The first time I ate at Brassica at the Easton Town Center in Columbus, I knew I’d stumbled onto a real gem. Although a lot of fast-casual restaurants with a pick-and-choose menu really tug at my heartstrings, Brassica’s offerings got right to the bottom of my Lebanese soul.
It was the smell that first drew me in as I walked by. Then the sight of the dishes had me scrambling into the lunch queue as quickly as possible. You know that image of Scrooge McDuck when he sees the room of gold he’s after? That’s me, but instead of coins and jewels, picture my eyes twinkling at the sight of falafel, hummus, pickled beets, pita chips, marinated eggplant, feta cheese, tahini chocolate chip cookies … well, you get the idea.
I took a photo of my lunch right before diving in, and sent it to just about everyone in my contacts (sorry, not sorry). After all, how could you not want to gaze upon a hummus bowl filled with brown rice, slow-roasted shawarma chicken, and all the accoutrements: pickled sweet beets, cukes, radishes, roasted red pepper sauce, feta, tahini. And of course, the roasted carrots and cauliflower. Some fresh-baked organic pita. (And okay, the irresistible tahini chocolate chip cookies … for “later.”)
Since that day, you may have caught me now and again staring longingly at the photo on my phone, wondering when the dish and I would one day be reunited. Luckily, the answer came sooner than later, as I gleefully heard about a Brassica Sandwiches & Salads coming this winter to Harpers Station.
Eat Your Vegetables
In the plant kingdom, Brassica is a genus of nutritious, cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, collard greens, and kale. The idea behind Brassica the restaurant is to prepare these bright, bold veggies — and all their menu offerings — simply, so that the flavors and colors can truly shine.
Owned and operated by the same family that runs Northstar Cafe, the flagship Brassica first opened in Columbus’s Short North district in the fall of 2015. Using organic whole wheat pita, protein-packed chickpeas, artisan tahini, antibiotic-free meats, and a close relationship with local farmers and craft brewers, the chain aims to “provide delicious food and exceptionally friendly service in beautiful spaces — but more simply,” according to Brassica partner Aminda Warburton.
“Brassica serves modern Mediterranean sandwiches and salads in a fast-casual setting with really extraordinary food,” adds Aminda. “We bake fresh organic pita bread throughout the day in a Wood Stone oven. We have delicious chicken and brisket, the best falafel you’ve ever tasted, and a beautiful variety of vegetables that we pickle and roast in-house.”
The restaurant also prides itself in its sustainability efforts, buying organic and local ingredients whenever possible, and considering the environmental impact on everything else they choose, from the lighting to the water, from construction materials to servingware.
Something for Everyone
While you could probably create a new order from Brassica every day without a repeat, it’s good to know that everything is made fresh, in-house, in full view of customers.
“Almost every single thing we prepare comes into our restaurant as an ingredient that we craft into the dishes we serve. It’s a hallmark of our kitchens — windows envelop our prep rooms to showcase us preparing the food we serve.”
More to the point, Brassica prides themselves on their menu offering something for even the pickiest eater. Ordering is as simple as going down the service line and choosing your own ingredients (much like Chipotle, who is also an investor).
“Preparing consistently amazing food requires staying focused on every detail. Our vision is to create loved experiences for every guest, and this is easier to achieve by being consistent and disciplined in everything we do,” Aminda explains.
And when you’ve gotten through the line, don’t skimp on the “extras.” Crispy fries, warm pita, decadent cookies, Boylan soda, and minty pink lemonade round out your meal.
Moving South for the Winter
Aminda says they’d had their eye on moving to the Cincinnati area for a while, but wanted to be sure they chose a community that would embrace their philosophy of eating well. The spot at Harpers (near Currito) fit perfectly.
“We wanted to come to Cincinnati, but were waiting for the right space to open up. This location features beautiful windows, a wonderful patio, and ample parking for guests,” she smiles. “Brassica is about more than just the food we serve — we take great care of our guests and maintain beautiful and clean spaces. Patrons can just feel this difference.”
While no official opening date is set just yet, the Northstar Restaurant Group is hoping to open their doors to this Harpers location this winter.
Brassicas.com | Harpers Station: 11301A Montgomery Rd, Cincinnati
Brassica’s Can’t-Miss Menu Items
While Brassica truly offers something for everyone, Aminda offers some helpful explanations for nervous newbies.
Falafel: A vegetarian option prepared during each shift, served hot and fresh.
Brassica fries: Always crispy, perfectly seasoned, and served with a special sauce (so good!).
Organic whole wheat pita: Baked fresh throughout the day in Wood Stone ovens.
Harissa-rubbed brisket: Brandt Farm brisket, trimmed and seared in-house, slow-braised and served with jus.
Baba ghanoush: Made from smoked eggplants, the baba is smokey, roasty, smooth and irresistible.
Pickled cabbage: Crisp, tangy, delicious!
Roasted carrots: Roasted with caramelized onion, then topped with smoked paprika and toasted sesame seeds.
Tahini chocolate chip cookies: Warm, soft, and surprisingly vegan. Must-have!