Video: 'Saved By The Bell' Pop-Up's Location Revealed

By Tankboy in Arts & Entertainment on Apr 19, 2016 4:01PM

Speculation has swirled aroun where exactly Saved By The Max—the Chicago-based pop-up diner and bar inspired by Saved By The Bell—would opens this summer. And now we have the answer, courtesy Ed Alonzo, the actor who played diner owner and magician Max in the original television series. In the above video Alonzo reveals the Wicker Park location will be at 1941 W. North Ave., currently the home of SFCO (formerly Geek Bar).

When Chicagoist spoke to Derek Berry, the creator of the Saved By The Max concept, about the space in February, he told us, “The right situation literally fell into my lap with a space that not only was going to be able to facilitate a Saved By The Bell theme, but could easily be made to replicate The Max. After one meeting I knew this space was perfect to make over and the people who own the space are into making this a home run experience nothing short of awesome!”

Since the location has housed Geek Bar, we can see how that space has the right genetics to become Saved By The Bell crew's beloved hangout.

Saved By The Max debuts June 1, and its hours will be 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily, except Saturdays when they’ll be open until 3 a.m., organizers announced Tuesday. On April 22, they will also start selling dinner reservation tickets through the Saved By The Max website. However the venue’s brunch, late night, and special events will all be on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Organizers tell us they have a full slate of special events—including celebrity appearances, live music, and DJs— along with a unique menu created by a chef that will be revealed at a later date. Whether you’re a Preppie or a Jock, Saved By The Max is shaping up to be a crowd-pleaser for everyone.