New owners of Lanning’s plan to keep legacy alive

by Jacqueline Mitchell 

Lanning’s Restaurant, a family-owned fine-dining fixture in Bath Township for the past 50 years, is changing hands. 

In early December, longtime owners Chris Cecil Darnell and Jeff Darnell announced their retirement and the sale of the restaurant, located at 826 N. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., to Hinckley residents Bethany and Dean Martin. 

“Our philosophy is it’s not broke, so there’s nothing for us to fix,” said Bethany. “The staff is staying, the name is staying, and we’re just going to come in and manage it similar to what it was before.” 

The restaurant, known for steak, seafood, wine and classic cocktails served in a romantic setting, was purchased by Jess and Sue Cecil (Chris’ parents) in 1972 from Frank Lanning Barnett, who opened the establishment in 1970. 

The Martins approached the Darnells last spring while the restaurant was closed due to COVID-19 restrictions.  

“We’ve been trying to get into the restaurant business for a little while,” said Bethany. She and Dean owned heavy-duty semi-truck dealerships. 

“Actually, before COVID, we had an opportunity to purchase a restaurant and when COVID hit, we kind of put it on the back burner,” Bethany said. “Our business broker approached Chris and Jeff Darnell. They were considering retirement. They got the phone call, we met, and we just decided that we were the right fit for each other. They were comfortable with us carrying on their legacy, and we were excited to be buying the opportunity off of them.” 

The Darnells had managed the restaurant for 35 years. 

“We are looking forward to retirement,” said Chris. “We felt it was the right time and are confident we are leaving our family’s legacy in good hands with Bethany and Dean Martin. We wish them the best of luck.”  

The sale was completed on Dec. 11, and restaurant operations have continued without interruption.  

Bethany said that like all restaurants, Lanning’s is facing challenges due to the pandemic, but the support of the community has been unwavering. 

“We’re in a good spot, because the community supports Lanning’s,” she said. “We’re coming to the holidays, where people like to go out to a fine dining restaurant and celebrate with their friends and families. Sadly, there are a lot of restaurants that have closed and aren’t making it, so it’s given us increased business because of that.” 

She said she and Dean look forward to a future where Lanning’s is bustling at full capacity once more. 

“Our hopes for the future of Lanning’s are to get past COVID and get past these curfews and these challenges that we’re facing and get back to the point that our restaurant is filled every night,” she said. 

The Martins will honor all outstanding Lanning’s gift certificates. For updates, visit lannings-restaurant.com, or call 330-666-1159 or 330-864-2553.

Feature image photo caption: Dean and Bethany Martin have transitioned into their roles as the new owners of Lanning’s Restaurant. Photo by S. Ocker