Head South to North Market

Looking to mix up your food routine for a week? Get off campus? Or just get away from OSU scenery and High Street? Well, come with me and let’s take a trip to Columbus’ iconic downtown market.

Coming into my second year at Ohio State, I promised myself I would explore beyond the world that is OSU.  While there is so much going on around campus and OSU is a world unto itself, I often feel myself getting into routines, doing the same things or eating at the same places. However, I realized the simplest solution to breaking away from my routines on campus is to explore the happening city of Columbus. This city has plenty to do and a multitude of places to eat, and all of it is very accessible.

One of my favorite places in Columbus is the North Market, located on 59th and Spruce St. just past the Short North district. The North Market was established in 1876 and is Columbus’ last remaining public market. This place is special because if you love food there’s a ton of choices that will cater to any of your cravings.  Even if you aren’t quite sure what you want to eat, there will definitely be something that will stir up your appetite.

More than 30 vendors make up the set up of the North Market, and the variety of food stalls range from locally roasted coffee, ice cream, freshly prepared smoothies, fresh squeezed juices, baked goods, cheeses, and an international selection of freshly prepared food (Mediterranean, Japanese, Vietnamese, Indian, Mexican, Italian, Polish, Kosher-style deli and more). Plus, if you don’t want to eat anything there, there is always an option to buy fresh ingredients at the North Market and bring them home to cook in your dorm or apartment. The market also offers organic produce, poultry, and spices, so not only will you feel good about purchasing fresh food, but you will also most likely be supporting local farmers.

Not hungry? You can still have a great time at the North Market because a couple of North Market’s stalls sell craft specialties, flowers, and jewelry. It’s a great place to buy gifts and even just window shop.

Now, you might be thinking: ‘Anything in Short North or beyond is probably expensive, so why should I even bother going to the North Market?’ And at first glance the food prices may seem a bit higher compared to the food we get around campus, but as soon as you see the portion sizes they give you, you’ll see that North Market offers great value for money.  The multiple times I have been to the North Market I have been able to share food with whomever I’m with. On another note, the food is just freakin’ delicious. Not one stall has yet to disappoint.

On top of all this yumminess is that North Market always seems busy with a great mix of people from all walks of life, helping to create a super lively atmosphere that just makes you want to explore and eat. 

So hopefully, when you’re bored and thinking of something different to do, you’ll get off your butt and perhaps take a trip south to the North Market, where ton of good eats, great people and good times await.

See you there!