Take something old, and make it new. This doesn’t just apply to art and fashion; some of the best restaurants in Ohio are located in the most unusual places. We have restaurants in former schoolhouses and eateries in former churches. We even have hip new local restaurants housed in, well, a former nationwide chain restaurant. In Columbus, Chapman’s Eat Market took a former Max and Erma’s and turned it into what’s quickly become the restaurant to dine at in Ohio.

Remember Max and Erma’s? It was everyone’s favorite place to hang out in high school, with nostalgic decor and classic American dishes.

Chapman’s Eat Market/Google Local

Sadly, this chain is no longer the ubiquitous presence it once was, leaving many an empty restaurant to sit abandoned.

Carmen Chan/Google Local

But not in Columbus! Welcome to Chapman’s Eat Market, an Ohio restaurant that took a former Max + Erma’s and revamped it into something really special.

Chapman’s Eat Market/Facebook

When you walk into the restaurant at 739 S. Third in German Village, you’d have no idea it used to be a popular chain. The muted pink walls, green wallpaper, and bookshelves create a cozy and convivial vibe that’s the heart of the offbeat and fun Chapman’s dining experience of “Friendly Food, Delicious People.”

Chapman’s Eat Market/Facebook

The food is a mix of American comfort classics and globally-inspired flavors, for a culinary experience that’s truly unrivaled.

Chapman’s Eat Market/Facebook

You’re just as apt to find a comforting bowl of ramen as you are a behemoth breakfast sandwich, as Chapman’s really nails the kind of crave-worthy and comforting food folks love.

Chapman’s Eat Market/Facebook

The fries are in a league of their own, and no matter what you order, definitely get a side or two! But for the full experience, order the Chapman’s Double Burger, a delicious flavor bomb served with a side of crisp and flavorful shoestring fries that have been cooked in butter, pork, and beef fat. Big Mac who?

Anthony O’Connell (614feast)/Google Local

And if you, like us, enjoyed celebrating a birthday at Max and Ermas and have the waitstaff sing to you and bring out an epic cake… well, the servers might be game if you ask politely! But either way, the desserts here are to-die-for, especially the cake rolls that incorporate Chapman’s house-made ice cream.

Chapman’s Eat Market/Facebook

Have you visited Chapman’s Eat Market yet? Did you know this Ohio restaurant was located in a former Max and Erma’s? Talk about an upgrade! 

Chapman’s Eat Market/Google Local

Carmen Chan/Google Local

Chapman’s Eat Market/Facebook

Anthony O’Connell (614feast)/Google Local

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Address: Chapman’s Eat Market, 739 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206, USA