Schmidt's Sausage Haus

A Columbus institution in German Village since 1967, built into an 1886 structure that was previously a stable, slaughterhouse, and packinghouse. The Schmidt family has kept the authentic German recipes — and the enormous cream puffs — going for generations.

The friendly ghost at Schmidt's has been affectionately dubbed "Grandpa" by staff who have encountered him over the years. The general manager once heard a loud noise and discovered four chairs mysteriously sitting back-to-back in the middle of an otherwise empty room. Even more startling, when he looked at a wall mirror, he saw the reflection of an elderly man smiling and waving at him - though he was completely alone. Grandpa seems to enjoy watching over the restaurant, perhaps a former owner or beloved employee who couldn't bear to leave. His presence is considered benevolent, and staff have come to accept their spectral coworker as part of the Schmidt's family.