Logan’s Roadhouse, a national steakhouse that previously operated several central Ohio restaurants, is returning to Columbus after purchasing a former O’Charley’s location that closed last year for $2.6 million. The new restaurant will be located at 1657 Stringtown Road, marking Logan’s return to Columbus after the chain’s previous closures in Easton and Dublin back in 2016. This acquisition will bring Logan’s Ohio footprint to three restaurants, with existing locations in Ontario and Cincinnati.
The former O’Charley’s location at 1657 Stringtown Road is one of six Ohio restaurants that closed last year, part of nearly two dozen closures the chain has experienced in recent years. The closures came after the Nashville-based chain faced disruptions to its business, ultimately leading to the difficult decision to shut down certain locations. The CEO of O’Charley’s, W. Craig Barber, stated that the closures were necessary to ensure the brand continues to thrive amidst challenges in the casual dining space.
Another former O’Charley’s location that closed several years ago is currently undergoing a $1.5 million renovation to become the first Ohio restaurant for a Brazilian steakhouse with locations around the world. This marks a shift in the dining landscape for central Ohio, as chains like O’Charley’s are replaced by new and innovative concepts. Currently, O’Charley’s only operates two locations in central Ohio, one in Canal Winchester and another in Reynoldsburg.
While some familiar chains like O’Charley’s are going through transitions and closures, other local and regional chains are expanding in central Ohio. A local Mediterranean chain is set to open two more eateries in the area, showing that there is still growth and opportunity in the dining industry. In addition, Hot Chicken Takeover has been sold to a new restaurant group and will be rebranded in central Ohio locations, highlighting the ever-evolving nature of the restaurant scene in this region.
Overall, the dining landscape in central Ohio is experiencing both closures and expansions, with chains like O’Charley’s facing challenges while others like Logan’s Roadhouse are making a comeback. The industry is constantly evolving, with new concepts and brands entering the market while others exit or undergo changes. These developments reflect the competitive nature of the restaurant industry, where brands have to adapt and innovate to stay relevant and remain successful in a rapidly changing environment.
