Max Chophouse

This was literally a perfect night for my husband and I as we celebrated our wedding anniversary on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. The table they let us choose was huge—more than enough elbow room. The service was 10/10 (our waitress was Katie) which I think stood out in the post-pandemic era because restaurants have sometimes struggled to retain excellent service. I hope Max Chophouse pays their servers well. The food was absolutely to die for. I had the Hanger steak (10oz) with the red wine reduction sauce. When I say it was the best steak I’ve ever had, I’m not even remotely exaggerating. My husband had the NY Strip and feels similarly. I could not recommend this restaurant highly enough. We HAVE to return, because if I don’t get to experience that steak/sauce combo again I’ll perish. I adored this experience.

After being our go-to for takeout burgers, Max Chophouse is now also our new go-to for date night. Last time I got the ribeye and she got the sea bass. Everything was prepared to perfection. Their menu changes with the seasons, so order the heirloom tomato salad while you can. The wine list can be intimating, but look for the Turley zinfandel on the late page, which is tasty, pairs well with the steaks, and is a good value. Impeccable, friendly, and prompt yet unrushed service, at a place they remember you by name.

Don't let the strip mall fool you, this is absolutely a tier 1 restaurant in Rochester. My wife and I split oysters, a salad, creamed kale, fries, a filet mignon and a dry aged ribeye, topped it off with a delicious bottle of pinot noir that paired incredibly well with both the oysters and the steaks (doesn't always work out that way). Washed it all down with a couple of espresso martinis and a creme brûlée. Everything - down to the sea salt and rosemary rolls served with dinner - was absolutely incredible. It's expensive, about as much as we've paid for a meal in Rochester, but was a wonderful experience.

This was my first time at Max's. I had the pork chop and it was fabulous. The best that I've ever had. It came with brussel sprouts and potatoes on the side. My dad had the burger and fries which also looked delicious. The restaurant is not very big, so seating quarters are tight. The restaurant has a nostalgic feel to it. It's not inexpensive but it was worth every penny. I'll be back!