Finding a spot that actually delivers on the "upscale-casual" promise in South Florida is harder than it looks. Most places either feel like a stiff country club or a loud sports bar. But honestly, Burt & Max's restaurant Delray has managed to sit right in the sweet spot since it opened back in 2013. It’s located in the Delray Marketplace, way out west on Atlantic Avenue, which means it’s the go-to for locals who don't want to fight for parking on the Avenue downtown.
You've probably seen it. Huge outdoor patio, fire pit, and that massive single-slab wood bar that looks like it weighs about five tons. It’s part of Burt Rapoport’s group—the guy is a legend in the Florida food scene—and he teamed up with Dennis Max to create this. They aren't trying to reinvent the wheel here. They’re just doing modern American food with a brick oven and some surprisingly global tweaks.
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The Food: It’s More Than Just Burgers
People come for the burgers, and yeah, they’re solid. The "Double Smash Burger" is a staple. But if you only get a burger, you’re kinda missing the point of the menu.
One of the weirdest—but best—things on the menu is the "Onion Soup" Dumplings. They take the flavors of a classic French onion soup, reduce it down into a sherry-infused nectar, and stuff it into a dumpling topped with cave-aged gruyère. It’s rich. It’s messy. It’s basically a requirement for your first visit.
They also lean heavily into their brick oven. You’ll see pizzas coming out constantly, but the roasted vegetables are where the oven really shines. The Crispy Brussels Sprouts come with a pepper jam glaze and pancetta. The goat cheese on top cuts through the sweetness of the jam. It’s the kind of dish that makes people who hate vegetables actually finish the plate.
For the main course, the Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf is the ultimate "I’ve had a long day" meal. You can get it two ways: with BBQ glaze and cheddar-scallion whipped potatoes, or the "old school" way with mushroom gravy and broccoli. Most regulars go for the BBQ version. If you want something lighter, the Yellowfin Tuna Poke bowl is actually fresh—not that "pre-packaged" stuff you find at fast-casual spots. They use sushi-grade tuna, avocado, and a spicy aioli that has just enough kick.
The West Delray Vibe
If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic candlelit dinner where you can hear a pin drop, this probably isn't it. Especially on weekend nights. The place gets loud. It’s a "community" spot. You’ll see families with kids (they have a legit kids' menu), couples on dates, and golfers who just finished 18 holes.
The design is modern industrial. Lots of natural finishes and open space. Honestly, the patio is the place to be if the humidity isn't at 100%. They have a doggie menu too, so people actually bring their pups and sit by the fire pit. It’s very "West Delray lifestyle."
When to Actually Go
Happy hour is where the value is. They run it daily until 6:30 PM at the bar and high tops. It’s one of the better deals in the area because they don't just discount the cheap stuff; you get deals on signature cocktails and select spirits.
- Monday - Friday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM (until 10 PM on Fridays)
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Brunch starts at 11:30 AM)
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Brunch starts at 11:00 AM)
Brunch is a whole different beast here. While everyone else is doing basic pancakes, Burt & Max's is serving "Warm Carnegie Deli Blintzes" and "Breakfast Quesadillas" with chipotle honey aioli. If you're feeling adventurous, try the "Frozen Mimosa." It’s made with orange sherbet and prosecco. You can even get it "loaded" with vanilla vodka if you really want to lean into the weekend.
What Most People Get Wrong
The biggest misconception is that it’s just another chain restaurant because it’s in a shopping center. It isn't. Rapoport’s Restaurant Group is local to Boca/Delray. They own Deck 84 and Prezzo too. There’s a level of "neighborhood" feel here that you don't get at the big national chains.
Also, don't sleep on the "Wines-Days" or whatever they're calling the wine specials lately. Usually, on Mondays and Wednesdays, you can snag half-priced bottles of wine with an entrée. In an area where a glass of Napa Cab can run you $18, that's a massive win.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
- Park in the back: The front of Delray Marketplace is always a mess. There’s plenty of free parking, but the valet is only about $8 if you're in a rush.
- Order the "Small Plates" for the table: The menu is designed for sharing. Get the Cornbread with honey butter and the Spinach & Cheese dip.
- Book a table on OpenTable: Even on a Tuesday, this place can fill up. Don't just walk in at 7:00 PM and expect a seat immediately.
- Check the "In The Biz" specials: If you work in the industry, they usually have "In The Biz" Sundays with deep discounts.
- Look for "Steve Buddha Mann": He's the General Manager and a local legend. He’s been with the group for years and actually cares about the service. If something isn't right, he’ll fix it.
Whether you're there for the Korean Steak Bowl or just a quick beer at the outdoor bar, Burt & Max's manages to feel like a neighborhood joint despite being in a giant commercial plaza. It's consistent. That’s the real secret to why they've lasted over a decade while other spots in the Marketplace have come and gone.