Kristie Burton
The food was pretty good & reasonably priced. We especially loved the atmosphere! If you have objections to eating at the bar, be sure to make reservations. It’s a small/quaint place so it fills up quickly!
Andria McElroy
10/10 recommend!
Homemade bread & oil with Parmesan and pepper flakes- amazing!
Frog legs - large portions and perfectly paired with squeezed lemon
Fried mozzarella- sauce is absolute bliss point of salt/sweet/tang ratio.
Chicken fettuccine Alfredo- smooth and creamy sauce, not overly salted, and hints of nutmeg
Linguine and meatballs- smaller portion, but perfect amount if ordered with appetizer. Meatballs are divine.
This is our second visit and Maxi’s has exceeded our (already high) expectations!!
P.s we love to be able to eat first class food while dressed casually :)
Andy Davis
A welcoming and delicious Italian restaurant. We were seated quickly, sat on the patio out back, and had service on the spot. We split the ‘Maxi’s Pizza’, and Calamari Pasta, and both were exceptional (and came out fast). The pasta was cooked perfectly and salted just right...I don’t even like pasta normally, but my mouth is watering as I write this review. We took home the last two slices of pizza and reheated then in the oven today - still great!
Parking: we found an open spot on the side street (1 min. walk), free on the weekends.
Steve Costa
Party of six. Everyone loved their meal. Apps, main course, desserts all exceptional. No rush dining experience. We will be back!
Jane Cera
I experienced one of my favorite dining experiences all summer at Maxi’s. Friendly bar, superb selections of wine and cocktails and coffees. I had the Bolognese Pappardelle , and it compared to food I ate in Italy. Doesn’t look like a lot from the street, but the bar and gorgeous outside patio in the back is worth the visit.
Sebastian
Maxi's Bistro in Little Italy, Cleveland, is a true gastronomical haven for Italian cuisine aficionados. Every dish seems to carry the soul and richness of traditional Italian cooking, served with a flair that only Maxi's can offer.
Starting with the appetizers, the Calamari at Maxi's is a showstopper. Expertly fried to a crispy golden hue, it's neither rubbery nor oily. Each bite reveals tender squid encased in a crunchy shell, served with a side of zesty marinara sauce that adds a delightful tang to the dish.
The Bruschetta Classico is an experience to savor. It showcases perfectly toasted bread, robust with the flavors of garlic, which is then topped with a refreshing mix of tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. It's a harmony of textures and flavors that sets the tone for the culinary journey ahead.
The star of the show, however, is the Lobster Ravioli. It's a plate of tender pasta pillows filled with a rich lobster mixture, bathed in a creamy and subtly seasoned sauce. Every bite of this dish is a celebration of flavor, with the seafood's inherent sweetness perfectly complemented by the savory richness of the sauce.
No meal at Maxi's is complete without their desserts. The Cannoli and Tiramisu are the epitome of classic Italian sweets. The Cannoli is impeccably crispy with a slightly sweet, creamy ricotta filling, while the Tiramisu is a symphony of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, creamy mascarpone, and a dusting of cocoa that leaves you craving for more.
What makes the dessert experience even more enjoyable is their fantastic Cappuccino. With its smooth texture, rich flavor, and the perfect ratio of espresso to milk, it pairs wonderfully with the desserts, enhancing their sweetness and providing a well-rounded end to your meal.
However, the parking situation at Maxi's leaves something to be desired. Parking, especially during dinner hours, can be difficult to find and costly, adding a layer of stress to an otherwise enjoyable culinary experience. Maxi's Bistro is nestled in a bustling part of Little Italy, and while this lends a vibrant atmosphere, it does make parking a challenge.
In conclusion, Maxi's Bistro is an Italian cuisine gem, delivering on flavor, authenticity, and some of the best Cappuccino in town. However, the parking scenario can dampen the overall dining experience. Even with the parking troubles, the quality of the food and drinks makes Maxi's a worthy spot for an Italian culinary adventure.
Paul Clay
Huge slice of past and present awaits you. Family aspects evident in the staffing. FRESH foods, great presentation, and ample seating (inside, front patio, back patio). Main and back bar areas.
Enjoyed hearing their voice intonation and native language. Their Calamari is light and refreshing - not overdone. Spinach arugula salad exceptionally fresh.
Michael Stone
Lil Italy in Cleveland. Very good Italian food. The service was excellent 👌. We went with friends. Had a great time.
Seraphina Lowe
We went to this restaurant for an early dinner with some friends. I would give this place a five star review, but they had NOTHING for kids/toddlers. No high chairs, no kids menu, no plastic/ smaller cups for kids to use. Since we were there with our 2 year old (and our friends had a 1-1/2 year old) this was very inconvenient. However, the food was amazing, our server was so kind and was so understanding of our kids & did his best with what the restaurant had for our kids.
Scott
This was a great experience from start to finish! Our server, Fatian, has worked here for 14 years and he took great care of us. We had pizza as an appetizer and it was incredible, perfect crust, perfect cheese, perfect sauce, every bite was fabulous! We split linguine and meatballs, as you can tell by the picture, it was perfect, what you can’t tell from the picture is that it was delicious! Totally authentic Italian. You have to try this place!!!
Ashley Horvat
A wonderful little spot, one of the best in Little Italy by far! Food was delicious, the spinach ravioli was perfect and the sauce on them cannot be found anywhere else! Service was a little lax, he consistently looked over and then walked away or stared weirdly but never came to ask if we needed drinks refilled etc. Overall the food is amazing and it's a cute little place.
Dan DC Tree
Food is absolutely amazing, plates as well as the sauces used were prepared the right way, fresh, and warm.. service was great and on point. Drink and wine list was even and clean with nice variety. Environment was easy going and comfortable, casual dress code and in the heart of little Italy. Will definitely be there again to try other options on menu.
ray griffin
Food is delicious, pizzas are huge and enough for three people so the value is good. One of the best pizzas I've had too. Pictures are spinach ravioli, and the Alex pizza (stuffed hot peppers and sausage)
Tara
Food was just ok in my opinion. Also, this place is very small so where we sat we were wedged between two tables. Our chairs were about an inch away from touching the chairs at the table beside us. Our server was kind and attentive even though they were busy.
Jay DesForges
First timer here, the food I'd amazing!
Service was slow, considering we were the only ones in the restaurant.
Drinks were just okay. Rum & coke was not great and the white sangria was terrible.
Food was amazing! I had the cavetteli and meatballs, it was so good. She had the spinach ravioli with meatballs, and it was so good.
Appetizers were good. We ordered the bruschetta rustica, but they gave us the wrong one. The breaded mozzarella was very good.
They served fresh bread, which was hot out of the oven with olive oil to dip in. Although, if you plan to eat a big meal, skip the bread. The food is worth it.
All things considered, it was a great place to eat.
Michele Maas
We always have to go to Maxi’s when we got to Little Italy. Today was even more special. We got to meet Christine who was our bartender and Terek who also works there. They were amazing and gave us the best customer service ever! And Terek is from our hometown of Canton and we had several people in common. We love to meet new people and enjoy great food! We got to check off both of these things from our to-do list! We enjoyed the cauliflower with jalapeño sauce, the delicious calamari and some amazing pizza! And the tiramisu dessert was awesome (thank you Christine)! We can’t wait until our next visit to Maxi’s! A must when in Little Italy!😊🍷❤️
Michael Smith
This is a great little Italian restaurant in Little Italy. I was shocked at the quality of the food that came out of this small restaurant. The Veal Scaloppini Marsala was fantastic. The muscles were awesome and we had a great bottle of wine. Our waiter had a great personality and we can’t wait to go back. We sat out in the small patio, really just the sidewalk, and took in the atmosphere.
Att Store
Excellent service. Bartender Terrick was great. Makes a mean Manhattan. Nice atmosphere - very pleasant patio. Unfortunately, food was disappointing. Didn't live up to expectations based on reviews. Saltimbocca had raw onions and very little flavor. I'd give the pasta a B. Won't be going back any time soon. Many much better options on the street. Oh well, rolled the dice....
Jay Games
When I walked into the front door. I was greeted with smiles. I thought they were closed because a sign was left out. I sat at the bar and was immediately served. I had a white wine and calamari for my appetizer. I was just heavenly. My main dish was the chicken cacciatore it wasn’t my favorite but still very delicious. Asparagus was made to perfection.
You know this place really has a great atmosphere, very welcoming and relaxing. I would definitely come back for more and more.
Lastly but certainly not least my server Terry was amazing. Ask for Terry he has a phenomenal sprite and I just loved him 🥰🥰🥰
Gary Hites
Definitely have reservations!
Great food and service. I had the farefalle pasta with Italian sausage, hot banana peppers, Greene and red peppers, and tomato basil sauce.
It was outstanding in taste and portion. The bread and dipping sauce went well with the mesclun salad and balsamic dressing.
Food came out in a timely manner and the server was very attentive.
I would recommend to anyone going to the Cleveland area stop by Maxi's in little Italy �
Michael Mills
I had the tripe this past weekend, one of the best ever. I know tripe is a treat that many people say they do not like the smell when it is cooking. While that is why you need to try it here. Something you will never forget. Thanks so much!!
Carolyn Michele
Incredible meal! Best calamari hands down.
You can’t get a bad meal, all food fresh, great flavors and wonderful service. We will definitely return.
Marcel Macholda
Love this place. The best Calamari in Cleveland. My wife and I are from Cincinnati and we come up to Cleveland quite often. Little Italy is always on the visit list and Maxi's is one of our stops. It was a great place to spend Christmas Eve along with some great Italian food and wine
Linda Scott Tolhurst
We were told about Maxie’s when Mama Santa’s was closed because of the festival. We ordered linguine with meat balls and it was the best spaghetti and meat balls I have ever had and I’m Italian. We will definitely go there agains. Next time I will try a different dish.
Elbie Morales
Timely and friendly service, great variety on the menu, delicious food (I had goat cheese ravioli) and they make a mean espresso martini! It was my first time and it's definitely on the list to revisit!!
Terry Tarantino
One of my favorite places to hang out great Pizza, great salad... and who doesn't love their calamari!!! My favorite place to sneak and have an espresso!
David DeFazio
Terrific! I had a glass of wine with the best calamari I have Ever tasted, served by a friendly staff
Marcia Kamczyc Bianchi
First time here....I had the goat cheese ravioli and my husband had the cavetelli and meatballs. Delicious! Excellent service. Only complaint salads are ala carte and not worth the price.
Besnik Benito Benny Izairi
Great food and pizza. Definitely worth the trip from Milwaukee
Gerry Szarek
Awesome fish, cute place, great staff, note it is small you need reservations. Reasonably priced cheaper than Boston.
Karmin Jokilehto
Best food in Little Italy! Gorgeous patio & excellent service!! The BEST calamari around.
James Warren
Food was great, calamari was awesome, caprese salad was awesome, everyone in my party loved their entrée. Definitely worth the money, and I even got a couple cannolis to go! Will be back for more the next time I'm in Cleveland's Little Italy.
Rene Perry
Chicken Marsala was amazing! The best I've ever had! Appetizers were great combination of flavors! Waiter was very kind and wonderful!
Elise Olexa
Maxi's:
- great food
- great ambiance
- great service
- very friendly and helpful staff
What more could you ask for !
Another Food Critic
All of that charm really shows through in these neighborhoods; little eateries with friendly and loquacious staff always ready with a joke or a drink but definitely focused on making sure your experience in their business is tops. Maxi’s Bistro is just as wonderful.
Brad P
Have always enjoyed the food service and ambiance . This time however the female bartender was far more interested in her cell phone than business. Wanted another beer but happy to get her attention to pay my incorrect tab. Used to really like this place but not sure I will be back
Susansunshine
WONDERFUL LUNCH IN LITTLE ITALY!!. Had never dined @ Maxi's, so thought we would give it a try. What a delightful find!! Great service, fresh salad & tasty chicken. Heading back this week - can't wait!!!
Kimberlee.gilchrist
Wedding Rehearsal Dinner Nightmare. Absolutely worst possible service I've ever experienced. We booked the Maxi’s Banquet room for our wedding rehearsal dinner. Excited to show off Little Italy to our wedding guests, we chose Maxi’s because they offered us private banquet room for our group of 25 out of town guests. <br/><br/>We worked with the restaurant manager, Fatian, 8 months in advance to book the space and select a customized menu well in advance. When we arrived, the hostess told us the room was not ready- they had booked another rehearsal dinner in the banquet room just before ours. They said the other group was “wrapping up” and asked us to wait a few minutes. <br/><br/>So, there we were....25 of us, all dressed up for a rehearsal dinner, standing on the curb of Maxi’s in Little Italy crowded around the little hostess stand. After 20 minutes of waiting, we were anxious. After 30 minutes, we were frustrated. After 50 minutes of waiting for a banquet room we booked well in advance, and when the restaurant manager finally came to even acknowledge us, he asked us to “wait just a little longer”. He was completely clueless. Fed up and frustrated, not just because we were already waiting nearly an hour, but also because the other party wasn't even done with their dinner yet. Clearly, we weren't getting into the banquet room any time soon and yet Fatian kept asking us to "just wait". <br/><br/>Luckily, we were able to take our 25 guests across the street to Gusto! Ristorante Italian where they took us in, sat us, and make a delicious meal in no time. The Accordian even played for us to provide upbeat entertainment. <br/><br/>Huge thank you to Gusto for saving the day, and a huge disappointment in Maxi’s and their incredibly slow and completely not concerned staff.
Samuel V.
Steak was cooked well but was lacking flavor. The sides which were sautéed mushrooms and potatoes were burnt. On the bright side the tiramisu was amazing!
Andrew Haiduck
Great Lunch. Wife had pizza, I had sausage and peppers with bowtie pasta. We were both very pleased with the meal. Would definitely come back if in the area again (we live 25 miles away). We'll be having the leftover pizza for dinner.
Beersnob13
Good not great. We ate here last Sunday since we live in MI and were in CLeveland area to visit family. We love Little Italy and decided to grrab a bite. We did not know exactly where to go so we choose Maxis on a whim. The calamari was great, we then had the mozzerela and tomato salad which was fine. My husband had cavatelli and meatballs and he said the sauce tasted like Chef Boyardee, I had the goat cheese stuffed pasta which was good but I think the portion size was small. Everything is a la carte so it is pricey. For our meal we had a bill of $68+ it seems pricey for what you get. I would probably not return, I think having a soup or salad choice with your main coarse is a nice option.
Georgiaf333
Great Place. Best calamari in town. Great wine selection
Nick
Average. Overpriced pasta you could make at home. Pizza was ok. Stuffed banana peppers were just thrown into deep fryer and sauced. The sausage was fried and tasted like nothing.
Mike Cotrufo
Lake Erie HOG Chapter - Harley Night. Our HOG group of 30 riders made reservations at Maxi's and what an outstanding job RJ and his staff did for us! Not only was the food fantastic, but the service was impeccable! Also, finding a place to park over 20 motorcycles is hard enough on a Friday night in Little Italy, so Justin, the Valet, allowed all of us to park together in the front of the restaurant. Again, outstanding service! I highly recommend Maxi's for your group, or if you'd like a fantastic meal for just you and a date. By the way, the Bone-In Ribeye steak is killer!
Good Eats
Awfully Awful. The food was edible but expensive. Ordered a burger but was told there were no buns. This greasy spoon is two doors down from a bakery - ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! If "bistro" means expensive food made so-so then you may enjoy this experience.
Heidi
Had the Little Italy pizza and the parmesean topping was way too salty. Not a good first experience
Dionne
Love it!!!. Traveled to Cleveland for work and had Maxi's Bistro for dinner and could not be happier!. The food was a little high priced but it was so worth it!!. I enjoyed every bite of everything I ate!!!! Next time I am in Cleveland I will make sure to venture to Maxi's
Jodalah
Sevice was terrible. She should have been fired. The waitress we had was rude and should have been fired for treating the bus boy like an idiot. She said he wasn't quite right and pointed to her head. <br/>When I tipped her I gave her a 10% tip. She followed us out and asked why we had only given her and 11.5% tip???? Really????<br/>I slipped the bus boy 5 dollars for his aggravation of having to deal with her.<br/>I will never go back to this less than fair establishment.
C.u.
Had the most excellent calamari.
Jessica Harland
Best calamari ever, service I always feel welcome, and the ribeye to die for
NNN
Overpriced. Menu looked good, but the prices were so high that we left without even ordering.
Quality Critic
Not worth the visit. Would not recommend this restaurant for the price point they are at. Food was mediocre at best. Paying more then $5 for a mesculin salad mix from a bag is ridiculous. Dressing was oil and vinegar. Escarole was fair, but veins were not removed from greens. Pizza mediocre at best. Main dishes ordered were raviolis and chicken. We paid $180 + for five adults and one child under 10. Waitress charges us a 20% gratuity. We will not be back -- with so many good choices out there, Maxi's is on our do not return list.
Bite Buff
In the heart of it all on Mayfield Road, they offer a couple of outdoor tables, an expansive bar and small casual dining area downstairs, and then a more formal dining room upstairs. We just saddled up to the bar, and had excellent service from the bartender throughout
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