As the restaurant nears its fifth birthday, and the end of its lease, owner and chef BJ Lieberman made the tough call to wrap up the Chapman’s chapter on a high note.

“We were faced with the difficult decision on whether or not to continue what we’ve started at Chapman’s,” the restaurant shared in a statement. “Inevitably, we chose to finish our story on a high note, celebrating all that we have accomplished and created over the years and within these walls, including the team that we’ve built and the memories we made.”

An exact closing date hasn’t been announced yet, but the team promises one more month of service filled with crowd favorites, like the General Tso’s cauliflower, khao soi, and the ever-iconic maple budino. So if you’ve got a favorite dish or just want to soak up that cozy, eclectic Chapman’s energy one more time, now’s your chance.

A Spot That Put Columbus On the Map

When Chapman’s opened in 2020, it quickly became one of the most exciting restaurants in Columbus—not just for the food, but for the experience. Tucked into the former Max & Erma’s building in German Village, the restaurant earned a reputation for playful, globally inspired dishes that were comforting, surprising, and consistently delicious.

It didn’t take long for the accolades to roll in. In 2021, The New York Times named Chapman’s one of the “50 Restaurants We’re Most Excited About,” a huge nod for both the restaurant and the city’s food scene. And last year, BJ Lieberman was recognized as a semifinalist in the James Beard Awards for Best Chef in the Great Lakes region.

Lieberman’s background includes time at some of the country’s most celebrated kitchens, including Michelin-starred Rose’s Luxury and Little Pearl in Washington, D.C., as well as the legendary Husk in Charleston. In Columbus, he’s continued to grow and evolve, from Chapman’s to the moody Ginger Rabbit Jazz Lounge, and more recently, with the opening of Hiraeth in the Short North.

What’s Next?

For now, Chapman’s fans still have a few weeks to enjoy one last meal at the restaurant. A final day of service will be announced in August, but until then, the team is inviting everyone to stop in and celebrate the legacy they’ve built.

The post This Critically-Acclaimed Eatery In German Village Is Shutting Down appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

But sadly, all good things must come to an end. We highlight new restaurants that are opening every month, but we also think that it’s important to let people know when local spots close.

Get ready to say goodbye to some of the delicious eateries that have closed here in Columbus over the past month.

Nada

There was no formal public announcement, but the signs were clear: the Columbus location disappeared from Nada’s website, and a “Permanently Closed” notice appeared on the restaurant’s doors.

The spot was known for its upscale take on tacos, margaritas, and vibrant dining space — and while the closure is disappointing, Nada continues to operate in other cities.

The Hickory House (Gahanna)

The family-owned restaurant had been serving up barbecue classics since 1979, with the Gahanna location opening in 2003. Famous for two-pound baby back ribs and a housemade BBQ sauce, Hickory House leaves behind a long legacy of neighborhood comfort food.

A Blessed Cookie Co.

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After nearly 30 years in the Arena District, A Blessed Cookie Co. has officially closed its storefront at 3 Nationwide Plaza.

The business, known for its old-school charm and delicious scratch-made cookies, cited the current financial climate as the reason for closing.

In a social media statement, owner Dee Tolber shared:

“The decision is bittersweet. We have enjoyed and will miss the daily interactions with you… [but] this decision will allow ABC to explore opportunities for increased future revenues.”

While the shop is closing and online sales are paused for now, the team has hinted that this isn’t the end. Stay tuned to their Instagram for what’s next.

Café Istanbul (Bexley)

The restaurant, located at 2455 E. Main St., did not make a formal announcement, but city officials confirmed the closure. The Bexley location’s website is no longer active, though their affiliated restaurants at Easton and Dublin remain open.

Whether it was your go-to for lamb shank, baklava, or a special occasion dinner, Cafe Istanbul will be missed by many in the neighborhood.

Marino’s Seafood Fish & Chips

After 32 years on W. 5th Avenue, Marino’s Seafood Fish & Chips has served its last platter. The longtime local favorite announced it would be closing at the end of June.

Known for its no-frills, deep-fried comfort food and loyal neighborhood following, Marino’s closure is another blow for fans of Columbus’ old-school eateries. But it’s not all bad news. Arthur Treacher’s is coming back to the space, returning to Columbus years after their final shop closed here.

The post Say Goodbye: 5 Columbus Restaurants That Closed This Month appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

The family-owned business, tucked along West 5th Avenue in Grandview Heights, shared the news with customers in a heartfelt social media post. “We are saddened to say goodbye,” the announcement read, “but the memories will last forever.” The closure comes as the shop’s longtime owners head into retirement, and hopefully, into plenty of quality time with their grandchildren.

How It All Started

Known for their personal touch, classic arrangements, and deep neighborhood roots, 5th Avenue Floral was more than just a flower shop. It began in 1901 near the banks of the Olentangy River in what’s now Harrison West, with greenhouses and a storefront that supplied homegrown blooms to a growing city.

Known in its early days for homegrown chrysanthemums, roses, and carnations, the business flourished thanks to community support and the company’s impact reached far beyond flower arrangements. In the early 1900s, they donated thousands of plants for city beautification projects and community food efforts, and even provided the floral displays for Columbus’ centennial and a World War I homecoming parade.

Moving to Kenny Road

In 1945, the shop moved to its now-iconic location on Kenny Road, where its red neon sign became a landmark, glowing through nearly 80 years of birthdays, holidays, and just-because bouquets.

In the days leading up to their final deliveries, customers stopped in to say their goodbyes, stock up on sale items, and thank the team for more than a century of blooming memories.

As this chapter ends, the legacy of 5th Avenue Floral Co. lives on, if only in memories, scrapbooks, and wedding albums all around Columbus.

The post After More Than A Century, An Iconic Columbus Florist Closes Its Doors appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

“Closing this location is very bittersweet for us,” said Troy Allen, Founder and CEO of Rise Brands. “16-Bit started everything for Rise Brands, and it’s had a huge impact on our rapid growth throughout the years.”

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While the downtown spot is shutting down, the party isn’t over just yet. Fans can still get their fix at 16-Bit’s Bridge Park and Indianapolis locations, and if you’re looking for free arcade games, Easton’s Pins Mechanical Co. has you covered.

To send the OG location off in style, 16-Bit is hosting a “Final Round” party on March 28 from 4 p.m. to 2:30 a.m., with giveaways and drink specials. If you’ve got a favorite game or drink you’ve been meaning to revisit, now’s your chance—because after March, this high-score legend is calling it game over.

Featured image via Facebook.

The post Press F to Pay Respects: 16-Bit’s Original Location Is Closing Soon appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Forever 21, the fast-fashion juggernaut that defined our teen and early adult years, is closing all of its U.S. locations—including its nine stores in Ohio.

If you’ve been paying attention, this news probably doesn’t come as a huge surprise. The company has been struggling for years, closing its Easton location back in 2019 and its Polaris store earlier this year.

That left just one Forever 21 standing in central Ohio—at The Mall at Tuttle Crossing—but it won’t be around for much longer. The brand cited foreign competition, rising costs, and rapidly shifting fashion trends as reasons for its downfall.

For those of us who grew up in the heyday of Forever 21, this one stings a little. Remember combing through those chaotic racks for the perfect $12 party dress? Or filling your closet with trendy pieces that you knew probably wouldn’t last more than a season—but who cared when they were so cheap?

At its peak in the early 2000s, Forever 21 was a staple, right up there with Abercrombie & Fitch, H&M, and Lacoste. It was the place to go for a last-minute outfit before a night out, an impromptu shopping spree at the mall, or just some good old-fashioned retail therapy.

But times have changed.

Gen Z has largely turned its back on fast fashion, opting instead for thrifting, vintage finds, and sustainable shopping. Meanwhile, even us Millennials have started questioning the appeal of flimsy fabric and fleeting trends. The world moved on, and Forever 21 just couldn’t keep up.

The company will keep its U.S. website up and running for now as it searches for a final buyer. If they find one, there’s a chance some stores might stick around. If not, Forever 21 as we know it will soon be gone for good.

Ohio’s last locations will close in the coming months, so if you feel the need for one last chaotic bargain-hunting spree, now’s your chance. RIP to the store that gave us questionable sequins, piles of neon accessories, and more crop tops than any of us needed. It was a ride.

The post A Fast-Fashion Giant Is Closing All Remaining Stores In Ohio appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

According to a heartfelt statement from the restaurant, located at 660 N. High St, the closure comes after unsuccessful negotiations with their landlord to renew their lease.

Despite their best efforts, they were unable to reach an agreement, forcing them to make the difficult decision to shut down.

In a social media post, the restaurant shared, “After nearly 20 years of proudly serving this community, we are deeply saddened to announce the closure of our family-owned restaurant. Despite our best efforts to renew our lease, we’ve been unable to reach an agreement with our landlord and are being forced to close.”

While this chapter is ending, there’s still hope for fans of the restaurant. The Happy Greek’s owners are actively exploring options for a new location, with plans to share updates via social media.

For now, there’s still time to grab one last gyro and say goodbye to a Columbus favorite before it closes this weekend. Stay tuned for more updates on where The Happy Greek may pop up next.

Featured image via Facebook.

The post The Happy Greek Is Closing After Nearly 20 Years in the Short North appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

A Columbus Staple Since the 1960s

Hal and his wife, Audrey Block, started Block’s Hot Bagels with a simple mission: bring a taste of New York City to Columbus. Over the years, the shop became more than just a place to grab a bagel—it became a community gathering spot, known for its warm atmosphere, classic schmears, and commitment to quality. Their son, Steven Block, later joined the business, helping it grow into a local institution.

But with no active family members left to run the bakery and the lease on the McNaughten Road location coming to an end, the family has decided this is the right moment for transition.

A Legacy That Will Live On

Block’s last day of operation will be Sunday, March 2, and while this may feel like the end, the family has hinted that this isn’t necessarily goodbye forever. They remain hopeful about finding ways to continue the Block’s legacy in Columbus.

In a heartfelt statement, the Block family expressed their gratitude to the community and the many employees who helped make Block’s what it is. “It has been an honor to serve you and your families,” they shared, acknowledging the love and support they’ve received over the years.

For now, Columbus bagel lovers will have just a few more weeks to savor one last bite of a Block’s bagel.

The post Block’s Bagels Is Closing After Nearly 60 Years in Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

After careful consideration, the company has decided to permanently discontinue these menu items, marking the official end of an era for Krema’s lunch counter, which has served up tasty bites and creamy shakes since 2004.

In a social media post, the company explained that as its retail and mail-order business has grown.

But so have the demands on its small staff and limited space. With this expansion, it’s become necessary for Krema to reassess how its retail area is used to best serve the evolving needs of its business and customers.

As much as we’ll miss those fresh sandwiches and signature shakes, it’s important to remember that Krema Nut Co. is still the go-to spot for all things nuts and gifting. Whether you’re shopping for a gift or picking up your favorite snack, Krema will continue to be a staple in the community.

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Since November 4, the sandwich and milkshake counter has been closed for the holiday season, so this announcement just marks the official end of these offerings moving forward. The company mentioned that opening and closing the counter around the holidays was simply not feasible given logistics and staffing challenges.

For those mourning the loss of the Buckeye milkshake, there is a glimmer of hope.

Krema Nut Co. shared that it’s working on a partnership with Johnson’s Real Ice Cream to offer the iconic Buckeye and Peanut Butter shakes at their shop. Until then, though, Krema’s got a simple hack to recreate the magic at home: mix vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and peanut butter sauce to whip up your very own Buckeye shake.

Krema Nut Co. has been a fixture in Grandview Heights since 1927, with the sandwich counter addition in 2004. While it’s sad to see this chapter close, the company’s long history of providing quality nuts and snacks will continue to delight customers for years to come.

To see what kind of products Krema Nut Co. is offering, head over to krema.com.

The post Krema Nut Co. Shutters Its Sandwich Counter After 20+ Years appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Owner Danny Chung shared the bittersweet news on Facebook, announcing that the beloved eatery’s final day of service was New Year’s Day.

In his heartfelt message, Chung thanked the community for their support over the past 30+ years and shared that he’s looking forward to spending more time with his family and grandkids in retirement.

Sunflower first opened in 1986 and quickly became a neighborhood favorite, especially for its Sunday dim sum brunch. Over the years, it earned a reputation for its delicious, affordable menu and warm atmosphere.

For those who grew up in the area or made Sunday brunch at Sunflower a tradition, this news marks the end of an era. From big family dinners to quiet meals with friends, Sunflower’s presence in the community will undoubtedly be missed.

As Danny Chung steps into this new chapter, we wish him all the best in retirement. Columbus may have lost a restaurant staple, but the memories made over plates of dim sum and bowls of steaming noodles will live on.

The post This Cantonese Hotspot Has Closed Permanently After Decades appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

In a press release, Big Lots explained that while they’re hopeful for a last-minute save, they’re rolling out these liquidation sales to protect what’s left of their assets.

“We all have worked extremely hard and have taken every step to complete a going concern sale,” said Bruce Thorn, Big Lots’ President and CEO. “While we remain hopeful that we can close an alternative going concern transaction, in order to protect the value of the Big Lots estate, we have made the difficult decision to begin the GOB process.”

If you’ve been keeping tabs, you know this isn’t Big Lots’ first big blow. The company’s bankruptcy proceedings have already shuttered over 400 stores nationwide, with 20 of those closures happening right here in Ohio. That includes spots in Westerville, Newark, and the Grandview area of Columbus. As of now, Big Lots is down to just over 1,350 stores across the U.S., a noticeable drop from its 1,425 locations earlier this year.

For shoppers, this might be your last chance to snag a deal at Big Lots before the doors close for good. And while the stores and online shopping are still up and running, the clock is ticking.

It’s a tough moment for a brand that’s been a go-to for bargain hunters for decades. Here’s hoping Big Lots can find a way to stay in the game.

Featured image via Wikimedia Commons.

The post Big Lots Is Calling It Quits And Closing All Stores appeared first on Columbus Navigator.