Tip Top Kitchen & Cocktails

73 E Gay St, Columbus, OH 43215, United States
$$$ Bar
(1496 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to Tip Top Kitchen & Cocktails, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of downtown Columbus, Ohio. Located at 73 E Gay St, this bar offers a twist on the classic pub experience with a diverse menu that will entice both locals and visitors alike.

The moment you step inside, you are greeted by an atmosphere that balances charm and nostalgia. The dim lighting, accented by vintage photographs, creates an inviting space perfect for gathering with friends or unwinding after a long day. Many customers, like Michael Johnson, have noted how the vibrant bar setting exceeds expectations set by its unassuming exterior.

If you’re looking to satisfy your cravings, the menu at Tip Top has something for everyone. Start off with their renowned Sweet Potato Fries, dubbed by Elizabeth Richards as "the best in the downtown area." As you dive deeper into the offerings, you'll find the Blue Ribbon Pot Roast, a slow-cooked masterpiece that pairs succulent beef round with roasted vegetables, all seasoned to perfection—this signature dish is a must-try at just $11.00. The Tip Top Pot Roast Sandwich is another hit, featuring tender beef and Swiss cheese on a toasted pretzel roll for a delightful bite at $9.50.

For those who enjoy a lighter option, the Strawberry Blue Salad bursts with flavor from fresh strawberries, crumbled blue cheese, and zesty balsamic dressing, all elegantly arranged on a bed of mixed greens. The bar's twist on comfort food continues with unique entrees like the BBQ Salmon, grilled to perfection and slathered with tasty barbecue sauce.

But it's not just about the food; the cocktails are dangerously delightful and attractively priced, making them a great complement to your meal. Customers have praised the affordability and creativity of the drink menu, a feature that keeps the crowd coming back for more.

Reviews from patrons like H Z speak to the bar’s authentic vibe and value. With great service and a good selection of tasty dishes, it’s no wonder regulars frequently return, relishing a taste of familiarity in the dimly lit pub atmosphere.

While there's been mention of changes in ownership and menu items, many still cherish the classic feel of Tip Top. As one customer noted, the establishment’s ambiance creates the perfect backdrop after a show at the nearby Atheneum, making it a go-to spot for pre- or post-theater dining.

So, whether you’re a foodie looking for comforting dishes, a cocktail lover, or simply someone wanting to enjoy a night out in an inviting setting, Tip Top Kitchen & Cocktails promises a delightful culinary adventure right in the heart of Columbus. Make sure to stop by and experience its charm for yourself—just be sure to save room for those sweet potato fries!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Popular for
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves food
Serves food at bar
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves happy-hour food
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Dining options
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Parking
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking
Somewhat difficult to find a space
Openings Hours
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Monday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 11:30 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 11:30 PM

Sunday

Closed

1496 Reviews
Darcy D

18 Sep 2025

Stopped here for dinner while in town for my friend's graduation. Old pub atmosphere. Basic bar food but tasty. Sweet potato fries were delicious Large booths to eat and drink with friends.

Michael Johnson

30 Aug 2025

Do not let the outside of this place fool you! Inside is a beautiful bar with much more restaurant seating than it appears from outside! We were seated quickly and our server was prompt and made great suggestions, guiding us through the menu. There was a large crowd that cleared out quickly since most were there to grab dinner before a show. The cocktail menu is very affordable and dangerously delicious! Can't turn down fried cheese curds, aka Bucky Bites, were great. The sandwiches are amazing! The corned beef reuban was huge and had to get a to-go box...that was the perfect midnight snack.

Joey McAlexander

25 Aug 2025

Building was cool. I had the pot roast and had high expectations, but it was fairly bland. Just meat really, it needed other sides or garnishes. I like that it was dark in there, honestly I would have preferred darker. The music was bad and way too loud. The waitress was mostly absent.

H Z

30 Jul 2025

First time here. I got the "garbage mac 'n cheese". It was good. Will be returning for sure. Next time I'll take a picture, oops. Good dark bar atmosphere, good service, good food. The crazy thing was an empty parking spot right on Gay Street, 3 doors down and free. Definitely scored on that one in downtown Columbus!

Brent Hall

25 Jul 2025

We used to come here quite a bit before the ownership changed. Since the new owner took over, they switched the soda to an odd brand, and the prices have gone up significantly. We used to love the fries, but now they’re thick-cut instead of the original style — the menu still says “shoestring,” so that probably needs updating. Also, the original staff are all gone, which is a real bummer. It just doesn’t feel the same anymore.

Elizabeth Richards

09 Jul 2025

Always a good time at Tip Top! The wait staff is always on top of it. The food is always delicious and the portions are big enough so you almost always have leftovers for lunch the next day! There is always plenty of good vibes to be had! P.S. Try their Sweet Potato Fries! They are the best in the downtown area!

H

23 Jun 2025

Used to frequent 10 years ago when I lived down the street. Decided to stop by and the interior is practically unchanged in terns of decor. Dimly lit, brick wall, gold framed vintage photographs. Small pub type feel. Menu in person didnt match the one online - i forgot to take a photo but for instance didnt have meatloaf. I got fried green beans and salmon hoagie. Green beans were great and as I remember. Hoagie was alright - cooked well, bread was a little tired. Used to have better shoestring fries these were bigger regular fries. 10 draft beers, 7 from ohio, 4 from columbus. All in I would say the quality of food has declined, but the prices are still good, service still great and friendly, and I would still generally recommend. For the establishment I would recommend a full site dusting, reducing menu size, and feature more columbus stuff.

Llyallowyn

20 Jun 2025

Obviously a millenial at the helm of the audio experience! I had the pot roast sandwich and it was very good! I actually dont like pot roast, but it was well flavored and my friend insisted. Worth stopping in after a show at the Athaneum.

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