Hot Grillz Diner Expansion Approved in Walton Hills

Popular breakfast and lunch spot plans 1,300-square-foot addition to serve dinner

The Walton Hills Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance request on Nov. 5 from the owners of Hot Grillz Diner, allowing the popular restaurant at Northfield Road to move forward with expansion plans.

The property owner appeared before the Walton Hills Planning Commission on Oct. 2, presenting plans for a 1,300-square-foot addition to the existing building on the south side and expanded parking areas. The Planning Commission approved the plan contingent upon alterations proposed in an analysis dated Sept. 24 and contingent upon obtaining variances from the zoning board.

Members of the board visited the site on Nov. 3 to inspect the property before the hearing.

The variance request addresses building setbacks and parking setbacks, as the existing building use and setbacks are non-conforming but legal as grandfathered conditions, according to the planning analysis.

Karen, the restaurant’s owner, told the board that Hot Grillz has been operating at the location for seven and a half years. The diner has been recognized as a top-rated breakfast restaurant in the Cleveland area and has survived the pandemic, she said.

The expansion would allow the restaurant to continue serving breakfast throughout the day Monday through Friday, which is currently limited due to the small kitchen. The addition would include a larger kitchen to accommodate both breakfast and lunch preparation simultaneously, as well as the ability to add dinner service.

The expansion plans also include an ice cream station, which would reduce seating in the main dining room by 12 seats while adding a waiting area. The new parking lot would be positioned approximately eight feet from the neighboring building.

John, who has owned a business on the street for 51 years and purchased the restaurant property, spoke in support of the expansion. He said he has invested significantly in the building over the past eight years, including new framework, ceiling, concrete flooring, plumbing, water lines, heating and air conditioning, and electrical systems.

He noted that Hot Grills has been the longest continuous operating restaurant at that location and praised the owner’s proven success in the business.

The owner said construction would begin as soon as possible after receiving approval, with four builders expressing interest in the project. The restaurant plans to remain open during construction, closing only for specific phases such as when the buildings are joined.

The restaurant will schedule food delivery trucks during its least busy times to avoid parking congestion. Plans also include improvements to drainage and landscaping around the property.