Franklin County • February 7, 2025
Good morning, Franklin County. When a city's food scene is so hot it makes headlines three ways in one week, you know something special is cooking. Columbus is serving up a feast of flavors, from Mastro's upscale steakhouse making its grand entrance at Easton to BIBIBOP's surprise downtown pop-up that has office workers marking their Wednesday calendars. And let's talk about The Thurman Cafe, just crowned Ohio's burger kingdom - proving that sometimes the best things in life come with a side of hand-cut fries and an 80-year legacy.
Beyond the culinary buzz, our weekend calendar is packed tighter than a Thurman burger. Comedy fans can catch Jessica Kirson's wit at the Southern Theatre, art enthusiasts have new exhibitions to explore at the Wexner Center, and yes, someone actually created Girl Scout Cookie beer pairings. Because in Columbus, we don't just do dinner - we do experiences.
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🎭 Columbus explodes with weekend fun, from steaks to comedy shows! The new Mastro's steakhouse opens its doors at Easton, while comedy fans can catch Jessica Kirson at the Southern Theatre. Food lovers can indulge in unique experiences like Girl Scout Cookie beer pairings at Daily Growler and Graeter's new Skyline chili collaboration. Art enthusiasts have plenty to explore with new exhibitions at the Wexner Center, while vintage shoppers can browse the Ohio Vintage Fest at the Ohio Expo Center.
🥢 Columbus-born BIBIBOP launches first-ever pop-up in Downtown area. The healthy Asian-style chain is testing the waters with a limited-time location in the Borden/Hexion Building lobby, operating exclusively on Wednesdays from 11am to 2pm. Known for their build-your-own bowls featuring USDA Choice steak and fresh ingredients, BIBIBOP is gauging demand before considering a permanent downtown presence. After 12 years and 74 locations across multiple states, this marks the brand's first venture into pop-up territory.
🍔 Columbus burger joint crowned king of Ohio's burger-and-fries game. The Thurman Cafe, a German Village institution since 1942, earned top honors from Lovefood for serving the state's best burger and fries combo. Their massive 12-ounce patties come loaded with creative toppings, including their signature Thurman Burger featuring ham, mushrooms, and multiple cheeses. Hand-cut fries consistently receive high praise from diners, completing what's now officially Ohio's ultimate burger experience.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Central Crossing (5-12) | ||
@ Chillicothe | W 44-42 (OT) |
The Marion-Franklin Red Devils turned defense into an art form, holding Horizon Science Academy to just 7 points in a 62-7 defensive masterclass. While the Red Devils' 4-16 record might not turn heads, they certainly turned some with this dominant showing that had fans checking their calculators twice.
| Team | Opponent | Score |
|---|---|---|
Marion-Franklin (4-16) | ||
vs Horizon Science Academy | W 62-7 |
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