Maxine&#x27;s On Shine

"In operation for more than a decade, Maxine and Kirt Earhart's Colonialtown charmer is everyone's favorite neighborhood hangout. Crowds spill out in front during the weekend for brunch, thanks to a host of comforting dishes that soothe and satisfy. Think plates of fried green tomatoes, flaky crab cakes and of course, chicken and waffles. Dinner follows suit with such familiar yet flavorful dishes as a half-pound burger, or skillet lasagna, which is available with roasted vegetables instead of beef.There are good vibes all round. The décor is eclectic and bears a whimsical slant by way of bold colors, lots of artwork, a dark, sultry bar, as well as tightly packed tables. Interior accommodations are supplemented by ample outdoor seating." - Michelin Inspector

Maxine's on Shine

Orlando’s 38 Best Restaurants - Eater Miami

"A neighborhood restaurant in every sense, Maxine’s has been entertaining guests since 2012 thanks to the antics of owner/slam poet Kirt Earhart and his animal-print-loving chanteuse of a wife, Maxine. Both gleefully work the room (which looks more like a boudoir), making sure each and every one of their guests is having as much fun as they are. The menu is about as eclectic as the clientele, with everything from escargots en croute to cioppino to skillet lasagna. The parking lot has been converted to an outdoor seating area featuring private covered cabanas with fans, plants, and mosquito netting. The parking lot is now a permanently covered outdoor dining pavilion (with heaters for those chilly winter months)." - Faiyaz Kara

3 Courses for $40 During Orlando's Magical Dining Event

"In operation for more than a decade, Maxine and Kirt Earhart's Colonialtown charmer is everyone's favorite neighborhood hangout. Crowds spill out in front during the weekend for brunch, thanks to a host of comforting dishes that soothe and satisfy. Think plates of fried green tomatoes, flaky crab cakes and of course, chicken and waffles. Dinner follows suit with such familiar yet flavorful dishes as a half-pound burger, or skillet lasagna, which is available with roasted vegetables instead of beef. There are good vibes all round. The décor is eclectic and bears a whimsical slant by way of bold colors, lots of artwork, a dark, sultry bar, as well as tightly packed tables. Interior accommodations are supplemented by ample outdoor seating." - The MICHELIN Guide

21 Best Restaurants in Orlando, Florida | Condé Nast Traveler

@cntraveler

"This spot specializes in aa mix of comfort food and bistro classics—think fried green tomatoes, Key West crab cakes, pork chops with Bavarian sausage, lobster ravioli, burgers. Not really a place for dining light, but it's a very popular place for weekend brunch with a great little outdoor patio, too." - Terry Ward

The 21 Best Brunches in Orlando, 2021 - Eater Miami

"The city’s most boho of boîtes pairs its Southern-leaning brunch menu with dishes like fried chicken biscuit bowl, stout braised brisket omelet, seafood creole served over polenta, with plenty of live music and entertainment to keep the mood cheery and undeniably quirky. A visit from proprietors Kirt and Maxine Earhart is as likely as a refill (or two) of the mason jar mimosa. The “Rejuicination Brunch” is offered Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m." - Faiyaz Kara

Chelsea LeNoble

Google

Everything about this restaurant, from the top tier service to the jazzy vibe to the excellent food, is a delight. The hostess, wait staff, and owner all showered us with care and genuine interest in our experience. We were given a tour to decide where we wanted to sit and recommendations for things to do in the area after dinner. We picked a few appetizers, cocktails, and entrees. Everything came out quickly and was delicious. We had a nice high table on the patio surrounded by potted plants and where there was a good view of the sunset. The owner took time to visit our table, make sure that service was attentive and food to our liking, and he thanked us for choosing to spend our evening with them. It was such a lovely gesture, and you could tell everyone there takes great pride in their restaurant. The food was honestly so good that I forgot to take photos before the dish was gone! The wagyu carpaccio was probably the best I’ve had, with perfectly sliced beef, toast, arugula, and red mustard dressing. The skillet lasagna was also incredible! Everything was reasonably priced, especially for the quality and portions. We’ll definitely be back.

Eze- O

Google

Very cool place. Quiet location. Parking a little complicated The food is good, I can’t say really good. Bread bisques was a little tough, the meat very salty and very little vegetables The service was super good and atmosphere also great during the day

Ben Nevins

Google

Maxine’s on Shine is a delightful spot in Orlando, brimming with charm and character. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the service is exceptional our server made us feel right at home. I started my meal with the Caviar appetizer, which, while beautifully presented, didn’t quite hit the mark for me in terms of flavor. However, the main course more than made up for it. The Duck was tender and cooked to perfection, with a sauce that was rich and flavorful, though I found the accompanying stew a bit lacking in depth. To finish, I opted for the Key Lime Pie, a personal favorite, but it was unfortunately too tart for my taste, leaving me unable to finish it. Despite these small critiques, the overall experience was enjoyable, and I would certainly return to explore more of the menu. Maxine’s has a lot to offer, and I’m confident there are more gems to be discovered on their menu.

steve swederski

Google

First time at Maxine's. We went for Magical Dining, an Orlando restaurant event. Food was excellent, plenty of drink choices. Shout out to Steve for excellent service. Our table had a variety of appetizers: chowder, lobster roll, and caviar. Our entree choices were all steak, a mix of cooked temperatures that all came out perfect. Nice dessert followed. All had a wine pairing that was well chosen. Ample street parking around. Do make a reservation as this is a well attended restaurant.

Jim T

Google

What a cool place. Tom and Steve were great. Food was delicious. Can't wait to go again. Lobster eggs Benedict was wonderful.

Elaine Wang

Google

I recently visited Maxine's On Shine, a restaurant recommended by Michelin and known for its brunch offerings. The lobster omelet featured Maine lobster, but unfortunately, it was frozen, which affected the overall taste. The fried tomatoes and crab cake were just average, and the brisket was similarly unimpressive. On a positive note, the exterior decoration with its plant arrangements is charming and inviting. While the service was warm and welcoming, the food did not live up to Michelin standards. In my experience dining at other Michelin-recommended restaurants in the Greater Orlando area, none have disappointed me as much as this one. For a neighborhood restaurant, Maxine's might be acceptable, but it falls short of the Michelin mark. Update: One Day Later I spoke with the friend about my disappointment with the restaurant they recommended. It turns out that the restaurant changed its chef two months ago, which might explain the difference in quality.

Maria Arcuri

Google

I was looking for a place with fried green tomatoes on their brunch menu and stumbled on Maxines on Shine in Orlando, which has a scratch kitchen. We were greeted by the fabulous hostess and seated quickly, then our waitress Bri came over. Bri was by far the sweetest human being. We chatted about traveling. She was super helpful with the menu. I started with the warnin' in the mornin' bloody mary with all the fixings, which was super tasty. I had the fried green tomato benedict with a side of pimento. Everything from the huge fried green tomato to the spinach was flavored oh so perfect, and the pimento was the topping on the cake! He had the Lobster omlette, which had large chunks throughout and a side of the tastiest sausage gravy I've ever had. We had the pleasure to meet the owner Kirt to give a kudos to the whole team. He then sent out Chef Tom to meet us, and we had a great conversation. All and all amazing brunch experience! Can't wait to return to Orlando and back to Maxines!

Adam

Google

There are 5-star restaurants, and then there are 5-star restaurants. Maxine's was top-notch. The food was better than perfect. Hands down, the best lobster roll I have ever had, and red fish (special) was outstanding. Even the asparagus accompanying my wife's steak was cooked perfectly. Service was also really good. The only warning I give is that it can get a little hot, but they have fans and portable A/C's setup. Dress with light clothing.

Bill V.

Yelp

A great place food is amazing atmosphere so relaxing owners come out inter act with the customers

Alex D.

Yelp

What a fantastic little gem! Was looking for a quaint spot for a Sunday Brunch to bring my parents to celebrate their 52nd Anniversary and Maxine's On Shine did not disappoint. The service was top notch, the drinks and food were excellent, and the overall experience was so enjoyable. Thank you Kirt for such an amazing experience and for making the morning a special one for my folks. If you have not met Kirt, he is so personable and you can tell how passionate he is about caring for his clientele, strong mark of a great establishment. I'm from out of town but my folks had such a great time and are so excited about Maxine's, that they are already planning to return sometime soon for the dinner experience. My brother ordered Thee Burger and thoroughly enjoyed it. My Bloody Mary was so flavorful. I had the Lobster Omelette and loved every last scrumptious bite of it; talk about decadent with plenty of real claw and lump lobster meat plus Andouille sausage! Mom had the veggie omelette with egg whites and Dad had the biscuits and gravy, which we all could tell were made from scratch, like so much of their menu. It's so apparent the amount of love and craft Maxine and Kirt have put into their menu as well as the establishment itself. The icing on the cake was the champagne toast, so delicious with a little drop of amaretto mixed in with the bubbly, we just had to get another round. The espresso martinis at the end were on point. My other brother showed up a little later with his family and dog, and Kirt and the staff were so accommodating and made it into such a pleasant experience for us all. If you have never been to Maxine's On Shine, I highly encourage you to check them out. I doubt you will be disappointed. Reservations recommended. Personally, I can't wait to return the next time I come back into town. I will definitely be back! Thank you Kirt, Steve behind the bar, and the entire service team for such a wonderful brunch. You guys are the best!

Rafael R.

Yelp

This place is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood in DT Orlando. The atmosphere in and out are terrific and the staff is attentive, polite, and committed to being present without being over bearing. That's the great part. The not so great part unfortunately was the food. I'd been wanting to try this place for a long time and magical dining was the perfect excuse. Ordered a glass of Sangria. it was pictured with fruit and expected to be refreshing but the wine was a bit dry and no fruit as pictured. We requested wine pairing but never noticed that it did not come but that's okay. Starter was the Green Turtle Cay Conch Chowder and the Lobster Roll Half - House Roll. The soup was okay but was a bit over seasoned but it be just be that way. The lobster roll was delicious, cool, light and tasty. The main course was 10oz NY Strip Steak and the Chef's selection Wahoo with seafood stuffed manicotti over red tomato sauces. The steak tasted like meat. There was no seasoning to speak of and the temp was right and the meat was tender it just lacked flavor and I probably could have had some steak sauce (but a good steak wouldn't need that). The mashed and asparagus were also okay but this was nothing special, a let down. The Wahoo Chefs special was over cooked and the green was extremely salty. The center of the fish was more flaky and delicate but too chewy. The manicotti was not hot, likely plated before the rest of the meal was ready. Desert. Kahlua Chocolate Mousse and Key Lime Pie. The pie was good though the crust had too much moisture so it had trouble retaining its structure. The mousse was okay, nothing really special with bits of chocolate mixed in that threw it off since a great mousse is a silky smooth texture enveloping the palate. Wife did not finish it. Towards the end of the meal the waiter notice the sangria not really touched and replaced the drink. Final thoughts: 2/5 for food; service 4/5 (a little slow but could have been busier than appeared); and atmosphere 5/5. We really wanted to love this place but left felling under whelmed and disappointed. Also, this is not a chain and though we could have asked to redo items or changed we didn't because honestly, we just wanted a relaxed and uneventful time. We may give it a chance in the future but likely not for a good while. This experience was really surprising given the high reviews. Maybe it was an off night.

Juan P.

Yelp

My girlfriend and I decided to visit Maxine's On Shine for the first time as part of Magical Dining and as part of our date night.We wanted to try something new, and I'm glad we did because the customer service here was outstanding by far some of the best I've experienced in any restaurant. The atmosphere was also very unique and made the experience even more enjoyable. We started with the Wine Lover's Board, which we both agreed was our favorite. It came with fruits, nuts, salami, and three different types of cheese. I was surprised to find that the blue cheese was one of the best I've ever tasted, even though I usually don't like it. My girlfriend ordered the Caviar Blini, Maxine's Lobster Ravioli, Berries Romanoff, and added the Hamptons Sangria. If you're a seafood lover, you'll likely enjoy the Caviar Blini and Lobster Ravioli, as they both have a strong, fishy taste. They were good, but not exactly what we expected. The Berries Romanoff was very sweet, though a bit sour, and the Sangria was just okay, it got watered down pretty quickly, which made it less enjoyable. I had the Lobster Roll, NY Strip Steak, and Biscotti with Vin Santo del Chianti. The Lobster Roll was my favorite of the three course meal, it was tasty and came with some homemade fries. Unfortunately, the NY Strip Steak was a letdown. It arrived cold, even though the plate was warm, and it was under seasoned. I was very hungry by the time it came out, so I didn't mention it until after I finished. When I told the server, she immediately spoke to the manager, who apologized and explained that the kitchen was backed up. To my surprise, they offered to make a new steak for me to take home, which I appreciated. The Biscotti was pretty standard, but the Vin Santo del Chianti paired with it was an acquired taste that grew on me the more I had it. Getting to the restaurant was easy, but parking can be tricky since it's in the middle of a neighborhood. Overall, I'm not sure if we'd return for dinner, but we've heard great things about their brunch, so we might give that a try in the future. I would have rated this place a 3, but the exceptional customer service bumped it up to a 4.

Vikki B.

Yelp

I love this place. I used to come here when it was an Italian restaurant way back in the 90s. I love what Maxine has done with it. Food is OK. Service is outstanding. It's intimate yet inviting I always meet the most interesting people when I'm here. Don't take my word for it. Come see for yourself.

Elizabeth S.

Yelp

We made a reservation for our anniversary dinner and I'm so glad we finally made it to this restaurant. Not only was the service AMAZING but the owner and her husband took time to welcome us and wish us a happy anniversary. They had plenty of local artwork featured which was very cool. The food was incredible too. Everything came out in a timely manner and freshly made. We also spoke to one of the chefs who told us more about each dish. All in all, you don't find restaurants like this anymore. Everyone made us feel so comfortable that we were happy to spend our money to support this restaurant. This is a hidden gem for sure. We will gladly be back soon!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND.

Scott R.

Yelp

Had a terrific brunch here on Sunday. Plan to go back again for dinner. The crab cake may be the best one I've ever had. And the lobster Benedict was excellent. Also enjoyed their special non alcoholic beverages.

Dora M.

Yelp

Great little hidden gem! From the ambiance to the food and drinks! Great customer service

Gabriela S.

Yelp

The food at Maxine's was absolutely phenomenal, with every dish we tried being a standout. So good we forgot to take photos. No complaints at all when it came to the meals--everything was a solid 5/5. Our favorites were the rich and flavorful duck, the indulgent lobster roll, and the perfectly cooked lobster ravioli. However, the service was quite slow, and it was uncomfortably hot inside the restaurant, which did affect the overall atmosphere. Despite that, we still had a good experience, and the quality of the food definitely made up for the minor inconveniences. Would recommend!

Kassie C.

Yelp

It's been years since I revisited Maxine on SHEIN I wasn't impressed the first time however, we revisited for magical dining and I was blown out of the water by the food. The steak was cooked to perfection. The mashed potatoes were amazing. I enjoyed all of the cuisine they have made my friend ordered a chefs menu plate, which had a lamb and a fillet. Everything is packed to perfection. I was so happy however, I did not enjoy the cocktails. They weren't the best. I think they were just too Sweet and we're missing some components. Our service that was amazing. I loved how she checked in on us. Everything came out quickly. This place is charming. It hasn't changed and I love how they stay true to their decoration.

Amanda W.

Yelp

Ok. My husband said this restaurant was voted #5 best brunch spots in Orlando. So I was really excited! We made a reservation and was seated promptly upon arrival. The place is super cute and they have indoor and outdoor seating. The hostess and wait staff were super friendly. This seems like a cool place but the food was not good at all. I ordered the steak and eggs. It came with steak, eggs, potatoes and a biscuit. Biscuit = this was delicious! It was soft and fluffy Potatoes = this was also good! It had the right amount of salt and tasted like really good fries. Steak= the steak had ZERO seasoning. Like NONE! And it tasted old or something. Or maybe like it was freezer burned. I'm not sure but it was not good. Also, they didn't let the steak rest so my eggs were swimming in the grease and liquid front the steak, and so was my biscuit! Eggs = I only ate a few because they were drowning in grease and liquid from the steak. These were just eggs, no salt or pepper, just eggs...

Christien B.

Yelp

This place is a true staple and unique gem of Orlando. I can't believe it took me so long to check it out!! My first visit was for brunch to celebrate a friend. Without a doubt, make a reservation! It was fairly packed but we were able to be sat quickly and greeted by what felt like everyone working - including Kirt and Maxine! Everyone was super friendly and took their time with us in answering questions and taking pics to make sure we had a great experience. We each chose different eggs benedicts to be able to share and all were delicious! And of course the mimosas were wonderful. I was so busy having fun that I forgot to take pics but definitely will be back!!

Maria A.

Yelp

Jorge P.

Yelp

Great, cool, funky vibe. Delicious food and very kind service. Cannot wait to go back.

Maya B.

Yelp

Ambiance is 5 stars I love the decor and the vibe. Service was great too since it was bit chilly outside they even turned a space heater on for me. The crab cake and green tomatoes were good as well. The brisket was a bit of a let down. It tasted like something I put in my slow cooker. The eggs Benedict with lobster was great huge pieces of lobster. Totally worth it.

Alessandra C.

Yelp

After reading so many great reviews and seeing it in the Michelin Guide, my expectations were high and I thought I would be giving it 5 stars. I am, however, awarding it 4 stars, mainly due to the great service, the eclectic decor, and very tasty crab cakes. Being a seafood fan, I had to order their famous crab cakes, which were crispy, flavorful, and light, and a side salad, which, unfortunately, was much more a fruit salad than a savory salad (which I expected). The fruit/kale + nuts proportion was 3 to 1 (fruits: raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, granny smith, pineapple). My choice of drink was a glass of La Crema pinot gris. Everything paired well, service was EXCELLENT and Mr. Maxine came to greet us. I liked the eclectic and quirky decor with rotating art pieces from local artists.

Erin G.

Yelp

The phrase "auld lang syne" can be interpreted in practice as "old times, especially times fondly remembered" according to Dictionary.com. Since it was the end of 2023, I joined good friends to celebrate. Great food with a wonderful host is the perfect way to toast the new year. Their menu continues to surprise and delight and the staff employed by Kirt and Maxine are pros that never miss a beat. It was my friend's first visit to Maxine's and they particularly enjoyed their interaction with wordsmith Kirt. The chalice of sangria comes in a fun pint glass and the eggs Benedict selections are out of this world. We gobbled them, - sorry no pictures. We look forward to Maxine's new seating options in 2024.

Peachtra C.

Yelp

I made reservations for Maxine's on Shine for a party of 10 and they were able to accommodate us for an early morning slot as soon as they opened. I made sure that our party was on time. We immediately begin ordering since you only have an hour and a half to enjoy brunch under the reservation. I ordered a egg nog cocktail from the holiday menu . I then ordered the crab cakes which were a nice size and they were delicious. For my meal I ordered the breakfast burger which was huge and it came with fries . I asked for a sauce to dip my fries in and the waiter suggested the Jalapeño aioli sauce which was good. I didn't realize till I got the check that there was a charge for the sauce . If I would have known I would have kept the leftover sauce , it had already been thrown out . I took half of my burger to go because I was full. The customer service was awesome , we were seated in the private like seating area for larger parties and we really enjoyed being able to eat and enjoy time together and catch up. We didn't feel rushed at all while finishing up eating. The ambiance was unique and fun. The parking if not there early seems like it would be task to find street parking. I would definitely come back here.

Kathryn B.

Yelp

This is a great spot, with very creatively done outside seating, nice live entertainment, great food, and a nice wine selection. We had a great dinner & a fun time! Maxine often walks around chatting with patrons:)

Mundae K.

Yelp

What a wonderful little spot. I love Maxine's on Shine SO much!!! If you are looking for a fun little spot with lots of warmth and quirky decor, you are sure to love this local favorite! The memu is the perfect size with really, delicious, creative food! It has that thoughtful comfort food feel that this southern food establishment truly understands. It was my birthday, and they delivered a complementary glass of Champagne. I don't particularly care for sparkling wine/champagne, but there's is SPECIAL. They add a dash of magic that makes it taste just wonderful!! If you like fun spots with great food where you're sure to get GREAT service and feel special - make a reservation today!!!!

Angie M.

Yelp

What's not to love about Maxine's. The owners are super warm and friendly. The place is very artsy and a little peculiar at times but they have rotating art pieces from local artists. The food is always delicious, fresh and tasty. Can never go wrong with their staples which is what I get almost every time. I always go for brunch but heard dinner is just as good. Will probably check it this year!

Craig L.

Yelp

Another great meal at Maxine's. Never disappoints! Ash and the rest of the servers were wonderful. And the food is always on point. Today I had the steak - delicious and perfectly prepared. And I had the crab cake/fried green tomato combo appetizer. Always a good meal.

Steven F.

Yelp

I actually visit Maxine during Magical Dining but never got around of posting my review. It is a good idea to call ahead and make reservations or you may be out of luck. When I arrived i was greeting by one of the owners, Maxine herself. It was a delight to meet her and she welcome me and myself like she already knew us. We were given the option of seating inside or outside, since it was a pleasant evening, we chose to seat outside in the patio area. We didn't have to wait long before our waitress came and provided excellent option that fit both my wife and myself dietary requirements. (She is gluten-free and I like food ;))

Shirley S.

Yelp

What a terrific atmosphere for a casual evening with friends. The food is slightly eclectic but scrumptious. The presentation of the appetizers ( fried green tomatoes and caviar crepes) as well as the entrees ( stuffed trout, Maxine's chicken and zucchini zoodles with vegetarian meatballs) teased our taste buds with their deliciousness. We can't wait to go back.

Carmen G.

Yelp

The service was amazing. Our waitress went above and beyond what would be considered good service. I wish I could remember her name to give her acknowledgement. The drinks and the food were both tasty. We started with the cheese cigars. Nothing like a mozzarella stick. It was light and airy. My table had chicken and waffles/ fgt benedict/braised brisket. Every plate was tasty and the drinks perfectly made. The patio outside was welcoming and decorated for Christmas. I'm looking forward to my next visit!

J W.

Yelp

What a wonderful time we had this evening at Maxine's on Shine! We celebrated a dear friend's birthday and the staff went above and beyond making it an unforgettable occasion. Amy was our wonderful waitress. Knowledgeable about the entire menu and very friendly. After the meal, Kirt came by and graced us with a toast of drinks and words. The birthday girl was so elated with the special attention. Maxine's on Shine is the place to go for every day meals and drinks, but especially to make the special occasion extra special.

Mark S.

Yelp

Great dinner in this neighborhood gem - took me a long time to come, but I'd love to be back. We dined on the eve of a hurricane and appreciated the welcoming staff and hosts. Corkage said $15 on menu but I was charged $20, so that was the only negative (still reasonable, but I called and confirmed the $15 price the day of the reservation). Hosts are a lot of fun and servers were enthusiastic and terrific. Seafood ravioli is highly recommended.

Thomas P.

Yelp

Ok, I'm the minority but we didn't like Maxine's. Don't send hate mail! First, the service was top notch. Everyone was friendly and attentive. The decor was amazing. We went around Halloween and tons of spooks and thrills mixed in with the normal eclectic decor. We started with the fried green tomatoes which were super thick and had a substantial bite to them. Plus the dipping sauce was great. So far an amazing start to the meal. But the entrees let us both down. The fried chicken was breast meat and it was dry, dry, dry. Yeah the sausage gravy helped but there's no excuse for dry fried chicken. And yeah, it's breast meat, but I've had and made juice fried cutlet before many times. This was a miss. I had the seasonal salad pictured here. I mean, it was good. Basically a fruit salad with nuts and some greens with 5 really nice shrimp on it. Was it worth $25 (est)? Not even close. If that salad as $15 I would have rated it higher. So, 2 misses on entrees and too expensive to boot. Sadly I won't be back Maxine. Sorry! I know everyone else loves you.

Erin G.

Yelp

My girlfriends and I came for magical dining and we're not disappointed. We sat outside and even on a warm day in August it was comfortable. All of the food was delicious and we plan on returning for their regular menu. The service was just just fine, nothing too special.

Kristin B.

Yelp

Neighborhood dining that never disappoints. Especially love the owners and staff, plus the new outside dining area allows for a little more space and a little less noise. The seafood special was delicious. The lasagna is always the best. Wine, beer, and cocktail prices are affordable and makes this an extra-desirable neighborhood evening outing.

Ida R.

Yelp

Found this gem searching for a fun brunch place and it was so great, the service was really good, the food was delicious, the Bloody Mary was the perfect one for me, everyone was having such a great time, and it was such a pleasure to meet Maxine, her husband and the beautiful pup. We are definitely going back soon!

Amanda M.

Yelp

We had a fun time at this eclectic restaurant! The magical dining experience offered beautiful, creative and delicious dishes with thoughtful service. We went for my husband's birthday and the staff was extra considerate. Maxine came and checked on us multiple times, she is such a bright light. We are enjoyed caviar appetizers, the lobster roll is excellent, the caprese salad could benefit from a little balsamic. The entrees included a crispy duck, savory NY strip, and a modified Maxine's chicken Marsala (they took off the mushrooms and tomatoes per our request). The key lime pie and kalhua chocolate mouse are made in house and divine.

Amber S.

Yelp

Magical dining stop. This was my first time trying the restaurant, though it'd been on my list for a while. The restaurant is small but fun inside, with lots of art. The staff was super friendly and attentive. Definitely try the Arugula salad and chocolate mousse.

Juliemar R.

Yelp

I've heard of this establishment for years and never quite got the opportunity to eat there until now. We went for magical dining month which is one of my favorite times of the year! Right off the bat. I'd like to mention that this is in a residential area. There is no parking lot and there is only street parking. There's no other restaurant surrounding it and it looks like they are in the process of adding permanent outdoor seating which isn't a bad thing, considering it is a very small and cozy place. When you walk in, it's dimly lit and has a ton of art on the walls. The staff is very friendly and our server was amazing. I loved that their magical dining menu had a lot of the menu items that they appeared to be known for. Even though the menu states that there is a two hour limit for your reservation, I never felt rushed and had a really good experience. The food tasted amazing and the portions are generous. I ended up taking leftovers home and eating them the next day, and they were so good! We actually met Maxine and she seems really nice! I look forward to coming back for their brunch, which I believe is what I've heard as being the best. I'd recommend making reservations, as this place gets very busy, and as mentioned before is small and quaint.

Dana S.

Yelp

We have probably all been there and the food was quite good in the past - and they have the Michelin nod too. LET ME TELL YOU - You need to get a reservation and go back. You need to do Magical Dining this year. You also need to check out happy hour. You need to see their new menu come alive. Why? The people and service are amazing. Maxine Earhart and Kirt are wonderful and have created such an inclusive and eclectic place. But, most of all, I LOVE what their new Michelin chef, Fabiano Olmo, is doing there. It's literally a game changer for me. I have always had a wonderful experience there but I am sensitive to salt and some of the items were too salty to me in the past. I still loved the experience but limited my visits. We had a long conversation last night both with Chef Fabiano and Kirt because we were absolutely floored by both the magical dining menu and the food. They spoke about keeping some of their previous chef's recipes but also giving new life, more offerings and regularly changing up the menu to be more creative and interesting to keep their customers coming back more often. So, here is what we chose with all of the wine pairings: Caviar and potato chips - what a great way to introduce folks to caviar in a fun and light way. Mushroom and Brie soup - this was incredible - rich and tasty. I am going to crave this. The NY Strip - I was hesitant to get this because I usually only eat steak about once or twice a year... DEAR LORD - I seriously couldn't believe how good this was and a massive portion I couldn't finish. I think there was some magic seasoning on this. It was slightly undercooked but I didn't mind one bit. I got the sauce on the side. It needed nothing. And the mashed potatoes - creamy, buttery heaven. I told Kirt and Chef this absolutely rivals A Land Remembered - my favorite place for steak at a MUCH higher price point. Fun fact - Kirt used to work at Del Friscos many years ago and he knows his steak. Trout Gravlax - wow!!! My husband didn't want to share until I bribed him with some of my dish (which he finished lol). The seasoning and preparation were absolutely perfect. I'd come back for both of these for sure! For dessert, they had a unique spin! We had the traditional Key lime - absolutely as expected and yummy. We chose the 'drinkable dessert' as the other as we were tapped out on food (we had skipped lunch and we finished it). So, since we had selected the tasting, we had a newer port and one aged 10 years. It was fun to compare. I'd love to see wine, cocktails or port as an option over one or two of the dessert course. The wine pairing were spot on but having been to Vinia and others, I'd love to see more unique wines that I can't easily get (such as La Crema). We talked about how glad we were that we went there again. The menu brought us back and the new offerings, chef, service and atmosphere will keep us coming - now more often .

Yirel M.

Yelp

A stellar experience during magical dining. Three courses with wine pairings couldn't have been more perfect. 1st course mushroom bisque was so velvety rich. Beet salad was light and refreshing, with some savory goat cheese bites throughout. Entree courses of lamb and squid ink linguine and gnocchi carbonara with shrimp had great flavors and large portions. Desserts tiramisu and chocolate mousse cup was the perfect sweet to end the evening.

Dolly S.

Yelp

Good food, good service, fun atmosphere. This time we went during Magical dinning and had a good time. The wait staff is very attentive. The food came out correct and fairly quick.

Jensine C.

Yelp

Loved the experience here at Maxine's. My husband and I haven't been here since our first date over 6 years ago and got to celebrate Valentine's Day last night. The service was top notch and the staff are so friendly. We love the food we ordered starting with the appetizers of the cheese sticks with that delicious cheese blend filling and the lump crab cakes full of crab deliciousness. I really enjoyed my lobster ravioli with huge scallops! My husband enjoyed his chicken Parmesan that was chin and crispy. We had to take half of the portion home since we were just so full. Can't wait to come back, maybe for brunch.

Kristen V.

Yelp

I was really excited to try this place as it was highly rated, but left very disappointed. I'm not sure what the hype is, so maybe we ordered the wrong things or went at the wrong time? Maybe brunch is better? The place was eclectic and the servers were great hence the 2 stars, but the food was subpar. We started off with fried green tomatoes that weren't seasoned well. The fruit for the salad was fresh, but the dressing was very sour and had to be mixed in so the kale was rough. It would've been better if the kale was either massaged or pre-mixed with dressing even 15-20 minutes before served to get it softer and easier to eat. The crab cakes tasted like they were cooked in old oil, which left such a rancid smell that I couldn't even eat half of one. The swordfish special was too salty, but the pesto potatoes were nice.

Ashley O.

Yelp

This would be a 3.5 stars for me. The food was very good and the servers were pleasant, but I've never felt more rushed than I did tonight- on a stormy and mild Wednesday night. The lack of parking takes away some appeal but as someone who lived in a city for a long time, it's not that big of a deal. The interior was very cute and eclectic. It had a cozy vibe but was very stifling inside unless you sat near one of the fans. Fortunately we were seated by one so we could cool off a bit before our three courses arrived. Our group did magical dining and the wine pairings. For appetizers, we tried all of them. The best two were the vegan chili and the mushroom soup. The beets were standard and the caviar was very salty and fishy - not a super quality option but understandable for the price. We tried the steak and scallops for the entrees. Both were delicious! As for the desserts, the key lime pie paired beautifully with the moscato and the chocolate mousse was a hit with our leftover entree cabernet. The service is where everything fell wildly apart. We finished our appetizers but one of our group was still trying her last bites when her wine was replaced with the entree wine and we were already being served. She had to rush her last bites to make room for the entree. When it came to dessert, I was aggressively trying to push my food into it's box while they shoved my dessert under the box I was holding with my leftovers. I couldn't even finish putting my entree into a container before I was forced to make room for my dessert. At this time we were only seated for 45 minutes as they were shoving desserts into our places. 45 minutes for four people to enjoy drinks, appetizers, and entrees before they feel rushed to hurry the dessert and leave. If it were a busy Friday or Saturday night, I would let that all slide because I understand the turnover process. But when the menu says we are allotted up to two hours but we are being rushed out after 45 minutes, I lose a lot of respect for the experience. We were there for a total of one hour and 15 minutes. The last 15 were just finishing drinks and paying. One hour for four people to drink and eat three courses. Overall the food was delicious and the wine pairings were great, but the service made me feel cheap and unappreciated.

Nat R.

Yelp

Came for the Magical Dining, opted to add the wine pairing. It was great! The ambiance is also lovely and chill. Would absolutely come back to try out their regular menu.

Cheryl V.

Yelp

I've been wanting to try this place for quite some time. I've heard some good reviews, and was very excited to see what all the hype was about. I started a foodie group with a few other ladies and this is the spot we picked to try on a Friday, late morning. I will say that the hostess and the server were outstanding. The inside is extremely eclectic and has a very cool vibe. That's where three stars come from. Also, the Sangria was REALLY tasty! There were 4 of us, and not a one of us enjoyed our entree. The chicken and waffles were really bad. The ladies said the chicken, although presented beautifully, was very dry and hard to eat. The maple syrup was thin and tasteless. I had the quiche Lorraine, which was cold. It might've actually tasted pretty good if it was at least warm. The kale salad that came with it was pretty good, but needed more dressing on it. The other gal had the brie, shrimp and bacon omelette. She said it was tasteless too, and the omelette was rubbery. Overall thoughts on Maxine's is that while the presentation of the food is beautiful, and the overall vibe is pretty darn cool, the food itself is definitely not tasty. Our new foodie group is on a mission to try a different place every couple of weeks. This is a one and done for us.

Lisa W.

Yelp

Maxine's on Shine is a hidden gem that captures the essence of delightful dining. The brunch offerings are a culinary masterpiece, with each dish showcasing creativity and flavor. From the savory Eggs Benedict to the chicken and waffles, Maxine's brunch menu is a symphony of tastes that never fails to impress. Don't forget to add fried green tomatoes to start. The charming atmosphere, coupled with the warm hospitality, creates an experience that lingers long after the last bite. Maxine's on Shine is a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking a blend of exquisite flavors and inviting ambiance

Mel M.

Yelp

The service is absolutely impeccable. The food is divine. The cocktails range from delightfully refreshing to complex and flavorful. The wine menu is impressive, and I highly recommend trying a few wines. Every bite of food, every sip of beverage is exquisite. And you're treated with such warmth by staff. The decor is beautiful and intriguing -- I spot something new and interesting every visit. This spot is, hands down, the best in downtown Orlando. Even just popping in for a cocktail is wonderful. I do not know the owners. I'm not getting paid for this review. I'm so serious. This place is amazing.

Chris H.

Yelp

Food is fabulous ... Kirt and Maxine go the extra mile. I had the biscuits and gravy and crab cakes for Sunday brunch. Maxine's gives these two, sometimes-mundane dishes, a fabulous flare and taste!!! Crab cake sauce is excellent!!! Bravo!!!

Blair M.

Yelp

The food was alright but the portions were off. We ordered the chicken and waffles and were given half of a waffle and over cooked chicken. The crab cakes were good but the fried green tomatoes were too thick, making them watery and somewhat flavourless to eat. We were also given two tomatoes for an absurd price, by the way. Towards the end, the male owner came over and introduced himself and gave us a complimentary champagne (delicious) and a cute speech regarding our recent marriage.

Wanqi D.

Yelp

This was my second time at Maxine's but first time for brunch. It was my friend's first time ever coming to Maxine's and we were both so happy with our orders! I love the décore of Maxine's and feels like it creates this one of a kind ambiance. They also have a super cute patio space but we opened for indoor seating because Florida heat was just too much that day. I couldn't decide between the chicken biscuit and gravy or the brisket but our waiter had said the brisket was a huge winner so of course, I opted for that one but got a side of just biscuits and gravy with cheese. Lucky for me, I had received the last bit of the brisket! My friend got the special of the day: crab cake Benedict. My brisket was just absolutely delicious, as were the sides it came with (potato wedges, veggies, biscuit, and scrambled eggs). I think because I got the last bit of brisket, it had been soaking up the juices so it was a bit too salty but it balanced out well with the eggs and potatoes (I also just love salt)! The biscuits and gravy was mouth watering and even taken home as left overs, still tasted amazing. The poached eggs on the Benedict had the perfect jiggle with amazing flavor as well! We both also got a watermelon mimosa which we weren't a huge fan of. It seemed to lack the watermelon flavor. Our server was also very attentive and gave great recommendations! Aside from the mimosa (which I think we just picked the wrong juice), this place is a must try in downtown!

Alex O.

Yelp

This was a very cute restaurant and a nice neighborhood. Sat outside and we had a lovely time. The food is good and the service was great.

Elizabeth A.

Yelp

Food, service, ambiance all excellent. Staff is super friendly. Love the neighborhood feel.

Maxine's on Shine

Orlando’s 38 Best Restaurants - Eater Miami

3 Courses for $40 During Orlando's Magical Dining Event

"In operation for more than a decade, Maxine and Kirt Earhart's Colonialtown charmer is everyone's favorite neighborhood hangout. Crowds spill out in front during the weekend for brunch, thanks to a host of comforting dishes that soothe and satisfy. Think plates of fried green tomatoes, flaky crab cakes and of course, chicken and waffles. Dinner follows suit with such familiar yet flavorful dishes as a half-pound burger, or skillet lasagna, which is available with roasted vegetables instead of beef. There are good vibes all round. The décor is eclectic and bears a whimsical slant by way of bold colors, lots of artwork, a dark, sultry bar, as well as tightly packed tables. Interior accommodations are supplemented by ample outdoor seating." - The MICHELIN Guide

21 Best Restaurants in Orlando, Florida | Condé Nast Traveler

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The 21 Best Brunches in Orlando, 2021 - Eater Miami