Scratch Steakhouse and Lounge will close its Louisville location at the end of April, with the owner citing significant structural issues tied to a neighboring building.
Owner Demond Germany told Jordan Miller News the decision comes after ongoing problems caused by poor conditions at an adjacent property, which was purchased last fall.
Germany said an appraiser determined the neighboring building has holes in its roof, allowing water to leak into the steakhouse’s structure. That damage has led to issues inside the restaurant, including ceiling leaks and cracking tiles.
“With everything going on next door, it’s just not something we can wait on,” Germany said.
The restaurant, which opened in September 2019, has operated in Louisville for nearly seven years. Germany said the closure is not a reflection of the business itself, but rather the building conditions beyond his control.
“There’s a lot of emotion tied to this place,” Germany said. “We’ve built relationships with so many people here — longtime guests, city officials — and that’s what makes this so tough.”
Despite the closure, Germany said no employees will lose their jobs. All staff members will be relocated to his Atwood-area restaurants, ensuring continued employment without pay cuts.
“Our focus is taking care of our people,” he said. “That’s the most important thing right now.”
Germany said he is actively searching for a new location within Stark County and hopes to secure a space by the end of the summer.
In addition to Scratch, Germany also operates Atwood Lighthouse Bistro and Sail N’ Power Grill, both located in the Atwood Lake area. He said both restaurants have performed well, though business can be weather-dependent due to their lakeside setting.
Catering services through Scratch will continue uninterrupted, with events being handled through other locations after the Louisville closure. Gift cards will also remain valid and can be used at affiliated restaurants.
The Louisville restaurant has already adjusted its schedule, closing on Mondays as contractors begin assessing and planning repairs.
While the closure marks the end of a chapter, Germany said he remains optimistic about what comes next.
“This isn’t goodbye,” he said. “We’ll be back.”
