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Here are the most unique bars in Columbus, according to ‘Yelp’

Here are the most unique bars in Columbus, according to ‘Yelp’

Sav McKee

What’s considered “unique” is of course, very subjective. My definition of what makes a bar “unique” is probably entirely different than yours! Is it somewhere with cocktails made with rare ingredients? Unusual decor? A place with an extraordinary history?

Fortunately, Yelp scoured through Central Ohio bar ratings and reviews and created their own “Top 10 Best Unique Bars in Columbus” list for September of 2023.

I was ecstatic to see some of my own local haunts on this list. Did your own favorite, one-of-a-kind spot make it in the Top 10?

#10. Lawbird
Address: 740 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206

A peanut butter & jelly flavored cocktail? Gourmet hotdogs and vegan dawgs on Wednesday nights? Count me in. I personally love their Mojo Risin, which tastes like a savory, spicy, pickled tomatillo margarita. Lawbird truly does have it all – down to the perfect playlist and funky glasses of orange wine. 

#9. Otherworld
Address: 5819 Chantry Dr, Columbus, OH 43232

This immersive, interactive experience literally takes you to another world. The full cocktail bar helps with that, too. 

#8. The Citizens Trust
Address: 11 W Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215

Photo via Citizen’s Instagram

During the holidays, this bar inside of an old bank turns into a Winter Wonderland, called Miracle Pop-up, with snow globes, Santa themed drinks, and Christmas music. In all of the other seasons, it’s a cozy, dimly lit spot with gorgeous cocktails garnished with fresh flora and herbs. It’s perfect for a date night. The bathrooms are haunted, in my own personal experience…so, beware.

#7. The Beeline
Address: 3989 Merchants Row, Columbus, OH 43219

This 3,000 square foot bar is in the heart of Easton Town Center, featuring high-quality cocktails made with all local ingredients in a sophisticated setting.

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#6. Huli Huli Tiki Lounge
Address: 26 W Olentangy St, Powell, OH 43065

Photo via Huli Huli’s Instagram

Come for the tiki drinks, stay for the tiki vibes. Their tropical drinks are served in parrot glasses, tiki mugs, and shark-head cups, and garnished with beautiful flowers and fresh fruit. They also have a killer food menu, featuring Polynesian-inspired fare, like Lobster Rolls and Bang Bang Broccoli. A night out here is basically the same thing as taking a vacation.

#5. Ginger Rabbit Jazz Lounge
Address: 17 Buttles Ave, Columbus, OH 43215

Photo via Ginger Rabbit’s Instagram
Photo via Ginger Rabbit’s Instagram

Take the Persian carpet-lined steps down to this underground speakeasy bar, and you’re transported to a 1950’s jazz lounge. Martinis and pink velvet chairs and all. Ginger Rabbit features live jazz music most of the time, and if there’s not a show, they play jazz on vinyl, too. 

#4. Antiques on High
Address: 714 S High St, Columbus, OH 43206

Photo via Antique’s Instagram
Photo via Antique’s Instagram

I love that there’s not one, but two fireplaces in this Brewery District bar. The black sofas, dark wood accents, live plants, and globe lights above the bar exude a mid-century feel. Their snack vending machine in the back is a nice, touch too.

#3. Palma’s Tropical Escape
Address: 46 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

This beach-themed bar, restaurant, and nightclub features a living plant wall and neon signs. After a burrito and paella meal, stay for the live DJ set, dancing, and tropical cocktails. 

#2. The Cave Bar & Lounge
Address: 122 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215

This bar, appropriately named, is underneath the tapas restaurant, Sidebar Columbus. They consider themselves and upscale lounge and cocktail bar that offers lively South American DJ sets.

#1. Sacred Palm 
Address: 457 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Photo via Sacred Palm’s Instagram
Photo via Sacred Palm’s Instagram

“Welcome to the Sacred Palm, Columbus’ premier tiki lounge and craft cocktail bar hidden below the busy streets of the Short North. Tucked somewhere below Mikey’s Late Night Slice at 457 N. High St., come and surrender your cares to the world of classic, rum-soaked tropical libations,” says their website.

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