WASHINGTON COURT HOUSE, Ohio – The Frisch’s Big Boy restaurant in Washington Court House is set to close its doors next Tuesday, marking the latest in a string of closures for the iconic chain across Ohio.
The closure comes as Frisch’s faces significant financial challenges. NNN REIT LP, the investment company that owns many of the chain’s properties, recently filed 17 eviction lawsuits in Southwest Ohio, alleging that the restaurant chain is $4.6 million behind on rent payments.
In a press release, Frisch’s CEO James Short acknowledged the difficulties facing the brand while expressing optimism for the future. “We are very grateful and extremely excited to have the opportunity to carry this beloved icon forward,” Short stated. “Some Frisch’s units are no longer viable. However, other units are well situated to move forward, and we plan to invest in those locations and add new units in the years ahead.”
This closure follows the recent shuttering of the Grove City location, which was the last remaining Frisch’s in Franklin County. Across the state, Ohioans have been sharing nostalgic memories of the chain on social media, posting selfies with the signature Big Boy statue and bidding farewell to the closing restaurants.
Frisch’s Big Boy has long been a staple in the Midwest dining scene, and the news of its struggles has resonated with fans across the region. While some locations will remain open and new investments are planned, the closures mark the end of an era for many communities.
