Caroline's Sandwiches

What does being a part of the North Market mean to you and the business?

As a proud merchant at the North Market, Justin relishes the opportunity to be part of Columbus’s dynamic and historic food scene, a vibrant hub where culinary creativity and community converge. His favorite aspect of this experience is the deep, collaborative relationships he maintains with fellow merchants and, most crucially, with local farmers like Yoder Farms. These partnerships allow him to source the freshest, most seasonal ingredients daily, ensuring that every sandwich, salad, and soup at Caroline’s reflects the peak of flavor and quality. The North Market’s unique environment fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, enabling Justin to uphold the exacting standards of his fine dining background while embracing the accessibility and warmth of a market setting. This connection to local agriculture and the market’s diverse community not only fuels his culinary creativity but also reinforces his commitment to celebrating and supporting Central Ohio’s rich food culture.

The Story of Justin Wotring and Caroline’s:

Justin Wotring’s journey to founding Caroline’s Sandwiches is a tapestry woven from rigorous training, global exploration, and a heartfelt commitment to community. A graduate of Sullivan University’s prestigious culinary arts program, Justin mastered the precision and artistry of fine dining, working in esteemed kitchens where he refined his skills in French and Italian cuisines. Yet, it was his travels across France, Spain, Africa, and particularly Lebanon that truly shaped his culinary identity. In Lebanon, he immersed himself in the culture, forging bonds with local families and learning time-honored techniques, from pressing olives to rolling traditional breads. These experiences revealed the interconnectedness of global cuisines, including the Middle Eastern origins of dishes like the Al Pastor taco, which continue to inspire his menu at Caroline’s. Back in Columbus, Justin channels this wealth of knowledge into every sandwich, distilling years of expertise into creations that delight in just 30 seconds. Beyond the kitchen, he is a dedicated advocate for food insecurity through his work with COLO as a chef for “The Lunchbox Program” to provide nutritious meals to children and families in need. For Justin, Caroline’s is more than a restaurant—it’s a platform to share his life’s work, honor his global experiences, and give back to the Columbus community that has embraced him.