Maxime’s: The vibe
South of the throngs of people crowding King West, the entrance to new restaurant Maxime’s is slightly hidden on Portland Street. Stepping inside, the illuminated, mesmerizing hallway is the first indication that Maxime’s isn’t here to blend in — she’s here to steal the show.
The bones of Scale Hospitality’s former concept, Shook are still here, but they’ve thoroughly transformed the décor and the vibe to create a sultry lounge, full of seductive red, gold and mirrors.
Nightly live DJs play vibey electronic music, while trippy visuals on floor-to-ceiling screens transfix guests. All of it compels diners to heat things up after — on the dance floor or elsewhere…
Maxime’s: The menu
Befitting the glamorous space, the menu at Maxime’s is all show-stoppers. Succulent seafood and juicy steaks share the spotlight, while plates of pasta wait in the wings.
Delicate tuna carpaccio is brought to life with zesty capers and onions, and a creamy truffle aioli. The light and crispy sea bass comes glistening in olive oil with a lemon to squeeze for a kick of citrus.
Steak savants will have a field day choosing between Canadian Prime, USDA Prime and plenty of wagyu. There’s no wrong choice — they all come aged for a minimum of 28 days, seasoned with house spice and perfectly tender.
Maxime’s: The drinks
Special occasions call for bottle service from the list of petit and full-size bottles. But if Friday night doesn’t mean throwing all your financial responsibilities to the wind, they offer more reasonably priced options, too. Maxime’s menu of martinis hits all the classics — vesper, French, lychee and espresso, to name a few.
The signature cocktails are familiar crowd-pleasers like the Hot & Bothered, a spicy margarita-esque drink with tequila, Cointreau, lime, agave, pineapple and cayenne. Maxime’s also shakes up the classics, like a boozy New York Sour with a red wine float.
There’s plenty of wine by the glass or bottle, if that’s more your speed.
Dinner and drinks for two: Around $200 before tax and tip.
