Walking into The Thurman Cafe feels like being let in on a local secret, even though everyone in Columbus seems to know the name. I’m introducing this spot as a true hamburger restaurant with attitude, history, and zero interest in being fancy. Located at 183 Thurman Ave, Columbus, OH 43206, United States, this place has built its reputation on bold flavors, generous portions, and a laid-back neighborhood energy that pulls people in from the moment they spot the sign.
The menu leans hard into comfort food, especially burgers that arrive stacked, messy, and unapologetic. Each bite is rich, filling, and clearly designed for people who love real food without shortcuts. Alongside the burgers, you’ll find small plates and quick bites that work whether you’re stopping in for lunch or rolling through late at night. There’s also a solid drink lineup, with beer, cocktails, wine, and spirits flowing steadily, plus happy-hour drinks that make the place feel extra welcoming during the afternoon crowd shift.
Service options keep things flexible, which is a big win for regulars and first-timers alike. You can settle in for a full dine-in experience, grab takeaway when time is tight, or opt for delivery when leaving the couch feels impossible. Coffee is available too, making it easy to swing by earlier in the day or balance out the heavier comfort food choices.
What really defines The Thurman Cafe is the atmosphere. It’s casual, a little loud, and full of character, with staff who move fast and know the menu inside out. Conversations overlap, plates hit tables constantly, and there’s a shared understanding that this is a place built for enjoying food, drinks, and good company without rules or pretension. It attracts locals, travelers, and burger lovers who value authenticity, generous servings, and a space where staying awhile feels natural, especially when late-night food and a relaxed bar scene keep the energy going.
Right Now :
183 Thurman Ave, Columbus, OH 43206, United States
Great place! The staff is fabulous and so nice! The fried cheese curds came out hot and fresh! The burgers are the star of the show. Absolutely delicious and highly recommend this place!
- Kristi Michel -
Omgod!!! So freaking good!! Didn't take pics of everything because I was too busy stuffing my face!! Omg it was ALL so good!! The reuben was on point! Wow!! That burger omg!! The fried pickles!! That pic was after we'd eaten some already!! So yummy ummy!! I was visiting from Texas and so glad I got to try this place with my girlfriend!
- Brei Reagles -
I need to double the stars to 10. First off I'd like to say I've ate here a few times and it gets better each time. The burgers are so big and cooked phenomenally. Has to be the best burger joint in Ohio. Victor is such a a great guy he was my server both times I've been there. I felt like I've known him my entire life and he treats you like family. If you go here please know it's worth the wait Everytime.
- Justin D Canada -
Ok, these burgers are legit. If you are a hungry college student order a burger, if you are not- order one to split, seriously. 12oz to start, big burgers, but super tasty. We had several and all of them were good, get them med well (I usually like med rare, but these are big enough to take a little extra. A family owned dive bar kind of place. Not many tables so plan ahead, they won’t seat until everyone is present. Staff all share waiting duties, so at least there is always someone checking on you, but it is all made to order so nothing is fast, but it is worth the wait. Fries and onion rings were ok, as was the Ruben. Not bad, but stick with the burgers. Beers on tap and some in the can. Friendly staff, street parking. Gets busy fast. You will not go hungry (even splitting).
- Brendan Mulvaney -
I had the biggest burger I think Iv ever had. It was AMAZING everything was great. The service was great everyone was so nice and attentive! The only thing I’d change is when you get that 2 lbs burger if they brought it out on a pizza pan lol. Honestly one of the best places Iv been. Great atmosphere everything was 10/10. Not many places have such a high rating while having so many reviews. It’s for a reason you will not be disappointed!!!!!!!
- Banner330 -
Super fun time at Thurmond Cafe. We had a 40 minute wait but it was totally worth it. Very eclectic place, nice and attentive servers, delicious food. Me and my wife shared a White Pizza Thin and the Thurman Burger, it was a ton of food. My favorite thing were the Battered Onion Straws. Would definitely come back to try more menu items.
- Zane Manzione -
The ideal burger bar, Thurman's is a small space packed with personality. From it's rowdy music to the dollar bills all over the walls, it is a fun place to be and its authenticity is not skin deep. It has a good beer menu, great fries, fantastic onion rings, and speedy yet friendly service. But, let's face it; you can find all these at other places. What is hard to find is a burger as good as Thurman's. I got the Thurman burger, which was packed with toppings. This made for an over-the-top burger which I thought was actually a knock against the glory that is the patty of this burger. It is perfect: juicy, flavorful, cooked-to-order, and huge (their burgers are all 3/4 lb). Next time, I have to get the western burger to really make the most of the incredibly tasty meat in that patty and I hope that is sooner rather than later.
- Ross Fischetti -
The Old Bank Arcade 233-237 Lambton Quay, Wellington Central, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
