Sage American Bistro
2653 N. High St., North Campus
614-267-7243
Web: sageamericanbistro.com
"I have learned that each and every person that I've ever worked with is part of every plate that I serve," Chef Bill Glover wrote to me once in an interview.
The casually stylish diners at Sage American Bistro benefit from that wisdom and experience, as Glover himself seems to get a chance to lend his expert touch to every well-turned-out plate his modestly sized place serves. I say this because Glover's new restaurant exhibits the same kind of thoughtfulness, care and sensitivity that is so evident in those just-quoted words.
At Sage, the former chef of the OSU Faculty Club has come up with a clever, focused and seasonally changing one-page menu that never misses its restrained mark - and locals have noticed. Thus Sage always seems to have a smart-looking crowd lounging between its tasteful-art decorated brick walls.
There, they wine, fine dine and specialty cocktail on reasonably priced fare that's creative but never pointlessly challenging. Sage is the kind of place where pastas are handmade and graced with duck confit, chestnuts and escarole; even roasted chicken can be compelling; and steaks and salmon are prepared in saucy fashions that make them interesting again.
Plus, on Sunday mornings, Sage holds one of the best brunches in Columbus - check out the wonderful Creme Brulee French Toast, Smoked Salmon BLT and the spicy Chorizo, Black Bean and Sweet Potato Hash - all washed down with a carafe of mimosas, of course.
Runners up: Barrel 44 Whiskey Bar, DeepWood
