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FeedNeighborhoods: Bexley
Tim Johnson Photos
Just minutes from Downtown, college hipsters chat over quirky sushi combos at Moshi Sushi and the latest seasonal concoction at Jeni’s. Longtime Bexley locals catch a flick at the Drexel Theatre and stroll through nearby Jeffrey Park. “It’s important to become a neighborhood joint,” explains Barrel 44 partner Matt Nickel, who opened this second locale here a year ago. Bexley’s Main Street is a portal to experience old haunts and new favorites that make this century-plus-old small town worth a stop. It’s a great vibe to soak up during holiday events like Festival of the Arts on Dec. 1 and a tree-lighting party on Dec. 2.
1. Maia Boutique
2480 E. Main St., 614-239-9300
Owner Kate Kelley took over the She She Boutique space in September to create a shop with dresses, tops and accessories bursting with fun colors and textures. “My main goal is to cater to all ages,” Kelley says. (Don’t worry: She kept standby She She line Elan.) Need a fun gift idea for a girlfriend, mom or sister? Kelley plans to offer customizable gift baskets filled with jewelry, scarves and more.
2. Giuseppe’s Ritrovo
2268 E. Main St., 614-235-4300, giuseppesritrovo.com
Casual atmosphere and cuisine from owner Giuseppe Mangano’s southern Italian homeland are perfect for a lingering evening dinner with drinks and dessert. The Pollo Paillard (grilled chicken and vegetables) and Quattro Stagioni pizza (topped with cheese, artichokes, olives and prosciutto) are favorites among regulars, notes Kris Misevski, general manager since 1996. Giuseppe’s also crafts seasonal cocktails and a must-try Manhattan.
3. Star Jewelers
2260 E. Main St., 614-235-4333, starjewelersbexley.com
Sparkling with fashion-forward bracelets, necklaces and earrings, this store is a town fixture thanks to owners Dennis and Elaine Howard who travel the world (including a recent trip to Ireland) and bring back standout pieces. It’s the only shop in the area to carry Hidalgo interchangeable rings, and a no-glass display case means it’s easy to try out wedding bands before you buy.
4. Barrel 44
2232 E. Main St., 614-824-1058, barrel44.com
Already established in the Short North, Nickel brought the bar to Main Street in January with more than 170 kinds of whiskey. Among the popular sippers are barrel-aged cocktails, whiskey infusions and whiskey flights. Don’t worry if you have trouble deciding. “I gauge everyone based on their mood,” says bar manager Dave Nguyen. The staff concocts new drinks for changing seasons and offers some tasty winter warmers, too.
