Max & Erma’s, the casual dining chain known for its burgers and fresh cookies, is staging a comeback. After filing for bankruptcy and being taken over by a new owner last year, it’s now planning to expand starting here in the St. Louis region.
It will open its first new restaurant since the reorganization in Fairview Heights.
The franchised restaurant is scheduled to open its doors late next month in the space formerly occupied by Hanley’s Grille & Tap (and before that a J. Buck’s) near St. Clair Square. Another location is slated to open in late October in Des Peres, also in the former Hanley’s Grille and J. Bucks, at West County Mall.
In total, the Columbus-based company will open three new franchised restaurants this year, including the two in this region.
“Once Max & Erma’s restructured, it became a good time to open up some new restaurants,” said Ed Goergen, the local franchisee. His business partner is Steve Welkener. “We really like where the concept is moving forward.”