After an action-packed summer weekend in Columbus (or elsewhere), it’s pretty easy to stay home and relax.  However, this week, some of the best restaurants in Central Ohio have planned tasting events that should tempt you and your buds to sit back and lounge in a much more active way. 

Tonight, Bexley Monk continues its “2nd Monday” wine dinner series with a menu of “High Brow Fair Foods.”  Taste Lobster & Shrimp Corndogs, a Beefsteak Tomato Salad Stack, Smoked Lamb Ribs, and Mini Elephant Ears, each paired with a different wine for $50 per person (plus tax and gratuity).  Additional information at bexleysmonk.com.

On Wednesday, Z Cucina welcomes Steve Bird and John Hancock for a New Zealand wine event.  Menu highlights include a Spiny Lobster Fritter, New Zealand Fish and Chips, and Squab Under a Blanket.  The evening will feature six courses paired with wines from New Zealand for $70 per person (tax and tip included).  Additional information at zcucina.com. 

Then on Thursday, The Refectory hosts the always popular Annual Best Buy Patio Tasting, featuring 12 unique wines and ten courses of hors d’oeuvres.  If the reservation list for this week’s event proves too tough to crack, the restaurant has scheduled a second date next Wednesday, August 20th.  Visit therefectoryrestaurant.com for all the details.

Recruit some friends to attend with you - strength comes in numbers.