The Clarmont, one of Columbus’ landmark restaurants, unexpectedly closed its doors today. The announcement ended 65 years of serving food and drink to hungry and thirsty central Ohio patrons. No reason was given for the decision.
The Clarmont was one of the anchors on High Street in German Village. From its dated, Jetsons-like sign, to its highball drinks and traditional steak and seafood menu items, the Clarmont screamed “old school.” That was one of the charms of the place, and made the Clarmont a restaurant landmark. It was a place to have a drink after work or, for some people, to have a “power breakfast.” I recall going there for lunch a few times, but I haven’t been there in years. Perhaps the clientele that appreciates old school restaurants has just dwindled to the point where the restaurant was no longer profitable.
The closing of the Clarmont is a reminder that many of Columbus’ former landmark restaurants aren’t around anymore. The kitschy Kahiki is gone. The Jai Lai (“In all the world there’s only one”) is long gone. Jack Bowman’s Suburban Steakhouse is gone. The Top is still here, and the Florentine, and perhaps one or two others — but there really aren’t many of the landmarks left.
Webner House 