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- Columbus Curiosity - February 14th, 2025
Columbus Curiosity - February 14th, 2025
Your Weekly Dose of Local Flavor, News, and Fun
Nathan Griggs
February 25, 2025
Hey there, Columbus crew!
Happy Valentine’s Day to all you lovebirds (and to those of you who are just here for the discounted chocolate tomorrow). Whether you’re celebrating with a romantic dinner, a Galentine’s bash, or a solo Netflix marathon with a pint of Ben & Jerry’s, we’ve got you covered with all the local scoop.
Why did the Columbus snowman go to therapy?
Because he had too many meltdowns! Ha Ha!
This week’s weather? Classic Ohio—sunny one day, snow flurries the next. But hey, at least it keeps life interesting, right?
Let’s dive into what’s making waves around town.
🚨 The Headlines
💰 Columbus City Council Passes $1.23 Billion Budget
Big news, folks—Columbus just dropped its biggest budget ever, and it’s packing a punch. A cool $1.23 billion is on the table, with over $700 million going toward public safety, housing, and infrastructure.
🚔 More cops. 🚧 Fewer potholes. 🏡 More housing. And hopefully, fewer “Wait, is that a sinkhole or just a really bad road?” moments.
Council started with a $1.5 million deficit, so there was some serious number-crunching to make it all work. But at the end of the day, they say this budget is about putting resources where they matter most.
Whether it’s safer streets, smoother roads, or actually affordable housing, your tax dollars are officially clocked in for 2025.
🦠 Worst Flu Season in a Decade Slams Central Ohio Schools
If your kid’s been home sick more days than they’ve been in class, welcome to the club. Some central Ohio school districts are seeing major attendance drops as flu season hits harder than it has in 15 years.
📉 Attendance stats:
Olentangy Schools dropped from 94.5% to 91.73% attendance this month.
Pickerington Schools? "Significant" increase in absences.
Grandview Heights? A slight uptick, but nothing crazy.
Columbus City Schools seem to be dodging the worst of it—for now.
👨⚕️ Doctor’s Orders:
If your kid has a fever, keep them home. (Nobody wants Patient Zero in 2nd-period math.)
Disinfect everything (think door handles, lunchboxes, and your sanity).
It’s not too late to get a flu shot. Just saying.
🩺 Cancer Bill Is Back—Will Lawmakers Actually Pass It This Time?
For the third time, Ohio lawmakers are debating a bill that would force Medicaid and insurance companies to cover biomarker testing—aka the Google Maps of cancer treatment.
Instead of guessing, doctors can use it to find the best treatment faster, with fewer complications.
Alique Topalian knows it works. Diagnosed with leukemia at age 4, she joined a biomarker trial when a bone marrow match didn’t happen. That treatment helped put her into remission. Now, she’s fighting to make it available for everyone.
What’s the holdup? Some lawmakers and insurers are clutching their wallets, saying this could raise premiums. Supporters argue better treatment = lower long-term costs.
Last time, the bill passed the House but flopped in the Senate. Will lawmakers finally get it together, or are we running this back in 2026?
🌟 Agni – A World-Class Dining Experience in Columbus
Foodies, buckle up—Columbus just landed on the national food map.
Agni, tucked away in a cozy 1940s house in the Brewery District, was just named one of USA TODAY’s 2025 Restaurants of the Year.
Chef Avishar Barua’s 14-course tasting menu is a globe-hopping adventure, blending flavors from Bangladesh to Peru to Pittsburgh—all in one unforgettable meal.
🍽️ The Highlights:
Phuchka – Crispy Indian street food with a twist
French Fry Burnt Ends – Because why not?
Caesar Chaat-Froid – A bold, reimagined classic
But Agni isn’t just about the food—it’s about the vibe. The warm, unpretentious atmosphere makes it a place where seriously good dining meets seriously good fun.
🍸 Pro Tip: The bar menu is just as creative—typhoon mushrooms and the Tom Khallins cocktail (inspired by Thai tom kha soup) are must-tries.
📚 The Book Loft: A Maze of Literary Wonder
Tucked away in German Village, this 32-room bookstore is a bookworm’s paradise. From cozy nooks to hidden corners, it’s the perfect spot to get lost (literally and figuratively). Pro tip: Bring a map—or just embrace the chaos.
🌳 Topiary Park: Step Into a Living Painting
Ever wanted to walk into a Georges Seurat masterpiece?
Head to Topiary Park, where 54 topiary figures recreate A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte. It’s art, nature, and a great Instagram moment all in one.
🎶 Rambling House: Bluegrass and Good Vibes
This laid-back spot is a haven for music lovers. Sip on house-made soda (or something stronger) while enjoying live bluegrass jams.
It’s the kind of place where strangers become friends—and where you might just discover your new favorite band.
Friday, February 14
Bobby Floyd Plays the Blues – Southern Theatre – Columbus jazz legend sets the mood with smooth piano and blues.
→ Catch the Blues Live
Saturday, February 15
Valentine’s Improv – MadLab Theatre – A hilarious, interactive improv show made for couples.
→ Enjoy a Night of Comedy
Cinch World's Toughest Rodeo – Nationwide Arena – Cowboys, bull riding, and non-stop action.
→ Experience the Rodeo Thrill
Sunday, February 16
A R I Z O N A - Victory Lap Tour – The Bluestone – An electrifying night of indie pop with A R I Z O N A’s signature sound.
→ Catch the Vibe Live
Black History Month Pop-up Concert – Columbus Cultural Orchestra – A powerful tribute blending classical and contemporary music.
→ Experience the Performance
Monday, February 17
Father John Misty: Destroyer – KEMBA LIVE! – Indie folk magic from the one and only Father John Misty.
→ Secure Your Spot
Columbus Fury vs. Vegas Thrill – Nationwide Arena – Pro volleyball action as the Columbus Fury takes on Vegas.
→ Cheer on the Fury
Tuesday, February 18
Jerry Cantrell - I Want Blood Tour – The Bluestone – Rock out with the Alice in Chains legend live.
→ Grunge Meets Raw Energy
Hot Stuff: A Sketch Comedy and Music Experience – Shadowbox Live – A mix of comedy, music, and all-out entertainment in a high-energy live performance.
→ Catch the Show
Wednesday, February 19
Jeff Dunham: Artificial Intelligence – Nationwide Arena – The king of ventriloquism is back with his iconic puppets and sharp humor.
→ Laugh Till You Cry
Peking Acrobats – Davidson Theatre, Riffe Center – Gravity-defying stunts and breathtaking feats straight from China.
→ Experience Jaw-Dropping Skills
Thursday, February 20
Backstage at the Lincoln: All-Star Staff Performance – Lincoln Theatre – A showcase of top-tier local talent in an intimate setting.
→ Live Music, Raw Talent
Niko Moon: These Are the Nights Tour – The Bluestone – Laid-back country vibes and feel-good tunes.
→ Back and Enjoy the Ride
Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and whether you're planning a fancy date, a cozy night out, or just treating yourself because you deserve it, Columbus has got you covered. Here’s your go-to guide for a romantic (or just delicious) night in the city.
🍽️ Romantic Dinner Spots
Columbus is home to some of the most charming date-night restaurants, and a few even made OpenTable’s Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants list.
If you haven't booked a table yet, hurry—reservations fill up fast!
🌹 Cento (German Village)
✨ Why go? Italian cuisine meets modern elegance in a cozy yet upscale setting. Think fresh pasta, candlelit ambiance, and a wine list that’ll impress even the pickiest sommelier.
📍 Where: 595 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215
🍷 Must-Try: The truffle risotto & espresso martini
🔗 Book Your Table
🥩 Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse (Downtown Columbus)
✨ Why go? If you want to go all out, Jeff Ruby’s delivers. This place screams Old Hollywood glam, with prime steaks, seafood towers, and live music to set the mood.
📍 Where: 89 E Nationwide Blvd, Columbus, OH 43215
🍷 Must-Try: The filet mignon & bourbon flights
🔗 Reserve Now
💖 Lindey’s (German Village)
✨ Why go? Classic, romantic, timeless. Lindey’s is a Columbus institution, known for beautiful patio seating and a warm, intimate vibe. If you’re looking for a place that never misses, this is it.
📍 Where: 169 E Beck St, Columbus, OH 43206
🍷 Must-Try: Lobster bisque & crème brûlée
🔗 Check Availability
🦞 Mitchell’s Ocean Club (Easton Town Center)
✨ Why go? If your idea of romance includes fresh seafood and handcrafted cocktails, Mitchell’s at Easton delivers big time. Perfect for a classy yet laid-back date night.
📍 Where: 4002 Easton Station, Columbus, OH 43219
🍷 Must-Try: Chilean sea bass & Ocean Prime Berries
🔗 Make a Reservation
🌆 Other Valentine’s Day Date Ideas in Columbus
Not feeling a fancy dinner? Here are a few outside-the-box date ideas:
🎨 Franklin Park Conservatory: Valentine’s Day Cocktails & Canvas
February 14 | 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM
A little wine, paint, and botanical vibes—aka the perfect low-pressure, creative date night. No experience needed, just bring your date (or your bestie) and let the drinks do the rest.
🔗 Get Tickets
💡 Otherworld: A Surreal Valentine’s Escape
Forget Netflix and chill—how about neon-lit dreamworld and wander? If your date loves immersive art, cool photo ops, and trippy visuals, Otherworld is the perfect spot to explore and vibe together. Bonus: They have special Valentine’s-themed exhibits running all weekend.
🔗 Plan Your Visit
🎶 Valentine’s Jazz Night at Natalie’s Grandview
For a laid-back but intimate evening, head to Natalie’s for a live jazz performance while sipping on cocktails. A perfect spot for music lovers looking for a cool, speakeasy vibe without the crowds.
📍 Where: 945 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
🔗 Check the Lineup
That’s it for this week! Whether you’re bracing for winter weather, searching for the best happy hour in town, or just here for the event recs, we appreciate you sticking around.
Got a hot tip? A favorite local spot we need to cover? Reply to this email—we love hearing from you.
Until next time, stay warm, stay curious, and stay out of Polaris traffic if you can help it.
— Nate
The Columbus Curiosity
P.S. If you forward this to a friend, we guarantee at least five minutes of good karma.