Why Locals Say This Columbus Burger Shack Is The Best In Ohio
Walk into any neighborhood gathering in Columbus, and the conversation inevitably turns to food. Ask about the best burger, and you’ll hear a unanimous, enthusiastic consensus: “You have to go to The Thurman Cafe!”
This isn’t just a fleeting trend; it’s a deep-rooted conviction held by the community. Locals aren’t just customers; they’re evangelists for this particular spot, passionately arguing its case for the “best in Ohio” title.
What is it about this local gem that fosters such fierce loyalty and pride? Join us as we explore.
1. A History As Big As Its Burgers
The Thurman Cafe’s story began in 1942 when the Suclescy family opened a small corner bar in German Village. What started as a humble watering hole gradually evolved into a burger institution as word spread about their massive, mouth-watering creations.
Family-owned for generations, the restaurant maintains its original character while serving increasingly legendary fare. The worn wooden booths and memorabilia-covered walls tell stories of countless celebrations, first dates, and family gatherings.
I remember visiting as a college student in the 90s, when the line already stretched around the block. Even then, locals insisted the wait was worth it – a tradition that continues with each new generation of Columbus residents.
2. The Thurmanator
Standing nearly six inches tall, the Thurmanator isn’t just a burger – it’s a monument to excess. This colossal creation packs two 12-ounce patties, bacon, cheddar, American cheese, ham, sautéed mushrooms and onions, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and mayo between two buns that struggle valiantly to contain it all.
Featured on countless food shows including Man v. Food, this 2-pound behemoth has become a rite of passage for Ohio food enthusiasts. The cafe keeps a wall of fame for those brave souls who conquer it solo.
Many attempt the challenge, but few succeed without resorting to knife and fork. A sight purists good-naturedly scoff at while nursing their own food comas.
3. The Atmosphere
Walking into Thurman’s feels like stepping into a time capsule of Columbus history. The cramped quarters, dark wood paneling, and walls plastered with decades of memorabilia create an ambiance no corporate restaurant could replicate.
Sports memorabilia mingles with customer photos and newspaper clippings, telling the story of a place deeply connected to its community. The restaurant’s cash-only policy until recent years and the lack of reservations system speaks to its old-school charm.
Back in 2005, my out-of-town friends were initially skeptical about waiting 90 minutes for a burger. Their tune changed completely when those plates arrived – jaws dropping at the sheer size before giving way to expressions of pure culinary bliss.
4. Beyond The Burger
While burgers reign supreme, savvy regulars know Thurman’s wings deserve their own spotlight. These jumbo-sized wings come doused in sauces ranging from mild to the tear-inducing Thurman Murman, perfect for sharing before tackling a main course.
The pizza selection surprises first-timers with its quality and generous toppings. Their hand-cut fries, crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, make the perfect vehicle for soaking up any burger juices that escape during the inevitable structural collapse.
Vegetarians aren’t completely left out either – the grilled cheese and veggie options might not be the star attractions, but they’re prepared with the same care as their meatier counterparts.
5. Planning Your Visit: Tips And Tricks
Smart visitors arrive during off-peak hours – try Tuesday through Thursday before 5pm to minimize wait times. Weekends regularly see two-hour waits, but the bar area offers first-come, first-served seating if you’re lucky enough to snag a spot.
Come hungry but order strategically. Most burgers can easily feed two people, especially if you’re adding appetizers. Sharing is not just economical but practical if you want to walk out under your own power.
Parking can be tricky in German Village, so consider rideshare services or be prepared to walk a few blocks. The neighborhood’s brick streets and historic homes make for a pleasant pre-meal stroll that builds anticipation for the feast ahead.
6. A Community Hub And A Point Of Pride
Beyond its fame, Thurman Cafe serves a vital role as a cornerstone of its community. It’s the kind of place where the owner still knows regulars by name, and where the same families have been gathering for generations.
The restaurant’s cash-only policy (until recent years) and its famously long wait times were never seen as a hindrance, but rather a rite of passage and a testament to its authenticity. For Columbus residents, Thurman’s isn’t just a place to eat.
It’s a shared experience, a beloved institution that tells a story about the city itself. Its success is a source of local pride, a homegrown legend that has proven a simple, well-made burger can conquer the world.
7. The Ultimate Ohio Foodie Pilgrimage
For food enthusiasts across the state and beyond, a visit to Thurman Cafe is nothing short of a pilgrimage. It represents a a culinary benchmark, a challenge to be conquered, and a lesson in the power of a simple, great idea executed perfectly.
The restaurant has transcended its neighborhood roots to become a true destination. People drive for hours to get a taste of the legendary “Thurmanator,” posing for a photo with their massive meal as if they’ve just climbed a mountain.
It’s an essential part of any Ohio “food bucket list.” A final destination that proves some of the most memorable meals are found not in fancy, pretentious restaurants, but in a small, unpretentious, corner tavern.