7 Must-Try African Restaurants In Columbus, Ohio: The Freshest Flavors Of 2025
Columbus, Ohio, is quickly cementing its reputation as a culinary powerhouse, and the most exciting movement in its food scene right now is the explosion of diverse and authentic African restaurants. Forget the same old takeout; as of late 2024 and into 2025, the city offers a vibrant tapestry of flavors spanning West, East, and North Africa, driven by a growing, passionate diaspora community. This guide cuts through the noise to highlight the newest and most critically acclaimed spots where you can experience everything from savory Jollof Rice to tender, spiced Somali goat.
Whether you are craving the rich stews of Ghana, the unique rice dishes of Senegal, or the popular, customizable bowls of East Africa, the culinary landscape in Columbus has never been more exciting. We’ve done the deep dive to bring you the freshest, most up-to-date list of African dining experiences you absolutely must try this year, focusing on flavor, authenticity, and recent buzz.
The New Wave: Ghanaian, Nigerian, and Senegalese Culinary Gems
The true measure of Columbus's African food diversity lies in its regional specialties. The city offers a fantastic opportunity to explore distinct national cuisines, moving beyond generalized "African food" to celebrate specific culinary traditions.
Drelyse African Restaurant: The Ghanaian Standard
Drelyse African Restaurant has become a cornerstone for authentic Ghanaian cuisine in Columbus. Restaurateur Lisa Bannerman brings the traditional dishes she grew up with in Ghana to the capital city, earning features in publications like *Ohio Magazine* in early 2024.
- Cuisine Focus: Authentic Ghanaian / West African Cuisine.
- Must-Try Dish: Their flavorful Jollof Rice is a standout, a tantalizing blend of rice, tomatoes, and aromatic spices that is a beloved West African dish.
- Ambiance: An unassuming eatery with a warm vibe, often featuring Afrobeat music playing over the speakers.
- Topical Authority Entitites: Ghanaian Jollof Rice, Fufu, Banku, Lisa Bannerman, West African Takeout.
Foodateria Kenyan & Nigerian Kitchen: A Flavorful Fusion
One of the more recent and exciting additions to the scene, Foodateria brings a dual-country focus, celebrating the vibrant flavors of both Kenya and Nigeria. With menu updates seen as recently as 2025, this spot is a must-visit for fresh flavors.
- Cuisine Focus: Kenyan and Nigerian.
- Must-Try Dish: The Beef Samosas are frequently described as some of the best appetizers in Columbus. Also popular are the sautéed chicken or beef, stewed with flavors from the Kenyan highlands, served with two sides.
- Nigerian Specialties: Authentic Jollof Rice and Goat Stew are menu staples.
- Topical Authority Entitites: Kenyan Highlands Stew, Beef Samosas, Nigerian Goat Stew, Plantains, East African Cuisine.
Chez Rama Restaurant: Taste of Senegal
For a unique culinary journey, Chez Rama offers the best Senegalese cuisine right in the heart of Columbus. This West African nation’s food is known for its rich, complex sauces and French-influenced techniques.
- Cuisine Focus: Senegalese Cuisine.
- Must-Try Dish: The menu features a Senegalese version of traditional Spanish paella, often made with tender pieces of lamb, known as Thiep.
- Experience: It offers a fun-filled, casual dining experience, perfect for exploring a less common African cuisine.
- Topical Authority Entitites: Thiep, Senegalese Paella, West African Food, Mafe (Peanut Stew), Yassa (Onion and Lemon Sauce).
Fast-Casual and East African Favorites
The African food scene in Columbus is not just about sit-down dining; it also excels in the fast-casual and market concepts, making it easy to grab a quick, flavor-packed meal on the go. These spots are perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
Afra Grill: The Signature Bowl Experience
Afra Grill has revolutionized the concept of African food near Easton Columbus with its "African inspired, American made" approach. It is a go-to for those seeking vibrant African flavors in a customizable, build-your-own bowl format. The food is also entirely Halal.
- Cuisine Focus: African Halal Food / Somali & African Fusion.
- Must-Try Dish: The Chicken Afra Bowl is the most popular item, often paired with their famous Afra Fantastic Sauce, which can elevate any dish. For meat lovers, the Roasted Lamb Shank is highly recommended.
- Unique Selling Point: Fast-casual service, customizable bowls, and signature entrees like the Somali Steak.
- Topical Authority Entitites: Halal Food, Chicken Afra, Roasted Lamb Shank, Afra Fantastic Sauce, Fast-Casual African, Somali Steak.
Hooyo's Kitchen: North Market's Somali Star
Located inside the bustling North Market Downtown, Hooyo's Kitchen is a beloved spot specializing in rich Somali dishes. The name "Hoyo" means "Mother" in Somali, reflecting the comforting, authentic nature of the food.
- Cuisine Focus: Somali Cuisine.
- Must-Try Dish: The Mango Chicken is their most famous dish, known for its sweet and savory balance. Other highly recommended options include the Safari Chicken Bowl and the tender Goat Bowl.
- Quick Grab: Don't miss the flavor-packed Sambusas, the Somali version of a savory pastry.
- Topical Authority Entitites: Somali Mango Chicken, Safari Chicken, Goat Bowl, Sambusas, Bariis (rice), North Market Columbus.
More Essential African Dining Experiences
To fully appreciate the depth of African cuisine in Columbus, you must also explore these other highly-rated and influential establishments that have shaped the city's food scene.
Lalibela Ethiopian Restaurant: Vegetarian Paradise
No tour of African food in Columbus is complete without mentioning the incredible Ethiopian cuisine. Lalibela is consistently recognized as a top spot for this unique East African fare.
- Cuisine Focus: Ethiopian.
- Signature Experience: Dining on a shared platter of Injera (a spongy flatbread) with various savory stews and lentil dishes, perfect for sharing and communal eating.
- Dietary Highlight: Ethiopian cuisine is famously rich in flavorful vegetarian and vegan options, making it a favorite for all diners.
- Topical Authority Entitites: Injera, Wot (stew), Tibs (sautéed meat), Lentil Dishes, Vegan African Food.
The Dish African Restaurant and Bar: Another Ghanaian Favorite
Opened in August 2023, The Dish quickly established itself as another strong contender for authentic Ghanaian cuisine in the Northside area. Its presence further solidifies Columbus as a hub for West African flavors.
- Cuisine Focus: Authentic Ghanaian Cuisine.
- Must-Try Dish: Patrons praise the authentic flavors, suggesting a mature palate is needed to appreciate the distinct spices and preparations. Look for classic Ghanaian staples like Waakye (rice and beans) and various stews.
- Topical Authority Entitites: Ghanaian Waakye, Authentic Spices, West African Bar, Eba, Banku.
Exploring the African Diaspora in Columbus
The concentration of high-quality, diverse African restaurants—from the customizable bowls of Afra Grill to the traditional Senegalese dishes at Chez Rama and the Somali delights at Hooyo's Kitchen—is a testament to the thriving African diaspora in Central Ohio. This culinary richness offers locals and visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore global cuisine without leaving the city.
Whether you are a seasoned fan of Nigerian Jollof Rice, eager to try Ethiopian Injera for the first time, or simply looking for the newest, freshest dining experience in Columbus, this list provides a roadmap to the best African food the city has to offer in 2025. Go explore these rich, authentic, and unforgettable flavors.
Detail Author:
- Name : Mr. Ryleigh Reichert
- Username : amanda.hettinger
- Email : altenwerth.boyd@yahoo.com
- Birthdate : 1999-04-30
- Address : 12936 Elnora Springs East Ollie, ND 53049-1065
- Phone : +1 (520) 761-2435
- Company : Green-Lakin
- Job : Nonfarm Animal Caretaker
- Bio : Provident esse quo consequatur consequatur blanditiis. Optio labore voluptatum tenetur voluptatum nisi eos et et. Deserunt tenetur nobis labore optio distinctio voluptatem.
Socials
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/nhessel
- username : nhessel
- bio : Est pariatur et iure id inventore et. Dignissimos magnam natus dolorem qui.
- followers : 1476
- following : 2029
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@hessel1970
- username : hessel1970
- bio : Amet omnis voluptatum corporis velit eaque.
- followers : 338
- following : 2212
