Refectory

If you’re celebrating something big, or just find yourself in the mood for a proper terrine, Refectory has been a special occasion go-to for more than 40 years, and is pretty much the only place in Columbus that does classic French food. Plates are artfully composed and swirled with sauces in that fancy French way, but the menu is seasonal and changes often. The rack of lamb and duck confit are perennial favorites, and make sure to leave room for the vanilla crème brûlée. The restaurant is housed in an historic 19th-century church and schoolhouse (hence the name), with a dining room spread out over a couple of dimly-lit spaces with white tablecloths, plus stained-glass windows and a fireplace. Definitely plan on ordering wine—they have a cellar of more than 700 bottles, including some rare dessert wines.