One of Central Ohio’s most historic restaurant spaces is welcoming guests again.
The Wolf’s Ridge at Worthington Inn officially opens today, April 29, marking the return of dining to a building that has served the community in various ways since the 1800s.
The former Worthington Inn has been closed since 2018.
Now, after months of renovations, the space has been reimagined by the team behind Wolf’s Ridge Brewing, with a focus on preserving its history while introducing something new.
Walking into the restaurant, the balance between old and new is immediately noticeable. Original elements have been preserved and layered with updated design details, including added woodwork, custom seating, and hand-painted murals.
Co-owner Bob Szuter said the goal was to respect the building’s long history while creating a space that feels welcoming and relevant today.
The result is a series of dining rooms filled with historical touches, including artwork inspired by Worthington’s past, alongside design elements that make the space feel warm and comfortable.
Szuter said the team was drawn to the project in part because of the building itself, which dates back to 1831 and has housed hospitality businesses for generations.
“There’s been activity in this building for nearly 200 years,” he said. “To be able to bring that energy back is really special.”
The kitchen is led by executive chef Kris Ludwig, with a menu centered around approachable tavern fare with British influences and seasonal ingredients.
Lunch offerings include items like fish and chips, burgers, a mushroom BLT and a lighter take on French onion soup. Dinner expands into dishes like pork chops, sirloin filet and creative plant-based options such as mushroom-based scallops.
There are also classic pub-style starters and bar snacks, with more traditional British dishes expected to roll out over time.
For the first few weeks, the restaurant will operate with limited seating as the team settles into service.
Reservations are available, and walk-ins will be accommodated when possible. Szuter said the team wants to take a measured approach as they get up to speed.
“We want to make sure we’re taking care of our staff and giving them time to find a rhythm,” he said.
A lower-level concept called “The Wolf’s Den,” planned as a cocktail-focused space, is also in the works and expected to open in the coming months.
For Wolf’s Ridge, the decision to take on the Worthington Inn wasn’t just about expansion.
Szuter said the team has passed on other opportunities over the years, waiting for a project that felt like the right fit. Older spaces like this one carry a sense of connection that can be hard to replicate, he said, and that played a major role in the decision.
Now, with the doors open again, the team is looking forward to welcoming the community back into a space that has been part of Worthington’s story for generations.
To make a reservation, or to explore the dining and beer options, head over to worthingtoninn.com.
