Arlington Grille is set to bring a new neighborhood dining concept to Upper Arlington, with Cleveland-based NCR Ventures planning to open the restaurant in the former Houlihan’s space at 3150 Tremont Road this fall, according to Columbus Business First.
The upcoming restaurant will take over the Kingsdale location at 3150 Tremont Road, in Upper Arlington, which previously housed Houlihan’s for more than a decade before closing at the end of last year.
While speaking to WhatNow Columbus, NCR Ventures founder and CEO Rick Doody said the new concept is expected to be a “cool restaurant” focused on serving quality food in a welcoming neighborhood setting.
“We are excited to serve the people of Columbus, and we pride ourselves on serving good food instead of posing good PR,” said Doody.
Arlington Grille will adopt a new brand name, though it is part of NCR Ventures’ established “grille” portfolio, which includes similar concepts in the Cleveland area, such as 17 River Grille, Cedar Creek Grille, and The Lakehouse. While each location carries a different name and slight variations, the overall format and menu style remain consistent.
The concept is described as a classic neighborhood grill featuring burgers, steaks, chicken, fresh fish, appetizers, and a full bar program.
Plans for the 5,500-square-foot space include interior renovations and updated finishes across the bar, flooring, and seating areas. The restaurant will also feature a removable cover for its wraparound patio, allowing for year-round use.
Doody told WhatNow Columbus that the space has strong potential for the concept, citing the building’s existing structure and layout as a natural fit for the brand.
“We’re in a location that we hope will be more convenient for guests.”
NCR Ventures is working with Columbus-based Design Collective on the project.
While the company was not actively seeking to expand in Columbus, Doody told the publication that the opportunity became compelling after viewing the site and recognizing the area’s continued growth.
He added: “We are excited about future growth, but we are very deliberate, and we are very careful about not compromising the quality of our food and service.”
The Upper Arlington location also holds personal significance for Doody, who has deep ties to the Columbus restaurant industry. He is the son of Lindey’s founder, Sue Doody, and previously helped build Bravo Brio Restaurant Group with his brother Chris Doody.
More details on Arlington Grille’s opening timeline are expected in the coming months.
