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At Big Mal's Linden Cafe, great food and community spirit come together. Situated in Columbus, OH, this Black-owned restaurant is celebrated for its rich offerings of comfort food. From their signature 100 chicken wings to the perfectly smoked rib tips, every dish reflects a commitment to flavor and quality. The cafe's cozy atmosphere makes it perfect for solo dining, while the diverse menu ensures something for everyone, including kids. Patrons rave about the soul food, particularly the mac and cheese and collard greens. With accessible amenities and a warm, inviting vibe, Big Mal's is a must-visit destination for food lovers.Photos
Amenities & More
Service options
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
Reviews for Big Mal's Linden Cafe
Review highlights
Based on 146 reviewsBig Mal's Linden Cafe is widely recognized for its flavorful BBQ and soul food, with particular praise for its greens, mac and cheese, and a variety of well-prepared sides. Customers appreciate the consistently seasoned and skillfully cooked dishes during weekday service, though some note variability in weekend food quality. The menu offers standout items such as Philly cheesesteaks and hot, buttery vegetables, though feedback on specific entrees like turkey ribs and fish is more mixed. While some suggest the fries could be improved, the overall dining experience is viewed positively. Pricing is considered slightly elevated but remains consistent with similar establishments. Repeat visits are common, driven by the desire to explore additional menu options.
Greens probably best I ever had, mac pretty dang good, fries were good and the fish was just ok to me will definitely be back for the sides!
Would give 5 stars, but shout out to the younger guy who works during the week. He is super with the food. Seasoned and cooked to perfection. It's the weekend cook that doesn't have that touch. I ordered 2 Sundays in a row, and the food was bland and basic. Came back during the week, and it confirmed my theory.
The turkey ribs were not good in my opinion I probably will never get them again. I was hoping they were as good as turkey tips that I have gotten from other places but I was greatly disappointed in these. The fish, mac and cheese, greens, and yams were all GREAT! I will definitely return to try other things here.
Big Mal's is delicious they have great BBq and soul food. Definitely would recommend it.
Philly cheesesteak was excellent. Green beans were hot, buttery w a hint of garlic - very tasty. I've had better fries, but they were good. I'll return to sample other menu items. As with all other restaurants these days, the prices were inflated. They were in line with all other restaurants. Yes! I recommend eating at Big Mal's Linden Cafe.
The Rib Tips were big, perfectly smoked and the sauce is on point.
I ate there today and the food tasted like home. I even gave the lady a hug when I was done. The fried whiting was perfect, the mac and cheese was outstanding, and the greens tasted like Thanksgiving. The carrot cake was masterful. DEFINITELY going back.
My dining experience at Big Mal’s was excellent! I got the chicken & fries for lunch and a 2-piece fish dinner. My sides of potato salad and yams were my favorite. I will definitely be back. Thanks for the free samples too.
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Quick info
Opening hours
- Monday Closed
- Tuesday (Today) 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Wednesday 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Thursday 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Friday 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Saturday 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Sunday 12:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Location
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