City shuts down North Side bar after shootings, alleged illegal liquor sales

A north Columbus bar has been shut down and boarded up after city officials cited a history of violence, multiple shootings and alleged illegal liquor sales at the establishment.

On June 16, Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein announced his office secured an emergency court order to close Kulture Lounge, located at 1005 Mediterranean Ave. Columbus police executed the order Tuesday.

According to the City Attorney’s Office, police responded to the property 10 times since October 2025 for incidents including fights, assaults and multiple reports of shots fired.

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In March of last year, police responded to reports of a drive-by shooting. Officers allegedly encountered multiple fights at the scene and were told by security that two groups had exchanged gunfire.

The city also alleges the business had been operating without a valid liquor permit while continuing to sell alcohol and advertise drink specials online. Investigators said undercover agents were able to purchase alcohol at the establishment earlier this year.

“Vibrant nightlife cannot come at the expense of public safety,” said the city’s Property Action Team attorney Sophie Yano. “Disregarding basic liquor laws while turning a blind eye toward crime and violence at your establishment is unacceptable. I’m thankful to the community and our partners in law enforcement for being able to gather the evidence needed to get this place shut down.”

A preliminary hearing regarding the order is scheduled for June 25.

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