PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF ERIKA CLARK
Braxton Brewing takes over Hi-Wire Brewing’s Factory 52 taproom, Northstar Café opens its second location in the tri-state, Covington gets kudos from Food & Wine magazine, and more.
Braxton Brewing Takes Over Hi-Wire Brewing Space in Norwood
Braxton Brewing Co. acquired Hi-Wire Brewing’s taproom at Factory 52 in Norwood last week. The acquisition is the result of Hi-Wire’s flagship taproom and distribution warehouse in Asheville, North Carolina, being damaged during Hurricane Helene last September. The taproom closed for minor renovations and will reopen as Braxton Factory 52 while the green space and full-service bar out front will go by The Porch by Braxton Brewing Co. The spaces are scheduled to reopen some time this month.
Northstar Café Opens Second Tri-State Location
Columbus-based Northstar Restaurant Group opened its second location in the Queen City earlier this week at Kenwood Towne Centre. The restaurant, whose menu is a haven for those who want organic and locally sourced ingredients, is located in the former Brooks Brothers space. This makes the seventh Northstar location in Ohio.
Covington Named to Food & Wine List
Northern Kentucky is getting some national attention from Food & Wine this month. Covington was named no. 4 on the magazine’s list of top small cities for food and drink as part of its 2025 Global Tastemakers awards. “Just across the river from Cincinnati, Covington is where smooth bourbon meets savory goetta, and North meets South,” the publication wrote, specifically mentioning Anchor Grill, Otto’s, Bouquet, and Carmelo’s. “This walkable river town blends Appalachian, German, and Southern influences into a culinary identity all its own.”
Ollie’s Trolley Owner Honored
Last week, Marvin Smith, owner of Ollie’s Trolley in the West End, was honored with a street named after him by city officials. West Liberty Street at the corner of Central Avenue—the location of Smith’s takeout joint, which has been in business for 33 years—is now “Marvin Smith Way.” Ollie’s is one of only three remaining locations of what was once a thriving chain set in motion by fast-food restaurant entrepreneur John Y. Brown, the Svengali behind the national explosion of Kentucky Fried Chicken.
Sen by Kiki Opens New Spaces in OTR
Last week, Sen by Kiki opened in a new space in Over-the-Rhine: the old Heist Fish & Poultry across from Findlay Market at 106 West Elder Street. “We are excited to have the honor of being the new owners of the former Heist fish market space,” Hideki Harada, founding owner of Sen by Kiki, said in an Instagram post. “With the new space and the size of the shop we can provide a larger selection and also provide seafood options for everyone in the community. So come one and come all to our new location!” Sen by Kiki closed its stall at Findlay Market back in February to prepare for the transition.
Wawa to Open Second Location
Wawa Mania continues this month with the opening of the Pennsylvania-based convenience store chain’s second location in the tri-state. The new store is set to open at 3501 Tylersville Road in Fairfield on Thursday, June 26. “We are grateful to the Buckeye State for embracing us,” said Wawa President Brian Schaller in a press release. “With each new store, we bring our unique combination of fresh food and beverage, convenience and service to local communities.” Known for its fresh food offerings, specialty beverages, and hoagies, the chain plans to open eight to 10 other locations in the state by the end of the year.
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