Top 9 bars in St. Mary's Strip
St. Mary's Strip, a popular destination in downtown Columbus, Ohio, is known for its vibrant nightlife and lively atmosphere. The area is home to a variety of bars in St. Mary's Strip, each offering a unique experience for patrons. From sports bars and dive bars to cocktail lounges and dance clubs, there's something for everyone on St. Mary's Strip. With its eclectic mix of bars, this strip is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Columbus's nightlife scene.
1. Tycoon Flats N St Marys
Spacious patio, extensive drink menu, and lively atmosphere

Tycoon Flats N St Mary's is known for its exceptional service, thanks to attentive staff and dedicated owners who prioritize a positive dining experience for all customers. The restaurant's outdoor setting is particularly noteworthy, featuring string lights, fans, and lush plants that create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. In addition to the pleasant ambiance, live music is often played, adding to the overall entertainment value of the establishment.
When it comes to the menu, Tycoon Flats does not disappoint. They offer a wide variety of delicious food options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Adult beverage enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the restaurant also boasts an impressive selection of drink options. Whether you're looking for a casual daytime hangout or a romantic evening spot, Tycoon Flats N St Mary's is an excellent choice for a date night.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
2. Brass Monkey
Spacious patio, dog-friendly, unique decor

Brass Monkey is a lively restaurant that is an ideal choice for parties and celebrations, as well as after-work gatherings. It has become a popular destination, particularly on Emo night every Wednesday. The bartenders are a highlight, offering friendly service, great music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Located on The St. Mary's Strip, Brass Monkey is in the midst of an ever-changing scene. The music selection is impressive, featuring 80's new/dark wave and early 90's alternative tunes. The dance floor is always packed, and guests enjoy spending time with friends. The restaurant is known for providing an entertaining and enjoyable experience to all who visit.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
3. The Amp Room
Cozy live music venue with tasty bar food

The Amp Room is known for its unique atmosphere, combining goth and rocker aesthetics to create a distinctive ambiance on the strip. The service at this establishment is commendable, standing out compared to nearby businesses. Additionally, the venue offers a great DJ, reasonably priced drinks, and can become crowded, especially during Halloween.
However, there were some issues with the service during the visit. The bar service was slower than expected, and the bartender's attitude was rude, lacking proper customer service skills. These negative experiences with the service marred an otherwise enjoyable atmosphere.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
- Vegetarian Options
4. Slackers Bar
Unique decor, locally sourced ingredients, rotating taps

The bar's policy of penalizing customers for using credit cards and the poor knowledge of the staff regarding service animals have left a negative impression, particularly on disabled customers like myself who rely on service animals. The bartender seemed overwhelmed when we asked for a michelada, and the 4% surcharge on top of taxes for using a credit card is an added inconvenience.
As a regular patron, I had always appreciated this bar, but my recent experiences have changed my perspective. The bouncer and staff's lack of education about service animals and their dismissive behavior is disappointing and unacceptable. The bar's surcharge policy for credit card payments and overall service quality has impacted my patronage, and I hope they reconsider their policies and improve their staff training to be more inclusive and accommodating to all customers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Hidden Gems
- Happy Hours
5. The Mix
Live Music, Local Art, Outdoor Patio

The Mix is a bar with a vibrant atmosphere, featuring a live surf rock band and games such as darts and pool. It has a cozy patio for patrons to enjoy. The bartenders are known for being cool and the drinks are both fantastic and reasonably priced. Often, people end up at the Mix simply due to the lively crowd and once there, they may stay to enjoy free shows by local bands on weekends.
The Mix is a popular spot on the St. Mary's strip and is often where crowds end up if they have no other destination. Its status as a mainstay and the appeal of free shows by high-caliber local bands make it a must-visit location for many. The atmosphere, combined with the reasonable prices and quality drinks, make it a place where people often lingering, even if they had not initially planned to visit.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
6. Rumble
Spacious patio, local craft beers

Our third stop on Saturday night was for dinner and a concert at a venue situated next to the Paper Tiger. The open-air setting had a lively atmosphere, with a DJ playing music at a high volume. The venue offers various drinks, including slushies, seltzers, liquor, and beer. There are two unisex restrooms available for use. This place is ideal if you enjoy a high-energy and loud ambiance.
The music at the venue can be quite enjoyable, but the cost of the drinks can be steep, which some may find expensive. The price of the drinks may not align with their quality, and the DJ's music can be hit or miss depending on the night.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
7. Little Death
Unique culinary experience, craft cocktails, late-night dining

The interior of the establishment features long community tables with candles, creating a comfortable and relaxed ambiance, ideal for a casual Friday night. It is the newest addition to the Empty Stomach Group, which is also responsible for other popular spots such as Barbaro, Chisme, Hot Joy, and Paper Tiger.
The exterior of the bar is adorned with vibrant graffiti, giving off a bold and irreverent impression. However, once inside, the atmosphere transforms into a more laid-back and subdued atmosphere. While there are elements of revelry and excitement, they are presented in a calm and chill manner.
TOPICS
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
- Hidden Gems
8. TBA
Quirky decor, local art displays, weekend brunch haven

After visiting the dive bar for the first time, it is evident that an attempt has been made to upgrade the establishment, with a noticeable level of success. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a classic dive bar, but with a cleaner and more polished look.
As a local, the bar stands out for its dedication to maintaining a clean and welcoming environment, while still providing the personalized service that is typical of a dive bar. The staff is friendly and welcoming, creating a sense of community that is often lacking in other bars. A few more visits may be necessary to form a final opinion, but overall, the establishment shows promise.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
9. El Búho in St. Mary's Strip
Unique decor, local art, and spacious patio

The bar staff at this establishment are friendly and welcoming, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. This makes for a pleasant drinking experience.
In addition to the friendly bar staff, the outdoor area is a popular spot for patrons. It features games and abundant seating, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a drink. A food truck is often parked on the premises, providing additional dining options for visitors.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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