Business Details
30 Years
experience
Experience Award-Winning Fine Dining in Hartford
Since 1996, Max Downtown has established itself as a premier dining destination in Hartford, Connecticut. Our flagship restaurant combines classic fine dining with a modern, relaxed atmosphere, offering an elevated chophouse experience that has earned numerous accolades. Our menu features meticulously crafted dishes, complemented by an extensive wine selection stored in our in-house wine mezzanine and a globally curated whiskey bar under the direction of Lead Bartender Szabi Geiger. With over 25 years of service, we have cultivated a reputation for exceptional hospitality, winning recognition from Connecticut Magazine, Hartford Magazine, and the New York Times. Our team, led by Managing Partner Steven Abrams and Executive Chef Christopher Sheehan, brings decades of culinary expertise and a commitment to excellence.We provide versatile dining options including our main dining room, whiskey bar, and two private event spaces accommodating groups from 12 to 50 guests. Our dedication to quality extends to every detail, from our seasonally inspired cuisine to our curated spirits selection and attentive service. We maintain proper standards of presentation while ensuring approachability in our tavern area. Our establishment has adapted with Hartford's evolution while preserving the core values that have made us a local institution.
Services
Fine Dining
Private Dining Rooms
Whiskey Bar
Happy Hour
Catering Services
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of culinary excellence in Hartford's dining scene
- Award-winning cuisine recognized by Connecticut Magazine and New York Times
- Two private dining rooms for events from 12 to 50 guests
- Expert team with decades of hospitality and culinary experience
- Complimentary indoor parking available for lunch and dinner
Services
Fine Dining
Our main dining room offers an elevated chophouse experience with contemporary decor and a sophisticated atmosphere. Guests enjoy meticulously prepared American classics and seasonal specialties paired with curated wine selections from our in-house mezzanine. The space features visible dessert stations and accommodates both intimate dinners and larger groups seeking exceptional culinary experiences.
Private Dining
Two renovated private dining rooms accommodate various group sizes - The Alfred Room (12-28 guests) and Everett Room (up to 50 guests). Full restaurant rental options available for exclusive events. Professional event coordination services provided by Morgan Carr ensure seamless execution of corporate functions, social gatherings, and charity events with customized menu options and dedicated staff.
Whiskey Bar
Under Lead Bartender Szabi Geiger's direction, our whiskey bar features an extensive global collection of bourbons, ryes, scotches, and international whiskeys. The space offers first-come seating at the bar and surrounding tables with Happy Hour specials available Monday-Friday 4-6pm. The bar serves select tavern menu items during extended hours beyond regular dining times.
Catering Services
Custom catering solutions for private events featuring our signature chophouse cuisine. Services include on-site preparation, professional service staff, and tailored menu options for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings. Available for both in-restaurant functions and select off-site locations with coordination through our dedicated event team.
Happy Hour
Daily Happy Hour in the Whiskey Bar featuring discounted drink selections and select tavern menu items. Available Monday-Friday from 4-6pm with rotating seasonal specials. The promotion offers an accessible introduction to our beverage programs while maintaining the quality standards of our full-service offerings.
People
Steven Abrams
Managing Partner
With over 25 years in the restaurant industry, Steven Abrams co-founded Max Downtown in 1996 after gaining business acumen through family retail operations and formal education at Bentley College. He oversees daily operations while serving as VP of Max Hospitality, managing 10 restaurant locations with an emphasis on customer satisfaction and staff development.
Christopher Sheehan
Executive Chef
Executive Chef Christopher Sheehan brings decades of culinary expertise from Johnson & Wales University training and mentorship under Chef Hunter Morton. Recognized for award-winning cuisine at Max Downtown, he has appeared at the James Beard House and earned accolades for his seasonally inspired, meticulously executed dishes that balance creativity with technical precision.
Questions
What are Max Downtown's operating hours?
We serve lunch Monday-Friday 11:30am-2:30pm and dinner Monday-Thursday 5pm-9pm, Friday 5pm-10pm, Saturday 4pm-10pm, and Sunday 4pm-9pm.
Is there parking available?
Yes, we offer complimentary indoor parking in the attached CityPlace Garage for lunch and dinner guests with no need to go outside.
What dress code should I follow?
Proper smart-casual attire is required in the main dining room (no tank tops, cut-offs, or flip flops). Casual attire is welcome in our Whiskey Bar area.
Can I book private events?
Yes, we have two private dining rooms accommodating 12-50 guests with full event coordination services available through Morgan Carr at (860) 522-2530.
What distinguishes your whiskey bar?
Our Whiskey Bar features an international collection curated by Lead Bartender Szabi Geiger, including bourbons, ryes, scotches, and Japanese whiskeys available with Happy Hour specials Monday-Friday.
