Delightful Modern Indian + Cocktails at Rooh in the Short

Since opening in Columbus in late 2019, Rooh in the Short North has continually impressed us. Rooh features what they call progressive Indian food – think modern interpretations of traditional flavors, all paired with an expert bar program.

The eatery sits on a prominent corner in the heart of the Short North. Follow the bright blue trim to find the long space, extending back into the building, with the bar dividing it down the center.

Rooh’s cocktail menu is built around the practice of ayurveda, which originated in the Indian subcontinent. One component of the practice is six rasas, or tastes. The menu currently features 12 cocktails built around these six tastes: sweet, salty, astringent, bitter, pungent, and sour.

The cocktail menu shifts over time, but we’ve found every entry to be thoughtfully composed and beautifully prepared.

And there’s often a bit of fun to to the presentation.

Again, their menu has rotated over time, but we’ve always been impressed with the care and attention to detail put into each dish.

We’ve really loved the cauliflower koliwada, perfectly fried cauliflower served with a lemon sour cream and peanut chutney. Just delightful to eat.

Same with the kerala fried chicken: enticingly crispy and wonderfully seasoned, served with a kerala sauce, curry aioli, and pickled radish.

The butter chicken will probably never leave the menu. The tender bites of chicken are flavored with red pepper, cashew, fenugreek, and butter powder.

The lamb keema hyderabadi reminds me of a shepherd’s pie, covering tender lamb with green peas and a potato mousse, plus a side of house brioche.

The small plates menu often features a different kulcha, or flatbread. These arrive soft and warm, perfect for pulling apart and savoring. The current menu includes a green pea kulcha with goat cheese and truffles and a chicken tikka kulcha.

And of course don’t miss an order or two of the naan, like this Thai chilies and cheese naan.

If dessert is offered, certainly take a look at the menu. Over the years we’ve tasted a fantastic line-up of house-made ice creams, all wonderfully cooling after a rich and flavorful dinner.