Columbus diner, motel are among the best in the country according to ‘USA Today’

A storied Columbus diners and a new school, retro-leaning motel have been tapped as some of the best in the country, according to USA Today.

Both Tommy’s Diner and the South Wind Motel appeared on separate best-of lists in the 2025 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. 

Every year, USA Today generates a list of 20 finalists in each category. Readers then vote on their favorites, and the top 10–in order of most to least votes–are then aknowledged. 

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Tommy’s landed in 6th place in the Best Roadside Diner category. Similarly, Southwind Motel took 6th place in the Best Roadside Motel category.

Columbus has multiple other eateries, attractions and more that are currently being voted on, meaning you can still help determine the winners. This includes Lion Cub’s Cookies, ZipZone Outdoor Adventures and many more.

Want to read more? Check out our print publication, (614) Magazine. Learn where you can find a free copy of our new February issue here!

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