Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Max's Alley (Concord, NC)

The other day I had the pleasure of meeting a new friend over lunch at Max's Ally in Concord. I'd been there before, but that was long before (a couple of months), this blog got started.

As I entered the restaurant, I walked past their outdoor seating area -- it looks pretty sweet! Faux natural stone fireplace, TV, heaters, and fans are all available to keep you comfortable. Seriously, it's one of the nicer outdoor seating arrangements I've seen.

I made my way inside and met my friend. After some small talk, I got down to business and read the menu. The lunch menu there is on the lighter side, and has mostly sandwiches and salads. After a LOT of going back-and-forth, I decided to order the Honey Mustard Chicken Wrap with regular fries (I've had their sweet potato fries before -- they were amazing)

Max's Ally is actually a large dining facility. But because of the way it's broken-up into rooms, it feels very cozy. The interior is decorated with warm colors, stone, and dark woods. It seems like a great place to hang out after work with a bottle of wine! Too bad don't work in Concord, I'd be there all the time!

Our meals arrived (we ordered the same thing), and I was very pleased. The large wrap was served in a spinach tortilla, and was filled with "marinated chicken, field greens, smoked bacon, tomatoes, swiss (cheese)." It was really good!

The freshly cooked chicken was still warm, the honey mustard sauce was present but not over-powering. The veggies were ripe and fresh. And really, how can you go wrong with bacon? All these flavors mixed together, to create a light but filling meal.

In addition, the fries were crispy, but tender. Truly delicious. But, here's the sad part -- I didn't clear my plate because I was soooo full. A few fries and a little bit of wrap survived the meal.

After my meal, I had the opportunity to meet the owner of Max's Alley (who also owns Dresslers' in Birkdale). And to my astonishment, he actually knew of this blog!! SQUEEE!! I've gotta admit, I was a little floored.

But, all-in-all, my meal was very good, the service ridiculously attentive, and I liked the atmosphere -- I've gotta bring my wife here for dinner sometime.

Score:
Atmosphere: 4/5
Food: 4/5
Service: 4.5/5
Total: 12.5/15

Price: $$ (Sweet tea, food, tax, and tip approx $16)
Kid Friendly: Yes, they have a kids menu. And the atmosphere, while nice, is informal.

Conclusion: I had a great meal. I'll definitely recommend this place to friends, and I'll be sure to visit again. Just a quick note, their dinner entrees range from $12 to $19.

Restaurant Info:
Max's Ally
Afton Village
355 John Galt Way, Suite 101
Concord, NC
p) 704-721-MAXS (6297)
f) 704-721-6291
http://www.maxsally.com/

3 comments:

  1. My friend and I took an elderly couple to dinner there on Sunday eveningr---what a hidden Gem! We had an excellent dinner. I had a seafood pasta with giant scallops and shrimp that was in a delicious saffron tomato broth along with Caesar Salad. The staff was very attentive and accomodating to our guests that we brought and their diet restrictions. I am also a big fan of Dresslers,but it is nice to know this restaurant is available too.

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  2. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Max's. What a great little hidden spot!

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  3. I think max's ally is the best restaurant i've ever eaten at in concord. Concord needed a plac like this. All of their food is fresh and the chef is very talented. there are always new features and desserts being offered every week. I love the food and the service definitely matches. I would tell anyone to check it out for themselves!

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