10 Mom & Pop Restaurants In Columbus That Serve Home Cooked Meals To Die For

What is a “Mom & Pop” restaurant? Well, it’s probably family owned, has been in the same spot for decades, and it is most definitely a place that serves delicious homemade food and a cozy inviting atmosphere. Columbus has lots of such places! We love these spots and we’re so glad to show them the support they need to keep serving up their fantastic foods for years to come. Check out these 10 excellent Mom & Pop restaurants in Columbus.

Evanes S./Yelp

Jess H./Yelp

Home of the original Pancake Balls, Katalina's is definitely a favorite eatery in Columbus. It sits in a 100-year-old gas station and it's a great local spot for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. The food is homemade with a Latin and Southern vibe, and is made with local and ethical ingredients.

Katalina's is located at 1105 Pennsylvania Ave., Columbus, OH 43201

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Michael M./Yelp

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Meg H./Yelp

This wonderful little joint opened just last year, but it already feels like a classic. The establishment features the most simple of styles, taking you back to a time of simple diners and cafeterias. The food, while traditional, is made with a wonderful modern touch. Dough Mama is a bakery specializing in artisanal pie, and a great place to find brunch items.

Dough Mama Cafe and Bakery is located at 3335 N High St., Columbus, OH 43202.

Nathan L./Yelp

Holly Jo J/Yelp

This is the place for that quick, classic diner-style breakfast. Roll out of bed and head on over for your very own "Gus Buster" portion. Jack and Benny's is a true local favorite. With it's quick service, it's never too long until your next plate of egg and gravy heaven.

Jack & Benny's has several locations:
2563 North High St., Columbus, Ohio 43202
12 East Broad St., Columbus, Ohio 43215
2160 West Case Rd., Columbus, Ohio 43235

Meghan Y./Yelp

Cherie L./Yelp

Rubino's is a long-time local favorite that serves Italian-style thin crust pizza. This place has been feeding pizza-craving locals for more than 50 years! It's a simple old-fashioned cash-only pizzeria with some of the most delicious pies in town.

Rubino’s Pizza is located at 2643 E Main St., Columbus, OH 43209.

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Kevin D./Yelp

Angela S./Yelp

With a motto like "Matzo Ballin' since 1984," you know this place is great and has a fun vibe. The idea behind the deli is simple - great sandwiches served in two sizes to fit any budget and appetite. The work that goes into creating the amazing ingredients is anything but simple. Their chicken comes from Amish families at Gerber Farms, the Emmentaler cheese is Swiss imported, and the brisket is marinated for 48 hours prior to roasting!

Katzinger's Delicatessen is located at 475 S 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215.

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Madelyn A./Yelp

J W./Yelp

Starliner Diner features a big menu with the perfect dish for everyone. They have an award-winning breakfast and brunch menu, with incredible meals like the Farmer's Omelette and the Breakfast Burrito with Chorizo. The menu also has a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Starliner Diner is located at 4121 Main St., Hilliard, OH 43026.

David K./Yelp

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Anna L./Yelp

Buckeye Donuts has been a staple of campus and Columbus life for years. Besides selling a huge assortment of delicious donuts, they also serve a variety of gyros. The place is open 24 hours a day, making it the perfect destination when you're craving a gyro and a side of paprika tossed french fries after a late night out or a sweet treat for those midnight sugar cravings.

Buckeye Donuts is located at 1998 N High St., Columbus, OH 43201.

Cassie Rachelle R./Yelp

Andy B./Yelp

Nancy's might just be as close to Mom's home cooking as you can get. Since 1968, this place has been providing the neighborhood with a super friendly, super cozy, super yummy spot to gather and dine together. Nancy's opens up early to make sure they have time to feed you before your busy day begins.

Nancy's Home Cooking is located at 3133 N High St., Columbus, OH 43202.

Yelp/ Matthew V.

Matthew V./Yelp

Even after being in business for more than 50 years, The Pizza House still offers traditional homemade pizza with fresh ingredients and dough made in-house. Over the years, they have also added some delicious newer items, including White Pizza, Hawaiian Pizza, BBQ Chicken Pizza, Pesto Pizza, and pizza with gluten-free crust.

The Pizza House is located at 747 E Lincoln Ave., Columbus, OH 43229.

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Owner/Yelp

Owner/Yelp

For Tex-Mex dishes prepared using traditional family recipes, look no further than Talita's. Here you'll find all your favorites, including enchiladas, tacos, and salads. Make sure you also try their coney dogs- they're big, meaty dogs with coney sauce, cheese, onion, and mustard.

Talita's Southwest Cafe is located at 1335 Dublin Rd., Ste. 110E, Columbus, OH 43215.

Have you been to these places? Which one is your favorite? Where do you go when you just need a taste of home? Let us know in the comments!