Italian Village: Columbus Living, Food, Shops & History

Nestled just north of Downtown Columbus, Italian Village stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and dynamic growth. Established in the 19th century, the neighborhood features a unique blend of Italianate and Queen Anne architectural styles, with its restored homes made of masonry and wood, brick-lined streets, and ornate cornices.  

Today, Italian Village seamlessly marries its historic roots with contemporary living, offering residents and visitors a vibrant community filled with artisanal eateries, boutique shops, and cultural landmarks.

Historic Italian Village 

Located just north of Downtown Columbus near the Short North Arts District, Italian Village was one of Columbus’ first suburbs and remains a sought-after location for professionals, families, and creatives alike. It is a designated historic district, known for its historical and cultural preservation and has the highest home value appreciation in Columbus. To this day, the rich history of Italian Village is preserved through its notable landmarks that include St. John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church, Berry Boltworks, and Jeffrey Mining Company Office Building.  

Living in Italian Village  

With tree-lined streets, community parks, and a strong sense of neighborhood pride, Italian Village provides an urban lifestyle with a close-knit community feel. The area features a dynamic housing market that includes everything from historic brick homes to sleek new townhouses and lofts.  

Quiet, tree-lined streets and alleyways invite leisurely strolls, while community parks and front porches offer plenty of opportunities to connect with neighbors. Whether you’re a young professional, an artist, or someone looking for a lively yet grounded neighborhood, Italian Village offers something special. 

A Vibrant Food Scene  

The food scene in Italian Village is as rich and varied as its history. Locally owned and full of personality, the restaurants here focus on quality ingredients and innovative menus. You’ll find everything from cozy brunch spots to food halls and breweries that serve as community gathering places. 

Fox in the Snow Café – The original location of this beloved spot, known for rustic-style baked goods and hand-poured coffee, set in a bright, minimalist space. 

GoreMade Pizza – A local favorite for wood-fired, farm-to-table Neapolitan-style pizzas, made with ingredients sourced from nearby farms. 

Drunch Eatery + Bar – A brunch-focused gastropub that’s big on locally sourced fare and creative cocktails. 

Seventh Son Brewing – A mainstay for craft beer lovers, offering a rotating selection of brews, an open-air patio, and frequent food truck events. 

Budd Dairy Food Hall – This vibrant culinary collective feature rotating local vendors, rooftop views, and a lively social atmosphere. 

Unique Shops and Businesses in Italian Village 

Italian Village is home to a wide array of unique, independently owned boutiques and specialty stores. Whether you’re on the hunt for vintage finds, stylish houseplants, or handcrafted gifts, the neighborhood offers a one-of-a-kind retail experience. 

Flower Child Vintage – A retro emporium where vintage furniture, fashion, and decor from the 1930s to the 1980s fill every corner. 

Stump Plants – A minimalist plant boutique offering curated greenery and botanical goods for your indoor oasis. 

Big Fun – A vintage toy shop in the heart of the Italian Village, packed with everything from mall goodies to retro finds.  

Rowe Boutique – A women’s contemporary clothing boutique with a carefully selected unique collection of contemporary and emerging designers for fashion-conscious shoppers. 

Helen Winnemore’s – A gift shop with a focus on the work of American Artisans, think arts festival all wrapped into one shop.  

Vella & Co – offering artisan candles, all hand-poured in their Columbus location with 100% soy wax and a clean, non-toxic fragrance. Explore our unique themed collections and find the perfect scents for every occasion.

  

Parks & Rec  

Despite its urban location, Italian Village offers a surprising amount of green space. Parks here serve as neighborhood hubs, providing areas for relaxation, play, and community gatherings. 

Italian Village Park – This centrally located park features a playground and picnic area, maintained through community donations and involvement. 

Poplar Park – A charming green space perfect for impromptu lunch breaks or dog walks. 

Goodale Park – Just a short stroll away, this expansive park includes walking trails, tennis courts, a gazebo, and a scenic pond. 

Italian Village is a neighborhood that honors its past while embracing the future. Its architectural charm, vibrant street life, and close community ties make it one of the most desirable places to live in Columbus. With walkable amenities, a rich cultural history, and a forward-thinking spirit, Italian Village offers a lifestyle that’s both inspiring and deeply rooted in place. 

Explore German Village: Columbus’s Historic Neighborhood

Neighborhood Highlight – German Village 

Located just south of downtown Columbus, German Village is a treasured historic neighborhood that blends Old World charm with modern-day living – it also happens to be the proud home of Vutech | Ruff. With its signature brick-lined streets, beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, and highly walkable layout, German Village offers a unique, character-rich experience for both residents and visitors. Whether you’re drawn by the inviting shops, acclaimed restaurants, or the quiet beauty of the streetscapes, German Village is a place that feels like home the moment you arrive. 

A Rich History Preserved 

Founded in the early 1800s and settled heavily by German immigrants between 1840 and 1914, German Village is one of Columbus’s oldest and most beloved neighborhoods. By the mid-19th century, the area accounted for nearly half of all construction in the city. Today, it’s a remarkable example of historic preservation, where the original spirit of the neighborhood lives on in its architecture and community character. 

Homes are typically brick cottages and Dutch Doubles, built close together on small lots. Many retain distinctive limestone stoops and period detailing that showcase both craftsmanship and practicality. With zoning regulations in place to maintain its historic feel, no building exceeds four stories in height, allowing the neighborhood’s charming streetscape to remain uninterrupted. 

Walkability & Lifestyle 

Considered one of the most walkable neighborhoods in Columbus, German Village is known for its walkability and the lifestyle that results. The absence of driveways and the prevalence of on-street parking contribute to a pedestrian-first environment where everyday errands, casual strolls, and scenic walks are part of daily life. 

Brick sidewalks and alleyways wind through the neighborhood, connecting homes, shops, cafes, parks, and galleries. The cohesive brick aesthetic adds not only visual charm but a deep sense of continuity. 

Local Eateries in German Village  

Food lovers will feel right at home in German Village. The neighborhood is home to a wide variety of culinary experiences, from casual cafes to upscale dining, with some local favorites including: 

Katzinger’s Delicatessen – A New York-style deli famous for its award-winning corned beef sandwiches. 

Lindey’s – A long-time neighborhood gem, known for upscale American cuisine and dishes like tournedos of beef and crab cakes. 

Schmidt’s Sausage Haus – A local institution serving authentic German fare, including bratwurst, schnitzel, and their legendary cream puffs. 

Thurman Café – Home of the tastiest burgers in Columbus, including the famous ‘Thurmanator’. 

Start your day or take a mid-afternoon break at one of German Village’s coffee shops and bakeries: 

Kittie’s Cakes offers cinnamon rolls, scones, and mini cupcakes.  

Jeni’s Ice Cream make unforgettable, crave-worthy flavors. 

Bake Me Happy prides itself as being almost too good to be gluten free. 

German Village Coffee Shop is an old school style diner that looks the same as when it was established. 

Stauf’s Coffee Roasters was voted among USA Today’s Best Independent Coffee Shops. 

Winan’s Coffee, and Chocolate is a coffee shop with a heart.

Shopping in German Village 

From one-of-a-kind boutiques to curated home goods, German Village offers a shopping experience like no other: 

The Book Loft – A labyrinth of 32 rooms filled with books, tucked into a historic pre-Civil War building. 

The Red Stable – A souvenir and gift shop featuring local art, cuckoo clocks, candles, and more. 

Helen Winnemore’s – A go-to destination for handmade items and artisan gifts. 

Urban Sundry – A lifestyle boutique with a focus on town-and-country charm, offering clothing, equestrian gifts, and home décor. 

The charm of German Village lies in its details, from the weathered bricks underfoot to the vibrant energy of its small businesses. It’s a place where history is tangible, where neighbors greet each other on morning walks, and where each visit leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re looking to live, work, shop, or simply explore, German Village offers a lifestyle that’s as rich in heritage as it is in charm. 

Should You Buy a Home in Central Ohio Now or Wait?  

With 30-year mortgage rates hovering around 6.65%, many potential homebuyers are wondering whether now is the right time to buy or if they should wait for rates to drop. 

While it’s natural to hope for lower rates, waiting could cost you more in the long run. Home prices in Central Ohio continue to rise, and experts predict that demand will remain strong. If you delay, you may face higher home prices and increased competition, making it even tougher to find the right home at the right price. 

Let’s take a closer look at why buying now may be the better financial move.

The Reality of Mortgage Rates & Home Prices

It’s understandable that homebuyers want to secure the lowest possible mortgage rate, but trying to time the market can backfire. While some forecasts suggest that rates may gradually decline to 6.4% in 2026, that small difference is unlikely to outweigh the rising home prices and increased competition expected in Central Ohio’s housing market.

Central Ohio Housing Market Trends 

Columbus and the surrounding areas remain one of the hottest real estate markets in the U.S., and the data supports it: 

More Homes on the Market – Inventory has increased by 21% compared to last year, giving buyers more choices right now. 

Home Prices Keep Climbing – The median home price in Columbus reached $315,665 as of December 2024, a 3.3% increase from last year—and prices are expected to keep rising. 

High Demand & Market Competitiveness – Columbus is ranked No. 12 among the most competitive housing markets in the country. Homes are selling fast, and values are likely to continue appreciating.

Why Buying Now Makes Financial Sense  

If you’re holding off on buying in hopes of lower mortgage rates, consider this: 

Home Prices Are Rising Faster Than Rates Are Dropping 

While some forecasts suggest mortgage rates may decline slightly to 6.4% in 2026, the difference is minimal compared to the expected rise in home prices. 

For example, a $500,000 home in 2025 could be worth $525,000 in 2026, meaning you’d pay $25,000 more for the same property if you wait. Even if rates improve slightly, your overall loan amount will be higher, leading to a potentially larger monthly payment. 

More Inventory, Less Competition … For Now 

Right now, buyers have more choices and slightly less competition. But as inventory tightens again, bidding wars could return, making it harder to secure your ideal home. 

You Can Always Refinance Later 

One of the biggest misconceptions about mortgage rates is that you’re stuck with them forever. If rates drop in the future, you can refinance—but you can’t go back in time to buy at today’s lower prices.

Now is the Time to Buy 

The Columbus real estate market remains strong, and while mortgage rates are a factor to consider, home prices and market conditions matter even more. Instead of waiting and risking a higher purchase price and more competition, buying now allows you to lock in a home at today’s value, start building equity, and refinance later if rates improve. 

At Vutech | Ruff, we believe that every home purchase should be an inspired move—one that aligns with your goals, lifestyle, and future aspirations. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upgrading, or investing, our team is here to guide you with expertise and confidence.

The Homeowner’s Easy Guide to Planting

One of the greatest joys of homeownership is making your space truly your own, both inside and out. Your outdoor spaces should be an extension of your home, offering a place to relax, entertain, and even get your hands a little dirty. But if you’re not a seasoned gardener, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. While hiring a landscaping company is always an option, tackling the project yourself can be a rewarding way to unwind, soak up some Vitamin D, and even get a bit of exercise. 

To set yourself up for success – and ensure your hard work pays off – we’ve outlined some of our top tips to help you navigate the planting process:  

1) Don’t Plant Too Late (Or Too Early)  

    Planting before the last frost of the season can wreak havoc on your garden, which is why we suggest researching the average last frost date in your area. Columbus, for example, typically sees its last frost around April 27th.  

    2) Know Where (and When) Sun Hits Your Yard  

    Before you choose your plants, it’s important to know the amount of sunlight different areas of your yard receive. Plants are categorized by their sunlight needs – full sun, partial sun, dappled sun, or full shade – and selecting the right ones based on your yard’s sun exposure ensures they thrive. Here’s a quick breakdown:  

    Full sun – Full sun plants need 6+ hours of direct sunlight a day

    Partial sun – 4-6 hours of direct sunlight a day

    Dappled sun (or partial shade) – 2-4 hours of direct sunlight a day

    Full shade – 0-2 hours of direct sunlight a day 

    3) Pick Your Plants 

    When picking your plants, ask yourself whether you want to replant every year. If the answer is no, you’ll want to opt for perennials where possible. The tops of perennial plants die back during winter but bloom again in the spring, minimizing the amount of maintenance and replanting required.  

    Annuals, on the other hand, live for only one growing season, meaning they’ll need to be replanted in the spring. Annuals are also ideal if you want to switch up the colors and varieties of plants in your garden. 

    4) Don’t Skimp on Soil 

    Adding soil – and good soil at that – is a step not to be skipped during the planting process. Once you’ve loosened the soil enough, we suggest sprinkling a handful of nutrient-rich potting soil into the ground before you place your plant.  

    5) Space Your Plants Out  
    It can be easy to forget that plants grow both upward and outward, requiring space for healthy development. A common beginner’s mistake is crowding plants too close together, leading them to compete for water and sunlight, which can stunt their growth and cause disease. To prevent this, refer to the spacing recommendations on plant tags at local garden centers, ensuring each plant has enough room to thrive.  

    6) Water, Water, Water  

    While it’s not always necessary to water every day, aim for 2-3 soaks a week to guarantee your garden gets enough to stay healthy. It’s also important to watch out for precipitation in the forecast, as this affects how often you need to water. If your area is going through a dry spell and it’s especially hot out (think late July through early August in Ohio), you may want to water every day. Some indicators that your plants aren’t being watered enough include:

    Dry soil – If the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry, your plants need a healthy drink.

    Wilting leaves

    Yellowing leaves

    Leaves with browning or crispy edges

    Planting Classes in Columbus 

    If you’re still not confident going into this gardening season, you can always take a planting class or two to sharpen your knowledge.  

    Franklin Park Conservatory – The conservatory hosts a wide variety of classes, including several upcoming sessions that focus on gardening. Whether you want to learn more about certain types of plants, how to support your plants’ growth, or even tips on water conservation – they’ve got it. 

    Columbus Garden School – If you’re interested in more hands-on class experience, the Columbus Garden School might be more up your alley. They offer everything from one-hour workshops to multi-month skill-building courses so you can gain the knowledge and tools you need to perfect your green thumb! 

    Columbus Foodscapes – If you’re more interested in turning your backyard into an edible landscape, Columbus Foodscapes offers several classes – both online and in-person – on how to start, grow and maintain a beautiful vegetable garden.  

    Creating the perfect outdoor space is just one of the many joys of homeownership. Whether you’re planting your first flower bed or transforming your backyard into a lush retreat, taking the time to cultivate your space makes a house truly feel like home.

    At Vutech | Ruff, Cutler Real Estate, we believe that finding the right home is about more than just four walls—it’s about discovering a place where you can grow, dream, and create lasting memories. With nearly 40 years of experience helping buyers and sellers in Columbus, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way. 

    Your home, your vision—let’s find it together. Contact us today to start your journey! 

    Best Local Nurseries for Spring Plants

    It’s almost time to dust those garden gloves off! Spring will be springing before we know it, and landscaping will be the number one priority of homeowners across Ohio. If you’re already planning for how you’re going to fill your flower beds and pots, we recommend checking out some of the following local nurseries for beautiful, high-quality plants.  

    DeMonye’s Greenhouse 

    Started in 1929 by the Demonye brothers, this spacious greenhouse and nursery has been a local favorite for nearly a century! Conveniently located minutes from the John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Demonye’s is known for its friendly staff and stunning array of plants – including hanging baskets, perennials, annuals, tropical plants, and more. Be sure to note its sale days, too for great deals on your favorite plants!  

    STUMP 

    Based in Italian Village, STUMP is not only one of the most stylish houseplant retailers we’ve seen but also has a reputation for being a great spot for plant novices. Beyond offering a wonderful and extensive selection of houseplants and wares to display them, they specialize in plant education, providing customers with expert advice, personalized recommendations, and even adorable ‘care-cards’ for each plant. If you struggle to keep your plants alive (or just want to take your plant knowledge up a level) this shop is a must-visit. 

    Plant Gays 

    Another aesthetically pleasing nursery in the area is Plant Gays, with locations in both German Village and the East Market. We love them for their amazing array of rare and indoor plants, along with chic planters designed to elevate your space. Indoor plant design consultations and services are also on their menu, helping you choose the best plants to complement your space based on lighting and maintenance levels. 

    Strader’s 

    If you’re familiar with the Columbus area, chances are you’ve popped into one of the local Strader’s Garden Centers! Whether you’re envisioning a vegetable garden, fruit trees or flourishing flower beds, Strader’s has everything you need to accomplish the landscaping of your dreams. And chances are you’ll also find some incredibly cute lawn and garden decor while you’re there!  

    Oakland Nurseries 

    Our list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Oakland Nurseries. With locations in New Albany, Delaware, Dublin, and Clintonville, there’s a reason Oakland is the go-to spot for so many throughout Central Ohio. From exotic and native plants to ground covers, shrubs, and beyond, their nurseries and greenhouses have it all. And on the off chance you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, Oakland can even place special orders through their extensive network of suppliers to ensure you get the perfect plants for your space. 

    Honorable Mention: Groovy Plants Ranch 

    Located in Morengo (about fifteen minutes past Tanger Outlets), Groovy Plants Ranch might not be right around the corner for most Columbus residents, but it’s certainly worth the trip. Whether you’re in the market for perennials, houseplants, or more rare and exotic species, they have a wonderful and wide selection to choose from. And if you’re just along for the ride, the ranch’s quirky and eclectic decor makes exploring the space an experience in and of itself.  Plus, you can really make a day out of your visit by taking a yoga, beekeeping, or pottery workshop while you’re there!  

    Whether you’re considering buying or selling a home in Central Ohio, working with Vutech | Ruff means choosing a team that values personal connections, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. With nearly 40 years of experience, our team of dedicated agents offers a tailored, client-first approach that turns real estate transactions into inspired experiences.  

    When you’re ready to make your next move, trust the team that believes in relationships over transactions, community over trends, and a level of service that goes beyond expectations. Contact us today.   

    The Preston Centre: The New Must-See In Columbus

    Vutech | Ruff team members were thrilled to attend the recent open house for the Preston Centre, formerly the PNC Tower on East Broad Street. Hosted by Columbus Landmarks, the event showcased the innovative adaptive reuse of the building, now a bustling hub of mixed-use spaces including residential, office, and retail. The project is Downtown’s largest transformation yet of an office building into residences.

    We were pleased to support our good friend, Jeff Edwards, president and CEO of The Edwards Companies, which developed the project. More than seven years in the making, the project involved converting floors 10 through 23 of the 24-story office tower into 105 apartments. 

    During the open house, Marilyn Vutech, Anna Vutech, and Emily Ahlering had the opportunity to tour the luxury apartments with incredible views of the city, gorgeous common area spaces that include an art gallery, game room, workout facility, and beautiful outdoor garden-itself an incredible piece of art.

    When finished, the building is expected to include up to five restaurants and bars, including Cameron Mitchell’s new Butcher & Rose.

    Welcome To Central Ohio And The Columbus Area 

    Whether you’re interested in big city living, small town charm, or anything in between, Ohio has you covered. And while Ohio offers all the exciting entertainment and recreation of the coasts, your cost of living is low enough to get out there and enjoy it all.  

    Whoever you are, wherever you’re coming from, whatever you’re looking for—you can find it in Ohio. A microcosm of the U.S. in a single state, Ohio represents the best of what our country has to offer: an amazing mix of affordability, quality of life, diverse industry, diverse communities, natural beauty, and a dynamic hub for innovation, culture, sports, education, and economic growth.  

    A place where you can have balance. Live. Work. Invest. Live your own version of the American Dream. In Ohio, you don’t have to make the false choice of success in your business endeavors or professional endeavors at the expense of success in your family, personal, or community endeavors. You can do all of those things here. That’s why people from all walks and stages of life are reassessing, reprioritizing, and relocating to Ohio – the heart of America’s Heartland – to realize their best work and their best self.  

    Ohio is more than 40,000 square miles of busy cities, charming small towns, sparkling rivers, sprawling hills, and beautiful farmland. The people who have called Ohio home have left their mark on history and Ohio continues to be at the center of cutting-edge innovation. Some of the world’s biggest historical moments started in Ohio: the invention of the airplane, both the first man to orbit the moon and to set foot on the moon, and eight U.S. presidents all started here. With one of the world’s biggest economies, plentiful resources, technology, and world-class education, it’s clear why Ohio has left its mark on history.  

    • – 14th Largest City in the Country 
    • – #1 Fastest-Growing Midwest City for GDP, Job Growth & Population  
    • – #1 Top City for Rising Tech Start Ups – Forbes 
    • – Named on of the “30 Most Fun Places to Live in the U.S.” by U.S. News & World Report  
    • – Home to 53 Colleges & Universities – One Columbus 

     

    Why Choose Ohio? 

    With its centralized location, access to transportation routes, and history of success, Ohio is a hub for business and commerce. World-famous companies, midmarket, and small businesses all choose Ohio as their headquarters, including:  

    • – The Ohio State University  
    • – Cardinal Health  
    • – Worthington Industries  
    • – Grange Insurance  
    • – Plaskolite  
    • – Kimball Midwest  
    • – Abbott  
    • – American Electric Power  
    • – Big Lots  
    • – Abercrombie & Fitch  

    Columbus is a short drive to other Midwestern metropolitan hubs and destinations like Cincinnati, Cleveland, Chicago, Indianapolis and Louisville and close to many charming small towns that make up the rest of Ohio. You also won’t be breaking the bank as Ohio is ranked number one in affordability. 

    How to Make Ohio Home  

    Whether you’re moving from another state or another country, Ohio has a lot to offer. Here are some important details to help you get acclimated to life in Ohio:  

    TIME ZONE: Eastern Standard Time (EST) – Daylight Saving Time observed 

    CLIMATE: Continental, with warm, humid summers and cold, dry winters. A typical Columbus winter brings an average snowfall of 28.2 inches, with January and February being the snowiest months. 

    REGION: Midwest 

    How to Get Around 

    Bigger cities in Ohio offer robust public transportation options in the city core, however, a vehicle is highly recommended. Transportation anywhere in Columbus is less than 30 minutes with a car because of the extensive freeway system(s). 

    Cost Of Living  

    OHIO IS GOOD FOR BUSINESS  

    While there are many factors contributing to business owners’ decisions to relocate, the lower cost of doing business and lower cost of living in Ohio over the coasts are proving too good to pass up. Since 2016, over 40 new companies, nearly 10,000 jobs, and $625M in payroll have come to Ohio from the coasts.  

    OHIO’S AFFORDABILITY  

    In Ohio, every dollar goes further without sacrificing quality. Ohio is the No. 1 most affordable state, according to the 2020 U.S. News rankings. The cost of living in Ohio’s significant cities is 42-70% lower than San Francisco and New York City. Ohio Ranks No. 3 in Moody’s Housing Affordability Index, which measures the combination of higher median income and lower housing price, providing a good quality of life (2020, Q3).  

    ENTERTAINMENT & EXCITEMENT  

    A lower cost of living is a benefit on its own but knowing that in Ohio, you and your employees can still enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with festivals, live events, museums, cuisine, arts, and more is icing on the cake.  

    ADDITIONAL RESOURCES 

    Ohio School Report Cards | reportcard.education.ohio.gov 

    Property Tax Information/Franklin County | franklincountyauditor.com  

    Zip Code Map for Demographics | city-data.com/city/Ohio.html 

    Learn more about the neighborhoods in Central Ohio in our full relocation guide here.