Friendly Stop Bar and Grill

Specialties

We specialize in offering fresh, homemade comfort food, ice cold beer, wine and generous pours in a friendly and comfortable «Cheers-​like» atmosphere. Known for hearty portions, our eclectic pub boasts favorites like an award-​winning Garlic Burger, Fresh Jumbo Wings and Meatloaf «to die 4». Nestled in Historic Glendale, Friendly Stop’s regular crowd is diverse ranging from blue & white collar workers, families, singles and everyone in between.

History

Established in 1907.

Friendly Stop, when first built, was a home on the second floor, and a barbershop on the main floor. Eventually, it was changed into a bar. It’s not clear exactly when that happened, but I believe it was sometime in the 1920’s. Friendly Stop was a beverage-​only bar until Larry and Cindy Youse purchased it in 1980. In 1975, the Youses founded Grand Finale restaurant. They decided to purchase Friendly Stop in order to attain a liquor license, and to give their upscale diners a better view, because at the time, it was a bit of an eyesore. The Youses introduced a lunch menu which featured home-​style fare. The bar’s regular base and popularity grew for the next decade and a half, winning awards and accolades from critics. In August of 2005, they sold the business to a long term, key employee, Adam Gilreath. Adam has been at the helm ever since, and has not faltered from the concept that has made Friendly Stop a destination and landmark.

Meet the Business Owner

Adam G.

Business Owner

Adam grew up in the village of Greenhills, Ohio. He attended and graduated (with honors) from Greenhills High. He was active in sports, as he played on the Greenhills soccer squad all four years. His first job, at 16 years old, happened to be at Grand Finale restaurant (located in historic Glendale) where he learned the value of a dollar along with an appreciation for fine food. Larry Youse, owner of Grand Finale, was Adam’s mentor, and nurtured his already well-​instilled work ethic. After graduating from Ohio State with a BSBA in 1990, wherever Adam sought employment, he always gravitated back to the restaurant industry. In December of 1994, he was hired by GM and long time friend, Gary R., to cook and tend bar at Friendly Stop. Over the next almost 11 years, he played a part in making the Stop what it is today. In February 2005, he began negotiations with the Youses to purchase Friendly Stop. August 1, 2005, Adam took over and has continued the Stop’s concept and traditions.