Tom Tieche and Jack Clampitt came together in 1964 to form a restaurant in Wooster where you could sit down and have a cold beer and incredible steak. Then in 1979, Tom’s oldest son; Greg, took over the restaurant as the sole owner. Since, then Greg has been making many changes to keep up with the ever-revolving lifestyles, desires and demands of TJ’s loyal and enthusiastic customer base.

Having met Wooster’s needs for a fine dining restaurant, Greg Tieche set out to create a restaurant in the lower level of TJ’s that would appeal to a more casual crowd who just wanted to eat, drink, and have a good time. CW Burgersteins Great Sandwich Works was created in 1984. It became very popular quickly for its unique casual atmosphere and diversified menu. During the 1980’s, CW’s was a performance platform for many up and coming comedians such as Steve Harvey and Drew Carey. Today, CW’s is the place in Wooster to find talented local musicians on Thursdays at open mic night and the menu is known for its great burgers, such as the Honey-Hickory Bacon Burger, and Wooster’s best wings!

Greg added a patio to the building in 1998. In 2002, that patio became the outdoor seating for Melvin’s Brick Oven, a third restaurant joining TJ’s and CW’s under the same roof. Melvin’s features a wood-fired brick oven, which is located within view of the marble topped bar and indoor seating area.

The oven prepares pizzas, pastas, steaks and seafood; all cooked to perfection. In addition to the unique menu and family oriented atmosphere, it also gives customers a third choice sot hey can choose their desired experience. Due to increased demand for outdoor seating, the patio was expanded in 2002 and remains a top Wooster hotspot for warm weather fun, including bands every Tuesday night from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

TJ’s was remodeled again in 2006 to provide a cozier atmosphere to those seeking slightly more formal fine dining and banquet facilities while steeped in the rich tradition that comes with being the oldest independently owned restaurant in Wooster, TJ’s also remains on the cutting edge of culinary trends. Led by chef Glenn Meier, the kitchen staff is constantly introducing new menu items as well as putting new twists on old favorites.

So, whatever your dinner needs, where it’s a special place for a family celebration, a nice place to take business associates for lunch or dinner, a romantic place for an evening out, or a fun place to catch a great burger late after the game, TJ’s Trio of restaurants is still your place, just has it has been for 44 years!

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