The Ringside Cafe in Columbus

The Ringside Cafe in Columbus is the oldest sports bar in Columbus, Ohio. Dating back to 1897 it has quite a history. Back in the day it was said to be a speakeasy.

Hard to find, it’s wedged into the corners of Pearl Street and Lynn Alley. It was debatable if it was a restaurant or bar, but it has always served food.

Entering the cafe takes you back in time with the dark wood interior and antiques scattered about.

Known for their hamburgers named for famous boxers, you’ll find the Jack Dempsey, Rocky Marciano, Brown Bomber, Smokin Joe and more. The usual sides of fries, onion rings, cole slaw or salad are available and they do have soups and salads.

Other sandwiches offered are grilled chicken breast, swiss chicken club and a few other choices. They also have deli sandwiches of ham, turkey, ham and turkey, or tuna and chicken salad.

You will find bar drinks, including several styles of martinis, alcohol, wine, and beer.

Seating for dining is available outdoors, in the bar scene or in the sports bar. They have the usual darts and television for a sports bar and restaurant.

They also have a private party room for gatherings of different types.

The food is good and the prices are reasonable, but happy hour ends at 9PM, so you’ll want to get there early.

Location: 19 N. Pearl Street, Columbus, OH 43215 – Phone: 614-228-7464

Ringside Cafe Comments

Chef ( Ringside Cafe )

When I got the call to be a part of the restaurant, which had been a bit of history in Columbus I was very happy… I wanted to stress quality over quantity in the menu. My pride in food allows me to embrace the simplicity of the foods I use. Balancing the flavors of good quality foods on a simple basis of quick food fast….. You really should check us out.

Thanks.
Roderick Nix

Aug 27, 2009
Excellent Food at Ringside Cafe!

by: Ann

Ringside Cafe does serve excellent food. Based on the invitation to check them out from Chef Nix I decided to dine there. The food is delicious, the service was great and I still like the atmosphere!

Ringside Cafe
by john walker

The food is bad. They need to close down.

April 05, 2009
by: Anonymous

Obviously you haven’t been in a while, new management took over, some of the best sandwiches downtown. They are fast too, perfect for the quick bite on lunch.

Ringside Cafe Experience
by Larry Medina
(Clintonville,Ohio 43202)

I went to the ringside with a friend last week and we both had the burger and fries they were excellent and so was the draft beers we had. The place is very cozy and friendly. I will go here again and again the staff was very attentive and we had a great experience.