I recently made my first visit to the restaurant Maxie’s Southern Comfort, specializing in Creole and Cajun cooking from scratch. It has only been open for about a year, but has certainly made a name for itself among West Side and Downtown diners.

Located directly north of the 68th street exit from I-94, Maxie’s is a smoke free restaurant serving dinner until 11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, midnight Friday and Saturday, and 9 p.m. on Sunday. Most enticing is the raw bar of shrimp, clams and oysters flown in fresh five days a week. Happy hour decendents upon this cozy, yet modern and upscale spot every day from 4-6 p.m. offering half priced oysters, clams, shrimp and  fried green tomatoes as well as one dollar off all beer, wine and cocktails. 

For starters, we sampled the steamed littleneck clams in a garlic-butter broth, which were absolutely delicious. For my entrée, I ordered the halibut special served with a roasted potato and hearts of palm medley, finished off with a garnish of a light creamy dill sauce. In addition, we nibbled on the roasted red grape and watercress salad with goat cheese, crispy onions and bacon lardoons tossed in brown sugar vinaigrette. Our third dining companion ordered the classic fried chicken with tasso gravy and mashed potatoes. 

In true Southern fashion, the portions are generous; bordering huge and a seemingly healthy dish such as salad is complemented with fried onions and bacon lardoons. Everything was flavorful and fresh, combined with a friendly atmosphere that made for a lovely dining experience. We even received a visit from the owner who took the time to extol his favorite southern traditions and provide some recommendations, making his passion truly evident.

I will definitely return, probably for happy hour to indulge my love of seafood and for another taste of that southern hospitality.