If you’ve spent any time driving west on Atlantic Avenue, past the turnpike and toward the ever-expanding suburbs of Delray Beach, you know the vibe changes. It gets a little quieter, a little more "family-oriented," and—until about 2013—it was a bit of a culinary desert. Then came the Delray Marketplace. And with it, Burt & Max's Delray Beach.
Honestly, it's rare for a restaurant in South Florida to last over a decade without losing its soul or becoming a total tourist trap. But Burt & Max’s has managed to stay relevant. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see a table of golfers sharing a single slab of cypress wood bar and a family with toddlers in high chairs at the same time. It basically serves as the unofficial living room for the West Delray crowd.
What’s the Deal With the Name?
It’s not just two random guys. The "Burt" is Burt Rapoport, a third-generation restaurateur whose family literally ran kosher dairies in NYC for fifty years before he conquered the Florida scene. The "Max" refers to Dennis Max, another local legend. While they’ve both had their hands in dozens of concepts—think Henry’s or Max’s Grille—this specific spot was designed to be the "go-to" for locals who didn't want to fight for parking on Atlantic Avenue's downtown strip.
The design isn't your typical Florida stucco. We're talking thousands of pennies glued to the floor at the entrance (yes, actual pennies) and a wall of rock 'n' roll legends like Janis Joplin and Mick Jagger. It feels more like a cozy, industrial loft in Chicago than a suburban mall eatery.
The Food: New American Without the Pretense
You won’t find tiny portions or unpronounceable ingredients here. The menu is basically a Greatest Hits list of American comfort food, but with a slight twist.
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If you’re going for the first time, you have to try the Onion Soup Dumplings. They’re a local cult favorite. Imagine the flavor of a classic French Onion soup—sherry reduction, cave-aged Gruyère—packed into a delicate dumpling. It’s messy, it’s rich, and it’s $25. Pricey? Kinda. Worth it? Absolutely.
The brick oven is the heart of the kitchen. They churn out pizzas with that specific charred crust that only comes from high-heat wood firing. The mushroom pizza is a standout, though some locals swear by the Prime Special Blend Burger. It’s a $24 commitment, but they don’t mess around with the meat quality. If you want to go full "I’m not wearing my skinny jeans today," the Farmhouse Burger adds a fried egg, pecanwood bacon, and house-made BBQ sauce.
For the "health-conscious" (this is Florida, after all), the Vegan Power Bowl or the Asian Salad are actually substantial. They don't just give you a pile of iceberg and call it a day. The power bowl is loaded with roasted sweet potatoes, quinoa, and a citrus vinaigrette that actually has some zing.
The Happy Hour Situation
This is where Burt & Max's Delray Beach really earns its keep. In a town where a cocktail can easily set you back $18, their "Extended Happy Hour" is a lifesaver. It runs daily from opening until 6:30 PM.
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Pro Tip: Happy hour pricing is strictly for the bar and high-top tables. Don't try to sit in a booth and expect the discount; the servers are great, but they stick to the rules on that one.
The drink menu is surprisingly deep. The Rock & Rye Old Fashioned uses Slow & Low bourbon and a "Filthy" black cherry. It’s strong. One is usually enough to make the drive home (as a passenger!) feel a lot shorter. They also do a Watermelon Basil Martini that’s basically summer in a glass.
Why Do People Keep Coming Back?
It's the consistency. You know what you're getting. General Manager Steve “Buddha” Mann has been with the group for ages, and that "treat guests like they're in your home" philosophy actually trickles down to the staff. It's not uncommon to see the same waiters there for years, which is unheard of in the high-turnover world of South Florida hospitality.
They also have some of the most aggressive weekly specials in the area:
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- Mondays: 20% off the entire check if you mention "Love Delray."
- Taco Tuesdays: A solid deal with margaritas or draft beer.
- Wine Wednesdays: Half-off bottles of wine with an entree.
- Kids Eat Free: Usually Mon-Wed with an adult entree purchase (ages 12 and under).
The Real Talk: Any Downsides?
No place is perfect. Because it's in the Delray Marketplace, it can get insanely loud on Friday and Saturday nights. If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic whispered conversation, this probably isn't the spot. Also, the parking in the Marketplace can be a nightmare during peak cinema hours (there's an IMAX theater nearby), though they do offer an $8 valet if you’re over the hunt for a spot.
Some diners have noted that the more "complex" dishes, like the Mongolian Beef, can occasionally be a bit salty. Stick to the classics—the burgers, the pizzas, and the small plates—and you’re almost guaranteed a win.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
If you want the best experience at Burt & Max's Delray Beach, aim for a late Sunday brunch or an early weekday happy hour.
- Check the Calendar: They often have live music or "Yoga Brunch" events.
- Dog Owners Rejoice: They have a dog-friendly outdoor patio and even a "doggie menu." Your pup can literally get a grilled chicken breast or a burger patty while you eat.
- Reservations: Use OpenTable. Even on a Tuesday, this place can fill up with local retirees and families.
- The Brownie: Save room for the warm triple chocolate turtle brownie. It’s huge. Share it with three people.
Burt & Max's doesn't try to be the trendiest spot in Palm Beach County. It just tries to be the best version of a neighborhood bar and grille. It’s reliable, the drinks are stiff, and the onion soup dumplings are worth the hype.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
Check their official website for the current "Summer Steals" or seasonal promotions, as these change frequently. If you're planning a weekend visit, book your table at least 48 hours in advance through OpenTable to snag a spot in the fire pit lounge area.