Columbus’ Cobra Promises a Great Night with Its Inspired Menu

Columbus’ Brewery District hot spot Cobra bills itself as “A Good Night Bar,” a slogan that’s reflected in the establishment’s creatively crafted cocktail list, bold Asian American cuisine and electric atmosphere that keeps the energy buzzing late into the night. 

Service-industry veterans Alex Chien, David Yee and Josh Spiers opened Cobra in October 2023 to highlight the experience of growing up in an immigrant family. They translate their childhood memories into menu items that reflect their upbringing. 

“[We use] small twists where each item is recognizable, but it’s got our own flavor to where you get a glimpse into what it means to be Asian American,” Chien says. 

The cocktail menu spans eight drinks that beautifully illustrate the bar’s approach. The Cobra Old-Fashioned features Toki Japanese whisky, Jim Beam rye bourbon, barley and cocoa, offering a fresh take on an American classic. The Kopiko Espresso Martini was inspired by the Indonesian Kopiko coffee candy that Chien’s grandmother used to give him. 

Many cocktails are designed in-house, showcasing the talents of Cobra’s staff. The Gold Tooth Tiger pineapple rum drink, for example, was created by bartender Kayla LeRoy and features popular Southeast Asian ingredients such as ginger, mint and curry leaf. 

Because food so wonderfully conveys memory and identity, Cobra also serves a menu of comforting cuisine. A favorite item is Mama Chien’s Dumplings, which are available on the regular menu as well as the smaller late-night one that kicks in at midnight. The dish features a recipe from Chien’s mom and includes a choice of either pork or a sweet potato filling topped with house-made dumpling sauce. 

Other favorites include the Ezzo Pizza Dumplings, Shanghai Noon Burger (which can be enjoyed with its Asian flavors or American style) and noodle dishes such as the Thai Basil and Clams Linguine. 

Seating at Cobra is first come, first served, and the establishment is open from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. every day except Tuesday. Opt to sit at the softly lit bar, casual dining room or large patio, all of which offer a different perspective on the Cobra experience. 

“Cobra is a dual concept, where we wanted to do a neighborhood bar in the front,” Chien says, “and an over-the-top, crazy cocktail bar in the back.”

684 S. High St., Columbus 43206, 614/502-8863, cobrabarcolumbus.com

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