Ringside can be overlooked, since its tucked away in Pearl Alley. It is a great place to get a bite for lunch - they are very accomodating if you are on a time crunch, as we were today. I have never had a bad meal there. Today, my friend and I split the Turkey Club and a Greek Salad. The sandwhich was massive and stuffed to the brim with meat and came with homemade kettle chips and a pickle wedge. The salad was equally as large - with lots of veggies and feta!! Even after splitting, we both had to go boxes. The staff is friendly and attentive, even with a packed house for the lunch rush. Also, we had no problem using our BOGO entertainment book coupon. read more

This place is tiny! It's no wonder they can only so burgers and sandwiches, there's only space for a grill and nothing else. We came in right when they opened, and the tables were sticky. But it was water on wood sticky, not dirty. You guys have nice wood tables, you shouldn't use water on it! The burgers were good, so we're the chips. The jalapeno burger was their special in August 2014 and they just add a slice of pepper jack with some jalapeños on top. Pretty good. My burger was cooked perfectly to medium so no complaints there. I just wasn't a huge fan of the taste overall. There was nothing to really wow me. It's a good burger for the price, and I'd go back if someone wanted too. read more

Ringside Cafe - Jalapeño Burger with kettle chips - Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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I am giving this three stars because of the management not the food. The burger was 5 stars in my opinion and my server was 5 stars. Let me explain. I checked the restaurant website, Yelp, and Google to see what time this place opened on Saturdays. Each website said 11am but differed on what time it closed. So I walked over from my hotel and showed up at 1130am for lunch. The door was locked! I called the phone number and no one answered/no answering machine with their hours. No hours posted at the restaurant. So I went to lunch somewhere else. I wanted to try their burgers for a while now so I decided to go back for dinner. I am glad I did. I ordered a ice tea, the Oscar de la Hoya burger, and the homemade Cole slaw. The burger was one of the top 10 best burgers I've had. The meat was fresh and juicy, the bun was super fresh, and it was cooked well. The Cole slaw was pretty good but I was not overly impressed honestly. I would just get the chips next time or try their fries. Overall I was happy with the food. As I was paying my bill I noticed the server was putting away things. I asked him if they were closing early tonight. He said they were because sometimes they have private events. I think the management of this place needs to figure out their hours and get it correct on the websites so people do not show up and not come back like I almost did. I'm glad I went back and if you are in downtown you should stop in and get one of these tasty burgers. read more

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Nice little spot downtown. Actually came here right before we got ready for the McGregor Mayweather debacle, so this was a fitting restaurant name. They have several different burgers named after past champion boxers, although I didn't see a Mayweather burger. I ended up getting the BBQ burger which was really good; it was a little greasy but the burger was perfectly cooked and they were generous with the bbq sauce. I had onion rings on the side which was an add on and these were outstanding, very crisp and some of the best ive had in town so far. This was complemented with some solid brews they were offering. They have a cozy little inside area as well as a patio outside to enjoy the weather. Definitely recommended for groups. Will be back! read more

Ringside Cafe - Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Had the deep fried rueben. Unbelievably delicious. Fries were top notch and service was very good.

DAMN! This is the best little dive bar in Ohio. Hidden away in an alley this bar with amazing burgers rocks. It's capacity tops out at about 40 inside, and about 20 outside when the weather is nice. I ordered the Oscar DeLaHoya burger (1/2 lb of deeelishiousness) with a garlic aioli, provolone, and roasted peppers with a side of onion rings did not disappoint. The Titos and soda was solid and the beer prices were at 3.50 for domestic and 4.50 for import. A true unpolished gem frequented by suits and regular Joe's alike. I am a very happy camper! read more

Came in late on a Saturday night, it wasn't packed but also wasn't empty. Very cool old English pub feel to it, I didn't realize places like this existed in Columbus! Perfect volume to sit and talk and have some beers. Of course had to order a burger- it was very good but also very large. Ended up eating half for dinner and the next half for lunch the next day. Very juicy and good though! This will definitely be my new late night eats spot. The parking is a bit rough and it's a challenge to find the place but the journey is a lot of fun too. read more

What a great find! They were apparently voted best burger in town and the rating is well deserved. Maybe the best burger I have ever had. The roll was especially fresh. It is a small, quaint establishment and well worth a visit. It is off an alley like street but don't let that dissuade you from a visit. read more

Ringside Cafe - Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Hidden gem downtown near the statehouse. The space is quaint and comes with history! The signature burgers are delicious.

Never knew this place existed. In the mood for a burger. Did a search saw I was close by. Might be the best burger in Columbus. Got the "Old School". Combination of spice and garlic was perfect. House made chips were better than any store bought. Washed it down with a ice cold bottle of beer. Sat outside fun people watching. 3 people working the place. Good service read more

You do not come here to be seen. You do not come here for the ambiance. You come here to drink a cold beer, eat a big, messy burger, and go home before the kids go to bed. I love places like this. The beer selection is surprisingly wide selection of craft beer too. The service was fast and friendly. My two beers and a burger came to $20ish. Thats a win in my book. read more

Good burger. Got the De La Hoya. Nice quaint bar. Taking two stars off for the confusing bill. You initially get a bill that looks like gratuity added. When you get the final slip after they run your card, the slip includes that added gratuity and states "price before gratuity". Haha. For the record, my bill was $20. Added gratuity was $7. I still gave another $7 tip bc I tip well and was a little drunk. $14 tip on a $20 bill. 70% tip. Got taken for a ride and will never go back as my trust was broken. I did enjoy my experience until that last point. read more

Super fun! Great service, great food, fun place. It's the oldest bar in Columbus so it's for sure a must see. It's got a small, crowded, dive bar vibe. The fries were a must they were great and the service was fun and easy. Would totally go back! read more

Looking for quaint bar setting hidden from mainstream, this is the bar to go to. Hidden from the high street social status, sit back have a beer or cocktail and be at peace with no pressure. Limited space making the bar perfect for personal connection with your party. Oh btw, the food is awesome and service too!!!! read more

Had high hopes of eating at Ringside, it was a big let down. Personally wouldn't recommend to anyone. Chips were burnt, the burger was charred and hand little flavor. Surprised they refer to themselves as the "best burger" in Columbus. Maybe the oldest.. but not the best. read more

Worth a visit since it's the oldest bar in Columbus. Have a couple beers and move on. read more

Ringside Cafe - The bar - Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

I have only eaten here once,it was delivered and I still was impressed with the taste of the burger. I'm a burger guy and love going all over trying different burgers at various locations. I must say ringside has must try burgers, definitely worth the visit! read more

If you're looking for a dive bar with some history, Ringside has got you covered! This place has been around since 1897 and by the looks of it, that's not surprising! Ringside is dark, dingy and located in the desolate Pearl Alley right near the High & Broad intersection. It has been dubbed one of Columbus' oldest and most historic restaurants and gets its name from the boxing theme that it presents to patrons. I have been here for a number of work functions as well as just for a quick and simple lunch with coworkers, and let me tell you, it gets very crowded inside the restaurant very quickly. If the main dining area fills up, they do have a basement seating area, but it is pretty dungeon-like. If it happens to be nice out, however, the outside "patio" (more like a roped off area in the alley) is a great place to sit and eat. Ringside is known for its burgers. I can vouch that they are absolutely fantastic. They are all named after famous boxers (or have a boxing theme tied in) and are all juicy and plump. Their hand cut fries are delicious and definitely beat the frozen crinkle cut option they also offer. Favorites for me are the "Smokin Joe" BBQ Bacon Burger and the The "Duran" Cajun Bleu Burger. The burgers are classified under "heavyweights" but they also have other smaller meals that fall under "lightweights" and "welterweights." Their bar is fully stocked, so much so that they were one of the only places that I found that had the elusive Christmas Ale by Great Lakes Brewing Company. This place is perfect for an after-work drink, which God knows we all need every now and again! read more

It's a contender in a world filled with overpriced, overhyped, and just lame burgers...none of that here. In an area where everyone claim to be gourmet, upscale, and special... they aren't trying to be all of that, and I frankly appreciate it. They are honest, comfortable, down to earth, and I get it. No overinflated burger promises that don't deliver, or overinflated bills to go with it. The atmosphere is very casual, though at a fast pace for the lunch crowd to eat it and beat it. Tasty burgers, and great sides, as Americana as it gets. They do it well, and I'm in and out in less than an hour, while not feeling rushed or uncomfortable. It's a bit hard to find, but worth checking out. read more

Pretty good burgers. I've been here a few times. Today I tried the Deep Fried Rueben. A bit unusual but tasty. Basically a Rueben wrapped in a tortilla and then deep fried. read more

Ringside Cafe - Deep Fried Rueben. - Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

This place is a block from my apartment, and we'd been walking by it for a month now. It was time to give it a shot. Talk about a hole in the wall. This place is the definition! Two guys working, one cooking, one taking orders, for a crowd of probably 30 both inside and out. As we waited 15 minutes for our Miller Lite bottles (why not? it's cheap), we started to contemplate just getting up and walking out. Man, am I glad we didn't. We found what I believe to be the best burger in Columbus. Far better than Thurman's, and even better than Graffiti. A hand-formed masterpiece on a perfect bun with super fresh, probably locally-grown toppings and a side of home made chips. It was perfect. PERFECT. Now just speed up your damn service already! We'll be back. read more

Solid burger joint located down the very cool Pearl Alley in the heart of downtown. Patio is fantastic for people watching an eclectic mix of society, especially on a nice Friday afternoon during the hustle & bustle of Pearl Market. Interior is relatively small, though has a great feel to it. Grip onto one of these massive burgers cooked to greasy perfection named after a boxing legend! Which I love how Ringside named their burgers, but c'mon where's the Buster Douglas burger?! Give some props to the local heavyweight champ with a 2lb behemoth burger!! If you're downtown and want a great burger at a decent price then check this place out, I'll def be back.. read more

I have been to Ringside over the years and always thought - well, that wasn't the greatest lunch ever. Since changing owners, the food and service has suffered. Today was the end all be all of bad experiences that culminated in being told by our waitress as we were leaving that "we don't need customers like you". I'm sorry - I asked for a side of fries and a side of rings and that they come in separate baskets - when she brought our order the fries were on my friend's plate and the rings were on mine - I asked her to fix it and she lost it. Who knew. Never mind that the rings they brought were clearly old and charred with black edges to boot (and I was told they weren't going to charge me because they were the last they had). Never mind that the fries were black-ish. Never mind that it took 40 minutes to get our burgers and we were the ONLY table that was being waited on (the other party in the place had their meals). I admit that we all can have bad days, but I don't think it is EVER okay for the waitstaff to cuss at a customer. No matter how bad your day has been going. I'll never go back there again. read more

If you are into no frills and you love a good burger, then Ringside Cafe is a must experience. It has been voted The Best Burger in Columbus and it is one of the oldest watering holes still operating in the CBus. The space is small and shocker....old, but the service is friendly and our food was really delicious. I ordered the Cajun chicken and it may be the best chicken sandwich I have had in years. It definitely has a kick. I tamed it down with an ice cold Stella. My fiancé ordered the BBQ Burger, because the burgers have been voted The Best in Columbus. When I'm Rome. He was not only impressed with the taste, which he said is truly one of the best burgers he has had, but he was impressed with the actual size of the patty. They do not skimp on the meat. He also said it was cooked to the exact temp he requested, medium well but with a limelight line of pink in the middle. Perfection. We will be back! read more

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I have been living a stone's throw from Ringside for almost a year and just yesterday got carryout for lunch. Had the Jack Dempsey (standard burger with American, lettuce, mustard, mayo-I held the mayo), and onion rings. It was really good. The burger was cooked correctly, onion rings were very crispy, and the lettuce was shredded, which is far superior to leaves that wilt on the meat. Only complaint is there was no sauce for the rings. I would eat there next time instead of getting to go, so I can eat it hot off the grill. I see the CPD eat here a lot, so that's a seal of approval. read more

We came here on a Wednesday night with a hankerin' for burgers, and were the only people in the place! Maybe it's the location? I mean, they're tucked in Pearl Alley with no signage to be seen, other than the laminated paper on the door listing their hours. But whatever the reason, people are missing out if they pass by Ringside. We had a Cesar salad to start. It was huge,plenty for both of us, and they don't skimp on any of the toppings. We each ordered a burger. I had the bbq bacon burger, and my guy had the haymaker. We both devoured them, no time for swappin' bites! The fires were super crispy, the onion rings were delish, and the price was right! I'll pick this place over that OTHER burger joint- where you have to wait an hour for a seat- any day! read more

A few of us went here during lunchtime, and I was surprisingly happy with what they had to offer. The BBQ burger I had was cooked very well and the sauce was quite tasty. I feel like it was a proportionately-sized meal, even though they skimped on the home-made chips, and service time was average (for the lunch rush). The place tends to be a bit stuffy at times. The layout is a bit cramped; I'd say if it is nice and the outdoor seating is available, sit there. This place has a certain appeal and intrigue to it. I really want to go back to experience it again. I have the slightest feeling it'll bump the 3* to a 4*. read more

My girlfriend and I stopped here on Saturday, the food was delicious, I had the deep fried Reuben. It was probably one of the best Reuben sandwiches I have ever eaten. The inside was very cool, with a boxing theme, you can tell the place has been around for awhile. Its located right across the street from the Statehouse. I highly recommend eating there. read more

Ringside Cafe - Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

The oldest bar in town all the old building vibe I love. Great burger and onion rings. The fries are hand cut daily. The burger was amazing. Beer selection was great. Go down stairs to step into another time. Good club sandwich and Greek salad. The plumbing in the men's room could use some updating. read more

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The last time I checked in here I became duchess. Small problem though; after 20 minutes with no service I had to leave. I only get an hour for lunch, and my office is pretty strict. I had to get lunch somewhere else. It seemed that day there was only one server for the entire restaurant, both the inside and the patio. He was very apologetic when we left. Unfortunately, now that I think about it, he is the only server I have ever seen working at the restaurant. (I think he might be the owner but he's always so busy I've never had a chance to talk to him.) This can't be right, I'm hoping someone just called in sick that day. There are way too many tables for just one person. That being said, the food is always really good. I usually get a burger, and it is a seriously good burger. The beef is cooked perfectly and the buns are soft and fresh. The best part: burgers are $3 off for state employees on Mondays and Wednesdays. They aren't that expensive to begin with so this is great. The building is pretty interesting, tucked into Pearl Alley. It's not that convenient if you don't work downtown, but lucky for me I do. I will definitely try them again. Hopefully they will have an extra server next time. read more

I been hearing about this spot since I moved here, but for the lfie of me couldn't figure out where it was. I was downtown one day starving, so I decided to find a bite to eat, went through this alley and to my surprise here it stood ringside cafe lol. Went inside and thought it was a interesting spot, has a dive bar look but they treat you well. Had a big appetite so I decided to order a tko burger, which is a 1.5 lbs burger plus a double order of fries, and I have to say given the size I wasn't expecting a good tasting burger boy was I wrong. They brought it out and the burger looked great, like a burger you would pull off your grill at home (or better giving your cooking experiece). But this burger led me to a dilemma, I have ate at thurmans before this place(not the same day but at a different time). And I have to say if I ate here first this would be my burger spot in town. But I highly recommend this spot for a great burger, and a good beer to drink prices are some of the best in town, which is shocking being downtown. read more

Excuse me, Ringside... where in the heck did you come from? I have been here like a decade, lived downtown even and we have never met. I don't understand- were you avoiding me? Hiding your wonderfulness for some reason? No matter, I know where you are now and I will never let you go. I live a block and a half from Thurman's. I will get in my car and go here for a burger instead. Ringside is cramped, slightly sticky, and dark inside. It is kind of like going to a frat house (if hipsters had frat houses) for a meal. However, the service is prompt, efficient and friendly. The food is damn amazing (the selection is limited, because that is a sign that you truly know what the hell you are doing). This is not a place to go on a diet. You will regret it in the morning, but unlike most things- it will be worth it. read more

Setting foot into the Ringside Cafe is like taking a trip into history. Like an English pub, the atmosphere and decor are subdued. Hard wood adorns the walls as dim lighting establishes a relaxed ambience. The food is, suitably, standard bar fare with an emphasis on hamburgers. Naturally, I had one of the burgers that came with bacon, cheese and barbecue sauce. I also got a side of onion rings for an additional charge. The burger was overall really good. The bacon was crisp and the barbecue sauce was delicious. The burger patty itself was cooked perfectly but the ground meet was quite fatty, even for a burger. The onion rings would probably have been great if they were at all drained after frying. Bleeding grease rendered the rings inedible. Overall a good choice that is definitely worth checking out for both its history and food... Just be weary of the onion rings. read more

This spot harkens to old boxing nostalgia. There's where the magic ends. It was cramped, dark and dirty. I seriously wondered if my food had been prepared in a sanitary environment. I had a portabello burger which was disgusting and far too wet. My friends enjoyed their burgers, even one commenting that it was the best burger she'd had. She'll probably return, but I, for one, will not. read more

Ringside resides in the darkness of Pearl Alley just north of the statehouse and adjacent to the Rhodes Tower. It's smallish dark bar with great old wood paneling, a vintage bar, stained glass windows and a great staff. These guys know how to run a bar. Think Cheers. Good drink prices as well. The food is also very good on the spectrum of bar food. The hamburgers are the highlight of the menu. High quality fresh beef hand pressed into big patties with great toppings. There is also an outdoor patio which can be very nice when the weather permits and the downtown outdoorsmen leave you alone. I give a high recommendation to Ringside whether you are grabbing lunch or looking for a quiet friendly bar to hang out at night downtown. read more

Best burger I have ever had. Not sure what they put in this beef but it is delicious. Took a coworker who is vegitsrian and he had the veggie burger and can't wait to go back. The restaurant is tucked back in an alley and has been there for a long time. The staff is always attentive and friendly. The place is pretty small though so can be tough to get a seat during busy times. I recommend this gem to anyone that's in the area. read more

Really, my review could be Bryant's for tips & overview. Go read his review, too. This corner bar is OLD and DIVEY. Definitely a small operation, with just enough room to push through. (The bathrooms are so small that you have to turn around when you step in to shut the door. Kinda not kidding. AT ALL.) However, the food here is good, the clientele varied, and it's a lot of food at a reasonable price. You'll rub elbows (literally) with politicos, construction workers, college kids, and those of us lucky enough to slip out for an early lunch. It can get hot, it can get tight, and you might need to make friends to get to and from the door. Keep your group small, be cool about the service - friendly but not overbearing because they're wading through the crowd, too - and enjoy giant burgers and sandwiches galore. I had the portobello sandwich, and it was great, fresh ingredients and good marinade. Most things come with kettle chips, but you can get fries, onion rings, etc. for an upcharge. I've not had a salad here, and I'm not going to have one given all the other options. No one comes to Ringside for a light lunch or a nibble! Other pluses: reasonably priced, good happy hour, open late, alley patio. A long-haul dive bar tucked right in the heart of downtown Columbus. read more

Round 1: This place is instantly interesting. As the oldest bar in Columbus, it's wood- filled interior, stained glass windows, and little booths give it a lot of credibility. Round 2: Still feeling each other out, Ringside shows me a list of sandwiches that include a Deep Fried Reuben, but my goal is clear...burger. Round 3: Everything is named after a boxer and everything sounds great. I land on the Smokin Joe with it's BBQ sauce and bacon. Round 4: Joe comes out swinging with a sweet & tangy sauce, crispy bacon, a grilled bun, and a crunchy-edged piece of cow that might be the best in town! Round 5: I'm unleashing a fury of bites as I thoroughly enjoy this burger! Adding some of my wife's coleslaw makes it even better. Round 6: Starting to struggle. Joe is beginning to hit back. Round 7: KNOCKOUT! Joe's 1/2 pound of hamburger happiness gets the best of me and I have to throw in the napkin...uhh towel. While Joe emerged victorious, I think I was the real winner tonight as Ringside brought great atmosphere, great prices, and great food! read more

Good burgers First time I tried to go here was late monday night but I guess their summer hours are different from what is listed on yelp. Anyways tried them out for lunch. It sits on Pearl which can be quite creepy. Inside is small, the dark wood and stain glass windows make me think of an old church. Ordered the smokin joe burger and fries; it was ready pretty quick. The fries were above average. Definitely better with ketchup. the burger was fantastic. The bbq sauce worked well with the cheese, bacon and tomato. If I had to knitpick I would say the bun was too big. Otherwise great meal. read more

This yummy greasy burger may be my new go-to for hangovers. It was super good and service was great too. The scenery is awesome. It is almost like an old church. My friend was too nervous to go in by herself, but it ended up being all business men inside. Not creepy. menu was sandwich and burger based. I am okay with that. I got the onion rings but wish I would have got the chips. They are super large chips straight from potatoes not from a bag. Different beer selection, on draft at least. Recomend. read more