LEWISTON – The owners of Marco’s are considering new locations for the popular downtown restaurant that burned in July.

According to co-owner Steve Taylor, there’s no timeline for opening the new Marco’s, but he is actively looking at existing buildings in Lewiston and Auburn as potential sites.

“Right now, there are a couple of places we’re looking at in the downtowns,” said Taylor, although other sites are under consideration as well. “We’re definitely working on it.”

Taylor said his commitment to reopening Marco’s hasn’t wavered since the July 13 fire destroyed the 26-year-old eatery. He had worked there since 1993, when he was hired as a cook. In April 2000, owner Marco Giancotti sold the restaurant to Taylor and his business partner, Duane Arnold.

Damage from the fire was estimated at $300,000. It destroyed the upper two floors of the building at 177 Lisbon St. The restaurant, located on the first floor, sustained smoke and water damage.

Taylor said he and his wife, Evie, run into people all the time who ask how things are going.

“I tell them things are in the works, but I don’t want to jump the gun,” he said. “Our No. 1 commitment is reopening.”

– Carol Coultas