Matt and Tony's Kitchen x Tavern

Matt and Tony's Kitchen x Tavern, nestled in the heart of Columbus on E Gay Street, offers a vibrant and inviting American pub-style dining experience that artfully balances hearty comfort food with elevated culinary twists. This local favorite isn’t just another neighborhood bar and grill—it’s a lively destination where expertly crafted dishes and a warm, convivial atmosphere come together to satisfy both casual diners and food enthusiasts alike.

Step inside and you’re greeted by an ambiance that blends the buzz of a classic tavern with thoughtful touches, creating a welcoming space that invites lingering conversations over great food and drinks. While the setting pulses with a relaxed bar vibe, the menu reveals a kitchen dedicated to bold flavors and generous portions, designed to keep every guest delighted and well-fed.

The menu is a showcase of crowd-pleasers and innovative takes on American pub staples. Hand-pattied burgers like the Bacon Cheese Burger and the zesty Chimi Burger deliver juicy, smash-cooked patties tucked under melted cheese, savory bacon, and housemade sauces served on perfectly butter-toasted buns. Meanwhile, mains such as the crispy Bistro Shrimp tossed in a fragrant basil-garlic-lemon cream sauce, or the indulgent Rattlesnake Pasta featuring baked Cajun chicken and vibrant peppers, highlight the chef’s skill in blending comforting textures with exciting, layered flavors.

For those craving pub classics, the Texas BBQ Burger and Fish & Chips hit the spot, paired wonderfully with sides like golden tater tots, fresh hot wings, and their signature chorizo queso dip. And if you save room for dessert, the decadent Giant Chocolate Cake and refreshingly tangy Key Lime Pie round out the meal perfectly.

Frequent guests rave about the hearty portions and distinct twists that set Matt and Tony’s apart. Joel Kendall fondly recalls savoring one of their standout starters, the Broccoli Cheddar Soup, noting it as “absolutely the best we’ve had.” Another diner praises the thick, housemade mozzarella sticks that arrive piping hot and full of robust flavor. Michelle Christine especially values the attentive, friendly service paired with a comfortable ambiance, although she suggests a tweak away from political TV stations to make the vibe even more universally inviting.

Naor Wallach encapsulates the overall spirit perfectly: “Huge portions served here make sure you don’t leave hungry!” Whether indulging in the unusual but delicious coleslaw with blue cheese, or the innovative buffalo chicken sandwich layered with pimento cheese, it’s clear that Matt and Tony’s Kitchen x Tavern crafts every dish with care and a nod to bold flavor combinations.

Whether you're a downtown Columbus local or just visiting, stepping into Matt and Tony’s promises an unapologetically satisfying dining experience where friendly service meets a menu full of delicious surprises, all served in a warm and spirited pub setting. Expect to leave with a full belly, happy palate, and plans to return very soon.