Is Max’s Bar and Grill from Kitchen Nightmares Still Open in 2025?
In 1928, Max’s Bar and Grill originated as Max’s Famous Hot Dogs in Long Branch, New Jersey. Jennifer Maybaum inherited the business from her father in 2013 and rebranded it in 2018. Over time, food quality deteriorated under the leadership of her ex-husband, Chef Jake. With debts piling up, the legacy built upon the blood, sweat, and tears of three generations was at stake.
Chef Gordon Ramsay came to the rescue and overhauled the menu. Hot dogs remained the staple food item. As of 2024, Max’s Bar and Grill is still open and inching closer to its centennial milestone. Read on to discover how this place has prospered following Gordon’s signature transformation.
Table of Content
Reputation of Max’s Bar and Grill After Kitchen Nightmares
Local Support and Reaction to Gordon Ramsay’s Criticism
As a coast-side restaurant, Max’s Bar and Grill is usually packed with customers in summer and business slows down as winter approaches. The nostalgia and past glory of the place still have its patrons falling head over heels. Long-time customers admire Jennifer for courageously taking the plunge to save her iconic eatery.
This food spot’s decadent hot dogs remain the top pick among the locals. Fans weren’t amused by Gordon’s assessment of their go-to snack and didn’t hold back on social media. They commended the hot dogs and taunted Ramsay for being oblivious to their food traditions.
Customer Reviews
Max’s Bar and Grill enjoys a 4-star rating on Google reviews. It has lower ratings of 3.5 stars on Tripadvisor and 3.3 stars on Yelp. The reviews have significantly improved since Gordon’s visit, reflecting prompt progress. Many customers praise the new menu, comfortable sitting area, and friendly staff.
However, concerns about high costs exist. There are a few reports about subpar food and aggressive behavior from servers. On a positive note, Jennifer personally addresses negative feedback and promises diligent service in exchange for another chance for her restaurant.
Recognition From Public Figures
John Fox, co-founder of the annual New Jersey Hot Dog Tour, expressed his affinity for Max’s Bar and Grill in the Facebook group, Jersey Hot Dog Joints. He acknowledged the high prices of Max’s Hot Dogs but rated them as top tier among the over 200 hot dogs he had sampled.
American Rock Singer Bruce Springsteen visited the restaurant on 11th August 2024. Their Instagram page disclosed that Bruce ordered five dozen hot dogs to take out.
Owner’s Thoughts about the Appearance of Max’s Bar and Grill on Kitchen Nightmares
According to a feature in Asbury Park Press, Jennifer had applied for Kitchen Nightmares because she needed assistance in creating a new menu. She was eager to bring in more customers during the off-season. Upon relaunch, the fresh makeover was highlighted on the Facebook page of Max’s Bar and Grill.
This experience made Jennifer realize the importance of embracing change and she began to look forward to customer feedback. She later bragged that diners preferred their original hot dogs over the ones Gordon had introduced.
Later Developments at Max’s Bar and Grill
Operational Updates
Max’s Bar and Grill has initiated two recruitment campaigns since the Kitchen Nightmares renovation. Cooks and other back-of-the-house staff were sought for in May and July 2024.
On 17th June 2024, the restaurant was closed until noon for maintenance. No further information about these operations has been shared online.
Special Events and Entertainment
On 17th July 2024, National Hot Dog Day was celebrated at the restaurant. Locals were invited to savour a Classic Combo. For $15, it featured a delectable Hot Dog with crispy Onion rings, Golden Fries, and a refreshing soda. The meal could be upgraded with a Draft Deer for an additional $4.
Presently, regular live music performances are winning over more customers. The Facebook and Instagram pages of Max’s Bar and Grill keep their clientele informed about upcoming events.
The events at Max’s Bar and Grill include:
- Karaoke Nights.
- Costume Contests.
- Sip and Paint Nights.
- Community Toy Drive.
- Cheerleader Fundraisers.
- Night Football Watch Parties.
- Old School Music Throwback Parties.
The eatery is usually open on local holidays. Some of their gatherings accommodate pets along with caretakers. A closing party is organized at Max’s Bar and Grill just before Christmas, marking the end of peak season.
Menu and Service Availability
The food menu at Max’s Bar and Grill consists of Chicken Wings, Caesar Salads, Chicken and Grilled Cheese Sandwiches, Hamburgers, Truffle Fries, and Desserts. A wide variety of Hot Dogs are served with Coleslaw, Sauerkraut, and spicy relishes. Surf N’ Turf Grilled Hot Dog, topped with lobster meat and drawn butter is the most expensive hot dog on the menu, available for $20.
The food joint is temporarily shut down in winter, and business resumes in spring. Their timings are subject to change and the bar opens at a later time than the kitchen.
Recent summer kitchen hours are advertised as follows:
- Sunday — Thursday: 11:00 AM to 09:00 PM
- Friday — Saturday: 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Moreover, the official website of Max’s Bar and Grill is no longer functional as their domain has expired.
Owner’s Life Highlights
On 6th January 2024, Jennifer took a cooking class with her son. She occasionally puts up photos of her children on her social media. Her close ones receive exclusive updates about the restaurant through her Facebook and Instagram pages. Jennifer also seems to be on good terms with Jake.
Conclusion
The unity between Jennifer and Jake appears to be swiftly driving Max’s Bar and Grill to success. A customer-first approach to restaurant management and active social media marketing are aiding them in this journey. The history of resilience and dedication associated with the restaurant has established it as a local landmark.
Where can you watch Kitchen Nightmares? You can watch Kitchen Nightmares on Fox.
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