'Saved By the Bell' Replica Diner to Leave Chicago in May

CHICAGO, IL - The “Saved by the Bell” pop-up diner that’s been a destination for die-hard fans of the popular 1990s classic teen sitcom from all over the world will move to another city in 2017, but those close to Chicago will still have ample opportunity to visit the real-life version of the fictional diner. “Saved By the Max” will be in Chicago at its Wicker Park location at 1941 W. North Ave. until May.

Dennis Haskins, who played Mr. Belding on the show based on six teenagers at the fictional Bayside High School in California, made the announcement via a YouTube video this week.

“Want 'The Max' in your city?” he asked. “Well let us know, because we may just be heading to a city near you.”

The pop-up diner right in the heart of Chicago’s Bucktown-Wicker Park corridor has been so popular that what was originally supposed to be a month-long fad turned into what will be a year-long stay in Chicago’s most hip neighborhood.

Reservations were needed months in advance just to find a seat at the diner, which is a close replica to “The Max” set featured on the show.

LOOK INSIDE: ‘Saved By The Max’ Matches Show’s Legacy With Every Detail

After May, the restaurant will move to another city. Organizers haven’t announced where, but that is sure to come via a YouTube announcement from another star of the show like Mark Paul Gosselaar, Mario Lopez of Elizabeth Berkley.

Haskins announced that before moving on to other locales, “The Max” will spend “one final semester in Chicago” with more special guests, new menu items and will partner with “some of our favorite local charities.”

Tickets for the final “semester” will be sold beginning on Thursday, Dec. 22 at savedbythemax.com.

Photo by Dave Wischnowksy / On Twitter: @wischlist