Licking County • March 26, 2025
Good morning, Licking County. The aroma of fire-roasted meats will soon waft through Columbus as Brazilian steakhouse giant Fogo de Chão prepares to open its first Ohio location on March 31. This Polaris Parkway addition brings the authentic churrasco experience to our area, with tableside carving service and options ranging from full meat feasts to vegetarian alternatives. The chain's arrival marks another culinary milestone for Central Ohio's increasingly diverse dining scene.
Meanwhile, adaptive reuse is breathing new life into Columbus landmarks. A historic downtown mansion once home to Ohio Governor Judson Harmon is transforming into "Topiary Mansion," an intimate event venue preserving 15-foot ceilings and original hardwood floors. On the community front, City Council candidate Tiara Ross is championing a revival of senior-friendly code enforcement, pushing for a $1.2 million program to help older residents maintain their homes and age in place with dignity rather than face punitive fines.
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👵 Columbus candidate fights for senior-friendly code enforcement policies. Tiara Ross, running for City Council District 7, wants to revive a $1.2 million program helping seniors address housing code violations. As an assistant city attorney, Ross already works on a specialty court docket helping about 50 people with these issues. She argues the city should be proactive rather than reactive, allowing seniors to "age in place with dignity" by addressing financial and physical barriers to home maintenance. The program was recently cut due to budget constraints, though officials say they already try to focus on compliance rather than issuing fines.
🥩 Brazilian steakhouse chain Fogo de Chão arrives in Columbus March 31. The new Polaris Parkway location marks the company's first Ohio restaurant, bringing its signature churrasco-style dining experience to the city. Guests can choose from various dining packages featuring fire-roasted meats carved tableside, from the full experience with multiple cuts to single-cut options. Despite its meat-centric focus, the restaurant offers vegetarian and seafood alternatives, with children under 6 eating free. Founded in 1979, Fogo de Chão now operates 97 locations worldwide with ambitious expansion plans.
🏛️ Historic mansion transforms into downtown Columbus event space. Jason Parks converted his digital marketing firm's office at 394 E. Town St. into "Topiary Mansion," utilizing space left vacant by hybrid work trends. The 7,000-square-foot building, once home to Ohio Governor Judson Harmon, maintains its historic charm with 15-foot ceilings and original hardwood floors. Interior designer Natalie Calderone helped create multiple environments including a first-floor lounge and third-floor "speakeasy" bar, targeting "micro" events of around 50 people. Opening in late April, the venue allows guests to bring their own food and alcohol for cost-effective gatherings.
Upscale Woodland Reserve Home: Priced at $425,000, this stunning 2,600 sq. ft. home on a cul-de-sac features upscale details throughout, with four bedrooms, multiple living spaces, and a private backyard backing to a wooded reserve.
Roomy updated home private setting: This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is listed at $350,000 and features a vaulted living room, large kitchen, and full basement, with recent upgrades including a new roof and no backyard neighbors.
Secluded acreage estate impressive amenities: This private, one-owner retreat with 3-4 bedrooms on 15+ acres is listed at $799,900, featuring dual fireplaces, a sprawling kitchen, finished lower level, enclosed patio, guest house, and a brand-new roof.
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