Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the city’s vibrant food scene offers plenty of opportunities to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic Southern treats to modern takes on dessert staples, here are five must-try dessert spots in Columbus that are sure to delight.
1. The Cheesecake at The Loft, Mabella Italian Steakhouse, Salt Cellar, or Mix Market
Nestled in the heart of downtown Columbus, The Loft is a beloved establishment known for its eclectic southern menu and inviting atmosphere. Beyond its savory dishes, live music and comedy events, The Loft's cheesecake has gained a reputation as some of the best in town. This dessert is a creamy, rich delight, perfectly balanced with a hint of tartness. The graham cracker crust is buttery and crisp, providing the perfect base for the smooth cheesecake filling. What sets this dessert apart is its seasonal topping options. In the spring, you might find it adorned with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of balsamic reduction, while in the winter, it might be served with a warm chocolate ganache.Depending on the time of year you may find yourself lucky enough to grab a slice of their fruity cereal cheesecake. No matter the season, the cheesecake at The Loft is a treat that you’ll want to return for time and again. Restaurateur Tom Jones found plenty of success with his first uptown restaurant and over the years has contributed several other fabulous establishments to the Columbus culinary scene. With each new location the fan favorite cheesecake has gone along for the ride so you can indulge in a slice all over town.
2. Pastries at My Boulánge & Tower Pizza
For a taste of France in Columbus, head over to My Boulánge, a charming bakery and café that offers some of the finest french pastries in the area. My Boulánge makes a wide variety of pastries and desserts, using high-quality ingredients that result in vibrant, true-to-flavor tastes. Whether you opt for the chocolate twists, the classic fruit tarts, their weekly cheesecake special, or any of their innumerable flavors of macarons your craving will be satisfied. My Boulánge’s cozy ambiance, combined with the delightful desserts, makes it a perfect spot for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
3. Delicious Desserts at Nonic Restaurant & Rooftop Bar
Nonic is a local favorite not only for its excellent bar program and as a perfect date night spot but also for its popular desserts. When Nonic opened its new location at highside market word of the Banana Bread Trifle spread around like wildfire. It is a standout treat that combines chantilly creme, sesame caramel tuile, banana brulee, and miso caramel. Their other dessert items include their fantastic rendition of peach cobbler served with vanilla ice cream, and brown sugar crumble and a decadent, gluten free chocolate souffle cake served with fresh berries and vanilla ice cream.
4. Banana Pudding at Country’s Barbecue
You may not think “dessert” when you hear the name Country’s Barbecue but you should! This Columbus classic features a great selection of southern desserts you may remember your grandparents making like Buttermilk, Chocolate Chess, Goober, and Lemon Meringue pies. In addition to the pies they also have a classic Banana Pudding served in a mason jar topped with a wonderfully fluffy meringue.
5. Cake at Minnie’s Uptown Restaurant
Minnie’s Uptown Restaurant is a Columbus institution, known for its soul food that’s as comforting as it is delicious. But no meal at Minnie’s is complete without a slice of cake. While Minnie’s frequently features rotating desserts, they pretty much always have a trio of classic cakes to choose from. You can expect to find Red Velvet, Caramel, German Chocolate and their cake of the day. Minnie’s classic cakes are the epitome of Southern hospitality in dessert form.
Each of these desserts offers a unique taste of Columbus, showcasing the city’s diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich cheesecake or a classic Southern pie, these treats are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you with sweet memories of your time here. Be on the lookout for part two of our Dessert series because, as you know, there are tons of fantastic restaurants and shops with sweet treats in Columbus, GA.
This story was written by Edna Richardson, and features images from the restaurants.