CIRCLEVILLE, OH — Big news for local food lovers — Charleys Philly Steaks is officially coming to Circleville, with renovations already underway at the former Sonic Drive-In, located at 1415 S. Court Street. The site, which closed earlier this year, is currently being remodeled, with plans to open the new restaurant in 2026.
Founded in 1986 near The Ohio State University by Charley Shin, Charleys Philly Steaks has grown into a global fast-casual brand with nearly 700 locations across 47 states and 16 countries. The Columbus-based company is known for its freshly grilled cheesesteaks, loaded gourmet fries, and real fruit lemonades.
Shin, who started the business while studying at OSU, built the concept on one simple idea: serve the best Philly cheesesteak. His first shop—opened with his mother’s $48,000 investment—sparked what would become a multimillion-dollar brand now managed under GOSH Enterprises, Inc., which also owns BIBIBOP Asian Grill and Lennys Grill & Subs.
Candra Alisiswanto, Charleys’ president and chief operations officer, has been with the company since 2000 and continues to lead its expansion efforts nationwide. Brian Hipsher, chief marketing officer, has overseen major brand updates and menu growth since joining in 2019.
Charleys Philly Steaks offers a wide variety of menu items, including the classic Steak Philly, Chicken Teriyaki Cheesesteak, Buffalo Chicken, Pepperoni Cheesesteak, and Veggie Delight options. Guests can also enjoy gourmet fries loaded with cheese sauce, bacon, and jalapeños, or real fruit lemonades made with fresh fruit and natural ingredients.
The new Circleville restaurant will bring another recognizable national brand to the city’s south end corridor, joining a growing lineup of dining options near Adena Health and other recent developments.
For more information about the company, visit www.charleys.com.
