Johnny Rockets closes at The Banks

The Banks lost another tenant this week, The Enquirer has learned.

The storefront at 191 E. Freedom Way used to house Johnny Rockets, an international restaurant chain featuring casual, American fare.

The space is now vacant, and all signage has been removed from the storefront facade. Recently, the restaurant operated under the name "Crosley's Cafe."

The development company which owns the retail space, NIC Riverbanks One Retail, said they are already looking for a tenant to replace Johnny Rockets.

"Our hope is that our tenants will be a part of The Banks for many years to come and they will add to the health and wellness of the district," the company said in an emailed statement to The Enquirer.

"However, we recognize that there is a delicate balance to create the right tenant mix for The Banks and that process does, unfortunately, result is some turnover just like in every retail environment."

While the reason for Johnny Rockets departure from the East Freedom Way location could not be confirmed, this location near the Cincinnati riverfront has previously had financial troubles.

Johnny Rockets missed payroll at least once, in Feb. 2014, according to a previous Enquirer report regarding Cincinnati's riverfront development efforts.

NIC Riverbanks One Retail said other tenants, including Tin Roof and the Holy Grail, report business is strong.

This was Greater Cincinnati's only Johnny Rockets location. Three other franchises remain in Ohio – two in Columbus and one at Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky.

No Johnny Rockets franchises exist in Kentucky.