Best Restaurants for Anniversaries in Short North - Arena District

Seated on time. Calm interior, quiet conversation. No background music to be shouted over, which is a big plus, especially if you have hearing aids! Service was attentive. Espressos were admittedly forgotten by the wait staff, which was otherwise excellent. Once she was reminded, it appeared quickly. Onion soup was hot, cheesy and delicious. Risotto notable for superb combination of flavors. The half portion was generously sized. Cheeseburger was actually cooked medium rare, as ordered. Nice to have selection of several sides not just French fries. The sesame bun was toasted perfectly. Traditional condiments required special request as no ketchup or mustard was offered or presented. Main dish was served as we were still eating our soup. They had great Cole slaw! Beverages of the alcoholic type were diverse and apparently satisfying. The dessert menu looked marvelous, but we did not partake of its offerings, choosing espresso instead. One of my criteria for a good restaurant, having a functional pepper mill on the table (and salt), which was on the table when we were seated. Check! The bread items were freshly made and artisanal. The basket arrived automatically and was not added to the tab. Lighting was subdued. Atmosphere was warm, cozy and relaxing. The menu was creative but not off-putting as there were items familiar to most diners, as well. It is nice to be able to select the size of ones entrée, obviating the need for leftovers unless one is a fan of leftovers. Thoroughly delightful experience! This is one of my favorite restaurants in Columbus! I will return again soon!

Tim was our waiter. Friendly and professional. Knowledgeable about the menu!

Glad to visit this place again - we've been coming for decades. One of the quietest restaurants we know, and the prices are sensible. Our bill was $80 for two, full courses with one cocktail. Nice1

This was our first time at the new Capital Grille and we were thrilled. The dining room is gorgeous, you can see right into the kitchen but it is behind glass, adding to the intrigue. Service was excellent, attentive, not rushed at all. They had a great lunch special of soup or salad plus a choice of 3 entrees. The bread was luscious. We started with a very rich and cheesy French onion soup, and both of us chose the seared salmon with Mediterranean couscous, asparagus and heirloom tomatoes. All prepared just right and tasted great.