Nestled in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, the Lyric Piano Building at 632 Race Street is a cornerstone of the city’s rich cultural and architectural history. Built in 1919, the building originally housed the Lyric Piano Co., a subsidiary of the world-renowned Ralph Wurlitzer Co., famous for its pianos and organs. The Lyric Piano Co. operated here during a golden era for music and craftsmanship, offering finely made pianos from 1909 to 1937.
The building’s story reflects the challenges of the times, as the Great Depression led to the closure of the Lyric Piano Co. in 1937. However, the structure continued to play a vital role in Cincinnati’s commercial scene, adapting to the evolving landscape. In the 1950s, it became home to a dressmaker, further embedding itself into the city’s thriving business district.
From the 1970s through the 1990s, the Lyric Piano Building entered yet another chapter, serving as a hub for various restaurants. The most recent restaurant tenant, Hardee’s, operated here, marking the building's participation in Cincinnati’s urban revitalization during this period.
Today, the Lyric Piano Building stands as a testament to Cincinnati’s enduring legacy of commerce, culture, and adaptive reuse. Its rich history as a piano showroom, fashion center, and dining destination continues to resonate, making it a unique and vibrant part of the city’s heritage.