(415) 771-7300
601 Van Ness Ave
San Francisco,
CA
94102
37.7811
-122.4206
Neighborhoods: Civic Center, Northeast
What People Are Saying About Max's Opera Cafe
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short – This New York-inspired restaurant features singing waiters, many of whom are training for the stage at the nearby San Francisco Opera House. The fledgling vocalists lend a festive, entertaining air to the bustling dining room, which draws an eclectic assortment of out-of-towners and pre-theater diners. The straightforward deli menu features maximum portions--sandwiches stacked high with corned beef and pastrami, overflowing potted brisket of beef and big gooey desserts and sundaes.
05/01/09
The closest thing to a Kosher deli in No. Cal
by operagoer
I was born and raised in NYC, but have lived in Cal for 42 years. Aside from Cantor's in LA, Max's comes closest to a NY Kosher deli like the Stage deli on the west coast. For a time they had that crappy lean pastrami that was dry and tasteless. They finally got back to the real thing. There is no such thing as lean pastrami. If you want that crud go somewhere else. Max's makes no apologies for their style of food, generous helpings, varied menu, and fast service. If you vant romance go to Absinthe where you can get looked down on and sneered at or just ignored by the waiters if you aren't a wine expert.
- Pros: Has real fatty pastrami like the Stage deli in NY
- Cons: Always busy, but efficient
06/23/08
Forgettable
by boymeetswestcoast
Max's, an upscale diner, was just an average restaurant. It was close to our hotel, which made it a good choice. The food and service was just average. However, the giant mushroom appetizer was very good! The menu is versatile and the dress was mixed. Some people were in jeans, others in khakis. We were first seated in a booth by the bar, which was noisy, so we moved to a move private booth where we had an enjoyable family meal.
11/15/07
Horrendous service, and they nickle and dime you!
by patrickbad
Absolutely horrendous. I had to pay extra for potato salad and extra for a pickle. Im not cheap but, after paying 16.00 for a sandwich. I mean come how much does this stuff really cost. I also have complained to the mangement and they are rude and could care less. I use to like this place, but no more.
- Pros: none
- Cons: parking, service, prices
The Details on Max's Opera Cafe
When to Go:
This is a great place to go before the opera or the symphony. The singing waiters will definitely get you in the mood for the show.
The Extras:
For all the health-conscious diners and dieters, the menu also provides a list of choices that include low-fat and low-carb entrees, meals on-the-go and even desserts. Try healthy eats like the poached salmon remoulade or the dark chocolate decadence.
Know Before You Go:
Dine alone with ease. Rule #16 of "Max's Laws" calls for a meal on the house if your host asks the dreaded question, "Just one?"
Parking:
Park in the garage under the Opera House. Street parking can be tough.
Join Us on Facebook
Follow Us on Twitter