First, it was the after-party for Chef vs. Chef and then, it was Bar Brawls and now, we just hang out at Max’s Social House because it’s our hangout — and it makes us feel like we’re at home.
Honestly though, if we did need an actual reason to visit, the time would be now, as the restaurant just launched a new menu. Since we must know the right people, we scored ourselves an invite to taste the new menu in it’s entirety, and left with our palate dancing in delight.
This is more like a seasonal change, as Chef Eric Baker does play with the menu quite a bit, but the dinner was also an introduction to Max’s Social House’s new craft cocktail menu created by mastermind Scott Clifford (okay, that changes frequently too) and to their new pastry chef, Rachel Vondell, who is also in charge of the pastries at Max’s Harvest (where she makes the most incredible fresh fried donuts). Needless to say, it will always be a night of adventure here, but don’t worry, as the staples on the menu like Soho Blend Burger and the Pimento Cheese Dip will remain.
So, what should you order off of the new menu? Here are our top picks for you.
- Star Fox & Slippery Toad do Mexico – Can I just say that Max’s Social House creates some of the best cocktails in the area? It’s that place, where you feel guilty ordering anything else — and the Star Fox & Slippery Toad do Mexico cocktail has to be our favorite on the new menu. It will remind you of the holiday season. Tequila (though, you’d never know it was in there), mulled meyer lemon, Averna and simple — coming right up.
- Walt’s Heirloom Tomatoes – We’ve always enjoyed Walt’s Farmhouse Tomatoes, so we were thrilled to see them on the menu. These red, juicy bites of deliciousness, now in the prime of season, were served with Humboldt Fog goat cheese, pickled shallots and Red Russian kale from Green Cay.
- Monkfish Pastrami Reuben – A reuben is not something that we typically order, but Chef Eric Baker may have converted us with his take on the classic — his Monkfish Pastrami ‘Reuben.’ Served on slices of marble rye from Old School Bakery, this ‘reuben’ was served with brusselkraut (to replace the sauerkraut), Russian dressing and pickled mustard seeds.
Baklava - Matzah Ball Ramen – For another play on a classic, you’ll have to check out the Matzah Ball Ramen. This hearty bowl made with corned beef, ramen noodles, bok choy, and schmalz is perfect for the curious diner and for those looking to slurp up some feel-good vibes.
- Desserts – There was a time when Max’s Social House didn’t have much of a dessert menu, but now, they’re excelling in this department. Thanks to their new pastry chef, Rachel Vondell. From a cool-you-down S’mores Ice Cream Sandwich made with graham cracker, chocolate and marshmallow to a flaky baklava that is crisp and tender, your taste buds will be singing sweet praises.
Max’s Social House is located at 116 NE 6th Avenue in Delray Beach.
This post first appeared on Florida Food & Farm.