Just two blocks south of the Peachtree Center MARTA
stop, Max Lager's is a dependable source of tasty craft brews in
Hot'lanta. Downstairs hosts the 19 barrel DME brewing system, a bar, and the
main dining area while upstairs offers a very relaxed atmosphere. At the top of
the stairs lie six 16.5 barrel shiny copper unitank fermenters and six serving
tanks along the interior brick walls. 15 feet above, the black ceiling and its
tin ductwork glow from the myriad tiny white Christmas tree lights strung about
overhead. A light wood "full" bar with wood chairs zig-zags against the far
wall, three TVs booming the latest sporting events. Two six-tap towers pour the
house beers while Bud bottles lurk out of site below. Rows of 10-place tall
tables and stools populate the floor. Two dartboards offer the entertainment
attraction while the outdoor patio offers a dozen tables for the
UV-appreciative crowd.
Although the full bar does
serve Bud bottles, it is the house beers that brings the repeat business. The
Max Gold, at 4.9% and 35 IBUs, offers a gold appearance with a delicate
and crisp hop bitterness asserting itself on the tongue. The Max Pale,
5.7% and 55 IBUs, is gold-colored, medium-bodied, with a pronounced hop aroma
and flavor where the hops bitterness carries into the finish. The Max
Red is clear amber with a medium body, dry maltiness and subtle hops (22
IBUs). The ESB is gold with a smooth mouthfeel, mellow hop-over-malt
flavor balance and slightly hoppy finish. The seasonal Maibock (18 IBUs
& 5.9%) is also gold, with a soft mouthfeel, sharp black patent flavor,
slightly roasted character and very dry finish. The ruby-colored Nitro-blend
Stout offers a very creamy head with a light creamy body, and very
smooth malty flavor.
The lunch menu ends around
five but before it does the Salmon BLT is a great treat. The beer sampler
offers six four-ounce tasters for $5.95. The ten-ounce glasses are $2.95 and
the 18-ounce "pints" $5.95. Wheelchair access is provided via elevator. While
service is not "speedy", the staff is very friendly and the Rock & Roll
tunes create an upbeat setting for enjoying quality beers in the heart of
downtown. A note to travellers: for a $1.50 token you can be at the brewpub
within 20 minutes of catching the MARTA at Atlanta's Hartsfiled
Airport.
Reviewed by Tom Ciccateri - April,
2000
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Max Lager's
320 Peachtree
Street
Atlanta, GA 30308
404-525-4400
map
Home
Brewpub
Reviews