Who We Are

A central stop along U.S. Interstate 71, Ralph’s American Grill is a tribute to the trucking industry. We’re situated in the heart of Southwest Ohio, between the cities of Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati. Our family-friendly atmosphere serves up classic, Americana-inspired meals to all travelers in the region. The restaurant décor reflects the area’s rich history in transportation, notably the success of locally-founded R+L Carriers.

After starting the business in 1965, Larry Roberts Sr. was eager to expand his grassroots moving company. He purchased a single 1963 GMC 1-ton cab, a step up from his old 1951 Ford. That same GMC model now sits outside the restaurant, part of the R+L Carriers heritage. While Larry handled the driving, his wife, Mary Roberts, managed calls from their office. Ralph’s American Grill currently uses the same number R+L operated with at its inception: dial 937.382.0298 to contact the restaurant today.

The Motor Carrier Act of 1980, coupled with the hard work and entrepreneurial spirit of Larry Roberts, saw the expansion of R+L Carriers. Nearly a decade later, the company acquired Gator Freightways, a shipping stronghold from Florida. Three years after that, another southern-based carrier, Greenwood Motor Lines, joined the R+L Carriers business portfolio. Now, the company is exponentially larger, servicing all 50 U.S. states. With the addition of R+L Global Logistics, the R+L family of companies have become a worldwide supply chain provider.

Today, R+L Carriers has hundreds of service centers and nearly 20,000 employees across the country. What started in a small town in Southwest Ohio grew to be a worldwide, family-owned company. The region is still booming with logistics and transportation business, owing to the strong foundation of a mid-1900s trucking industry.

We hope your dining experience is one to remember, just like we remember the hard work of past and present drivers. Trucking is more than just an industry, it’s an American icon.

Click the images below to view larger.