LANCASTER, Ohio — A Lancaster staple is reopening its doors with a refreshed style while holding on to its classic retro roots. The Pink Cricket will officially reopen Friday, September 26, at 3 p.m., following a week of renovations.
Guests returning to the East Main Street restaurant will notice new pink awnings, a freshly painted deck, a redesigned bar, updated furniture, and brighter colors throughout the space. While the facelift brings modern touches, the restaurant’s signature vintage atmosphere remains at the heart of the dining experience.
“Our goal was to honor Pink Cricket’s history while giving it a fresh feel,” said Larry Tipton, owner of Larry Tipton Restaurants. “We are thrilled to invite our customers back in to see the changes and continue making memories here.”
The Pink Cricket first opened in 1938, originally founded by Deward Shaffer, and moved to its current location at 929 E. Main St. in 1965. Over the decades, the restaurant has passed through several ownerships while maintaining its reputation as a beloved neighborhood gathering spot.
In 2023, Larry Tipton Pizza Co., based in Lancaster, announced it had acquired the Pink Cricket. The company also owns 11 Pizza Cottage restaurants across central Ohio.
“We have tremendous respect for the Pink Cricket’s legacy, owners, customers and employees,” said Larry Tipton, owner. “We want to ensure beloved local restaurants continue to succeed in our community. The recipes, ingredients and neighborhood character will remain. Our plan is to have Pink Cricket and Pizza Cottage co-exist as they have for generations. We know people have their favorite brands, especially when it comes to pizza, so we are excited that both will continue to be options for our customers for the next generation of pizza lovers!”
Former co-owner Paul Hoch said finding the right buyer was critical. “It was important for us to find owners who understand the charm, character and history of the Pink Cricket,” Hoch said. “We know Larry Tipton Pizza Co. shares that same vision, and we’re fortunate to leave the restaurant in such capable hands. We still believe there’s a place for the neighborhood haunt, and Larry Tipton Pizza Co. will preserve and enhance what we’ve built.”
For updates and reopening details, visit pinkcricketlancaster.com or follow Pink Cricket on Facebook
