Brassica in Columbus, OH, is a fast-casual, build-your-own-bowl concept that deserves to be the Chipotle of the Mediterranean food world. Most diners start with a bed of lentils or rice; from there, they keep it vegetarian or pile on the slow-roasted chicken shawarma, harissa-rubbed beef brisket, or house-cured lamb bacon with an Aleppo pepper glaze. Moving down the line, they select from a bounty of complimentary add-ons: hummus, baba ganoush, pickled red cabbage, jalapeño-studded cauliflower florets, etc.
Portions are obscenely generous and everything is kept as local and organic as possible, with small-batch feta coming from @luckypennycreamery in Kent and veg delivered regularly by @jorgensenfarms in Westerville and Dangling Carrot Farm in Williamsport. High ceilings and 1,600 square feet of breathing room keep the Short North eatery from feeling too claustrophobic, particularly during the busy lunch rush.
Our humble opinion: Co-owners Kevin and Darren Malhame, two brothers with Lebanese roots leading back to their Beirut-born grandfather, have a hit on their hands. Will somebody please franchise this thing already?
680 N. High St., Columbus, OH; 614-867-5885.
Additional photos courtesy of Brassica
