The Weekender: Loaded Nachos
Columbus is a college town, and we have high standards when it comes to game day foods. Walk into any restaurant or bar, and there is a high likelihood they serve a loaded plate of solid nachos. These are three of my favorite spots to grab this shareable appetizer – each with its own spin.
Short North Pint House elevates the way Columbus does nachos by spiffing up this cheap eat with expensive beef. Pint House’s Short Rib Nachos are indulgent and satisfying, blanketing thick-cut corn tortilla chips with beer cheese, black bean corn salsa, tomatoes, jalapenos, scallions, and sour cream. The crowning touch is a mound of pulled short rib that is tender and quickly scooped up with each chip. The Short Rib Nachos have great flavor, and the scallions and sour cream beautifully balance each bite, cutting through the heaviness of the beer cheese and short rib. This tower of nachos is worthy of a fancy date night.
Must have dessert – Peanut Butter Stuffed Cookie
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
Stadium, located in Gahanna, is the culinary vision of Darnell “SuperChef” Ferguson. Anyone in the #614 who has watched an episode of “Guy’s Grocery Games” has probably seen Ferguson’s talent in action. Stadium has cornered the market on wacky game-day food (24 Karat Gold Trophy Wings), and their All-Star Nachos tackle the monotony with Asian flare. Stadium’s nachos start with crispy wontons deep-fried and capped with shredded chicken, sweet chili queso, chipotle pico, and Asian guacamole. This is a flavor-packed bite full of unexpected hints from the sweet chili and chipotle that navigate the harmonious relationship of sweet and spicy.
Dos Hermanos has multiple locations, including both North Markets and a semi-famous food truck that gets around town. Hermanos piles up a classic boat of nachos layering corn tortilla chips, vibrant yellow nacho cheese, house-made salsa, jalapenos, cilantro, and onion. Layer on one of their mouthwatering proteins (go for the carnitas!), and you have a heaping tower that is guaranteed to fulfill a craving. These nachos are as advertised, and everything you expect from this Americanized favorite.
Drink Order – Mexican Coke
If you like this, read: The Weekender: Gameday Wings
BROUGHT TO YOU BY
