Tommy's Story

A Columbus Classic Since 1989

When Tom Pappas and his wife Kathy invested their life savings to open Tommy's Diner in 1989, they had one simple dream: serve honest, home-cooked food to the Franklinton neighborhood. Over three decades later, that dream has become a Columbus institution.

Today, with their son Michael helping run the family business, Tommy's continues the tradition of welcoming every guest like family. Step inside and you'll find pink neon lights lining the walls, posters of Elvis, Marilyn Monroe, and James Dean, vintage Coke machines, model airplanes, and loads of family photos.

With red vinyl booths, a classic U-shaped counter, and black-and-white checkered floors, Tommy's is the most diner-ish diner in Columbus — and we wouldn't have it any other way.