AJ Maxwell's Steakhouse

My husband and I went here for a nice Saturday night dinner. The decor was nice -- formal but not stuffy. Hostess greeted and seated us promptly.

Waitstaff is gruff. Service is very casual. Not unfriendly, but rather aggressive New Yorker style. I did not find it charming. Felt like we were eating at a greasy burger joint rather than a nice restaurant.

The food was average. Definitely overpriced. Half bottle of Kendall Jackson was $35 (note: HALF bottle!). We've been to other steakhouses in the city that had much better food for the same price. My husband and I each got filet mignon. He likes medium rare and I like medium. We couldn't tell which one was which because our steaks were cooked rather unevenly. Carrot cake for dessert was rather dry and the frosting not very memorable.

The BIGGEST PROBLEM with the place is that they OVERCHARGED US ON THE BILL. They overcharged us for 2 items on the bill - the wine and salad (wine should have been $35 - charged us $40; salad should have been $11 - charged us $12). It appears they overcharge customers on a regular basis. The table next to us was also overcharged. They actually said something to their waiter. We figured it wasn't worth our time to point out that this restaurant was engaging in an extremely sketchy practice of systematically upping prices by small amounts on customers' bills.

Bottom Line: We will not be returning. And be warned: check your bill before paying to make sure you are charged the correct amount.

Pros: nice decor

Cons: overcharged on bill, gruff waitstaff, average food

Posted 08/28/09

My husband and I were referred by a friend to visit this steakhouse. We are passionate about the theatre so we were looking for something close to our show. We were pleasantly suprised that they offer free parking at the garage next door. It was so convienent since we were going to the show and they allowed up to 6 hours for free. What a deal. I ordered the sesame tuna and my husband had a rib eye. I never saw a steak so big in my life. I was told that there rib eye is the biggest in the city almost 40 ounces. Holy Cow. We had a great time. Our waitress was a riot. We will definitly return and spread the word of the deal going on, where else in the city can you park for free? Amazing.

Pros: Free parking, Great food! Huge tastey steaks.

Cons: That we didnt find this place sooner.

Posted 07/08/09

We dined at AJ Maxwell's last week and thoroughly enjoyed our meal and the atmosphere of the bar area. In fact we enjoyed it so much we went back the next night. We spent four nights in New York and this was the best steakhouse we found. Highly recommend AJ's cheese burger and steak sandwich from the bar menu. Generous helpings and great fries too. The staff were friendly and helpful on both occasions. Will be recommending the steakhouse to friends visiting NYC.

Posted 04/11/09

The staff at AJ Maxwell's was helpful and attentive. The restaurant has a good ambience and the food was good. I had the filet mignon and tiramisu for dessert. However the steak was not particularly memorable. There was nothing wrong with it but I expected more. The tiramisu was pretty good though.

Pros: Overall good experience

Cons: Nothing in particular

Posted 03/25/09

We had a company event at A.J. Maxwell's last night and I have to say the food was terrific and the wait-staff some of the best I've ever dealt with. EVERYONE was treated like a VIP (all 75 of our guests)! The portions were huge and the atmosphere relaxed. I would recommend A.J. Maxwell's to anyone.

Pros: Food and Wait-staff

Cons: None

Posted 03/18/09

I hadn't heard of this place, so I was a bit skeptical, but we had some gift certificates so we decided to try it out. I was very pleasantly surprised. Our waiter was fantastic, very knowledgeable about the menu, and he even recommended that we share the bone-in rib eye (most waiters want the high pay check so won't recommend sharing). The ambience was very basic - nothing to criticize but definitely nothing to praise. We had the hash browns as one of our sides, and it was excellent. The reason I didn't give a 5 was because I think there are a few steakhouses that are equal in caliber.

Pros: Good food, courteous staff

Cons: There are other steakhouses that are equal in caliber

Posted 03/04/09

Dinner at AJ Maxwell's was as good as it gets. We were seated promptly at a very nice table and brough out a large bread basket with a nice variety. Our appetizers were very delicious, I had the shrimp scampi, my wife had the escargot. Our main course was mouth watering. The steaks here are large enough to satisfy me, being a big man myself. The rib eye was as tasty as I have ever had and cooked perfect.
It was my wifes birthday and I had mentioned that on the open table reservation I made. I was impressed that the staff paid enough attention to this and the servers came out singing happy birthday to her. Dessert was on the house. It was a great touch, and a great meal. Thank you AJ Maxwell's.

Pros: Outstanding food and service

Posted 01/27/09

I ate at A.J. Maxwell's the other night during restaurant week and had a fantastic meal.
When I first walked in, I was hesitant because restaurant week meals are usually small portions.
I was pleasantly surprised to see the steak was a nice sized portion and the sides were delicious.
The service was also impressive. I will definitely go back when restaurant week is over.

Pros: Overall pleasant experience

Posted 01/25/09

My husband and I visited this steakhouse left night and this is the first time I have ever left a review that is negative because I know that sometimes it is just an off night, unfortunately, the attitude of this place leaves me to feel differently. Outside of, Nicole, who I would guess is the captain of the dining room, the rest of the staff is unprofessional and certainly not aiming to please. Before going to the restaurant, I went on a website for review and found that someone recently had an experience with how their food was cooked. Knowing this going in, I ordered my steak med-well, which I usually order medium but did not want my steak to come out rare. When my steak arrived, it was RARE and the center was ice cold!!!! Not in any world med-well. I did not send it back because we all know you don't send your food back to the kitchen unless you go with it!!!! Anyway, the waiter saw that I did not touch my food and NEVER even asked was there a problem. When it came time to clear the table, he did ask if I wanted to take it home. I responded if it was not edible the first time around why would I eat it at another time. He never apologized or attempted to make it right. There are too many delicious steakhouses in NY to eat here. Don't waste your time

Pros: atmosphere

Cons: food

Posted 01/17/09

My boyfriend and I recently ate here while visiting NY and we are steak lovers. While the location and decor was very nice, I had some issues with the food and staff. I order the Filet, medium rare the portion was huge, but the steak was way under cooked. It was literally RAW and COLD in the center. After sending it back our waiter asked what was wrong. I cordially explained that it was raw and cold in the center, he responded by saying "Well when you order a fillet medium rare, that's how its served." Not even an apology. Excuse me?? I am a cook myself and know full well what medium rare should be in temperature and appearance. Granted some places serve food differently, that's universal and if that is the way they serve it, the customer most certainly ought to be informed of such. Secondly, that last thing a restaurant or waiter should ever do in that situation is argue or say anything other than "We apologize and will take care of it right away." Both my boyfriend have worked in food service as waiters and still do occasionally and we take great care addressing our servers and any issues we have with food or service. We were not rude by any means. Had the staff responded differently, I would feel no need to mention this incident in this review This is not behavior I would expect from such a fine dining establishment.

Minus the above incident, the food was good (once cooked properly), sauteed mushroom side fantastic, creme brulee and creamed spinach wonderful. Overall it was good, but I leave the star rating at average based on the level of service received and inability to cook the steak they way it was ordered the first time around.

Pros: Ambience, location, sides, dessert, wine list, steaks

Cons: Service

Posted 01/08/09

Service and wait staff were very good. Decor was classy and elegant

Food was also very tasty however prices make this a once a yr rest. Steak or fish is totally a la carte. A potato or veggie on the side is an additional $8-10 - I feel with a $36 portion of fish or a $46- steak it should be accompanied by sides.

Pros: elegance. service

Cons: price

Posted 12/05/08

This place rocks.....
I come often to enjoy great food and a few drinks.
My favorite place to sit is by the big window.
I'm treated like family each time I come.
The steak are quite large and tasty, but the other day,
I had the Lobster Ravioli special and I need to get back for more.
IT WAS AMAZING!!!!!!!!
It's a great atmosphere with friendly happy people and the staff welcomes you.

I'll go back over and over.

Pros: great food, great staff

Cons: Get there early to get a good seat in the bar/lounge

Posted 11/20/08

This was one of my favorite places to dine in New York. I heard about it from a friend and it was true as good as he said it would be. The food was very delicious and the service was great. The waiters were always available and made sure we got eveything we needed in a timely fashion. There is a great variety on the menu, each one of us ordered a different dish and we were all satisfied with our choices. Overall i truely enjoyed my experience and would recommend it to anyone.

Posted 05/07/08

It was an awesome experience. It was my first time in New York, and we tried a lot of different restaurants but this was by far my favorite. The service was great right from the host to the waiters. The manager came by to ask how everything was, and tried to help us out with visiting New York. Service was excellent. They have a great wine collection, perfect with anything that you decide to get. I had a steak and it was cooked to perfection, very juicy and it was more than enough in size. There were 6 of us and we all got something different, everyone loved their choice. We ordered sides for the whole table the broccoli and the mashed potatoes were amazing. We also had dessert which was decadent. All in all I would definitely go back and refer it to everyone I know.

Posted 05/06/08

I've been to plenty of Steakhouses in many states. AJ Maxwell's is by far one of the best. Please don't listen to those other reviews directing you to go to DelFriscos, it must be someone from DelFriscos writing those reviews because they want to take customers from Maxwells. The rib eye was superior to any I have ever eaten, big enough to satisfy any meat eating texan, juicy and cooked to perfection. The juice comes from the fat, just enough to give it the flavor a rib eye needs. You're not going to get that over at DelFrisco, instead you'll get some dried out tasteless, flavorless lesser cut of meat, I know, I've been there. Sides of potatos a great compliment- get the au gratin, - I even got the dessert on the house.
The servers were attentive, professional and happy. I like that in a steakhouse. It was pricey, but worth it.
The bar was big and roomy, pretty girls at the bar and prettier at the front desk. I liked the greeting especially, pretty girls welcoming me in, great steaks, big bar, what more can a man want. I'll be back for sure.

Pros: Great big steak, friendly at home atmosphere, good service

Cons: I can't think of any

Posted 04/15/08

This is so funny!

I read the reviews here encouraging customers to go to DelFriscos (sounds kind of like an inside job to me) and then went to citysearch for DelFriscos, and saw the same. OK, you got my attention, I'm in on this "steakhouse war". I'll check out both restaurants, being a steak lover I will eat at both of the local restaurants and write my review on which is the best. Stay tuned for more of the dish on is the better choice.
I'LL BE BACK.

Posted 04/15/08

Had a business dinner here yesterday and founds that all of the dishes we ordered were extremely over cooked. The steak and lamb were both supposed to be medium rare, but came out charred. Unless you want to be embarrassed in front of a client, do not go here. The waitress was overly confident in the food and told us we couldn't go wrong with our orders. We were too embarrassed to even point out the food's shortcomings to her before we left.
Bottom line, the cook here just doesn't know what he's doing with a piece of meat.
Drinks and appetizers in the front bar area can be ok sometimes if you like being surrounded with a bunch of loud groups. For a better time, head to DelFrisco's near by...

Cons: Charred meat

Posted 03/17/08

My fiance and I work in the area so we decided to have go for a nice steak on Friday. The atmosphere was fine and our server was nice, but the food was a disappointment. Pros- the bread basket was wonderful with many varieties to choose from, the mac & cheese was delicious, and the cheesecake for dessert was also good. Cons - I got the filet and it was ok but certainly not among the best. My fiance go the ribeye and it was big but so much of it was pure fat. I know its good to have some marbleing but it 1/3 of it was just fat so he didn't enjoy it much. The hash was SO salty that I didn't touch it after my first bite. I felt like I was eating pure salt. Their creamed spinich was ok. If you're looking for a steakhouse in the area, go to Del Frisco's instead. We had a $50 gift certificate so luckily we paid only $130 out of pocket. I wish I could give it good reviews but we were not impressed and don't plan to return.

Pros: cheesecake, bread basket, mac & cheese

Cons: steaks, hash, price

Posted 03/10/08

Delicious meat, great menu selections, and you are care of just the right way. I was here over the weekend, and I had one of the best meals I have had in a long time. I am looking forward to coming back to this steak restaurant again soon. The steaks are prepared to your liking. I like my steak medium rare. This steak was juicy, tender, and delicious. I had a fabulous glass of wine to go along with my meal that was recommended by my waiter. If you want a delicious steak dinner in a romantic restaurant, this is the place

Pros: Steaks are great

Cons: none

Posted 02/18/08

I have been to all of the "top" steakhouses in the city, and a lot across the country. I love AJ Maxwell's, the atmosphere is similar to what you will find elsewhere, as most of the high quality places all have the same guy's club steakhouse feel going on. The thing that separates AJ's is the consistency, every single time I go there the steak is perfect, and I can't say that about too many other places, if any. The staff is good; they get the job done and pretty much stay out of the way, plenty of wine, nice bar area if you want to have a more casual meal or drink. This place is a can't miss if you want a guaranteed good steak experience.

Pros: Steak & Staff, good wine selection, nice atmopshere

Cons: $$$, n/a

Posted 02/05/08

On December 15, 2007, I went to this restaurant for dinner in a party of three. The restaurant was recommended by our hotel. I would strongly recommend that you not dine here for dinner. In my opinion,when spending over $50 per meal, I expert superb service. We waited for over 30 minutes (twice) for our water and tea to be refilled, we asked for a wine list twice and never received one. Not once during this 2 1/2 hour meal did anyone ask us how we were doing. The food was okay, but certainly nothing spectacular and definately not worth the cost. My advice, find another place to dine. There are plenty of nice places in New York and the service here is awful.

Pros: good location

Cons: horrible service and over priced for the quality

Posted 12/14/07

My husband and I were in town and picked this because of the high ratings and philosophy of "the total dining experience." Unfortunately we were seriously disappointed, nearly to the point of walking out of the restaurant mid-meal. We arrived early and were seated promptly around 5:30, however, we waited nearly 15 minutes to get a menu or speak with anyone. Our waiter, when he did eventually show, was curt and not helpful with our questions.

Around 6pm (we had not yet had a chance to place our order) when a group of adults and children were seated next to us. This group was extraordinarily rude, shouting to each other and allowing their children to yell and scream. Not one of your staff seemed care that they were creating the atmosphere of a Chuck-e-Cheese children?s restaurant at a high-end steakhouse. What infuriated us more, was that our waiter gave that table faster and more courteous service than we had gotten. He took their orders right away and was much more pleasant with them.

Our order arrived more than an hour and a half after we had been seated. Both of our steaks were overcooked and dry (we ordered them cooked medium). Our side dishes were luke warm. The hash brown potatoes had been over salted and were inedible. At this point, had we not been pressed for time because we had waited so long, we would have left and spoke to management.

As it was, we asked for the bill, which came another 20 minutes later. What upset us most was that we paid, after tax and tip, $199 for that terrible experience. If I had it to do over again, I would have called over the manager and refused to pay for the mediocre food and horrendous service. However, time did not permit us to do so, and we were honestly hoping things would improve.

Pros: Nice restaurant decor

Cons: Terrible food, poor service

Posted 12/11/07

We arrived in town Early Friday for a Black-tie wedding in Central Park Saturday Evening. I contacted the concierge desk to make dinner reservations. I have eaten at many top Restaurants all around the Globe traveling with the accounting firm KPMG. As a Partner for an accounting firm, I enjoy fine dining experiences with my clients. I enjoy steakhouses and Seafood and they recommended McCormick & Schmick?s as a close eatery on 6th and 52nd for 7:30, I agreed, thinking it was a safe choice since I have eaten in others. We arrived at the restaurant at 7:25 to find that we did not have reservations and were put on the end of a very long list. In our amazement, we excused ourselves and walked toward Rockefeller Center to see what might be around that area, it had gotten very cold and I was losing my voice. After walking 45 minutes we stumbled upon AJ Maxwell?s. We found the Steakhouse to be very accommodating and over the top with an awesome selection of great tasting food. They suggested ordering less than more, which I have never seen at a Steakhouse. The wait-staff were helpful and attentive. That is a great business philosophy that makes everyone happy. They made us feel very warm and appreciated. I do not know how to thank the restaurant other than a great tip.

I would and have already recommended this Steakhouse to others as well as the Marriott Midtown. I just read a recent review that was not even close to the experience we just had. The individual that wrote that review, must have been in a different Steakhouse or works for a competitor. I plan on posting this same message on McCormicks if possible.

Kindest Regards,

Jim & Dolores Revels, Philadelphia

Pros: Service, cuts of beef, quite/conversational

Cons: Wish New York was closer..I would be back more often

Posted 11/18/07

I eat out a lot but this place is really underwhelming. Food is good, but service lacks pretty much everything. Managers either hover or are nowhere to be seen. I had a rib eye that was good but all in all my boyfriend and I felt that there was too much food for 2 people and also, the prices are so crazy that it's hard to justify not eating everything. Nothing to write home about.

Posted 09/13/07

We are from Toronto, Ontario, we went for dinner at this lovely restaurant. The food was fabulous. The environment is extremely comfortable & enjoyable. We had a lovely conversation with one of the owner's, Sal. We will definitely be going back on our next trip to NY. We have already recommended this restaurant to our friends. Can't wait to have another enjoyable evening @ AJ Maxwell's!!!!!

P.S.

Hi Sal, we'll be contacting you prior to coming back to NY to get the low down on where to stay, where to get tickets, where to buy a sports car, etc.....

The Savoia Family

Pros: food, service & location

Cons: non

Posted 08/25/07

I arrived in New York in January this year for a 1 month work assignment and stumbled across this place on a Sunday afternoon. I spoke to a very pleasant gentleman by the name of Steve who made me feel right at home with great humor and served me a fine hunk of steak that was the begining of my addiction :-).
I arrived back in NY from Canada on April 1st and will be returning home at the end of this week Aug 4th and hope to make another visit with my wife to see all the staff and enjoy some great food.
I have had dinner/lunch at AJ aprox 8 times since April and numerous visits for cocktails and have never yet been disappointed. I have also hosted 2 business meetings in the private rooms downstairs. Folks if you want to have a great meeting followed by dinner ask for the wine celar room, great spot.
To Steve and the rest of the management team and staff at AJ's, thank you from the Canadian guy!!!

Pros: Service,food,atmosphere especially the bar area,meeting rooms

Cons: they are closed sometimes, no Canadian beer :-)

Posted 07/27/07

This place is fantastic - They have the fine dining aspect down and the bar area is comfortable and chill. I've gone a number of times and just had a few cocktails and small eats in that area. Of course, the ribeye is unmatched and the "sides" that come with a steak dinner are generous and tasty, my hands-down favorite being the brussel sprouts with bacon. But try, too, the fantastic mini-burgers and fries! I love the atmosphere in the bar area and it's perfect for a casual after-work cocktail. Best thing about it, is they have full menu in the bar - so my sprouts craving can be satisfied without the full steak commitment! I LOVE THIS PLACE!

Posted 07/09/07

I read the reviews on this website and decided to give it a try. What a bunch of propaganda. If you read the closely they all seem like professional advertisements. The place was not busy. The atmosphere was subdued. The food mediocre at best. Based on the reviews, you would think you had gone to heaven. Not so. Beware.

Posted 07/06/07

I took a client and several members of my management team there for dinner and couldn?t have been happier. They seated us in the dining room, but we had a great view of the busy bar scene. My client wanted champagne, and was thrilled to find not one but four different champagnes by the glass, all fairly priced. The appetizers included a giant shrimp cocktail for my client, which she loved, and I had a tuna tartare (with coriander in it and sliced avocado next to it) that was so delicious I went back two nights later to get a couple of orders to take home! The steak is some of the best you?ll find, right up there with the quality of more famous steakhouses, but we discovered a secret that night ? some of the freshest, most well presented fish anywhere. My client had the mahi-mahi special, which she kept raving about and several others had the Chilean sea bass, which was exquisite. I had the surf and turf, which is a sensible filet mignon and half a two pound lobster. And where else could I find brussels sprouts as one of a dozen or so sides! Another thing I liked about this restaurant was the wine list, which while not as extensive as some other steakhouses, had some excellent fairly priced reds and a surprisingly well-selected collection of whites, including a 2001 Corton Charlemagne, the king of white burgundies, for only $180 (it can sell for 50-100% more other places). Desserts can be served puu-puu platter style for the table including some wonderful chocolate cakes, but my client said the cheesecake was the best she?d ever had. One added bonus: a celebrity television personality sat near us and my client had the chance to meet him.

I'm a NY'er but the central location is perfect - near Rock Center, the theaters, many of the hotels, and there's a major subway stop for the F, V, B and D lines about 200 feet away.

I had been to this restaurant a couple of times before but never for dinner. I'd go back in a heartbeat!

Pros: great steaks, seafood, wine, desserts, location

Cons: can't think of any

Posted 07/01/07

Best steak and and seafood in midtown. Had a great time and ate some great food. Great for meetings large and small too. Will definatly be back for my next meeting if I can wait that long.

Pros: Meeting space and good food in one spot.

Posted 06/12/07

Working in Hotel Guest Services, it's part of my job to find the best places to eat in the city. Now, when it comes to steak, I've never found any steakhouse I rather eat at then Peter luger in Brooklyn (and trust me I tried many of the top of the line places in the city). The problem is, none of my guest want to wait in long lines, take taxi's to brooklyn and only pay cash, so I had to find something that could match this place. And I found it when I came across AJ MAXWELL"S. The food is great, and the menu gets larger every time you go in (which in my case is often) and not once have I been disapointed. The service is amazing, probally better then any other place I've eaten and I must say they treated me like a king everytime. The atmosphere is just perfect. It would appeal to anyone, not to loud, not to quiet, not to young, not to old just perfect. In my eyes I think Maxwell's is a winner hands down in all catargories you think of when deciding what steakhouse your going to eat at tonight and I would recomend it to anyone who wants to eat good. Congrats to the staff all around, you guys are making and serving the best steaks in the best city.

Pros: Eclectic menu for a steakhouse and all the food speaks for itself.

Cons: You might eat to much.

Posted 06/11/07

A.J. Maxwell's looks, feels, and smells like your classic steakhouse. It is tastefully appointed and the energy is positive. You are struck with an immediate sense of ease and familiarity; thanks to the capable and unpretentious staff . The early evening bar scene is lively and cool. The drinks come fast and stiff. The food is very good and the portions are MYTHIC, making dessert highly improbable. I also like the diversity of the clientelle which solidly reflects the character of this greatest city we live in. I highly recommend A.J.'s, and the value for price is absolutely fair.

Posted 06/06/07

AJ's is the best of both worlds, it's old school customer service where the owner greets his guests at the door meets new school menus where you can order fantastic fresh fish to simply great steaks. You can't go wrong on AJ's, should you require a quiet, romantic date night or a fun and singles hook up; you'll find both in either the cozy restaurant or the singles scene bar side. The staff made my guests and I feel like we were at Cheers. Try it out, you won't be sorry.

Posted 05/13/07

The food was very good and the service was professional. On our evening we encountered, along with many of the other diners, a boisterous table of partygoers who had booked two tables. As we were looking for a quiet evening in a good steakhouse, the noisiness and complete disregard for other diners displayed by these boorish partygoers made the evening quite disagreeable.
The manager did offer us free drinks to amend for the noise but we were in no mood to linger any longer than necessary. They should open a private room for parties like this or send them elsewhere. Many of the other diners also expressed dismay at the lack of consideration shown by this boorish party and I doubt if any will return.

Posted 05/06/07

We have dined at AJ Maxwell's on 3 different occasions, and have never been disappointed. The food, the service and the decor all add to make this a wonderful dining experience. As a Travel Agency owner, we book many people in Manhattan for weekend getaways, and I always feel confident recommending this restaurant to our clients.

Pros: very consistent quality of food

Cons: not in the city enough

Posted 04/25/07

I was in NYC for a few days, and our hotel concierge recommend this restaurant nearby; result: great scene, the waiter was excellent, not up too tight at all, quick and knew his menu very well. The steak was super, wine list for every taste and wallet and you don't have the feeling you've got rubbed when you see the bill. Try it.

Pros: Rockefeller Center

Posted 04/21/07

Our group of eight came here on wednesday for dinner. the place was very busy.
The waitress was very professional and attentive.
we all ordered steaks most of us got the rib eye, cooked medium rare. when we got our steaks, there was a collective sigh of appreciation as we all took our first bites. their steaks are well-seasoned, the rib eye was perfectly marbled and came framed by a nice layer of fat and a huge bone
i also had half of the strip steak - it was slightly more flavourful. i couldnt decide which was better. for sides, we opted to split 2 orders of mac n cheese , spinach, sauteed mushrooms, and potatoes au gratin. the mac n cheese was very good baked, so it came with a nice crispy cheese crust. the other sides were nothing to write home about, though there were no complaints either. most of the table was too stuffed for dessert, but they offer us a nice dessert plate with fruit.
You have so many steakhouses in New York. i ve been to Mortons, Peter Lugers, Sparks, Smith & Wollensky, Uncle Jacks, & Palm, but i think that A J Maxwell's steak tops them all !!!

Pros: very personnal restaurant

Posted 04/21/07

Visiting NY and looking for a good steak. AJ was recommended by hotel. Our waitress was great, pleasant, personable, and fun. Wine selection was ok. Our steaks were ordered medium and medium well. We requested no butterfly on the steaks and let the waitress know we were not in a hurry so no rush on the steaks. When steaks arrived they were completly burned on both sides, no not charred BURNED. The medium steak was well done and the medium well was raw in the middle. We attempted to eat the steaks and had to cut a 1/4 inch all the way around just to get to anything not burned. In addition, they had no flavor what so ever. In an attempt to try to enjoy we didn't initailly complain and gave the waitress our credit card. We then spoke with her about the steaks and pointed out that we didn't eat all but a bite or two. She asked why we didn't complain sooner and we said it was not in our nature but we didn't feel right about paying the $180.00 bill for 2 burned steaks, 2 salads, one side, and two glasses of wine. As she already had our paid bill she apologized and went to the back room. We waited around for 15 minutes for someone to come to our table (the manager, the cook, someone). Our waitress never returned nor did anyone else. We are attempting to contact them both by mail, phone, and email and have not received anytype of response. You would think that a steakhouse could cook a steak that had atleast a little flavor and was not totally burned. We go to NY quite often and have large business dinners. We will never return, never bring clients, nor recommend to anyone else. From other reviews we have read, this restaurant either great or terrible no inbetween.

Pros: Good Service

Cons: Terrible Reviews, Complaints Ignored

Posted 04/04/07

great food great service a fun place to go for drinks or dinner love everything about it the people were so friendly. a must go when in the city

Posted 03/28/07

I went to NYC recently, and I heard about this place through a friend. I went, not that hard to find being that it is around the corner from Rockefeller center. I had the steak, which made my trip. I never had anything as ood as this place. the way the steak was prepared, the side dishes, the appetizers, the drinks, the staff, all really good. They made me feel really welcomed and relaxed, and they did not hesitate to make recommendations. If you live there or visiting, you have to stop by and try it out.

Pros: Food, atmosphere, if you can, private dinning in there special wine room

Cons: nothing, especially after seeing the wine room

Posted 03/18/07

i have to say that everything about aj maxwell's looks like your classic steak house. from the white clothed tables, to the impeccable service to the massive hunks of meat coming out of the kitchen. too bad it didn't taste better? the irony is that i went to the restauarant with two friends who raise beef cattle for a living. they agreed the steak, while massive, really lacked flavor. i started with a ceasar with stale croutons, and knife-chopped lettuce. then i had the rib eye, which could have fed a family of four. they had the filet mignon, which was smaller but no more flavorful than anything else at the table. the mushroom side dish was good. the wine list had very few good selections for under $100. i felt like this restaurant was trying to focus too much on its image and not on the food. oh well.

Pros: service

Cons: food - too much of it with too little flavor

Posted 03/14/07

If you're looking for a place to impress, AJ Maxwell's is the place for you. I took clients there for dinner before a broadway show. They couldnt stop raving about the meal. My client actually called me the next day to say she had a dream about the lamb chops -- the best she's ever had. The staff and service were superb. I wouldnt hesitate to recommend it to anyone.

Pros: Great food, service and atmosphere

Posted 01/02/07

The staff to the food & wine to the desserts are all outstanding.From when you first walk thru the front door,the staff really makes you feel welcome.The food is made with pure perfection.The wine selection is impecable, and the desserts end the most enjoyable evening with 1 BIG SMILE.Definately make this a place you have to dine in, I PROMISE you will come back.

Pros: all the above

Cons: none

Posted 01/01/07

I was at AJ Maxwell's during the week with the guys and brought my family back this weekend. I was impressed both times. Not only was the service outstanding, the food was great. I ordered a rib eye and I was tempted to pick up the bone and start eating from it. My wife had the short ribs, and she got annoyed that I kept eating from her plate, that's how good it was. My mom and dad had fish that was equally fresh and tasty. The sides we all wonderful and the portions large. The kids were thrilled with the mini burgers, chicken cutlet parm and mac and cheese. The is something for everyone at this restaurant. I received the same service when I was with the guys at a business meal, as with my family on the weekend. Everyone was extremely friendly and I felt right at home. You can bet I will be back over and over again. AJ Maxwell's is now my #1 place for business lunch/dinner, and family functions.

Pros: Food, Service, Ambiance

Cons: noisy when busy

Posted 12/22/06

I went to A.J. Maxwell's with several of my girlfriends after work for drinks and appetizers. I was impressed with the size of the bar/lounge area. It was packed and we still had room to mingle. The four of us sat at a bar table where we were served our drinks and apps by a very friendly waiter. We actually had 2 waiters, each very nice and attentive. Instead of the usual bar food, we chowed down on steak sandwiches, dim sum, lillipop lamb chops, and finger licking fried calamari. The drinks, although they seemed expensive, we re huge and worth it. My friends had a great time, maybe a bit tipsy, but we all had a blast. The bar, packed with handsome men, is a great place to meet men. They were friendly, generous and fun. I will be back with the rest of the crew.

Pros: good looking men, large drinks, ample space, good food

Cons: none

Posted 12/22/06

I heard so much about this place that I had to try it. I just so happen to be in the city last weekend with my wife and stopped by. I had no reservations, and the place was full. The hostess and front desk staff did their best to get me a table without a long wait. We were drinking at the bar when someone from the front desk came to find us to let me know that our table was ready. Although the place was packed, the server came over right away and got our drinks, made some dinner suggestions, & took our order. We watched the servers and management hustling and bustling to make sure everyone was happy properly served. This impressed me. It made me feel we didn't get lost in the crowd. Our food was brought out promptly. The seafood platter was a masterpiece on ice. The lobster, shrimp and crabmeat freash and plump. Our salads that followed were crisp and original. The steaks, juicy, tender and bursting with flavor. We didn't need the bernaise or au poive sauce to enhance the flavor of the meat. It was my wifes birthday, and
I alerted the team at the front desk, and much to both of our surprises, a slew of waiters broke out in a very harmonious Happy Birthday, led by our very attentive waiter Mario. Coffe and cake, were compliments of the house due to her birthday celebration. All I can say is that A.J. Maxwell's knows how to treat their customers. We left smiling and contented.

Pros: accomated us without reservations, delicious food, warm, friendly servers

Posted 12/22/06

Ate at Maxwell's on a Saturday night with reservations in December. Highly recommend reservations if eating on a Sat in Dec - wait was probably 1 hour.

DINING ROOM
Dining room is typical NY - get as many tables as you can in a space. We were rubbing elbows all night but the parties next to us were nice. Room is very noisy but with that many people in the room - it's not going to be quiet.

FOOD
We had a gorgonzola salad and shrimp cocktail for appetizers. The shrimp cocktail was $18 for 4 "jumbo" shrimp. The presentation was 4 large, not 'jumbo' by any stretch, shrimp on a bowl filled with small cubed ice with dipping sauces. The ice chips kept falling on the table - was a little annoying and overall was a little disappointed for $18. Wife had the filet - and I opted for the Rib-Eye. Wife ordered medium well which we were told would have a slight pink center. Her steak was well-done. My rib-eye was cooked correctly and big and tasted ok. Maxwells seems to char their steaks which is why I understand other reviewers comments about the steaks being burnt. Some places will sear the meat - Maxwells seems to go full out char. It is a cooking style I guess - I found it ok and the meat had a different taste but wife did not like it - it is a preference. We ordered two sides - mashed potatoes and broccoli. The sides were ok - again not great.

WINE AND DESSERT
Split the creme Brule which was very good. Offered a vast selection of wines and very good choices.

WAIT STAFF
Our waiter was ok - very rushed - not too interested in us as a two-top but he was working with a full house.

CONCLUSION
The restaurant is a typical NY steak house and is pricey. The presentation of the meals was non-existent - for $290 for two people I thought I would have been able to say 'that was interesting' at least at a dessert or part of the meal. Since the food was just ok - I would have to say other places I've been seem to be just as good and a whole lot cheaper.

Posted 12/10/06

All I can say is that I was pretty disappointed. I asked for a medium well porter house steak - well I guess that was the wrong thing to do. Not sure what grill they use but it was burnt on both sides, completely black. It tasted awful. My co-worker ordered filet mignon, same way. I guess they do not know how to cook it other than rare. Really disappointed. The place is loud, nothing romantic about it unless you go there for lunch. Grand Marnier $14.00 per shot....Now let's be real..

Pros: Non

Cons: Loud and Bad Steak - Burnt not even charbroiled. Look like they took it out of a fire...

Posted 12/03/06

WOW! What a nice place. Upon arrival we were greeted and seated immediatley. The staff was very friendly, the atmosphere was casual yet elegant, the restaurant was clean. All the makings of a happy visit.
The food was delicious, the servings tremendous! Very impressed.

The ladies room was clean, HUGE- large vanity area w/ seating separate from the lavatories. So nice to find a "real" bathroom in NYC, not a coat closet!
Within walking distance to Radio City, we highly recommend this restaurant. Can't wait to go back.

Pros: Fast, Friendly Service. Plenty of elbow room. Clean. Delicious food.

Cons: Sort of expensive. Steep steps to bathrooms. Small tables. (they offer larger tables though).

Posted 10/22/06