Northside Columbus saw the exciting addition of two new African restaurants in 2023/24. With each bringing unique flavors and cultural experiences to the area. The Dish African Restaurant and Bar and Zongolink African Restaurant have quickly become favorites among locals and visitors alike, offering a taste of West Africa’s rich culinary heritage.

The Dish African Restaurant and Bar , which on opened on August 12th, 2023 is located on E. Dublin Granville Rd., specializes in authentic Ghanaian cuisine. At The Dish, diners can indulge in standout offerings like fried yams paired with crispy fried fish and the ever-popular Ghanaian jollof rice, a dish that has become synonymous with West African cuisine.
Meanwhile, Zongolink African Restaurant, at 5666 Columbus Square, expands the culinary horizons with a menu that spans the diverse tastes of West Africa. This new location which was opened on September 27th, 2024 complements its existing branch at 2750 S Hamilton Rd., continuing its tradition of serving dishes that resonate deeply with the African community. Among the must-try items at Zongolink are the hearty Ghanaian Waakye, a savory rice and beans dish, and the Nigerian pounded yam with egusi soup, a combination that embodies comfort and flavor.

Both establishments offer dine-in and take-away options, making it convenient for patrons to enjoy their meals on-site or at home. These restaurants are not just places to eat but are becoming cultural hubs, bringing the vibrant tastes of Africa closer to non-African residents of Columbus, fostering a deeper appreciation for the continent’s diverse cuisines.
The opening of The Dish and Zongolink African Restaurant has been met with enthusiasm from the African communities in Columbus, who are thrilled by the growing variety of options that cater to their culinary preferences. While neither restaurant has received formal awards yet, their popularity and the buzz they’ve generated suggest that they are on the path to becoming landmarks in the city’s food scene.
The arrival of these new African dining spots in Northside Columbus signifies a broader trend of increasing diversity in the city’s culinary landscape. As they continue to attract a diverse clientele, The Dish and Zongolink African Restaurant are helping to bridge cultural gaps and introduce more people to the rich, flavorful world of African cuisine.