Schmidt's Sausage Columbus: Location, History & Hours

Schmidt's Sausage Company & Restaurant, established in 1886, is a historic German-style meat market and restaurant located in Columbus, Ohio's German Village neighborhood. The business operates at 525 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215, offering traditional German sausages, meats, and prepared foods. Current operating hours are Monday-Saturday 9:00 AM-8:00 PM and Sunday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

For more than 135 years, Schmidt's Sausage Company has been a cornerstone of German Village, preserving authentic German culinary traditions while adapting to modern tastes. Founded by German immigrant George Schmidt, this family-owned establishment has evolved from a simple butcher shop to a beloved Columbus institution that serves both as a retail market and full-service restaurant.

A Legacy of German Culinary Tradition

Schmidt's Sausage Columbus represents one of America's longest-running German-style meat markets. The business began in 1886 when George Schmidt opened his butcher shop in what was then a predominantly German neighborhood. Unlike many similar establishments that disappeared during World War I anti-German sentiment or World War II meat rationing, Schmidt's persevered by maintaining quality and adapting to changing times.

The current location in German Village, rebuilt after a fire in the 1980s, continues the tradition of handcrafting sausages using time-honored recipes. Fourth-generation family members still oversee operations, ensuring that the sausages, bratwurst, and other specialty meats maintain the authentic flavors that have drawn customers for generations.

Location and Accessibility

Situated in the heart of German Village at 525 S High Street, Schmidt's enjoys a prime location in one of Columbus's most historic neighborhoods. The area features beautifully preserved 19th-century brick homes, boutique shops, and other German-inspired businesses that create an immersive cultural experience.

Day	Market Hours	Restaurant Hours
Monday-Saturday	9:00 AM - 8:00 PM	11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday	10:00 AM - 6:00 PM	11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Visitors to Schmidt's Sausage German Village will find ample street parking along High Street and nearby side streets. The establishment is easily accessible from downtown Columbus and offers bike racks for cyclists exploring the neighborhood. Public transportation options include COTA bus routes that stop within two blocks of the location.

Signature Products and Menu Highlights

Schmidt's Sausage Company remains best known for its extensive selection of house-made sausages, each crafted using traditional German methods. The kitchen produces more than 30 varieties of sausages daily, including:

• Original German bratwurst (their most popular item)
• Weisswurst (white sausage traditionally served for breakfast)
• Knockwurst (smoked garlic sausage)
• Bierwurst (beer sausage)
• Leberkäse (German meatloaf)

Beyond sausages, Schmidt's offers a full menu of German specialties including schnitzel, sauerbraten, and potato pancakes. The restaurant portion serves lunch and dinner with traditional sides like red cabbage, sauerkraut, and spaetzle. Many customers visit specifically for the weekend brunch featuring German-inspired breakfast items.

What to Expect During Your Visit

When planning your visit to Schmidt's Sausage Columbus Ohio, understanding the layout enhances your experience. The establishment combines three distinct areas under one roof:

1. The Retail Market - Features glass cases displaying fresh meats, sausages, and prepared foods available for take-home
2. The Restaurant - Casual dining area serving full meals with traditional German decor
3. The Beer Garden - Seasonal outdoor seating area perfect for enjoying sausages with German beers

First-time visitors to Schmidt's Sausage German Village should note that the market area often has a line during peak hours, especially on weekends. The restaurant accepts walk-ins but doesn't take reservations, so arriving early during meal times ensures shorter waits. Many patrons combine their visit with a stroll through the surrounding German Village, making it part of a larger cultural experience.

Community Impact and Cultural Significance

Schmidt's Sausage Company has maintained its relevance through community engagement and cultural preservation. The business participates annually in German Village's Oktoberfest, Christkindlmarkt, and other neighborhood events that celebrate German heritage. Their commitment to quality has earned them recognition as one of Columbus's most authentic German dining experiences.

Unlike many establishments that have commercialized German traditions, Schmidt's maintains authenticity through family ownership and adherence to traditional recipes. The business has received numerous local awards for both food quality and historical preservation, cementing its status as more than just a restaurant but a cultural institution.

Planning Your Visit to Schmidt's Sausage

For those traveling to experience Schmidt's Sausage Columbus firsthand, consider these practical tips:

• Weekday visits typically offer shorter wait times than weekends
• Try their "Sausage Sampler" to taste multiple varieties
• Check their website for seasonal specials and holiday hours
• Purchase sausages to cook at home using their recommended preparation methods
• Explore the surrounding German Village neighborhood before or after your meal

Whether you're a Columbus resident or visiting from afar, Schmidt's Sausage Company offers a genuine taste of German culinary tradition that has stood the test of time. The combination of quality products, historical significance, and welcoming atmosphere makes it a destination worth experiencing for anyone interested in authentic German food culture.

Is Schmidt's Sausage Company in Columbus family-owned?

Yes, Schmidt's Sausage Company remains family-owned and operated, currently in its fourth generation of family management since its founding in 1886.

What are Schmidt's most popular sausage varieties in Columbus?

Schmidt's most popular sausage varieties include their original German bratwurst, weisswurst, knockwurst, bierwurst, and leberkäse, all made fresh daily using traditional recipes.

Does Schmidt's Sausage in German Village offer vegetarian options?

While Schmidt's specializes in meat products, they do offer some vegetarian side dishes including potato pancakes, red cabbage, and spaetzle. However, their primary focus remains traditional German meat specialties.

Can I purchase Schmidt's sausages online for delivery?

Schmidt's Sausage Company does not currently offer nationwide online ordering and shipping. Their products are available for purchase at their German Village location or through select local Ohio retailers.

Is parking available near Schmidt's Sausage in Columbus?

Yes, street parking is available along High Street and surrounding side streets in German Village. The area also features bike racks, and COTA bus routes stop within two blocks of the establishment.