It’s the end of an era. The plan to demolish the former Spaghetti Warehouse building is moving forward.
Although it’s no longer home to the restaurant, which moved to a new spot Downtown, preservationists had hoped that the historic building could be saved. The plans for demolition were shared back in January. The plans to tear down the building at 397 W. Broad in order to make way for a new development that included 534 apartment units and over 500-space parking garage.
On Tuesday, the commission approved a revised version of that proposal, which now calls for 235 units and 182 parking spaces.
The new project is owned by Robert Weiler of the Robert Weiler Company, Pat Kelley of Kelley Companies, and Spaghetti Warehouse owner Doug Pak. The owners told the Downtown Commission in a letter that the building was too old and unsafe due to a partial roof collapse in 2022.
“As the current owners of 397 W. Broad St., we would much prefer to save and restore the former Spaghetti Warehouse building and would do so if it was economically feasible,” they wrote. “Safety is the reason why we are demolishing this building.”
So what comes next?
Before anything can be torn down, the commission requires a site plan as well as a historic building survey report.
The new plan includes two buildings that hold a combination for apartment units and parking spaces. There’s also an option for some retail spaces as well. The plans were approved by the commission on October 15.
History of the Spaghetti Warehouse Building
Long before the Spaghetti Warehouse opened its doors in 1978, the building was home to The Crystal Ice Manufacturing and Cold Storage Company. Built in 1891, it eventually became City Ice and Fuel in 1923, and City Products Corporation in 1953.
Spaghetti Warehouse, known for its iconic streetcar dining and other memorabilia, has been a Columbus staple for decades. Their new spot is located at 150 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215.
READ MORE: The Spaghetti Warehouse Has A New Location In The Heart Of Downtown Columbus