Anthony O'Connell

Ohio

Writer at 614NOW

Founder, 614feast at Freelance

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Articles

614feast names the best late night, boozy bites

1 day ago | 614now.com | Anthony O'Connell

Legendary late nights loaded with liquid courage call for drunk food worth remembering. Sober or sauced, these bites always hit, but especially after a night partying. Here are five of my favorite spots to hit up when the buzz kicks in:Gemüt Biergarten (734 Oak St.) A beautiful German-style Biergarten with stained glass windows and tons of communal tables. If this isn’t the perfect place for a drunken feast, I don’t know what is.
The absolute best fries in Columbus according to 614feast

3 weeks ago | 614now.com | Anthony O'Connell

Happy Fry Day, Fried Day, Friday! Whatever you call it, let’s eat some fries. Columbus has no shortage of incredible French fry options. From low-and-slow BBQ fries to fast food-style baskets and even a fancy version topped with caviar, there’s a fry for every craving. Here are five of my favorite spots in town that know how to serve them up right:Chapman’s Eat Market (739 S. 3rd St.) Their Beef Fat Fries are some of the best I’ve ever had.
Patio season has arrived! 614 feast names his 5 favorite outdoor dining spots

1 month ago | 614now.com | Anthony O'Connell

Patio season in Columbus is one of my favorite times of year. There’s just something about eating and drinking al fresco, whether you’re people-watching on a busy street, tucked behind a cozy restaurant, relaxing in a hidden courtyard, or soaking it all in from a rooftop. (Though rooftops deserve their own story.) Here are five of my favorite patios around the city, perfect for your next open-air feast.
614feast names the best fried rice in Columbus

1 month ago | 614now.com | Anthony O'Connell

Fried rice was my introduction to Chinese food. It was a simple stir fry from a neighborhood spot, but it was so flavorful and comforting that it felt truly special. To me, it all comes down to the rice itself. I want light, individual grains with the perfect balance of chewiness and tenderness. Fried rice is very customizable, but the add-ins should enhance the flavor, not drown it in sauce or turn it into a mushy mess.
614feast names his top spots for 4/20 munchies

1 month ago | 614now.com | Anthony O'Connell

Leafy greens are having a moment this weekend and no, I don’t mean salad. It’s 4/20, and if you partake (aka get baked) and the munchies hit, don’t get paranoid about where to eat. I got you. If you’re lit and need to feast, here are five of my favorite over-the-top spots to hit up. Club 185 (185 E Livingston Ave) Every word in this menu item hits: beer, cheese, and fries.
614 feast names his five favorite Columbus food trucks

2 months ago | 614now.com | Anthony O'Connell

It might still be early spring (and a bit chilly), but I’m ignoring the forecast and pretending it’s perfect out. Rain or shine, I’m hitting up food trucks to manifest warmer days. Thankfully, Columbus has plenty of delicious food truck options to choose from. Some stay put for easy repeat visits, while others travel all over the city, turning each stop into a mini adventure. Ready for a feast on wheels?
These are 614feast’s favorite spots for cookies in all of Columbus

2 months ago | 614now.com | Anthony O'Connell

What makes the perfect cookie? For me, it’s a chocolate chip—fully baked but soft in the center, just enough crisp on the edge, and a little caramelization magic from the oven (shoutout to the Maillard reaction for doing the most). That said, I don’t discriminate. Thin and crispy? Love it. Thick and soft? Heck yeah. Frosted, stuffed, as big as a frisbee? Absolutely. If it’s a cookie, I’m interested.
614 feast names his favorite local budget-friendly eats

2 months ago | 614now.com | Anthony O'Connell

Eating well on a budget doesn’t have to mean buffets—and yes, the iconic Ponderosa on S. High St. is still kicking. And, yes, happy hour deals are a lifesaver, but that’s a story for another day. Today, I’m highlighting five incredible Columbus spots where you can feast without breaking the bank—any day, any time. Plus, I’m listing my top three picks at each spot.
614 feast taps his top five spots for local brunch

Feb 28, 2025 | 614now.com | Anthony O'Connell

I have a hunch you love brunch a bunch, so let’s meet at noon for something to munch. Whether fancy or chill, meaty or vegan, these five Columbus spots serve up brunch that packs a punch!Understory (2571 Neil Ave) The vibe here is casual, inviting, and has tons of natural light—the perfect spot to ease into your weekend. Start with the Bravas—crispy Yukon gold potatoes tossed in chimichurri, romesco sauce, roasted garlic aioli, queso fresco, and pea greens.
It’s still cuffing season! Here are 614feast’s hottest date night spots

Feb 17, 2025 | 614now.com | Anthony O'Connell

Date night doesn’t need a holiday to shine. I’m convinced food tastes better when you’re in love—and even better when it’s made with love. With the right person, any spot can be a fantastic date night, but I’ve narrowed it down to five personal favorites that are perfect for a first date or your hundredth. Let’s get into it!Lola & Giuseppe’s Trattoria (100 Granville St) Cute, cozy, and always lively, this spot offers warm, welcoming vibes and some of the best pasta in Columbus.