Recognized for excellence in service with the 2008 Fresno Magazine Best Service Award.

Max’s is a family. A collaboration of ideas and passions. A culmination of talent. And a love for food and for people – in a place where everyone is heard including the customer.

Familiarity and consistency – two big words for the simple ingredients that define our service. The staff is friendly and approachable, professional and knowledgeable – without fail. They have come, and they have stayed a part of the Max’s family for many years.

SCOTT STANLEY, OWNER

After owning and operating the City Café and Yogurt Mill, Scott turned his efforts into a little gourmet café called Max’s Market and Bakery, whose staple was freshly baked, all-natural artisan bread.

Scott’s immense creativity and vision brought about a sense of tradition, quality, and family in a community, and in a neighborhood that he has lived in most of his life.

It is because of his respect and intense enthusiasm for quality cuisine and service that good people have come and have stayed a part of the Max’s family.

Today, Max’s Bistro and Bar is just as accessible, humble and remarkably good as the original – and Max’s signature bread, a staple in grocery stores and restaurants throughout Central and Northern California, is now handcrafted off-site at Max’s Bakery.

JJ WETTSTEAD, GM

Max’s staff is led by General Manger J.J. Wettstead, who started working in the restaurant business at 15 years old, searching to be a part of something he believed in.  He found it.

“I discovered my passion at Max’s. And it is an honor to inspire and be inspired by the staff as we carry out Scott’s vision of upscale dining in Fresno.”

SCOTT SAUER, HEAD CHEF

“I don’t know how to do anything else. And I love what I do.”

And that’s perfectly fine with us. Originally from the central California coast, Scott Sauer, head chef of 4 years, brings innovation and constant reinvention to Max’s eclectic menu – taking comfort food to new heights and making Max’s seafood specials the #1-selling dish. His passion for fresh, quality and local ingredients is unwavering.

HEATHER AVAKIAN, LEAD SERVER

Heather’s passion for food and for people goes far beyond customer service – you can see it in her smile, her laugh, and in the sincere relationships she has with customer and co-worker alike.

“I just love my job. I love all the people. I love the food here. I eat here every day. Tell me what you need to know, I eat here every day.”