Good vibe, good music, employees are nice. My drink was good (the peach crush). I'm sad I missed drag night but I'm an out of towner so I didn't know about it but would have looooved to go. Definitely a chill spot where you don't have to worry about too much which is nice. Would totally come back if I lived closer! read more

Union Café has been a Columbus staple for decades and is well known for strong drinks, brunch, karaoke, and being a welcoming LGBTQIA+ space in the Short North. It had been years since my last visit, so I was excited to come back. One thing that caught us off guard was the ordering process. We bounced between inside and the patio a couple of times trying to figure out where to check in, get menus, and place an order. Eventually we learned that orders are placed at the bar rather than through traditional table service. Once we figured it out, everything went smoothly, but it wasn't immediately obvious. For drinks, we ordered a Green Tea Shot and a Green Tea Cocktail. Both were strong, well-made, and exactly what I'd expect from Union Café. Food was more hit-or-miss. Years ago, the Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla was my go-to order. This version arrived hot, cheesy, and loaded with filling, but the chicken seemed very different from what I remembered. The texture reminded me of canned chicken, and it lacked the seasoning and flavor that made the older version memorable. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't the quesadilla I came back hoping for. I also ordered the half Apple Orchard Salad. It looked great and included apples, feta, candied pecans, dried cranberries, and raspberry vinaigrette. The ingredients worked together fine, but I wouldn't personally pay $6 for the half or $12 for the full again. It felt overpriced for what it delivered. The standout item was the Loaded Tots. Crispy, hot, cheesy, topped with bacon and chipotle crema, and easily the best thing we ordered. No complaints there. Overall, Union Café still shines when it comes to atmosphere, drinks, patio seating, and community presence. I just wish the food had lived up to the memories that brought me back in the first place. read more

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Great experience. specifically the drag show on the date 4/19 cherry poppins. WOW host was great . Best ever.

been Here Several Times in Yrs. Past, it was Always Packed and the Food was Good...but it has gone WAY Downhill !! a Friend was in Town from San Antonio so I Drove over from Dayton to meet Him, I suggested Union Cafe cause He wanted to eat at a Gay Establishment (even though every place in the Short North is Gay Friendly). I should've known something was up when One, there was hardly anyone in there and Two, when the Bartendist came over to greet us stating there was No Servers and we could order a the Bar. I got Alfredo w/Shrimp it was like GLUE All stuck together and wasn't good at All ! My Friend got Chicken Tenders and He said the only thing good was the Fries (but then again Who can F Up Fries) needless to Say, We Didn't Eat much cause it was So Gross !! My suggestion is to Walk (No Run) Past this Place and Go to "the Press Grille" down the Block... read more

Came here for brunch on Sunday. Yes it is packed because of the drag show. Their menu was hardly readable. So I looked on my phone. I got the breakfasts sandwich and a mimosa. Overall I really liked the food and the show. I just wish we were better seated on the left side of the restaurant. We only got glimpses of the drag queens. Thanks! read more

Union Cafe - Breakfast sandwich - Gay Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Another visit to Union! I went with my mama for a Sunday lunch, and we tried all the fried things. No drinks for us, but we had calamari, cheese curds, and a couple of other things. This review update is really for the calamari because they may be my favorite I've had recently! They are in chunks and seem more meat-y and substantial than when you have a ton of tentacles covered in batter. I would go back just for the calamari. read more

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I've been here numerous times for dinner and or brunch. Always an enjoyable time. Stopped in on a Monday night for karaoke and although I didn't sing I was impressed with the crowds love and support of the singers. Great drinks and friendly servers a plus. read more

Stopped in for lunch during the week and it was nice to not have to fight any crowds. I came in with a coworker and we were hoping to hop onto a call and have lunch at the same time. The two people working were so sweet to us and helped us find a table that would be closest to the WiFi router for a better connection - thank you! I had a sensitive stomach and decided to order a sandwich and a side salad. The sandwich was pretty greasy and/or had a lot of sauce on it - maybe some people like a wet sammy, but it really wasn't for me. I did take a few bites and it was pretty good despite the grease/wetness. I also asked for no cheese and it came with cheese :/ The side salad was exactly what I was looking for. I'd be interested in checking this place out again in the future, maybe on a weekend night when it gets busier! Seems like a fun place and again, the people that work there were super great to us. read more

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My visit to the Union Cafe was awful. I went in the afternoon for lunch. Here's a rundown of my experience: I went to the host stand and there was a sign that said "seat yourself". I went to the bartender on the patio and said, "so I can just sit anywhere?" He said "yep. Your server will be right over." I sat down on the patio and waited... for at least 10 mins. No server. I walked over to the bar and ordered a drink, figured I could do some work on my laptop while I wait. I sit down with my drink and start working. Another 10 mins goes by. No server. I go insider and ask if it's possible for a server to visit my table (I almost got up and went to another restaurant, but it was a nice day and I was comfortable and figured once the server came to my table things would get better. Server arrives, sets down a menu and asks what I would like... well I haven't even looked at the menu yet. I also had to ask for water and it was 87 degrees out. HE THEN GOES INSIDE AND TAKES FOREVER TO TAKE MY ORDER. Finally I get my order in. I order an app and a salad. Of course the server brings them together. The salad was covered in shredded cheese even though the menu didn't mention cheese. I was so hungry and frustrated I ate it anyway. I'm lactose intolerant... so yeah, gonna be sh***ing my pants all night. To add insult to injury the other server on the patio seemed to be very attentive to her tables. So, I guess.... Go if you want? Just hope you don't get the twink as a server. I won't be returning to eat. read more

We have been coming here for years...sadly too many nights of "we are out of that " ...it is finally too much. With the Black Sheep down the road...no need to come here anymore. read more

I have been going to Union for years. Unfortunately, it's clear that the current owners are detached from what's going on at the bar/restaurant. The hvac system is broken. People sit in the space with their coats on, sometimes with coats, hats and gloves, because it's so cold in the space. Video monitors have been out for two days and no one knows when the issue will be resolved. Lighting behind the bar has been out for months. The bar decides to play Rupauls Drag Race on Friday when the OSU football, semi final game is on. Every other bar in the Short North had a two hour wait list line out of the door, but you could walk into Union and get a seat right away. So many issues with this bar\restaurant. Management clearly doesn't care about this investment. Owners need to step up or sell. It's that bad! You have an amazing staff. You are not putting your best foot forward to make the business succeed. read more

Everyone had great energy and was incredibly friendly. The prices were good but the food was ok nothing spectacular, drinks were incredibly strong (nothing wrong with that), and the entertainment was fun! Overall it's a fun place to visit but don't go with high hopes about the food. read more

The set up inside is not the created for the drag brunch. We specifically went there for the drag brunch and had reservations and were seated on the side behind the bar. We were reassured by the host and the servers that we'll be able to see the queens and the show from where were seated multiple times. We couldn't see anything. So if they tell you, you can see the queens from the other side, move because you can't. It took two of us asking separately for them to allow us to move to the bar because all the tables on that side were reserved. However, there were plenty of table that were open the entire time. I think it might not be a bad idea to allow people who are already there to utilize those tables if the reservations don't show up after a certain time. The queens were really nice. They had a lot of friends in the audience so there was a lot of rapport going on. As for the food, it's not good. We had a vegan in our group and the only vegan thing they have is the tater tots. And others that ordered food didn't really enjoy it. The drinks are fine. Don't sit on the side behind the bar if going for the drag brunch. read more

Union is always a good time! We were able to be seated outside and the Covid precautions were relatively good. They have good drink prices pretty much any time of day and day in general. I don't usually order food here, but it was good. Your average bar food. Come here if you are looking for a good time with decently priced drinks in the heart of Short North! read more

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Cousins trip to Union Cafe, we had reservations, but the sign says seat yourself. There were a few of us and no tables large enough for us to sit together. We sat outside on a covered patio. We were able to sit near each other. The drinks were pretty decent. The food was ok. The home fries, terrible. Daughter's omelet was made incorrectly, they gave her a shot while she waited 15mins for a new one. The server was very pleasant in dealing with us. read more

Loved this! Really cool vibe, food was delicious and loved my cold brew. I did not get the famous sweet bites but I got fried chicken sandwich with the spicy bacon. Yum! read more

Denies service dogs when it's convenient for them. I asked why and they said my service animal didn't look like a service animal.

Came here for the Drag Race finale with some friends. It was my first time but it won't be my last! They have an extensive drink list and well thought out food menu. I ordered the grilled chicken quesadilla and a couple cocktails. The drinks take a little longer to get because they're so busy but the wait is worth it. Our server Nick did an amazing job as well. read more

Union Cafe - Grilled Chicken quesadilla - Gay Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

minutes after sitting down, I was told I had to leave because "the manager said I was throwing up in the bathroom" I did not even gone to the restroom nor have I ever been to the restroom in Union. no explanation, nothing. I won't be returning to Union. read more

We came to Union Cafe on a Wednesday which they had a steak special! The steak was cooked well, and the fries were so good and crispy. I loved the caramelized onions that were on top of the steak which is how my dad makes his too so it was nostalgic. There was a lot of food for the price and we got one drink and a friend told us they are a heavy pourer and he was right. Their drinks were SO strong but more bang for your buck I guess. The environment was nice, music and everyone enjoying themselves! We sat outside and it was comfortable! The server was nice and attentive to us and came by often to make sure we were doing okay. read more

Union Cafe - Gay Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Popped in here for brunch. We weren't super hungry but we did get a beer and a mimosa and a tater tot poutine. All of our friends got food and Omg I am so impressed with the food. It all looked amazing when it came out. The chicken quesadillas looked amazing. My friend loves them. My other friend got the Buffalo chicken sandwich and it was huge and so good. Our poutine was delicious. The 14oz mimosas are only $8 during brunch. It was delicious as well. We will definitely go back again and be more hungry when we go!!! read more

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Love a queer friendly spot. Drinks are always strong which is nice. Vibes are good for the most part. Cant speak to the food. My biggest thing to say is just to watch your drink? read more

It's hard to visit (or live in) the Short North without hearing of, walking by, or visiting the Union Café. It's honestly a staple bar/restaurant in the community and it's no wonder why. This place is fun, welcoming to all, and makes likely the stiffest drinks on High St. I can't even begin to guess how many times I've been to the Union Café but I can say that I'm always greeted with a smile. You walk up the ramp to a host station where you can either be taken to a table or have your ID checked for entry. The patio is rather large, has a separate bar, and umbrella coverings incase the sun is too hot. Even with construction all up and down the street, this patio is always a good time. I usually opt to sit out there for happy hour. It's a great spot to kick off the weekend at. If you go inside, you'll discover a giant bar that sits in the middle of the building. One side is a little livelier than the other but as you head towards the back there's a little stage and if you visit late enough, there will most certainly be dancing. As you head to the back you'll run into the bathroom, which isn't the cleanest but it'll do. Now, the bartenders are pretty attentive, even when the place is packed full and they have a large drink menu to choose from. I'm not kidding when I say that the drinks here are strong. The reviews are honest so proceed with caution. All jokes aside, they are perfect. They also have promotions all throughout the week, so you can get drinks for cheap as well. When it comes to the food I gotta admit, I've never eaten here. While I hear all the time that the food is great, I just haven't made it a point to grab grub here yet. I definitely will though, don't get me wrong. The day will eventually come. Until then, I will continue to bring my friends by for a good drink and an even better time! read more

Went today for Sunday brunch while visiting friends in Columbus, Ohio. Very disappointed with the service, the waiter had the personality of dried paint on a wet wall. Food was adequate, nothing to write home about. Service sucked but I guess the waiter knew his tip was already added in, so he really didn't care. That's really what agitated me the most would NOT recommend this place!! read more

Went here for dinner while traveling for work. Super friendly staff, no wait but the restaurant was pretty busy. The service was great, our waitress was very attentive and accommodating. I had the shrimp tacos and kale Caesar salad. The tacos were very good but there was some pineapple in the slaw that was a surprise. Not a huge fan of fruit in my tacos but they were still good. Would recommend to anyone visiting Columbus read more

Union Cafe - Shrimp tacos and 1/2 Kale Caesar - Gay Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

My group of 4 came in for Sunday brunch. Brunch is a buffet served by staff. I was happy to see they served the patrons instead of everyone breathing on the food. The options on the buffet included bacon, sausage links, scrambled eggs, biscuits and gravy, house potatoes, shrimp & grits, pancakes, omelette station and fruit. The bacon and shrimp & grits were the stars for me. The grits were the perfect consistency and seasoned well. My sisters loved their omelettes, I don't eat eggs so I can't speak on those. They have a full bar for cocktails or spiked coffee. If you are in the area I recommend them for brunch. read more

The food is amazing- but the cost has gotten far out of control. After booking a 6 top for new years- we needed to change to 4- we were told there would be no refunds, which is fine- but at the close of the night, we were presented with a $450 dollar bill, in addition to the $300 we paid up front. $750 for 4 people, 2 of which did not drink. No wonder the place was near empty. read more

Elexa H. Horrible service. We asked for things over and over again. I sent back a drink because it died sitting on the bar waiting to be served. The replacement took almost 30mins to come and the. It was the wrong drink. We asked for waters for the whole table. And mustard and hot sauce. I've watched her the entire time just meandering around the bar or just standing around talking to another server also just staring out into the patio. I had to ask another server to come and help us get what we needed. We had to ask for our bills multiple times. Please step up her training or have her find another profession. She's a lot. read more

What the hell happened to Union's tenders? Used to be the best. These are tiny echoes of what used to be. Switch back to your previous supplier! read more

Union Cafe - Crispy Chicken Tenders - Gay Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Service was terrible. The food was mediocre. Drinks took forever. Definitely will not be going back.

i've been a long-term customer of union café since the late 90s. Now new ownership ha taken over and have seen fit to decimate the establishments once great menu offerings. The large plates now are just pathetic sandwiches. They barely qualify as bar food. And the bar doesn't even offered chocolate martinis anymore! I think even Denny's offers chocolate martinis. On the plus side, the staff were sweet and attentive. All in all the union in the shabby shadow of his former self read more

Atmosphere and overall vibe 10/10! It was busy and the manager bussed our table and checked on us a few times and they were also so great! We got the loaded fries, fried pickles, and soft pretzels for apps. All were delicious especially the fries! I also got a burger that was kinda bland. This would be 4 stars normally but our waitress took our food order and never came back. We had to go find her to get the checks. I will def come back tho because everyone else seemed awesome! read more

As a place to get a drink and party it up on a Tuesday night, Union Cafe is fun! We came here around midnight after a concert because we were only in Columbus for one evening and wanted to check out some of its nightlife. Union Cafe was surprisingly active between midnight and 2am on a Tuesday night; lots of folks, a DJ pumping music and a beautiful bar. Although I don't drink alcohol, I was excited to see they had a bunch of teas on their menu. Just as I was about to get one, the bartender informs me that it'll probably be impossible to get one because he had no idea where they were. So....I was SOL and had some water. My friend enjoyed an alcohol ginger beer, even though she really wanted some midnight tea time, but she enjoyed her beer (and drooled over their cocktail menu). We closed the place out around 2:30am and although there was one guy in particular who was super wasted and REALLY wanted to dance with us (and we did)...well, I guess that's part of the territory of Union Cafe. It was fun! Just a wee-bit uncomfortable, since he was clearly plastered out of his mind (my friend insisted that he was suffering from a broken heart). All in all, FUN place to go in Columbus. No food served when we arrived at midnight and it was unfortunate I didn't get to try their selection of teas, but hopefully next time I'll have better luck! Had a fun time hanging here! read more

Union Cafe - Gay Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

They have the BEST food on high street! I always get the chicken wings and potato skin combo , the chicken quesadilla and the shrimp tacos. They never disappoint! They always have amazing service. The drinks are also good. Late at night it turns into a super fun bar! They are very inclusive and welcome everyone. I highly recommend them. read more

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Union truly benefits from its location and the reputation it garnered from a lot of amazing people who worked there. While a few of those people are still there (and are still amazing), a lot have moved on and were replaced by people with lackluster attitudes who act like they are doing you a favor by going to work. It simply isn't the welcoming neighborhood gay bar it used to be and seems to be turning more and more into the mold of the bars around it. A recent renovation during the pandemic certainly helped with the awkward flow of the floorplan. It's no surprise that a lot of people are choosing to visit bars in other parts of the city. read more

10/13/19- Ive been to Union Cafe before for dinner and was pleased but it took forever to get our food. Went in for brunch today and it was a WONDERFUL experience. Went in Around 1015, didn't have a reservation but was seated right away. My daughter and I both did the buffet and it was great. I visited the waffle station and main food area and all my food was really really good. My daughter went to the omelette station and she was pleased with that as well. On Sunday's they don't serve mimosas until 11am though. Great Brunch!!!! read more

Union Cafe - Gay Bars Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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Union is the best on so many levels. Food: so good! Love the options whether you are looking for comfort food or a healthy option. The Hot Chicken Sandwich, the salads, the pasta, the pizza, and especially the Cheese Curds are awesome. I've had almost everything there and it's hard to choose cause everything is pretty darn good. Drinks: I dare you to find a stronger pour and cocktail in Ohio. Even if you are just coming to hang out, watch videos, catch up with friends - it's a great place to socialize and have "stiff one" The Scene/The Ambiance: The patio area is perfect if you to be outdoors, watch folks walk by given the great location, or just take in the fresh air. The inside gets packed after 10PM with plenty of eye candy, great videos, and just all around fun times. There are plenty of tv screens everywhere so I love watching Games here as well. It can accommodate large groups which is nice when you want all your friends there. Union has been here a long time and a staple of the community. It will continue to thrive given it's commitment to great food, excellent service, and diversity. This place makes you feel comfortable no matter who you are and that is why I love it here!! read more

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Visiting from out of town... boyfriend makes reservations just to get sat in the corner of the bar... when asked to move because people kept bumping into us, the host rudely moves the seats to the middle of the bar and walks away without saying a word... mean while there open tables all around us... 15 minutes into our "dinning experience" a straight couple gets sat in a table.. and when we asked to sit there we were told it's only for party's of 4 or more.... Wish I got the hostess name he was rude and very unprofessional... he worked the night shift of March 6. the worst experience ever... read more

Been here a couple times - never to eat but just to stop in for drinks - and we've ALWAYS had fun. Their mixed drinks are STRONG which is a plus to us. They're always packed so they must be doing something right! It's a fun place to hangout and everyone has always been super nice. We would recommend! read more

Went for a drag brunch on Sunday- show was fun! Food was mediocre and drinks were strong!