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Maxim Chinese Food
Master Critic Review
Maxim Chinese Food
7.7
Maxim Chinese Food is a counter-service mainstay near Hollywood and Gower, known for big combo plates and Chinese-American classics at very low prices. It’s more about speed and value than atmosphere, but locals rely on it for orange chicken, fried rice, and chow mein lunches.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kung Pao Chicken, Wor Wonton Soup, Mongolian Beef
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Old-school counter spot doling out large, inexpensive Chinese-American combo plates.
Who should go: Budget-minded diners and nearby workers on lunch break.
When to visit: Weekday lunch rush for the fullest steam table selection.
What to order: Kung Pao chicken, wor wonton soup, Mongolian beef.
Insider tip: Combo plates stretch further if you split one entrée and add an extra side of fried rice to share.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Gower and side streets; usually manageable outside peak lunch hours.
Dress code: Completely casual—workwear, gym clothes, or everyday attire is standard.
Noise level: Low to moderate; mostly takeout traffic and short dine-in stays, so conversation is easy.
Weekend wait: Minimal waits; weekends are quieter compared to weekday lunch.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes during peak rush, mostly for the steam-table line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few vegetarian-friendly classics like broccoli dishes and mixed veggies, but selection is limited.
Vegan options: Very limited—most items contain sauces with animal products; best to ask directly for steamed vegetables and plain rice.
Gluten-free options: Low accommodations; many sauces contain soy sauce with gluten. Stick to steamed rice and simple vegetable dishes if necessary.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal unless your date appreciates no-frills counter spots; it’s built for speed and value, not ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations here. Seating is first-come, and turnover is quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple flavors, quick service, and low prices make it easy for families, though there are no high chairs or kid-specific amenities.
Best For
Better for: Large, inexpensive combo plates and fast service—ideal when price and speed matter more than atmosphere.
Skip if: You want regional Chinese cooking, a sit-down experience, or healthier/low-sodium options.