In a recent announcement that has left many surprised patrons, Esco Restaurant and Tapas, co-founded by the renowned rapper 2 Chainz, is set to close its downtown Columbus lounge by the end of the year. The restaurant, located at 31 E. Gay St., will transition to a takeout-only model starting this week, as the team prepares for a new chapter. While the closure marks the end of an era for this vibrant eatery, the owners have reassured fans that they plan to reopen at a new, yet-to-be-determined location in central Ohio in the spring of 2025.
Esco, a brand that originated in Atlanta, was co-founded by Tauheed Epps, more popularly known as 2 Chainz, and entrepreneur Mychel “Snoop” Dillard. Since its inception, Esco has aimed to blend culinary excellence with a lively atmosphere, offering a diverse menu that features an array of seafood platters, Southern-inspired brunch options, and an impressive cocktail list. The Columbus franchise, which opened its doors in February 2023, marked the brand’s third location nationwide and was its first venture outside of Georgia. This milestone came after the previous tenant, an Irish-themed pub, closed its doors in March 2022.
Renowned for its innovative dishes, Esco’s menu tantalizes guests with offerings such as lobster tail, blackened salmon with shrimp, and a chicken and beef sausage gumbo. Breakfast options boast unique creations like peach cobbler French toast and red velvet waffles, making it a favorite spot for brunch enthusiasts. The restaurant also features a selection of hookah flavors and bottle service, catering to a diverse clientele looking for a vibrant night out.
In addition to its culinary offerings, Esco has made headlines for its unique cocktails, including “The Grammy,” a mix of bourbon, ginger beer, and lime juice—perfect for celebrating 2 Chainz’s own achievements in the music industry. The rapper, who gained prominence in the early 2010s, is celebrated for his distinctive style and lyrical prowess, with hits like “No Lie” and “I’m Different” solidifying his place in hip-hop. His venture into the culinary world with Esco demonstrates his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for creating memorable experiences beyond music.
The announcement of Esco’s closure has been met with mixed emotions from the local community, who have expressed their gratitude for the vibrant atmosphere and delicious food that the restaurant brought to Columbus. A farewell celebration, dubbed a “pop-out balloon event,” is scheduled for 10 p.m. on Friday, offering patrons one last opportunity to enjoy the ambiance of the lounge before it transitions to a takeout-only service. The social media post announcing the closure reflects the sentiment of appreciation, stating, “Thank you for rocking with us through this journey. Let’s end this chapter strong.”
As Esco Restaurant and Tapas prepares to relocate, the anticipation for its reopening in 2025 builds. Fans of 2 Chainz and culinary enthusiasts alike will be eager to see how the new location will evolve, continuing the legacy of delicious food and a lively atmosphere that Esco has become known for. The journey of Esco is far from over; it is simply a transition towards an exciting new beginning in the heart of central Ohio.
Sources: