We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro

1092 Bethel Rd, Columbus, OH 43220-2610
614-451-9774
Website
Menu
Update restaurant details
Ranked #5 of 1,254 restaurants in Columbus
Price range: $25 - $60
Cuisines: European, French
More restaurant details
Restaurant details
Good for: Romance, Special occasions, Entertaining clients
Dining options: Dinner, Reservations
Dining style: Casual Elegant
Cross street: Just west of Route 315
Description: The Refectory's relaxed and quiet pace presents an evening of elegant dining. At the heart of the dining experience are the culinary creations directed by Chef Richard, a native of Lyon, France, who studied under chef Paul Bocuse. The exceptional contemporary American cuisine and classic French cuisine is complemented by a world-class wine cellar encompassing over 700 selections. An experienced and knowledgeable staff and the personal touch of owner Kamal Boulos, complete the gracious yet unpretentious service that enhances a memorable evening. Our commitment to excellence in presenting each guest with the finest cuisine and service possible makes The Refectory the perfect setting for an important business dinner, a special celebration, or simply to treat yourself to an elegant dining experience! Thank you for choosing The Refectory!
Reserve with OpenTable
Please enter a later date and time
Write a Review

93 reviews from our community

87% Recommend
    72
    9
    6
    4
    2
Rating summary
    Food
    Service
    Value
    Atmosphere
Date Rating
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews 9 reviews
4 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed May 1, 2013

We visited The Refectory Restaurant for the first time, IT was Great. Our Server John was the best. Shared his knowledge of the wines and their food parings. The food was great and the Pork Belly and Brisket was very tasty and unusual .Would order it again. They have not forgotten what good service is and how to delivery it... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by Carl L for Columbus
Columbus, Ohio
Top Contributor
105 reviews 105 reviews
47 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 52 cities Reviews in 52 cities
158 helpful votes 158 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed April 11, 2013

The Refectory is a great restaurant. For many years, it was one of the three best restaurants in Columbus, back when there weren't very many great restaurants here. It is the ONLY of these three that is still a great restaurant. Very unusually, they have withstood the "sands of time". Still one of the best restaurants in Columbus, and we... More

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 19 more reviews by Travelling-Buckeye for Columbus
Macon, Georgia
Reviewer
3 reviews 3 reviews
Reviews in 2 cities Reviews in 2 cities
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed March 28, 2013 via mobile

My wife and I visited as part of our delayed honeymoon and this was our last dinner. Needless to say, all awards and accolades we read about we're well deserved. The atmosphere was perfect, service impeccable, and food was unbelievable. One of the best meals, if not the best, we've had in a while. Will definitely be back.

Was this review helpful? Yes 2
Columbus
Senior Contributor
27 reviews 27 reviews
13 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 4 cities Reviews in 4 cities
3 helpful votes 3 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed February 20, 2013

The last time we were at the Refectory our food wasn't as good as we expected. Haven't been back lately.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 22 more reviews by kgs76 for Columbus
Columbus, Ohio
Senior Contributor
25 reviews 25 reviews
15 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 11 cities Reviews in 11 cities
6 helpful votes 6 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed February 2, 2013

Having frequented The Refectory over the years, my experience was this time far less pleasant. (Four of us went during a "restaurant week" promotion, with a reasonable price for a 3-course meal; this is much less expensive than dining using the regular menu.) But from the outset, we were less than impressed by Joseph, a server whose affective and stilted... More

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 6 more reviews by djt12 for Columbus
Wetzikon, Switzerland
Senior Reviewer
8 reviews 8 reviews
Reviews in 8 cities Reviews in 8 cities
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed February 2, 2013

Well, we were certainly underdressed for this restaurant which could have somehow affected the attitude of the waiters towards ourselves. Nevertheless we spent there a very nice evening accompanied by delicious meals and decent wine. We were lucky to be there during the restaurant week and the restaurant was offering a three-course menu at $35 which is a bargain!

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Miami, Fl
2 reviews
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 28, 2013

Took advantage of restaurant week to finally try what many friends referred as the best restaurant in town. I have to say that it lived up to the expectations. The chef definitely chooses some high quality produce and meats and does an amazing job at enhancing their natural flavor. I was afraid that the small portions would leave me hungry... More

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Columbus, Ohio
Reviewer
5 reviews 5 reviews
Reviews in 4 cities Reviews in 4 cities
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 24, 2013

Whether you go for a special occasion meal, or a fixed-price three course Bistro dinner, you will get excellent food, beautifully presented. Celebrated a special birthday in a private room recently--wonderful, festive occasion for 16 friends and family. Food (3 courses, 3-4 choices each, plus passed appetizers during cocktails), wine, service all great! Go with friends several times a year... More

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Dumfries, Virginia
Senior Contributor
45 reviews 45 reviews
25 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 20 cities Reviews in 20 cities
25 helpful votes 25 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 23, 2013

We've eaten at The Refectory numerous times. This time, we were in the Columbus area on our anniversary, so decided to have a celebratory dinner there. As always, the service was impeccable (Thanks, Justin), the food superb, and the ambiance lovely. I can always count on this restaurant for a special occasion dinner.

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 3 more reviews by JFYDumfries_Virginia for Columbus
Chardom
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews 9 reviews
3 restaurant reviews
Reviews in 7 cities Reviews in 7 cities
10 helpful votes 10 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 22, 2013

Everything about the Chef's tasting menu was perfect from the wine pairings to the excellent service. A great place to go for a special evening. Our expectations were high and they were exceeded. Loved the first course Scallop Mousaline with Lobster sauce paired with two whites, but really every course was well executed and flavorful. don't skip dessert-the Creme Brulee... More

Was this review helpful? Yes 1

Travelers who viewed The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro also viewed

 

Been to The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage The Refectory Restaurant & Bistro, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing