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Max's Opera Cafe Reviews List

Max's Opera Cafe

For over 25 years, Max's has served America's favorite foods with an upscale style at affordable prices. Boasting "everything you've always wanted to eat”, only at Max's will you find a corned beef Reuben, Chinese chicken salad, rib-eye steak, BBQ ribs and Roma pasta all on one table. And for those with a sweet tooth, Max's sinful; award winning desserts will keep you coming back for more.
See more Max's Opera Cafe details
176 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
3.7 / 5
(Very Good) 3.7 / 5
(176 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 176 reviews
5 stars
(27)
4 stars
(90)
3 stars
(39)
2 stars
(17)
1 star
(3)
Food 
3.6 / 5
(Very Good) 3.6 / 5
Service 
3.8 / 5
(Very Good) 3.8 / 5
Ambiance 
3.5 / 5
(Very Good) 3.5 / 5
Noise Level
2.4 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • great for lunch(55)
  • good for groups(54)
  • neighborhood gem(42)
  • fit for foodies(31)
  • great for brunch(31)
  • kid-friendly(29)
Max's Opera Cafe Reviews List
Review 1 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Consistancy

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Max's always comes through! Shall go again."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 2 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Understaffed on Mothers' Day!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We booked and were seated early, which was nice. This very large restaurant was less than 1/3 full when we ordered. Our drinks came promptly but it was nearly an hour before our sandwiches came (sandwiches!). The restaurant had only begun to fill up 30 to 40 minutes after we ordered, and the couple at the next table (seated before us) also had a long wait. The waiter never came to check on us during the meal, and when he finally came at the end, we wanted another sandwich to go but were told that the kitchen was so backed up, it would take another 30 minutes or more, so we declined. We have eaten at this Max's often over the years and were surprised that they were so understaffed, and on Mothers' Day!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 3 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Menu has been shortened

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I'm an out of town visitor and once LOVED Max's. Now, I just like it. They once had an extensive menu with lots of great, fun items. Pretty short and boring now. I'll still go there but I won't bust my hump to get there like I once did."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 4 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Below expectations

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Waiter was pleasant when greeted but no follow up after taking order. Noticed same of other tables. Served bread to all tables except ours."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 5 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Mothers day at Max's

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Three of us met at Max's on Mother's day. It was packed!
I warned my out of town guests the portions are generous and to be prepared to share.
We all ordered something different and were satisfied.
Very nice brunch."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 6 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Was fine

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I would not go out of my way to go here! But it was fin since we were going to the ballet.
My omelette was really good and the biscuit it came with was to die for!!
My friend ordered eggs benedict which had I been her I would have sent back, the eggs were almost hard bolled .... they are supposed to be soft boiled and runny. If you cant get them right thennt offer eggs benedict on the menu
All in all though it was ok
"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, kid-friendly
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Review 7 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Max's before the Theater

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This wasn't our first meal at Max's Opera location; we've been enjoying the food for years. However, this was our first visit with children in our party! We were given a great table. Kid menus were provided and listed true kid gems at reasonable prices. Crayons and a coloring sheet came in quite handy. Adults and children enjoyed their meals, and were most certainly not left hungry. Delightful evening was had by all."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 8 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Dan

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/07/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"we were disappointed. Last time we were there was about a year ago, when it was packed. This time it was about half filled. The service as prompt and friendly. We ordered soup or salad and hot sandwiches, which came right after we received our first coarse and we asked the waiter to take them back and keep them hot. When they came later they were not hot and were overcooked."
Dined on 5/07/2013
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Review 9 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Best deli in SF

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Max's is just a great deli/restaurant. The food is always really good, fresh, tasty and as it should be. When you order coleslaw, you get the real thing--not something tricked up with onions or green peppers, just the real thing. The Ruben is exactly what you would expect a great Ruben to be--generous amounts of corned beef, just the right amount of sauerkraut, grilled rye, melted cheese--perfect. Deserts are amazing--not trendy, just great carrot cake, pies, etc."
Dined on 5/08/2013
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Review 10 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Max's was unprepared for the crowd

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My friend and I ate at Max's for lunch before attending a matinee performance of SF Ballet's "Cinderella". The restaurant was very crowded and service was extremely slow. After being seated and being served our beverages, 45 minutes elapsed before our meals arrived at our table. At one point a staff person came over to tell us that our meals were being redone because they had been sitting for too long without being brought to our table.
Once the food arrived, I enjoyed Max's famous Red Cabbage Soup and Bistro Salad Combo. It was delicious. In fact, the soup was "to die for"."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, great for lunch
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Review 11 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Never again

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This used to be a great restaurant. The last couple of times that I've been there, the service has gotten worse and worse. Rude waiters, wrong orders, slow, inattentive service. In the past, Max's used to pride itself on it's service. And in fact, the other Max's locations still provide good food and service. If it were me, I'd have everyone, including the management at Max's Opera Plaza replaced and/or retrained. Maybe it's a problem with the kitchen, but this place isn't at all what it used to be.
It's sad... Not a whole lot of options in that area -- especially on the weekends. It's why we've returned despite the bad service. However, this time, we all agreed it was our last meal at Max's."
Dined on 5/05/2013
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Review 12 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

SF Ballet

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We arrived 25 minutes prior to our reservation, but were seated right away. However we were seated way in a back corner (several other tables were available) next to an open window at a busy intersection. The server was very attentive and helpful. He seemed to anticipate our needs before we even knew we had them. The food was eh. We each had the pastrami sandwich. The meat was very fatty, making it hard to eat and not a great experience. We did ask to have the window closed only to have another employee come by and try to open it again. He looked at me in disbelief when I asked him to keep it closed. All in all, a good experience and will go back the next time we attend the ballet."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 13 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One (of many) great dinners

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Max's does not disappoint. Get "Monte" as your waiter - funny guy with great customer service..
We're going back bext week.
Len"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, late-night find, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 14 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/29/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Had never heard of/seen Max's... but it's a cool place... I'm glad I stumbled upon it.
Went on a Monday night so it was super quiet. Not sure if it gets louder throughout the week into the weekend. There was a live piano player, which was great - added to the low-key nature.
The food is excellent / indulgent. Super friendly wait-staff as well. I'd recommend."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 15 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Go Ahead, You'll Like It.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great spot before a show/performance. Get there a little early because the place gets hoppin'. There were several vegetarian options and my carnivorous friends also found something tasty. Service was good. Bar service was a slow, even when ordering a drink from a table - there is a rush pre and post performances. We will go back. Great spot. The Open Table reservation feature really helped us secure a spot."
Dined on 04/28/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, kid-friendly, hot spot
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Review 16 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I hear music . . .

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The pianist is the big draw here! He's absolutely the best which makes for a fabulous dining experience!"
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2004
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 17 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Not the Old Max's

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"They've changed their menus and it shows"
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2000
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Review 18 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Still a fun place to go before

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Still a fun place to go before a show. We took our daughters here before their performance at the Symphony and were seated right by the piano player. Our girls loved it. They made requests for songs and the pianist happily accommodated. They had a fabulous time and everyone enjoyed their dinners. It was the perfect atmosphere for our budding singers :)"
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
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Review 19 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Excellent service w/ small portions

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"It's has been awhile since I been to Max's, but one of the specialities was their LARGE portion sizes. Tonight's dinner waa a disappointment because they have truly DOWNSIZE their portions now. Also, I ordered the Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast - I was expecting it to be carved from a roasted turkey, but what I got was the "deli"-kind due to the shaving and not carving. That was another speciality where their "comfort food" was authentic, but it has become more artificial.
The only good thing about my dining experience was the service. Our waitress was EXCELLENT - very friendly, attentive and professional. I encourage the restaurant to promote her to hostess or manager."
Dined on 04/22/2013
 2010
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 20 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

My pot pie came out of the

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My pot pie came out of the kitchen cold in the middle! Ugh. Otherwise, everything was fine if uninspired."
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2008
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Review 21 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

From 730pm t0 745pm restaurant

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"From 730pm t0 745pm restaurant was packed and very loud. After 745 restaurant was quiet.
I always enjoy eating at Max's restaurants
"
Dined on 04/16/2013
 2012
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Review 22 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

great food and service before

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"great food and service before the ballet as always !"
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2012
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Review 23 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

We had terrible service. The

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had terrible service. The hostess nor waiter acknowledged that it was a birthday celebration, even though the restaurant was not crowded/busy. Waiter did not check in on us after dropping off food, and we then waited again later for the bill. Terrible service."
Dined on 04/16/2013
 2007
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Review 24 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Overall the experience was

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Overall the experience was excellent. We will definitely come back. The waiter was great which I feel is important. (Sorry I forgot his name). I would of checked outstanding on the food but they were out of mushrooms for the order we initially wanted, but that didn't affect our overall dining experience. I would definitely recommend Max's to friends & family.
Tony Valdez
"
Dined on 04/15/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 25 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

mediocre

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We normally like Max but this experience was mediocre at best - food was uninspiring and waiter absent. WE booked it for special occasion and it turned out to be just average...."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2008
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Review 26 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

many thanks for the great

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"many thanks for the great communication between Open Table and Max's to have the requested table set aside for us --- a really great experience at their new brunch"
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for brunch, great for lunch
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Review 27 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

15-20 mins for attention,

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"15-20 mins for attention, more for beverages and even more for simple special. All with a reservation."
Dined on 04/14/2013
 2012
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Review 28 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

This Maxs has gone downhill!!

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Max's, at least this one, has gone downhill. I think thry have new owners. I got the same salad I always gat (so I am 'qualified" in this case to compare for rating purposes). It used to be I got the 'lunch' size & it was way big. I got the $14.99 size vs $11.99 size & it came in a much smaller bowl), with a MEASLY portion of chixken (maybe 2 oz). So it was just some greens, rice noodles & a little piece of dried up chicken. Then they had the nerve to charge an extran$5 for chicken (I substituted grilled vs fried). The good news is, I noticed $19.99 WOW! for the salad & complained & they took tje extra charge off. p.s. - This Max's doesn't accept the "Maxs Rewards Card) or do the "brewed in a pot" iced tea.
The service was excellent
"
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2007
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Review 29 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

The food was mediocre and

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was mediocre and the service was hard to find, at times. Plus, we were seated almost next to the piano and it was very disruptive. Very disappointing time. Will not return"
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2012
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Review 30 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The best place for a casual

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The best place for a casual dinner before the symphony or ballet. Food is good, service is quick."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2002
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Review 31 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The best place for a casual

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The best place for a casual dinner before the symphony or ballet. Food is good, service is quick."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2002
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Review 32 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The pianist was excellent,

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The pianist was excellent, and the food was just what we were looking for (a quick bite with friends prior to going out to a concert)."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2010
Special Features: kid-friendly, neighborhood gem
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Review 33 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Max's: OK, but....

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"1.) Great menu - they have absolutely everything including very imaginative lunch dishes such as an artichoke and vegetable sandwich! Everything from salads, superb sandwiches, steaks, soups, appetizers, etc... You will have a hard time deciding!
2.) Ambience inside is kind of stuck in the 1960's - 1970's. They would be better off hiring an interior restaurant architecture firm to do a redesign and reconstruction of the complete inside.
3.) service is good - attentive.
4.) Prices are super reasonable - I was surprised!
Overall - recommend - but this is not a fancy smancy restaurant: it is dated!!!
"
Dined on 04/03/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for lunch
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Review 34 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

I've been going to Max's since

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I've been going to Max's since they opened. This is the first time that I experienced such poor service. Even though it was Easter there were just a few people while we were there. Our waiter was very friendly and polite but seemed overwhelmed with the couple of tables he was serving. Good thing the place wasn't crowded because they would have been terribly understaffed."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2012
Special Features: neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 35 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very deep menu with very responsive

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Very deep menu with very responsive service!"
Dined on 03/25/2013
 2004
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 36 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Have been to Max's many times

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Have been to Max's many times and haven't gotten to all the great food experiences I want to try. The sweet and sour brisket was to die for I added their real ! horseradish and then the mash potatoes omg...Maxs is a big part of my ballet season. Obviously I'm a watcher not a dancer."
Dined on 03/27/2013
 2012
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Review 37 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Pre-Davies Hall Concert dinner

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Pre-Davies Hall Concert dinner for ten. Very flexible and attentive."
Dined on 03/26/2013
 2011
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Review 38 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

ICK

Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Service was abominable. We were there for over 2 1/2 hours. Our dinner plates were not removed for more than 45 minutes, and water glasses were only refilled once in 2 1/2 hours and that is all we were drinking.
My salad's noodles were cold and clumped together and squishy. My daughters' mac and cheese was cold and glue-like. ick. will not be coming back.
"
Dined on 03/25/2013
 2000
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Review 39 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

We enjoyed our dinner. The

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We enjoyed our dinner. The service was good, but with the restaurant so busy, it took longer than usual to receive our drinks. No matter, the dining experience overall was good."
Dined on 03/25/2013
 2008
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, kid-friendly, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 40 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent food and service....great

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Excellent food and service....great place for lunch or dinner before the opera or ballet."
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for lunch
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Review 41 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I go there because it is close

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I go there because it is close to the opera house. they took two favorite salads off the menu, the spinach and the mexican...waiter said people have complained. Please bring one of them back."
Dined on 03/23/2013
 2006
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 42 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Pre-Ballet Dinner

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We love Max's for dinner before the ballet. They get us in and out efficiently but we never feel rushed. The weekend prime rib special is a great deal, very tasty! Service is always attentive, speedy, and fun."
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for lunch
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Review 43 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Our server was Blanca. She

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our server was Blanca. She has been my server both at a table and the bar many times and is always outstanding."
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2006
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Review 44 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great service and live music

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great service and live music from a jazz pianist who can play almost any classic jazz piece off the top of his head. The hostess sang "Sway" for us upon request and made it look so easy! Desserts were so-so... the baked goods weren't very fresh and overly sweet. I'd go back for the ambiance, service, and entertainment. Maybe we'll try the appetizers next time."
Dined on 03/13/2013
 2009
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 45 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Chicken wings must be little

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Chicken wings must be little chick wings or quail wings!!! Super tiny but tasty."
Dined on 03/11/2013
 2005
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Review 46 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Enjoyed the ambiance and food.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Enjoyed the ambiance and food. Waiter was very helpful. Good food!"
Dined on 03/07/2013
 2006
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion, great for lunch
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Review 47 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

We did not like the menu changes.

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We did not like the menu changes. My two favorite items were not on the new menu. The food was not up to the usual standards. We liked to go to Max's before the ballet--that is between 6-8 times a season. We have decided to find another place for dinner."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2006
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Review 48 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Large portions, good food,

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Large portions, good food, quick service, always a good choice before a play, symphony or ballet."
Dined on 02/28/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, great for lunch
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Review 49 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good old Max's! I've been

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Good old Max's! I've been here many times. I love the big salads here... tasty and a full meal! This is fairly traditional entrées, plus the excellent salads, some deli sandwiches and desserts. You WON'T find chili peppers in every dish and it is all tasty. There are gluten-free and vegetarian choices. Ambiance is bright and fun and staff pleasant and helpful.
A great spot for supper or lunch before ballet, symphony, opera, concert or trade show at the 4 nearby venues, and excellent when you want to entertain a group which includes people of varying food preferences, and non-foodies. My friend loved her huge chicken-pot pie and I the motzoh ball soup."
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2012
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 50 for Max's Opera Cafe
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Love Max's Opera Cafe. Try

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Love Max's Opera Cafe. Try to eat there whenever in SF. Our waiter was awesome"
Dined on 02/28/2013
 2013
Special Features: special occasion
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