Burt & Max’s – Delray’s Gem Where Gold-Standard Service Meets Fresh Flavors

After a morning meeting in Delray Beach, Doris and I were on the hunt for a new lunch spot. We cruised through the buzzing Delray Marketplace and spotted Burt & Max’s (9089 Atlantic Ave)—a place we’d passed for years, always saying, “We’ll try it next time.” Well, today was that day, and let me tell you, it was worth the wait. The vibe inside was upscale but cozy, with warm lighting and a chic layout perfect for a refined, yet relaxed meal. A window menu boasting Happy Hour from open to six sealed the deal.

The service sealed the deal. We met Joey R., our server, who turned this lunch into something special—his service was textbook good. My root beer was poured tableside with a satisfying fizz—such a cool touch. We started with the Lettuce Wraps—crisp bibb lettuce cups packed with quinoa, shiitakes, scallions, and Asian slaw, drizzled with sweet chili hoisin that hit sweet, spicy, and savory just right. The freshness was beyond expectation, every bite popped with quality. Joey’s attentiveness, including swapping out silverware between courses, was the gold standard.

For the main course, Doris went for the Salmon-Shrimp Burger, which was grilled to juicy perfection on an oat kaiser bun with a zesty lemon-caper remoulade. The sweet potato fries on the side were golden and crisp—a total win. I chose the Thai Chicken Salad, a vibrant mix of baby spinach, arugula, edamame, mandarin oranges, and crispy wontons, all tied together with a sesame vinaigrette that was light yet bold. The ingredients were so fresh, the portions generous, and the flavors just sang. We ended with Joey’s expert pick, the warm Triple Chocolate Turtle Brownie Sundae—pure decadence, a home run that left us grinning.

The food at Burt & Max’s is top-tier, showcasing fresh, high-quality ingredients in every dish. But Joey R.’s service? That’s what made this meal unforgettable. This spot has truly earned its place as a must-visit Delray gem.

The ultimate FOMO moment comes from delaying your visit and missing out on the gold-standard service provided by Joey R. and the sheer decadence of the warm Triple Chocolate Turtle Brownie Sundae, which define this refined, flavor-packed Delray gem.

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