New Restaurant 'Arlington Grille' Set to Fill Former Houlihan's Space in Upper Arlington

When Houlihan's shuttered earlier this year, Upper Arlington residents and longtime regulars mourned the loss of a neighborhood staple. For years, the casual dining chain had been a fixture at Kingsdale Shopping Center — the kind of place locals returned to again and again.

Now, that familiar space at 3150 Tremont Rd. has a new chapter ahead of it.

Rick Doody — co-owner of Lindey's, founder of the Brio/Bravo restaurant group, and the driving force behind NCR Ventures, a Cleveland-based restaurant group — has signed a lease on the former Houlihan's location and plans to transform it into Arlington Grille, an upscale bar and grille concept rooted in community.

"Houlihan's was such an institution in the area, and we're leaning into that," said Tony Ciuprinkskas, Director of Executive Support at NCR Ventures. "The concept we're putting in, Arlington Grille, is paying homage to the city. We want to be as connected as we can to the community."

NCR Ventures is currently working through final approvals with the city, but has already shared design renderings for the space. The interior promises a warm, intimate atmosphere — think natural wood finishes, forest green accents, brown leather booths, and moody, dim lighting. Outside, a year-round patio with string lights and an outdoor fireplace will round out the experience.

"It will be a neighborhood grille that offers an upscale approach to dining," Ciuprinkskas said. "But the food will be extremely straightforward."

The menu has already been road-tested at NCR Ventures' Cleveland-area restaurants, including Cedar Creek Grille and 17 River Grille. Lunch offerings will include starters like sushi rolls, dips, and deviled eggs; soups such as French onion and lobster bisque; and a range of salads, sandwiches, and burgers. The dinner menu expands into heartier fare, with house specialties including Idaho Rainbow Trout, pork chops, steak frites, and BBQ ribs.

"Rick Doody is excited to keep growing in Columbus," Ciuprinkskas said. "We felt overwhelming love when we opened Bar Italia" — referring to NCR Ventures' recently opened concept at Easton.

Arlington Grille is targeting an opening before the end of the year, pending final approvals. Upper Arlington may have lost a beloved dining institution — but if all goes to plan, it's about to gain a worthy successor.