Chart Room maps out future in Vermilion

Editor's note: Joseph Jones is a Register correspondent representing vermiliondaily.com. VERMILION — The Chart Room, a newly renovated restaurant and bar at 5024 Liberty Ave. (U.S. 6) in Vermilion, has quickly become a popular local dining spot along the Lake Erie waterfront. The business opened in June after an extensive remodel of the former Huggy's location. General manager Danielle Heffernan said the ownership team purchased the building in September 2024 and began major construction in February, redesigning the bar area, opening the dining room, updating plumbing and refreshing the interior for a more modern restaurant experience. The Chart Room is owned by Ted Klonakis, a hospitality veteran from Kelleys Island who also owns Captain's Corner and manages the West Bay casino operations. Heffernan worked for him during college and said his experience helped guide the restaurant's concept and menu direction. The menu is intentionally focused to fit the small kitchen, offering flatbreads, handhelds — like burgers and sandwiches — salads, soups and rotating weekly specials. Popular items include the flatbread options and the Tuesday pasta special, paired with discounted wine. The restaurant employs about 20 workers with a mix of full-time and part-time staff supporting both lunch and dinner service. A standout feature for customers is the nautical theme. Every table includes a detailed map or navigation chart, including Lake Erie shipwreck routes and coastal charts, giving visitors something to explore while they eat. The walls feature additional local artwork, including a Vermilion map and lighthouse imagery. The Chart Room is open seven days a week. The kitchen serves from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the bar stays open until midnight. Since reopening, the restaurant has drawn strong support from Vermilion residents, visitors and boaters looking for new places to eat along the waterfront.