St James Tavern — Restaurant in Columbus

St. James Tavern is one of those rare places that feels like it’s meant to be there. It’s got that perfect dive-y charm—dim lighting, strong drinks, good people, and a vibe that just feels right. The kind of place where stories get told, regulars become friends, and no one’s trying too hard.

It’s also a space with heart. You can feel it in the way the community shows up here—for causes, for each other, for good nights and bad ones. I happened to catch a recent review that felt wildly out of sync with what this place is all about. You know the kind—vague, dramatic, and more about someone not getting their way than anything real. This bar isn’t built on ego or attitude. It’s built on connection, consistency, and quiet kindness.

If you know, you know. And if you don’t? Pull up a stool, order a drink, and give it a minute. You will. Shout out to “Buddy” —best liquid therapist this side of the...

update most recently was harassed by MICHELLE HILL for a car that was parked in HER empty lot between the hours of 11pm and 6:30am. She came to my back door demanding that I understand that SHE is my landlord because she owns the business next door and her dad owns this home and the land around it or something. She then proceeded to attempt to intimidate me making threatening statements as she drove away and stared out the window at me. Haha so weird. She’s allowed her “regular” patrons to steal my door mat, she’s left nasty notes on my car IN my driveway, and now has come to my door to harass me directly. Signs in windows are highly misleading. I expected a slight HINT of kindness and was met with so much rudeness for no reason. Why is this even necessary? This bar is run by a truly...

Loved my first time here! Nice pool tables with plenty of spacing and comfortable side seating. Overall a nice low-key cozy little hole in the wall bar. Good selection of spirits and draughts and some of the best prices in the area. Definitely will be back, especially if I need to do some work in a quieter place that...