In early 2019 it was announced that Malabar Farm Inn, the restaurant situated down the road from Louis Bromfield’s Malabar Farm, would be closed for the remainder of 2019 for renovations. It appears that there was more to the story as the State of Ohio is now seeking a new operator to run and manage the restaurant.
Through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, State Parks and Watercraft Division, bids are now being accepted for an operator contract. Those interested in bidding must submit their application packet by Friday, February 21. Full details regarding the packet are available here. The restaurant includes two dining rooms and outdoor seating.
The Malabar Farm Inn is a historic Stagecoach Inn built in 1820. The two-story brick building was restored as a restaurant, which is popular with both locals and visitors. In its most recent incarnation, it primarily utilized local, seasonal ingredients to provide upscale French, European and American cuisine. Just to the east of the restaurant lies Malabar Spring, a spring-fed roadside produce stand designed by Louis Bromfield to utilize the spring water to keep produce cool and fresh.
Hopefully the restaurant, and possibly even the produce stand, will be back in operation soon.
Sources: ODNR, Wikipedia