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21
Where to Go for Great Food Fast Around Cincinnati
Cincinnati is an amazing place to call home, thanks in part to the city's wonderfully unique arts, entertainment, sports, and culture. Whether you've enjoyed a morning at the Duke Energy Children's Museum, spent the afternoon at The Great American Ball Park, or experienced a stunning performance at the Aronoff Center for the Arts, you'll have surely worked up an appetite for great quick-service eats that aren't from the traditional fast-food chains. Satisfy your hometown hunger at one of these local Queen City restaurants.
Forty Thieves Gang
1538 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Believe it or not, there's one place in the Midwest where you can get the best Mid-East street food — Forty Thieves Gang. Located in the heart of Over-the-Rhine, Forty Thieves Gang brings Arabian and Israeli dishes like shawarma and falafel to Cincy. Choose between grilled chicken, beef shawarma, and falafel on a sandwich, over hummus, or over couscous. Add a side of soup, Za'atar fries, or roasted beets and don't forget to ask for a little bit of their delicious Habibi sauce.
Poke Hut
1509 Race St. Unit #104, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Another delicious destination in OTR, Poke Hut serves up fast-casual Hawaiian-Asian fusion using fresh, real ingredients. Try a signature chef-inspired poke bowl like the Honolulu with veggies and seaweed salad or the Luau with BBQ pork and soy-marinated egg. You can also build your own bowl with a modern Midwest twist with a variety of rice, greens, noodles, raw fish, cooked meats, toppings, and sauces. Top it off with a tasty customized bubble tea, and your day will be propelled forward like a perfect North Shore swell.
Tickle Pickle
4176 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
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At Tickle Pickle in NorthSide, they have one rule to live by: Life's short, lick the bowl! This music-themed gourmet burger and shake shack has a rocking menu full of meat and vegan options. Those craving a traditional burger should consider the Meatallica, the Breadzepplin, or the Nom Petty. Vegan options include the Buns N Roses burger, When Buns Cry sandwich, and Coney Bennet vegan dog. Kids can also rock out with their own menu items like the Melton John Jr., Fleetwood Mac N Cheese, or Bun Jovi. The Oreo Speedwagon, Flan Halen, James Brownie, and Goobie-Brother shakes area available as both dairy and vegan options, giving meat-eaters and those with diet restrictions the chance to turn their fast-casual dining experience up to 11.
Delwood
3204 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
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Introducing amazing Latin American flavors to Cincinnati, Delwood puts their own spin on favorite classics. Bring the family, and even your four-legged friend, in for a sharable plate of tostones, yuca fries, and shishito peppers before digging into a classic burger, fried chicken sandwich, or a fresh chopped salad. As huge soccer fans, Delwood is the perfect place to root for FC Cincinnati while enjoying craft cocktails and great food.
Chicago Gyros and Dogs
201 W. McMillan St., Cincinnati, OH 45219
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Greek food and Chicago-style cuisine converge at Chicago Gyros and Dogs. For over 35 years, Chicago Gyros and Dogs has delivered an extensive menu of fantastic Mediterranean and Midwest meals. From a traditional falafel pita and gyro to Chicago Style hot dogs and Cincy chili cheese dogs, there are enough mouth-watering options to satisfy your craving for greasy goodness.
Himalaya Restaurant
7810 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45239
Himalaya Restaurant believes that the best way to make your day better is with traditional foods from Nepal, India, and Bhutan. Take your taste buds on a journey through South Asia as you enjoy tandoori, shorba, aloo matar, vindaloo, and sukuti prepared with lamb, chicken, salmon, beef, or served as vegetarian options. Just short of crossing the Himalayas on foot, Himalaya Restaurant is the best place to savor the diversity of the region.
Mazunte
611 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45227
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Take-out and tacos go hand-in-hand which is why Mazunte makes it easy to enjoy a night out in Swine City without having to wait in line for dinner. As you head to a Bearcats or Cyclones game, grab some Mexican munchies to go at Mazunte Centro. Tacos, tostadas, tortas, and tlayudas are all perfect hand-held treats perfect for strolling the streets. Many of their items include gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, and while you can't take a tequila shot to-go, you can slide into a booth and enjoy all of the margaritas and cervezas you want before you hit the town.
Waggle
3440 Burnet Ave. Suite 100, Cincinnati, OH 45229
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Have you heard the buzz about Cincinnati's newest breakfast spot? From the owners of the Sleepy Bee Café comes Waggle Breakfast and Bowls. These busy bees forage for seasonal, sustainable local ingredients to use in their made-to-order dishes. Try their made-from-scratch pancakes and grain bowls for breakfast or stop by for a fresh salad bowl during lunchtime. Build your own bowl by choosing a base of egg, tofu, greens, or quinoa, add your favorite protein, mix some veggies in, blend it with cheese, throw a little sauce in, and top it with avocado or kimchi for a healthy meal that'll get your morning buzzing.
CityBird
1344 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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For a quick chicken tender fix, there's none better in Cincinnati than CityBird. Cage-free, all-natural chicken made to order, CityBird offers the tenderest of chicken tenders with made-from-scratch sauces that are too tasty to believe. While most add a side of City Sauce, we suggest either the sweet Lemon Thyme Ranch, Honey Dijon, or Thai Chili BBW. If you're hoping to turn up the heat on flavor, definitely order the Hot Honey or Jalapeno Hot sauces. Trust us, eat at CityBird once, and you'll never choose chicken from another fast-food chain again.
Mad Mike's
6900 Cheviot Road, Cincinnati, OH 45247
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Quality over quantity is what makes Mad Mike's a Cincinnati favorite. All meat is 100 percent black Angus beef, cut and prepared on-site. You won't pay an arm and a leg for their high-quality burgers either—nearly every gourmet burger and chicken sandwich are less than seven dollars. This includes the Rockefeller with blue cheese and beer-battered onion rings, the Pride of Zeus with gyro meat and tzatziki, and the What The Cuck chicken sandwich with avocado slices and cilantro mayo. Make sure you order your fries "MAD" style with nacho cheese and grilled onions.
Wild Mike's
4498 Harrison Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45211
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Let your taste buds run wild at Wild Mike's. An American eatery offering the classic grub that hits the spot every time. Mozzarella sticks, wild nachos, and potato skins set the stage for as many wings as you want. Order between five and fifty wings, tossed in your favorite flavor and served at your preferred level of hotness. If mild, medium, and hot are too tame for you, we dare you to try their Xtra Hot! or Stupid Hot! temperatures. With other favorites like burgers, hoagies, chicken sandwiches on the menu, Wild Mike's never disappoints.
Local Food Fast
Where is your favorite Cincinnati eatery to chow down at? Let us know in the comments!
19
Cleveland: Find Your Om at These Yoga Studios
Did you know the history of yoga in the United States dates back to the close of the 19th century? Over time, yoga has grown from a mystical program associated with the hippie movement and New Age philosophy, to a popular fitness style practiced by more than 36 million Americans of all ages.
With a number of benefits ranging from heart health and pain relief to stress reduction and better sleep, yoga could be considered a nearly perfect form of exercise. Improve fitness and gain inner peace with yoga instruction at these serene but challenging studios in the Cleveland area.
Yoga Roots
3459 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights 44118
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Has an attack of cold feet kept you from trying a yoga class? Problem solved—literally—at Yoga Roots. Restorative yoga classes, designed to provide a calming interval day between more vigorous sessions, are held in a room with heated floors to help you relax. Owners Kim and Scott Curtis, whose own kids make frequent appearances around the studio, founded Yoga Roots to help others in the community discover the same benefits they've received from practicing yoga. New students get a week of unlimited classes for only $20, and members may bring a friend along for one free session. Check the calendar for special events such as "Yoga and Music" and "Candlelight Meditation."
Yoga Strong
1104 Prospect Ave. E., Cleveland 44115
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Weights aren't the only way to build strength and power. Yoga Strong specializes in Vinyasa style, sometimes referred to as power yoga. Poses are synchronized with deliberate breathing and linked with graceful transitions, resulting in a flow that enhances physical and spiritual fitness. Focus on toning and sculpting at Barre Fly, a studio adjacent to Yoga Strong offering barre and aerial yoga classes. Explore other aspects of the yoga lifestyle at weekend workshops such as Blacklight Yoga, Bungee Barre, and Inversions. Attend any class as a drop-in for just $8 (cash only).
Bikram Yoga
4850 SOM Center Road, Moreland Hills 44022
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The term "yoga" encompasses a variety of styles, which allows everyone to find a form that suits them. Bikram Yoga is a precise, deliberate form consisting of 26 poses performed in a specific sequence over a 90-minute period. Each pose focuses on a particular part of the body with a goal to promote synergy of body and mind working as one. Studios are heated to loosen tight muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce risk of injury. Try one month of unlimited classes at Bikram Yoga for $49.
Chagrin Yoga
524 E. Washington St., Chagrin Falls 44022
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Bikram-style is also featured at Chagrin Yoga, which has been serving the Cleveland area since 2009. In 2015, the studio underwent a total renovation, incorporating state-of-the-art elements such as recycled rubber/vinyl flooring and a Reznor high-heat and humidity system. While Bikram is the main event at Chagrin Yoga, they keep it lively with workshops on other related topics such as Yoga Nidra, a sleep-based form of meditation, and Reiki healing. For all-over wellness, sign up for a massage, Ayurveda, or reflexology session. Newcomers can choose between introductory specials of unlimited classes at $30 for 14 days or $59 for 30 days.
Loving Hands Yoga and Reiki
2959 Hampshire Road, Cleveland Heights 44118
You'll feel right at home in more ways than one at Loving Hands Yoga and Reiki. The studio is located in a charming Craftsman bungalow that was included in the 2011 Cleveland Heights Home Heritage Tour. Owner/instructor Judith Eugene has trained students ranging from age 3 to 93, so you can feel comfortable with her regardless of age or fitness level. Judith is also a trained Reiki Master who offers this healing and stress reduction service to both animals and their humans. Yoga classes are scheduled in quarterly sessions, but you can drop in for a test run before enrolling. If you have allergies, please note that Loving Hands is home to two adorable studio kitties.
Pink Lotus Yoga
18103 Detroit Ave., Lakewood 44107
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At Pink Lotus Yoga, the family that takes yoga together stays fit together. Preteen and teen classes blend yoga instruction with games, music, and props to introduce kids to the benefits of yoga in a playful, non-competitive way. Rather than specialize in one form, Pink Lotus offers classes in several different styles and intriguing variations such as Yindalini, a blend of Indian and Chinese yoga, and Yang, which draws on martial arts techniques. During the last two years, Pink Lotus has co-sponsored a series of outdoor yoga sessions at various parks around Lakewood.
Vision Yoga & Wellness
1861 W. 25th St., Cleveland 44113
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Are you a Boomer living in a Millennial world? Vision Yoga & Wellness, located in the heart of Cleveland's trendy Ohio City neighborhood, welcomes you to Boomer Yoga. Traditional Hatha yoga poses are held for longer amounts of time, resulting in a slower pace and greater body awareness. Boomer Yoga is one of the drop-in Community classes for just $5. Students of any age will appreciate Vision Yoga's stress- and pain-reducing services, including massage, Reiki and craniosacrial therapy, which involves light touching of the skull and sacrum. In 2016, Vision Yoga expanded to Vision Underground, a second location in the basement of St. John's Episcopal Church. The additional studio allows Vision Yoga to better accommodate the ever-growing student base and offer a wider range of services.
Cleveland Yoga
2026 Murray Hill Road, Room 210, Cleveland 44106
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While yoga's roots reach back thousands of years, its dynamic nature makes it fresh and relevant today. Cleveland Yoga is an affiliate of Baptiste Yoga, a relatively modern form originating in 1940. Baptiste is a power Vinyasa style performed in a room heated to 90 degrees to stimulate circulation and keep muscles flexible. Poses, meditation, and inquiry, which is self-transformation, are the three main elements of Baptiste Yoga. The Little Italy studio is also home to the Cleveland Yoga Run Club, which meets at 8:45 a.m. each Sunday for a 45-minute run followed by a 75-minute Hot Power class.
CoreSIX Yoga
24350 Center Ridge Road, Westlake 44145
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Yoga is about personal development, but its group format lets you become part of a community. CoreSIX Yoga has a mission to promote that sense of community by welcoming anyone interested in learning and making their classes accessible to all. On Saturdays, CoreSIX hosts a Powerful Flow yoga class followed by Happy Hour. Participants bring a beverage of choice and light snack to enjoy as they spend time socializing in a relaxed atmosphere.
Oasis Yoga + Wellness
33180 Station St., Solon 44139
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Yoga meets the 21st century at Oasis Yoga + Wellness. In addition to an extensive selection of Vinyasa Flow classes, Oasis has TRX, a strength training program using two adjustable nylon straps and your own bodyweight. Wellness services include infrared sauna and Samadhi float tank to boost the immune system, release toxins, and relieve pain and stress. Oasis has an introductory special of $49 for one month of unlimited classes, and memberships include discounts on wellness services, workshops, and private yoga instruction.
Namaste
Do you have a favorite yoga studio to add to the list? Share it with us!
14
10 Columbus Fine Dining Destinations You Have to Try
Columbus is a remarkable city. The capital of Ohio is home to an engaging and entertaining cultural scene, perhaps best demonstrated by the diversity found in the city's many restaurants, bistros, cafés, and eateries. If you appreciate an exquisitely prepared meal featuring timeless cooking traditions, fresh ingredients, and burgeoning culinary trends, you will surely enjoy an evening at one of these fine dining destinations around the city.
Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse
89 E. Nationwide Blvd., Columbus, OH
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Named the Best New Restaurant in Columbus, Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse delivers the Jeff Ruby Experience—a total dining experience that is recognized across the nation by celebrities, travelers, major media publications, and Ohio residents. Begin your Jeff Ruby Experience with a drink from their list of fine libations before ordering an appetizer from their raw bar. Order a Jeff Ruby Premium Handcrafted Filet Mignon cooked to perfection or sample their delicious rolls from the sushi menu. Finish the meal with a delectable dessert of Buckeye Cake or Lemon Torte, order an after-dinner drink, and relax with a Jeff Ruby Boss hand-rolled cigar.
Third & Hollywood
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How do you define your fine dining experience? At Third & Hollywood, they believe that the highest quality meats, freshest seafood, and ingredients grown on local farms are three necessary elements for a truly fine dining experience. Peruse their menus and you'll discover a wealth of flavor enhanced by local farms and growers who commit to sustainable and ethical practices. Whole grilled artichokes make a wonderful starter before your fresh Hollywood Salad and Righteous Pork Chop are ready to be served. Their daily specials include House-Made Gnocchi on Sunday, Marinated Hanger Steak on Tuesdays, and a scrumptious Zin-Braised Short Rib plate on Thursdays. End your dinner with a sharable dessert of Chocolate Pot de Crème, Strawberry Shortcake, or a Pecan Pie Sunday.
Barcelona
263 E. Whittier St., Columbus, OH
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Discover Old World European charm fused with metropolitan chic at Barcelona. Immerse yourself in reflections of Spain within the amazing atmosphere inside and cozy secret garden on their patio. As one of the premier restaurants in Columbus, Barcelona's constantly rotating menu uses only the best ingredients available to present you with a meal you'll always remember. May we suggest the Chef's Tasting Menu, a delightful gathering of Chile Rellenos, Gazpacho de Pepino, Ala de Sakte, and Natilla? You could also order tapas or paellas from their dinner menu to transport yourself to a world of Spanish flavor.
M at Miranova
2 Miranova Place, Columbus, OH
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You can find legendary four-diamond dining at M at Miranova. Recently redesigned, their award-winning menu is loaded with innovative American dishes such as Colorado Lamb, Skuna Bay Salmon, Pork Belly, and Roasted Chicken. Regardless of which culinary delight you choose, their extensive wine list features bottles from Italy, New Zealand, Spain, France, Germany, California, and the Pacific Northwest. An additional list of signature and classic cocktails pair well with all of the rolls on their sushi menu. Make a reservation for dinner at M at Miranova and try their latest chef-driven creations!
Lindey's
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Lindey's is a Columbus landmark that has been a favorite dining destination for nearly half of a century and continues to rank among the top 10 restaurants in the city. Though their dinner menu is tasty from top to bottom, their specialties include their Lamb, Rotisserie Half Chicken, and Duroc Pork dishes. Lindey's also has a gluten-free menu and gluten-dessert menu, both of which are filled with dozens of options for guests with dietary sensitivities. Their unmatched food experience even includes a kid's menu so the whole family can enjoy one of the best fine dining experiences in Columbus.
The Refectory Restaurant and Bistro
1092 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH
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A historic landmark, an elegant dining experience, and the only central Ohio restaurant designated as Animal Welfare Approved, The Refectory is exactly what you desire in a fine dining destination. With a world-class wine cellar, classic French cuisine, and exceptional contemporary American culinary plates, this restaurant has been a top choice for Columbus diners since 1976. In celebration of their 43rd year, the Tribute to 1976 three-course menu was created to thank the dining public of Columbus for decades of support. Featuring soups, French-style entrees, and fantastic desserts, this hand-picked selection is the perfect introduction to The Refectory's amazing offerings.
G. Michael's Bistro & Bar
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A unique dining experience unlike any other in Columbus, G. Michael's Bistro & Bar is a highlight of the German Village restaurant scene. With menus that change by the season, you can sample the freshest ingredients sourced from many local farms throughout Ohio. Visit them every Monday for a special Prix Fixe menu. This three-course meal features new creations from the chef every week, allowing you the opportunity to sample new and exciting plates that may become instant favorites!
Basi Italia
811 Highland St., Columbus, OH
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Classic Italian dishes are among the most popular choices at fine dining establishments and casual eateries alike. At Basi Italia in Victorian Village, they understand that clean, simple Italian meals with innovative twists can present diners with a meal that makes you feel as if you're sitting in a cozy kitchen in the Italian countryside. Baked Ricotta Gnocchi, Eggplant Parmesan, and Rigatoni Salumeria are classic choices that rival their Shrimp Pomodoro, Prosciutto Wrapped Scallops, and Grilled Chicken Pesto. Enjoy a glass of sangria during your meal and order a cannoli that will leave a lingering taste of Italia on your lips.
Final Cut Steak and Seafood at Hollywood Casino
200 Georgesville Road, Columbus, OH
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Rated a 4-Star Award Winner by Forbes Travel Guide, Final Cut Steak and Seafood inside the Hollywood Casino strives to define fine dining in Columbus. Every cut of their Mid-Western Prime Beef is hand-selected and naturally aged in their restaurant. Their seafood selection is just as remarkable as their beef, with Fresh Wild Salmon and Cold-Water Lobster topping their list of entrees. Rich side dishes such as Truffle Mac and Cheese and White Cream Corn help to create a hearty plate that fills your stomach and widens your smile. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, Final Cut Steak and Seafood is the best place to end a long week of work and start the weekend off on the right foot.
Veritas
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Veritas may be new to Columbus, but it developed an amazing reputation in Delaware, Ohio, before moving to the capital city in 2018. Known as the original tasting menu dining experience in the city, their dishes blend classic techniques with contemporary trends to produce plates that you won't find anywhere else. We implore you to try the phenomenal seven-course chef's tasting menu to taste everything Veritas has to offer. Reserve your table today and enlighten your palate like never before.
Cooked to Perfection
Living in Columbus connects us to some of the best fine dining destinations in the state. What's your favorite restaurant around Columbus?
12
Northeast Ohio: You Won't Be 'Board' at These Game Stores
Video games have grown from the nostalgic simplicity of Pong to the epic intricacy of Fortnite, generating $20 billion annually in the United States along. But with more than 5,000 new titles hitting the market recently, board games are enjoying a huge surge in popularity.
Whether you're looking for classics like Monopoly or checking out new games such as Ticket to Ride, you'll find something for everyone at these great game stores and cafés around Cleveland and beyond.
Tabletop Board Game Café
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If variety is the spice of life, Tabletop Board Game Café is as savory as it gets. With a library of nearly 1,000 games and a menu of upscale snacks and light meals, Tabletop is the pioneer of Cleveland's gaming community. Monthly events such as game clinics, mixers and trivia nights help you hone your skills while socializing with fellow game enthusiasts. Looking for a creative birthday party or shower theme? Tabletop's instructors will come to you with a customized assortment of games. Daily passes are $5, while a $25 membership includes five daily passes and a discounted rate of $3.50 afterward. Hours are 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. - 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Sunday.
The Malted Meeple
53 Milford Drive, Hudson 44236
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The Malted Meeple sounds like a cool title for a game, but it's the next best thing: a lively hangout where family and friends can gather for some fun competition. During game time, grown-ups can enjoy wine, craft beer, or a creative theme drink such as Angry Fireball or Elektra's Elixir. Kids get their own beverage treats like Cherry Chimera, a cheesecake-flavored latte, or the appropriately-named Princess Leia cinnamon roll milkshake. Take game-playing to the next level in one of Malted Meeple's interactive escape rooms. Daily game fees are $5 per person, and annual individual or family memberships are available. Malted Meeple is open 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Friday, and noon - 2 a.m. Saturday.
Recess Games
26636 Brookpark Road Ext., North Olmsted 44070
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Remember when you were a kid and recess was your favorite part of the day? Experience that same sense of joy at Recess Games. Shop from the wide selection of board games in stock and try before you buy with a test run in the gaming area. Whether you want to explore new game options or network with like-minded fans, Recess Games has a nearly daily schedule of Pokemon Weekly League, Pinochle Wednesdays, and other group events. Hours at Recess Games are 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.
Immortals Inc.
20545 Center Ridge Road, Suite LL38, Rocky River 44116
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You know the staff members at Immortals Inc. are passionate about their work when their bios are written as game descriptions. Their goal is to provide a clean, family-friendly store that's equally accessible to newbies and veteran gamers. Meet family and friends in Rusty Dragon Inn, a private gaming room set off from the retail space that accommodates up to 10 players. In addition to a 4' x 6' foot gaming table, amenities at Rusty Dragon Inn include a TV and refrigerator, gaming mats and a small private work area to "strategize." Fee is $25 for a four-hour block. Immortals Inc. is open from noon - 9 p.m. seven days a week.
Battlegrounds to Board Games
1314 Whipple Ave., NW, Canton 44708
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Today's board games have come a long way from oldies-but-goodies such as Sorry!, Battleship, and Life. Battlegrounds to Board Games specializes in sophisticated tabletop war and role-playing games as well as collectible card games like Pokémon and Yu-gi-oh! Indulge your competitive spirit by joining in on one of BG2BG's tournaments or leagues. Tuesdays are Board Game Night when you can bring your own or have free play on one from the house library. Hours are noon - 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, noon - midnight Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.
Empire Game Center
9258 Market Square Drive, Streetsboro 44241
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Magic: The Gathering is just over 25 years old, but's it's so inventive and influential that it was recently selected for induction into the National Toy Hall of Fame, alongside Matchbox Cars and coloring books. Empire Game Center specializes in Magic: The Gathering cards and play, with weekly booster drafts and games with various formats. Drop in to monthly Board Game Night for demos, specials, and open play with no charge. Store hours are 4 p.m. - 9 p.m. weekdays, with extended hours until midnight on Friday, and noon - 7 p.m. weekends.
Lakeshore Learning Store
27500 Chagrin Blvd., Beachwood 44122
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Want to sneak some education into your kids' game time? Lakeshore Learning Store stocks a variety of colorful and entertaining board games for kids up to age 11 that teach math and reading while building problem-solving and motor skills. Plan a "field trip" on Saturday between 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. for free weekly craft sessions. Hours at Lakeshore Learning are 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday.
Weird Realms
11508 Lorain Ave., Cleveland 44111
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Weird Realms bills itself as "Cleveland's Nerd Store," but you'll feel totally hip browsing their collection of sci-fi books, comics, and collectibles in between rounds of the latest and greatest board games. Get a sneak peek at the next big thing at their pre-release parties. Can't find the game you're looking for? Weird Realms will order it for you, and throw in a discount to boot. Hours are Monday, Thursday, and Friday from 1 p.m. - 8 p.m. and noon - 8 p.m. weekends.
Critical Hit Games
13433 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights 44118
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Nearly every day, Critical Hit Games has a post about new tabletop games arriving in their store. While the current business of selling games is extremely lucrative, Critical Hit has a policy of not marking up inventory above regular price. In fact, many items are sold at a discount. When you visit, be sure to check out the faithful reproduction of the TARDIS from Doctor Who that serves as the restroom. Critical Hit is open from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday and 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Your Move
What game keeps you playing for hours at a time? Tell us about it!
7
Go Vegan at These Restaurants Around Columbus
Veganism isn't just a food preference — it's a lifestyle! For many people around the Columbus area, adhering to a diet of clean, sustainable foods is a way of life made possible through a variety of places offering vegan options.
Thankfully, gone are the days of salads being the only vegan items on popular restaurant menus. Today, there is an exceptional number of vegan and vegan-friendly eateries scattered throughout Columbus. Let's dig into these healthy habits and check out twelve awesome vegan restaurants around The Arch City.
Northstar Café
4241 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
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Salads, burgers, pizza, burritos, bowls — there's a vegan item to satisfy your hunger at Northstar Café. Come in early for a healthy breakfast featuring housemade granola and breakfast potatoes. Northstar Café even has vegan options on their kid's menu! Bring your little ones in for a Northstar Burger or Little Buddah Bowl so they can eat healthy just like their parents! When it comes to accessible clean eating, Northstar Café tops the list for many Columbus vegans.
Oddfellows Liquor Bar
1038 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
While a liquor bar may not be your first thought for great vegan food, we encourage you to keep tabs on Oddfellows Liquor Bar. Every Monday, they feature a pop-up vegan restaurant with unbelievable pretzel bites, grilled cheeses, and chili. There's also an all-you-can-eat brunch complete with tofu scrambles and pancakes, among other vegan options.
Alchemy Café
1439 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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Wellness-inspired food in a fast-casual café, Alchemy Kitchen and their Alchemy Café mix up savory foods and sweet drinks for vegans and non-vegans alike. For brunch, enjoy breakfast tacos, Tumeric bagels, and avocado toasts. For lunch and dinner, barbeque jackfruit, basil portobello, salads, and toasts are among their great offerings. Stop by for a meal, or if you're pressed for time, hit up the Alchemy Café for a delicious smoothie.
Strongwater Food & Spirits
401 W. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215
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One difficult challenge with clean eating is that, while many restaurants offer vegan items, they're usually quite limited to salads and such. Strongwater Food & Spirits offers upscale dining with fantastic vegan options that rival their non-vegan counterparts. The Black Bean Burger, Jackfruit Cake, Black and Blue Salad, Golden Beet Salad, Soba Noodle Salad, Pub Fries, and Sautéed Green Beans are available for lunch and dinner. This East Franklin gem provides you with a nice night out without having to worry about a limited vegan menu.
Portia's Café
4428 Indianola Ave., Columbus, OH 43214
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Known as Columbus' best vegan restaurant, Portia's Café caters to a variety of dietary lifestyles. Absolutely no animal products are used in any of their food, and all foods are gluten-free, GMO-free, organic, and made with clean water. Portia's has one of the largest vegan menus we've ever seen — soups, salads, dips, starters, wraps, bowls, pizzadillas, quesadillas, desserts, and drinks offer you endless options. Say hello to your new favorite vegan destination!
Brassica
680 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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The word 'brassica' is a genus of plants such as Brussels sprout and cabbage. The place Brassica in Columbus is a family-owned restaurant that knows the best way to prepare these healthy veggies for your vegan-friendly appetite. Pick a housemade pita and fill it with organic chickpeas, hummus, veggies, or even brassica fries. Simple food using fresh ingredients from local growers means clean eating at its finest.
Paulie Gee's in the Short North
1195 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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Pizza is life, but if you live a vegan lifestyle, a good vegan pizza can be hard to come by. Thankfully, Paulie Gee's Short North serves up four pies full of awesome-sauce. Order a slice of Red, White, & Greenpeace with pickled red onion and post-over cashew milk or In Ricotta Da Vegan with house vegan sausage. When you're hungry enough to eat a whole pie, ask for the Vegan Supreme. Looking for a simple slice? Simply & Red is a straight-forward classic.
Pierogi Mountain
2216 Summit St., Columbus, OH 43201
If you're craving comfort food, invites you to scale to the summit for unpretentious food with a twist. Filling options include vegan samosa, vegan kraut, butternut squash, roasted garlic, and vegan sausage. New varieties are baked every Tuesday, but the only place to find them is inside Café Bourbon. Pierogi Mountain pierogis are on the menu six nights a week and they're also available in take-home packages so you can savor Pierogi Mountain's delicious and diverse vegan flavors right in your kitchen.
Condado
132 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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What can be better than tacos, tequila, and margaritas? The convenience to build your own vegan tacos! While Condado's full menu isn't vegan, it highlights every item that is including tortillas, rice, veggies, sauces, and sides. If you don't want to build your own, you can confidently choose the Dutch Dragon, a double-decker with hard corn and soft flour shells, guacamole, grilled mushrooms, salsa verde, jicama, pickled jalapenos, tomatoes, and corn salsa. Rated the best tacos in Ohio by Thrillest, Condado is open late to fill your late-night vegan taco cravings.
Eden Burger
1437 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201
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Looking for the best vegan food in Columbus? Eden Burger may hold the title. Their menu is 100 percent vegan so you can bring your appetite and leave your worry at home. Organic, plant-based ingredients are crafted into fast food favorites like burgers, wings, wraps, and sides that are too good to resist. Try a burger made with lentils, mushrooms, and rice or a breaded tempeh patty. Gluten-free buns are available as well for those with additional dietary restrictions. Be sure to swing by for brunch and enjoy breakfast burritos, loaded home fries, and donuts — all vegan and all delicious.
Comune
677 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43206
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What is plant-forward cuisine? Find out at Comune. They strive to create sharable dishes that are locally sourced and showcase satisfying flavors. Comune builds its menu from in-season ingredients, offering a taste of Ohio for a vegan diet. Chongqing Noodles, Banh Mi, and a Roasted Fennel Sandwich are fantastic lunch items, while the Pumpkin Sabzi, Grilled Stone Fruit, and Magic Chili Peanuts are on the menu for dinner. You'll also be pleased to know that they offer a selection of vegan wines to pair with your entrée.
Lalibela Restaurant
1111 S. Hamilton Road, Whitehall, OH 43213
Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine in the heart of Ohio at Lalibela Restaurant. Although most Ethiopian dishes include meat, Lalibela's menu has special vegan breakfast, lunch, and dinner options for every day of the week. The classic Gomen dish of collard greens with cottage cheese and Bamia with okra and berbere spice are local favorites, and the Ye Kik Alicha Wot split chickpea dinner is equally filling. They also have a full bar and billiards room if you're searching for a delicious vegan spot to spend the evening.
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Where is your favorite Columbus spot for vegan food? Let us know in the comments!
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