The Worthington Tavern officially opens at 671 High St. in Old Worthington on Thursday, June 2, and we got a little sneak peek at a preview dinner! The tavern replaces The Half Pint, which had closed up at the start of the pandemic and never re-opened.
The eatery is owned by Brian Swanson, who operates Bodega and Bristol Republic in the Short North.
The space was given a complete overhaul, with softer lighting and more dark wood accents. A small, covered patio will eventually be added out the back, accessible by a garage door.
The cocktail program is expertly handled by James DeFrance, who’s crafted libations that include a little table-side drama.
Margarite’s Fiery Passion: El Jimador Reposado tequila, passion fruit juice and liqueur, Creyente mezcal, Basque pepper and orange liqueurs, citrus, and a fire tincture.
And the Blacksmith Fashioned with Redemption bourbon, sorghum hickory smoke, and aromatic bitters.
On the left: The Honolulu Sunset with Echo Spirits pineapple rum, cherry liqueur, aromatic wines, cinnamon, cardamom, Szechuan peppercorn, pineapple shrub.
On the right: Espresso Yo’self, with coconut-washed Watershed Distillery vodka, NOLA coffee liqueur, espresso, and Barley digestive espresso. I added the shot of Buffalo Trace bourbon cream.
They were serving a limited menu to start, but we tried a trio of oysters.
Crispy St. Louis-style orange ribs.
Fire-roasted meatball.
Crispy chicken sandwich with fries.
OKC smashburger with fries.
Worthington Tavern opens Thursday, June 2 with a full menu! Parking is available on the street and in a lot behind the building.
Worthington Tavern
671 High St.
Worthington, OH 43085
Web: worthingtontavern.com
IG: @worthingtontavern
