This year has been a tough one for Columbus foodies and fans of local landmarks. We’ve lost some true staples that defined our city, shaped our neighborhoods, and filled our bellies with joy. From legendary pizza joints to beloved campus dive bars, these closures feel like saying goodbye to old friends.
Let’s take a walk down memory lane to honor five Columbus classics that closed their doors in 2024, leaving a void we’re still trying to fill.
1. Zamarelli’s Pizza Palace
If you grew up in Southwest Columbus, you probably had Zamarelli’s on speed dial (or at least knew their number by heart). For over six decades, this Grove City legend served up what many call the quintessential Columbus-style pizza. Friday nights with a pie from Zammy’s weren’t just a meal — they were a tradition.
Founded in 1963 by Andy Zamarelli, this family-owned pizzeria brought recipes straight from Italy to central Ohio. Tina Zamarelli-Middendorf and her husband, Jack, carried the torch for over 30 years before announcing their well-deserved retirement — and with it, the bittersweet end of an era.
Lines wrapped around the block as loyal fans came for one final slice, proving just how much this spot meant to the community. Zammy’s, you weren’t just a pizza place, you were a family tradition. Enjoy your retirement, Tina and Jack, and thank you for the memories (and the pepperoni).
2. Milestone 229
If you’ve ever strolled along the Scioto Mile, chances are you’ve stopped to admire the dancing fountains, the stunning skyline views, and, of course, Milestone 229. This iconic downtown restaurant wasn’t just about the food (although their elevated comfort dishes were top-notch), it was about the experience: panoramic views, sunsets that could stop you in your tracks, and a vibe that made every visit feel special.
After a decade of serving creative cocktails and scratch-made eats, Milestone announced it couldn’t reach a lease agreement with the city. And just like that, one of the most picturesque spots in Columbus will soon become a memory.
There’s still time to say goodbye — so grab a cocktail, soak in the views, and toast to one of Columbus’s most stunning dining spots before it’s gone the first of the year.
3. Bier Stube
Ohio State fans, this one hurts. For nearly 60 years, Bier Stube was more than a campus dive bar… it was an institution. A rite of passage. A place where jukebox singalongs and cheap beers created lifelong memories.
But progress waits for no one. Bier Stube will make way for a 13-story apartment complex, joining the growing list of University District landmarks lost to development.
From the dimly lit booths to the familiar faces behind the bar, “The Stube” wasn’t just a place to grab a drink — it was a second home for generations of Buckeyes. Raise your glasses one last time, because the campus skyline may be changing, but Bier Stube will always hold a place in our hearts. Here’s a pic of me and my college buddies enjoying the Stube during our Senior Crawl a few years back… 😢
4. Paul’s Fifth Avenue
For 58 years, Paul’s Fifth Avenue was a cornerstone of the Grandview Heights neighborhood. Whether you were craving a classic diner breakfast or a stacked sandwich, Paul’s was there to deliver.
Owner Paul Panzera announced earlier this year that it was time to move on to new adventures, marking the end of an era for this cozy eatery. With over 7 million meals served, Paul’s leaves behind a legacy of warm smiles, great food, and memories that stretch across generations.
Paul’s, we’ll miss you — and yes, we’re still thinking about those sandwiches.
5. Little Palace Restaurant + Bar
Little Palace wasn’t just a downtown diner — it was a time capsule. From the retro decor to the comfort food classics like gyros, strombolis, and wedge fries, this spot was a favorite for both quick lunches and late-night bites.
Their motto, “You’re a stranger here but once,” captured the spirit of a place that felt like home, no matter who you were. Losing Little Palace is losing a piece of downtown Columbus history, and it stings more than a little.
These closures remind us how important local institutions are, not just for the food, but for the memories, the stories, and the community they build. Let’s cherish what we still have and raise a toast to what we’ve lost.
And maybe, just maybe, we’ll all take this moment to visit a local restaurant tonight… you never know when it’ll be your last chance.
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