Carole Terwilliger Meyers's Blog, page 8

Charleston, West Virginia: Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream+Taylor Books; restaurant review+things to do

Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream   225 Capitol St., (304) 343-6488.  M-Thur 11am-8pm; F-Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 11am-5pm.

exterior of Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream in Charleston, West Virginia
Counter-service in this crisp ice cream parlor-cafe keeps things moving quickly.  It is a great stop for a salad or sandwich, but don’t miss the soup of the day with a side of local Charleston bread.  From an array of housemade ice cream flavors, I picked Butter Pecan and wasn’t sorry.  Flavors change regularly, but folks say it is worth the wait for Espresso Oreo and Guinness.  Gluten-free and dairy-free options are also available.  All this and really nice servers, too!

interior of Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream in Charleston, West Virginia

soup and bread at Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream in Charleston, West Virginia [image error]



And just across the street is:
Taylor Books   226 Capitol Street, (304) 342 1461.  M-Thur 7am-8pm, F 7am-10pm, Sat 9am-10pm, Sun 9am-5pm.

exterior of Taylor Books in Charleston, West Virginia
This Charleston institution opened in 1995.  More than just a bookstore, in addition to selling books it schedules readings and live music.  Also, local artists are exhibited in a gallery space, and a small cafe serves coffee, pastries, and locally brewed beer.

interior of Taylor Books in Charleston, West Virginia

art gallery at Taylor Books in Charleston, West Virginia


cafe at Taylor Books in Charleston, West Virginia


More things to do in Charleston, West Virginia.

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images ©2019 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Charleston, West Virginia: Noah’s Restaurant & Lounge; restaurant review

Noah’s Restaurant & Lounge   129 Summers St., (304) 343-6558.  D Tu-Sat. 

entrance to Noah's Restaurant & Lounge in Charleston, West Virginia

Featuring a clean-lined contemporary decor, this restaurant features an accomplished and well-regarded chef, Noah Miller.  The limited menu changes regularly, and when my group of three dined here offered  only three main course choices.  We started by sharing two tasty appetizers:  Indian-style spiced ground lamb kofta balls and watermelon salad with arugula and Feta cheese in a balsamic vinaigrette dressing.  My main was a beautifully presented crab-crusted scallop tempura that was succulent and delicious.  I’d love to enjoy this dish again.  My companions both ordered pan-roasted halibut with baby potatoes and Brussels sprouts and were also pleased.  (The other main this night was a beef filet with potato, asparagus, and house-made Worcestershire.)  We were all pleased with a dessert peach poached in wine and served with three spoons, and
left satisfied and already talking about a return visit.

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dining room at Noah's Restaurant & Lounge in Charleston, West Virginia

Indian-style ground-lamb appetizer at Noah's Restaurant & Lounge in Charleston, West Virginia

watermelon salad with arugula and Feta cheese at Noah's Restaurant & Lounge in Charleston, West Virginia

crab-crusted scallop tempura at Noah's Restaurant & Lounge in Charleston, West Virginia

halibut plate at Noah's Restaurant & Lounge in Charleston, West Virginia

poached peach at Noah's Restaurant & Lounge in Charleston, West Virginia


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images ©2019 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Charleston, West Virginia: Sunrise Carriage Trail; things to do

Sunrise Carriage Trail   Parking available at top and bottom, (304) 348-6458.  Open dawn-dusk.  Free.  Dogs ok on a leash.  Brochure .

entrance to Sunrise Carriage Trail in Charleston, West Virginia
Once this delightful walking trail served as the carriage road up to Sunrise, the stately residence of the ninth governor of West Virginia, William Alexander MacCorkle.  Currently the 1905, 36-room, Georgian-style Sunrise Mansion is privately owned and inhabited by a law firm.

Sunrise mansion at top of Sunrise Carriage Trail in Charleston, West Virginia
In the garden is a monument to astronaut Christa McAuliffe, who was the first American civilian to go into space and who died aboard the Challenger space shuttle when it exploded on January 28, 1986.

monument to astronaut Christa McAuliffe in garden at top of Sunrise Carriage Trail in Charleston, West Virginia

view of city from garden at top of Sunrise Carriage Trail in Charleston, West Virginia

The shady, wide trail leads from here for just over a half-mile down to an access road.  It took me a leisurely hour to walk down.

Sunrise Carriage Trail in Charleston, West Virginia

Near the top, the governor’s ashes are buried beneath a monument to Isabelle MacCorkle, his daughter, which was vandalized and then replaced with a newer version, which unfortunately has also been vandalized and is missing its hands.

monument to Isabelle MacCorkle near top of Sunrise Carriage Trail in Charleston, West Virginia

Along the way is a marker commemorating where the bodies of two women were found during construction of the trail in 1905.  It is said that they were executed here as spies, and their remains were reburied here under the marker.  Legend has it that their ghosts haunt the hollow.  Some of the unmortared short stone walls lining the trail have lovely tops engraved with leaves.

stone engraved with fern on Sunrise Carriage Trail in Charleston, West Virginia

At the base is a pleasant pocket park with a creek and a bench where you can rest and reflect.

pocket park at bottom of Sunrise Carriage Trail in Charleston, West Virginia

Getting Here
bottom entrance:  Just over the South Side Bridge before Bridge Road.
top entrance:  On Myrtle Road just before the entrance to the MacCorkle Mansion, also known as Sunrise Mansion.



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images ©2019 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Columbus, Ohio: Veritas; restaurant review

Veritas   11 W Gay St., Uptown District/Downtown, (614) 745-3864.  D M-Sat.

interior at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio

Chef Joshua Dalton presents the city’s original tasting menu dining experience.  Diners choose from several tasting menus that feature creative contemporary small plates.  Each menu is optionally paired with well-selected wines--a service I suggest you take advantage of.  The dining room is spare, and you can see into the kitchen from most seating, though some especially choice tables are set right next to the window into the kitchen.  My group sat in a comfortable booth, beneath a wall that was covered with an arty take on recycled belts--I could actually smell the leather.  Our sommelier was well informed and gave us informative introductions to each new food and wine item.  I found myself highly enjoying the mix of intriguing food items with the matching wine.  My dining companions and I had a lively conversation concerning the South African Chenin Blanc that I swear had notes of cannabis.

wine bucket at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio
The punctuating surprise of new items kept my group of six pleasantly engaged in conversation throughout.  Here is a blow-by-blow of the menu that night:


Course 1.  snacks
NV Pierre Sparr Rose (Alsace, France)

snack course at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio

NV Pierre Sparr Rose (Alsace, France) wine at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio


Course 2.  beet + chevre + apple
2016 Brooks Dry Riesling (Willamette Valley, Oregon)

beet + chevre + apple at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio

2016 Brooks Dry Riesling (Willamette Valley, Oregon) wine at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio


Course 3.  celeriac + frisee + black garlic
2015 Bellingham Chenin Blanc (coastal region, South Africa)

celeriac + frisee + black garlic at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio

2015 Bellingham Chenin Blanc (coastal region, South Africa) wine at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio


Course 4.  monkfish + prosciutto + hen of the woods
2016 Terrebrune Bandol Rose (Provence, France); but might have been 2017 DILA-O dry red

monkfish + prosciutto + hen of the woods at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio

2016 Terrebrune Bandol Rose (Provence, France) wine; but it might have been this 2017 DILA-O dry red; at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio


Course 5.  wagyu flank + sunflower + pomegranate
2017 Vecchio Marone “Privata” (Veneto, Italy)

Oh dear, no image of this.  I must have been enjoying this wine way too much!

2017 Vecchio Marone “Privata” (Veneto, Italy) wine at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio


Course 6.  gjetost + lychee + sumac
2015 Fritz Haag Brauneberger Riesling Kabinett (Mosel, Germany); now a wine image is missing!

gjetost + lychee + sumac at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio


Course 7.  blueberry + yoghurt + lavendar
2014 Quady “Essencia” Muscat (California); oh dear, yet another missing image!  My, this meal was delicious and the wines stellar!

blueberry + yoghurt + lavendar at Veritas in Columbus, Ohio [image error]


An upscale cocktail bar, The Citizens Trust , is located adjacent and upstairs.  It can also be entered through the restaurant.  This stunning bar is situated inside a former bank and features a high, high ceiling and many seating areas.  When you sit in the huge curved booth in the back, it makes you feel like the small version of Alice in Wonderland.  A popular drink is the Patty Hearst made with gin and sparkling rose, but being from Berkeley, California, I opted for the Luchador with Tequila.

happy group lifts their cocktails in a toast at The Citizens Trust in Columbus, Ohio


More things to do in Columbus, Ohio.

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images ©2019 Carole Terwilliger Meyers; except wine images ©2019 Terry Gardner; group image ©2019 by waiter

Columbus, Ohio: Hilton Columbus Downtown; hotel review

Hilton Columbus Downtown   Located downtown, near Short North Arts District.  Pool; fitness center. 



Opened in 2012, this city-built and award-winning hotel is set in the heart of the art-filled Short North Arts District.  The hotel itself displays a stellar collection of original art from more than 150 local Columbus artists living in and around Central Ohio.  More than 250 pieces are displayed in public spaces and meeting rooms, and in guest rooms--which each have a dramatic ceiling mural above the bed.  Don’t miss the piece titled “Unwritten Love Letters” positioned behind the check-in desk.  The central atrium brings in lovely natural light to the Gallerie Bar & Bistro.  An expansion is planned for 1,000 additional rooms to open across the street in 2022, which will make this the largest hotel in Ohio. 

view down to atrium lobby at Hilton Columbus Downtown in Columbus, Ohio

art in elevator waiting area at Hilton Columbus Downtown in Columbus, Ohio

art on ceiling above guest room bed at Hilton Columbus Downtown in Columbus, Ohio

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images ©2019 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Columbus, Ohio: Visit German Village/What to Do in German Village; things to do

Visit German Village in Columbus, Ohio

What to Do in German Village



German Village Tours  (614) 642-TOUR (8687).  $15, seniors $12.  Available year round.  The best way to see charming 19th-century German Village is with a walking tour led by a longtime resident and historian.  You’ll hear stories about the history of this neighborhood as you view architectural details of the original brick houses built by German immigrants.  Tours last 60 to 90 minutes, and a portion of ticket sales benefits the non-profit German Village Society.

German Village Tours visits Schiller Park in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


The Book Loft   631 S. Third St., (614) 464-1774.  Daily 10am-11pm.

bargain porch at The Book Loft in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
This charming book shop features 32 rooms jam-packed with new books at discount prices.  Every book is at least 5 per cent off.  One of the nation's largest independent bookstores, it’s still going strong after nearly 40 years in business and is a book lover’s dream come true.  The shop is crammed into pre-Civil War era buildings that once were general stores, a saloon, and a nickelodeon cinema.  You can easily get lost as you wind from room to room, so do ask for a map that orients you to the layout and do also give yourself ample time to explore.  Gift items are also mixed in and include puzzles and even an array of socks, plus plenty of creative greeting cards.  Bargain books are clustered on outside porches.

interior at The Book Loft in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

outdoor bargain table at The Book Loft in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


Hausfrau Haven   769 S. Third St., (614) 443-3680.

exterior of Hausfrau Haven in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
This atmospheric shop was a hangout back when.  The Stones, Eric Clapton, and others were all here.  Now it purveys a fine collection of wine and some gift items.  In fact it is the largest boutique wine store in the city, and is the only retailer to cellar older and rare wines.

interior of Hausfrau Haven at The Book Loft in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


Helen Winnemore’s   150 E Kossuth St., (614) 444-5850.

colorful bottles in the window at Helen Winnemore's in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
Opened in 1938 and established in several other locations around the village before this one, Helen Winnemore’s is said to be the oldest shop of its kind in the country.  Tea or coffee is offered to customers for sipping as they browse through eight rooms of American-made crafts.  Sun streams through colorful glassware, and a wall full of animal clocks wags their tick-tocking tails.  I wound up selecting a lovely little painting of a cow for me and a sweet little cat pewter coin piece for my granddaughter.  This shop is definitely the place to select a gift or special souvenir.




cow painting at Helen Winnemore's in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

my cow painting at Helen Winnemore's in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

embossed coins at Helen Winnemore's in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


Schiller Park   1069 Jaeger St.

path in Schiller Park in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
The second-oldest park in Columbus, this large expanse of green is the perfect spot to while away an afternoon.  Better yet, start with a picnic.  Facilities include picnic areas, a fishing pond, a lighted tennis court, a playground, and beautifully landscaped gardens.  Don’t miss the “Umbrella Girl” standing in the center of a fountain.  She’s especially easy to find in winter, when she wears a red sweater to keep warm.  The park is named for Friedrich von Schiller, who was a German historian, playwright, and composer.  His memorial statue was brought here from Europe.  Shakespeare-in-the-Park runs on weekends May through Labor Day weekend.

"Umbrella Girl" in Schiller Park in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


St. Mary Roman Catholic Church   684 S. Third St., (614) 445-9668.  Finished in 1868, this lovely church has a tall steeple, stained glass windows, and ceiling paintings that incorporate German phrases.  Unfortunately, when I visited it was always closed (once for a wedding in progress).

exterior of St. Mary Roman Catholic Church in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


Three Buds Flower Market  1147 Jaeger St., (614) 902-0403.  W-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 11am-5pm.  Build-your-own bouquet at the flower bar here.

flowers at Three Buds Flower Market in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

my three-bud bouquet at Three  Buds Flower Market in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


Background and Where to stay in German Village.  

Where to eat in German Village.   


More things to do in Columbus, Ohio.

More ideas for travel adventures in California and the U.S. and around the world.

images and video ©2019 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Columbus, Ohio: Visit German Village/Where to Eat in German Village; restaurant reviews

Visit German Village in Columbus, Ohio

Where to Eat in German Village


Barcelona   263 E Whittier St., (614) 443-3699.   L M-F, D daily.

exterior of Barcelona restaurant in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
Famous for its secluded patio and complimentary housemade tomato vinaigrette dip that comes with the bread, this Spanish restaurant usually roars with happy people.  Sometimes it is so loud that if you are sitting in the back, you can’t hear the live music in front (6 to 8 p.m. on Sundays).  The menu includes tapas and well-reviewed charcuterie, as well several paellas--one is a veggie version.

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interior of Barcelona restaurant in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

gazpacho soup at Barcelona restaurant in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

paella at Barcelona restaurant in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

tarta de Santiago at Barcelona restaurant in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


Brown Bag Deli   898 Mohawk St., (614) 443-4214.

interior of Brown Bag Deli in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
Known for its huge selection of delicious sandwiches and salads, this tiny restaurant is located between central German Village and Schiller Park.  It is the perfect spot to pick up a picnic to enjoy in the park.  Bread, filling, and dressing choices are vast in the “design-your-own” category, but a simple PB&J and a grilled cheese are available for picky kids.  I settled in at a sidewalk-side table outside and enjoyed a half-sandwich combo with a half-pint of tasty red-skin potato salad and a juicy pickle.  So many sandwich and salad choices, so little space in my tummy.

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interior of Brown Bag Deli in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

salad case at Brown Bag Deli in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

red-skin potato salad at Brown Bag Deli in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

sandwich at Brown Bag Deli in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
          A mini Jeni’s Ice Cream (900 Mohawk St., (614) 445-6513) with window service only is conveniently just next door, but unfortunately I had no appetite left.  It operates out of a former barber shop.

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Jeni's Ice Cream in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

window at Jeni's Ice Cream in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


G. Michael’s Bistro   595 S. Third St., (614) 464-0575.  D daily.  Reservations advised.  Valet parking.

bar at G. Michael's Bistro in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
This elegant restaurant has a bar in front, with beautifully set dining tables available there and in two larger back rooms.  Though the wine list is inviting, it seemed to me the atmosphere called for a cocktail, so I nursed a classic Negroni through my meal.  My starter was a delicate green asparagus-spinach-garlic soup.  From the seasonal menu, my entire group of three all ordered a delicious, fresh Lake Erie Walleye with potato cake and cucumber salad.  I’ve heard the restaurant is known for Shrimp and Grits--maybe next time.  Dessert was a no brainer--we split the famous bourbon pecan pie three ways.

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dining room at G. Michael's Bistro in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

Negroni at G. Michael's Bistro in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

bruchetta at G. Michael's Bistro in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

fresh Lake Erie Walleye at G. Michael's Bistro in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


Katzinger’s Delicatessen   475 S 3rd St., (614) 228-3354.  L-D daily.  No reservations.

front dining room at Katzinger’s Delicatessen in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
Usually packed with people, this casual spot is as well packed with cheeses and deli cases.  It operates inside an 1827 brick building.  The kitchen prepares almost everything from scratch, however the crusty European-style breads are delivered daily from Mediterra Bakehouse in Pittsburgh.  The sandwich line--which moves quickly--makes and serves every sandwich to order.  Sandwiches come in two sizes but even the small is huge--some dripping with dressing and oozing cheese.  The deli case holds delicious side salads and great knishes.  My choice was half a Reuben matched with a delicious redskin potato salad--all enhanced by a garlic pickle plucked by me from the pick-your-own garlic pickle barrel.  Vegan and vegetarian options are available.  My companion and I also selected some bread, cheese, salami, and more to take home for an informal dinner that evening.

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counter line at Katzinger’s Delicatessen in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

salad case at Katzinger’s Delicatessen in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

back dining room at Katzinger’s Delicatessen in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

bread counter at Katzinger’s Delicatessen in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

cheese case at Katzinger’s Delicatessen in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


The Old Mohawk   821 Mohawk St., (614) 444-7204.  L-D daily.

exterior of The Old Mohawk in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
Though in the past this atmospheric spot served time as a house of ill repute, it now enjoys a great reputation for most especially its real turtle soup.  People do rave about it, but I don’t eat turtles so I’ll never know for sure.  The pub-style food on the extensive menu is consistently good.  The cheese burger seems made to go with a side of tasty fried pickles, but I opted for a half Reuben and half tomato soup and was able to eat most of it.  Additional well-reviewed menu items include an adobe pork wet burrito, a French-dip sandwich, and a variety of quesadillas. The decor includes an old gas pump in the back and a combination of antiques and local artwork that are for sale.  Note that the dining room is small, so prime time sometimes includes a wait.

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interior of The Old Mohawk in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

interior of The Old Mohawk in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

soup and sandwich at The Old Mohawk in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


Pistacia Vera Pastry Kitchen and Cafe   541 S. Third St., (614) 220-9070.

counter at Pistacia Vera Pastry Kitchen and Cafe in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
This clean-lined contemporary French bakery and cafe presents delicious and beautiful pastries and desserts.  A visit here presents the opportunity to sit down with your selection and relax with a cup of coffee or tea.

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pastry case at Pistacia Vera Pastry Kitchen and Cafe in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

seating at Pistacia Vera Pastry Kitchen and Cafe in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


Stauf’s Coffee Roasters   627 S. 3rd St., (614) 221-1563.  Mon-Sat 7am-9pm, Sun 7am-8pm.

coffee roaster at Stauf's Coffee Roasters in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
Featuring seating in a cozy space in the front room, which also holds a giant coffee roaster, this traditional coffeehouse invites stopping in for a brew.  I very much enjoyed here an iced coffee on a warm day.  All coffee is roasted on site, by hand, every day, and in small batches.  Muffins, cookies, and cakes are also available and made in house.  More seating is available in a back space, as well as on an outdoor patio.

order counter at Stauf's Coffee Roasters in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

indoor seating at Stauf's Coffee Roasters in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

outdoor patio at Stauf's Coffee Roasters in German Village in Columbus, Ohio


Background and Where to stay in German Village.  

What to do in German Village.  Coming.



More things to do in Columbus, Ohio.

More ideas for travel adventures in California and the U.S. and around the world.

images ©2019 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Columbus, Ohio: Visit German Village; background + hotel review

Visit GERMAN VILLAGE in Columbus, Ohio

Located just south of downtown; runs from East Livingston Avenue to Nursery Lane, bounded by Pearl and Lathrop streets.

The historic neighborhood of German Village was developed between 1840 and 1914.  It was settled primarily by German immigrants in the mid-1800s, when it was a working-class neighborhood full of brewery workers and their families.  In 1960, the German Village Society was established to save the neighborhood from rezoning, and in 1963 the City of Columbus designated it as its first Historic District.  In 1974, the entire 233-acre village was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Today, the village consists of 1,800 to 1,900 buildings, and very few Germans live here.

lovely front porch of home in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

blooming flowers in sidewalk container in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

German Village is not a recreated historic village.  It is an evolved neighborhood where shops and restaurants are still found among the houses.  The tree-lined brick and cobblestone streets remain--be careful not to trip on uneven bricks and stones.  Shops include everything from a fine French patisserie to a cozy 32-room independent bookstore. Visitors enjoy exploring, and the luckiest ones spend the night soaking up the quite local atmosphere. 

brick-lined street in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

brick sidewalk in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

Information
Tourist Information Center   588 S. Third St., (614) 221-8888.  M-F 9am-4pm, Sat 10am-2pm; April-Nov, also Sun 12-3pm. 
Set in the German Village Society Meeting Haus, this centrally-located information center is stocked with maps, pamphlets, a neighborhood timeline on the wall, and an orientation movie.

German Village Society Meeting Haus in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

Annual Events
Haus und Garten Tour   June.  A group of neighborhood residents open their homes and gardens for the weekend. 

Oktoberfest   September.  Held at the State Fairgrounds, this joyous occasion runs for three days. 

Lodging
German Village Guesthouse   748 Jaeger St., (866) 587-2738, (614) 437-9712.  Continental breakfast; in-room snacks.  Unrestricted street parking.  Offering a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere, these two comfortable venues each feature exceptional breakfasts. 

●The Guest House 748 Jaeger St.  This house was built in the late 1800s and converted to a guest house in 2005.  Today it features a modern design inside but retains the historic look and details outside.

●The Whittier Suites  177 E Whittier St.  Dogs ok. 

exterior of The Whittier Suites at German Village Guesthouse in German Village in Columbus, Ohio
Each of the two suites here is a completely private apartment with modern appointments.  Note that the upstairs suite has a set of steep open stairs in the back that might make it difficult for some people to maneuver.  I stayed in the downstairs suite and was amazed and impressed that a friendly neighbor offered to help me get my suitcase up the few steps to the front porch.  I loved the perfect location, smack in the middle of a quiet neighborhood and just a short walk to the farthest destination.  Conveniently, Brown Bag Deli is just next door, and it is an easy and enjoyable walk to the center of the village and just a block to Schiller Park.  My suite featured a different pastry for breakfast each day, plus homemade yogurt, and big bowl of berries, and more.  Simple snacks were also provided.  Everything was immaculate, and the bathroom featured an unusual slate-lined, walk-in shower.  My only grumble was that there was no instruction sheet for the THREE! TV controls or the heating fixture.  I got very frustrated with the TV and just continued to watch the first thing that “took,” and I was quite cold because the heater had not been pre-set to a reasonable temperature and I couldn’t find an extra blanket.  This is a reminder to ask about these items when you check in. 

living room of downstairs suite at The Whittier Suites at German Village Guesthouse in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

bedroom of downstairs suite at The Whittier Suites at German Village Guesthouse in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

kitchen of downstairs suite at The Whittier Suites at German Village Guesthouse in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

inside refrigerator of downstairs suite at The Whittier Suites at German Village Guesthouse in German Village in Columbus, Ohio

What to do in German Village.  Coming.

Where to eat in German Village.  Coming.



More things to do in Columbus, Ohio.

More ideas for travel adventures in California and the U.S. and around the world.

images ©2019 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Columbus, Ohio: Take a self-guided MAKERS TOUR of Old Worthington; things to do

Take a self-guided MAKERS TOUR of Old Worthington, Ohio

Located just 8 miles north of downtown Columbus, the sweet little town of Worthington make a pleasant excursion.

downtown street in Old Worthington, Ohio
The small center of town is easily walkable.  My visit was all about visiting makers in their work spaces, and these creative business owners are all about customizing their product to the customer’s likes.  Some even let you get involved in making your own souvenir.  You can follow in my footsteps below, which include several places to meet makers and do some making, a great spot for lunch, a restive spot for an afternoon caffeine lift, and a cool place to relax over a glass of wine.



● The Candle Lab   646 High St., (614) 915-0777.

sniffing fragrances at The Candle Lab in Old Worthington, Ohio
In this unusual shop you can buy a candle that is ready to go, or make one yourself from scratch.  The shop’s soy candles are hand-poured and available in 120 scents that include everything from Dark Chocolate to Cake Batter to Papaya.  I chose to make my own and spent plenty of time sniffing the fragrances.  I finally selected the ten that I liked most.  Professionals behind the counter advised me regarding the three that might work best together, and I wound up with a delightful mix of Earth and Sea Breeze and Peony.  I wonder if anyone else has ever picked those three to blend.  My second choice was a more tropical fragrance--Mint Leaf and Mango.  After mixing the hot wax and scents, and naming my scent “On Vacation,” I went on to explore Old Worthington while the candle set, and came back later to pick it up.  When I took the lid off for a whiff, it smelled as yummy as I anticipated.  You can also make lotions, room sprays, reed diffusors, and more.

Clothesline fragrance at The Candle Lab in Old Worthington, Ohio

patron making a candle at The Candle Lab in Old Worthington, Ohio

patron's finished candle at The Candle Lab in Old Worthington, Ohio


● The Whitney House Table & Tavern   666 High St., (614) 396-7846.  L-D daily, Sat-SunBr.

outside seating at The Whitney House Table & Tavern in Old Worthington, Ohio
All cocktails here are named after women.  So you can order The Mary Richards gin with grapefruit or the Katie Has a Beet Tattoo with beet-infused gin and fresh strawberries.  I settled for a delicious EST. 1803 made with bourbon and blackberries, and I was not disappointed; however I’m not sure how that is named after a woman.  Lunch here is a delight.  I was enchanted by a combo of thick, thick tomato soup made with oven-roasted tomatoes and stuffed with rustic croutons, and an “adult” grilled cheese with tomato jam and caramelized onions.  It was such a satisfying combination.  An Ohio Burger made with grass-fed beef and a chicken Cobb salad were among the other choices.  Sunday brunch--when the menu includes chilaquiles, biscuits and gravy, and Ohio French Toast--is a favorite time to dine here.

tomato soup and cheese sandwich at The Whitney House Table & Tavern in Old Worthington, Ohio [image error]



● Igloo Letterpress   661 N. High St., (614) 787-5528.

blueberry poster at Igloo Letterpress in Old Worthington, Ohio
At this combination letterpress printer-bookbindery-gift shop, you can learn how to print with antique letterpress equipment.  Owner Allison Chapman’s father was a printer, and so she too became one.  A modern letterpress printer, she thrives on pushing the envelope and experimenting with the best of digital and analog techniques in custom printing projects.  By the way, the shop name comes from the nickname for Chapman’s home--received because her grandmother declared it was always cold there.  All of the shop’s materials and hardware are locally sourced, and workers here personally cut all parts and assemble and finish each order by hand.









● Highline Coffee Co.   691 High St., (614) 992-BUZZ.

counter at Highline Coffee Co. in Old Worthington, Ohio
This coffee house is small but packs a caffeine wallop with espresso drinks, fresh-brewed coffee, hot chocolate, and tea.  Smoothies are also available.  Among the seating options are window seats, a standing bar, an outdoor area, and a couple of comfy overstuffed chairs.  Scrumptious fresh-baked goodies come from The Flaky Baker, and free Wi-Fi is provided.  These two small businesses share the premises in the back:



● Branch Line Leather Co.   Both leather and wool bags, and accessories such as key fobs and belts, are made here in house, by hand--including the ever popular beer holster.  The attention to detail by the craftspeople is impeccable.  The “make it & take it” program lets you choose the item and style you want as well as the colors and hardware finishes--you can even pick an interior pocket configuration in the bags--and in 4 to 6 weeks your item will arrive just as you designed it.  I chose a key fob in a lime color and was able to help make it on the spot and take it home with me.

interior of Branch Line Leather Co. in Old Worthington, Ohio

leather beer holster at Branch Line Leather Co. in Old Worthington, Ohio

key fob set up at Branch Line Leather Co. in Old Worthington, Ohio

● Shift Studios   This handmade jewelry studio also shares the space.

handmade jewelry at Shift Studios in Old Worthington, Ohio


● House Wine   644 High St., (614) 846-WINE.

interior of House Wine in Old Worthington, Ohio
After all this activity, it is relaxing to step into this wine store and select a vintage to sip while you peruse the wares.  While here, you’ll learn something more about wine and maybe even find your own “house wine” to enjoy at home.  The shop offers over 24 different wines served from Enomatic wine dispensers, and twelve craft beers are on tap.



More things to do in Columbus, Ohio.

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images ©2019 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Columbus, Ohio: Somali Culture; things to do

Somali Culture in Columbus, Ohio

More than 60,000 Somali people now call Columbus home, which makes their community the second-largest concentration of Somali immigrants in the United States.  (The largest population is 120,000 in nearby Minneapolis, and another large group lives in San Diego.)  Most of these African people arrived after 1995.  Columbus has approximately 20 Somali restaurants.  Most of the Somalis continue to dress in traditional style.

Somali men in Columbus, Ohio

Abubakar Assidiq Islamic Center   591 Industrial Mile Rd., (614)-272-9994.  Built in 2014, this is one of the largest mosques in the region. 

women's side of mosque at Abubakar Assidiq Islamic Center in Columbus, Ohio
prayer schedule in mosque at Abubakar Assidiq Islamic Center in Columbus, Ohio

Global Mall   2210 Morse Rd., Northland.  Set up like a true African market, the stalls at this small mall are filled with of traditional Somali clothing and everyday necessities.  A barbershop and popular Somali café are also located here.

interior of Somali Global Mall in Columbus, Ohio
interior of shop in Somali Global Mall in Columbus, Ohio
bracelets for sale in shop at Somali Global Mall in Columbus, Ohio

Hamdi Grill  1784 Huy Rd., Linden, (614) 447-0199.  Daily 10am-11pm.  The cuisine of West Africa is prepared here using seasonings that include cumin, cardoman, garlic, and fried peppers, plus some secret spices and a mix of roots.  Hamdi spiced tea is a very sweet mix of cinnamon, cardoman, and cloves--sort of like Indian chai.  Popular dishes include steamed goat, pasta (Somalia was an Italian colony), chappati, and fresh mango juice.  During Ramadan, the restaurants are closed for lunch but are jumping after sunset, when fasting ends.

menu of Somali fare at Hamdi Grilll in Columbus, Ohio
traditional Somali fare at Hamdi Grilll in Columbus, Ohio


More things to do in Columbus, Ohio.

More ideas for travel adventures in California and the U.S. and around the world.

images ©2019 Carole Terwilliger Meyers