Columbus' Veritas named one of USA Today's top 39 restaurants

The Downtown Columbus restaurant from chef Josh Dalton was recognized for its tasting menu and beverage pairings.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Veritas, a restaurant in Downtown Columbus from chef Josh Dalton, has been named one of the top 39 restaurants in the country by USA Today. The publication praised the restaurant's tasting menu and beverage pairings as the main draw. Veritas was the only Columbus restaurant to make the list, while Mita's in Cincinnati from chef Jose Salazar was the only other Ohio restaurant recognized.

Why it matters

Landing on a prestigious national list like USA Today's top restaurants is a major accomplishment for a local restaurant, helping to raise the profile of Columbus' dining scene and showcasing the talent of chefs like Josh Dalton. This recognition could lead to increased business and attention for Veritas.

The details

Veritas originally opened in Delaware before moving to its current location in Downtown Columbus in 2017. The restaurant is known for its tasting menu format, where diners experience a series of small plates all part of overarching themes, paired with curated wine and cocktail pairings.

  • Veritas opened in Delaware before moving to Downtown Columbus in 2017.
  • Veritas was named one of USA Today's top 39 restaurants for 2026.

The players

Veritas

A restaurant in Downtown Columbus, originally opened in Delaware, known for its tasting menu format with small plates and beverage pairings.

Josh Dalton

The star chef who owns and operates Veritas restaurant.

Mita's

A restaurant in Cincinnati from James Beard nominated chef Jose Salazar, the only other Ohio restaurant named to USA Today's top 39 list.

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The takeaway

This national recognition for Veritas highlights the growing culinary talent and dining scene in Columbus, Ohio, showcasing the city's ability to produce restaurants that can compete with the best in the country.