Warsaw’s beloved Oku Roji is closing its doors temporarily as of November 16th, marking an exciting new chapter for the downtown dining and social scene. This cozy, basement-level restaurant has quickly become a local favorite for its Japanese-inspired dishes and hip but intimate vibe. However, fans of Oku Roji can rest assured that the closure is part of a broader plan by owner David Gustafson to create an even more dynamic downtown experience.
The River Coffeehouse, a cherished spot currently located across the street, will move into Oku Roji’s space shortly after, as well as the ground floor area that was once home to Paradiso. This expansion will allow The River to offer more seating, making it a versatile gathering space for locals to enjoy specialty coffee, delectable eats and community events. The move reflects The River’s growing popularity and the evolving needs of Warsaw’s downtown community.
David Gustafson, the visionary behind both Oku Roji and Anthology Whiskey Room, has hinted at other exciting projects he has in the works to enrich the downtown area. While Oku Roji enthusiasts may miss their favorite dishes and Japanese cocktails for a time, the shift supports a larger goal of enhancing the local scene with vibrant, community-centered spaces.
Stay tuned (or check out Oku Roji’s Facebook page) to hear more about Gustafson’s plans for Oku Roji and additional developments coming soon. Warsaw’s downtown area is evolving, and the coming changes promise to bring new opportunities for gathering, dining, and enjoying the heart of the city.
Tags: indiana, kosciusko, oku roji, restaurant, the river coffeehouse, warsaw