Columbus Cocktails: Our Favorite Spots for Sipping Spirits

Columbus is a haven for hand-crafted cocktails. With a solid selection of local distilleries like Watershed, High Bank and Middle West Spirits, it’s no secret that this city is passionate about its sips. Combine that with some of the most talented mixologists in the country and the results are mouth-watering.

Columbus is brimming with fantastic destinations for sipping spirits, but here are some of our favorites for your next night out.

Higher Grounds, Antiques on High

Higher Grounds, Antiques on High

Antiques on High

Located in the Brewery District, Seventh Son’s sister brewery is serving up sour beers and an impressive cocktail list. Their collaboration with Mission Coffee Co. (another local gem) Higher Grounds just might be my favorite cocktail in Columbus. Featuring Middle West Vodka, Fernet Branca, Branca Menta & Mission Nitro Coffee. I also highly recommend the Doppelganger. Visit their website, here.

Must Try: Higher Grounds

VASO Rooftop Lounge

No place says #DoItForTheGram more than a trip to VASO. Located on top of the AC Marriot Hotel in Dublin, VASO’s staff NEVER MISSES on their seasonal menus. Not to mention the amazing view. Sip inside a snow globe (well, almost) by reserving one of their igloos available seasonally.

Must Try - The Signature Gin & Tonic

Goodale Station

When it comes to my cocktails, the prettier the better. That’s what you’ll find at Goodale Station. Paired with 5-Star Service and AMAZING tapas, this place is a go-to for special occasions of any kind. Try the Fancy Nancy: a tall yellow gin cocktail topped with a sprig of baby’s breath and don’t forget to order the Tuna Tartare.

Must Try: The Fancy Nancy

CAFE ISTANBUL

Cafe Istanbul is nestled into a little alcove on the banks of the Scioto River in Dublin. Be sure to sit on the spacious patio (complete with a retractable roof) but don’t worry - you can roll all the windows down inside, too! To go along with their tasty Turkish bites, Cafe Istanbul also boasts a world-class cocktail menu and gorgeous bar area.

Must Try: 614 Columbus

LUMIN SKY BAR + Kitchen

Have you ever walked into a place and immediately felt at home? Lumin Sky Bar is Columbus’ newest rooftop perched atop the AC Marriott just south of the Arena District. Their cocktail menu rotates seasonally but you can always find creative takes on basic drinks to wow you and your guests. This is one of my favorite places to meet up with friends or teammates after work!

Must Try: Negroni Sbagliato

Columbus has officially made me a “cocktail girl” and I can’t wait to see new concepts come to life this year.

xo,

Meg