Sit back and relax at SoCal Kitchen + Bar, inspired by Southern California cuisine with fired-up flavors, cool and crafty cocktails, and genuine hospitality in Columbus, Ohio. The menu boasts the freshest fare from sea, garden, and farm using the finest ingredients. Indulge in our sushi and seafood plates or enjoy a perfectly cooked steak. Join us for Happy Hour, weekend brunch, or book a reservation today for your next dinner at SoCal Kitchen + Bar!
Mixed reviews on food quality; some dishes praised while others were criticized for being overcooked or bland.
Service Experience
Service quality varied; some customers praised attentive staff while others reported slow or inattentive service.
Atmosphere
Generally positive feedback on the ambiance, though some found it too noisy or cramped.
Happy Hour
Many customers enjoyed the happy hour offerings and found them to be a great value.
JS
Jia Shi
1 day ago
2.0
I dined in at this restaurant a week ago, and ordered a baked oyster to go. When I got home and opened it, I noticed the bread was burnt and tasted very bitter. I sent this pic to their Instagram account, waited a week, and they haven’t replied back until now. I’m so disappointed
DK
Danny King
4 days ago
5.0
Fantastic! I'd give 10 stars if I could. Hit every metric!
SW
Shawn Wagner
4 days ago
1.0
Had a reservation. Waited 10 minutes at our table. Restaurant wasn’t busy. No server. Got up and left. Big failure. No wonder the place wasn’t full
AV
Adrika Venkatanarayanan
Dec 31, 2025
2.0
We bought a bunch of stuff to try but disappointed that the Brussel sprouts did not come with goat cheese or walnuts as promised. The burger was soggy despite us picking it up within 10 mins of it being ready. Presentation of the food was excellent though.
AK
Angela Kim
Nov 27, 2025
5.0
I had an incredible experience thanks in no small part to the wonderful bartender, Satia. Absolutely no notes! When she heard that I wasn’t able to drink, she took it upon herself to whip up a personal mocktail for me. Great appetizer recommendations. We had the crispy rice and Brussels sprouts. Definitely would recommend and ask for Satia at the bar!
Frequently Asked Questions About SoCal Kitchen + Bar
Do you have a happy hour?
Del Mar offers a standout happy hour Monday through Friday 4 – 6 pm and Sunday 3 – 5 pm with special pricing on well drinks, drafts, specialty cocktails and wine. The happy hour food menu is extensive with a range of Del Mar favorites including Raw, Baked and Fried Oysters, Sushi Rolls, Handhelds including tacos and burgers and, of course, the famous Potato Bread with cheddar, bacon, scallion, and sour cream butter. During seasonal weather, the windows near the bar open to the patio and it’s a breezy, fun place to be on High Street in Columbus, Ohio’s Short North Arts District. When the weather turns cool, the spacious bar has plenty of room for you and friends to cozy up!
Does Del Mar offer cocktails?
Yes! Del Mar is a spirits-loving place where the Cocktail List gets a seasonal refresh. Cocktail ingredients lean to bright, fresh and infused. You’ll find memorable riffs like the Boardwalk Bourbon – a blend of Woodford Reserve, Orange & Fig and Pineapple Essence and creations made with unique spirits like the Aloe-lujah – Ketel One Cucumber & Mint Botanical Vodka, Lillet Blanc, Chareau Aloe Liqueur and lemon. Featured cocktails rotate regularly so do check the Del Mar website for the bar chef’s latest!
Can Del Mar accommodate large parties?
Del Mar is available for private events Monday through Friday between the hours of 11 am – 3 pm accommodating up to 100 guests. The restaurant also has a semi-private dining space that can accommodate up to 26 guests. Our chefs are excited to help you plan a meal that is sure to please! For parties of greater than 6 guests at any time, it’s we recommend calling the restaurant to discuss your plans and complete your reservation.
Is Del Mar a fancy restaurant?
Del Mar is bright, large space with sweeping high ceilings and a variety of seating options from two-tops nestled in the bar area to tables, banquette and booth seating. The vibe is southern California, sophisticated casual with gleaming white subway tile walls and vibrant, large-scale artwork. Del Mar is situated near Short North residential neighborhoods so you’ll find guests dropping in after spending time at Goodale Park, enjoying an after-work happy hour and gathering around a table for a celebration. It’s a welcoming, flexible environment where all are welcome whether it’s a casual or special occasion.
Does Del Mar offer Brunch?
Yes! Del Mar has a robust selection of Brunch Plates offered Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm including Smoked Chicken Hash, Benedict, Burrito, and Açai Bowl. Share a Cinnamon Roll with brown sugar and cream cheese frosting to start! Favorites from the regular menu are available during brunch service – Oysters, Sushi, Soups & Salads, Handhelds, and Bowls. And, cocktails! Enjoy a Mimosa, Michelada, Bloody Mary, SoCal Coffee (local cold brew with amaro, cream and fernet). Check the Del Mar website’s Brunch menu for current features.
What’s Del Mar famous for?
Del Mar has some one-of-a-kind creations some people call ‘destination dishes’ – those favorites that you’ll go out of your way to have again and share with friends…Happy Hour Oysters - choose from raw, baked or fried at one happy hour price – it’s an oyster fan’s heaven! The Potato Bread is the king of starters – with cheddar, bacon and scallion in the bread, served in a mini cast iron skillet with sour cream butter. The Salmon plate is a fresh preparation with sesame sticky rice, snap peas, sprouts, mushrooms and ginger soy. And no meal should end without the Coconut Sorbet – a creamy treat served in a half coconut shell topped with shaved, toasted coconut. (Bonus - it’s vegan because it’s made with coconut milk!)
Is there patio seating?
Yes! During seasonal weather patio dining is available and the restaurant’s tall windows are opened to create a breezy, open atmosphere.
Where’s the best place to park and is there valet service?
Del Mar is located at 705 N. High Street in Columbus, Ohio’s Short North Arts District. On-street parking is available but be sure to read and follow street signage instruction regarding pay-by-phone parking. Garage parking is plentiful with multiple garages available within a 2-block radius of the restaurant. Valet is available on N. High Street in front of Marcella’s for $15 per vehicle.
Is there a Wine List?
Del Mar offers a well-curated selection of wines that pair well with our menu, available by the glass or bottle. Selections rotate as vintages become available with regular appearances by makers including Stags Leap, Cakebread Cellars, Patz & Hall, Far Niente, Orin Swift and the Prisoner Wine Co. Check the Wine List at the Del Mar website for current selections.
Are there menu options for Gluten-free and Vegetarian diners?
Yes! Del Mar offers plentiful options and menu items are notated with ‘gf’ and ‘v’ designations where preparation is already gluten-free or vegetarian, or, can be made so upon request. In addition, the chef team is well-versed in dietary adjustments and is pleased to accommodate requests. Please do not hesitate to inform your server of any food sensitivities or allergies.
Are Reservations required?
Reservations are not required but they are recommended. The dining room can be particularly busy in the later part of the week. If OpenTable is showing no availability for your preferred day and time, we recommend calling the restaurant.
What are SoCal Kitchen + Bar's hours of operation?
SoCal Kitchen + Bar is open Monday to Thursday from 4 pm to 9 pm, Friday from 4 pm to 10 pm, Saturday from 11 am to 10 pm, and Sunday from 11 am to 9 pm.
Does SoCal Kitchen + Bar offer a happy hour?
Yes, Del Mar offers a happy hour Monday through Friday from 4 to 6 pm and Sunday from 3 to 5 pm, featuring special pricing on drinks and an extensive happy hour food menu.
Can SoCal Kitchen + Bar accommodate large parties or private events?
Yes, SoCal Kitchen + Bar is available for private events Monday through Friday between 11 am and 3 pm for up to 100 guests, with a semi-private space for up to 26 guests. For parties larger than six, calling ahead is recommended.
Are reservations required at SoCal Kitchen + Bar?
Reservations are recommended but not required. If online booking shows no availability, calling the restaurant is advised.
Does SoCal Kitchen + Bar offer gluten-free and vegetarian menu options?
Yes, SoCal Kitchen + Bar provides numerous gluten-free and vegetarian options, noted on the menu, and is happy to accommodate dietary restrictions upon request.
Is there patio seating available at SoCal Kitchen + Bar?
Yes, patio seating is available during seasonal weather with windows near the bar opening to create a breezy atmosphere.
What nearby bars and pubs are close to SoCal Kitchen + Bar?
Nearby bars include Mac's Proper Pub, Lincoln Social Rooftop, and Rigsby's Kitchen, all offering great spots to continue your evening after dining.
Where can I park when visiting SoCal Kitchen + Bar?
There is on-street pay-by-phone parking nearby and multiple garages within two blocks. Valet service is available on N. High Street in front of Marcella’s for $15 per vehicle.
What entertainment or arts venues are near SoCal Kitchen + Bar?
Pinot's Palette art school and Marcia Evans Gallery are nearby, perfect places to explore some local arts and entertainment before or after your meal.
Are there nearby dessert places close to SoCal Kitchen + Bar?
Yes, excellent spots like Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams and Hey Puddin’ dessert shop are nearby for a sweet treat after your meal.