By 1812Blockhouse

A new chapter is set to begin for the Malabar Farm Restaurant as the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has officially opened the submission process for a new concessionaire. Interested parties can submit proposals for Bid #1-25 to operate a restaurant at Malabar Farm State Park, with the deadline set for February 20 at 2:00 PM.

This opportunity presents a unique chance to run a restaurant with deep historical roots, located at 3645 Pleasant Valley Road in Lucas. The site, originally built in 1820 as a farmhouse, transitioned into a full-service restaurant in 1963, gaining a reputation for French-inspired cuisine and a strong emphasis on farm-to-table dining using locally sourced meats and produce.

Details of the Bid Process

ODNR has made all proposal documents available online, which include detailed requirements, lease agreements, inventory lists, and financial expectations for potential concessionaires. The documents can be accessed through the ODNR State Park Concessions page:
🔗 Access Proposal Documents Here

The submission window is open now through March 6. However, proposals must be received by the February deadline for consideration.

Key Bid Documents Include:

📄 Sample Lease Agreement
📌 Property Map & Inventory Lists
📑 Financial Statements (Individual & Corporate)
📋 Operational Supplies & Equipment Details
📊 Historic Revenue Data
📝 Bid Proposal Form & Experience Questionnaire

Prospective operators will be required to provide a concession plan of operation, outlining their vision for the restaurant, along with financial statements and a non-collusion affidavit. A bid bond is also necessary as part of the application process.

A Historic Culinary Destination

The Malabar Farm Restaurant holds a significant place in Ohio’s culinary and agricultural heritage. Established as part of Malabar Farm State Park, the property was once home to Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield, a pioneer in sustainable agriculture. The restaurant became a sought-after dining destination, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a menu that honored the farm’s traditions.

For decades, the restaurant has been a centerpiece of the park experience, offering visitors a taste of history alongside breathtaking views of the Pleasant Valley countryside. Its previous focus on farm-to-table dining aligns with Bromfield’s original vision of environmental conservation and sustainable farming.

Next Steps for Interested Parties

Anyone interested in submitting a bid is encouraged to thoroughly review the proposal documents and attend any informational sessions that may be scheduled by ODNR. This is an exciting opportunity for restaurateurs, farm-to-table enthusiasts, and business operators looking to establish a presence in one of Ohio’s most treasured state parks.

For further details, visit the official ODNR State Park Concessions website or contact ODNR directly for specific bid-related inquiries.


Key Takeaways

Bidding is now open for the Malabar Farm Restaurant concession
📅 Proposal deadline: February 20 at 2:00 PM
📍 Located at Malabar Farm State Park, Lucas
📄 All bid documents available online via ODNR
🏡 Historic 1820 farmhouse turned restaurant, emphasizing farm-to-table dining
🌱 Opportunity to carry on the legacy of sustainable agriculture and culinary excellence

This bid process marks a new era for the Malabar Farm Restaurant, and ODNR looks forward to seeing innovative proposals that honor the site’s rich history and commitment to sustainability.

Image: ODNR

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