Craving classic American comfort food? Max & Erma’s might be just the place. This guide dives deep into their menu offerings, history, and current status, providing everything you need to know about this once-thriving restaurant chain.
Max & Erma’s menu is a celebration of American comfort food with unique twists. From appetizers to entrees and decadent desserts, there’s likely something for everyone.
Appetizers to Start Your Meal
Begin your dining experience with a selection of tempting appetizers. Choose from crispy potato skins loaded with toppings, flavorful chicken wings, and cheesy nachos. For a lighter option, fresh salads are also available.
Award-Winning Burgers
Max & Erma’s is perhaps best known for its award-winning burgers. These handcrafted creations feature juicy patties nestled in artisanal buns and topped with a variety of mouthwatering ingredients. Whether you prefer a classic cheeseburger or a more adventurous combination, you’ll probably find a burger to satisfy your cravings.
Savory Sandwiches and More
Not in the mood for a burger? Explore their selection of delicious sandwiches, such as the grilled chicken club, stacked high with fresh ingredients. Pasta lovers can indulge in dishes like the Cajun Alfredo Pasta, a fusion of creamy Italian flavors with a spicy Cajun kick. Heartier entrees include the Laredo Steak, a USDA Choice sirloin coated in signature cactus butter, and seasonal seafood dishes featuring fresh catches.
Sweet Endings
Complete your meal with a decadent dessert. Indulge in a warm chocolate chip cookie sundae or a classic New York-style cheesecake.
The Story of Max & Erma’s: A Rise and Fall
Max & Erma’s has a rich history, starting in 1972 in German Village, Columbus, Ohio. Founded by Todd Barnum and Barry Zacks, who purchased a tavern previously owned by Max and Erma Visocnik, the restaurant quickly became a local favorite. The founders retained the name and developed a quirky, theme-restaurant style, including the iconic bathtub sundae bar. Max & Erma’s expanded significantly, reaching a peak of over 110 locations nationwide by the mid-2000s.
However, the restaurant industry is notoriously challenging. While the specific reasons for its initial decline aren’t fully clear, Max & Erma’s began facing financial difficulties, leading to closures before 2016. The acquisition by Glacier Restaurant Group in 2016 resulted in the closure of 19 underperforming locations. The original German Village location, a significant landmark for the brand, closed its doors in 2017.
As of April 2024, only seven franchised Max & Erma’s locations remain, primarily in Indiana and Michigan, with one operating in the Dayton, Ohio airport. The future of these remaining locations and the brand itself remains uncertain. This story reflects the challenges many restaurant chains face in adapting to evolving consumer preferences and a competitive market.
Finding a Max & Erma’s Near You
While the chain has significantly contracted, dedicated fans can still find a Max & Erma’s to enjoy their favorite comfort food. Online searches and restaurant locator tools can help pinpoint the nearest remaining locations.
Craving Other Culinary Adventures?
If you’re looking for other dining options, check out the Monjunis menu for Italian cuisine or enjoy a classic Coney Island experience at Leo’s Coney Island Menu.
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