The last standing York Steak House, a beloved Columbus institution, is officially up for sale.
Yep, you read that right. This iconic restaurant on West Broad Street is looking for a new owner, marking the end of an era for many steak enthusiasts and long-time patrons.
In a heartfelt Facebook post on Tuesday, the restaurant announced that owner Jay Bettin is planning to retire after an impressive 45-year run.
Here’s a little throwback for you: the first York Steak House opened in Columbus way back in 1966. It was part of a charming little cluster of eateries known as The Patio off Morse Road. It didn’t take long for York to carve out its place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals, and soon enough, it was expanding into shopping malls across the country.
The brand hit its peak in the late ’70s after being snapped up by the General Mills Restaurant Group. By 1976, there were nearly 180 York Steak House locations serving up steak dinners to hungry mall-goers. But as mall food courts began to rise in popularity, sales at York Steak House locations started to slump. One by one, these beloved steakhouses began to shutter.
Despite the decline, the West Broad Street location managed to hold on.
This last bastion of the York empire remained family-owned and operated, keeping the spirit of the original steakhouse alive for dedicated customers.
Jay Bettin, the heart and soul behind this Columbus staple, shared his thoughts in the Facebook post: “The restaurant continues to have great success and offers a perfect opportunity for a future owner.” It’s clear Jay’s passion for the business has been a driving force behind its longevity. But now, he’s ready to enjoy a well-deserved retirement.
For those of you wondering about the future of this nostalgic spot, it’s still up in the air.
It’s not known if the new owner will keep the doors open or if the steakhouse will undergo a transformation. However, Greg Hrabcak, the contact for potential buyers, has expressed hope that the restaurant will continue to serve up its classic dishes.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of owning a piece of Columbus history and have a knack for running a successful business, this might be your chance! Serious inquiries can reach out to Greg Hrabcak at GregHrabcak@HannaCRE.com or call 614-906-2227.
As we say goodbye to the restaurant itself, it is goodbye to York Steak House under Jay’s stewardship, we can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. Whether you’re a long-time customer or a newcomer who’s only heard the tales, there’s no denying that this place holds a special spot in Columbus’ culinary history. Here’s to hoping the next chapter is just as flavorful and memorable!
If you’re in the mood for another trip down memory lane with a delicious steak dinner, the restaurant plans to keep regular business hours during the sale.