If you plan on catching a Blue Jackets game at Nationwide Arena, you should make a night of it and grab a pre-show meal. However, you don’t want to waste half of your evening trying to decide what to eat or figure out the best restaurant to eat at near the stadium. This comprehensive guide covers the best food concessions at Nationwide Arena and the top dining experiences within walking distance of the stadium. That’s why you can capitalize on your night out, without settling for average food.
Food Concessions Inside Nationwide Arena for Blue Jackets Games
Stix Cart
If you have a penchant for Japanese-inspired Bento boxes, then you definitely need to check out this cart, located near section 102. The menu includes Bento boxes with chicken, beef, or veggie meatballs, marinated eggs, housemade Pickles, and soba noodle salad or rice options. This is a quick, easy way to get a refreshing meal before the game.
Pucks and Clucks
Another popular choice for Blue Jackets fans is Plucks and Clucks, located near section 105. This popular food cart sells boneless wings, vegan Nuggets, fried chicken sandwiches, and a specialty Hawaiian burger. The bonus wings come with your choice of sauce.
Spirits and Spuds
If you had a late lunch or decided to have a big meal before you left home and are just looking for a quick snack before you find your seat, then you might want to check out Spirits and Spuds. The menu includes fingerling potatoes paired with high-end liquor selections so that you can pregame and style and not worry about having to get out of your seat again for a snack later.
Wild Turkey Hat Trick Bar
Another popular option at Nationwide Arena, which opened in 2023, is located near the front St. entrance. In section 107, you will find Italian-themed food and a grab-and-go beverage station. This is another great option if you want to get your hands on something delicious for dinner but don’t want to have to venture outside of the arena.
Restaurants
Nada
Perhaps you want to make a night of it and go out to eat with friends before the game, but you want something vibrant and casual. Nada is a popular Mexican restaurant that offers creative Taco variations, served with black beans and rice. They also have weekend brunch available until 3:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. They have daily specials, including Taco Tuesday, and Wine Down Wednesday. Regarding pricing, most entrees are under $30, making it a great place to go with a group of friends.
220 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215
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Goodale Station
If you are in town to see the game, and you don’t often come to Columbus downtown, then you should make the most of this next restaurant on our list. Situated on top of Canopy by Hilton, Goodale Station offers patrons an elevated dining experience, with breathtaking views of the Columbus skyline. The menu comprises creative new American cuisine, making the most of fresh local products. They also bring out a seasonal menu and pride themselves on collaborating with local farmers and artisans for their ingredients and inspiration.
77 E Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215
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Stories on High
Stories on High is unique because it is Columbus’s tallest rooftop bar. Situated 28 stories above street level, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the downtown skyline. It is an upscale venue, providing a distinctive experience among restaurants near Nationwide Arena, with signature cocktails and Japanese-inspired small plates. Several standout dishes attract patrons, including their wagyu beef sliders and robata chicken hearts. As you can expect, this restaurant is placed in the premium price category.
404 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
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Buca di Beppo
If you’re a big fan of Italian food but don’t want to settle for a concession stand, then the next our list will become your favorite in Columbus quickly. It offers a unique family-style experience while bringing the boisterous spirit of Italian American dining. It provides a homely, festive atmosphere, where lively conversation and sharing plates go hand in hand. Their generous portions mean you can easily share several small plates with friends. Their extensive menu includes world-famous meatballs and spicy chicken Rigatoni.
343 N Front St, Columbus, OH 43215
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Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
This well-known establishment has been a Columbus staple since 1965, maintaining a legacy of excellence that places it among some of the best restaurants near Nationwide Arena. It is conveniently located across from the Greater Columbus Convention Centre and offers diners an extraordinary experience just minutes from major attractions. The menu includes custom-aged Midwestern beef, specialty cuts including bone-in filet, New York strips, and 40 oz tomahawk ribeye. They also have a seafood menu including lobster and signature crab cakes. Expect to pay a lot for your meal, but most people would say it’s worth the experience.
511 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
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The Pearl
Not every seafood restaurant is going to be a hit, so it pays to know where to go for your seafood fix. The Pearl is considered a great mix of seafood excellence and Tavern comfort, making it a great place to relax before the game. Its diverse menu includes an extensive selection of fresh seafood and made-from-scratch entrees, including kimchi fried rice and the popular hanger steak. Their specialty oysters change with the seasons, so you know that they are always serving fresh ingredients.
641 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
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Ted’s Montana Grill
This classic American West grill was founded by media mogul Ted Turner and is considered a standout option among restaurants near Nationwide Arena. It is an eco-friendly establishment, priding itself on serving premium American classics, with an emphasis on bison. It offers the most extensive bison menu in the world, with options ranging from steaks to burgers. Almost everything is prepared fresh in the kitchen daily, and the menu includes certified sustainable seafood options. You might be surprised to learn that, pricing-wise, you can expect to pay a moderate amount, so it’s a great option if you are looking for quality food without the high price tag.
191 W Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215
Conclusion
What’s clear is that Columbus offers an impressive array of dining options within walking distance of Nationwide Arena. Whether looking for an upscale steakhouse or a casual dining experience, every taste preference and budget is on the menu before the game period. You might want to stick to the arena and get something quick and delicious from one of the many concession stands. This comprehensive guide should help you navigate the dynamic dining scene around Nationwide Arena, so you can get your hands on a delicious dinner and create an unforgettable memory.