Villagebased spot for drinks, The Daily Bar, as well as a shadowy new pizza ghost kitchen from the owner The Crest gastropub.

So hang up your coats and jackets, because you won’t need them here. Let’s stay warm and ring in the new year together, safe and sound.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Leonardo Carrizo, Jen Brown, Maddie Schroeder, James DeCamp, Allison Grimes, Aaron Massey, Sarah Pfeifer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jack McLaughlin, Melinda Green,

Jaelani Turner-Williams, Melissa Braithwaite, Jim Fischer Peter Hoffman, Laura Hennigan, Zeb Larson, David Williams, Mallory Arnold CREATIVE DESIGNERS Emma Quinn, Willem Kern, Bryce Patterson VIDEO PRODUCER / EDITOR Austin Black MARKETING MANAGER Justynne Pride MARKETING COORDINATOR Julia Attanasio ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Meggin Weimerskirch SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Nikki Harris Mindy Wilhite BRAND MANAGER, 614 LAGER Lizzy Saunders OFFICE MANAGER Janae Brown Questions about advertising?

Scan here!

Created by

(614) Magazine 458 E Main St., Columbus, OH 43215 Office: (614) 488-4400 | Fax: (614) 488-4402 Email submissions to: editor@614now.com www.614now.com 21

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� S TA F F P I C K S

Our staff picks It’s getting colder and colder outside, but we have a solution to avoid the winter weather: stay in. We asked our staff what their favorite indoor holiday traditions are.

ON the WEB Do you check your news and entertainment updates on 614now.com? You should.

Every day we’re posting Columbus’s top news, entertainment, and sports stories from throughout Central Ohio. Check out all the Columbus news online, including the new ones below at 614now.com and suscribe to our daily email!

Baking something pumpkin-flavored with a glass of red wine in hand!

— Emma Quinn, Creative Designer

Playing Cards Against Humanity with my family and watching my Dad get shocked by the inappropriate cards.

— Justynne Pride, Marketing Director

Foosball with my family, even though I’m terrible at it.

— Jack McLaughlin, Editor

→ Healing Garden Café offers full slate of herbal wellness teas A tea enthusiast since she was a child, Brenda Thomas found herself drawn to herbal medicine later in life, particularly to aid her son during asthmatic episodes. She not only blended her love of tea and study of herbal medicine into an exciting esoteric pop-up cafe... Read more about it by scanning the QR code.

Decorating the house and baking cookies while watching ‘The Family Stone!

— Janae Brown, Office Manager

Going to Club 20 with my cousin on Christmas Eve, and euchre with my family and several bottles of wine on Christmas.

— Lizzy Saunders, Brand Manager, (614) Beer

Feast of the Seven Fishes with family and friends!

— Mindy Wilhite, Senior Account Executive

→ New kitchen serving smash burger sliders opening next month Smash burgers? Check. Sliders? Count us in. The innovative new eatery Smash Brothers Sliders will be bringing its own version of the smash burger to Columbus.

Watching holiday movies, like ‘Christmas Vacation.’

— Willem Kern, Creative Designer

Also watching holiday movies, but ‘Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer’ is the best one of all time.

— Bryce Patterson, Creative Designer

We play games every year! Balloon pop, Harry Potter Trivia, Christmas Story trivia, Memory, scavenger hunts. There's a small cash prize for the games so it turns into an all-out brawl.

— Nikki Harris, Senior Accountant Executive

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→ First phase of Quarry Trails Metro Park will open this month After years of waiting, the first phase of Quarry Trails Metro Park has an opening date behind it... the park has been hotly anticipated, as it will offer a variety of outdoor activities like kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking and more.

#AsSeenInColumbus

@buckeyecandycompany

@saynplaycolumbus

@kimfromcolumbus

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@phamilyeatscbus

61 4 VI D E O Did you know that (614) launched a YouTube channel with some very shareable video content? It’s true. Keep an eye out for more on our (614) Columbus account and on social media. In the meantime, check out the newest videos on our channel: now playing...

• Tasting Columbus—NEW episode!

Have you checked out our TV show “Tasting Columbus?” Join food scientist Matt Teegarden as he eats his way through Columbus’ food scene. A NEW episode dropped on Sept. 27th.

Make sure to tune in at tastingcolumbus.com or scan the QR code above.

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BARN-

AGAIN How one Central Ohio company is breaking down centuries-old barns and building them back up.

By Jim Fischer / Photos by Leonardo Carrizo

In 2006, Randy Smith was on a first date with the woman who is now his wife, when she told him that her dream home was a restored barn. Five years later, Smith has reclaimed enough wood from historic barns to have one built as the couple’s primary residence. “That’s when I really started down the rabbit hole, when I fell into the abyss,” he joked. →

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↑ Working-on site at a project

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↓ The barns foundation stands in place

↑ Randy Smith gets to work on the project

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↓ Randy Smith makes way into the barn renovations

↑ Markings from the French barn-builder that have stood the test of time

For years, Smith deconstructed barns on weekends before deciding to shutter his commercial roofing business and launching the Mount Gilead-based Ohio Valley Barn Salvage in 2018. Since then, Smith’s company has reclaimed, restored and relocated barns in Ohio, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Texas, North Carolina and, soon, Montana.

You may even recognize the company’s work at the recently-opened Henmick Farm & Brewery in Delaware, Ohio. Smith and crew relocated a 19th-century barn from the Lancaster area to Henmick, where it offers overflow taproom seating and an event space for the farm brewery.

OVBS works with clients on both ends — those looking to have a historic barn taken down and those looking to purchase one. And either way, it’s not a simple process.

Smith said he might have to look at 150 old barns to find one that’s suitable for a client. From there, he figures to show anywhere from 4-12 different suitable barns before they find the right one. “You see it when it happens, though,” he said. “Someone walks in and immediately they fall in love and know it’s the right barn.”

For Smith and his clientele, it really is a labor of love: Both for the beautiful old barns themselves, and the intricate history behind each one. “They all want to learn the history, where the barn came from, when it was built and who built and owned it,” he said.

Smith recalled a barn he dismantled in Sugarcreek, Ohio, with the help of an Amish crew. “One of the workers had the same last name as the barn-builder’s name inscribed on the foundation’s date stone. The next day, they brought in a book that had information about the community’s history, and come to find out it was his great-great-great grandfather who owned the property in the 1850s,” he said.

The histories aren’t always that clear, though. Date stones range in quality from ornate engravings to worn “chicken-scratch.” Information is often scant; records inconsistent.

If only Smith’s could be as lax.→

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"

When it’s a passion, it’s just a whole different rodeo, GUESS II JUST JUST II GUESS LOVE WHAT WHAT I’M I’M LOVE DOING. DOING.

"

When he’s standing in a barn that’s ready to be taken apart, he sees things like a puzzle, like a problem to be solved. The solutions come from his own meticulous record-keeping, but also experience and expertise, involving things like the integrity of the roof and floor in particular, inspections for bees, bats and snakes in the summertime.

“These barns typically have around 600 pieces.

That’s a lot to keep track of,” he said. “We did a job in Oklahoma where we had to wait several months between the time the material shipped and when we reassembled the barn. When we arrived, we discovered that chipmunks had eaten all the tags we labeled the wood with.”

Despite such scenarios, there’s not likely anything that could rescue Smith from the rabbit hole, though “I tried multiple times to get out and finally gave up,” Smith said with a laugh. “You get to the point where life’s just going to take you where it wants to drag you. I’ve accepted my fate.”

“When it’s a passion, it’s just a whole different rodeo,” he continued. “I guess I just love what I’m doing.”♦ To learn more, visit ohiovalleybarnsalvage.com

↑ Randy Smith on site of a current renovation

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John Blakely, owner of The Daily Bar ↓

Owner John Blakely is letting The Daily Bar reflect his personality, and he’s not holding anything back

By Jack McLaughlin Photos by Leonardo Carrizo

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↑ One of many cocktails offered by The Daily Bar

Ask John Blakely about his eclectic new Italian Village joint, The Daily Bar, and you’ll learn just as much about him and as you will the space. “[It’s] like walking the streets of Soho in the rain...cheeky, era-blending, tranquilly exuberant,” he said of the new establishment, located at 883 N. Fourth St. in a building over a century old.

The exuberance of The Daily Bar—with its floral wallpaper and retro-chic, playfully mismatched seating—mirrors the cheerful iconoclasm of Blakely himself, who showed up to discuss his new venture in a Ferrari racing jacket and an unimpeachable grin.

If it hasn’t become apparent already, we’ll spell it out for you: Blakely is a bit of a character, but in the best way possible. And not only does he embrace his quirkiness with open arms, he makes sure his new bar is dripping with it.

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Interior of The Daily Bar ↑

Also the owner of the popular craft beer haven The Daily Growler, Blakely is letting his hair down at The Daily Bar. “The Daily Growler is a family business and established brand; that isn't always the right place for my eccentricities and my love of vintage and my tendency toward non sequiturs,” he said.

These eccentricities are most apparent in what Blakely refers to as the bar’s “wall of denim.” This several-foot width of wall is coated in seemingly endless layers of the fabric, torn into strips and roughly patched back together.

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"It's like walking the streets of Soho in the rain... cheeky, era-blending, tranquilly exuberant"

↑ Detail shot of the bar's denim wall

While the new Italian Village bar, which opened early last month, is a spot for everyone (not just Blakely) to let their weird flags fly, it might also just become your new favorite spot to grab a drink.

With Columbus craft beer veteran Ryan Williams serving as manager, the bar offers a lengthy cocktail and wine menu, plus more than 40 taps serving up a rotating selection of craft beer, cider, and seltzer. Patrons can even expect to find more unusual offerings like spritzes, and what Blakely deems “the best port menu in Columbus.”

Port, a type of sweet, fortified wine from Portugal doesn’t usually top most drinkers’ lists. But true to form, Blakely goes in on what he loves, offering between six and eight port options to pick from at any given time.

And when he describes his fondness for the often overlooked drink—with excitement written clearly across his face—you might think for a second he’s describing The Daily Bar, or maybe even himself.

“It’s a wonderful and complex drink,” Blakely said. “With a little pomp and circumstance.”

To learn more, visit thedaily.bar 614NOW.COM

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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H OL I DAY G i f tG U ID E

THE OPTICAL. CO 870 N. High St., Columbus, OH 614-477-9229 www.theoptical.co Give the Gift of Style this holiday season with new eyewear and accessories from The Optical. Co. Located in the Short North, The Optical. Co offers a curated selection of handcrafted glasses & sunglasses from some of the best designers in the world. Vintage eyeglass cases & pouches make excellent stocking stuffers! Shop in-store and online!

NOM NOM NOM DOGGIE BAKERY www.nomnomnomfordogs.com Nom Nom Nom doggie bakery is your one stop pup spoiling shop! It’s the perfect place to shop for all the pups and dog lovers on this years holiday shopping list! Our high quality treats are made with locally sourced ingredients and will please even the pickiest of pallets. Check out our carefully selected, locally handmade items when you stop by!

Conveniently located in Hilliard and Canal Winchester.

Hope to see you and you your pup this holiday season.

Voted ‘America’s Finest Optical’

Glasses & Sunglasses starting at $65

VAN GOGH DOUBLE ESPRESSO VODKA Smooth yet bold, like your favorite cup of espresso! Van Gogh Double Espresso delivers a wealth of flavor for those who expect the most from their coffee & holiday cocktails. The natural infusion of Colombian coffee beans are significant & noticeable in the Double Espresso, which has a great roasted aroma with a touch of sweetness. A hint of bitterness in the taste adds to the complexity and keeps the spirit balanced. The warmth of Van Gogh Double Espresso served in a spiked hot coffee or espresso martini is perfect to share with friends during the holiday season.

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NORTH MARKET North Market Downtown 59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215

North Market Bridge Park 6750 Longshore Street, Dublin, OH 43017

Where else can you buy one-of-a-kind gifts, shop a wide selection of fresh food for holiday meals, and even get lunch -or- dinner (libations, too!) all while supporting local merchants right here in central Ohio? North Market Downtown and North Market Bridge Park have all of this and more for you to enjoy this holiday season!

This season, support local, fresh, and authentic independent businesses at your North Market!

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H O L I DAY G i f tG U ID E

BUDDHA BOWL 2973 North High Street, Columbus Ohio 614-929-5801 www.buddhabowl.com Buddha Bowl in Columbus, Ohio is a Thai inspired fast casual restaurant where you can customize your meals according to you dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Buddha Bowl offers gluten free and vegan options to deliver healthy meals on restricted diets. Don’t forget the spice!

Buddha bowl offers a wide range of spices so try them all!

MIDDLE WEST SPIRITS 1230 Courtland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 614-947-1231 www.middlewestspirits.com The Ported Pumpernickel Rye is aged four years is new American white oak casks and finished in French tawny port casks for an additional year. The oak imparts notes of vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon. The tawny casks layer the whiskey with hints of stone fruit and accentuate the nutmeg, and spiced rye.

Holiday Gift Cards Available DINE-IN • TAKEOUT • DELIVERY • ONLINE ORDERING

101 BEER KITCHEN

THUNDERKISS

www.101beerkitchen.com

www.Thunderkiss.coffee Thunderkisscoffee@gmail.com Instagram: @tkisscoffee

Do you have a food & beer lover in your life? Now is the perfect time to gift them a trip to 101 Beer Kitchen and get a little something for yourself! The entire month of December we’re giving you a $20 bonus card for every $100 spent in gift cards. Seasonal food and a chef-driven menu alongside an always-rotating draft beer selection; what else could the foodie in your life ask for? This offer is available online and at all locations (Dublin, Gahanna and Westerville).

Thunderkiss Coffee offers SAME DAY home delivery and shipping Monday through Friday. Taste this choice coffee served in the best indy cafes and gourmet markets. Fresh roasted coffee in 1lb and 5lb bags (ground upon request). Half gallons of cold brew coffee. Home delivery up to 20 miles from Columbus. Ship coffee gifts from our website and add a custom message. Using dependable UPS for the holidays.

Digital gift cards available on website

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H O L I DAY G i f tG U ID E

COLUMBUS MUSEUM OF ART 480 E. Broad Street, Columbus, OH 614-629-0314 www.columbusmuseum.org Van Gogh for the Holidays!

Fill your gift list with creative goods featuring the incredible works of Vincent Van Gogh. Our wide range of objects are handmade locally or well made from around the world.

Exhibition Catalogue Through Vincent's Eyes

$60

2021

SEVENTH SON FAMILY OF BREWERIES Seventh Son - www.seventhsonbrewing.com Antiques on High - www.antiquesonhigh.com The Getaway Brewing Co. - www.getawaybrewing.com The gift that keeps on giving is back with a couple of small changes. This year your $75 bond will turn into $100 gift card that works at all of the Seventh Son Family of Breweries (Seventh Son, Antiques on High & The Getaway Brewing Co) or a $100 bond that turns into $150 that can be redeemed at Getaway Brewing Co only.

Also, this year the cards are getting sent out in February rather than July so you can warm up with an ice cold brew even sooner.

Van Gogh trimmed leather gloves

$65

Irises scarf

$95

Members receive 20% discount during December!

Remember – we are happy to ship for you and gift wrapping is always FREE!

COLUMBUS SYMPHONY

YELLOW PIZZA BRICK

55 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215 614.469.0939 www.columbussymphony.com

415 W Rich St, Columbus, OH 43215 614.372.5983 www.yellowbrickpizza.com

Give the gift of music this holiday season! If you’re looking for something unique and inspiring for that special someone, Columbus Symphony gift cards make great stocking stuffers and can be used for any Pops, Masterworks, Picnic with the Pops or Family Concert.

Purchase your gift cards at www.columbussymphony.com

Give the Gift of Pizza this Holiday Season!

Yellow Brick Pizza is a neighborhood joint where patrons can experience artisan pizza & brews in a laid back atmosphere. Whatever your palate prefers, Yellow Brick Pizza will certainly satisfy your appetite for good food, good beer and good times! Eat in, carry out or delivery.

EAT PIZZA EVERYDAY AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS. Love, YBP

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Winter inter Cocktails BROWN-FORMAN

Columbus bartenders shake up the holiday cocktail game this season Looking for a great drink to spice up your gatherings this season? Look no further. Twelve bartenders, twelve unique cocktails, and twelve different spirits, there is something for everyone this winter!

Trifecta - Ben Griest 1 1/2 oz Slane Irish Whiskey 1/4 oz Banana Liquor 1/4 oz Peach Liquor 1/4 oz Vanilla Liquor 1/2 oz Fresh Lemon Juice 1/2 oz Simple Syurp (1:1) 1 dash Ms. Better's Bitters Miraculous Foamer Shake and strain into a Nick and Nora glass Garnish with a lemon twist

East Meets West - Bryan Kao 1 1/2 oz Woodford Reserve Double Oaked 3/4 oz Lychee Liqueur 2 dashes Angostura Bitters 1 dash Orange Bitters 1/2 oz Lychee Syrup Splash of Cranberry Juice Top with Ginger Beer Build in collins glass and stir together, garnish with cranberry and mint

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION SPONSORED BY BROWN-FORMAN Nick and Nora glass is named after the characters Fun Fact: The Nick and Nora from the novel "The Thin Man". Nick is a

detective who loves a good drink, and both take part in the 1930s "cocktail culture".

Noon as Dark as Midnight - Jesse Hubbard 2 oz Old Forester Bourbon 1/2 oz Blanc Vermouth 1/4 oz Nochino 1/4 oz Pure Maple Syrup 2 dashes Woodford Reserve Spiced Cherry Bitters Luxardo cherry garnish Build in mixing glass, add ice, stir, strain into a Nick & Nora glass

Giant Shelleytini - Liz Mitchell 7 oz Finlandia Vodka 2 oz Aperol 1 oz Strawberry Puree 2 oz Agave 4 oz Cold Pressed Pineapple Juice 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice 8 dashes Hibiscus Water Shaken tableside in giant shaker, over ice Topped with sparkling Rosé and garnished with orchid flowers and dehydrated citrus wheels (serves up to 6)

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BROWN-FORMAN

Winter inter Cocktails El Jefe - Tyler Plymale 2 oz Herradura Ultra Tequila 3/4 oz Orange Liquor 3/4 oz Lime Juice 1/4 oz Velvet Falernum 1/4 oz Agave Nectar Citrus Salt Rim Combine all ingredients in mixing tin with ice, shake vigorously, strain into rimmed margarita glass

Speyside Highball - Garry White 1 oz Benriach Original 10 Year Single Malt Scotch Whiskey 1/2 oz Pear Cordial 3/4 oz Lemon Juice 3/4 oz Lapsong Souchong Honey Syrup 1 Tbsp. Pear Preserves Top with Soda Combine all ingredients except soda in a shaking tin Top with ice Shake until well chilled Strain into a Highball glass over fresh ice, top with soda Garnish with a dehydrated pear

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION SPONSORED BY BROWN-FORMAN

SINamon Stocking - Sara DeVenzio 1 1/2 oz Jack Daniel's Tennessee Fire Top with Cranberry Juice and splash of Heavy Whipping Cream Shake and serve over ice in a rocks glass Rim with crushed candy cane and garnish with a candy cane

Twelve O-H Four - Jackson Ludin 2 oz Bacon Fat Washed Jack Daniel's Tennessee Rye 1/2 oz Lapsang Sochoung Infused Sweet Vermouth 1/2 oz Chile Liqour 1/2 oz Maple Syrup 3 dash Black Peppercorn Infused Bitters 1 drop Cayenne Tincture Build in mixing glass, stir and strain into a coupe glass Orange and lemon twist garnish

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BROWN-FORMAN

Winter inter Cocktails Apple Crisp Sour - Aaron Hudson 1 1/4 oz Jack Apple 1 oz Apple Cider ¼ oz Lemon Juice ¼ oz Lime Juice ¼ oz Simple Syrup 1 oz Egg White 3 dashes Cranberry Bitters Sprinkle Cinnamon Build in tin - shake - add ice shake again Strain into a coupe glass and sprinkle cinnamon

The Amarga de Barcelona - Aaron Fancey 1 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon 1/2 oz Blended Brandy & French Herbal Liqueur 1 dash each Black Walnut and Rhubarb Bitters 1/4 oz Simple Syrup 1/4 oz Lemon Juice Build in mixing glass stir and strain into a small rocks glass over fresh rocks Orange and Luxardo Cherry flag garnish

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION SPONSORED BY BROWN-FORMAN

The Journey - William Besaw 1 1/2 oz Fords Gin ½ oz Honey Simple Syrup ½ oz Fresh Ginger Syrup ¼ oz Amaro ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice 2 dashes Lavender Bitters Build in cocktail shaker, shake, strain over fresh ice in a short collins glass Garnish with Baby’s Breath

BBH by the Bonfire - Chris Cruceta 2 oz Coopers' Craft Barrel Reserve 100 proof ½ oz Serano Infused Maple Syrup ½ oz Velvet Falernum Liqueur ¼ oz Lemon Juice ¼ oz Vanilla Liquor Bar spoon of Cherry Juice Rim glass with Carbonated Sugar and Black Salt Mix & shake - pour over (1) rock

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A

P

The C ru

st's pe

IZZ

sto piz

za ↓

A clandestine ghost kitchen inside The Crest Gastropub is secretly serving up some of the best new pizza in Columbus.

By Laura Hennigan Photos by Jen Brown Illustration by Emma Quinn

With a logo depicting a seemingly gentle sheep, The Crest Gastropub prides itself on a plated, farm-to-table menu. But appearances can be deceiving. Taking a peek under the surface will uncover their wolfish new pizza concept, The Crust. With toppings like house-pickled peppers, chevre, and basil, this ghost kitchen has quietly opened to offer a brand new take on traditional pies that is as delicious as it is intriguing.→

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" " co The

wner of The Crest, and The

↑ Justin Wotring, the co-o

asters that double as

men u'

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Crust

The Crust's C

hef's Cho

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ice ↓

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za makes its way out

Their classic cheese piz

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of the oven ↑

Chef Jon Gruseck in the kitchen ↓

For more pizza information, visit Thecrust614.com

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Say “no” to the snow and opt for indoor winter entertainment this year.

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The fireplace featured at Round II ↓

LIGHT FIRE

From pizzerias to farm breweries, these ten indoor fireplaces will keep you cozy all winter long.

By Mallory Arnold / Photos by Maddie Schroeder

There’s nothing better than snuggling up to a cozy fireplace — except maybe enjoying that cozy fireplace with a cooked meal at your favorite local restaurant or bar. The next time you’re planning an evening out in the chilly air, check out one of the following spots to warm up.→

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CAFE’S ROUND II 1312 GRANDVIEW AVE. If Round II’s smoked brisket or baby back ribs don’t warm you up enough, its long, ultra-modern fireplaces behind the bar and lining the patio will. And with screens throughout the bar often playing a Buckeyes game, things get even more heated on gameday!

THE TOP STEAK HOUSE 2891 EAST MAIN ST.

The fireplace at Round II illuminates the patio ↑

The fireplace in The Top’s dining room is set between two cozy booths, offering heat and illuminating the space when the restaurant lights dim.

NATALIE’S COAL FIRED PIZZA & LIVE MUSIC 5601 N. HIGH ST. Natalie’s most eye-catching feature, besides its pizza, is the large coalfired pizza oven open for patrons to see. Not only can you enjoy the cozy atmosphere, but you can keep an eye on your pizza as chefs work their magic baking it.

SONO WOOD FIRED COLUMBUS EASTON TOWN CENTER, 4055 THE STRAND W. One of the coziest spots on our list, Sono Wood Fired Columbus has two wood-fired ovens front and center that not only emit heat but waft a delicious pizza smell.

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Sono's wood-fored oven ablaze ↑

A cozy seating area surrounds the fire at The Barn ↑

THE BARN

AT ROCKY FORK CREEK 1370 E. JOHNSTOWN RD. One of Cameron Mitchell Restaurants’ most charming destinations, The Barn is a rustic restaurant with vintage whiskey and bourbon barrels behind the bar and a stone hearth in the private dining area.

HYDE PARK PRIME STEAKHOUSE 1615 OLD HENDERSON RD. This is the hot spot for good steak, especially because there are not one, not two, but five fireplaces within the eatery.

HENMICK FARM & BREWERY 4380 N. OLD STATE RD. This new brewery not only boasts a historic 19th-century barn reconstructed on-site to seat guests, it features a massive stone fireplace with custom masonry inside of it.

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IGLOO TWO

A couple enjoy their cozy igloo at VASO ↓

VASO Rooftop Lounge offers unique, and uniquely-cozy, rooftop igloos for a dining experience you won’t soon forget.

By Mallory Arnold / Photos by Sarah Pfeifer

When eating at a restaurant, it’s common for a server to ask, “Indoor or outdoor seating?” But it’s only at VASO Rooftop Lounge that a third option might be on the table: “Igloo or non-igloo? →

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Spirits and appetizers that can be served to your rooftop igloo ↑

The warm and snug interior ↓

VASO’s temperature-controlled igloos are outdoor dome-shaped coverings offering guests a creative, and cozy, enclave from winter weather, while still allowing them to take in the sweeping rooftop views from VASO’s iconic rooftop patio.

Now a popular yearly fixture at the restaurant, the igloos were developed in 2018, during VASO’s second winter. “We searched for a way to utilize our spacious outdoor areas during the colder months and came across these igloos not yet seen in central Ohio,” said Joshua Buck, corporate food and beverage operations manager for Shaner Hotels. “And we thought it would be a great way to allow our guests a warm outdoor dining experience while they watch the snow fall around them.”

Buck said this has been dubbed the Igloo Experience.

“Because it’s not just a style of dining,” he said. “But an entire experience that creates longlasting memories.”

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It’s certainly more than a table and silverware. The Igloo Experience comes with warm fur blankets, adjustable LED lights, space heaters and even a personal call system that alerts the servers whenever a guest requires attention.

While the igloos were initially created for temperature regulation, they’ve come in handy during the toughest times of the pandemic, as well, as they are ideal for socially-distanced dining.

“We ended up starting a trend that blossomed even further during the pandemic,” Buck said.

But unlike real igloos, which melt and disappear, VASO’s are here to stay.

“The response from our guests has been overwhelmingly positive,” Buck said. “We have so many return guests that travel from out of town just for the Igloo Experience every year.”

The VASO menu, which is focused on small and shareable plates, synergizes with the igloo format. Diners can split an order of Cali chicken with banana peppers and sweet chili sauce, or grab a few cocktails alongside an order of dessert churros.

And if the snow starts falling while your food arrives, there’s no need to worry. It will just make for an even prettier rooftop view.

To learn more, visit vasodublin.com/igloos

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The table preped for the scented oils to be mixed↓

MAKING SCENTS From oils to wax, Penn & Beech Candle Co. is letting Columbus craft its own candles.

By David Willams / Photos by Allison Grimes

Everyone knows the perfect compliment to a winter evening indoors is a flickering candle that fills the room with the smell of balsam fir, or maybe cinnamon spice.→

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The only way to really find your perfect winter candle, though, is to craft it yourself. At Penn & Beech Candle Co. (formerly The Candle Lab), you can take a hands-on approach to the entire candle-making process: from handpouring wax to carefully selecting your favorite fragrances and oils to combine, you’re able to customize and craft your candle from start to finish.

The Penn & Beech fragrance bar features over 100 scents that range from bacon and bubble-gum to sweetgrass and oven-baked bread (not to mention seasonal scents like mulled cider or first snow), there is definitely something for everyone.

Overwhelmed? Can’t decide what direction to go? No worries. A staff member will help you pick out complimentary scents to make that candle your own. Going for early-morning campfire coffee vibes? They’ll let you know that the coffee scent can be a little overpowering and might mask the subtle scent of campfire.

And if you happen to have a loose idea of the scent you’re going for but can’t quite pin things down, feel free to consult their scent collections, which include categories like clean scents, fruity scents, winter scents, and more.

Select your own container to match your own style ↑

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The scent Banana A-Peel burns and fills the store with its scent ↑

The wax pouring proccess ↓

Once a selection has been made (after sniffing to your heart’s content, of course) you simply need to select a vessel, mosey back to your workstation, and let staff guide you with helpful tips while you get to mixing.

The rest of the process goes a little something like this: The scented oils are mixed together with a cocktail jigger before being stirred back into a beaker of freshly-poured soy wax. The mixture is then transferred into the selected vessel, which can include anything from a rocks glass to cement planter, or even a copper mule cup.

The final step in the process: waiting. You’ll need to give your newly-minted candle at least two full hours to set, although the store is happy to hold it for up to two weeks.

While cost can vary depending on size, vessel, and scent, a self-made Penn & Beech candle starts at $22, with sizes ranging from 8 to 16 ounces.

If you’re looking for something else to keep that winter cabin smelling fresh, the store also offers a variety of other customizable home fragrance products such as reed diffusers, room sprays, and wax tarts.

Because at the end of the day, when the temperature starts dropping and you want to cozy up inside with a winter scent and some soft candlelight, everything smells just a bit better— and feels just a touch cozier—when that candle is homemade.

For more, visit pennandbeech.com

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Mark Stone, Millright and instructor at WoodCraft of Columbus uses a table saw for a project ↓

AGAINST GRAIN Why woodworking could become the cold-weather hobby you need.

By Laura Hennigan / Photos by James DeCamp

Many hobbies have been picked up over the past 18 months, some with more success than others. If you’re ready for an indoor winter activity that doesn’t involve binge-watching Netflix or making sourdough, you may want to consider trying your hand(s) at woodworking.→

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Filing notches for strings in a guitar head ↑

Tucked into a small Bethel Road plaza, Woodcraft of Columbus is an unassuming storefront that quietly houses a fascinating trove of classes and events. In fact, it might even become the hub for your new favorite pastime.

According to manager Nick Knue, the local woodworking haven offers beginner, intermediate and advanced classes, so there’s something for everyone. “In our beginner classes, everything is supplied,” he said. “So you literally just need to show up.”

Class offerings run the gamut as well, from bowl turning, to building your own electric guitar and concert ukulele, to Ohio Woods 101. They are generally offered in the evenings and on weekends, and some run as a two or three part series.

Woodcraft of Columbus owner Robert Smith said the store had to scramble to piece things together during the height of the pandemic, but is proud that they have been able to continue offering classes with very few cancellations.

“We hold classes in our workshop at the rear of the store, and from now through the end of May is our most busy time,” he said.

Students who take a class are offered a store discount, if woodworking has piqued their interest and they’d like to purchase any tools to take home. They also have access to a wide range of instructors, each of whom is well-versed in different skills.

"

THE holidays BRING OTHER TYPES OF CLASSES, INCLUDING MAKING ITEMS THAT YOU COULD GIVE AS A gift...

"

Mark Stone works on a band saw to cut wood to dimension ↑

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Colin McKay, Instructor at Woodcraft of Columbus talks with Nick Knue, Manager of the store, about using vainer to spruce up a project. ↑

The Woodcraft date night classes on Friday and Saturday feature themes like Harry Potter wands and pen making, and frequently sell out.

“It’s a fun night with your partner,” said Knue.

“For one price per couple you come in, have some dinner, and learn a new skill together.”

Their parent and child class options are also popular, and there are several upcoming opportunities for duos to make ornaments or utensil sets together. “The holidays bring other types of classes, including making items that you could give as a gift like knives, trivets or bottle stoppers,” Smith said.

In addition to specialty classes and events, Woodcraft of Columbus sells supplies, tools, and different varieties of lumber. It even offers a millwork service, for outsourcing project components to their experienced staff.

Knue’s ultimate vision is for the storefront to become a touchstone location for woodcrafters new and old alike. “We encourage visitors to stop in anytime to learn more about Woodcraft, talk shop about woodworking, pick up supplies, or get project advice from our team,” he said.

To learn more, visit woodcraft.com/stores/columbus

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By Jack McLaughlin

What to do and where to go around Greater Columbus 60

State Street in downtown Westerville ↑

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It’s time we broaden our horizons a bit. As much as there is to do within Columbus proper, it’s a big world out there, one that’s full of other interesting, historical, and downright fun new destinations.

We’re shining a light on some of the cities in the direct vicinity of Columbus to find out what they have to offer, and to show you what to do when you check them out. We’ve also included a profile of one (of so many!) neighborhoods within Columbus to bolster your knowledge of the city itself.

So from the tree-lined streets of Bexley to Otterbein’s historic red brick in Westerville, let’s take a trip together, Columbus.

WELCOME TO NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT

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By Melinda Green Photos by Allison Grimes

From Bridge Park to Metro Parks, Dublin has it all

Think of Dublin, Ohio, and you probably think of two big things: the yearly Irish Festival and Memorial Golf Tournament. But there’s much more to the city than these. Of course, the Dublin area is also home to the big Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (plus Zoombezi Bay), but it’s also home to many smaller, everyday adventures.

Despite the name, Dublin’s first European settlers were mostly non-Irish. But the title stuck, and it has associated the city with all things Irish for a long time— including a Celtic cocktail trail and a fairy door trail.

But Dublin is built on former Native American lands. Rich earth, high ground, and natural spring water made it ideal for agriculture, and the Scioto River was vital for trade and transportation.

At the annual Memorial Tournament, rain is almost always a given, and legend has it that’s because the Muirfield Village Golf Club and its traffic are disruptive to the final resting place of Wyandot chief Shateyoranyah. His curse is considered by many to be very real.

Today, you can stop by the “stone face” monument to Chief Leatherlips at Scioto Park, and visit Indian Run Falls where the Wyandot once camped. You can also opt to chill out for a while at quiet Ferris-Wright Park, home to three geometric earthworks and five burial mounds from the Hopewell era, some dating back 12,000 years.

The pedestrian bridge leading from Old Dublin to Bridge Park ↑

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↓ Chief Leatherlips monument

If you want great dining, Dublin is the place to be.

In an informal poll of locals, the hands-down favorite restaurant was Z Cucina di Spirito on Riverside Drive.

House-made pasta, seafood, and prime meats fill the menu.

And Dublin's putting itself on the map all over again with Bridge Park, its trendy riverfront district.

Kitchen Social and VASO Rooftop Lounge are two of the hottest spots in the city for dining as well. Want to elevate your meal? Book an igloo experience at VASO, complete with blankets and space heaters. It’s pricey, but a great way to impress your date.

For year-round outdoor fun, hit Glacier Ridge Metro Park (the address may say Plain City, but it’s on the edge of Dublin) for bike paths, a challenge course, a natural play area, and more. Or when it’s warm, get a group together, pool your money, and book a Scioto River kayak adventure from Sunrise Kayaking.

You definitely don’t have to “go big or go home” here. There are plenty of opportunities to have fun in Dublin, any day of the week.

To learn more, visit dublinohiousa.gov

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Grove City is reclaiming its name as a destination

By Melinda Green / Photos by Maddie Schroeder

↑ Flag featuring Grove City's seal

Named for the groves of beech, oak, maple, dogwood, and walnut trees left standing after the wilderness was cleared in the mid-19th century, Grove City is a fast-growing and family-friendly suburb.

One hundred years ago, though, Grove City was a popular entertainment destination. Columbus residents boarded electric trains and flocked south to the Kingdom Theatre for movies, Grant’s Auditorium for dancing, and, of course, Beulah Park for Thoroughbred racing.

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Today, Grove City is known for its unpretentious, middle-class attitude, reflected in many of its restaurants. You’ll definitely want to check out the bustling Three Brothers Diner, tucked into an aging strip mall on Southwest Boulevard, for a brunch cocktail and hearty Mexican-American fusion dishes (including all-day breakfast), often prepared by the restaurant’s namesake trio of brothers who hail from Oaxaca themselves.

Or, if pizza's your thing, the locals swear by Zamarelli's Pizza Palace and its thin, crispy crust piled high with toppings. But get ready to scarf it down in your car if you’re impatient, and definitely bring cash—this one is carryout only and you can’t pay with plastic.

And it wouldn’t be Grove City without mentioning China Bell and its extensive, traditional Chinese menu.

For over 20 years, the family-owned restaurant on Stringtown Road has been an informal rite of passage of sorts for anyone in the area.

Hit the Town Center on Broadway for a fun weekend afternoon. Shop for antiques and treasures from more than 30 vendors at Country Hearth Primitives, and pick up some Ohio-sourced honey from the Honey House while you’re there. Grab a brew and a sandwich across the street at Grove City Brewing, then head over to Skylark Toys & Comics. Or head up the street a bit to Tommy’s Jerky Outlet and Jolly Pirate Donuts. There are a lot of options!

It’s also a great place to get some fresh air. Hike some of the 18 miles of trails, visit the nature center at Battelle-Darby Creek Metro Park, or get in a workout with the exercise equipment on the running trail at Henceroth Park. The city also has an 18-hole disc golf course and an outdoor skate park, both on Hoover Road.

Looking for a little education with your outdoor adventure? Visit Gantz Park’s gardens and arboretum for a self-guided tour or gardening class, or watch history come to life and sign up for a blacksmithing class at Century Village.

Whatever you choose, you might start seeing this humble city in a whole new, shining light.

To learn more, visit grovecityohio.gov

Grove City Brewing's Tap Handles ↓

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By Melissa Braithwaite / Photos by James DeCamp

A stone’s throw from downtown Columbus, Bexley offers small-town charm with big city attractions

Aerial view of Capital University's football field, featuring downtown Columbus in the background ↑

Just east of the city lies a small urban enclave known for its natural beauty, large estates including the Governor’s Mansion, great public schools, and private universities (Capital University and Trinity Lutheran Seminary). With a storied history, many lifelong residents and a small-town vibe, Bexley is one of those places where a Hallmark movie might take place.

With more trees than residents, Bexley was the first city in the United States to obtain arboretum accreditation in 2013. Bexley has catalogued more than 14,000 trees in this urban oasis.

The city offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors -- with extensive bike trails and fishing or creeking along the banks of Alum Creek. If you’re not feeling particularly athletic, grab a Nashville Hoodie (trust us on this one) from Kittie’s Cakes, browse locally owned Gramercy Books or Urban Emporium and take a stroll down mansion-lined Parkview or Columbia avenues.

Jeffrey Park, a favorite of residents, is a Bexleyowned 32-acre estate that is essentially the backyard of the sprawling and historic Jeffrey Mansion.

Donated by the Jeffrey family to the city in 1941, the mansion plays host to private events, city programs and even a pre-school. Behind its large meadow is a short hiking loop, which takes visitors through oldgrowth forest to the banks of Alum Creek. Take in the wildlife, and the quiet, which is particularly spectacular in the colder months.

After you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time to head to Bexley’s historic Main Street, where you can enjoy a bite to eat or see a flick at the legendary Drexel Theatre.

Giuseppe's Ritrovo offers excellent classic Italian fare and has been a neighborhood staple since 1996.

The Rolling Stones dined there while in town several years back; look for their photo on the wall.

↓ Drexel Theater

If it’s fine dining you’re after, drop in to The Top, just outside of Bexley proper. Often cited as locals’ go-to restaurant for a fancy date-night, it’s a throwback to the supper clubs of the 1950s, complete with dimly lit leather booths and a piano bar with live music nightly.

If you don’t want to drop a lot of dough on dinner, hit up one of Bexley’s many pizza joints. Likely the most well-known of these, Rubino’s, opened its doors in 1954 and is something of a Columbus institution.

This no-frills, old-school restaurant accepts cash only and serves up their crunchy thin-crust pizza to take home in a paper bag. If you prefer to fold your slices, check out Anthony’s Pizzeria, an authentic New Yorkstyle pizza establishment. If award-winning specialty pizzas are more your thing, visit Bexley Pizza Plus or Harvest, both also on Main Street.

If you’d rather cook for yourself, hit up Bexley butcher Macelleria, for pasture-raised livestock and specialty products with an Italian focus. Choose from classic cuts to specialities like wild boar sausage, braciole and porchetta.

So although Bexley might sometimes feel a world away from other faster-paced neighborhoods or cities nearby, at less than five miles from downtown Columbus, you’re close enough to stop by anytime you’d like.

To learn more, visit bexley.org

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Westerville packs in outdoor fun with history and bustling business

By Melissa Braithwaite / Photos by James DeCamp

Westerville is a multi-faceted community—it’s a college town, a family town, a food town, an outdoors town, and it even boasts a rich, interesting history to boot. When you’re in this sprawling suburb, the sky’s the limit when it comes to things to do.

Westerville is home to Otterbein University, with its picturesque campus and vibrant student life.

The school also provides many (often free) cultural opportunities, including theater, music and more.

The city, tucked away 20 miles north of downtown Columbus, is truly a nature-lover's paradise. Home to Sharon Woods Metro Park and Inniswood Metro Garden, as well as Hoover Dam, natural beauty abounds here. It’s not hard to stay active in a city that boasts 51 miles of recreational trails—known as the Westerville Bike and Walkways—which pass through a variety of landscapes and terrains.

Grab the kids and head to Sharon Woods, known by families throughout the area for its awesome natural play area and sledding hill. When it warms up, rent a canoe and explore Schrock Lake within the park.

Inniswood features several short trails that are open year-round as well. Hoover Reservoir and its dam are wonders to behold. The huge dam was created due to a post-war demand for water in1953, and is still fascinating to explore today.

And speaking of back in the day: Did you know that Westerville was once known as the “The Dry Capital of the World?" Famous for its strict laws prohibiting the sales of alcohol, Westerville became home to the Anti-Saloon League, one of the driving forces behind Prohibition at the beginning of the 20th century. However, these days, the town has

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embraced craft beer culture and is home to several fine breweries, including Temperance Row Brewing (offering a playful nod to the city’s dry history with its name) and Galena Brewing Co. Head to State Street to experience all that Uptown Westerville has to offer, from dining and entertainment to shopping and simply hanging out. First, check out Asterisk Supper Club for classic British tea complete with tea sandwiches, scones, clotted cream and jam.

If a martini is more your speed, sip one at their historic 1890s bar—just make sure to get there in time for their outstanding happy hour.

At the corner of State Street and College Avenue in downtown Westerville ↑

↑ Towers Hall at Otterbein University

Grab some Shirley’s Popcorn or Whit’s Custard to satisfy your sweet tooth. Locals know to stop by the historic Schneider’s Bakery and bring home a Celebration Donut, which is essentially the size of a cake. No special occasion needed to grab one.

Westerville also offers many public spaces for quiet reflection. A local favorite is the beautiful First Responders Park. The stunning memorial features a wall dedicated to fallen heroes and all first responders.

The centerpiece, however, is a section of steel from the north tower of the World Trade Center that fell on Sept. 11. Later, the city dedicated “The Crossing,” a sculpture honoring fallen Westerville firefighter David Theisen.

A fascinating town with something for everyone, Westerville’s a premier suburban Columbus destination for a reason: It offers that hometown feel with the opportunities of a big city.

To learn more, visit westerville.org

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Inside the SoHud Collective bus ↑

Once overlooked, SoHud is quickly becoming a hotspot neighborhood for business and creatives alike

By Zeb Larson / Photos by Sarah Pfeifer

The neighborhood of SoHud has flown under the radar for years. In fact, many Columbus residents have never even heard of the area, which runs loosely from Hudson Street to Luka Ravine, between the railroad tracks to the east and High Street to the west.

In 2021, though, the neighborhood is booming, with vibrant new businesses like Psychobilly Barbershop and Lovebirds (a hip new bar embracing karaoke, dance parties, and more) joining

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neighborhood favorites like Rumba Café and Evolved Tattoo Shop.

“I think it’s flown under the radar because you either tell people you live in North Campus or you tell people you live in Clintonville. SoHud is perfectly in the middle of it,” said Taylor Grindle, who runs SoHud Collective, a boutique vintage clothing store that operates out of a defunct bus. He’s also active in SoHud’s Mystic Market, an esoteric SoHud

pop-up market that hosts everything from artists, to tarot readers and even animal whisperers.

Joel McPeak, the owner of Honeycup Coffee—a refurbished trailer turned mobile coffee stop parked in the heart of SoHud—relocated to the neighborhood in 2013 and never left. “I’ve loved it the whole time I’ve lived here,” he said. “Back then, it was quieter: one of the chief perks was being able to walk to Glen Echo Park.”

Now, according to Grindle, the landscape has grown up a bit, with exciting new business and restaurants lining up to move into SoHud. “It looks like a mini-city,” he said. “So there’s Evolved which is a tattoo shop, there’s Punk Pigs which has grilled cheese, there’s a couple bars, there’s Used Kids Records…right on this corner, you have 10 businesses that aren’t Wendy’s, Chipotle, or McDonalds.”

Part of what makes SoHud’s businesses unique, according to McPeak, is that so many of them are run by people who live there, Honeycup included.

“Everyone who owns a business knows everybody else who owns a business, and they all support each other…The local residents have been the ones stepping up and making it happen.”

The Neighborhood also supports a bustling creative scene. While Used Kids Records has been a hub for Columbus musicians and music-lovers for years, SoHud is also home to a variety of rotating inhome shows. “If you want to go to good house shows in Columbus, you should be in SoHud,” McPeak said.

“All the members of Left Out live here, there’s Rat Attack, another one called Jayus, Rat Motel.”

For Grindle, ultimately, the real attraction of SoHud is the people. “As a twenty-something living on my own, I don’t always feel like I get to know people that are outside of my friend group,” he said.

“But in SoHud, you get to know all of your neighbors.

Really getting to know all of the people in your neighborhood is a magical thing.”

To learn more, follow them on Instagram @SoHudCollective

↓ Vinyl for sale inside Used Kids Records

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

jennings java

www.jenningsjava.com (614) 935-8348 1193 S. Front Street, Columbus, OH 43206 On the hilly campus of Muskingum University, Jennings Java was born from a college dorm room in the Spring of 2016. Jennings Java highlights coffee’s unique flavors by sourcing quality beans from various regions around the world. Jennings Java promises the freshest flavor and an authentic experience with each sip. This is how we remain “True to the Origin” in every cup.

www.telhio.org

At Telhio Credit Union, small business is our business. From business checking and savings accounts to credit cards, employee banking solutions, and lending and treasury management options, we have everything you need to make sure your business is set for financial success. This is why over 3,000 businesses bank with Telhio Credit Union and benefit from important features like low credit card rates, incredible lending, leasing, and real estate options, and solutions to help manage cash flow. You could say that we take your business banking personally.

PARSONS NORTH BREWING

ARTISAN EATS

IG: @parsons_north FB: @ParsonsNorthBeer info@parsonsnorth.com

However you entertain this year, we have the perfect Charcuterie option for your festivities. We start by sourcing a variety of fresh foods with vibrant colors and textures to create a lavish feast for you to enjoy. Choose from our captivating grazing tables, indulgent Charcuterie platters or an Artisan Eats gift card — should you need that perfect gift for your favorite foodie! Conveniently order through our website with local delivery available.

parsonsnorth.com (614) 824-4208 685 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206

Let us “craft” your holiday gifts for you. Shoot us an email to get started. Holiday party reservations available too!

If they don’t have it, then tell them to get it (wink wink).

Cheers and welcome back!

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aeplatters.com

Follow us on Instagram: @aeplatters

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

uptown cheapskate www.uptowncheapskate.com/location/reynoldsburg (614) 321-9018 2783 Taylor Rd SW, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 Do a world of good, shop resale. Uptown Cheapskate is not your average thrift store. We buy what you loved yesterday, and sell what you want today. We pay cash on the spot for the stylish gently used apparel, handbags, and accessories and sell them today at up to 70% off mall prices! With thousands of unique items and hundreds of new items every day, you’ll find all your favorite brands and designers under one roof.

LINDEY’S www.lindeys.com (614) 228-4343 169 E Beck St, Columbus, OH 43206 Lindey’s is a high-energy, white tablecloth bistro located in the heart of historic German Village. Opened in 1981 by Sue Doody, Lindey’s is a long-time favorite of hip locals and out-of- towners alike.

Lindey’s marries chic urban style with a relaxed come-as-you-are attitude. Lindey’s enduring charm is rooted in its atmosphere of everyday elegance, with an eclectic clientele that reflects a blend of innovation and tradition. Enjoy a relaxing brunch, power lunch, intimate dinner, and everything in between. Lindey’s has been consistently voted one of Columbus’ top restaurants.

Holiday Catering & Holiday Gift Cards Available.

pie of the tiger

DO2SABORES

A Little Detroit. A Little Sicilian. Allll Yellow Brick Pizza. It’s Pizza unlike any other.

Do2 sabores we are a family owned and operated to fulfill the authentic Mexican flavors in every dish. Offering fajitas, carne asada, margaritas and crafted cocktails and much more!

(380) 210-0197 674 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43215

Since unveiling the new style, Yellow Brick has introduced a handful of varieties, including Margherita (garlic, provolone, tomatoes, ricotta, Italian seasoning, and pesto), Meatball Sundae (provolone, slices of house-made meatballs, shaved parmesan, red sauce, ricotta, and Italian seasoning) and Dill Thrill (garlic, provolone, dill pickles, Old Bay Hot Suace, and ranch dressing).

www.do2sabores.com (614) 781-0713 6042 Huntley Rd, Columbus, OH 43229

Available only at the Short North Tavern · Every day 4-11pm Carry Out or Dine In.

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The new Mystic Market is whisking Columbus away to a different world

By Jaelani Turner-Williams / Photos by Aaron Massey

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Halloween might be long gone, but here—in an expansive lot at the corner of Hudson and Summit in the heart of the SoHud neighborhood—any night can feel like the 31st of October.

That’s because this bustling SoHud corner is home to Mystic Market, a pop-up night market that features everything from healing practitioners, palm and energy readers, metaphysical products, crystals, bonfires, music, art and a slew of other non-traditional purveyors to create an atmosphere that feels like equal parts otherworldly bazaar and music festival.

Co-managed by Lindsay Ciulla, owner of the crystal and jewelry boutique Heart & Stars, alongside visual artist and photographer Cat Ramos, the market started as a collaborative effort from the two “mystic mommies” to encourage authentic, local creators.

Supported by its very own Mystic Council, the festival aims to continue bringing metaphysical wonders— including everything from animal whisperers to tarot readings—to the neighborhood for a long time to come.

“When a lot of people think about magic, they think ‘witch’ or ‘cults’. To me, it’s from cultures: All these different cultures have holistic healing in their own way,” Ramos said. “My goal with Mystic Market is for all these cultures to come together in a giant melting pot and educate everybody of their different forms of magic or their traditions, or their cultures.”

← Tarot cards hang next to a crescent sculpture

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↓ Crystal skulls sculptures

↑ A Mystic Market attendee with facepaint and costume

"My goal with is for all these cultures to come together in a giant melting pot and educate everybody of their different forms of magic or their traditions, or their cultures."

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Market-goers dance on top of the SoHud bus↓

↑ Hand made Wu-Tang merchandise

While Ramos partnered with Ciulla to coordinate Mystic Market shortly after the pair met at a SoHud summer solstice bonfire in July, Ciulla has long incorporated her own kind of healing into Heart & Stars. After losing her father and experiencing two separate concussions while working as a waitress in Arizona, Ciulla began to paint and bead for therapeutic purposes, before eventually mustering the energy to host her first Heart & Stars pop-up in Tucson in 2020.

Relocating to Columbus from California in 1997, Ramos’ artwork allows her to preserve and honor Latino culture much like one of her heroes, Frida Kahlo.

And now, through both Ramos and Ciulla, Mystic Market continues to ignite the creativity of local artists and magic practitioners.

Representing the BIPOC community and acknowledging the indigenous history of spiritual practices, the market often tackles the misinterpretation of cultural traditions as well, such as the Latino holiday Día De Los Muertos, or The Day of the Dead.

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“A lot of people assume we are praying to Santa Muerte which is the saint of death, and a lot of people have a misconception of that,” Ramos said. “They may think it's evil or demonic, but we’re all going to die, and the way [Latinos] view it is a lot different than everybody else: It’s a celebration of life versus being really morbid about it.”

And although magic may carry a negative connotation to some, Mystic Market brings celebratory energy into the misunderstood world of the supernatural.

The Mystic Council is currently prepping its Magical Winter Ball and Nightmare Before Christmas-themed markets to take place in December, and the Mystic Market—which will be held at least once a month throughout the year—will still be a spellbinding wonder that’s fun and inviting for all.

First timers and avid Market fans alike can browse through fashionable goodies from designer vendors or vintage upcycler SoHud Collective (operating out of an empty bus), catch performances by local musicians and dancers, have their aura painted, or even get pastlife hypnosis readings.

Championing the SoHud neighborhood where the event is held, the Market is also a place of community.

Not only can SoHud residents themselves connect, it allows people from all backgrounds, of all ages and stations, to come together.

“Columbus has a lot of special, unique, magical people and sometimes it can be a really lonely world before you connect and find your community,” Ciulla said. “We’re so much more powerful together.”

To learn more, follow them on Instagram @MysticMrkt

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Introducing your playlist of events for this year’s holiday season.

By Melissa Braithwaite

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HOLIDAY HYPE During this time of the year, there are so many fantastic options to enjoy holiday cheer in and around Columbus: From holiday trolley hops to an ultra-festive Franklin Park Conservatory. So grab some hot cocoa, and read on for a look at some standout holiday events this year. *These are not rankings, events are in no particular order.

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#1

OHIO STATEHOUSE HOLIDAY FESTIVAL & TREE LIGHTING

Attend the Ohio Statehouse Tree Lighting and Holiday Festival from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at Capitol Square downtown. This free festival features Santa and Mrs. Claus, other historical characters and modern dignitaries. It also Includes the lighting of the historically-decorated Statehouse tree. →

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#4

SHORT NORTH HOLIDAY HOP

The biggest Gallery Hop of the year will feature a Holiday Hop PopUp Shop craft fair at the Garden Theater. Outdoor performers and artists abound on the streets from noon to 9 p.m. on Dec. 5. Grab a drink, see new exhibitions in the Short North’s galleries and vote for your favorite window display.

#5

DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS Held Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 19 at Ohio Village (located at the Ohio History Center) is the annual Dickens of a Christmas.

This interactive event celebrates the Christmases of holidays passed. Advance registration is required and can be purchased at ohiohistoryconnection.org. →

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WINTERFEST

#2

Columbus Recreation and Parks Department celebrates its 4th WinterFest, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Dec. 4, at Bicentennial Park.

It will feature live music, seasonal craft beer, cocktails and some of Columbus’ favorite food trucks.

#3

DISCOVERY DISTRICT TROLLEY HOP

The 8th annual Discovery District Trolley Hop promises to be fun for the whole family, with free trolley rides to various merchants and cultural institutions located in the eastern part of downtown. This year’s hop starts at the Columbus Metropolitan Library at 96 S. Grant Ave., or at Kelton House Museum & Garden at 586 E. Town St. Trolley pick-up runs from 12 to 4 p.m. on Dec. 4. Most stops will include activities for kids.

Celebrating A Dickens of a Christmas ↑ Photo Courtesy of Ohio History Connection

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#6

FRANKLIN PARK CONSERVATORY

The city’s conservatory offers several opportunities for holiday fun, including Breakfast with Santa, Holiday Blooms, Conservatory Aglow and its annual Gingerbread House Competition and display.

Holiday Blooms and Conservatory Aglow are open through Jan. 9, and tickets are on sale now.

WILDLIGHTS

#7

The Conservatory Aglow's lit tunnel ↑

Photo Courtesy of Franklin Park Conservatory

THE COLUMBUS ZOO The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s top-notch annual light display is open daily at 5 p.m. until the zoo closes, through Jan. 2.

#8

EASTON HOLIDAY EVENTS

Easton is lit up beautifully for the holiday season, and offers visitors more opportunities for seasonal fun.

Don’t miss The Christmas Tree Show, a custom light show on their 56-foot Christmas tree, starting at dusk daily and taking place multiple times each night. Horse-drawn carriage rides are a fun and romantic way to see the area’s fantastic light display.

They cost $10 per person, cash only. Children under 15 ride free with a paying adult. Easton also offers visits with Santa, a mailbox for letters to the North Pole and holiday entertainment throughout the season.

Visit eastontowncenter.com for information.

Family enjoying the Wildlights and s'mores ↑

Photo Courtesy of The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

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Columbus says goodbye to the old and hello to the new. Here is how to celebrate in the city.

By Jack McLaughlin

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HERE'S TO YOU While New Year’s Eve celebrations this year are in a bit of a strange in-between—we have a lot more options than we did in 2020, but COVID remains a limiting factor—we still have you covered, Columbus.

We’ve compiled a list of events sure to provide a night you won’t soon forget. From train rides and fireworks to late-night piano bar parties, let’s welcome 2022 with a bang. *These are not rankings, events are in no particular order.

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Live concert at The Bluestone ↓ Photo Courtesy of The Bluestone

#1

THE BLUESTONE This former 19th-century church turned music venue has a history of putting on a fantastic New Year’s celebration, and things are no different this year. The Discovery District spot is hosting the jazzy and electro-influenced rock group Papadosio for a musical, light-filled evening that runs until 2 a.m.

#2

HOCKING VALLEY SCENIC RAILWAY

For a fun change just of pace, the greater Hocking Hills area is calling. Barely over an hour from downtown Columbus, this historic railroad whisks passengers away on a two-hour nighttime train ride (trains depart the Nelsonville station at 10:30 p.m.) that even includes fireworks at the stroke of midnight.

While this is a family-friendly event, celebrants can also opt for wine and cheese service, if they choose.→

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#3

THE RENAISSANCE HOTEL This Columbus hotel regularly hosts some sizable New Year’s Eve bashes, and 2021 marks a true return to form. The Renaissance will feature a party spread across three separate event rooms, complete with a DJ and live band. Tickets are already on sale, and a cheaper, alcoholfree option is available this year for guests who won’t be imbibing.

#4

HOWL AT THE MOON There are bar parties, and then there are piano bar parties. The Short North-based Howl at the Moon held its grand opening last month, and they’re keeping the momentum going with a high-energy New Year’s bash as well. With multiple different packages to choose from, the event will include an open bar, gourmet buffet, and plenty of live piano music.

#5

OUTERBELT BREWING & TAPROOM If you prefer beer to champagne, Outerbelt’s New Year’s Eve celebration might be right for you.

This spacious brewery and taproom— located just over 20 miles southeast of downtown Columbus—is hosting a 21-plus event that features over $2,000 in door prizes, a DJ, photo booth, hor d'oeuvres, and a wide variety of quality craft beer.

Preformance at Howl at the Moon ↑ Photo Courtesy of Howl at the Moon

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