Best of Westerville: What are students' favorite places?

What are the best donuts? Best pizza? Best breakfast? From Oct. 21 to Nov. 1, T&C Media collected students' input on their favorite places in the Westerville area. With over two dozen businesses included, students voted on several categories: Here are the winners.  

Best Donuts – Schneider's Bakery (6 S. State St.) 

Schneider’s Bakery is family-owned-and-operated bakery that has been part of the Westerville community for decades. Located in Uptown Westerville since 1957, Schneider's Bakery is known for the Otterbein campus “Midnight Donut Run” tradition. Schneider's also has unique double twist glazed donuts and many other homemade baked goods. 

Best Breakfast – Westerville Grill (59 S. State St.) 

Westerville Grill took the top spot for best breakfast. This local “classic American diner” is a short walk from campus for students looking to grab some breakfast. In addition to all-day breakfast, Westerville Grill also includes lunch and dinner dishes on the menu, along with a selection of beers.  

Best Health & Nutrition – Uptown Nutrition (100 S. State St. Suite G) 

By a thin margin of one vote, Uptown Nutrition won in the category of best health and nutrition. The protein and energy bar recently opened in July of this year and offers a variety of refreshments, including protein shakes, tea and iced coffee.

Honorable Mention – Everbowl (14 S. State St.) 

Everbowl nearly tied for best health and nutrition. This restaurant chain features acai bowls and smoothies made from natural ingredients. 

Best Chicken – Hot Chicken Takeover (435 Polaris Parkway Suite 101) 

With six locations in the Columbus area, Hot Chicken Takeover has been taking over Ohio, and it took over the chicken category for first place and this chain is known for its Nashville hot chicken. 

Best Pizza  - Cardinal Pizza (10 E. Main St.) 

In a battle of pizzas in the Westerville area, Cardinal Pizza came out on top. Located on Main Street, just a stone's throw away from Otterbein, Cardinal Pizza has been serving up New York Style pizza to Westerville residents since 2019.

Best Study Places – Java Central (20 S. State St. Unit B) 

Java Central has been part of the Westerville scene since 2007, and Otterbein students voted it as the best study place. Its uptown location and coffee shop vibe make for a change in scenery for students who prefer to get out while studying. Java also has several rooms and seating arrangements, providing spaces for students whether they prefer to study quietly or while socializing.  

Best Bite between Classes - City Barbeque (600 S. State St.) 

On the corner of State Street and Schrock Road, City Barbeque has won for best bite between classes. City Barbeque offers traditional barbecue along with sides such as cornbread and collard greens. As a Columbus-raised restaurant with many locations surrounding the Columbus area, it's only a short drive for students. 

Best Place to take Your Parents - Northstar Cafe (109 S. State St.) 

Northstar Cafe was voted as the best place to take your parents. With five locations around Ohio, the restaurant has been open to the Westerville community since 2017. Whether it's breakfast, lunch or dinner, Northstar Cafe won't disappoint.