
Well, we tried… but not hard enough!
Back in October, we made (what we believed to be) a valiant effort to reverse the curse on what might be the most jinxed restaurant location in all of Central Ohio.
You know it. It’s that spot at 1333 Northwest Blvd, across from the Award-winning Ohio Taproom. Yes, it has an awkward 5-way intersection. Yes, the parking lot in front isn’t massive. But other spots around it are thriving! And for a minute, things were looking up. Urban Gourmet had moved in, the food was tasty, and hope was cautiously high.
Our video even gained some traction! Things were looking good!
I truly thought Urban Gourmet had what it takes to end the curse with their incredible wings and that Cajun Chicken Pasta 🤤
But if you’ve driven by recently, you probably noticed something missing: The Urban Gourmet sign is no longer on the building. Before that, a lonely sheet of paper quietly appeared on the front door announcing a temporary closure and redirecting customers to their East Market location.
What’s Going On?
I’m not saying this building is completely cursed… but I’m also not not saying that. Urban Gourmet didn’t make it a year in this location, just like so many of its predecessors. Although things look bleak for now, we have to gear up for the war of our lives – ensuring the next tenant thrives!
I can even hear your thoughts through the screen right now, wondering “well who is moving in now?” Would you be proud of me if I had an answer at the ready?
If yes, then you’re about to be very happy and very proud. A Japanese joint called Ninja House Hibachi Express is taking over.
They’re not open as of this writing, but signs are up and hours are posted:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday–Saturday: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 8:30 PM
They’ll be serving up affordable hibachi combos that include cabbage, fried rice, and two sauces (you already know I’m double-dipping and getting two yum yums). Prices start at just $9.99 for the vegetable combo and go up to $14.99 for scallops, with options like chicken, steak, shrimp, and salmon in between.
They’re also slinging appetizers like gyoza, shrimp shumai, edamame, and egg rolls, plus sides like steamed rice and veggies (zucchini, mushrooms, onions, broccoli, and cabbage).

Will Ninja House be the hero that finally breaks the curse of 1333 Northwest Blvd? We’ll find out soon… stay tuned to our newsletter for the official word on their opening!
📍 1333 Northwest Blvd, Columbus, OH 43212
📞 (614) 745-0033
For heaven’s sake, Columbus… let’s get this one to stick.
Go visit Urban Gourmet’s original location in the East Market at 212 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205 and show them some love. They deserve it!

