Cafe Max - Edina

Fresh homemade pasta, a wonderful wine selection and all the charms that come with being a legendary neighborhood restaurant. We have been dining here for years and plan to continue doing so for many more!

We ordered the pesce soup, penne with pepper sauce, and a seafood special. The food was plentiful and tasty, although the pesce came not on pasta, but with pita crusts on the side. BUT the scene at the door was horrendous. I had called to reserve a table for a specific time. We got there 15 minutes early to be told that they do not reserve tables, they only list call-ins who get seated before non-callins. So there were three other callins before us. No mention of this on the phone. Two people who had walked in without calling in apparently had been waiting to get their names on a list for walkins when we came in. Not aware that some people may have called in (or thought they had reserved tables, hence approached the thostess), the walkins who were still waiting just to talk to the hostess, as I finished talking with her, accused me of being rude for jumping ahead of everyone else for what they thought was just getting your name on the list. In short, a really nasty situation that the management created. It ruined the evening. Once they figured out that others had called in and that they would have a nearly hour wait, the walkins left. So, call in first, don't expect to get a table until about 15-30 mins after you arrive, and expect the situation at the door--where there is not enough standing room--to get ugly.

I don't like to spend my money where I get treated like a second class citizen when I'm just trying to get a meal while patronizing the business. My money spends the same way. I aught to get the common courtesy and acknowledgement I see everyone else get. I feel like I have to prove to these folks I'm worthy to even enter their business. I give a tip every now then, besides whatever I purchase is paid in full...So what's their problem with me?

Simple a very good Italian restaurant that has very good food. They make their pasta in house, their pizza is one of the best in town (OK not as creative as Young Joni but still very good). Try their mystery bottle of wine. Last we had was a Sangiovese which was very good and for only $25. Small with good indoor space and a nice sidewalk space for outdoor dining. They have been around for 21 years so doing something right. Go enjoy a nice meal!

You won't go wrong with any of your choices. Great staff, decor and excellent food.