Oakland's oldies-infused Max’s Diner & Bar — and sister restaurant Max's Diner in San Ramon, both part of the local Max's restaurant collection — is one of the most family-friendly eateries in the East Bay. The restaurant is energetic and carefree, with jukeboxes playing old-fashioned tunes and a sign on the door reading, “This is a bad place for a diet.” Indeed, the menu features hugely oversized plates to please almost anyone. Choices include sandwiches, snacks, burgers, pastas, salads, seafood, meat loaf and other entrées, carb-conscious meals, plus a killer dessert section. The sandwiches are undoubtedly the favorite, including a chicken muffuletta, a California chicken melt, a Philly cheese steak, a Reuben and club sandwiches named after local celebrities that frequent the diner. Other winning dishes include lunch specials such as seafood penne pasta, a full pound of fried calamari, buffalo fried chicken salad, a patty melt on rye, and carb-conscious Mediterranean chicken and broiled salmon. Desserts include the Niagara Falls chocolate cake layered with warm fudge and buttercream, apple pie served with vanilla ice cream, Max’s Fantasy Torte with three flourless treats, macaroon crumble with marshmallow and hot fudge, and a create-your-own sundae called A Mess of a Sundae. Plus, a patron receives a free drink if he or she spots a food critic (they aren’t allowed in the restaurant due to less than stellar reviews).
Full bar. Kids menu. Serving breakfast Sat–Sun at San Ramon location. Serving lunch and dinner daily.