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Take A Look At The New Event Venue From Wolf’s Ridge, Understory

Wolf’s Ridge Brewing is expanding, and we’ve got a sneak peek.

The local brewery and restaurant will be launching a new concept, Understory, at Open Air (2571 Neil Ave.) The new space is already taking bookings

Understory will call Open Air home. Open Air has been undergoing renovations by the Kelley Companies for the past year and a half. Understory will operate a portion of the space, featuring unique cocktails, a progressive food menu, and a private event space.

There will be a variety of rooms onsite, with free-flowing seating where guests can enjoy food and drinks.

Understory event space with round tables, wooden chairs, and tall arched windows
Courtesy of Wolf’s Ridge.

The space will be opening in phases. While the general consumer spaces have yet to open, the event rental space has begun accepting reservations. The other spaces within Open Air are expected to open by the end of 2021.

Understory event space viewed through brick columns with round tables and arched windows
Courtesy of Wolf’s Ridge.
Brick hallway with pastel blue lockers and tile floor at Understory event venue
Courtesy of Wolf’s Ridge.

“The launch of this new concept is a huge milestone for us. It is a venture we’ve had in mind for a while, but never quite found the right location and partnership,” said Bob Szuter, cofounder of Wolf’s Ridge Brewing and Open Air back in June. “On top of that, 2020 was a rough year for our entire industry, and it means the world to us to have the opportunity to grow. We recognize how lucky we are, and we’re really looking forward to creating something that will bring excitement and positivity to customers and our community during a time where we couldn’t need that more.”

Understory stairwell with tall arched windows, a wood railing, and brick walls
Courtesy of Wolf’s Ridge.

The space at Open Air will provide Understory with unique nature vibes and direct access to the Olentangy Trail. Open Air was originally constructed as a two-story school building in 1927. The school was built for students who were susceptible to tuberculosis and who would benefit from the fresh air.

Historic black-and-white exterior view of the Open Air School building
Photo of the Open Air School, a facility for students afflicted with tuberculosis. Construction began August 16, 1927, during a time when specialized tuberculosis sanitariums, homes, and other facilities were increasing across the country. Photo via CML.

Currently, Open Air has two vacant office spaces that will be occupied by future tenants and a new building on the property that houses The Butcher Shop Fitness. A local cafe will also occupy the shared space.

If you’d like to see ongoing updates about the new venture, you can visit Understory’s website here.

Chelsea Wiley

Written by

Chelsea Wiley

Chelsea Wiley, first of her name, Queen of the Seven Andals... wait. That's not right. Joking aside, Chelsea is a writer and photographer born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. She is an avid reader and a lover of animals.