I visited Chez Max recently for the first time and it went straight to my Dublin top ten! We were in a group and were seated in the lovely upstairs terrace, where the atmosphere created by the fairy lights, trees and comfortable seating was really relaxing. The French menu was nice and varied. I had the frogs legs in garlic butter to start followed by sea trout, both of which were delciious. Other favourites were the french onion soup and the steak which was really tender and accompanied by a fantastic bearnaise sauce. Service was also top notch and all in the group were very impressed.

This is a very nice French restaurant. I had escargots to start followed by chicken forestier. Both were delicious and accompanied by two excellent wines, white for the snails and red for the chicken. The music and ambience is very attractive and welcoming which for someone who often dines alone is quite important.

I would definitely recommend this restaurant. This was my third visit to this restaurant. There were three of us and we all tried something new. We had the onion soup, smoked chicken salad and the goats cheese pastry. We were all very satisfied with what we had, it was my first time to have a chicken salad with pears and it was very nice! For main course, two of us had bavette (with blue cheese and pepper sauce), and the other had rabbit. Again we all enjoyed it. For dessert I had the strawberry tart, my fiance had creme brule and the other person had the apple tart. Overall, I enjoyed this restaurant and will return, so as I can keep trying out some more French dishes!! The atmosphere was buzzing, the food was delicious and I look forward to the next time I return.

I really loved this french restaurant in Dublin. The atmosphere is really relaxing and lovelly. The staff pay attention to every singol detail of your dinner there and the food is really magnificent. My girlfriend and I choose escargot and fried frog's legs as starter and they were absolutelly delicious but a bit havy cause a lot of garlic butter. Food is accompained by a really good choice of wines. I definitelly will go back again

Very disappointing. We arrived to an empty restaurant and were very quickly reminded that we had to give the table back by 8.30. Whilst still reading the menus we were very quickly asked if we had chosen. Our waitress seemed miffed when one of our party said they didnt want dressing with their fish. I complained that my fish (which i didnt finish) was dry and very overcooked the waitress said she would tell Chef - there was no apology for the badly cooked dish. The French Onion soup was good as was the wine.

Been here 4 - 5 times for lunch. Efficient and friendly service .. mostly French staff. Interesting menu but a little limited at lunchtime (I've never been for dinner). The boeuf bourguignon and the sea bass are both good. The service is quick enough for a lunch. Coffee & dessert and the bill soon adds up to a little more than a lunch is worth. All in all, quite nice, but I find Chez Max in Palace St a little more charming.

I came here for lunch with a friend and was very impressed. The staff were brilliant and the service was quick despite it being very busy. I had the Moules-frites which I thoroughly enjoyed. We had our coffee on the terrace which is lovely. Can't wait to go back again.

Been here twice now and both were very pleasant experiences. Good spot.

Spent an evening in this restaurant. Already knew and liked the Chez Max (Dublin castle) however I didn't appreciate the Baggot street one as much. Although eating outside on the terrace was nice, the service could have been a lot better, long waiting and not really friendly staff. The food was good but nothing exceptionnal but the price paid for it was ok.

Dipped in here for lunch with a friend because I'd heard that they had a nice covered outdoor seating area that would counter the humidity but protect from the rain. Both of us were in a rush and ordered immediately - both steak frites. Very good portions and came with a very good pepper sauce on the side. The steak was strip loin and was very tasty. One downside was the price - €19.95 for steak & chips is a bit rich when you can get a two course lunch in may nearby establishments. The food is constantly good though as it is in Castle street.

I went to this restaurant with a large group of friends. It's a lovely spot for a group but also for a romantic meal. The food was absolutely fantastic. One of my friends ordered the frogs legs to see what they were like & adored them. I had Foie Gras to start & was not disappointed then had Hake for my main which was lovely & had a lovely combination of vegetables with it, think it was on a bed of potato with cauliflower it in it? Anway, it tasted divine. I had Creme brulee for dessert & it was lovely. Some of my friends ordered another typical french dessert recommended by one of our group who is french, it had meringue in it. Everyone loved the food here without exception. Very french! Excellent. Hats off to the chef.

Have eaten here before in the evening but went here with a friend for lunch last week. We sat out the back upstairs in the smoking area and as the weather was quite good, we could have been in a restaurant abroad. The atmosphere was excellent, the food and portion size were very good. As I am lactose intolerant my choices for starters were very limited...I could have had French onion soup without the cheese-coated crouton or a pissaldiere. I went for the latter and while it was tasty, I felt there was just too much onion on it. I have tasted it in France so it is not that I don't know what the dish is meant ot be like. For main course I had the seafood salad - which was a sizeable portion but I ordered frites/chips with this. When the meal was brought to the table my frites were forgotten. I mentioned it and about 5 minutes later they were brought piping hot to the table. The value for the two of us was very good...

went to this restaurant for the first time and the food was very tasty, except the beef bourguignon was a little salty. The service was very plesant and it was like being back in france. i good place for a night out, but go later in the evening as the atmosphere builds and adds to the food

I had the roasted duck and a creme brulee, it was fabulous! very good food and lovely place desserts are good value very good night!

A group of 6 of us went here on Friday night thinking we could avail of the early bird however it's not actually available on Friday nights. It was very quiet at 6pm however later on in the evening when it filled up there was quite a good buzz. We were sitting upstairs in the covered outside area which was nice as they had plenty of gas heaters. On the positive side, in terms of price, it's quite good value although all 6 of us felt the food was average. I had the chicken rillette to start which was quite bland. 2 friends had the smoked chicken salad, which they both said was disappointing. Another had the frogs legs (which everybody tried) but unfortunately they were so smothered in garlic butter that nobody could actually taste the meat. For mains I had the beef bourguignon which was tasty; the meat was lovely and tender but it was much too rich and I could only manage to eat about half. Other friends had duck, pork and chicken dishes which they all described as ok. The service wasn't great; our waiter was pleasant but not at all knowledgeable about the dishes which is a pet hate of mine! It was also a bit slow considering the restaurant wasn't that busy. 12.5% service charge was automatically added on as we were a party of 6. We had a fun night but ultimately the food was average and with so many great offers out there at the moment I wouldn't return to Chez Max.

Visited Chez Max, last Tuesday for lunch...Definitely RECOMMENDED! We had for a starter the amazing, delicious ''Aumonière De Chavignol-Goats cheese wrapped in filo pastry on a bed of salad'' and Salmon as for main course. Both dishes were exquisite. Great value and the staff is really friendly. Cant wait for the next visit ;)

Chez max in my new favourite lunch time spot. The staff are always friendly and by no means over bearing. Lunch ranges from tartines and salads to a full main. On my last visit I had the smoked chicken and pear salad. Staff friendly no problem getting dressings on the side or leaving something out. Lovely for under €8. My friend had the smoked salmon tartine, there was plenty of smoked salmon on two slices of bread with cream cheese and a side salad -very tasty. Not usual a creme brulee fan we shared this and it was lovely. The place always seems packed at lunch time but service is quick so I have not had to wait for a table yet. This place has a great buzz about it.

Three of us got the early bird on a Monday. It was empty when we arrived (Hence the 3,5 for atmosphere) but really nice and cozy with a friendly waitress who was helpful and efficient. I had the filo pastry wrapped goats cheese and the others had the pate and the onion soup. The onion soup was a mile ahead, as good as I've ever had in France. The pate was also good, a country style one with the only complaint is that I prefer a stronger pate which this wasn't. That of course is a matter of preference and they really have to cater for the usual. The Goats cheese in filo pastry was.... Goats cheese in filo pastry... cooked perfectly and all that but a silly mistake ordering this. It was as it sounds. Nice but a little unimpressive as compared to the other starters. For the mains they both had the beef Bourguignon and I had the chicken. The chicken was juicy and tender but yet well cooked, the sauce creamy and foursome. The Beef was the best I've tasted, the meat crumbling, the veg well cooked but not soft and the juice well flavored and tasty. The one complaint was the potatoes were served on the side rather then in the stew which isn't the biggest complaint... Overall well worth the money and will defo be going back to avail of the early bird again.

Lovely french brasserie with genuine food and warm atmosphere. Friendly personnel to complete a nice experience.

Had a very pleasant meal here on a busy Saturday night. Didn't have a reservation but we were accomodated at the tables in the bar. The staff were friendly and available anytime we were looking for attention (although this sounds obvious I often seem to have trouble attracting the attention of waiters in Dublin!). I had the roast venison which was very tasty and G had the skirt steak and bearnaise sauce which she informs me was the nicest she's ever had - why don't we see more of this cut in Irish restaurants?! We had decided to skip starters so there was room for dessert - Tarte aux Fraises and Creme Brulèe - both very nice. Good quality French food, reasonable prices - bill came to €60 - we'll be back :)

Came here on Valentine's night having heard a good recommendation from a friend and wasn't disappointed. The food is delicious and very good value. We shared a starter of goat's cheese in a filo parcel which I followed with a main of salmon darne with mussels and prawns in a white wine sauce served on a bed of creamy mash - exceptional. My partner had a deliciously tender rabbit leg, each dish cost about €16, very reasonable given the quality. We accompanied the meal with a fantastic bottle of French Riesling which I could highly recommend. The service on the night was friendly and efficient without being over-bearing, which is just the way I like it. Total bill came to €80 including tip, and all in all we were thoroughly happy with all aspects of the evening.

Very disappointing experience. There recently for a birthday evening with friends. Service was distant, infrequent and mechanical. Food was very average, I had the steak which was very tough and only ended up eating half of it. At the price I paid I would expect top quality meat which is available else where in the city. Wines were nice which I would expect given their price. The staff just didnt seem to care. I found the setting grubby, cold and uninviting. The cheese plate was the highlight of the evening which doesnt say much. I eat out very frequently and will certainly not be returning here as there are far better restaurants within a stones throw in Dublin city centre

Love this restaurant, regularly go here for lunch. The closest thing you'll find to an authentic French cafe/brasserie in Dublin. Great decor, feels really French but not too kitsch. Great food at good value. Love the Croque Madame.

I went here recently for a celebration, I found the food to be quite heavy, the waitress spilled sauce on My Mother's dress told her not to tell the other staff as it was her first day, I found two hairs in my dessert this was after I had taken a bite...needless to say I didnt finish it. Nobody particularly enjoyed the desserts and I didn't eat much, I had heard good things about the other chez max so I was dissappointed. A waste of money.

For a coffee shop this is first-rate. It had a lovely cozy atmosphere with a real wood burning fire in the cafe on a cold wet autumn day. The staff are lovely and it was good value with a croissant and an americano costing 3.50. I will be back!

There were four of us for dinner and although the starters were great when they arrived, we waitied for 45 minutes first. The mains were another 35 minutes which seemed a little long however we all thought the main courses were very good. I had the brill and the bisque that accompanied it was very tasty. The resturant could have done with some air conditioning given that it's situated in the basement because the room got very warm.I was dissapointed with the mini cheese board as it involved only two slices from a slection and instead of crackers I was served the same french bread that we began the meal with!.The overall value was good and I would go again.

Went for an early bird with a friend. 20 euro for 2 courses. I had the goats cheese to start, and the moules frites for mains. The portion of mussles was very large, could barely finish them! will definatley be back.

Ultimately I prefer Chez Max at Dublin Castle....simply because I have had two or three really good dates with my girlfriend at very points over the years. I love the menu and the atmosphere. Baggot St. Chez Max follows up closely though - the quality of food is there...the mussels, for example, are simple and very effective! The atmosphere is good and they accommodate big groups well, which is a big plus for a gang of friends for example. Thumbs up all round.

Had a group dinner at this restaurant last night, we ordered off the early bird set menu. Its good value at €19.99 for 2 courses, there are 3 choices for each course. I went for the French Onion Soup (of course!) and the beef and ham bourguignon. The onion soup was excellent, very hearty with plenty of cheese and croutons, I was a little disappointed with the stew it was extremely salty, however the beef was tender and the gravy was rich! This a small restaurant and it feels homely, if a little cramped. Great espresso and good service made the evening enjoyable; however I’m not sure I would go back in a hurry. The wine menu is expensive so be careful….

This is one of the best hidden secrets in Dublin especially in the summer! One Sat 5 ladies & I were in search ia sunny spot for lunch and a galss of vino! Somebody suggested ChexMax. We got seats on the terrace, it was perfect and nice umbrealls protecting us from too much sun. Most of the girls had moules & frites and loved it. I had beef ... it was nice but I felt my choice was limited. 1 or 2 more options on the menu would be perfect!! Service was great too and a real frech feel. Je reviendrai!

I really enjoyed the experience chez max..we were upstairs at the terrace..we had escagorts to share as starter, then a lovely bavette + chips, boeuf bourgignon et chicken a la provencale...and a creme brulee to share..+ a red bottle of wine..total was 90 euros..i thought it was good value for the quality and service received..i will defo come back..

Myself an seven friends recently ate at Chez Max as a mini reunion. Since we're all graduates, we availed of the early bird menu. It was excellent value for money at €19 for two courses. The decor and atmosphere are reminscent of many a parisian bistro and service was very good. I had the onion soup to start and the mussels as a main. Both were delicious. So much so, in fact that I couldn't resist dessert and ordered the creme brulee, which was equally yummy! Well worth a visit!

This place never disappoints. The food is great, as is the wine selection (even though the latter is a bit expensive). The service and the atmosphere are proper French, and you can stay on and sip wine long after dinner is over.

Looking at the scores I've assigned to Chez Max it seems a little harsh compared to others, but I find it difficult to justify giving more. I'll start with the positives: the staff were friendly and genuinely french, certainly a bonus! Also the food itself was good too, and while I wouldn't usually be a fan of pate in general, the pork / venison offering is certainly worth a try! I found the moules frites a little bland for my taste, and the fries were overdone and soggy (if they french can't get them right, who can!) The seating inside is a little cramped making it difficult to have a private conversation, wouldn't recommend it for a quiet "It's not you it's me" chat, but totally would for a small group. Overall a pleasant experience.

A proper french classic bistro love this place simple food can be a hit and miss at times but forgivable great service love the decor and the wines and frequent as much as I can at lunchtime esp in the garden terrace

I visited Chez Max recently with my father and brother, we had no reservation but they had no trouble giving us a table. The atmosphere is wonderful, we were greeted by a lovely french woman at the door and our waitress was French also - a nice thing to find in a French restaurant. There was lovely music and a pleasant buzz around the place. the menu was stylised with cartoons and old French adverts, which made it look a bit cluttered, I struggled to find some of the sections. The service was quick, I enjoyed the French onion soup as a starter, the paté my companion had was authentically rustic, served with nice crunchy bread. I had a delicious duck and blackberry main course with potato. The duck was cooked to perfection and the sauce was fantastically tart. My companions both had steak with pepper sauce, the steaks arrived as ordered - rare, and properly rare, almost blue to the centre. it literally melted in the mouth. Accompanying chips were moreish. We did not have dessert, just coffee, which was fine. The value for money is good taking into consideration the location, service and atmosphere. I would give it an overall 4.5/5 stars.

Where to start. Walked down through this tiny downstairs restaurant and up to my table on the outside terrace. It was wonderful. Relaxing, warm and a great buzz about it. I love French food so my expectations where high. The staff where welcoming and helpful. We had two classics for starters , French Onion Soup and frogs legs in garlic butter.The soup was lovely although i think if the onions had of been reduced a bit longer i would have got a better dept of flavour. The frogs legs served with salad where delicious and light. Beef Tongue and a rump of lamb followed. The tongue was cooked perfectly and melted in the mouth. The lamb on the other hand was a disaster. Thinly sliced, it was a bit too pink for my liking and then i tried to cut it. Even with a steak knife i could not cut the chewy meat. The nicest thing on the plate was the carrot! It was delicious. Dessert although stated homemade on the menu was pretty average. I was so disapointed as the place an atmosphere was great, the food well some good and some bad. Adding to that the pricey wine list , im sure sure if i would give it a second chance.

I often go in here if im looking for a substantial lunch but on this occasion i went in for dinner to take advantage of the sunny weather in its fantastic outdoor terrace. The lunch menu is a tad bit restrictive to be honest but the dinner menu has far more choice. I went for the steak frites and it was cooked perfectly. My girlfriend had the mussels which she really enjoyed. I had the lemon and meringue curd for dessert while my girlfriend had the strawberry tart - both very vert tasty indeed. The outdoor terrace is the main draw here although its a bit of shame the best area is a smoking zone as most people out there do smoke and it does sometimes overwhelm the food - we were sitting downwind from a cigar smoker and surrounded by cigarrette smoke which was a bit annoying. Regardless the food is always of good standard and if they added a bit of variety to the menu (specials or the odd change throughout the year) then this would be a real winner. As it is it is a very good choice for a casual dinner and at reasonable enough price and is a real winner on a sunny day.

Popped in without knowing anything about here. It was a Saturday night around 7:30 with no reservation made. However a table was found for us and we were well looked after. It's a deceptive place, nooks and crannies abound. Nice enough athmosphere but we were out at the front, I'd guess it gets better as you venture further into the restaurant. We both had a main meal each, I had the Duck which was really good, good flavour and well cooked. My partner had the Steak, which was excellent, and a very decent portion. We shared a Creme Brulee...it was amazing. Service was very good, efficent, friendly and no rushing us out. The food is good value - high quality, cooked well, decent portions. However what lets the place down is the price of the wine. It is way too expensive for what's been offered, that's a shame. All in all though we will be back.

Had visited Chez Max near the Castle and was not terribly impressed but was looking forward to some French cuisine. Nice atmosphere, good service and friendly staff. We started with goats cheese which was good and the terrine which was too chilled to know if it was good or not. I know they have to keep the food fresh but if it is overly chilled you cannot taste the food. We both had moules et frites. The frites were very good and plenty of them but the moules and sauce were bland. While the wine list is extensive it is a bit pricey. We had an Alsacian pinot gris which was excellent. But there are no wines under €22 – with the recession still biting it just might be the decider to go out or stay in. I will go back and try some of the other dishes.

I went for dinner with my partner. Quite liked the atmosphere (relaxed) although listening to French "chansons" for a couple of hours...so so. Food is a mixed bag. Gratin of scallops was bland, steak was v. tough, but homemade pate and venison were lovely, as were desserts (creme brulee & lemon meringue). Would go back but not as a preferred choice. Very friendly staff (would have given 5 stars, but 2 of the courses were wrong - I did get the correct items after pointing it out, no problem).

Was here on a Thursday evening with a pal of mine. We didn't have a reservation and just came in on spec. There was no problem with them accommodating us, but that said, there were plenty of people to create an atmoshphere. Neither of us had started, but we both had main course and desert. The food was lovely, I had a steak and my pal had chicken. The wine list was comprehensive, although there isn't a lot available on the lower price scale. The service was good and we were attended to promptly and efficiently. I have been here before for lunch on a Saturday, seated in the outdoor terrace, which is lovely and feels very 'continental', but this evening we were indoors and it was cozy and atmospheric. I am sure we will be back. Price wise it was pretty average.

I have visited both Chez Max (the one by Dublin Castle and the one in Baggot Steet) several times and my experiences have always been fantastic. My last visit was as good as ever. From the starters section I chose Frog legs, one my favourite starters and they were sublime. Delicate flavor with a hint of garlic. My boyfriend went for the roast quail and loved it. As main I chose confit du canard. It was beautiful, perfectly cooked, full of flavours and the lentils really added to the dish. Boyfriend had the steak with lovely chips and a pepper sauce. Although full and satisfied we went for desserts...the chocolate cake and the lemon tart were both beautiful. All the above with some Gigondas. It was the perfect evening. I like the informal atmosphere and the deco and everytime I have an opportunity I end up here. I consider it good food without pretensions. Traditional French cuisine in a laid back environment.

I'd been to the Chez Max near Dublin castle and was looking forward to seeing what the Baggot street branch was like becuase my one fault with the Palace Street restaurant is it's a bit tiny. The restaurant was full though and we hadn't booked so we had to sit up on a bench which wasn't ideal. We ordered the pate to start which came with a really nice side salad with delicious vinaigrrette and cornichons which are, in my opinion, essential with pate. I had the skirt steak and fries and it was perfectly cooked. The place has a lovely smoking garden too which is a bonus you can eat outside AND get lung cancer! I'd definitly go back - it's really good value and lovely atmosphere and very authentic French food.

This is a great place to eat. The food is gorgeous and very French! I had the onion soup followed by the moules frites and both dishes were absolutely beautiful.

This was my first time to visit this restaurant and I am not sure whether I will go back. The french onion soup is to die for but the rest of the menu does exactly what it says on the tin and is a bit lifeless. While everything is fresh and well presented there is something missing from the whole experience which I just couldn't identify. As a non smoker the constant opening of the garden door was a complete pain letting in both smoke and cold air at regular intervals. Maybe this works in the summer but on dark winter evenings it is the last thing you need.

We dined at Chez Max on Baggot St just before Christmas, and, while I am seldom moved to comment online, I have enjoyed the original restaurant at the gates of Dublin Castle probably weekly for a number of years, having worked nearby, and was curious as to whether Max could replicate his winning formula elsewhere. I would recommend trying the Baggot St venue for its extended menu and generous terrace and (weather permitting) garden. Portions are healthy sizes, both starters and mains, the service, for a French restaurant, is reasonable, and, while on the number of occasions there, we were two and the place was busy, there was no effort to rush us off the table for a quick turnover. Recommendations: Bavette et Frites, aka Steak & Chips, while plundering the decent wine list! Also, hats off to the welcoming yet delightfully informal maitre-d who looked after us.

I had really enjoyed Chez Max at Dublin Castle last year, so my boyfriend and I went to Baggot St., at Christmas. The atmosphere was very buzzy being Christmas and the services was great. I hate saying it because everything else was great, but the most important element, the food was a complete disappointment. We got the pate and snails to start. The pate was fine, but I have had much better. The snails were totally bland and for the expense a real let down, again we have had much better. For mains I had the duck, again there was no great flavour, just a lot of saltiness! My boyfriend had the lamb, which he was told would be served pink, which he was more than happy with, but when it arrived it was more medium than pink and again there was no great flavour and the portion for the price was very small. We didn’t even stay for dessert and decided to go home instead. The bread that came at the start of the meal was lovely, we should have just order that!

I loved the original Chez Max when I ate there over a year ago, and I wasn't disappointed with this one either when I ate here before Christmas. We had a work night out and got teh early bird. The atmosphere was busy and the room has excellent decor, this restaurant also has one of the nicest gardens/terraces in Dublin! The Onion Soup to start wasn't as flavoursome as I remembered from last time but still good. I had the chicken fillet (one of my least favourite cuts of meat) with mushroom sauce for mains and was pleasantly surprised at how tasty it was. Some cheese to finish went down well with the end of our wine. Service was good but I would fault the Early Bird menu for only having a choice of 3 mains. Also, there is not much wime to choose from for under €30 a bottle. I would still return for a guaranteed good quality meal.

We eat out for lunch on Christmas Eve every year and over the years we have had awful experiences in reasonable restaurants so we were pleasantly surprised to find that the food, atmosphere and service were extremely good in Chez Max. We will definitely return on a regular day if this is the service we get on Christmas Eve. The food was very good and served without too much of a delay (has been a big issue for us on Christmas Eve) and the atmosphere was perfect for the occasion.

I very rarely give full marks but I cannot find any reason not to for Chez Max Baggot St. They deliver exactly what they say they will and do it very well and at an extremely good price. We had our lad's Christmas lunch here and everyone left very happy - plenty of food, wine, beer and well balanced service. If you want a quick, good value lunch they cater for that or if you want an excellent long lunch they do this exceptionally well also. Great French onion soup, stellar croque madame, moules frites, steak frites, nice salads, cheese / meat platters and solid specials. Wine list is pretty fair for City Centre and the service is very French - good attention to detail, efficient and not in your face friendly. Cool atmosphere, one of the few restaurants in Dublin where I have gone for lunch and stayed for dinner.

I went here for lunch on a weekday, just two of us. Had main courses only and bottle of sparking water. It was all fine, not a mind blowing experience, but the service was good, the food was ok, I probably had a slightly higher expectation after what my work colleagues had said, the place had a bit of a buzz about it. I would return.

The mixed cheese and meat platter was delicious and the small size more than enough for two people to share as a starter, so much so that I was quite full by the time the mains came. Duck confit was alright, not as crisp as I would like and the lentils were a small bit tastless. The boeuf bourgignon (?) was very ggod, hearty and filling for a cold winter night. Dessert selection not up to much so we skipped, also partly because the atmosphere was a little lacking.

Lovely place with atmospher of a old French bistrot. However, food is really average and wines are good but not cheap. Since my last visit, they lost the service quality.If you like good French food is not the place to be. Forgotten the platters wich are on offense to the French cuisine. The creme brule is not bad and the French cheese quite good.

I went here with a group of Friend on Friday night. We had booked and were told at the time of booking that the table needed to be back by 9pm (our booking was for 7pm). When we arrived our table was not ready and we were left standing for 20-30 mins. Once seated, the food was lovely. I had the Onion Soup (really good) followed by the Venison. I can't fault the food, and the service was good, but it felt kinda rushed. We did finish by 9, but that could have had something to do with being felt rushed. Thats the only downside for a generally good experience. Will definitely go back!

Excellent meal here on a Friday night. Smoked chicken starter was delicious. The main of beef bourguignon was sublime. Wines a little pricey considering the food is terrific value but we had a a lovely red with dinner all the same. Will deffo return.

I had a lovely meal here with my boyfriend. The staff were great! The food was good, but I felt it was a bit bland. For the amount we paid, I would have expected a bit more. My boyfriend had the musscles though, which he loved. It was a nice restaurant, but it wouldn't be somewhere i would go regulary.

Went here with a group of 8 friends. The food was OK but not spectacular and portions were small. Some of the group ordered chocolate cake for dessert and it was so hard that when they went to break some off with a spoon, it shot off the plate. When we told a member of staff that the cake was really hard and cold, she said it was meant to be like that and offered a knife to help cut it! I saw her blowtorching the cake later for someone else, so maybe it was still frozen??? 2 people ordered creme brulee and 1 was nice, but the other was burnt on top. When it was pointed out it was removed and no apology or refund offered. Not great service in my opinion. The bill was high and I was forced to pay for service charge which I felt was substandard. Not recommended.

Attend Chez Max with 4 friends.Surroundings and atmosphere lovely. Food for the most part was nice - but I was disappointed in both my starters and main course. For Starter I had the scallops gratin - for 11.50 - two of us had this and neither of us could find many scallops. I dont believe there was even 2 scallops in the tiny dish. For my main course I had the duck, the duck itself was delicious but on a bed of pureed carrott and crisy brown potatoe it was all too much the same colour and was not apetitising looking. My friends had the skate, chicken, cod all which were delicious - I looked on enviously as my meal looked/tasted dull.Wine list was on the pricey side as well. Lovely coffees to finish with. A nice meal but some courses a little disappointing. But would give it another chance as nice layout/atmosphere.

Me and the hubby went her for dinner yesterday. I had the early bird dinner with the Goats Cheese for starter and the Boef Bourginion for main. They were both fantastic. My husband had the onion soup for starter which was also divine. He had the steak and chips with cheese sauce for main and found it fine. He said he had better steaks but it was nice enough. We both found the portion sizes really good. The staff were all very nice and we were not let wanting anything. The tables in the area we were in where a little bit close together but as we had no one directly beside us it didn't bother us. The price of the dinner, a bottle of wine one dessert and two coffees was very reasonable and I would definitely recommend it.

I attended the menu pages night held here at this great restaurant, the setting at the back of this venue where we ate alfresco was just perfect, to accompany the great food, atmosphere and people. I started with the french onion soup and its got to be among the best available in Dublin, for main I had the beef french stew it was gorgeous the beef melted in the mouth, to finnish I had the chocolate cake again it did not disappoint. I have to say the staff and owner of Chez Max are the most helpful courteous, witty people in the restaurant business I have had the pleasure to meet. The MENU PAGES night again delivered a great night of amazing food, great people ( lots of wine ) all for 50 euro. If you want to try a different approach to meeting people and enjoy great food and wine in Dublin's top restaurants and great value to boot, then go for it book yourself in for the next night, ill see ye there.

If only there were more restaurants in Dublin like this! I had the French Onion Soup and the Steak and Chips and they were as good as any I've tasted in Dublin. The price is very reasonable and the portions generous. The chocolate cake for dessert also went down well with our party. There is a lovely heated terrace upstairs where we enjoyed a few tasty beers after our meal and our French hosts were very attentive to us all night. It was a bit dead for a Friday night but I think business will soon pick up when word of this gem gets around. Will be back again soon.

We ate here last evening at about 6.30pm. We were just looking for a quick bite to eat which wasn’t bar food! Having read previous reviews we decided to give this a go – the previous reviews were not wrong! The room itself is lovely, even though it is in a basement there is nothing dark or dingy about it. The menu layout is unusual – it’s done like a French newspaper! The wines are all French and divided but region. We chose a bottle of 2008 Domaine de Allegrets Cotes de Duras sauvignon for €25. This is a lovely fruity light wine. We weren’t having starters so went straight to the mains. We had Duck Breast with Carrot Puree, Crispy Potato and orange sauce (18.50) and Roast Cod with Courgette Flan and Tomato Sauce (21.00). There are no ‘sides’ as such on the menu so we did not order any. The mains come as described with no veg or potato accompaniment. This didn’t bother us last night as were we in for a ‘quick’ meal, but when I go back I will order some side dishes as the portion sizes are not huge. That said, the cod was perfectly cooked and the tomato sauce was flavoursome without overpowering the fish. The Courgette Flan was a very tasty courgette omelette. The duck breast was perfectly cooked to medium and the carrot puree nicely seasoned. My one criticism however is that a bit too much of the fat is removed from the duck which also removes some of the flavour. For dessert we chose the Strawberry Tarte and the Mixed Berry mousse. The tarte is a pastry base filled with a sort of crème anglaise and topped with beautiful strawberries. The Mixed berry mousse was light, as a mousse should be, and very tasty – not too sweet. All desserts are 5.50. We will definitely be back to try a starter, main + dessert.

3 of us had lunch here. Two had French onion soup which was very satisfying. I had a tartine with smoked salmon and cream cheese which was very filling. A bottle of a very nice rosé complimented the meal. We will definitely be back.

Went for lunch here last week - great. Had been for dinner a couple of months ago and had been very impressed. For lunch I had the small mixed platter - really good choices of cheese - best pate I've ever tasted - just a really tasty plate of food. Could be a bit more generous with the bread but that was the only complaint. My companion had Moules and frites - and he too was impressed. Good coffee to finish off a lovely lunch and leaving one looking forward to a return visit.

I went for a quick lunch in Chez Max and was so impressed!! I had a goats cheese salad and it was so lovely. Quite good value too. The atmosphere was perfect and you do feel you are in a small French Restaurant in France! The service was great. I can't wait to go back for dinner!

I wouldn't normally go for a French themed restaurant, but I have heard good thing about the other Chez Max (off Dame Street). From the moment we arrived we were looked after by the friendly staff. The early bird special is why we came, but when I saw everything else I couldn't resist. Frogs Legs and French Onion Soup to start with, both were top quality. I had the braised rabbit's leg and it was cooked to perfection, my girlfriend had the mussels in creamy sauce and chips, again loads of food, it was great. A nice Crème Brûlée finished off a perfect mid-week evening. Highly recommend eating here.

Great spot. Went there on a recommmendation and was well impressed. For the moment we got there the staff were great. Very relaxed informal atmosphere, attentive and very friendly staff. Food was good with a nice variation and prices not too bad. Good selection of wines of a really cool menu!. We were a group pf 5 seated in a seperate booth away from the rest of the restaurant which was fine but will definitely be back to get a table in the main area. Just noticed they've got a garden area too. Also saw on menu that they offer a post theatre platter and 2 glasses of wine for €27 12am - 2am (I think). Great idea. Overall really nice experience and will be back.

Mrs Fatbloke and I went there recently for a birthday celebration. We arrived at around 3.15pm just in time to catch the chef before the kitchens closed at half past. We stayed there till around 6.30pm and didn't really know where the time had gone. This place is basically a piece of France which has been plonked in the middle of Dublin. The food is expertly prepared and very tasty, the atmosphere is so 'French' you might find yourself having flashbacks and emerging back into Dublin completely disorientated. Service was very good (we were the only ones eating a meal but the cafe was steadily serving customers) and no bad surprise with the bill. Two main courses, one dessert, a bottle of wine, two kir royales a pot of tea and an espresso for around €93.

This is a great place for a romantic dinner. We were seated in the corner by a window looking into the outside serving area and we loved the ambience. The room was dim lit and it felt as if we had stepped into a little bistro in Paris. The food is great if you are into French food. We had duck, steak, quail, fois gras and chocolate cake. All dished were lovely.

Went here for a bite to eat after work and was not disappointed.This place is a little gem with great outdoor seating area.Loved everything about this place the food ,service and surroundings.

We thought we would eat here having enjoyed our meal so much in Chez Max in Palace Street. We definitely were not disappointed - the food and the service were great and Chez Max definitely offers great value for money!! Either restaurant is well worth a visit!!!

Had dinner here last night. We were sitting on the terrace which was fantastic. The food was great, staff friendly and service was very fast. The only exception was Pork Chop and Mash which was swimming in its bowl (far too sauce). Look forward to going back.

Enjoyed a delicious after work bite in Chez Max last week. Frogs legs were juicy and tender, steak was full of flavour and cooked perfectly rare as requested and the frites were light and crisp. Staff were polite if a little under pressure. If you closed your eyes you could be on the left bank in Paris!

After an afternoon pottering around town we were looking for somewhere chilled out for a bite to eat. Town was surprisingly busy and there seemed to be no free tables anywhere. My bf works off Baggot St so suggested we stroll down and see if there was room in Chez Max. We got a lovely table in the oustide terrace and it was hard to believe that we were in the centre of Dublin. It was like an oasis of calm! Plenty of francophones was a good sign of what was to come. To start with we had frogs legs and French onion soup - the frogs legs were in an absolutely divine garlicky butter which I would have happily eaten all on its own. The legs themselves were not as meaty as I have had them in France but were nicely cooked and very tasty. I couldn't even get a mouthful of soup from my bf - he loved it! For main course we had steak-frites and duck. The duck was gorgeous and even though it wasn't as pink as I would have liked the accompaniments were gorgeous and really complemented the meat. The steak was massive and cooked exactly as requested - and came with gorgeous chips and green beans. We followed this up with 2 crème brulees - my absolute favourite dessert - which did not dissappoint. All this together with an excellent bottle of red came to €90. It was such a relaxing venue, the staff were charming and helpful - and was the best place to finish off a lovely day. We will definitely be back - and I'd recommend to anyone!

Brilliant french bistro with no doubt the best garden in dublin.

Early bird here is fantastic. We were here with a group of girls and everything was lovely. french onion soup, goats cheese starter, mussels and frites, chicken dish all delicious. the restaurant is so lovely and has that paris feel down to a t. desserts, also very typically french and delicious but we split a chocolate torte and an apple dessert between us, too full after our delicious main courses. great meal and brilliant value on the early bird and i'll definitely be back soon

had lunch here real tasty simple food divine croque monsieur & perfectly cooked fish, love the service smiley & french cant get any better than that!

I had a lunch here, but I am looking forward to come back for a dinner. The food we ate was delicious, only there was not too much choice given it was lunch time. The most of all I missed foie gras that is available only on the dinner menu. I'll definitely be back.

All I can say is I wish this was open 7 days a week, such a pity it's closed on Sundays. I love it!

Went there with a group of friends on a Friday night and had a great meal. I think we were the last people to leave the restaurant. I really liked my steak although I was disappointed with a service as it took us some time to order our food and drinks.

What a pleasant Saturday lunch with a friend. Now, there was a problem finding the place even if I knew exactly where I was going. Bar for a small black board, there is nothing indicating there is a gastronomic haven in that Baggot Street basement. Possibly better posting might help... Anyhow, I was remotely controlled by my friend and arrived in. Nice atmosphere, surprisingly light. Decent Kir for aperitiff. Starter: roast quail, nothing short of wonderful. Thanks be to God it is allowed to eat birds with fingers... Main: smoked chicken salad with almonds, caramelised pears and gorgonzola mayonnaise - I was enthralled by this combination of tastes so much so I had to try some version of it at home the very next week! We shared a perfect apple tart, coffee was good, the sun was shining, the white we chose by glass was perfect and we didn't break the bank: 60 euros in total. Definitely coming back.

I came here with a party of five on a friday night. The restaurants was a little difficult to find but after giving them a quick ring we were able to find it. The atmosphere was perfect, very relaxed and warm. Service was quick very helpful and always with a smile. The food was excellent, I had the duck which was probably the best i have tasted. To top it off the final bill was very reasonable. Would definitely return again

Ate here on a Saturday evening a few weeks ago! My friend had been to Chez Max near Dublin castle and was quite impressed so we thought we would give this place a try. First of all when approaching the restaurant from upper Baggot st it can be quite difficult to locate as it is a basement resturant with no signing from this end of the street! Service was not that great, atmosphere was fine but the tables are very small and close together and if you have to eat in the bar area I could imagine the tall stools would be very uncomfortable. Meat & Cheese platter was very nice! My friend had the scallops and although she enjoyed it the scallops were few and far between and very small. I had a steak for my main course and understand that the waitress thought it was a crime than I wanted it done with no blood, that being said what arrived was a really small burned piece of meat! All in all I wold say this place is overpriced.

I absolutely loved this restaurant from the minute I walked through the door. I found the service exceptional and the food was delicious. I would recommend the mussels & steak with bearnaise sauce. I will definitely return.

Have eaten here twice on work dinners. Both times lovely. First time they were a little shakey with wine menu knowledge and we were directed towards a red wine that didn't really live up to expectations. Had frogs legs to share, a little greasy but nice. 2 very good steaks cooked medium rare as requested. Didn't stretch to desserts but they looked good on the table next to us. Second time there my collegue had the vegetarian option and he just said it was "nice" but didn't seem bowled over. I opted for the steak again and certainly wasn't disapointed. They got the temperature spot on, which for some reason seems to escape some chefs. Good home made chips too and a delicious blue cheese sauce. Again we skipped dessert but had 2 good espressos. Our only complaint was that the staff obviously wanted to go home (and we didn't feel it was that late... 11.15?) as they started disinfecting the floors all around us. The smell of bleech & chemicals was horrific. But all in all its a good find.. . nice atmosphere. Will be back, maybe just a little earlier so as to avoid the cleaning duties!

Having eaten in fantastic french restaurants in France and around the world my expectations were very high for Chez Max. The restaurant is very cozy and had availability eventhough we went there on a friday night without a reservation. The staff took care of our wet coats and umbrellas, which was very nice as we didn't have to sit with the wet stuff at our table. Menu was very good; not too long but still had plenty of lovely choices. We all found our favorite. Portion size was very good as well; not too small as they often are in France. Food was very delicious, not absolute TOP class, but very delicious. No faults. One could notice that some of the waiters were probably very new, there was a little bit of confusion with drinks & some rushing around, but that would not stop us from going there again to have a lovely evening. ...and last but not least; the red wine was heavenly!

I have been haunting this place since it opened. I love the atmosphere and the food. The plat du jour at 9.50 is my usual lunch selection - and I never regret it. A really lovely place whether for lunch or dinner - and it'll only get better when the terrace opens for the summer.

Visited Chez Max - for a 40th Birthday dinner, I had been in the sister restaurant in Palace Street and was delighted to go to Baggot Street, atmosphere very airy bright, French !!! Service was very very good, and food of course excellent and well on a par with the prices ..... The best thing we had to vacate the table by 9.15pm but when the other party hadnt arrived they let us stay at the table and when the other party finally arrived, they invited us to have a drink at the bar which was was a very nice end to a lovely evening. I am going back on Saturday for lunch and really looking fward to it, this restaurant is good value in these recessionary times and hopefully it maintains its good standards

Ate here for lunch and it was only ok. Waiting staff hit and miss. Very small portions of food and at quite a high price for lunch.

Was here for the third time in three months last week, always as part of a larger group. Staff are super friendy and the food is very nice. I was a little let down by my Scallop starter, but thats probably down to me not reading the menu correctly. I had the duck. Fantasic. Others had the chicken and the steak. All good reviews from the rest of the party. I think we will try the one closer to the city next time.

Was here for the third time in three months last week, always as part of a larger group. Staff are super friendy and the food is very nice. I was a little let down by my Scallop starter, but thats probably down to me not reading the menu correctly. I had the duck. Fantasic. Others had the chicken and the steak. All good reviews from the rest of the party. I think we will try the one closer to the city next time.

I went here for the first time at the weekend. I've been in the originial restaurant a few times and I love it. This place is bigger and brighter although I love the other restaurant for it's cosy atmosphere at night. I only had coffee and dessert but others had sandwiches and soup. The food looks just as good as it does in town, the dessert was gorgeous and the coffee was excellent as always. I will definitely go for dinner here some evening and see what it's like at night.

Had a great meal here on Friday night. Food was really good and the service was excellent. The location map is wrong and it took us a while to find as we were looking further up Baggot Street.

Ate here with my husband a few weeks ago straight after work - lovely place, nice decor. Quite cosy, although would echo the opinion of another poster here that the tables are a bit too close together. I had the goats cheese parcel and my husband had the terrine for starters. My goats cheese was lovely but the consistency of the terrine was very dense - it wasn't easy to eat. Our waitress asked if everything was ok and he told her he didn't like it - she was apologetic and while we were having our mains (I had the chicken, my husband had the moules/frites- both lovely), the maitre d' came over and apologised about the terrine and said if we wanted dessert it would be on the house which was a nice gesture. We didn't end up having dessert or coffee but we appreciated the offer and would go back again.

perfect bistrot in the true sense of the word, typical french in all its glory simple but close to perfect

This restaurant is slowly but surely being added to one of my favourites in Dublin. Another visit last Friday, found the place buzzing with atmosphere. Couldn't pass the french onion soup again, still fantastic! For mains I had the slow cooked pork belly with toulouse sausage and lentils - not my normal type of choice, but it was to die for. My companion had the goats cheese parcel and venion for main - no complaints here either. A fantastiac meal at a mere 80euro with a bottle of red and espressoes. The tables could do with moving apart a bit - a little too close for squeezzzzzzzzzing out of to visit the ladies! Otherwise top.

We came here on a Saturday night for the 7.30 sitting. We were delighted to hear that the table of 8 beside has had found a babysitter last minute and the baby was at home instead of at the meal. The food was delicious, particularly the smoked chicken salad for starter and the cheese board. There was a nice atmosphere throughout the restaurant and the service was very authentic. The food is good value for money as is the wine. This is a lovely little restaurant that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.

UPDATE ON REVIEW: I can very happily say that I got a response to my complaint from the manager who was extremely helpful and apologetic. I think I will give this restaurant another go as everyone can have a bad day - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Disaster from start to finish. Was really looking forward to trying this restaurant after all the good reviews but was very disappointed. The restaurant claims to be coeliac friendly which was a bonus for me, but the staff were not informed or helpful in anyway. I cannot comment on the food because after my meal being served twice incorrectly I had to leave, embarrassment and disappoint were stronger than my need for food! The decor was great and I know everyone else in my party enjoyed their lunch. Will not be going back and will not be recommending to anyone

Just as good as the original. Five of us went here for dinner and got the little underground booth. So tucked away and comfy. Food fab as ever just thinking of the moules frites has me drooling. And great value too. Will be back.

I had lunch there last week with a group of business pals and I really enjoyed it, there is a lovely atmosphere, with nice music and a good hustle and bustle about the place. A little new for my liking - but beautifully fitted and finished. It is light airy but cosy and although they were busy they still serverd prompty some delicious food. There was a good choice of both food and I didn't hear any complaints from my fellow diners. I will definitely go back again - especially since the prices are soo keen. Looking forward to my next visit.

worth a visit if your in the area

Went here for an anniversary dinner and it was absolutely fabulous. I booked the table 2 days in advance and by that stage the only seats available was at the high tables towards the front of the restaurant. This didn't take away from the experience however. the waiting staff were excellent and very friendly. Food was superb - as good as any french food i've had before. Would definitely reccommend!

Chez Max in Baggot St. is just as good as its restaurant in Palace Street. We had a table for eight people and we had nothing but praise for the night we had. The menu suited each one of us and from the starters to the deserts it went down a treat. The service was top class and we were under no pressure to leave. Make sure you give this restaurant a try.

If I thought Chez Max in Dame St. was good, this one came as a surprise. Excellent little location in Baggot St. The atmosphere is very cozy and the wine list extensive. The prices and the food are in line with the other restaurant. I would definitely give it another go and I would recommend it to everyone.

Loving Chez Max of Dublin castle, I had to go to the baggot street restaurant, being very close from home! Went there on a quite week day two weeks ago to munch some cheese and charcuterie with a bottle of wine. Atmosphere was good. I got the gesier. tasty! the cheese platter was ok. Cheese was good but the charcuterie was far from impressive. Nice bottle of wine for 28€ (Domaine des Ganapes). I will go back for a full dinner!

Excellent. The same but different from it's sister restaurant by Dublin Castle. The menu is mostly the same with some small differences in plates and accompanying sauces. The wait staff are efficient and accomodating. The best things about this restaurant include the cozy atmosphere which, as in Chez Max off Dame St - could not be more French, the familiar service, the food which - although derived from a short enough menu - is terrific. Was not dissapointed.

"If it's not broken then dont fix it". Thats obviously the thinking of the owners of Chez Max when opening up their new sister restaurant of the popular Chez Max of Palace Street. I have always been a fan of The Palace Street restaurant and this is no different. The decor is extremely similar, tables, chairs the exact same and that goes for the food as well. It is exactly the same as Palace street. There is one difference in that there is a lot more room in Lower Baggot Street and a good deal more comfortable. I am glad to see that they have kept their prices reasonable.I would have liked some changes in the menu, eg rabbit breast instead of leg. However thats only a small quibble. I expect to come back here again and again.

Had meal with family here during the week, cosy French restaurant, fantastic food and wine, great service. Recommended !

I love chez max off dame street so was delighted to hear a new one was opening. Went on Sat night with my girlfriend. It was really nice inside keeping the same intimate atmosphere, Very pleasantly surprised to see the prices were just as reasonable too - I thought baggot street would drive the prices up. Food was so tasty, washed down with saint joseph 2003 red from the rhone valley, really enjoyable, I will defo be back and would reccommend everyone to go along.

I visited here during the week to try it out, and I must say I was very impressed. I ordered the steak with a peppersauce and my partner ordered the Rabbit. The food was fantastic - full of flavour and beautifully presented. The staff were very pleasent and the restaurant itself had a lovely modern feel to it. The prices were not overly expensive at all, it was well worth it. I will definatly go back with friends, it was a pleasent experience.