There are few things that I like more than sleeping and being at the beach. One of them being the best meal of the day, lunch. Since I moved back to Columbus, I've found myself repeatedly getting lunch downtown in my old high school stomping grounds. In no particular order, here are my top picks for lunchtime in downtown Columbus.
1. Your Pie
Do you like Subway? Do you like pizza? Then you'll love Your Pie! It's the perfect combo of great pizza with the customizability that you love of a sub shop. Plus, they have the cool soda machine that has all the soda flavors. Originally from Athens, Your Pie is a hidden gem of Georgia. Nothing pains me more than going to UNCW without the pizza joint I enjoy so much. The cost for lunch is around $10 and fun for all ages! Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Friday. Located on 1019 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901.
2. Barberitos
Fresh ingredients and vegetarian options makes this Tex-Mex joint a good place for all your friends to meet up. If you're a fan of pellet styled ice, you can get an entire bag for $2 on request. They also serve queso which is a major bonus for all they cheese lovers out there. Bring a sweater because it's usually colder in there. Lunch is under $8 and they have a good salsa bar. Open from 11 am- 9 pm on weekdays; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Located on 1012 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901.
3. Philly-osophy
If you love Philly cheesesteaks and great views, this is the spot for you. Between the home fries and the homemade potato chips, you'll need a friend to join you so you can try both. I like to grab a table at the window because Philly-osophy always has a good view for people watching. Lunch is around $9 and you can get a cheesesteak salad if you're trying to stay healthy. Open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. all week! It's at 1207 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901.
4. La Cantina (Bar, Grill, & Lounge)
What do tacos and a stuffed polar bear have in common? They're both found at La Cantina! On the other side of Broadway is this charming restaurant with a full bar for everyone 21 and over. There's usually a great band playing nearby if you get a table outside. You can eat here for $7 to 8 for lunch or dinner, great for all of us on the college budget! Open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and closed on Sunday! Located at 1030 Broadway, Columbus, GA 31901.
5. Meritage
For those who would like a nice place to have lunches and work meetings at the same time, do I have a spot for you. It's definitely one of the classier lunch spots in all of Columbus. Meritage has the best panini sandwich and soup combo around, plus their homemade chips are the delicious cross between pita and tortilla chips. It's around $13 for lunch if you want a soda, and everyone should get a Coke. It just makes you happier. Open from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for lunch on the weekdays, but closed on Sundays and Mondays. Located on 1039 1st Avenue, Columbus, GA 31901.
If you stick to this list you'll be set for lunch. Remember, always leave a generous tip for your server!
