Where in Columbus to find the trendiest foods of 2026

The National Restaurant Association once again dug into what top chefs expect will be the hottest food trends in the new year.

The intrigue: Columbus has embraced several for a while now.

Where to find them locally:

❤️ Comfort food: Our classic diner and soup recommendations will keep you warm this winter.

• Try upscale Southern cuisine at Subourbon or Tupelo Honey, which we visited in Upper Arlington in 2024.

🌍 Global comfort foods: We've got a few ideas — and will keep adding more.

🧑‍🌾 Local sourcing: Local Roots in Powell and Skillet near German Village are still going strong, and The Clocktower opened in Plain City last year.

🍔 Smash burgers: Stacked Burger Co. by Worthington lived up to the hype in our 2025 visit.

• Preston's and Club 185 are longtime reader favorites, and Smash Buddies is a newer spot in the Brewery District.

🚫 Allergen-friendly menus: Central Ohio has a surprising number of gluten-free spots, like Gluten-Free Biscuits by Daddy-O in King-Lincoln Bronzeville.

• Bake Me Happy also features dairy-free treats and Cherbourg Bakery in Bexley is free of dyes and nuts.

🫘 Protein add-ons: Chains like Roots, honeygrow and Playa Bowls are expanding in our area, offering build-your-own bowls with meat alternatives like beans, tofu and protein powders.