Freddy Skaff opened the Charcoal House in 1962.
“It’s an attractive restaurant and cocktail bar with an open hearth in the dining room for steaks and chops. Howard Hill is at the piano, which assures you of good music. Arnold (Rich) Richardson and Steve Stebens are the mixologists at night and Henry Wilkowek days. Stanley Scott is the chef. The spot will hold opening parties Monday and Tuesday evenings … C. R. Bundt was celebrating a birthday in the Charcoal House Wednesday night and the Al Weinsteins an anniversary.” – Toledo Blade – June 29, 1962
Bruce and Tracy Saba took over operation of the Charcoal House in 1982. They operated the Charcoal House for twenty years. Bruce Saba was the owner of Centre Supermarkets, a local chain of grocery stores. Tracy is the daughter of the legendary Toledo restaurateur Frank Unkle. The Saba’s story certainly didn’t end with the closing of the Charcoal House.
