Chez Max Turns 20 – A Quiet Milestone Full of Heart

Opened in 2005, Chez Max sprinkles Dublin with unmistakable Parisian flair.

Publié le 5 août 2025, mis à jour le 7 août 2025

Whether you settle into the snug dining room, watch the city go by from the terrace facing Dublin Castle, or slip into the leafy back patio, every corner feels like a mini-break in France. Two decades of marrying Gallic style with Irish warmth have turned the restaurant into a local landmark.

A Heartfelt Toast to 20 Years

Last month, Chez Max quietly marked a very special moment—their 20th anniversary. The celebration was kept intimate, filled with emotion, pride, and deep gratitude for the journey so far.
Of course, their beloved vintage car, the Peugeot 404 convertible, made an appearance—an icon as much a part of Chez Max as the team itself. All 25 members of staff gathered for the occasion, making the moment both meaningful and special.

In true Chez Max fashion, there was a surprise on the menu: a proper cheesecake—I MEAN a real one—with five impressive tiers. Merci to Head Chef Gary Tilley for making it a showstopper. The wonderful Barbara McCarthy captured the moment beautifully with her photography, helping immortalise the celebration. And, of course, a proper champagne toast was led by General Manager Hugo and Max himself—because no milestone is complete without bubbles.

The team was deeply moved by the kind words and thoughtful gifts from their long-time suppliers, and the heartfelt reactions on social media meant the world to them. It was a celebration made even more special by the warmth shown from near and far.

From Dublin Debut to Global Inspiration

Chez Max first opened its doors in 2005 as Dublin’s very first French bistro, bringing Parisian charm and timeless dishes like croque monsieur, crème brûlée, and beef bourguignon to the city.
Over the years, the restaurant has evolved without ever losing its soul. From updating the interiors with authentic Parisian-style décor and vintage furniture to recently fully redesigning and fitting a brand-new kitchen, Chez Max has always strived to improve, both for the team and its guests.

But Chez Max is more than a French bistro—it’s a Story. A place where many talented, passionate individuals have passed through, working hard and leaving behind memories (some of them, it must be said, are best kept as secrets!).

It has also become a place of inspiration across the world. Several former team members have gone on to launch their ventures, taking with them the lessons and energy of Chez Max. Among them are Tartines French Café & Deli by Camille, now thriving in Wellington, New Zealand, or Bed & Bistrot Chez Rita by Terence in Cotonou, Benin. Stories like these are a source of immense pride for the team.

Accolades—and a Sprinkle of Romance

Two years ago, Chez Max was honoured with international recognition, receiving the World’s French Restaurant Award from the Association Française des Maîtres Restaurateurs. A quiet but powerful reminder that a French bistro in Dublin can shine on the global stage—when built with heart, craft, and consistency.

Chez Max is also something of a matchmaker. Over the years, countless love stories (many couples!) have begun within its walls, resulting in a few weddings and (wait for it)… THREE babies! The team is proud to have played a small part in so many personal journeys.

Reinventing tradition: modern innovations at Chez Max

Reinvention runs in Chez Max’s veins. A recent overhaul tripled the kitchen’s footprint, adding kits such as sous-vide baths that let Chef Gerry Thilley’s crew push technique while still sourcing meat and produce close to home. Signature plates like Duck Magret still rely on slow-cooked reduction sauce, but the new layout means faster service and more playful plating.

Our service hours are as deliciously ambitious as the menu. Weekday mornings start light and fresh with Natural Yoghurt and Fruit Compote, House Nuts Granola, Toasted Sourdough with Butter & Jam, and Ham & Emmental Croissants — all served before 10:15 am.

On weekends, things ease into a laid-back brunch, where egg dishes like the Bacon & Fried Egg Waffle, Mushroom Toast with Poached Truffle Egg, and Poached Eggs with Haddock — along with hearty options like Chez Max’s Burger and a selection of timeless French classics. All sit happily alongside pâtisserie-style desserts like café gourmand.

And every afternoon, we serve up French-style tapas to bridge the gap to dinner — think Fried Whitebait with Lemon Aioli, Gambas à la Plancha, Traditional Dry-Cured Sausage, generous cheese & charcuterie boards, and a few other treats we won’t spoil just yet.

The team continues to refine and improve, updating their website, staying active on social media, and investing in guest comfort with new al fresco chairs, tables, and thoughtful touches throughout.
The story of Chez Max is still being written—growing, evolving, and getting better every day. And they’ll keep doing it, for all of you. WISHING CHEZ MAX ANOTHER 20 YEARS OF SUCCESS!!!

Chez Max offerings

Breakfast | Mon–Fri, 8:00–10:15 am
Lunch | Mon–Fri, 12:00–3:00 pm. Includes a changing plat du jour
Afternoon Menu | Mon–Fri, 2:30–5:00 pm. Tapas-style nibbles to share
Brunch | Sat & Sun, 11:00 am–3:30 pm
Early Bird Menu | Mon–Thurs, 5:00–6:00 pm – €29.90. Ideal before gigs or theatre
Dinner | Daily from 5:00 pm to 9:00/10:00 pm. 2 or 3-course set menu at 39.90/44.90