Columbus

Summer means open-air dining in the courtyard; winter means drinks in front of a blazing fire in the cocktail lounge. — Fodor's

Accordion players serenade and servers are decked out in Bavarian costumes at this popular two-level, beer hall–style restaurant in an 1880 brick building in German Village. — Fodor's

This Mitchell's Steakhouse doesn't have the elegance of the original, but they share the high-quality beef and vast wine lists. — Gayot

All dogs are served on a steamed poppy seed bun; dog options run the gamut from a bacon-wrapped, all-beef dog to a veggie version. Vegan and gluten-free choices also abound. — Gayot

A popular German Village hangout since 1938, this modest bar and eatery is famous for its hamburgers---particularly the Thurmanator, the tasty (and enormous) 12-ounce burger. — Gayot

The “ultimate dining experience” agree fans of this Arena District Italian offering “awesome” contemporary renditions of pasta, fish and meat dishes. — Zagat

Inventive fare with classic elements draws locals to this Grandview Heights Italian where a simple white-tablecloth setting and “friendly”, “thoughtful” staff add to the charm. — Zagat

Try not to let this restaurant's strip-mall location keep you away. Updated Italian cuisine made fresh-to-order is the theme in this space. — Gayot

These upscale riffs on '50s diners are local favorites for their “updated” “twists” on American classics (the meatloaf could make “grandma jealous”). — Zagat

Fans say “the lion still roars” at this long-standing Northwest Side Chinese that's not afraid to get “spicy” with its “wonderful” Hunan, Thai and Sichuan delights. — Zagat

Off the beaten path, Basi Italia knows how to please in-the-know diners. — Gayot

“It's especially enjoyable to have a window seat at night and enjoy the view” at this “sophisticated” Easton seafood specialist where the “consistently excellent” fare is served. — Zagat

“Lively, loud” and “full of life” is how fans describe this Grandview Italian bistro/wine bar from the owners of Figlio, serving a “to-die-for” menu of pizza, small plates, and large plates. — Zagat

“Upscale but not pretentious” options like “designer” brick-oven pizzas and “outstanding” Italian staples distinguish these trattoria favorites. — Zagat

This grand Bexley institution with wood paneling and leather booths serves filet mignon, ribeye steak, porterhouse, and other chops and ribs. — Fodor's

The “masterful” farm-to-table New American fare whipped up at this daytime-only German Villager has “taken the city by storm”. — Zagat

In a mid-1800s building in German Village, this somewhat boisterous bistro has high ceilings, big windows, and walls covered with artwork. — Fodor's

“Unique” Asian fusion fare, “tasty” drinks and a “bright”, “funky” setting decked out with “interesting” art attract fans to this trendy Short North “treasure”. — Zagat

Big portions of North Carolina–style barbecue or ribs dressed with corn, baked beans, and other traditional fixings. — Fodor's

Located in the shadows of the Nationwide Arena, this historic brewery-restaurant is an ideal spot to grab a beer and a bite before the game. — Gayot