Grandview area bar closes after less than a year

After less than a year in operation, a sports bar near Grandview Heights has closed. 

Draft Day, previously located at 1130 Dublin Rd., officially closed March 13 after opening last May, TJ Valentino, owner of the bar, told 614 NOW. The concept offered an extensive beer collection, elevated bar food, and a space for both dedicated sports fans and casual guests.

Valentino said there were multiple factors that led to the bar’s closure. While the operational and financial pressures that many small businesses face were a factor, he shared that the major challenge was working through delays and hurdles that “made it difficult to build consistent momentum.”

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

“The process of working through approvals, timelines, and external obstacles—particularly within the city—created setbacks that ultimately impacted our ability to grow and sustain long-term success,” Valentino said.

While the bar has closed, Valentino shared that this isn’t the end; he intends to remain in the hospitality space and build again. He’s already begun looking at new concepts, and seeks to come back stronger.

“Draft Day meant everything to me. It was more than just a bar—it was something I built from the ground up, a place where people could come together and create memories,” Valentino expressed. “While the outcome wasn’t what we ultimately envisioned, I’m incredibly proud of what we created and the support we received from the community.”

Want to read more? Check out our print publications, (614) Magazine and Stock & Barrel. Learn where you can find free copies of our newest issues here!

BROUGHT TO YOU BY