Good Plates Eatery, the Clifton sandwich and bowl spot known for turning the holidays into a lifeline for neighbors in need, has closed its doors. The owners announced the shutdown on the restaurant's social pages, described themselves as "devastated," and longtime customers and nearby residents responded by praising the spot's charity work while voicing surprise at how suddenly it all ended.
Owners Announced The Closure On Social Media
As reported by WKRC, the owners wrote, "We are devastated to announce that we have closed our doors." Their post thanked patrons for six years of support but did not explain why the restaurant was shutting down or offer any timeline for what might come next.
Known For No-Questions Holiday Meals
The eatery built a reputation on no-questions-asked Thanksgiving and Christmas meals, along with annual toy and coat drives that turned the place into a seasonal giving hub. In 2025, it served about 2,500 Christmas Eve meals, and local outlets have repeatedly highlighted the Schlansers' community work. WLWT also noted the restaurant's philanthropic role in its coverage of the closure.
Roots In Clifton And A Banks Presence
Andrew and Jamie Schlanser opened Good Plates in 2020 and ran the counter-service spot for six years, building a following among University of Cincinnati students and Clifton residents, according to CityBeat. The business also lists a presence at The Park at The Banks on its contact page, according to the restaurant's site. The owners' social post did not say whether those off-site operations are affected.
What Comes Next For The Giving Projects
Coverage from WLWT notes that the owners' message offered thanks but no reason for the closure and did not outline any next steps. That leaves open questions about the future of the restaurant's annual giving programs and what the shutdown means for any off-site operations tied to the Good Plates name.
