Kuma's Corner may come to Schaumburg this summer

A Schaumburg location of the Chicago-based, heavy-metal-themed burger restaurant Kuma's Corner could open around July 1 if it receives village board approval on March 24.

The popular eatery known for its distinct atmosphere and menu that pull in nighttime and weekend crowds in the city received a unanimous recommendation from the village's zoning board Wednesday night.

Kuma's Corner plans to occupy a 3,529-square-foot space in the easternmost outlot building of the Woodfield Village Green Shopping Center — directly across Golf Road from Woodfield Mall.

The original Kuma's Corner at 2900 W. Belmont Ave. in Chicago will celebrate its 10th anniversary in August. Under the direction of founder Mike Cain, it established the company identity with its grungy feel, less-than-polite wait staff and an emphasis on a gourmet food selection and locally brewed beers.

A second location — Kuma's Too — was opened by Cain's brother Ron in February 2013 at 666 W. Diversey Parkway in Chicago. Ron Cain is now director of operations for the company and would personally open the pending Schaumburg location as well.

Just about the only change since Kuma's Corner went into expansion mode two years ago has been a slightly greater emphasis on service, Ron Cain said.

“We're trying to maintain the feel,” he added.

The Schaumburg Kuma's Corner actually would be the restaurant's fourth location. The third, started by a business partner of the brothers, will open in Indianapolis in May.

The company will probably stop expansion in the Chicago area after the Schaumburg location and look to other markets in the Midwest instead, possibly making Milwaukee next, Ron Cain said.

The suburbs were the next likely stop in the Chicago market, and Schaumburg was chosen after Ron Cain became familiar with the area through many years of living in the Western suburbs.

A suburban location with the possibility for a strong lunchtime crowd was sought. The proximity of office buildings and stores near Woodfield made it an obvious choice, he said.