OHIO STATE - It is a bit of a "burger blues" moment for Northeast Ohio. As the state prepares for spring, a major player in the gourmet burger scene is scaling back its footprint. Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews is reportedly preparing to shut down two of its most prominent suburban locations in early 2026.
As the brand navigates a shifting economic climate and a broader restructuring effort, the communities of Boardman and Strongsville are bracing for the loss of these long-standing dining staples.
A Hit to Suburban Dining Hubs
For many Ohioans, these aren't just restaurants; they are landmarks in high-traffic shopping districts. The closures are expected to leave a noticeable gap in two of the region's busiest retail corridors.
The Boardman Location (Route 224) Situated on the bustling Boardman-Canfield Road, this spot has been a primary destination for Mahoning Valley families and weekend shoppers for years. Its proximity to the Southern Park Mall made it a go-to for post-shopping meals and birthday celebrations.
The Strongsville Location (The Greens of Strongsville). Located in one of the area’s premier open-air shopping plazas, the Strongsville restaurant served as a key anchor for the local community. Its departure marks a significant shift for "The Greens," which has long relied on the burger chain to draw in consistent foot traffic.
The Strategy Behind the Shutdown
The move comes as part of a larger "North Star" turnaround plan. Over the last few years, the company has been working to revitalize its image by upgrading kitchen equipment—returning to flat-top grills for a more authentic sear—and streamlining the menu.
However, part of that "North Star" involves making difficult real estate decisions. The company has been candid about its intention to prune underperforming or "low-tier" sites to focus resources on more profitable locations. Between rising labor costs and a general shift in consumer habits toward faster, "grab-and-go" dining options, these full-service suburban hubs have faced increasing pressure.
What This Means for Local Fans
While these two specific doors are set to close this spring, the brand still maintains a presence in other parts of the state, including the Columbus and Cincinnati metros.
For those in the Boardman and Strongsville areas, the next few weeks represent a "last call" for those signature gourmet burgers and bottomless sides. Local employees at these sites are facing an uncertain spring, and while it remains to be seen if transfers to nearby locations—like those in Niles or Independence—will be an option, the loss of these restaurants is a sobering reminder of the volatility currently hitting the casual dining industry.
