Maxine's Chicken & Waffles

It was early and they were not yet open when they saw my wife and I lurking at the front counter. When I inquired when they would open, I was told they would be open in about an hour. The owner must’ve noted the hunger in my voice and stated that if we wanted the Chicken n’ Waffles he could serve us immediately. We got the food and it was spectacular. The chicken was crunchy but not overly breaded. It was seasoned well and moist. The waffle was light and had an amazing texture to it. Topped with their famous peach butter, I didn’t use any syrup. It was a great eating experience. During our meal we started talking to the owner and the other cook. We discovered that they were not open yet because they were preparing three different catering jobs for a total of about 400 people. While they were still working, they took the time to explain the restaurant’s history and even slipped a sample of yams to us (these are pie worthy waiting on the crust). We discovered that the current owner was an educator (my wife is a 30 year education vet) and he took over the business once the original owner, his grandmother Maxine, feel ill. The story of the food is worth the trip here BUT the quality of the food and service that is provided is worth your money. I felt a warmth in not only my belly, but in my heart as well. I don’t know if I’ve ever wanted to see an establishment succeed like I want them to. Do yourself a favor and get yourself some of this!

I've loved Maxine's for forever but this was my first time visiting at City market since they moved here. The menu has been scaled back. No more amazing fried potatoes (they were the Best in town) but the chicken (tenders) and waffle (sweet potato) did Not disappoint!! The two man team was great and so friendly. Definitely spend the extra $1 to get the sweet potato waffle and of course the peach butter is still phenomenal! We got there at 10:30 on a Saturday morning so not too busy and very little wait.

Aaron Brown is a great chef! I have been there twice and both times were amazing. While I was dining I overheard a lady on the phone praising how good his food was. He also had great hospitality. I ordered chicken and waffles, and the time before I had greens, yams, mac and cheese. I also had fries and cornbread. Just know I am never disappointed. One of the best spots in the city.

Whenever I get back to Indianapolis, Maxine's is on my list of spots to visit. Chicken and strawberry waffle with peach better...I never even use the syrup. Still just as delicious as when I lived in Indy. Staff was very pleasant and fun while we waited. It's in City Market now - which was very quiet when we visited on a weekday (probably due to the pandemic). Support Maxine's y'all...please keep them open!!

The chicken was absolutely delicious and the waffles paired very well with the spices from the chicken. The waffles on their own would be too sweet even without syrup. I think the packaging was a little wasteful. The location was under a lot of construction leaving little to no parking. Also I love that there is a lot of grub hub and other delivery services labeled!

First and foremost, the address on Google is incorrect for Maxine's. They are located inside at Southwest Corner of the Indianapolis City Market at 222 E. Market St. I may be biased, but I've heard a lot about this place for many years and kept putting off visiting them until now. When I approached the counter, I was in such anticipation that I didn't know what to order, so I asked the employee what I should get. He recommended the Sweet Potato Waffle with wings. I fully trusted his word and he was absolutely right. Initially the waffle was crisp and the sweetness without the syrup was there, yet subtle. I made a mistake by dumping syrup and butter over everything instead of a bite at a time. The chicken came fresh and very hot. The skin was very crispy and the meat was extremely juicy. The combination of the sweet potato with the succulent chicken was an excellent pairing. Maxine's totally lived up to my expectations and am looking forward to their next dish.