Forno Kitchen Bar

721 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
+1 614-469-0053
$$$ American restaurant
(2459 Reviews)
Price Range $20–30

Forno Kitchen Bar sits on bustling North High Street in Columbus, weaving together the familiarity of an American restaurant with a lively, neighborhood atmosphere that feels both welcoming and vibrant. This spot leans into a casual yet thoughtfully curated dining experience, making it a solid choice for everything from a midday brunch catch-up to a relaxed evening out.

The menu is anchored by approachable, comfort-driven dishes like pepperoni pizza, pasta with vodka sauce, and hearty shrimp and grits, but it steps beyond the basics with more adventurous offerings such as arancini and baked lobster rotini, appealing to diners looking for something a bit elevated without being pretentious. For those who like to linger over a drink, the bar crafts house cocktails that range from a lively Forno Bloody Mary to an espresso martini, making it a good stop for both early evening socializing and weekend brunch celebrations.

Atmosphere-wise, Forno Kitchen Bar carries a warm buzz, especially on busy weekend afternoons when local groups gather and the bar area fills with chatter. Staff interactions are frequently noted as friendly and attentive, blending the professionalism of a well-run kitchen and service team with a friendliness that helps the space feel like a local hangout rather than just another restaurant.

This place fits well for locals and visitors who appreciate a spot that balances solid, comforting food with a laid-back vibe and some upscale touches. Brunch seems to shine here, particularly when paired with one of their creative cocktails. The lively setting on High Street also means it’s a good option if you want the energy of a popular dining corridor without sacrificing quality or service.

Overall, Forno Kitchen Bar works for those wanting a dependable American restaurant with a few twists, attentive but unhurried service, and an upbeat yet inviting environment. It’s where you might start with a house salad or steamed mussels, settle into a main like the pasta Forno or meatball linguine, and end with a dessert that locals talk about. With friendly servers and a bar staff that adds something extra to the experience, it’s a spot that feels made for both casual outings and small celebrations alike.

Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Serves great dessert
Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves happy-hour food
Serves late-night food
Has private dining room
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Best for
Serves breakfast
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Parking
Paid multi-storey car park
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking
Somewhat difficult to find a space

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

04:00 PM - 11:00 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 01:00 AM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 01:00 AM

Sunday

10:00 AM - 11:00 PM

2459 Reviews
Jamie Vasquez

01 Jan 2026

Here for work and we decided to try Fornos out. I had the pasta with vodka sauce and shrimp. Small salad and Tiramisu for dessert. Food was amazing, hot and dessert was off the chain good. Ian our server very attentive and friendly. Highly recommend. I will be back.

Cam Cameron

19 Dec 2025

Overall 10/10 went on a Friday afternoon for brunch and it did not disappoint! Hostess was very sweet & kind. The atmosphere was such a vibe! Ordered the ahi tuna tacos (highly recommend) and the white pizza both were delicious!!!! Shout out to our server Andrea! She was so sweet (& gorgeous too!)

Hugo Deleon-Rodriguez

02 Nov 2025

Great vibes all around! Every employee I interacted with was amazing — super friendly and welcoming. The food was absolutely incredible, and I highly recommend the meatballs! This is definitely a place I’ll remember next time I’m in Columbus. Make sure to visit the bar and ask for Engin — he was very attentive and made the experience even better. Thank you for a great time!

Emilio Finatti Food Services Inc.

06 Oct 2025

Found this gem and timing was poifect for their happy hour. Recommend… Garlic Shrimp Crispy Rice w/ tuna Scallops - best dish! Mussels - the occasional bit of sand, otherwise delicious Warmed Riccotta - would recommend! We had two rounds of cocktails and made it for around $90. We had the pleasure of having Luke as our server, he’s an absolute prince! Would go jack without hesitation, will have to try the za next time.

OUT N' ABOUT

25 Sep 2025

The food was really good here, not sure why there so many negative reviews, maybe there's a new cook in the kitchen! The carne pizza was delicious, the crispy rice was awesome, the calamari was good but the aoli sauce was even better. Our drinks were ok. Our server Andrea was wonderful, and she has a beautiful personality. We went during happy hour so it was extremely busy, but Andrea was very attentive and checked on us several times while she was waiting on several tables in different areas. We had a great time and the happy hour prices are great... EVERYTHING is half off!! Most restaurants only have certain items for half off. Kudos to Fornos!! We will definitely be back. Some of the tables are really close together, so it's better to make a reservation rather than to just walk in.

Harry Hilton

24 Sep 2025

I had an amazing meal at Forno where everything I tried was absolutely delicious. I went with pizza and it did not disappoint. Afterward, we headed downstairs to the speakeasy in the basement and it was such a fun surprise. The specialty drinks were creative, and the space had a cozy Christmas-themed vibe that made it feel extra festive. It is definitely worth visiting if you enjoy good food and a unique, charming atmosphere.

Marissa Spletter

17 Sep 2025

Came here on a Saturday at noon (game day ) and glad I made a reservation though there was still plenty of bar space available . I tried the Eggs Purgatory Skillet, super tasty and filling. The Forno Grilled Cheese & Tomato Bisque was the real winner though… absolutely amazing! Definitely what I’ll be ordering next time . I also got an almond milk latte, not my favorite since the ice melted quickly and made it a bit watered down . Overall, this spot really shines for their morning cocktails and brunch dishes . A fun atmosphere, great for game day energy, and the food hits the spot!

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