Low-lit eatery serving Mediterranean & South American-influenced small plates plus wine & cocktails.
AP
The pollo saltado and the lomo saltado were pretty decent, but not worth $25 per plate.
The cheese empanadas were extremely disappointing. Very small, barely any cheese inside, and the dough was powdery and dry. They honestly seemed like the frozen Goya empanadas you find in the grocery store. I was astounded by the audacity to put 3 of them on a plate and charge $14 for it. I have had empanadas that were tastier, fresher, and much larger for less than half the price of these.
What you’re paying for here is ambiance and location. Definitely not the food. The staff was also very friendly, however.
It was nice to try once, but I would not go back. Too pricey for what you get.
… moreRick Grubbs
Decided to try this restaurant and were pleasantly thrilled we made this choice. Certainly too level of chefs who blend flavors to the maximum. This is not a simple sandwich style restaurant and the chefs are spectacular. Small plate style for sharing with party sharing. I started with beef filet skewers with creamy blue cheese. The vegetables were sautéed and flavorful. The addition small second plate was mouth watering large scallops with melted fresh parmesan cheese which only enhanced the scallops. We topped the evening with a Tres Leche and once again.. delicious!
Our waitress, Claudia, was spot on perfect with recommendations and she was attentive to us. Our next trip will try the lobster ravioli. Recommend asking for Claudia. Recommend making reservations and enjoy.
… moreRyan (Rye105)
We always have a great experience at Sidebar! If you love a tapas restaurant this is it!! We come here a few times a year and the food is always excellent! Muscles, saffron risotto, garlic mushrooms and beef empanadas are just a few of our favorites. The poached pear and ice cream is the best dessert they have!! Highly recommend!!
… moreEileen Murphy
A Columbus Gem — The Paella is Worth the Hype!
Our friends told us we had to try the paella at Sidebar, and they were absolutely right — it’s phenomenal! The dish arrived in a traditional paella pan, brimming with perfectly cooked mussels, shrimp, chorizo, chicken, rice, and peppers. Every bite was full of rich, authentic flavor — beautifully seasoned and cooked to perfection. You can really taste the care and tradition that goes into this dish.
The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the service was just as impressive as the food. It’s rare to find a spot in Columbus that captures the essence of classic Spanish cooking like this. If you’re a paella lover (or even if you’re not yet!), Sidebar should be at the top of your list. Absolutely worth requesting in advance, you’ll be so glad you did!
… moreNathalie Rodriguez
Everything I tasted at Sidebar was delicious!!! The Sangria!, the Paella!, the empanadas! The salad! The desserts! Everything!!!!
Great atmosphere and environment! Great place for dates or celebrations, parties. Definitely a new favorite spot!
… moreDaniel Dahlhausen
Cool place. The food is a little pricy and small portioned, but the quality is there so it’s understandable.
One thing I cannot recommend is the tres leches cake. It’s probably the worst tres leches I’ve had (not much milk, kinda tasted like regular cake) and the raspberry syrup topping in my opinion does not compliment it at all.
… moreSarai Gates
We got close to closing time but they served us and were friendly. We got the shrimp ceviche (Ecuadorian’s style), beans and rice, empanadas and the plantains with cheese and guava tapa as suggested by our server, which was delicious. Everything was tasty and our drinks were great as well.
… moreA LaCount Frank
Absolutely blown away by the diversity and quality of food, family friendly menu, very upscale preparation- kudos to the chef- and service was excellent. We had a large party and the restaurant was packed so I was highly impressed with the ability to keep up. I would say for positive feedback to bring out meals as close together as possible but other than that it was delicious, well presented and the atmosphere was upbeat, clean and exciting and everyone around us was having a great time. Clean restrooms as well and lounge downstairs. I loved the large, well laid out bar and outdoor seating though I didn’t enjoy this visit. More than enough parking .
… moreJM Kropa
Wonderful food. Each dish was a delight to the eyes as well as the taste buds. Server was just attentive enough. We would definitely want to come back. It’s a great place to celebrate a special occasion. Parking lot (we paid less than $4 since it was after 5 pm) is about a block away and we felt safe walking in the area. My favorite tapas was the beef shewers with blue cheese on a bed of vegetables in a flavorful sauce.
… moreJessica Moxley
Sidebar Columbus has a cool, edgy vibe that makes it stand out right away. I appreciate that they offer non-alcoholic options alongside a diverse, well-thought-out menu. I went with the braised short ribs—perfectly cooked and packed with bold flavors. DeAndre ordered the roasted duck, which was also executed really well. Overall, a solid spot for anyone looking for great food in a unique atmosphere
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