Whitehall, OH might be known for its historic landmarks, but after conducting some deliciously rigorous research (a.k.a. dining around town), we’re thrilled to report it’s also home to some truly remarkable restaurants. From cozy family-owned gems to innovative modern eateries, get your appetite ready for these culinary destinations. Maybe you’ll spot a local historian savoring the flavors at one of them.
Hibachi Fire
$ | (614) 694-0021 | WEBSITE
Hibachi Fire makes the best hibachi in Columbus. The steak and shrimp hibachi is perfectly seasoned and doesn’t skimp on portions like some places, and the generous vegetables are a fresh complement to tender meat. And the appetizers shine too—like crispy egg rolls and crab rangoon with sweet and sour sauce that manage to have the crunchy wrapper and creamy filling of homemade treats. Give it a dip in the sauce and enjoy the speedy service for best results.
The Point African Restaurant
$ | (614) 826-2797 | WEBSITE
The dishes at The Point African Restaurant, the always-welcoming Whitehall eatery, are so authentic you might think you were somehow transported to West Africa. The African cuisine here is thoroughly flavorful with excellent spices, our two favorites being the Waakye with its perfect texture and their fufu with okra soup, which has just the right amount of kick to the spices. There’s no need to choose between the two, though. Just order both.
Arby’s
$ | (614) 237-6990 | WEBSITE
Arby’s may be a fast-food chain, but the double meat Reuben is its finest asset. The corned beef is piled high with melty Swiss. A scientifically precise rye toasts throughout but has a lovely, soft chew around the edges. And sides are smart, like curly fries that crunch like fried bacon, or a Jamocha shake brightened by coffee and chocolate. Skip the turkey sandwich and dive headfirst into that Reuben.
Zapatas Street Food
$ | WEBSITE
Between the tender birria beef, fresh corn tortillas, ideal layer of melted cheese, and toppings like creamy guacamole and tangy pickled onions (our two favorites), the birria burrito is the dish to beat at this Whitehall food truck that specializes in Mexican street food. The steak quesadilla is solid, too, but make no mistake—the birria burrito is the one you want.
Del Taco
$ | (614) 986-7723 | WEBSITE
Whenever we want to grab some lumpias after a long day, Del Taco always hits the spot. Their incredible lumpias come in three different kinds, each with a perfectly crispy wrapper and flavorful filling. It’s also important to note that they make something that very few places do in Whitehall: the Grilled Chicken Burrito and Chicken Loaded Queso Nachos. Their version is hearty and satisfying, and comes with a side of salsa that brightens it all up.
Sure, every item here is wonderful, but make sure you order the Grilled Chicken Burrito and Chicken Loaded Queso Nachos. You can go ahead and cancel that fancy dinner reservation afterwards.
MCL Restaurant & Bakery Whitehall
$ | (614) 861-6259 | WEBSITE
If someone took the warmth of a grandmother’s kitchen and gave it a permanent address, you would get MCL Restaurant & Bakery Whitehall. This is the reliable spot that has been a local favorite for over two decades, and while the menu has plenty of satisfying options, you’re here for the black eye peas.
They have a subtle depth of flavor that highlights the beans without overwhelming them, and when they’re paired with a slice of their highly-recommended pumpkin pie, it makes us feel like what a satisfied family (probably) feels when they finally sit down for a comforting meal together.
The Sandwich Man
$ | (614) 230-2501 | WEBSITE
This popular Whitehall spot excels in all matters related to sandwiches, but we’re not here to discuss their (excellent) Philly cheesesteak. They also serve wings with sauces that coat nearly twice as thick as the crispy, golden skin. Even still, the garlic parmesan or lemon pepper flavors don’t compromise the integrity of the tender meat inside.
Get any chicken sandwich that contains enough fresh lettuce and tomatoes to build a garden if it were a layer of toppings, or the savory fried perch involving crispy batter and homemade sides.
Golden Cafe House
$$ | (614) 447-2264 | WEBSITE
Golden Cafe House is our go-to spot for affordable comfort food by a mile, especially when you’re craving a hearty meatloaf or some spicy chicken. In that case, grab a seat near the window and order the baked fish. This generous portion comes with a side of steamed vegetables and a fresh fruit salad. The fish is flaky and well-seasoned, and the whole plate is so satisfying that you’ll leave completely full, which (to be clear) is exactly how you want it.
And let it be known that the attentive waitress Kay handles large groups with such ease that the whole experience feels effortless.
Antojitos de mi tierra LLC
$ | (614) 694-0222 | WEBSITE
This Whitehall ice cream counter serves some upstanding Mexican-style treats that happen to be less than $5 a scoop. With abundant pistachio creaminess, an even flavor distribution, and impressive presentation, we’d demolish at least two for dessert. But you’re here for the Oreo frappe version, dolloped with whipped cream, crushed cookies, and glugs of good chocolate syrup.
You might have to wait up to 15 minutes for orders during busy hours, but for a neighborhood with slim authentic pickings, Antojitos de mi tierra’s an asset.
Captain D’s
$ | (614) 309-0428 | WEBSITE
Seafood is plentiful, but it’s just as important to recognize the power of a perfectly battered fish dinner. That brings us to Captain D’s. This fast-casual seafood spot in Whitehall offers consistently fresh and tasty options. Their battered dipped fish dinner—now served as strips—is both crispy and tender at the same time, a true achievement in fast seafood.
Between the simplicity of their preparation, the hot and well-cooked food, and the professional and polite service, it all works together to become one of the better experiences among fast seafood places in the area.
Taco Bell
$ | (614) 236-0076 | WEBSITE
As tempting as the chicken quesadilla is at this classic Whitehall spot, don’t overlook the humble Cantina chicken bowl. There’s a fresh crispness to the lettuce, but the chicken is still nice and tender, especially in parts that aren’t being weighed down by creamy avocado slices. A drizzle of jalapeño sauce mixed into seasoned rice bits takes on spicy-sweet properties, which is a great bonus.
Golden Corral Buffet & Grill
$ | (614) 864-3700 | WEBSITE
Much like fine dining and minimalist decor, truly expansive buffet variety isn’t really a thing here—except at Golden Corral. It’s a straightforward spot in Whitehall where you have to navigate a clean, welcoming space filled with families and retirees. But when it comes to the fried catfish and chicken, it’s so satisfying we’d even eat it standing in the ample parking lot. The catfish is crispy, the chicken is tender, and the water glasses are always kept full (in a good way).
They’ll even accommodate different dietary needs with low-carb and vegetarian options.
Happy’s Pizza
$ | (614) 231-1111 | WEBSITE
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen when Ethiopian spices meet classic American pizza, first off, let’s grab a table. Second, that’s exactly what Happy’s Pizza in Whitehall is serving. The kitchen creates those fall-off-the-bone rib tips we know and love, but with a juicier texture and flavor produced by the power of the grill.
It’s easy to enjoy their big juicy cheeseburger paired with Cajun fries, or the chicken grill chicken sub with plenty of savory notes and the option to add extra sauce. (Please exercise this option.)
Ange’s Pizza
$ | (614) 235-0898 | WEBSITE
The pizza masters at Ange’s Pizza have been serving up their classic pies for years, and, as expected by the regulars, it’s all consistently satisfying. The pepperoni pizza is a standout round pie that delivers a perfect balance, with that signature semi-sweet sauce and a crust that’s soft yet structured, finishing with a crispy edge. You’ll also find crowd-pleasers like the garlic bread with cheese, which pairs wonderfully with the main attraction.
Just remember that you’re in a well-loved neighborhood spot, which means a welcoming, family-like atmosphere—and a post-pizza feeling that keeps you coming back for more.
The Old Bag of Nails
$ | (614) 655-2424 | WEBSITE
This Whitehall mainstay that operates out of a spacious, clean storefront has a terrific Classic Fish and Chips with flaky, perfectly fried cod and crispy golden batter. You could really just focus on the fish, savor each bite, and call it a day. Incredible seafood aside, everything else about the varied menu at The Old Bag of Nails is solid.
The French onion soup has all the richness and depth of a classic preparation, with a savory broth and plenty of melted gruyère, while the hearty sandwiches complement the cozy atmosphere with nice background music. The Classic Fish and Chips is the best choice, but the seasonal lobster roll is a close second.
