Business Details
About
RestaurantAmerican RestaurantBrunch RestaurantSeafood Restaurant
A restaurant, tavern and oyster room, The Pearl will introduce an expansive menu of chef-inspired cuisine featuring made-from-scratch entrees, shareable plates and seasonal oysters complemented by handcrafted cocktails, a carefully curated wine list and a rotating selection of ales, lagers and stouts.
Details
- Dine-inAvailable
- DeliveryAvailable
- TakeoutAvailable
- Accepts reservationsAvailable
Location
Hours
Reviews
4.6
2,658 reviews
5 stars
1,969
4 stars
466
3 stars
118
2 stars
57
1 star
48
What are people saying?
AI-generated from recent customer reviews
Food Quality
Overall, customers praised the food quality, especially the oysters, shrimp and grits, and various appetizers, though some found certain dishes overpriced or inconsistent.
Service Experience
Service quality varied significantly; while many reviews highlighted excellent and attentive service, others reported slow or rude service that detracted from the dining experience.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's ambiance was generally well-received, described as stylish and cozy, though some noted it could feel cramped.
Value for Money
Several customers felt the prices were high relative to the food quality, with mixed opinions on whether the experience justified the cost.
- JBJenn BJan 1, 20261.0So for the past 4 or 5 years in a row my husband and I have had an absolutely wonderful New Year’s Eve experience at The Pearl. That was *NOT* the case this year. Usually, we call to make a reservation around 10pm with a small group of people and spend the two hours till Midnight ordering apps, several rounds of drinks, dinner, pie, and last year even some espresso and ice cream. The bill is usually quite large, as we expect, and we always are sure to tip very well for the servers time & because it’s a holiday. Every year we have been made to feel extremely welcomed and have had great personable servers. Every year we were encouraged to stay to watch the ball drop and all guests were given a complimentary flute of champagne to celebrate and count down with. Super cute. This year was a massive disappointment from a restaurant my husband and I have raved about and had been our go to for evenings out with family and friends for years. New Year started much the same as past years, up until about 10 minutes into being seated. As soon as we sat down we were asked if we wanted drinks or apps. We let the server know we’d need a minute, no biggie. When we did order drinks, he asked if we’d like to put our dinner order in, with no mentions of specials like past years. We went ahead and ordered both, since he said apps would be staggered. It became super apparent as the dinner went on that we were being rushed. We checked online to see if maybe the hours had changed this year without us knowing, but Google had the hours specifically listed that they were open later till midnight for New Year’s Eve. Our dinner arrived a few minutes after the many appetizers we ordered, which cluttered the table & again made everything feel very rushed. The sever let us know before we had finished our first drink that the bar was doing last call so we needed to order now if we wanted anything for our dinner. This caught us off guard because it wasn’t even 11 and in the past we usually ordered espresso martinis to go with our pie way after finishing our dinner. The server was quick to ask if we were done eating and took my plate within 30 seconds of me finishing. He proceeded to ask us if we wanted any pie as if someone was standing behind him with a gun to his head. We ordered a few slices for the table as we figured we might as well salvage what we could of the night. When we were given checks my friend asked what time they closed and we were told “sort of 11” when it was currently 11:20. If they decided to closed at 11 this year, why were they taking reservations for 10pm without saying so, and why didn’t the server think it important to mention to a group of 5 when we weren’t seated at our table till after 10. We collectively spent several hundred dollars for the most uncomfortable and rushed meal we’ve ever experienced. If your restaurant is advertising “come have New Years Eve with us” on social media and staying open late to do so, they shouldn’t treat guests like an inconvenience for showing up and expecting to have new years there. We ended up on high street at 11:40 on New Years Eve with no plan. Luckily Forno a block over had kind servers and an open table for us to order another round of drinks and ring in the New Year properly. I’ve really been enjoying my last few experiences at Forno.
- JMJames MaggioDec 28, 20255.0Sorry, no pictures. Great selection of Oysters. Good selection of fish and meat. Something for everyone. Well go back again.
- IAIliana Alvara1Dec 26, 20254.0We were visiting from New York and found this spot last minute for my family of four and met up with my cousin there. We really enjoyed the food—especially the chili shrimp and the mussels in their Thai sauce. The hospitality was great, and I would definitely go back the next time I’m in town.
- LBlaura biernackiDec 20, 20255.0My favorite place to eat in the short north. Amazing food, great staff and great atmosphere. I can't say enough good things. I highly recommend The Pearl
- BSBradley SwearingenDec 14, 20255.0I went to The Pearl on N High St. for the first time tonight. The meal can get expensive but you get your absolute money’s worth. This was one of the best meals I have ever had! Our cocktails to the tater tot’s, jalapeño spoon bread, me and my date’s entree, all the way to the pie for desert was unbelievably delicious. Our waitress (I believe it was Marley) did an amazing job as well. Will 100% be back again!
Frequently Asked Questions About The Pearl
Do you have a happy hour?
Yes! The Pearl in the Short North offers Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 4 – 6 pm, with a selection of specially-priced beverages and food including raw, baked or fried oysters. Every Monday is Martini Monday when our mixologist debuts a featured martini on Instagram served from 4 – 10 pm. For current Happy Hour Menu features, check The Pearl’s website!
Does The Pearl in the Short North offer specialty cocktails?
Yes! The Pearl is home to the famous Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned and Manhattan cocktails along with expertly-composed classic cocktails and exclusive standouts like the Bourbon.Bacon.Beautiful and The Cure – a rotating punch selection made with seasonal ingredients. Cocktails are updated from time to time so be sure to check The Pearl’s website to see the current Cocktail List. Select Specialty Cocktails may be available with special pricing during happy hour, Monday through Friday, 4 – 6 pm and every Monday is Martini Monday when our mixologist debuts a featured martini on Instagram served from 4 – 10 pm.
Does The Pearl in the Short North serve craft beer?
Yes! The Pearl in the Short North has a well-rounded selection of premium quality craft beers and unique offerings from far-flung places like the Czech Republic. A rotating series of bottled pale lagers, pale ales, wheats, fruits, dark and Belgium ales is served. Drafts are focused primarily on Ohio breweries including local favorites CBC (Columbus Brewing Company), Jackie O’s, Rhinegeist, North High Brewing and Seventh Son.
Can The Pearl in the Short North accommodate large parties?
Yes! The Pearl in the Short North is available weekdays from 11 am to 3 pm for special private events. For parties of greater than 6 guests at any time, we recommend calling the restaurant to discuss your plans and complete your reservation.
Is The Pearl in the Short North a fancy restaurant?
The Pearl’s Short North location is a gathering place serving shareable fare and featuring an oyster bar offering a generous selection of raw and cooked seafood delicacies. Drop in and grab a stool at the marble counter and watch oysters being shucked and seafood towers prepped while you enjoy dressed Blue Crab or a New England Clam Chowder. Bring friends for an after-work happy hour and share some Devils on Horseback or drop in for dinner to sample the famous Southern Fried Chicken dinner complete with warm cinnamon roll. The vibe is lively and warm with plentiful seating in booths, banquettes, and high-top tables in the long, dark wood bar. During seasonal weather, the front windows are open to N. High Street in Columbus’ Short North Arts District.
Does The Pearl in the Short North accept reservations?
Reservations are not required but they are recommended. If OpenTable is showing no availability for your preferred day and time, we recommend calling the restaurant.
What is The Pearl in the Short North famous for?
The Pearl in the Short North has earned raves for several signature features. The Snacks and Starters are filled with guest favorites including Devils on Horseback (dates wrapped in bacon with a chimichurri gremolata), the Old Fashioned Deviled Eggs, and Tater Tots like no other. The Jalapeño Corn Spoon Bread with whipped butter and honey arrives in a cast iron skillet (but won’t last long)! The Oyster Bar delivers a rotating selection of chillingly fresh shellfish that arrives daily, N’awlins Style Baked Oysters and Parmesan Baked Clams. Champagne Horseradish Mignonette served with The Pearl’s freshly-shucked oysters adds a bright zing. The Pub Burger has been voted best in the city and famous entrées include the Southern Fried Chicken served with warm cinnamon roll, Great Lakes Fish & Chips, Braised Short Ribs and Pork Piri Piri.The cinnamon roll in the Southern Fried Chicken entrée is such a hit, it’s been made available for pick up in servings of six rolls with a pastry bag of cream cheese frosting on the side and instructions for reheating. Cinnamon Rolls are for carryout only and need to be ordered 24 hours in advance and, yes, they are worth the effort!Most famously, The Pearl makes its own pies daily. A selection of 3 – 4 offerings is accompanied by the always-available Brown Sugar Pie. Decadent and rich with sugar and butter filling with a dollop of heavy (heavy) whipping cream, the Brown Sugar Pie (and its cousins) are a destination dessert. Save room!The Pearl is one of the Short North Arts District’s most enduring and beloved restaurants. It’s a favorite destination when out-of-town friends visit – there’s something for everyone!
Is there patio seating?
Patio seating is not available but during seasonal weather, the windows onto N. High Street are open creating a breezy, patio-like atmosphere.
Where’s the best place to park and is there valet service?
The Pearl in the Short North is located at 641 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 one block south, in front of Marcella’s, for $15 per vehicle.
Is there a Wine List?
Yes! The Pearl in the Short North offers a well-curated wine list with features from France to Argentina, Spain to New Zealand, France to California, Oregon and Washington state. Selections are available by the glass and bottle. Makers generally found on the list include Stag’s Leap, Terlato, Hanna, The Prisoner Wine Co., Veuve Clicquot, Grgrich Hills, Bodegas Alto Moncayo and Orin Swift. Visit The Pearl website for the current Wine List.
Are there menu options for Gluten-free and Vegetarian diners?
Yes! The Pearl’s menu features items noted with ‘gf’ or ‘v’ designation indicating the preparation is already gluten-free friendly 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.
Does The Pearl in the Short North have a happy hour and when is it?
Yes, The Pearl offers Happy Hour Monday through Friday, from 4 to 6 pm, featuring specially-priced beverages and food including oysters. Mondays have Martini Monday with a featured martini served from 4 to 10 pm.
What specialty cocktails does The Pearl serve?
The Pearl is known for the Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned and Manhattan, along with classic and unique cocktails like the Bourbon.Bacon.Beautiful and seasonal punches. Some specialty cocktails have happy hour pricing on weekdays.
Is craft beer available at The Pearl?
Yes, The Pearl offers a wide selection of premium craft beers, including local Ohio breweries like Columbus Brewing Company, Jackie O’s, Rhinegeist, and others, as well as international options.
Can The Pearl accommodate large groups or private events?
Yes, The Pearl can host private events on weekdays from 11 am to 3 pm. For parties larger than six, it's recommended to call the restaurant to arrange a reservation.
Is The Pearl considered a fancy dining spot?
The Pearl offers a lively, warm atmosphere with shareable fare and a prominent oyster bar. It's not overly formal but is highly regarded for its seafood and Southern-inspired dishes in the Short North Arts District.
Does The Pearl accept reservations and how can they be made?
Reservations are recommended but not required. If online options show no availability, calling the restaurant directly is advised.
Is there patio seating at The Pearl?
There is no patio seating; however, in seasonal weather, windows open onto N. High Street creating an outdoor-like atmosphere.
What parking options are available at The Pearl? Is valet offered?
On-street parking with pay-by-phone is available, and several garages are within two blocks. Valet parking is available one block south at Marcella’s for $15 per vehicle.
Are there notable places near The Pearl that customers might visit before or after dining?
Yes, nearby attractions include Burgundy Room wine bar, Hammond Harkins Galleries for art, and Bernard's Tavern pub. Customers might enjoy a drink at Burgundy Room or view art before or after their meal at The Pearl.
How can nearby locations like Huntington Bank ATM and Industrious be convenient for The Pearl visitors?
Huntington Bank ATM nearby allows easy cash access for customers, and Industrious coworking space nearby might make The Pearl a convenient lunch or evening dining spot for professionals working there.