When you’re craving a hearty burger in the Buckeye State, there’s really only one place to go. The Thurman Cafe at German Village in Columbus is an Ohio classic everyone needs to experience at least once. The burgers here are true game-changers. With massive meat patties and toppings piled high, what’s arguably Ohio’s most daunting food challenge awaits you at this local favorite “hole-in-the-wall.”

Check it out:

Sticking to its roots, this iconic burger joint has stayed family-owned and operated since 1942.

Yorkie1948/Trip Advisor You’ll find it at 183 Thurman Ave., Columbus, OH, 43206.

Inside, the laid-back, quirky atmosphere is intriguing to newcomers—and welcoming to regulars. (You never know what you’ll spy hanging from the ceiling here.)

Lynn C/Trip Advisor Fun fact: This beloved Columbus burger and restaurant first appeared on the Travel Channel in 2008 via “Man vs. Food,” and has since then been featured on multiple other shows.

On the menu, you’ll find a variety of burgers, each featuring their own unique style and piled high with a specific combination of toppings.

Colby C./Trip Advisor (And even though your burger might be difficult to finish, don’t skip out on the fresh cut fries. They’re just as hearty and delicious.)

Regardless of which one you choose, you can guarantee that it will be HUGE…

The Thurman Cafe/Facebook Don’t let it intimidate you. Eating is a messy ordeal at Thurman’s.

…but none of them compare to The Thurmanator.

zerns/Trip Advisor It’s piled high with lettuce, tomato, mayo, American cheese, provolone cheese, ham, sauteed onions, mushrooms, a 12 ounce burger, bacon, cheddar cheese, hot peppers—and another 12 ounce burger.

(If you miraculously have any room left, be sure to try their wings, which are another messy, delicious and crowd-pleasing option.)

A TripAdvisor Member/Trip Advisor

The Thurman Cafe is located at 183 Thurman Ave., Columbus, OH, 43206. Have you ever been here before? What was your experience (and your burger) like?

Yorkie1948/Trip Advisor

You’ll find it at 183 Thurman Ave., Columbus, OH, 43206.

Lynn C/Trip Advisor

Fun fact: This beloved Columbus burger and restaurant first appeared on the Travel Channel in 2008 via “Man vs. Food,” and has since then been featured on multiple other shows.

Colby C./Trip Advisor

(And even though your burger might be difficult to finish, don’t skip out on the fresh cut fries. They’re just as hearty and delicious.)

The Thurman Cafe/Facebook

Don’t let it intimidate you. Eating is a messy ordeal at Thurman’s.

zerns/Trip Advisor

It’s piled high with lettuce, tomato, mayo, American cheese, provolone cheese, ham, sauteed onions, mushrooms, a 12 ounce burger, bacon, cheddar cheese, hot peppers—and another 12 ounce burger.

A TripAdvisor Member/Trip Advisor

For more classic eateries in Ohio, be sure to check out our previous article: 12 Classic Restaurants In Ohio That Every Local Must Experience At Least Once.

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