Our Culture

In 1972, Todd Barnum and Barry Zacks walked into a sleepy little bar owned by a couple named Max and Erma. Todd and Barry offered to buy the place and sealed the deal with a handshake. They had a vision of bringing a gourmet hamburger restaurant to Columbus, Ohio. After renovating and decorating the restaurant with artifacts and local paraphernalia, Barry and Todd made Max & Erma’s a fun, unique place to take friends and family. Since that day, our guests consistently tell us that our all-American food, friendly service and atmosphere are the reasons they keep returning to Max & Erma’s. We’ve grown over the years, but remain true to what made us successful—delivering a great guest experience. Fun and enjoyable are key ingredients in the Max & Erma's company culture. We know that by creating a great place to work we are creating a great place for our guests.