I had my birthday dinner here. Besides the food being amazing, the ambiance is great as well. They turned unused outdoor space into a pavilion. During Covid they set up some tables to accommodate the seating capacity. Since then they have made the pavilion space enclosed and extremely comfortable for large groups. We were a group of 14, the staff was extremely friendly and professional. I ordered the pork chops with hot cherry peppers. The portion was huge and the pork chops were cooked perfectly. My wife ordered the steak which was cooked medium rare just the way she ordered it. It had a nice char and was amazing. We had gotten appetizer's for the table, the octopus was tasty and was not rubbery which I have experienced at a few other places. Calamari is fresh and not greasy. Had the pecan pie for dessert. Perfect close for the meal. read more

They're open during weekdays. Everyone should eat here. Hopefully, they'll get draft beer soon. read more

Max's Es-Ca - Menus - Italian Near Me - Staten Island, New York

So this is my first review... here i go! the food was delicious particularly the seafood linguini. The plate was huge and it came out quickly. Maybe too quickly! Probably because the waitress done forgot to put our appetizers in. She said whoopsie that was my fault. I think Christine was her name. I couldn't understand fully with her lisp. So like duh its your fault but the food looked tasty so we just ate it and the owner gave us dessert. I would go back but ask for a different server read more

My family and I decided to come to this restaurant on a whim, and I am so glad we did. Firstly they don't accept reservations until after 9 pm and it's street parking. We made a reservation for 9 pm, and we're seated promptly by the hostess Mia who was extremely sweet. They have plenty of outside seating and also provide indoor seating. We were seated outside, and the area was beautiful. Our waiter was Peter, and he was accommodating and attentive. A+ service, he recommended the Chicken Rollatine, and it was delicious. My mom ordered the salmon, which she says was also delicious. Peter then suggested the carrot cake, which we tried because his previous recommendations were as described, and let me say the carrot cake did not disappoint. It was nothing like I've ever had before. The drinks were delicious. We also shared the blueberry bread pudding, which was light and not too sweet. My sister and I had the margaritas (spicy, peach, and ginger). All delicious but the peach was my favorite. To end the night my sister has the expresso martini, and my mom and I had the cappuccino (iced and hot). Overall we were very pleased with our experience and will be back soon. Definitely one of Staten Island's hidden gems. read more

See all

Honestly, I didn't even know this place existed before they started outdoor dining after COVID-19 even though I drove by it pretty often. It was great! All servers & hostesses in masks, tables far apart, ambiance was cozy and romantic, music was good and not overbearing. The service was amazing. We had multiple servers who weren't assigned to our table come to our us to ask how everything was going and whether or not we needed anything. Our waiter was funny and attentive and friendly. The service was very fast. We even got a free drink because our entrees came too FAST. As for the food, everything was well above average. And we are pretty spoiled with our food quality. Appetizers- we got burrata, which was young and soft and flavorful and on a plate of yummy greens and tomatoes with a balsamic glaze. We also got the tuna tartare which a server recommended, which was so yummy with avocados on top and chips on the side. Entrees- i got the seafood linguini. If you are a seafood person, 100000% get this. Had a huge mix of seafood and pasta and a really great red sauce. My boyfriend got the beef Wellington, which was soft and tender and tasted amazing. Highly recommend. For dessert I got beignets which are homemade donuts with raspberry jam inside and three sauces to dip them in... soooo good. I'm usually not a fan of donuts or fruit fillings but even I LOVED this. My boyfriend got the peanut butter chocolate bread pudding which was a special and it was so rich and not artificially flavored at all. So so so amazing. All in all, my mind is blown. This place was incredible. read more

See all

Came here for a family dinner where we were politely greeted and seated right away. They have a lovely outdoor setup with large tents lined with lights, fans, and even some chandeliers! We sat in the back of the restaurant where we were immediately served glasses of ice water and a complimentary bread basket. Our waitress was pleasant and accommodating. We started our dinner with pan seared scallops and fried calamari. Although the serving was small (three scallops as a "sharable appetizer" for a family of four didn't seem sufficient), the scallops were tender and perfectly cooked. The cream sauce was divine and the hint of bacon complimented the dish well. The fried calamari was yummy and crunchy, but nothing out of the ordinary. It tasted the same as every other calamari dish I've ever ordered. The marinara sauce that accompanied it was supposed to be spicy, but it didn't taste it. The seafood entrees, however, were definitely worth it! I stole a bite of the Branzino and Salmon dishes and both were equally remarkable; the tastes were exquisite! The seafood linguini was delicious as well, but the sauce was a little too salty and I believed the pasta had been a bit overcooked. If I were to return, I suppose I'd stick to order that Branzino instead of the pasta. While the food is fairly decent and the ambiance is welcoming, the service is slow. It took approximately 45 minutes for only the appetizers to arrive and then almost an hour thereafter for our dinner! read more

See all

We ordered delivery. We're trying to support local restaurants. This place is fantastic. Gourmet quality food right up there with 5 star restaurants. We had the beef Wellington and Tortellini Carbonara. I swear it was one of the best meals we ever had. Try them you won't be disappointed. read more

Pass by today for a quick lunch (linner) so let me start by letting everyone know Max Esca has to be one of the nicest most professional staff like family restaurants in the area. Food and service superb. Great experience I felt totally safe there. They even have the coolest outdoor seating. better than a tent wedding heated real wood floors great job guys. Ps John is amazing handling the bar and making tasty cocktails. Pass by check this place out worth the trip. read more

Max's Es-Ca - Partial menu - Italian Near Me - Staten Island, New York

See all

Back for a second year to enjoy our family Thanksgiving dinner and it was amazing! the food and friendly service was exceptiona! I would recommend Max's Es-Ca to everyone! read more

Max's Es-Ca !! Is a must for eating out, enjoying a wonderful meal and feeling safe. They got this right. We celebrated my daughter's birthday on Thursday evening. We arrived right on time for our reservation and were seat quickly. They had several fans set up under the test to ensure air flow and keep use comfortable on a warm night. Then it began to rain, no pour and guest what we were dry and comfortable and the food was served perfectly. There was even a moment when the light/power went out. OH! And the food was AMAZING!!!!. Everyone's food concerns were met with a smile and added suggestions. If you are looking for a place to go during these trying time I highly recommend Max's Es-Ca. Five stars for food, staff, and the entire evening. read more

Both dishes were amazing. Oysters amazing, presentation amazing as well as service. Patricio runs table like god, flawless! Definitely our new favorite place not to mention the life jazz band! read more

Went on Christmas Eve and was not disappointed at all !!! The server was very attentive and personable.The appetizers took quite a while and the clams oreganata were cold but we didn't mention it as it was very crowded and we just ate them as they were. The main courses were very good and the desserts were exceptional read more

The short ribs entree with risotto was exceptional. But the appetizers were not as good. The eggplant in the rollatini was not cooked enough. Baked clams and calamari were nothing special, bland. The service was very good. read more

WOW! Been there several times for dinner and a few private parties. Food has always been fresh and delicious. They never disappoint!

Still as good as ever! Always enjoy our dinners here. Wait staff are friendly and always accommodating read more

See all

I went with a group of five and we were all pleased with our meals. Next visit to Staten Island....

Food, service and atmosphere always absolutely the best.. stick to simple coctails. seafood super fresh, steak to perfect temp. super accommodating staff, outside dine up to the nines. read more

Max's Es-Ca - Italian Near Me - Staten Island, New York

Great food. 12 of us had just about everything on the menu. Calamari salty but addictive. Discrepancies with the check. Was charged with 3 items we had not received but was rectified quickly by our server Dan. Double triple check your bill. Don't use the bathroom. Super duper LOUD!!! read more

Food is amazing. Me and my husband have gone on Saturdays when there is a DJ. Great atmosphere. Staff is friendly.

Had a really great time there last night. Appetizers and main courses were great. Service was impeccable. Our waitress Daniele was great. Desserts awesome! read more

Max's Es-Ca - Italian Near Me - Staten Island, New York

See all

Excellent service, menu is complete with specials and the bar is always packed. Local hangout, favorite Friday night spot! Live music on weekends, and outdoor seating. read more

Max's Es-Ca - Nommm nommm - hazelnut ice cream cream puffs ! - Italian Near Me - Staten Island, New York

See all

Had dinner at Esca's Saturday night and it was amazing!!!!! Me and my wife shared the tuna tartare and oysters appetizers. They were both of the charts good. Tuna was so fresh and oysters were delicious. Bartender John makes great drinks as we had the espresso martini and watermelon Margarita. Server Tommy was extremely attentive and took great care of us. Owners max and alison Do great job, they are constantly checking on tables to make sure their customers are satisfied. Had the Tomahawk for dinner and it was excellent. Cooked to perfection, will def be back just for that. And for dessert we shared the pecan pie which was out of this world. Can't wait to go back !!!!! read more

What is all the hype? Well this place is not what's up! I went for lunch with my family. The atmosphere is ok and just ok. The most important thing to me was the food! I ordered the pork chops which were seriously lathered in balsamic vinegar. (Disgusting) We also ordered the beef Wellington and the OVERPRICED jumbo shrimps (you get 4) and the SUPER OVER PRICED spring rolls! Let me say that EVERYTHING is overpriced for no good reason. I mean there are tons of places that you can eat at so why choose this one? Maybe its the name which is quite cool at best. But honestly, I cant recommend this place to any of my family or friends. Now some people just get hooked on these new eateries that appear to be trendy. And over time the word of mouth hype morphs into something that seems to be positive but in reality is not. I believe that this is one of those restaurants. Save yourself some money and visit one of the many other fine establishments on Staten Island. And if you can't find a good place to eat, go into Brooklyn or New York City which will be worth the trip for some seriously great food. Don't fall for the hype on this one. read more

See all

This is the best italian restaurant I have ever been to! Everyone was so nice and accommodating. My server was Gregory and he provided absolutely amazing service! 10/10 Recommend read more

Food was amazing. The rack of lamb was out of this world. Service is always top notch. Can't say enough good things about this place. read more

See all

Night Life Lives here...! Saturday night Bartenders FRIENDLY & quite talented. Singles, couples and loners are all well-received. I will return with a BIG red-lipstick smile & sexy high gladiators next time. Class Act. Recommendation by a bff and am I HAPPY I took her word. KUDOS to management. read more

Max's Es-Ca - Italian Near Me - Staten Island, New York

First time here yesterday. The server was a darling woman. Very attentive and kind. Outdoor seating was nice. The red sangria was pretty good. The complimentary bread was warm and yummy with a garlic olive oil. The fried calamari was fresh and delicious. The beef Wellington took a long time to come out but was worth the wait. The chicken spinach fettuccine Alfredo was very good. We got complimentary dessert because of the wait, chocolate peanut butter bread pudding. It was insanely good. I will definitely return. read more

Max's Es-Ca - Chocolate peanut butter bread pudding. Delicious! - Italian Near Me - Staten Island, New York

We were so impress with the fabulous food and great service. We come to visit the restaurant all the way from California and I am sure that we will be back. read more

See all

Lots of seating and they allow pets. Food was good. Definitely going back. They have an outside bar with outside bathrooms like you are at beach club. read more

I can't say enough wonderful things about Max'sEsca. I had my retirement party there yesterday. Even though it was a relatively small party, we were given top notch attention and the food was five star quality. From the moment we arrived, they staff couldn't do enough for us. They were constantly coming by to see if we need anything. The event ran perfectly. Thank you all at Max'sEsca for helping to make my day perfect! read more

Very good food and service. We came here for a birthday dinner and tried a bunch of different dishes all of which were excellent! The outdoor seating was also really nice read more

Super great... staff, food, and ambiance. Love it!! Always consistent and always fresh

We have been here for dinner several times. It is the best restaurant on Staten Island! We just held our first party here in the most beautiful outdoor (year round) tent! Beautifully decorated. Phenomenal food, great prices and excellent service! Five stars! ***** read more

The service here is not horrible, but not exceptional either, for the amount of money they charge and forcing you to pay an automatic 20% tip the service should be nothing but exceptional. I went there for Mother's Day it was pretty busy however, the waitress started off great up until I asked for her service (olive oil) then all hell broke loose. She was cold, rude she just continued to give off 'can't you see how busy i am' vibes and lools of digust. I was scared to tell her I didn't enjoy my meal she recommended. She recommended the pork chops glazed with balsamic, mashed potatoes and spinach. The mash potatoes were cold and just yuck while the breadcrumbs on chops fell apart upon touching, the pork chop was so fat that two bites later you felt bloated and full. Desert was mediocre at best. I will not be returning here. I was shocked to get an almost $200 bill plus them forcing you to pay 20% tip!? Not even giving you the option to choose between 5%, 10%, 15% etc, which explains why the waitress didn't care about providing great services. I will not be going back. read more

Food is excellent. Server Jamie. Was probably the best waitress we've had in a long time. Service and a smile, loved it. Pasta fresh, fish fresh, drinks cold, desserts excellent. I will keep coming back, great atmosphere read more

Max's Es-Ca - Italian Near Me - Staten Island, New York

Excellent! Last week my sister won a 25 dollar gift card for this restaurant at a charity auction. This put this place on the map for us! She came here with her husband a week ago and loved it so much we had to try! We came here for lunch and there were so many good things to choose from in the menu I was confused! I wanted everything! My sister got the beef Wellington and I got rack of lamb following a shrimp and chorizo appetizer. There were no cutting corners here! It was all amazing! Fresh tasting, made to order, perfectly seasoned and the dessert was Devine!!! This is a great restaurant and wasn't even under our radar until my sister won the gift card! Now I can't wait to go back. read more

I had high expectations for the food but it honestly isn't anything special nor worth the money imo. The desserts however were *great*- we got the blueberry banana bread, the flourless chocolate cake w ice cream & the beignets! Our waitress was very attentive and sweet, and we didn't have to wait long at all for our food. It was an overall pleasant experience, just wish the food was better! read more

My husband and I celebrated our seven-year wedding anniversary at Max Es-ca. Our waiter, Gregory, was top notch and should probably be teaching his craft at a hospitality school somewhere. The food was absolutely amazing and beat every expectation we had. We will definitely be returning here and bringing friends with us next time. read more

Danny was the best waiter ever! He is so attentive and professional and he made our night. Thank you Danny and Max for an unforgettable time ! read more

This restaurant never disappoints. Food is amazing and service even better. It's become our Easter and Thanksgiving tradition. Highly recommended!! read more