New Chophouse 614 owners converting bar space into upscale, members-only social club

Last month, the eatery formerly known as Urban Chophouse was sold to a new ownership group and rebranded as Chophouse 614, and the new owners of the popular Short North concept are wasting little time in rebuilding the eatery into a sleek, more upscale space.

One of the most significant changes the restaurant will see is the transformation of its former bar space, the Whiskey Lounge, into an upscale social club known as Privé Members Lounge.

“We want to keep things high energy and exciting, but we want to bring it up a notch. That’s how we see Privé,” said new Owner Operator Shawn Shanazi. 

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Shanazi alongside Columbus partner Justin McMaster will remodel the 2,000 square foot space, which is expected to open in June.

“Over the last four of five years, concepts like this, the private clubs that were popular in the 80s and 90s, have made a huge comeback in New York, LA, Miami,” he said. “We want to bring that to Ohio.”

He noted it will be a members-only location similar to other Columbus concepts like No Soliciting, but Shanazi also stressed major differences between the two. Instead of a password-style entry system, Privé will feature a concierge manager who will meet guests at the door.

“We want to make sure our members are acknowledged as much as possible,” Shanazi said.

The addition of Privé is one of several major undertakings the eatery’s new ownership is taking on to convert Chophouse 614 into a fine-dining experience.

This includes a menu overhaul that will replace items like burgers and flatbreads, a more refined aesthetic (removing dining room high-tops in favor of more formal tables and seating), and the addition of a fountain-side outdoor lounge.

Want to read more? Check out our print publication, (614) Magazine. Learn where you can find a free copy of our new March issue here!

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