Max’s Restaurant

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Originated from the Philippines, Max’s started in the year 1945.

Maximo Gimenez, a Stanford – educated teacher befriended the American troops stationed at Quezon City, Manila. These soldiers would regularly visit Maximo’s nearby home for a drink or two. The troops then insisted that they pay for their drinks and this was what inspired Maximo to open a café, where the troops could enjoy food and drinks. The cafe initially served chicken, steak and drinks. Maximo’s niece, Ruby, who managed the kitchen, created a special recipe for chicken that became an instant favorite with the GIs. Soon, the word spread among Filipino residents near-by. They came looking for the delicious, tender, juicy and crispy fried chicken. Max’s Restaurant was born. (source)

Max’s second branch in Abu Dhabi is located at Dalma Mall (you know where to find me). My father prefers Filipino food and Max is always his first option whenever he’s asking me where to dine (yep it always end up at Max 😔).

I got jinx whenever I visit the restaurant (honestly, there wasn’t a time they didn’t fail😞). I mean, the food is averagely good (3.0 star) but they always deliver bad services (wrong food, the appetizer was late, etc.). I believe it’s because of the lack of manpower which makes the system disorganized.

For the food, I recommend you to take the appetizer platter (the lumpia is the bomb). I used to cook buffalo wings but this one is too spicy for my buds. Also, the classic meal brings memories from the past.

DSCF7716 Max’s Appetizer Platter (Calamares, Lumpiang Shanghai, Chicken Wings, Fresh Lumpiang Ubod) for 36 AED