Columbus nights hit a different rhythm at MODA Restaurant and Bar, where the patio hums with conversation and clinking glasses after 4 PM. Tucked inside 3100 Olentangy River Rd, this trendy gastropub pairs modern American comfort food with original cocktails that keep guests lingering. From hot honey heat to buttery burger smash, MODA’s menu surprises with elevated, craveable twists. If you’re hunting for a polished hangout with late-night energy and standout service, this is your move.
Hot Honey Crispy Chicken
MODA’s Hot Honey Crispy Chicken is that perfect sweet-heat fix Columbus keeps coming back for. Juicy chicken gets a shattering crust, then a glossy drizzle of hot honey that blooms with gentle spice. A cooling slaw and tangy pickle snap bring crunch and balance, while a butter-toasted bun locks everything together. Pair it with garlic fries and a citrusy cocktail to cut the richness. It’s indulgent without feeling heavy, sized right for patio sharing or a late solo bite. If you love bold flavor with finesse, this sandwich hits the sweet spot every time.
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MODA Double Smash Burger
The MODA Double Smash Burger leans into pure, seared-edge glory. Two thin patties caramelize on the flat-top, building that lacy crust while staying juicy inside. Melted American or sharp cheddar cascades over, with punchy house sauce, crisp lettuce, and tomato for freshness. Fries arrive golden and lightly seasoned—ask for the garlic upgrade if you’re serious. It’s a $20–30 experience that feels premium but relaxed, exactly MODA’s lane. This burger is built for game nights, catch-ups, and “one more round” on the patio. Don’t forget a local beer or a whiskey forward cocktail to match its savor.
Late-Night Signature Cocktails
MODA’s cocktail list brings the buzz after sunset, balancing playful and refined. Expect citrus-forward spritzes, whiskey sippers, and original mixes that complement savory plates. Bartenders move with upscale confidence, dialing in brightness, bitterness, and aromatics without overwhelming. It’s the kind of bar program where you can order adventurous or classic and win either way. Try a seasonal spritz, then pivot to something stirred and spirit-driven. Cocktails land beautifully garnished and camera-ready, perfect for the patio glow. Settle in from 4–11 PM nightly; one round often becomes two as the conversation and soundtrack stretch the evening.
Pretzel Bites with Beer Cheese
These pretzel bites are MODA’s sleeper hit: warm, plush, and lightly chewy, with a gleaming crust. Dip into the rich beer cheese that strikes a balanced tang and savor, or swipe through mustard for extra zip. They’ve converted skeptics and charmed regulars, a perfect first order while the table fills. Sharing-friendly, affordable, and unfussy, they capture MODA’s ethos—comfort made memorable. Pair them with a local draft to echo the malty notes in the cheese. Whether you’re pre-gaming or grazing late, this app delivers instant hospitality and satisfying texture in every bite.
Corn Ribs and Brussels Bites
Vegetable lovers score big at MODA with playful, flavor-packed small plates. Corn ribs curl and blister, brushed with spice and a touch of sweetness, offering smoky snap and buttery finish. Brussels sprouts deliver caramelized edges and bright acidity, a city-favorite bite that wins even meat eaters. Together they’re the ideal mix-and-match for cocktails and conversation. The kitchen treats veg like a headliner, not an afterthought, keeping textures crisp and sauces balanced. Order both for the table and watch them disappear—fast. It’s proof MODA’s modern American angle loves produce as much as protein.
Salmon with Silky Purée
When you want something refined, MODA’s salmon shines. A lacquered glaze meets a perfectly seared crust, giving way to tender, flaky fish. It’s plated over a silky, rich purée that ties every element together, with seasonal accents for color and contrast. The dish reads upscale but feels welcoming, exactly right for hotel-lobby chic. Pair with a crisp white wine or a botanical gin cocktail to highlight citrus and herb notes. Reviews call it phenomenal, and it’s easy to see why: texture, balance, and polish without pretense.
Garlic Fries and Bar Snacks Lineup
For a laid-back spread, build a bar snack lineup anchored by MODA’s garlic fries. They’re crisp, aromatic, and dangerously shareable. Add breaded mushrooms with a nostalgic crunch, plus burrata with citrus to refresh the palate. These bites suit pre-dinner drinks, sports nights, or casual hangs that stretch past sunset. The mix showcases MODA’s knack for balancing comfort with a modern twist. Perfect when you want variety without committing to full entrées. Order rounds as you go and keep the patio vibes rolling.
Desserts: Buckeye Pie & Cheesecake
End strong with desserts that nod to Ohio pride and classic indulgence. The Buckeye Pie channels chocolate-peanut butter nostalgia in a polished slice, while the cheesecake lands rich, smooth, and share-friendly. Guests rave about splitting it three ways—sweet enough, not cloying. Pair dessert with coffee, an amaro, or a nightcap cocktail for a lingering finish. It’s the finale that justifies one more conversation and a few extra minutes under the patio lights. At MODA, dessert isn’t an afterthought; it’s the exclamation point on a memorable evening.
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