Recent Ohio restaurant closures signal a changing dining landscape

Ohio’s restaurant industry continues to experience significant turnover as rising operating costs, labor shortages, inflation, and shifting consumer habits force more establishments to close their doors. While new concepts continue to emerge, several longtime restaurants across the Buckeye State have announced permanent closures in recent months, marking the end of popular local dining destinations.

Mitchell’s Steakhouse closed May 2026

One of the year’s highest-profile closures was Mitchell’s Steakhouse in downtown Columbus, which permanently closed in late May 2026 The upscale steakhouse had served diners in the heart of the city for years but cited changing business conditions in downtown Columbus. Its Polaris location remains open, but the downtown restaurant’s closure leaves another vacant storefront in an area still recovering from reduced office traffic.

Due Amici ends nearly three decades in June

Another longtime Columbus favorite, Due Amici, permanently closed on June 8, 2026, after over 20 years in business. Located in the Arena District, the Italian restaurant became known for serving downtown workers, convention visitors, and Blue Jackets fans before games. Owners thanked loyal customers for decades of support as they announced the difficult decision to close.

Other Ohio restaurants also shut down

Several additional Ohio restaurants have also recently closed. Lemongrass Fusion Bistro in Columbus served its final customers on June 28, 2026, while BD’s Mongolian Grill in Dublin permanently closed on June 14, 2026 after 27 years of operation. 

Industry pressures continue

These closures reflect broader challenges facing restaurants across Ohio. Higher food costs, increased labor expenses, elevated rents, and changing customer dining habits continue to squeeze already thin profit margins. At the same time, several national chains operating in Ohio—including Red Lobster, Pizza Hut, Papa John’s, and Wendy’s—have continued trimming underperforming locations during 2026.

Although the recent closures represent the loss of several beloved restaurants, Ohio’s dining scene remains dynamic. Many of the vacant locations are expected to attract new restaurant concepts, ensuring the state’s culinary landscape continues to evolve even as longtime favorites become part of its history.