Hamburger Mary’s Bar and Grille, a national burger chain, is headed to St. Louis. According to Midtown Alley developer Mark Wegmann, the local franchisees are expected to sign a lease within the next few weeks that would bring the popular gay-friendly burger chain to 3037 Olive St. in the space formerly occupied by Lush Nightclub, with doors expected to open in June.
Hamburger Mary’s was founded in 1972 and has grown from the original eatery in San Francisco to locations in 10 cities across the nation. While burgers take up plenty of real estate on the restaurant’s menu, diners also will find a variety of sandwiches, chili, soups, salads, desserts and more. In addition, the menu at each franchise outlet usually includes special dishes geared to the local community.
“The owners are a group of business people who believe it’s a great restaurant concept and a perfect fit for St. Louis and Midtown Alley,” stated Wegmann, who added that, “It will be fun and festive, serving quality food.” Wegmann also applauded the city of St. Louis for its assistance in bringing Hamburger Mary’s to the area via the development of a parking lot adjacent to the property.
Hambuger Mary’s is one of numerous new spots contributing to the revitalization of Midtown Alley. Double Apple Café and Hookah Lounge recently opened at 3131 Olive St., as did Field House Pub and Grill at 511 Theresa Ave. And while new microbrewery Urban Chestnut Brewing Co. started renovations of the space at 3229 Washington Ave. last summer, UCBC just recently opened its doors to thirsty downtowners. Soon to join the stretch along Olive Street are Adobe Reds, which will take the space formerly held by shuttered sandwich shop The U., and a café at the Hotel Ignacio, where there will also be an interior pass-through to Triumph Grill. Wegmann noted that the status of Pita Pit’s arrival, the national chain which was expected to move in at 3019 Olive St., is unclear at this time.
This article appears in April 2011.