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Arthur Treacher’s, the fast-food chain famous for its classic fish and chips, has officially opened its doors at a brand-new location in Cleveland Heights. This marks the third Arthur Treacher’s restaurant in Northeast Ohio, but the second that has opened in recent years. And now the move is giving fans hope for the once great chain to make comeback.
The grand opening, which took place on Tuesday, April 1st at 13216 Cedar Road, has generated considerable buzz among Clevelanders who remember the restaurant from its heyday. This new “express” eatery, focusing on carry-out service, occupies a significant spot, as it’s located in a space that previously housed an Arthur Treacher’s from the early 1970s through the 1990s.
This expansion follows the recent reopening of a Garfield Heights location and the long-standing presence of the Cuyahoga Falls restaurant, which for a time was the last remaining standalone Arthur Treacher’s in the nation. Under the guidance of new owner George Simon, the brand is experiencing a revival, much to the delight of loyal customers.
“We wouldn’t be going into our third location if the first two were not working,” Simon stated, expressing his satisfaction with the brand’s current trajectory and hinting at potential future growth with plans for a fourth location already in the works.
For those unfamiliar with Arthur Treacher’s, the restaurant offers a simple yet satisfying menu centered around its signature battered and fried fish, served with thick-cut “chips” (what Americans know as French fries). Other popular items include fried shrimp, chicken, and the much-loved hush puppies.
The Cleveland Heights location is strategically positioned across from Cleveland Heights High School and near the Cedar Lee Meadowbrook development, making it easily accessible to a wide range of customers. While initial opening plans faced a setback due to a fire earlier this year, the newly renovated space is now ready to welcome patrons.
Oliver Savander, Arthur Treacher’s Fish & Chips Operations Director, assured eager fans, “We’re here now. We’re ready to go. Full interior renovation, all new equipment. New hoods, you name it. We didn’t spare any expense on the inside of this building. It looks great and can’t wait for you guys to see it.”
While the immediate focus is firmly on strengthening its presence in Northeast Ohio, the question of a broader, even nationwide, resurgence for Arthur Treacher’s lingers in the air. The brand, which once boasted over 800 locations across the country, holds a significant place in the memories of many Americans.
It’s worth noting that in recent years, Arthur Treacher’s has explored alternative avenues to reach a wider audience. In 2021, Nathan’s Famous, which now owns the Arthur Treacher’s brand, announced plans to operate Arthur Treacher’s as a ghost kitchen concept nationwide. This allowed existing restaurant operators to add Arthur Treacher’s menu items for delivery without the overhead of a standalone location.
The current brick-and-mortar expansion in Northeast Ohio, spearheaded by Simon, represents a different strategy – a regional revitalization based on strong local demand. When asked about the possibility of a larger nationwide play, Simon has remained cautiously optimistic but focused on the present. The success of these initial new locations in Ohio will likely be a key factor in determining if a more ambitious national expansion is feasible.
A full-scale nationwide revival in the traditional fast-food model would face significant hurdles. The competitive landscape, and consumer tastes have evolved since Arthur Treacher’s heydays. Any future national strategy would need to carefully balance nostalgia with modern demands for convenience, value, and menu diversity.
The return of Arthur Treacher’s to Cleveland Heights is more than just a new restaurant opening; it’s a nostalgic homecoming for a brand that once flourished nationwide. While the chain faced decline due to changing tastes and economic factors, its fanbase in Northeast Ohio has kept the memory alive.
The Cleveland Heights Arthur Treacher’s is open daily, except Sundays, from 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., ready to serve up the classic fish and chips that have been a comfort food favorite for decades.
