Fall in Columbus is just so great, we had to do two date night guides this season — because, hey, two is better than one.
By now, we’re sure you know the drill — we’ll pick a neighborhood and give you + your date one place each for dinner, drinks, and an activity. This time, you can swap out your dress shoes for tennis shoes because we’re getting active in Clintonville.
Activity 🏓
Pickle & Chill, 880 W. Henderson Rd.
After months of anticipation, this indoor facility with six courts is now open. If you’ve never played, pickleball is like life-sized ping-pong played on a smaller tennis court, and it’s gained popularity thanks to its relatively easy learning curve. Reservations can be made online with equipment on site, and classes are also available.
Dinner 🥪
Smith’s Deli & Restaurant, 3737 N. High St.
After working up an appetite, we recommend keeping things light + local with a fresh deli sandwich from this 60+ year old Columbus staple. Sandwich options range from a Reuben on sourdough to SuperSmith sub with Capicola, salami, and pepperoni. Sides are classic deli-style with options like potato salad and deviled eggs. Looking for something else? Try the homemade pizza with your choice of red or white sauce.
Drinks 🥂
Understory, 2571 Neil Ave.
This former open air school building has a new life + it’s serving up drinks you don’t want to be absent for. These drinks were craftily curated by the minds at Wolf’s Ridge Brewing + includes high balls made with Japanese whiskey, or the award-winning Daybreak coffee vanilla cream ale. The building has three floors with the bottom floor being a lounge with large industrial windows, lush greenery, and modular furniture.
