Tucked on a quiet corner near the Ohio Statehouse, Ringside Café has been serving hungry Columbus folks since 1897. Step through the door and you land in a world of old wood, brass, and boxing history.
The burgers are named after famous fighters, and they are big, juicy, and cooked just how you ask. Here are ten reasons this old tavern deserves a spot on your list.
1. A Tavern Older Than Most Cities Dream Of Being
Some places feel old. Ringside Café is old, with roots going back to 1897, which makes it one of the longest running eating spots in Columbus.
That is more than a century of lunches, dinners, and cold drinks poured at the same corner.
The building sits at 19 N Pearl St, a short walk from the Statehouse. It is on a side street, so you might walk past it if you are not looking.
Guests often say it is a little tricky to find, yet worth the search.
Once you spot it, take a second to enjoy the outside. The corner spot and classic look hint at the stories waiting inside.
Many visitors say the age of the place is half the fun, and the other half is the food. Plan to arrive curious, and bring a friend who loves a good history tale.
2. Wood, Brass, And Stained Glass Everywhere
Picture a movie set from the early 1900s, then realize it is real. The long wooden bar at Ringside is said to be about 130 years old, and it still anchors the room.
Guests also spot stained glass windows, shining brass, and sturdy wooden booths.
The room is small, which gives it a snug, personal feel. You will not find flashy screens or trendy decor here.
Instead, the charm comes from age, craftsmanship, and a lived-in glow.
One visitor said it felt like taking part in history, and that is a fair way to describe it. If you love architecture, bring your eyes as well as your appetite.
Sit inside if you can, because reviewers agree the indoor seats show off the best of the place.
3. Burgers Named After Boxing Legends
Fighters have their names on the menu, and the burgers hit hard. Think Dempsey, Duran, and more, each one matching a boxing hero.
It is a clever idea that ties the food to the theme of the whole place.
A guest on a team lunch noted that each item is named after a boxer, and everyone at the table picked something different. That makes ordering feel like choosing your favorite champ.
The names are fun, but the real knockout is the size. Patties are thick and generous, and many people say they are the biggest they have seen.
Come hungry, and consider splitting sides. Reading the menu is half the entertainment, so take your time and pick a contender.
4. The Smokin Joe BBQ Burger
Tangy, smoky, and loaded, the Smokin Joe is the burger for barbecue fans. One couple called the sauce tangy and smoky, and said a BBQ burger is always the right choice.
It arrives with plenty of lettuce and tomato, so each bite has crunch.
Another diner paired it with house-made chips and called both delicious. That combo is a smart move if you want something simple yet satisfying.
The name nods to boxing great Joe Frazier, known as Smokin Joe. Order it the way you like, since the kitchen is praised for cooking to your request.
Medium comes out medium, which is not always true elsewhere. Keep napkins close, because this one gets happily messy.
5. Duran Cajun And The Spice Lovers
Got a taste for heat? The Duran Cajun burger brings it.
Named for Roberto Duran, it comes in a bleu cheese version with crumbles, grilled red onions, and smoked bacon on a half pound patty.
One lunch guest called it very flavorful and gave the whole visit a 9 out of 10. Another diner tried the Cajun style and could not stop talking about it afterward.
If spice is your thing, the Old School burger also earned praise from a fan of heat, who said it was among the best he had ever eaten. Bleu cheese and smoky bacon balance the kick nicely.
Pair it with a cold beer from the decent selection, and you have a well rounded meal.
6. The Famous Deep Fried Reuben
Not every star here is a burger. Several guests rave about the deep fried Reuben, with one saying it was so delicious they could not stop talking about it.
Another called it phenomenal and wants to return for a signature burger next.
It takes a classic deli favorite and gives it a crispy, golden crunch. That makes it a fun pick when you want something different.
If you are dining with friends, order one to share alongside a burger. You will get a taste of both worlds, and everyone can compare notes.
It also shows that the kitchen can handle more than patties. Ask your server what is popular that day, since the staff knows the menu well.
7. Fries, Chips, And Onion Rings Worth Sharing
Sides here are no afterthought. The fries are cut by hand in the house, and visitors describe them as so good they got lost in the moment.
Homemade chips are on offer too, though one guest found them a touch crisp on the dark side.
Onion rings keep getting thumbs up. Reviewers called them awesome and fantastic, and said the portions are plenty to share.
A smart plan is to order a few sides for the table and pass them around. That way you can sample everything without filling up too fast.
One couple noted prices run a little higher than expected, but felt they got what they paid for. With servings this hearty, sharing makes both your stomach and wallet happy.
8. Secrets In The Basement And A Tunnel To The Statehouse
Here is the kind of fact that makes you lean in. Guests say there is an old unused speakeasy in the basement, close to the restrooms.
They also mention a tunnel that once linked the tavern to the State House across the street.
Bartenders are happy to share the local lore. One visitor came during a quiet time and had the bartender explain the whole story, which they called a highlight.
If you go, ask about the history. It turns a burger lunch into a mini history lesson.
Quiet afternoons are best for chatting. Another reviewer wished the QR codes on the tables linked to a short history briefing, which shows how much people want to learn more about this spot.
9. Boxing On The Screen And Music In The Air
Look near the bar and you may catch a real boxing match from the 1940s to the 1960s playing on a TV. It fits the theme perfectly and gives the room a time capsule feel.
You can eat your burger while legends trade punches.
Music adds to the mood too. One diner praised the tunes, saying the whole evening felt just right.
The vibe is cozy, relaxed, and free of fuss. A reviewer called it a no frills place with a decent beer selection, and that sums it up.
Bring friends or coworkers, since several teams have made it a monthly lunch spot. Grab a seat at the bar if you can, because the view of the match is best there.
10. Service With A Big Heart
People talk about the welcome as much as the food. Guests mention being greeted right away, getting quick service, and enjoying a great sense of humor from the staff.
Servers know the menu and the building’s stories well.
The owner earns special praise. Visitors say he goes above and beyond, and treats people in need with compassion and respect.
One reviewer shared that two men offered to wash dishes for a meal and were given food instead.
That kindness gives the place real soul. Often the room is run by just a few people who cook, serve, and clean with impressive skill.
Expect friendly chatter and a homey feel. It is the kind of spot locals call a staple, and visitors quickly understand why.
11. Planning Your Visit And Finding The Spot
A little planning goes a long way. Ringside is at 19 N Pearl St in downtown Columbus, and the phone number is 614-228-7464.
Hours are 11 AM to 2 PM and 4 to 8 PM on most weekdays, with a 9 PM close on Friday, noon to 10 PM on Saturday, and 4 to 8 PM on Sunday.
The place is small, so arrive early at busy times. One Friday night guest grabbed the last two bar seats.
Food may take a bit when it is packed.
With a 4.7 star rating from hundreds of reviews, expectations are high, and most visitors say the place beats the hype. A big burger can run around 19 dollars or more, so bring a hearty appetite.
Choose indoor seating for the full experience.
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