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South Village Grille

South Village Grille, 197 Thurman Ave, Columbus

4.8
RESTAURANT RATING: 
EXCEPTIONAL
4.8 out of 5 (251 Ratings)
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1.6 miles Fortress Obetz
About South Village Grille
The Spotlight on South Village Grille

Stylish American Dining in the Heart of German Village

South Village Grille brings modern American cuisine to the charming streets of Columbus’ German Village. Just a short drive or ride from the city’s major concert venues, this sleek, glass-fronted spot offers a welcoming mix of neighborhood charm and contemporary style. Inside, you’ll find a buzzing atmosphere, a spacious bar, and a menu that balances comfort food favorites with creative culinary twists.

Why Concert-goers love it

Location is key—South Village Grille is close enough for a quick bite before the show but far enough from the downtown noise to keep things relaxed. The quick, attentive service makes it easy to dine without rushing, and the bar scene gives off just the right kind of buzz for a pre-show energy boost. Many concert-goers love the option of grabbing a craft cocktail or small plate without committing to a full meal. Plus, the open layout and acoustic design keep noise levels lively but not overwhelming.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends gearing up for a fun night out
  • Solo travelers looking for a stylish and safe place to unwind
  • Couples on a romantic concert weekend
  • Fans wanting a vibrant spot to kick off the evening
  • Budget-conscious music lovers looking for value in quality and portions

What People Say

Reviewers on TripAdvisor and OpenTable rave about the modern aesthetic, friendly staff, and inventive cocktails. The wood-fired pizzas and seafood options like the scallops and salmon are consistent crowd-pleasers. Customers frequently highlight the ambience and lighting—perfect for photos and pre-show vibes. Many mention how it’s a “hidden gem” in German Village with a more upscale feel without being pretentious.

Areas for Improvement

While most guests are happy with their experience, a few note that on busy nights service can be a bit slower, especially at the bar. Parking in the area may require a short walk, so arriving early is smart. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and concert nights.

The Bottom Line

If you're heading to a show and want a polished yet approachable spot for dinner or drinks, South Village Grille is a top pick for a relaxed and flavorful start to your night.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
American
Opening Hours
Mon-Thu, Sun 11:00 am-10:00 pm
Fri, Sat 11:00 am-11:00 pm
Happy Hour
Mon-Fri 3:00 pm-6:00 pm
Sat, Sun 3:00 pm-5:00 pm

South Village Grille Customer Reviews

Many have visited, but none have returned to tell the tale. Will you be the first to write a review of South Village Grille?

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

South Village Grille is #154 of 2665 things to do in Columbus

3 of 5 stars3 out of 5
By: Jason C
Mon 24 Mar, 2025
l Quite meh. Best dish was the grilled cheese. Had the fish sandwich and chicken sandwich. Good fries but the truffle fries did not have any discernible truffleness.

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4 of 5 stars4 out of 5
By: Amy D, Cincinnati, Ohio
Tue 27 Jun, 2023
l We were in from Cincinnati visiting family and my sister took us to this cute place. We loved the décor and the energy (and especially the comfy chairs!) We had reservations at 8pm on a Friday. We...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: SolonSal, Solon, Ohio
Tue 6 Jun, 2023
l Our Air BnB hosts had suggested South Village Grille - and we were delighted to be able to get a Friday evening reservation. I chose the salmon and was allowed to substitute their "simple salad...

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South Village Grille 197 Thurman Ave, Columbus