We love supporting new and existing restaurants around Columbus. It’s about so much more than food and drinks. Good restaurants offer a home away from home for regulars, a place to celebrate the highs and wish away the lows, and the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends.
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.
Sapporo Sushi Factory
New management had taken over in 2015, and loyal diners were told the owner has now retired. For many, it was a neighborhood staple that will be missed.
Parable Café
Downtown’s gratuity-free coffee shop, Parable Café, has pressed pause. The café, which opened its High Street space in 2022 after a pop-up run inside Comune, announced on Instagram that “all operations [are] paused for the time being” while working through business issues. But behind the scenes, staff shared accounts of late paychecks and clashes with new ownership.
READ MORE: Parable Cafe Has Closed Temporarily And Employee Are Voicing Concerns
GENJIGO (Downtown)
The Downtown location of GENJIGO has permanently closed. The fast-casual hibachi spot first opened at 77 E. Gay St. in 2021 but shuttered earlier this summer with little fanfare. A sign on the door confirmed the closure, but if you’re craving GENJIGO, don’t worry, there are several other central Ohio locations, including Reynoldsburg, Grove City, Pickerington, and Lewis Center.
Chapman’s Eat Market
After five memorable years in German Village, Chapman’s Eat Market has closed. The beloved restaurant marked the occasion with a heartfelt message on Facebook, reflecting on its evolution from takeout during the pandemic to dim sum dinners and 8-course tasting menus.
Owner BJ Lieberman thanked both guests and staff, saying, “Five years is a HELL of a run!” The farewell was filled with gratitude and love for the community, cementing Chapman’s as one of the city’s most celebrated dining stories.
Diaspora
Technically a July closure, but worth mentioning: Diaspora has served its last bowl of noodles near campus. The Korean eatery at 2118 N. High St. had been a staple since 2007, known for bibimbap, ramen, and comforting late-night meals.
“After 18 unforgettable years, we’ll be closing our doors for the last time,” the owners shared on social media. “It’s been an incredibly challenging, humbling, and beautiful journey—one we couldn’t have taken without you. From students and faculty to longtime locals and new neighbors, thank you for making us part of your daily rituals, late-night cravings, and everything in between. We’ve made the difficult decision to accept our landlord’s offer to end our lease early.”
