How to Have a Progressive Dinner Date Night in German Village

German Village Progressive Dinner

By Abby Valencic, @daytripscbus

Whether you’re new to central Ohio or want to visit a new (to you) neighborhood, here’s how a German Village progressive dinner date night will allow you to get to know the area while trying tasty treats along the way.

German Village is a neighborhood just south of downtown Columbus, rich in history and character. The best part about doing a progressive dinner here is that you can park your car and walk the rest of the way to your dining destinations.

For fantastic drinks and appetizers, head to Barcelona, a restaurant known to serve an array of tapas (aka small plates). Ordering 2-3 plates for a group of 4 people will be enough to kick off your night of eating without being too overloaded. When looking at the menu, take special note of the two sections of tapas. The first section is all cold dishes, while the second section is all warm or hot plates. If you’re undecided on what to pick, the patatas bravas is a mainstay of the tapas menu as well as one of the more traditional dishes you can find in Barcelona, Spain. Barcelona makes excellent cocktails to drink it down. The wine and beer menu is extensive as well, if that’s your thing.

German Village Progressive Dinner
Patatas Bravas at Barcelona | Image credit: @daytripscbus

Take a short 15-minute walk down Third Street to grab a delicious main dish from Alpine, a newer restaurant that serves German-inspired dishes. From Schnitzel to house-made dumplings, you can get a hearty meal inspired by the neighborhood’s heritage. And a bonus: raclette cheese can be poured on top of any entree for an ooey-gooey experience.

Schnitzel with raclette cheese on top | Image credit: @midwest_foodfest

While you’re walking back to your car near Barcelona, you have two delectable dessert options for your trip home. During the summer months (April to October, to be exact), Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has a walk-up window on Mohawk Street for a cool treat to end your evening. If it’s mid-winter, or you want a dessert for later on that evening, head to Schmidt’s Sausage Haus to grab one of their classic cream puffs to-go.

This progressive dinner option features just a few of the many delicious restaurants in German Village. In the mood for a lighter treat or need a cup of coffee? Head to Pistacia Vera. Want a deli sandwich instead? Try Brown Bag Deli or Katzinger’s Deli and eat your meal at nearby Schiller Park. Want something more upscale? Try G. Michael’s, Lindey’s, or the Sycamore.

Happy exploring!


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