Introduction
Hilliard, Ohio, a vibrant suburb just outside of Columbus, is more than just a collection of friendly neighborhoods and excellent schools. It’s a community brimming with culinary delights, a place where diverse flavors and innovative chefs come together to create a dining scene that’s both exciting and accessible. Forget those bland suburban stereotypes; Hilliard offers a surprisingly robust selection of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to satisfy every craving imaginable. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor passing through, the Hilliard food scene promises a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. This guide will take you on a tour of some of the best food places in Hilliard, ensuring that your next meal is a memorable one. From cozy breakfast nooks to globally-inspired dinners, and everything in between, prepare to discover the hidden gems and beloved staples that make Hilliard a true food lover’s paradise. So, grab your appetite, and let’s embark on this tasty journey! We’ll explore fantastic choices for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and of course dessert, featuring both local favorites and ethnic cuisine.
Rise and Shine: Hilliard’s Breakfast and Brunch Delights
Starting the day off right is crucial, and Hilliard offers a fantastic array of breakfast and brunch spots to fuel your morning. Forget boring toast; we’re talking pancakes piled high, eggs cooked to perfection, and enough caffeine to kickstart even the sleepiest soul.
Stauf’s Coffee Roasters
More than just your average coffee shop, Stauf’s is a Hilliard institution. Known for its meticulously sourced and expertly roasted coffee beans, it’s the perfect place to grab a latte and a pastry before tackling the day. But Stauf’s also offers a delicious breakfast menu. Try their avocado toast, a delightful combination of creamy avocado, everything bagel seasoning, and a perfectly poached egg. Their breakfast sandwiches are also a hit, especially the one with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a fried egg on a toasted brioche bun. With a warm, inviting atmosphere and a focus on quality, Stauf’s is a Hilliard staple. Expect to spend around ten to fifteen dollars per person. Find them on Main Street in Old Hilliard.
First Watch
A national chain, yes, but First Watch has earned its place as a Hilliard brunch favorite. With a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative dishes, their menu is a constant source of delightful surprises. The Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos, packed with scrambled eggs, chorizo, Monterey Jack cheese, avocado, and pico de gallo, are a flavorful and satisfying choice. If you’re craving something sweet, the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes are a must-try. These fluffy pancakes are infused with lemon zest and ricotta cheese, then topped with a sweet lemon glaze and fresh berries. Be prepared for a bit of a wait on weekends, but the food is well worth it. Expect to spend around fifteen to twenty dollars. They are located on Cemetery Road.
Hilliard Coffee Pod
This local gem offers a cozy and comfortable atmosphere perfect for enjoying a leisurely breakfast. Their menu features classic breakfast staples like omelets, pancakes, and waffles, all made with fresh ingredients. A popular choice is their breakfast burrito, filled with eggs, cheese, potatoes, and your choice of meat. They also have a great selection of coffee drinks and pastries. It’s a great place to support a local business and enjoy a delicious and affordable breakfast. Prices are very reasonable, around eight to twelve dollars. You can find them on Northwest Parkway.
Hilliard’s breakfast and brunch scene offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quick coffee and pastry or a leisurely brunch with friends. These spots showcase the diversity and quality that defines Hilliard’s food culture.
Casual Bites and Family-Friendly Feasts
Sometimes, you just need a delicious, no-fuss meal in a relaxed atmosphere. Hilliard has plenty of casual dining options that are perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking for a satisfying bite without breaking the bank.
Romeo’s Pizza
It is hard to argue with the appeal of a perfectly baked pizza, especially when it is family-friendly. Romeo’s Pizza is a Hilliard staple, known for its delicious pies made with fresh ingredients and a commitment to community involvement. Their menu offers a wide variety of pizzas, from classic pepperoni to specialty creations like the Butcher Shop, loaded with meat, or the Veggie Lovers. They also have a selection of subs, salads, and appetizers. It’s a great place to grab a quick and affordable meal with the family. A large pizza will set you back around twenty to twenty-five dollars. Romeo’s has multiple locations in Hilliard, making it easy to find one near you.
Local Cantina
If you are looking for something that has a little more flair but is still casual, Local Cantina is a fantastic spot. They have a huge selection of tacos (build your own!), burritos, enchiladas, and other Mexican favorites. Their margaritas are a must-try, and their patio is the perfect place to enjoy a meal on a warm day. It’s a popular spot with locals, known for its fun atmosphere and delicious food. Expect to spend around fifteen to twenty dollars. They are located in Mill Run.
Brazenhead
This Irish pub offers a hearty menu of classic pub fare. From fish and chips to shepherd’s pie to burgers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It is a local favorite, and has been family-owned for several years. Their menu is sure to have something to please all members of your group. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends and family. It’s also a great place to watch sports. Expect to spend around fifteen to twenty dollars. You’ll find Brazenhead on Britton Parkway.
Hilliard’s casual dining scene is all about comfort, convenience, and delicious food. These restaurants offer a relaxed atmosphere and a variety of options to please even the pickiest eaters.
A World of Flavors: International Cuisine in Hilliard
Hilliard’s culinary landscape is a reflection of its diverse community, with a wide range of international restaurants offering authentic and flavorful experiences. From Asian delicacies to European classics, there’s a world of culinary adventures waiting to be discovered in Hilliard.
Tucci’s South Italian Cuisine
For a taste of authentic Italian cuisine, look no further than Tucci’s South Italian Cuisine. This family-owned restaurant is known for its homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and traditional Italian dishes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a family celebration. Try their lasagna Bolognese, a classic Italian dish made with layers of fresh pasta, meat sauce, and béchamel sauce. Their seafood risotto is also a popular choice, packed with fresh seafood and creamy risotto. Expect to spend around twenty to thirty dollars per person. This local Italian cuisine favorite is located off of Cemetery Road.
Sushi Time
Craving sushi? Sushi Time offers a wide variety of fresh and delicious sushi rolls, sashimi, and Japanese entrees. Their menu features both traditional and creative sushi rolls, as well as a selection of noodle dishes and tempura. The atmosphere is modern and stylish, making it a great place for a casual lunch or a dinner with friends. Try their Rainbow Roll, a colorful and flavorful roll with avocado, cucumber, and a variety of fresh fish. Their Spicy Tuna Roll is also a popular choice, packed with spicy tuna and avocado. Expect to spend around fifteen to twenty-five dollars. Sushi Time can be found on Hilliard Rome Road.
Everest Dine
Everest Dine offers authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine. The menu is packed with flavorful curries, tandoori dishes, and noodle dishes. This Hilliard restaurant has a friendly staff and inviting atmosphere. Try their Chicken Tikka Masala, a classic Indian dish made with tender chicken in a creamy tomato sauce. They also offer a selection of vegetarian options, such as their Saag Paneer, a dish made with spinach and cheese. Expect to spend around fifteen to twenty dollars. They are located on Cemetery Road.
Exploring Hilliard’s international food scene is a fantastic way to experience the diversity of the community and discover new flavors. These restaurants offer authentic cuisine and a taste of different cultures, all within the heart of Hilliard.
Sweet Endings: Dessert Destinations in Hilliard
No meal is complete without a sweet ending, and Hilliard has plenty of dessert destinations to satisfy your sweet tooth. From ice cream to bakeries to dessert cafes, there’s a treat for everyone in Hilliard.
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
A local favorite with a national reputation, Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream is a must-visit for any ice cream lover. They offer a wide variety of flavors, all made fresh daily with high-quality ingredients. From classic vanilla to creative concoctions, there’s a flavor for every palate. The atmosphere is nostalgic and fun, making it the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. Expect to spend around five to ten dollars. Handel’s is located on Cemetery Road.
Resch’s Bakery
For those who love baked goods, Resch’s Bakery is the perfect place to go. Offering everything from doughnuts to cookies to cakes, this bakery has it all. Resch’s is a perfect place to grab a sweet treat for any occasion. Expect to spend around five to fifteen dollars. Resch’s can be found in Old Hilliard on Main Street.
Hilliard’s dessert scene offers a sweet ending to any meal. These places offer a variety of options to please every palate.
Hidden Gems and Local Haunts
Beyond the well-known favorites, Hilliard has a few hidden gems and local haunts that are worth exploring. These restaurants offer a unique dining experience and a taste of Hilliard’s authentic character.
Crooked Can Brewing Company
This is more than just a brewery. Crooked Can Brewing Company offers a variety of craft beers and a delicious menu of pub fare. The atmosphere is lively and fun, with live music and events throughout the year. It’s a popular spot with locals, known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious beer. They are also known for the Boxcar Cafe located inside the brewery. This offers a rotating menu of food options ranging from authentic tacos to mouth-watering burgers and fries. Expect to spend around fifteen to twenty dollars. Find them at Center Street.
Old Bag of Nails Pub
While the name might raise an eyebrow, this pub is anything but rusty. A Hilliard staple, Old Bag of Nails Pub is known for its fish and chips and lively atmosphere. A perfect place to meet with friends. They have specials every day of the week. Expect to spend around fifteen to twenty dollars. You can find Old Bag of Nails Pub on Hilliard Rome Road.
These hidden gems and local haunts showcase the unique character of Hilliard’s food scene. They are a testament to the creativity and passion of the local culinary community.
Hilliard’s Culinary Scene: A Taste of Something Special
From cozy breakfast spots to globally inspired dinners, Hilliard’s food scene offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor passing through, be sure to explore the restaurants, cafes, and eateries that make this community so vibrant. So, grab your appetite and discover the hidden gems and beloved staples that make Hilliard a true food lover’s paradise. Hilliard really has some amazing choices for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert! Explore what is available and find something that you love!
We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the culinary delights of Hilliard. Be sure to check back for updates as new restaurants open and old favorites evolve. And don’t forget to share your own favorite Hilliard food spots in the comments below! Happy dining!
