This Swanky Hotel Is Your Gateway To a Culinary Adventure in Dublin, Ohio

19.09.2023 - 04:43 / matadornetwork.com

Dublin, Ohio, is often overshadowed by its Irish namesake, though it has a special character all its own with quaint pedestrian-friendly streets, lush green spaces, and a thriving community that seamlessly blends history with modernity. To see it for yourself, it’s hard to beat staying at the AC Hotel Columbus Dublin, which is home to the city’s highest rooftop restaurant, Vaso, where visitors can experience panoramic views of the city’s green oasis.

Photo: Jeanie Fang

Upon entering the hotel’s lobby, I immediately felt like I was stepping into a world of luxury. European-inspired furnishings adorn the open space with low couches positioned to lead the eye directly to the lobby bar in the back. Floor-to-ceiling windows fill the room with natural light, creating a nice contrast to the warm neutral tones of the decor. As I ventured around more of the lobby floor, inviting lounge areas unfolded, each with contemporary furniture. Mirror-like partitions, each equipped with TV screens and fireplaces, artfully divide the lounge areas to offer separate parties their own cozy sections.

The AC Hotel has 150 meticulously designed guestrooms that cater to both business travelers and leisure seekers. My journey began on the eighth floor just beneath the rooftop, where I was welcomed by spacious quarters. The room features a plush couch and a functional desk area, ideal for both unwinding and productive endeavors. Lush greenery, a serene river, and the captivating S-shaped pedestrian bridge can be seen from the floor-to-ceiling window. On the desk, a thoughtful touch awaited me: an AC Hotel placemat with a recipe for its signature gin and tonic along with ingredients for crafting the drink yourself.

Photo: Jeanie Fang

Vaso, the AC Hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar, offers panoramic views of the town from an elevated position. A glass-windowed elevator provides a glimpse of the surrounding scenery as you ascend. The emphasis on natural light and large windows continues at the top with floor-to-ceiling windows and gracefully curved seating. Tables are set with silverware and vibrant red candle holders, evoking the ambiance of a swanky dinner party.

As stunning as the interior is, the exterior of the rooftop restaurant steals the show. The space has a 180-degree view of a vast expanse of greenery as far as the eye can see. Sunsets, soaring birds, and the occasional aircraft sighting made gathering on the rooftop all the more enjoyable. On the weekends, a DJ turns Vaso into a nightclub of sorts where people can dance the night away. Reservable cabanas are perfect for groups In the summer, while in winter, Vaso puts up enchanting bubble-like structures for comfortable outdoor dining that’s out of the cold.

Vaso’s staff