Monday, September 21, 2009

Max Burger - West Hartford, CT


If you live in Connecticut, surely you’re heard of the mighty Max Restaurant Group. They run a tremendously successful group of restaurants, each with their own distinct identity. Their latest venture is Max Burger, located in a former bank building. The location is just out of the bustle of West Hartford Center, but if one name is going to attract customers, it’s “Max”. And boy, we are grateful they took over the space!!

The place has a very casual “cowboy theme” atmosphere with a bar and outside seating area. They have a burger for everyone…yes, even vegetarians. My personal favorites are the “Fatty Melt” (like anything with that name is going to taste bad) and the “Alfred”. (cheese, caramelized onions and rosemary aioli). The burgers are chock full of beefy goodness, moist and bursting with flavor. I like that they use Niman Ranch beef, which has an excellent reputation for offering humanely raised products.

Burgers are accompanied by a side of hand-cut fries and pickles. Do not diss the pickles; they’re worth each crunchy bite. I’ve also tried the sweet potato fries, but I found them to be pretty average and will stick to the regular fries going forward.

There is also a nice selection of appetizers, sandwiches and entrees, some of which you will recognize from other Max locations. I would love to hear from someone who has tried the Pickle Wrapped Pastrami or the Cheeseburger Springroll! YUMMMM

Since you need a beverage to wash down your meal, you must peruse the wine/cocktail/beer list. Here are my personal recommendations:

Martini – “Ellsworth White Cosmo”
Beer – “Max’s No Name Pale Ale” – (brewed by local Hooker Brewing Co)
Beer #2 – Lagunitas IPA

Check out the “Spiked Shakes” too, a fun way to end your burger glutton-fest!

Burger places are a dime a dozen these days, but if you’re willing to spend an extra couple of bucks you will be well-rewarded at Max Burger. Stop reading this, grab your friends and head over!


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