The Pit's Closing is... the Pits

A 1969 Journal Ad

Thanks to a comment left on this blog by an anonymous reader a few days ago, I got to enjoy one last meal from The Pit on Saturday night. I had no idea that the beloved, iconic Vermilion restaurant was closing for good at the end of the day on Sunday. 

With all of the Pit's loyal customers stopping in for a final meal and heartfelt goodbye, it wasn't easy getting in my order. I had the honor of picking up the next-to-last takeout order on the next-to-last day of business, late Saturday night, several hours after the restaurant had closed. It was a pulled pork sandwich worth waiting for.

As I live just a few minutes walk from the Pit, it has been a favorite ritual of mine to take friends there for a memorable meal. The Texas Bradys ate there, and were able to compare the Pit's fare to what they were used to back home. And just about all of my Ohio State buddies enjoyed a ceremonial dinner there as well over the last few years.

I'm happy that the Pit's owners are looking forward to retirement and enjoying life. I've heard that the wheels are in motion for a new culinary endeavor at that location; I hope it happens. But for now, the Pit and its gracious hosts (and fine barbecue) will be greatly missed.

The dining rooms were deserted when I picked up my takeout late Saturday night

A view of the original counter area before the restaurant was enlarged

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In addition to being my favorite restaurant, the Pit has been a favorite topic on this blog. Click here to visit all the past posts, including a four-part history of it that included an interview with the son of one of the original owners.