Oak Hills Park restaurant transitions to full-service dining with new menu changes

The City of Norwalk's Oak Hills Park Authority held a meeting on December 19, 2024, focusing on various operational updates and future plans for the park and its facilities. Key discussions included the transition of the restaurant at Oak Hills from a golf-centric venue to a standalone dining destination, which is expected to enhance its appeal and attract more visitors during the off-season.

The restaurant, now open Wednesday through Sunday, has updated its menu to include a wider variety of dishes, moving away from traditional golf fare. This change aims to boost business during the winter months, with several holiday parties already booked. The Authority is also finalizing guidelines for golf outings to prevent issues experienced in the past, such as patrons bringing their own alcohol, which undermined restaurant sales.

In addition to restaurant updates, the meeting addressed the tennis program, which is currently in its off-season. Efforts are underway to secure donations for tree planting along the tennis courts, following the loss of several large trees. New fencing for the courts has been delivered, although installation has yet to begin.

The golf course operations were also discussed, with reports indicating a successful season despite recent cold weather leading to a slowdown in play. The course renovations have been well-received, and staff training on new software systems is ongoing to improve operational efficiency.

Financial reports revealed that while expenses have slightly exceeded budget projections, revenue from rounds played is above expectations. The Authority is optimistic about maintaining financial stability moving into the new year.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the Authority's commitment to enhancing the Oak Hills Park experience through improved facilities, strategic planning, and community engagement. Future meetings will continue to focus on long-term planning and operational improvements as the park prepares for the upcoming season.