Next Up Columbus 2025: Colin Gregory
Name: Colin Gregory
Profession: Owner and Chef at Aubergine Private DIning Club
Neighborhood: Upper Arlington
Education: Some college. Sommelier certification. Sherry Wine Specialist Certification. Chef.
Community Involvement: Make A Wish OKI Advisory Board, NC JC Housing Foundation Board, Founder of the 528 Co-op and the F.E.E.L.S Program lifting up Columbus’ underserved neighborhoods.
Motto: Quality of life must exist in parallel to exceptional service.
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Colin Gregory’s path to purpose wasn’t traditional, but it’s been anything but ordinary. After studying biochemistry in college, Colin took a job behind the bar to pay the bills and unexpectedly fell in love with the fast-paced, people-centered world of hospitality. That passion turned into a calling.
Fifteen years later, Colin became the proud owner and chef of Aubergine Private Dining Club, where he has transformed the concept of fine dining into a force for good. In just five years, Aubergine has launched two proprietary employment programs that create opportunities for underserved individuals, while also supporting more than a dozen local nonprofits through meaningful contributions.
Colin’s mission goes beyond the kitchen. He’s out to change the world from the inside out, one meal, one moment, and one person at a time.
What gets you up in the morning? And what gets you through the workweek?
My passion for this world and its people gets me out of bed. The notion that I can provide experiences that lead to lifelong memories and moments in time is what gets me through the week.
What advice or mentors have helped guide you along the way?
Lead with love and always be authentic. Put compassion, kindness, and empathy first, listen before speaking, and we can truly change the world. I have had a number of mentors, and one prevailing theme exists: love what you do and work hard at it. Success is what you make it.
What do you do or where do you go to unwind?
I like to go foraging in the woods and love to walk creeks looking for ancient Native American artifacts. Nature is where I find my solace.
What are a few of your favorite local spots in Columbus?
The Bottle Shop, Accent Wine Parlor, Figlio.
When you were a kid, what did you say you wanted to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to be a chemist like my grandfather, and in a way, that is exactly what I have become. Every day in hospitality, we utilize chemistry to bring our craft to life.
What books or podcasts are you reading/listening to right now?
I’m re-reading No Reservations by Anthony Bourdain because the perspective and focus on humans that he portrayed was truly remarkable.
What does it mean to you to be chosen for the Next Up Columbus award?
It means I can continue to share my story with my community, and it offers me a chance to create even more change in our community.
If someone were to ask you what the “pulse” of Columbus is, what would you tell them?
I think the Pulse of Columbus is less centralized around an area and instead more focused on our amazing community of arts and events as a whole and a passion for constructive change.
The Next Up Columbus Awards, presented annually by the Columbus Young Professionals Club, recognize emerging leaders who are making a meaningful impact across Central Ohio. These honorees are innovators, connectors, and community champions helping to shape a brighter future for Columbus. Meet the entire Class of 2025 »