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Name: Maple Ave Restaurant
Address: 147 Maple Ave W, Vienna, VA, 22180
Telephone: (703) 319-2177
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 4.15

Maple Ave Restaurant

147 Maple Ave W, Vienna, VA, 22180

(703) 319-2177
Store is closed

Maple Ave Restaurant Menu

Small Plates

Suki Yaki Shrimp

Organic Beet Salad

Steamed Mussels

Apple Salad

Peppercorn Tofu

Shrimp And Grits

Fried Green Tomatoes

Creme Fraiche Chicken Wings

Chicken Shrimp Spring Roll

Pork Belly Ssam

Fried Cauli Flower
Main Plates

Panko Chicken Sandwich

Pulled Pork Bbq Sandwich

Baked Mac

Seared Scallops

Seared Chicken Meatballs

Spicy Seafood Noodles

Heirloom Tomato

Lemongrass Chicken

Bronzini
Sweet Plates

Peanut Butter Brownie

Carnival Funnel Cake

Chocolate Dumpling

Yuzu Lime Pie

Bittersweet Bread Pudding

Lemon Risotto Fritters

Beer Float

French Press Coffee

Healthy Meal suggestions for Maple Ave Restaurant

Small Plates

Suki Yaki Shrimp [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Organic Beet Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Steamed Mussels [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apple Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peppercorn Tofu [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp And Grits [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fried Green Tomatoes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Creme Fraiche Chicken Wings [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Shrimp Spring Roll [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pork Belly Ssam [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fried Cauli Flower [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Main Plates

Panko Chicken Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pulled Pork Bbq Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Baked Mac [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Seared Scallops [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Seared Chicken Meatballs [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Spicy Seafood Noodles [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Heirloom Tomato [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Lemongrass Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bronzini [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sweet Plates

Peanut Butter Brownie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Carnival Funnel Cake [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chocolate Dumpling [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Yuzu Lime Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bittersweet Bread Pudding [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Lemon Risotto Fritters [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beer Float [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

French Press Coffee [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Visit below restaurant in Vienna for healthy meals suggestion.

Chili’s ( 8051 Leesburg Pike )

Visit below restaurant in Vienna for healthy meals suggestion.

Chili’s ( 8051 Leesburg Pike )

Write An Anonymous Review

Linda C.

Met friends for Saturday brunch and had a great experience at Maple Ave Restaurant. This was our first time dining at the restaurant and gave it a try from the positive Yelp reviews. This is a darling of a restaurant. You hope to find this kind of place in your neighborhood where the place is quaint, the staff friendly, and the food prepared with exceptional care. We just got the sense that the owners and staff really love this place. I also love that they source as much of their ingredients from local farmers. The restaurant seats about 30 people so it's best to call ahead for a reservation. If you like Bloody Marys then you need to try them here. The Bloody Mary mix is prepared fresh on-site. You can see freshly grated horseradish, taste clam juice and spices, and it comes garnished with a thinly sliced cucumber. And the best part...at brunch the Bloody Mary is bottomless! Our group had the following items and they were all great: - Shrimp & Grits: Very good. It's not a spicy dish as found in the deep south. - Mac & Cheese: OMG is this good. - Kimchi & Eggs with Chinese Chorizo: I love the fusion of this dish - Fish & Chips: Batter on the fish was crispy and seasoned well. The fish was tender and the seasoned french fries were tasty. - Tuna Sandwich: The sandwish is comprised of a tuna steak on a brioche bun and comes with the tasty seasoned french fries. - Omelette: Well prepared and came with hash potatoes. All in all a great experience!
(5)
Chris S.

Stuck in Centreville and its Korean food, respectively. Find myself these days venturing in Vienna. And, I must say Maple is a newly found staple of V-town. Holy Moly, Pulled Pork BBQ? Yellow Curry chicken? Chocolate dumplings? Spanish Dumplings? I gaga over a lady named Maple. If you haven't noticed by now the place is very eclectic. The customer service was delightful. It serves everything from Spanish to Asian and with delicate fusion flavors. Every small plate and main entree is well prepared and meticulously decorated. As for the taste? Let's just say I will be back here more than 5 times before the year ends. The dishes and atmosphere (local artworks on every wall) of this place seems a bit out of place in Vienna and should be in DC. A bit pricey but is worth every bite. But the Maple Ave Restuarant is a gem in a fruitious town of various cuisine spots.
(4)
Lateef X.

Great! This brand new restaurant offers gourmet food that is cooked by an experienced chef that was trained at the French Culinary Institute in NYC. You'll find the same dishes here that you would at posh restaurants in downtown DC - the quality is fantastic and we're lucky to have this right in the middle of Vienna. The menu ranges from basics like the Maple Ave Burger to a Bulgogi Lettuce Wrap and various French dishes - that said, prices are very affordable. The environment was comfortable - large windows let you look right out onto Maple Avenue (the street) to people watch -- and hip music plays in the background while you eat - there are about seven tables, capable of seating four people to each table -- so it is quite intimate. They also have an extensive wine list, and offer several craft beers. Bottled soda available as well.
(5)
Jessica K.

this place is really cute. it's small so make sure you make a reservation. i ordered tuna tar tar, mac n cheese, one-two-three shrimp, and the special fried rice. the portions were good and very enjoyable. the service is good. good food, good service, good price, can you really ask for more???
(5)
Matthew W.

A cute little restaurant now stands where the El Salvadorian eatery once stood along 123. It's a nice location, smack in the middle of Old Vienna, easily accessible by foot if you're walking along the shops (which might be the preferred way of getting there as parking is sparse). From the outside it almost looks like a diner, but once you step inside it's apparent that it is what it says it is, a restaurant. Befitting its small size, the focus of Maple Ave. Restaurant is small plates (however, regular sized portions/entrees are also available). The interior is sparsely decorated, the only standout is a bizarre 80's dance mix being piped overhead. Being that my wife and I were there for brunch Sunday morning, the choice of tunes was a distraction to the otherwise pleasant atmosphere. The service was generally excellent throughout with the waitresses being attentive, yet not overbearing; giving status updates on our food when it became noticeable that it was taking too long to arrive from the kitchen. As a note to that point, it turned out the reason our food was taking so long was that the waitress forgot to put in our order. That error was rescued by a generous offer of a free appetizer: brussel sprout soup. While brussel sprout soup may sound more like a punishment than a treat, it was a nice gesture. A consistency and color like thick, creamy split pea soup unfortunately masked most of the flavor. While a nice brussel sprout bitterness made itself known in the finish, it became overly dull. I would order no more than a cup next time. I decided to start my brunch with a poinsetta: a cranberry and Champagne cocktail. Good flavor but it seemed that the Champagne bottle was left open a little too long as my drink was a little flat. Their coffee was quite good. Even though this place is known for their small plates, we ordered from their brunch menu, which was full sized. Their baguette French toast had great texture but barely perceptible flavor. The sausages that accompanied it were tasty, with a pleasant snap as you bit into them, but I can get tasty sausages at most breakfast places. So nothing special here. Huyen's sweet potato hash possessed an incredible flavor: multilayered elements of maple syrup, oregano, the sweetness of the potato; all distinct yet balanced. Huyen thought it was a bit on the greasy side; I, however, felt it was a minor issue. Rounding out the whole experience were decent cups of coffee throughout. We'll probably go back for dinner to see what Maple Ave.'s signature feature, small dishes, have to add to this mediocre impression.
(2)
Vanilla Nugget X.

Nice neighborhood place. Thai Okra was a nice appetizer. Dried/crispy okra pieces with a little spice (but not anything near normal thai heat). Its nice to see okra in some form other than deep batter fried. Short rib was very good, but I wouldn't say it was amazing. It came on grits, which were tastier than any grits I had ever eaten. Bread pudding was a great dessert. Staff was nice, location is good. Overall, a great little place.
(4)
Meredith P.

This building is not the place for a guaranteed success. I can't even count the number of restaurants that closed here before Maple Ave came along. I don't know if it's the size, the location, the obnoxiously small parking lot, or what...but this building has seen a lot of places come and go. I'm hoping Maple Ave sticks around, because I just got back from my first visit and it was really good. The bread with pumpkin butter was...oh lord. Can I have their ENTIRE stock of pumpkin butter please? God that was fabulous. I was not thrilled by the vegetarian potstickers, but that's not their fault...I just hate mushrooms. What really wowed me was the baked mac and cheese. I'm a vegetarian so it was the most appealing thing on the menu (the only vegetarian main plate, actually) and it turned out to be REALLY excellent. It was just excellent, I could have easily eaten another order! ($9 was a bit much for the small serving though.) It was so delicious. My wife got the gnocchi from the small plate menu, and she enjoyed them, but said that frying them really made them tough, not like regular gnocchi. The desserts...well let me say off the bat that I was torn between four of them. Funnel cake, can you believe it? Funnel cake! And ice cream mochi! I haven't had that since Bubbies in Honolulu! But those were the ones I passed up...I got the chocolate dumpling and my wife got the flourless chocolate cake ("oh em gee delish"). They were both phenomenal...I almost think there was too much of the cake, because it was so rich I couldn't eat any more! I'd say one order of cake is enough for two people. The liquid chocolate in the dumplings though, YUM. (Don't put it over your ice cream, it turns into gel, which is fun if you haven't had Magic Shell for a while but it isn't the best way to enjoy them.) The prices were fairly high for the amount of food served, but the food was very good. The parking lot is ridiculous though - I'll be parking in the Magruder's shopping center from now on. (I'm going to say it's "good for kids" because we saw two families there with kids, but I would suggest that it's good for refined kids, not wild ones with picky palates - take them to Foster's Grill across the street instead. NOT good for groups because it's too small.)
(4)
Eric K.

At first I was not so sure about this place because it looked a little too hipster-fancy kind of a something with small portions and a too small eating space but I have to say- it won me over. The food is really good. I came for brunch and both my wife and my meals were fantastic. There is a lot of organic this and local that, which to be honest I think is sometimes just a gimic, but in this case it translated to quality food. I liked it
(4)
Michael B.

Tiny tiny place, so tough to get a table at times (call for a reservation!), but worth it. go for lots of small plates to try the variety. The gazpacho was amazing (w watermelon and thai seasonings), as was the fried cauliflower (we ordered a second one!).
(5)
Ethan L.

I went there with my wife for lunch on saturday. I heard good things about the chicken sandwich and the chef delivered on my expectations brilliantly. My wife's Moroccan chicken was equally as tasty. The wait-staff was polite and attentive. The dining room was small but cozy. They did a lot with such a small space. I hate to mention food and bathrooms in the same review but theirs deserves a comment - exceptionally clean and nicely decorated! We'll be back.
(4)
Rachel P.

i had a lovely brunch with my parents here a couple weekends ago. i had no idea how TINY the place really is! service was excellent, food was excellent. we shared the beet salad with walnuts and goat? cheese. it was delicious. that MAY have been the first time i've had beets? well, it made me think beets were the shit, so i'd totally eat that dish on my own next time. i had a good ole bacon egg and cheese sandwich, and it was very good. loved their bread. it wasn't oily or heavy at all. my mom got the mushroom risotto and she loved it. nicely flavored. my dad got the panko chicken sandwich and he liked his meal too. their fries that came with that plate were yum. i will say the small mixed salad that came with mine was very 'eh'. i didn't really eat it, it was just so plain. then we all split the funnel cake and the yuzu lime pie. all yum, and not too sweet at all, which is how we all like our desserts. i'm not normally a pie kinda girl, and i ate much more of the lime pie than the funnel cake. my only qualm about the place is just the parking lot. it's the smallest lot ever, with only one entrance/exit, which sucks if the place is completely full. i thought i was going to have to back out onto busy, oncoming traffic, but luckily someone was leaving just before i had to back out all the way. also, you pretty much have to make a reservation since the place is so busy and small.
(5)
Simon O.

I went here with some friends a couple of weeks ago. It's a small restaurant and there's very little parking space available, but the place manages to create a cozy atmosphere. I had the apple salad and the Dr. Pepper short ribs, both of which were outstanding. As far as dessert goes, the red velvet cup was very good, while the hot chocolate was (unfortunately) rather cloying. Also, in case you're wondering, the bathroom is very clean.
(5)
Emily L.

We've been to Maple Ave twice, and I'm torn. The first time, the food was AMAZING. I had the rice bowl, and the pork belly was so tender it melted in my mouth, the drinks were great, my fiance had the ribs and they were great. The second time, I recommended the rice bowl to my guests and had the ribs. They were very, very dry, and the rice bowl was extremely disappointing. My guest said he didn't want to go back there again. The dessert was good though. So overall, I'm torn. I'll give it one more try, and hopefully next time they up their game again.
(3)
Chunnu B.

Now this seems like one of those "really good, really different" type of restaurants. It is different, has a clean and modern look and feel to it. Although it is a small place, I did not feel cramped at all. The inside had a certain feel to it as if I were sitting in someone's kitchen. Service was good, friendly. However, from reading the menu I was expecting some very delicious food. Although decent, the food did not wow me. I was excited to try their Baked Mac & Cheese. I was not the least bit impressed, it lacked something, and I would chose a box of Kraft's 3 Cheese Mac & Cheese over it. Their burger and their fish were both alright, better than "okay" but not something I would brag about. I was also excited about their desserts. My friend and I tried the "oh emm gee delicious." Well, needless to say I was not saying "OMG Delicious!" when we tried it. Nothing here was terrible, not even close, but was just a little too basic for my taste.
(3)
Jay P.

A wanna-be fancy joint that just doesn't deliver. The menu looks promising, with a tapas/small plate menu, and an entree menu ranging from baked macaroni and cheese to Dr Pepper Ribs. I was also excited to see that they carry Clipper City beer, which I am a fan of, and I appreciate the support of a somewhat local business. The place itself is a little too small and cramped, and the art on the wall for sale came off as kinda cheesy. The waitress was nice and welcoming, but little too much on the bubbly side. It would have been okay except that she couldn't pronounce any of the items on the menu to save her life, and didn't seem to have any knowledge about the items on the menu: "the dry aged steak is like our regular steak on the menu, but better". I would have ordered the dry aged steak, but I was feeling a little too skeptical about this place already, so I went with something safe - a hamburger. I ordered a burger with truffle oil mayo, with Roquefort cheese cooked medium. When my order came, the patty resembled something looking like a charred baby's fist. It was even more dwarfed by the giant bun that it sat on. When I took my first bite, it was clearly well done. The bun also started falling apart after about 2 bites (now about 1/2 way through it). Everything was a mess by the time I was done, bread pieces, meat, cheese crumbles, etc. I only finished it, because it was the only meal I had eaten that day, and I was starving. Shoestring fries on the side were okay, but they were cold, and not very filling as a side. The BBQ salmon my friend got didn't look appetizing, and he wasn't thrilled with it either. My other friend went the tapas route. The foie gras looked like pate from a can, and his spanish dumplings were way too salty. It honestly felt like a wanna-be fancy restaurant, without any of the perks of a truly great place. The place as a whole really needs to pay attention to some details. The wait staff needs to become more familiarized with the menu, and the menu needs to be tweaked a little bit to be more realistic to something that they can deliver well. Personally, I enjoyed the Salvadorian place that was here beforehand a lot better.
(1)
Dave J.

Our second visit, and this time we tried the brunch. Once again, wonderful food. The ambience is a bit understated, but where else can you eat so well in such a casual atmosphere? We also want to note how great the service is--Ricardo has been our waiter for both visits and he anticipates your needs and likes, and is also very friendly. This time he passed along my wife's special menu request to owner/chef Tim Ma, who graciously accepted. We order many small and regular plates and then share. We love everything--this is a great place to have your children learn to experiment with food and watch them enjoy new and perhaps somewhat unusual plates. I don't think my sons would try okra on their own, but it is now something they insisted on reordering. The leftovers are tasty as well. Can't wait for the next visit, and the opening of their new adventure, "Water and Wall." Bravo, Tim and Joey!
(5)
Sarah M.

Superb! It's a quaint little place that would easily be glanced over but DO NOT MAKE THIS MISTAKE! Maple Ave Restaurant (MAR) serves fantastic food and is very accommodating. They even made it possible for me to celebrate my birthday there with 6 people after some broken communication. After two visits here this summer I've already fallen in love, especially after eating the duck special and amazing butter-poached scallops. If you looking for something a little lighter the watermelon soup is even inspired! I find it difficult to find this quality of produce, cooking, and presentation without heading into DC but this place is the perfect quiet night out without going too far.
(5)
Andrew K.

Skip this place! I ordered their special; Softshell Crab Sandwich. What a mistake. They should call it the soggy crab sandwich. It wasn't crunchy or flavorful. It wasn't cooked right at all. They fried it in a low temp oil and it came out really weird. My fiance who was dining with me said she felt sick watching me eat it. We ended up sharing her omelet which was waaaaay too salty and the homefries that came with it which wasn't cooked through. Coffee was a little burnt tasting too. Not what I wanted for my brunch. Overall, bad tasting restaurant that tries to compensate it with overly cheerful staff. They should revisit their menu and offerings or they'll go out of business in next six months. Not going back again.
(1)
Barry S.

Very good but not out of this world ... and all of my foodie friends who live in Vienna say there are a few better options. A bit pricey for what we got (especially when you factor in the pedestrian atmosphere). Still a good joint to try.
(4)
Stephen C.

Small place but food is good. I had the scallop while my wife had chicken. Both were delicious. The fannel cake was also good but for $8, it had better be.
(4)
Debbie C.

Maple Avenue is a cozy neighborhood restaurant. The service was attentive and timely. The beet salad was a favorite, and my friend enjoyed the soup special. My meat lettuce wrap dish was very tasty, but a little too much fat on the meat. I had no problem with the prices, but I didn't think the $3.00 up-charge for more rice and lettuce was appropriate on a $16 entree. We ordered the funnel cake *based on another reviewers comments* and it was delicious and enough for four people. The coffee was delicious also. I agree with the parking issue comments. It was difficult getting out of the lot, and the spaces are limited. Also, you can't worry about other people listening in on your conversations. If you have a secret to tell, don't eat there! I'm conservative with my star ratings, so I would actually put this at 2.5 stars.
(3)
Neil S.

My friend said it best, " Everything about that place was great - except the food!" The menu was small, so there were limited options if you are pregnant or vegetarian, which I am fine with. However, I would have thought that they would have nailed every dish coming out the kitchen? Servers - I honestly have to say they tried everything to make us happy. No reservation or room in the front, you can sit in the back. You don't love your dish, we'll get you another, want some other sauce/dressing, no problem. Price - I would have expected more "gourmet" and less "neighborhood casual restaurant". Portion size was a bit small as its tapas-style, but the price adds up quick. Drinks - pretty decent drink menu actually. I really like the unique beers that they brought in. (could be served a bit cooler though) Food - So we had a vegetarian, a pregnant woman, and a chicken lover in our group. I got somewhat of a boring salad, a nice and creamy mac and cheese w/ gruyere, and a rice bowl. Really... a rice bowl with a couple of currants and pieces of asparagus? I asked for additional sauces which helped, but was definitely a weak dish. Mrs. Preggers ordered a salad with chicken, that needed some dressing help. She mentioned even some EVOO and balsamic vinegar would be good enough. The chicken guy didn't like his chicken, but I forgot why. Personally, unless they step up the flavors of their dishes and improve their menu to be a bit more veggie friendly, I likely won't be returning since there are so many other options in the area.
(3)
Kruella D.

I enjoyed this place! It's very small and looks like a dive restaurant from the outside, but it has character. My mom read in the Post that it only has 2 servers, but it doesn't need any more. It only holds 26 people and that would be tight. Apparently the man who owns it is also the Chef and he changes the menu according to what food is fresh and available. We were in a group of 4. Anyway, I had the baked mac and cheese which was fantastic -- made with gruyere cheese. I also had the duck frise salad, which was amazing. I also had the whole fish which was served to me right out of the kitchen, hot and fresh. I asked that they remove the head and tail and they obliged. The fish still had the spine, but that's ok, it's just a little harder to eat, but worth it. The thai Okra is excellent and so is the apple salad and tomato soup. The beet salad was bit underwhelming. I also had the shrimp and grits which I thought was pretty good, but some of the other food was better. For dessert, the chocolate dumplings are to die for!!
(5)
James G.

Simple looking shop.. very small and quiet. However, the quality of the food and friendliness of the staff were extraordinary. It's a little pricey and you might have to make reservations because of the size of the restaurant. I got the chicken and waffles and I didn't know it could be made so good. I was skeptical at first because of the price but as soon as i tasted the chicken I was sold! The texture to the flavor was all perfect. Plus it's not far from my favorite dessert shop right behind mattress discounters. I stop by at Sweet City Desserts which made my high class feeling meal end with a high class dessert. Overall amazing shop and perfect night!
(5)
Martin T.

Went here for brunch. Just order the pork belly fried rice. You will not be disappointed. I will go back again. Also, the server/waitress was really nice. Perfect balance of not too pushy/moves us along.
(5)
Nancy H.

We went, with reservations, on a Thursday night. The parking lot was about half full---sign of a healthy restaurant without the annoyance of having to park elsewhere. The restaurant is the size of my living room--very tiny. That said, the tables were strategically placed where intimate conversations still felt intimate. The decor was classy and simple. The lighting was definitely darker than I like---but then again I've never been a huge fan of mood lighting in general. Our waitress greeted us graciously and the service was spectacular throughout our meal. Since this was our first time, we didn't know what to expect for the large vs small plates. We ended up ordering the mac and cheese, shrimp and grits, and the pork Main plate. I was unpleasantly surprised to find that the menu on their website was in fact not up to date---was hoping to try the rice bowl but it was not available. We were surprised with a cheese biscuit "bread" cut into 6 slices and a little thimble of cinnamon spread. The cinnamon spread was savory--not sweet. I liked it, the boyfriend did not. The biscuit, we both agreed, was delicious. The mac and cheese was a bit of a surprise. It looked wonderfully; creamy and rich but the Gruyere cheese cut through our palates in almost an unpleasant way. The pasta was bow tie--unusual for mac and cheese--but palatable. Overall, I'd give the mac and cheese a 6 out of 10. I like my mac and cheese creamy and ridiculously rich. The shrimp and grits was the highlight of my evening and my main entree. The grits were creamy and wonderful. The shrimp was perfectly cooked. The venison sausage made me ecstatic. The portion size was definitely enough for an entree and at $7--not a bad deal at all. Unfortunately, the same type of gastronomic pleasure could not be found with the boyfriend's pork dish. Though it was indeed on a larger plate, there was probably an equal amount of food as my grits. The sauce the dish laid on had an interesting kick---though not sure if it was one I really would have enjoyed. The pork was well-cooked and the cabbage salad on top was...crunchy? Overall, I wasn't a huge fan of the flavors. The boyfriend agreed and unfortunately for him---this was his main dish. For our 3 dishes, our check was right above $30. Not too shabby, considering we were both full at the end. Not sure what the fuss about the pricing was about for the other reviews. Overall, I'd rank our experience as a 7 out of 10. Maple Ave is definitely an experience one should have. I'm not sure, however, if we'd go back again for a while.
(4)
Jessica C.

Seafood noodles are excellent, the broth is perfectly spicy and the portions of shrimp & scallop were proportionate. The fried green tomatoes were great and a huge amount for a "small" plate. The coffee option was not brunch-friendly as it is a small French press for $5. Though very tasty, I need my coffee in bulk in the early hours of the day and we had to head to panera after so we could wake up. The omlette was prepared well but the sweet blueberry venison sausage was a little off-putting mixed with eggs and cheese. I would love it in a stuffing or next to the French toast.
(3)
Barbara R.

Wonderful local restaurant with great owners. Amazing dinner.
(5)
S B.

Wonderful restaurant! I have been to Maple Ave several times and have never been disappointed.
(5)
Rachelle E.

This restaurant is very small, perhaps the building was once a carry-out, and your best bet for dinner there is to make reservations (though I still had to wait for a table once I arrived at my reserved time, which is awkward because the place is so small). The restaurant seems to get heavy patronage and it can fill up quickly for dinner, though I have never seen a full house at lunch. Unfortunately the tiny size of the space leaves diners feeling cramped, not cozy, with no table being "the good table". I hope that this business can move to a larger location eventually because I have not returned because I don't like hearing the toilet flush during my meal nor do I enjoy getting beat down by ice cold wind whenever someone opens the door. The food was pretty good, though the appetizer portions are shockingly spare, so you might want to skip those and just go for a large entree if you want to get your money's worth. I ordered the special of the night which was a grilled pork chop with sweet potato gnocchi and was generally pleased. The pork chop was huge and cooked well, though the gnocchi were very small and fried, which made them all texture and no taste. Considering that the dish was $20+, I don't think I really got my money's worth. My partner had the ribs, which tasted amazing and were a great value, which I'd recommend. I remember his side veggies being way, way overcooked, which was only redeemed by the yumminess of the ribs. They are called "Dr. Pepper" ribs (or something to that affect), though we only tasted yumminess. Overall, it was a nice restaurant to visit for the first time on a special occasion, but I wouldn't go back. The food is overpriced and the restaurant is cramped, it just doesn't seem to be worth it.
(2)
VT P.

We came to have lunch on Saturday at 11:30am. The place was empty and looked a bit dated (the carpet did not look too good). We were a bit apprehensive. Then the food came out - and it was delish!!! The mussels came out first - redolent with coconut sauce and saffron. The sausage in the mussels were tender and so tasty. My son mopped up the delectable sauce with the crostini. We then ordered the fries which were very crispy. We also had the fried green tomatoes with spice remoulade. Then we shared the shrimps and grits - creamy and so yummy. We also shared the sweet potato hash with scrambled eggs. The meal came to a delightful end with the fun funnel cakes with ice cream! All in all, a great food experience!
(4)
Joseph K.

Every dish we tasted was excellent! There were about 8 of us in the party (which took up nearly half the restaurant), and almost all of us tried something different. There wasn't a weak dish. You can tell they used quality ingredients all around, and I have no idea how they make their chicken so moist. The only downsides to this restaurant are location-related and price. It's awkwardly located with very little parking, and the inside doesn't seat a lot of people either. Some of us had to park in other lots and hope for the best (try not to park illegally). Also, the smaller dishes are basically appetizers. In order to get your fill, you may need to order a small dish and a full-sized dish, which can add up. But for the quality, you can't expect budget prices. We ended up paying a pretty penny, but that was partially due to drinks and desserts that were added on. It was a birthday dinner, so we had to pay up. Don't go for the ambiance or decor because it's a really humble looking place. Go for the food, and hopefully not when you're too hungry...and you'll have a wonderful experience.
(5)
Mark M.

I think this place is ok with a lot of hit and misses. the problem is when you are paying top dollar for your food, there should be few to no misses. our party of four was seated in the "back room", actually a dirty patio enclosed in canvas with no bathroom. Generally, I like hole in the wall type places, put the back rood is less hole in the wall and more dump. Why they dont drape the tables in the back room with table cloths and candles as they do out front, i'll never know - same menu, same price, same food. I felt like I was eating in a garage. Upon closer inspection the patio was clean but incredibly dingy. a good portion of the tile was missing from the floor. Maybe this was a design attempt to come up with industrial shabby chic look - work with the space you have kind of thing. I dunno, but it sure wasnt working for me. We almost walked out upon first glance. Plus, having to exit the building and walk along outside to the front of the building where the bathroom was located was quaint but a pain when it is raining out. Maybe some umbrellas at the door would help. The front room is much nicer. Moral of the story herre is to make reservations if you dont want to sit in the dungeon. The seared scallops were very good as was the brazini - (Mediterranian sea bass) though the waitress expressed extreme reluctance and hesitation to ask the chef to remove the fish head before serving. she warned the Chef would only remove the head if it was not busy in the kitchen. The dish came out with no head, which was great, but we should not have been made to sweat out whether our modest request would be honored or not. The rice with that came with the branzini was way too salty - I mean really salty, to the four of us at our table, the mac and cheese was dissapointing. The pasta was overcooked and swimming in a sea of liquid cheese. It was more like a cheese soup with pasta. If this is what you like then go for it but for me sometimes less is more and less cheese and a mre dense texture to the dish would have been better. The chocolate dumpling deserts were interesting and tasty, but served with an unusually bland vanilla ice cream that we were told was not home made - which is ok if it had a premium flavor like Hagen Daz or Ben and Jerry's - but it didnt. The 2 giant chicken meat balls were rubbery and one was burned. These would probably be much better tasting if served as little bite size meatballs rather than tennis ball sized giants. They looked rather lonely without any sauce of any kind to pour over. They were supposed to be drenched with fish sauce but I couldnt see or taste it. The wines were just okay but the pour really stingy - at 11 dollars a glass the amount should be more than the bottom quarter of the glass. The service was unremarkable but good - in most moderate priced restaurants the service would be just fine - but with the money you pay out one would expect the usual "how are you guys tonight" greeting. Something a tad more classy and respectful would have been nice. I normally don't complain about price - excellent cuisine demands top dollar. I get it. But, while the Maple Ave Restaurant will cost you top dollar - it is on the top end of the price scale, the quality and service is not there. Im not sure if I would go back. I might but after paying $196 none of us walked out of there saying "that was great!".
(2)
Kevin O.

Great LITTLE restaurant. If it wasn't for yelp we'd have kept driving past it. The place is very small, with a tight little parking lot to match. The brunch was great. Service was good, food was good... I can't think of much else to say. Try it!
(4)
Ives Y.

We randomly ended up here at maple ave due to my stupid tire with a nail in it. It's a small true mom and pop shop and they definitely have Great food. Who'd have thunk that they'd have eggs and kimchi on their brunch menu? It totally hit the spot. The entree is more like a deconstructed kimchi fried rice. It's great separately, but the Korean in me couldn't resist and I just had to mix it together. It's really not that big, so we were lucky to be seated right away.
(5)
Maria S.

You can't help but want this place to survive. The food is great and wonderfully priced for this area. Don't go in expecting something overtly gourmet. That being said, they do a lot with very simple ingredients and they do it well. You should keep in mind that seating is extremely limited at Maple Ave and they do not have a great waiting area due to the restaurant's size. Do yourself a favor and call in a reservation.
(4)
madisaline k.

I have dined here twice. Once with kids and once with no kids. This place is tiny! I was worried about overhearing other people's conversations and being distracted but it was not a problem. I quite appreciated the size. It's a nice change from gigantic, noisy places like PF Changs. With the kids (party of 5) it was a bit of squeeze but they accomodated us. This is not normally the type of restaurant I would take children too though. We did find suitable food for them. The sweet potato gnocchi with ham was very good but the flavor of the ham overpowered the gnocchi. The Dr. Pepper ribs incredibly tender (no knife needed), although there is no Dr. Pepper flavor which I was looking forward to. I chose a Korean rice bowl dish with kimchee, pickled radish, egg and pork belly. It was a simple yet incredibly tasty dish. The flavors of the various items all came together very nicely. The OEMGEE flourless chocolate cake really is devine but if you're prefer a less sweet dessert I recommend the chocolate wontons. Egg wontons filled with dark chocolate and deep fried.
(5)
Kelly J.

Long time fan, first time reviewer. MAR is the perfect restaurant for family get-togethers (like one I attended last night), weekend brunch with friends, or happy hour drinks and appetizers. The service is top-notch - Ricardo is the best server in the business. MAR has a unique wine list, a variety of beers that you won't find in other restaurants, and the food...every single thing I've eaten there is delicious. It is inventive, yet comforting. Last night I had the apple salad (I usually order it every time - mixed greens with candied walnuts, gorgonzola cheese, apples, candied walnuts, and apple cider vinagrette) and pork belly lettuce wraps (bibb lettuce, pork belly, carrots, scallions, and kimchi). You can't go wrong with dessert - my table shared a yuzu lime pie and it was the perfect amount of sweet and citrus. If you haven't been to MAR, you are missing out.
(5)
Sarah P.

Overall, I think Maple Ave deserves four stars...that being said, I'm solely rating my experience for brunch Sunday which left something to be desired. I brought my family here for my Dad's birthday - expecting both of my parents to love it. In addition to being gluten free my mom is allergic to egg yolks. She asked for the veggie omelet - made with egg whites only and was told that the batter is already mixed. Fair enough, but being that this place prides itself on being a foodie restaurant, you would think she would have suggested something else that would accommodate. After all, my sister ordered a fried egg sandwich...it would make sense that they could throw a few egg whites and vegetables together. Discouraged by the lack of choices for her dietary needs, my mom ended up ordered the same meal without the eggs (hash, bacon and a side salad only) - the waitress said she would have to check is that was possible. Really? She is only eliminating the eggs from the entree - of course this is possible. Anyway, the truffled eggs are just ok. Truffles added to anything make it better - but the $14 price was not worth it. The highlight was most certainly the hash/breakfast potatoes. We also ordered the thai okra which was delicious. I won't be back for brunch - but Maple Ave is definitely a place I would return to for their dinner menu. The place is very small so make reservations.
(3)
Lane B.

All three meals here have been disappointments. They want to be fancy and trendy, but they are just over their heads. If they would scale it back a notch and go for less complex but perfectly prepared fare, they (and their customers) would be better off. Vienna needs more places that want to serve tasty and adventurous food but the Maple Ave Restaurant has to learn to run before they fly.
(2)
mark w.

Not much to look at, but the food is good at this Vienna restaurant. It looks like a converted take-out place from the outside but the interior is nice, but small. The carpet needs replacing badly, but the tables, art, and accessories are nice. The local ingredients and scratch preparation made my chicken sandwich and my wife's french toast excellent. Bread pudding for desert was out of sight great. Service friendly and attentive. Not a place for "experience", but a great place for food.
(4)
Samantha D.

Everything here is delicious, fresh, and served by pleasant servers. The owners are lovely and I never regret coming here for brunch, lunch, dinner, or a special occasion such as their cooking lessons. Even the drink specials are delicious. Highly recommend.
(5)
Raiza B.

I love Maple ave! Been tryna go every other weekend since I live in Vienna its very convenient for Dinner. The food is GREAT! My favorite is the Kobe burger, the dumplings, mochi delight, Best of both worlds, well everything there is just great! I highly recommend going. I took my sister and her bf and they absolutely loved it! Great service and great food! can't get better than that! My boyfriend loves this place too.. he gets the ribs or the chicken sandwhich! both taste great!
(5)
Ben J.

Try the most off-the-wall thing on the menu. It will amaze you. Then try the most "mundane" thing on the menu. It has been reimagined and improved more than you thought possible. For the former, I recommend the rice bowl I had last time I was there. It was a concert of contrasting flavors, including an accent I've never liked before: kimchi. For the latter, their play on macaroni & cheese is upscale and decadent. This ain't Kraft! I would eat here daily if it were closer to my place and I could afford it.
(5)
T L.

So after being here, the first thing you need to know is that the parking lot is tiny! Most cars have to rear back out into the street to get out of the parking lot. So if you're arriving with a rather large group, carpool! Note that the restaurant itself is also very small. More importantly, the food was good. We had the panko chicken sandwich and BBQ pulled pork sandwich each with fries. Although both sandwiches were tasty, I have to point the spotlight on the chicken sandwich. The chicken tasted like real legit chicken. I have rarely tasted chicken so tender that was not stewed. oh nom nom nom Service was great. We kept getting updates on our food like it was someone's overly active twitter account.
(3)
Arthur M.

Maple Ave Restaurant is definitely a hidden gem in Northern VA. The place is really small but the quality of the ingredients and the preparation is top notch. So far, we have been here only for brunch but it has to be one of the best brunches available in the area. Buttermilk pancakes taste like they are really made with actual buttermilk. Incredible shrimp and grits. Fried Green tomatoes that remind you of how grandma use to make them. Perfectly cooked bacon and home fries. Chef also tries to use local ingredients as much as possible. We are definitely going back here next time we are going to splurge on a nice brunch.
(5)
Erin P.

We continue to enjoy MAR. We especially love going to the chef dinners they have occasionally. Its a great opportunity to learn about cooking, and organic local produce.
(5)
Byron S.

We've been visiting this restaurant for the past 12 years (before the significant remodeling and name change). Now as before Marcel and his son have always been incredibly gracious hosts and Danny has been there as well preparing and serving awesome drinks always with a friendly smile. It's a great neighborhood bar and restaurant that has always proved delightful for dinner, drinks and music.
(5)
A L.

This is such a charming small place. John was our server( the only one) and he was great. You can either share a bunch of small plates or go for their entrees. It wasnt too pricey which was an added bonus. Beet salad - great burger- super
(5)
S L.

I'm so glad I read the reviews of this restaurant to help make a last minute supper decision. VERY small dining area, from the street not a place I'd choose. But, do not judge this book by it's cover. Fried Cauliflower small plate - so tasty & not the usual fried; vegetarian risotto - outstanding; panko chicken sandwich very tasty; reservations accepted; one table available when we arrived @8:30p week night.
(4)
Jeff W.

A little overrated on Yelp, but there is definitely potential here. I think there are some great ideas behind the food but the actual restaurant part of it is a bit off. For starters, portions and pricings are grossly inconsistent. I came with some coworkers for lunch and got the $14 lunch and dessert deal which sounds like a great value given the base menu prices, but really depends on what you order as to whether or not it's of any value. For example, I ordered the bulgogi wrap and (I think tiramisu flavored??) mochi. The bulgogi wrap was a great idea, coming with a sauce of kimchi puree. And it tasted great, there was just hardly anything to it. As in, after my meal I had to go somewhere else to get another lunch. Not a great deal to spend $20 on lunch and have to get a supplemental lunch elsewhere. But to contrast with that, a coworker got a rather large half rack of Dr Pepper ribs and some sort of far more sizeable dessert. Maybe donuts? I can't remember. I just remember being stunned at how different the portions were. If the Bulgogi Wrap actually had highend ingredients, I might be more understanding. But that cost for a couple tiny slivers of beef and some pureed kimchi is unjustifiable. The attempt at small plates could really benefit from lower prices, or for the main plates to be increased in portion, or at the very least be more consistent with the size of the other main dishes. If memory serves me, small plates are about $6-7 and main plates are in the $12+ price range, which is a bit cost prohibitive at a dining experience centered around ordering multiple dishes. What I had was definitely worth maybe $8-$10 but certainly not $13. I've heard from others that have returned that there are inconsistencies in food here from visit to visit so I'd like to return again and give it another try. I like what they're trying to do, I just feel like they could benefit from a revisiting of their process and maybe get some sort of restaurant consultant in to advise. It's trying to be higher class than it really is and I think it's in need of finding it's identity. If/when that happens, I think it could be a pretty successful little place.
(3)
Mike T.

Great food and great staff. The menu - which constantly changes - had some fantastic salads and deserts were awesome. Go to this place! You'll like it.
(5)
John F.

Came in expecting average American cuisine. Found an exciting and creative almost fusion menu. Had the Eggs and Kimchi (was shocked to see it) and it was AWESOME!!! Great wait staff. Really liked it and will definitely be coming back to try their other interesting dishes.
(4)
Shannon M.

A friend and I popped in for lunch this week. I have been wanting to stop in for months. The atmosphere is cozy, albeit a bit plain. However, the service was wonderful and the food fantastic. We shared a few small plates. The fried cauliflower was wonderful!! We also had the shrimp and grits and a lovely apples and green salad. I appreciate their devotion to serving local foods and their menu shifts according to what is in season. Highly recommend for a casual lunch, dinner with friends.
(5)
Randy M.

A couple of things you should know ahead of time before dining at Maple Ave. First, you will need reservations, and if you want to eat at 7:00 on a Saturday you are going to want to call by Thursday. This is purely due to the size of a dining area. Which brings me to my next point, be prepared for a boisterous meal. You're pretty packed in and at times it was getting pretty loud. And lastly, the parking situation is the pits. They have a tiny alley with front in parking and no exit out the back. If all the spots are full you have to perform a 32 point turn around or reverse back onto 123. We parked behind the block on Church. The menu is broken down into small plates and large plates. The small plates are appropriately appetizer sized. The 4 of us each had a small and a large plate. We shared the pot stickers, Spanish dumplings, okra, and duck spring roll. Pot stickers we ok, okra was good but not much to it, the real winners here were the Spanish dumplings. For my main I went with the chicken and waffles. I could smell the waffles from outside the restaurant and couldnt resist when I saw them on the menu. The chicken was perfectly fried, I didn't bother trying to be fancy about it, just picked it up with my hands. One of us got the Ponzu fish, said it was excellent, but be ready for a few bones. They appear to have a 2nd dining area in the back. You must have to enter from the back as we never saw anyone walk thru the restaurant. A very nice experience, will certainly be returning.
(4)
Dean S.

Absolutely delicious! The space is a little odd - we were seated in the back, which is sort of a patio, but covered and overlooking... a parking lot. I think my paren scallops were perfectly cooked and delicious, and the coconut risotto that accompanied them (along with basil ice cream) really exceeded my expectations. The spices on the Moroccan chicken were outstanding, and I have never had chicken so perfectly cooked - crispy skin, moist and tender meat. For dessert, the baguette bread pudding was probably the best bread pudding I have ever had, and the chocolate dumplings were yummy, too. Service was extremely friendly and helpful. I will definitely go back the next time I'm in Vienna - I am dying to taste everything on the menu!
(5)
Brad C.

I was searching for a restaurant that was not a typical chain restaurant. I found Maple Ave and after reading so many great reviews decided to give it a try last night. It was unreal. We have 7 dishes and every one of them was great. The pork bowl was amazing. The funnel cake and chocolate desert amazing. I will be going back!
(5)
Richard C.

I love great little places like this. The service was an easy five stars. Great drink selection. Not endless but great choices and a good number for a smaller restaurant. Great home town feel. Food was all very good. The only disappointment was the sweet potato gnochi special. The gnochi was dry and had no sauce so no real flavor, but the onion and ham mix it was served on made it worth having. Loved the duck rolls flavor though I would like to try them crispier. Mac and Cheese was a must. Pot stickers were great if not surprising. And the Mochi desert was really fun. Overall I think this is my new favorite place in Vienna and will only get better.
(4)
James N.

my party went here for a friend's celebration. ive passed by this place many times but never knew such a great restaurant was located here. from the outside the small building reminds me of a diner or something. but dont let the looks fool you. once you get inside it is elegant and comforting. would be a good date spot. i called in and made reservations the night before because even though i ate here on a wednesday, the reviews on yelp let me know that this place has a limited number of seats. the person i talked to on the phone had to ask the chef if a party of 10 would be doable. when she picked up she said it would be fine and informed me that there might not be enough parking and told me alternatives in case their lot was full the next day (day of the dining) i got a call again just to confirm my reservation and the worker once again told me of the parking situation - which i found quite considerate and professional when we arrived at the restaurant we were greeted immediately and were shown our table. the staff there is very friendly and conversed with us throughout the night. also, aside from the indoor seating, they also have an outdoor section which looked great for intimate situations. i think everyones meal was great. from appetizers, to entrees, to desert, to the drinks. there might not be a WIDE selection of items on the menu.. but every dish is very unique and tasty. quite a few items were asian influenced as well. they even had a saketini drink. i asked them if they could make it stronger and our server said of course and they made it strong; just how i like it lol. my gf ordered a mixed drink and she told our waiter that there was hardly any alcohol in it. the server immediately brought out some extra liquor so she could put in it. our server Jess, was great. accommodated every need our party had and was very polite the manager, who was pregnant at the time of our visit was just the same. they came by to check if everything was okay and made us feel very welcomed. this is definitely a hidden gem in vienna. try it out.
(4)
C R.

Hands down, the best food anywhere in northern VA. I have been there at all times of the day, on every day they are open (closed Monday). I want to lick the plate. Be sure to order Shrimp and Grits, Hangar steak, anything with duck, FUNNEL CAKES, Lemon Pound Cake. You will not be disappointed.
(5)
TA F.

My wife and I dined at the Maple Ave Restaurant last night and found the food to be fine but the place lacks any ambiance and warmth. We were placed next to a large drafty window with a wonderful view of the commode. Simple put the place lacks any evidence that the owner knows how to make it's clients comfortable and welcome. Since there is nothing spectacular about its menu our recommendation is go elsewhere until the owner's learn that it takes more than food to make a pleasant dinning experience....by the way all the windows leaked like a sieve making the place an windy ice box on cold nights. My guess is that they are novice restauranteers and I hope they do read this and understand making your guest uncomfortable ruins even the best of culinary skills.
(2)
Odile D.

THIS PLACE IS AMAZEBALLS as Perez would say! The waiters are incredibly nice, sweet, amazing, fantastic, every positive adjective I could say in the English, French, Italian, Spanish, Vietnamese, South African etc. dictionary! They are friendly, and will make your visit one that you will think about every time you go to another restaurant and those bitches are ignoring you, being rude, and messing up your order. So the location, is in a perfect spot. You can park somewhere and walk to the market if you need groceries or to Jammin Java to get your music entertainment on. It's a small little restaurant, however everyone loves intimacy sometimes. The food is delicious. I've eaten here once, yet I've been wanting to go back ever since. Every time I go to Jammin Java I just want to stop by and eat these things on the menu that I've never even heard of before. Thats probably because CHEF MA, imagines these wonderful dishes in his beautiful mind, then makes his imagination a reality and then delivers these creative, yummy, interesting dishes.
(5)
Nicole K.

Amazing food!! Tiny restaurant, but definitely worth visiting. It looks like a fancy diner. My husband and I had the pulled pork, beet salad and the wings, they were all so delicious, flavorful, and delightful. I regret not getting any dessert, but I will definitely be back.
(5)
Nora P.

We went here last night and had a great time. The atmosphere and menu were a refreshing change from the chain Clyde's and PF Chang's and Ruth's Chris' that seem to populate Northern Virginia. I'm shocked that such an affluent and diverse community can't seem to muster up enough independent, eclectic, from-the-heart restaurants like MAR. We felt like we were having a meal back in San Diego, where fresh food, creativity, and passion drive many restaurants' success. Appetizer plates were much more generous than I expected, contrary to what a lot of people here say. I didn't want a huge meal, so I ordered three apps (shrimps and grits, mac and cheese, and tomato bisque). I couldn't finish and just had my leftovers for lunch. Double surprisingly was how relatively INexpensive it was. For food this quality and prepared in a unique and creative way, it was an outstanding value. My bf remarked that you could go up the road to Outback and have a perfectly mediocre meal of totally boring food and pay more. The food was good - I was pleasantly surprised by the heat in my mac n cheese, and the tomato bisque was light and tart. High quality ingredients, and a thoughtful menu - a few southern meets asian dishes as well as New American. Haven't seen a menu like it elsewhere. The shrimp and grits was not my favorite but I'm not generally a fan of Southern food - but wanted to give this dish a try. My BF got the apple salad as an appetizer and it was generous in size and very tasty. He enjoyed his chicken and waffles. We are looking forward to our next meal, and planning on bringing our California friends and family when they visit. MAR is a bright light among the sad state of dining in NoVA, and is just what Vienna needs.
(4)
Evan M.

I'll start by saying that Maple Ave is definitely one of the best places in Vienna, but I felt I had to give it 3 stars for a couple of reasons. 1. Because of the rave reviews on Yelp, I had higher expectations than normal for this place. I will say that the baked macaroni and cheese was very good, but I can't say it was out-of-this world. I ordered the pulled pork BBQ sandwich. It too was alright but not great. The menu said it was homemade BBQ sauce, and some of the qualities of the sauce were off for my taste. For desert, I ordered the funnel cake and it was fantastic. 2. Price - This place isn't cheap. My husband and I spent in the $100 range for an appetizer, 2 dinners, 1 desert and 4 beers. Again, I thought this place was good, but beware the tab can add up fast. 3. The wait - They take reservations and that was our mistake not to call ahead. However when we got there to get a table for two, there were 2 large tables open but that they couldn't seat us at because they were reserved in 1 hour. The hostess didn't want to seat us because she didn't want to have to rush us to leave. We ended up waiting for 40 more minutes to be seated. That was disappointing. 4. Parking (or should I say no parking) 5. No place to wait for a table when it is cold outside or raining. The best thing about this place for me was the funnel cake and the excellent beer. I'd go back, but probably not again for a little while.
(3)
Craig S.

Our first time trying this restaurant, we chose it based on the high quality reviews on Yelp.. Luckily, our faith in fellow Yelp-ers did not steer us wrong (thank you!). She had the Moroccan chicken, I the bulgogi lettuce wraps.. The food was definitely high quality, although the flavors could have been slightly more bold. Overall, a great experience with attentive wait staff, nice ambiance.
(4)
J M.

very good all around, better than you would pay much more for in a lot of places
(4)
Sean C.

Went for brunch - Great presentation, and great food! Make a reservation to make sure you get a table. Normal brunch prices for NoVa
(4)
Chris N.

Very small but I like that. It's personal and intimate and your server will never be bad because...well, there's only about 8 tables haha. Food is good I must say. Haven't had a chance to check out the kitchen but it seems and tastes like they make everything there which is a plus for me. It's nice, simple, and cozy. And the back area is open during spring and summer for a nice "outdoor" seating feel (even though it's closed off). I like it.
(4)
Dwight P.

I trust Yelp to lead me when I don't have the inspiration. MAR will go down in history as the lottery winner of these stabs in the dark dining excursions. My wife and I shared four small plates and...I had to stop typing my review because I couldn't come up with words adequate enough to describe the experience my taste buds had. Beyond description...the mussels were spicy nice, and was that bacon?! Mac and cheese, on another plane of existence. The place was slammed so we actually just ate at the bar in the back...it didn't matter. The food is so good, I would eat it sitting criss-cross applesauce on the sidewalk in front of the place.
(5)
Matt M.

My wife and I ate here for Sunday brunch a couple of weeks ago. It was an incredible dining experience and we left extremely satisfied and wanting to come back. Per the reviews on Yelp, we made reservations and were glad we did. This place is tiny, but our table was reserved and we sat down immediately. The service was attentive, friendly, and warm. Perhaps my only complaint is that because the space is small, it can get quite loud and is therefore hard to carry on a conversation. You are left to hope that you aren't seated next to someone who is particularly loud or obnoxious. We shared the six course brunch tasting menu which was a mere $38. All of the food was good, but I will share the highlights. Our first course was the renowned truffle egg scramble and bacon. As huge fans of truffle, my wife and I were blown away by what appeared to be just a simple scrambled egg. The bacon was also very good, but the eggs were the star. The third course was the charcuterie plate, and we sprung for the bone marrow for an extra six bucks. This was a very good board of a couple of smoked meats, pickled vegetables, jam, and a nice mustard, in addition to the bone marrow. Only complaint was that we could have used a little bit more bread with it. The fifth course was the pork belly hash, which consisted of perfectly cooked pork belly, onions, peppers, and potatoes in a pimenton sauce. Everything was perfect, and this may be my favorite presentation of pork belly I have ever had. The final course was a blueberry cake with vanilla ice cream and dulce de leche. My wife and I are both chocolate fans, but this was one of the best desserts ever. I highly recommend MAR and am looking forward to coming back to try the wings. We still talk about the truffled eggs. Top notch.
(5)
Nicole S.

We came here for restaurant week and the options of the prefixed menu were phenomenal! We had the mussels, shrimp and grits, mushroom risotto and the scallops with coconut risotto!! And to top it off dessert was excellent too! We will definitely be back for the first two courses! The service was really friendly and we didn't feel rushed even coming in close to closing time!
(5)
Alyssa K.

Shrimp and Grits, Fried Green Tomatoes, Bronzino, Softshells with Curry. We really liked it. it's a little place, and though I'm generally loud, I'm a courteous diner. Can't say the same for at least 2 people last night. Really overwhelming when you have a loud one in there. Service was good. Tables are small too. Food was delicious.
(4)
Nadine F.

It's not often that I leave a restaurant feeling like the experience was completely flawless. I loved everything about Maple Ave Restaurant. I'd been wanting to try it for years, but I was turned off by the small size and the reviews that suggested I might have to wait in line. Thankfully, they're on OpenTable now. We made reservations for Sunday brunch earlier in the day, and there was plenty of availability. There was no wait once we arrived, and the place was pretty empty. The restaurant is very tiny, though, and it filled up quickly, so I would recommend reservations. The hostess/server was an absolute delight. She was very nice and fast with everything. I got the almond ricotta pancakes, and they were definitely in the top three pancakes of my life, if not the best. Everything was reasonably priced, and I like how their brunches are in good portions and come with everything you would possibly want in a brunch. For example, the pancakes came with home fries and bacon, and I felt full but not bad about myself after cleaning my plate. I then moved onto Alan K.'s plate and ate a bunch of his truffled eggs, which were also excellent. I had a poinsettia and a coffee to drink, and they were both great, no diner-style coffee here! This is without a doubt my new go-to brunch spot, and I would definitely go back to try the dinner as well.
(5)
Ian F.

Came here for brunch with my fiancee, her sisters, and her sister's husband. This tiny restaurant with only 9 tables boasts some of the best food I've had in NOVA. Moderately priced, but serves entrees with very sophisticated flavors and thoughtful combinations. Don't skip the truffled eggs or the blueberry pancakes. Excited to try dinner there some time.
(5)
N - Pyranhadoc - W.

Thoroughly enjoyed our Monday night special in the small eclectic dining establishments. Maple Ave is one of the smallest full service, high quality restaurants I've had the pleasure of visiting in the past few years. Though small in size, the quality of food and service was huge. We loved the duck and also the scallop mains.
(5)
Alan K.

Amazing food, perfect service! It doesn't get much better than this. We came in for brunch on a Saturday. Having heard that the place is tiny and fills up quickly, we made a reservation before heading out the door. It's a good thing we did, because there are only a handful of tables in this tiny space. The building definitely has a lot of character, with high glass windows encasing the small dining room. I ordered the truffled eggs, and Nadine F. ordered the ricotta almond pancakes. Everything was so good, with delicious flavors and delightful textures. The seasoning on the potatoes was perfect, the eggs were light and fluffy, the dressing on the salad was refreshing...I could go on and on! The pancakes were my favorite, I can think of only one pancake in my life that rivals this one. I'm thinking we'll make this our regular brunch spot!
(5)
Jess Y.

So I pass by Maple Ave all the time and was always intrigued. So, I was super excited to finally check it out. Make a reservation before you go because it is tiny. As in, I think there are literally 6 tables. (Although, I have read that they apparently have a back seating area that is open on certain nights? Or maybe there's a secret password? Open sesame?) Menu is split into small plates and main plates. They recommend 2-3 small plates per person and I would have to agree that the small plates are seriously small. The main plates though are huge. We ordered 2 small plates: the fried cauliflower and the shrimp & grits based on the recommendations of previous Yelpers. My two cents? The fried cauliflower was really interesting--loved the first few that were not drenched in the garlic/lime sauce at the bottom because they were crispy and flavorful. They remind me of this Chinese fried chicken pieces dish but I do not remember the name of it. Anyway, I think the dish would have been a lot better if the sauce was placed on the side for dipping to prevent sogginess at the bottom of the bowl. Good portions on the fried cauliflower though. The shrimp & grits were creamy and delicious. The shrimp were cooked absolutely perfectly--just done. As for main dishes....ORDER THE SCALLOPS. Oh my sweet word, you will not regret it. The scallops were seared to perfection--the meat was tender and cooked just right and the outside crispy. They were laid on a bed of creamy coconutty risotto and in the center was a scoop of basil ice cream. Yes, ice cream--in the entree. I thought it was crazy when I first read the description on the menu, but when it came out and I tried it with the risotto and the scallops, it made perfect sense. The creaminess of the ice cream and the risotto balanced perfectly and the coolness of the basil was exactly what the dish needed. I can't imagine going back to eating regular scallops with risotto now without this basil ice cream! Seriously, one of the best dishes I have ever had in my life. My dining partner ordered the bronzini fish. It was huge but it seemed slightly over cooked. It was a bit dry. But, the fried rice beneath it was delicious. We both agreed, however, that the scallops dish was the winner. For dessert, we shared the chocolate dumplings. I have to say that they were good: I mean you can't go wrong with warm and gooey chocolate wrapped in a crispy fried dumpling shell to be enjoyed with fresh vanilla ice cream. But, they were very reminiscent of chocolate chip cookie dough egg rolls that I have had at a restaurant in Nashville--and I have to say that the cookie dough egg rolls beat out the chocolate dumplings. Still, a pretty unique and delicious end to dinner. Next time, I would definitely try the Yuzu lime pie though. Service was prompt and friendly. Overall, a great dining experience with some really unique dishes! I would definitely come back to try some of the other options...and to order those Seared Scallops again! YUM!
(4)
Becky S.

BEST GRITS I've had in my life! :) This is where my boyfriend and I went on our first date. It remains in a special place in my heart! He was looking for a nice restaurant close to my work, and a friend told him in no uncertain terms, "You're going to Maple Ave. Restaurant." I'm so thankful for that suggestion back then. We've seen it since featured in Washington Magazine's Best DC Restaurants!
(5)
Nick H.

Every once in a while, you come across a restaurant that pleases you so much, you can't wait to return. Maple Ave is that restaurant. My initial thought when I first walked through the doors was concern over how small the restaurant was. Fortunately, I had made a reservation and was seated within a few minutes by the beautiful waitress. After cheerfully presenting my choices in terms of the specials of the day, I was presented with the unique menu that blends asian, latin, and americana dishes with a classic French feel to it, but spiced with a contemporary twist. Since the first trip, I've made numerous trips back, and each time I bring a friend (or three) that have never been before, in order to spread the happiness which I have after eating here. Among the many dishes I've had that were delicious are the crab cake sandwich, the "dr. pepper" ribs, and my personal favorite: the chicken and waffles. The dish features a number of phenomenal appetizers as well (which they refer to as "small plates"). And when the meal reached its end, I had a heavenly lime pie. I'm excited to always make a return to Maple Ave.
(5)
Jennifer G.

Yum! I'm so happy to see little restaurants like this cropping up in Vienna. I love Vienna! As much as I love the Vienna Inn & the new Church Street Pizza & Bazin's, I'm loving some options that aren't chains! I hate chain restaurants! So Cheers to you Maple Ave Restaurant, you've brought some more awesomeness to my little hometown. As for the food, it was great & I think it's important that you get dessert, specifically the Lime Pie/Tart. Perfect.
(4)
Stephanie B.

Wow! What a find! Absolutely well-conceived dishes, full of flavor, and in an unexpected setting. Ate there for brunch, although did not really try their breakfast dishes. Tried the following "small" plates: - Thai okra - absolutely delicious dish, definitely big enough to share with one or two other people if eating as a side dish. $9 - Shrimp and grits - best grits I think I have ever had, definitely a notch above even those I've had in other high-end restaurants. Small dish portion at brunch was served with five large shrimp. $9 - Creme fresh chicken wings - beware, these are rather spicy, but absolutely delicious, nothing like your average chicken wing. $9 Lunch plates: - Mushroom zucchini risotto - definitely tasty but I think they could have bumped up the flavor a bit. $16 - Seared scallops - this was served with an absolutely delicious coconut risotto with a small scoop of basil ice cream. The flavors combined were delicious. Served with three large scallops. $16 Sweet plates: - chocolate dumplings - fried pastry shells with melted chocolate inside and vanilla ice cream - unique and tasty. $8 - bittersweet chocolate bread pudding - my favorite of the two, some bites were packed with gooey chocolate. Served with ice cream. $8 Bonus: The menu clearly marks which dishes can be made gluten-free. Service was great, informed and unrushed.
(5)
Alexa C.

This is a small wonder found right on 123 (Maple Avenue) in the heart of Vienna. You could easily miss it when you're driving by, but make sure you don't! This day we went for brunch, and I had the truffled eggs with breakfast potatoes, bacon and a side salad. They were sensitive to my gluten allergy, and did a great job catering to it, as the menu was marked with what was what as far as gluten free goes. Everyone at the table loved everything they tried, each had unique flavors and felt like they were homemade especially for us, not in a restaurant kitchen. The size of the restaurant is very small, and therefore, make sure you make a reservation, even for brunch or lunch. They also do not do any substitutions, but why would you need to with this menu? Too bad we didn't leave room for dessert, with the funnel cake we saw at a neighboring table, my mouth was watering again. There are just enough parking spots in a lot next to and behind the restaurant, so get there a little early to make sure you can find one.
(5)
Meixin W.

Just awesome. A small yet classy restaurant with no pretentions. It's a great price for the quality of food (excellent). I got the wings for apps, and its everything that bon chon should be (though I don't think it's meant to be bon chon, but this is what I just think) and it has a nice tang and crispness. For entree I got the scallop risotto with basil ice cream. The basil ice cream was such a great surprise, delicious and creamy but still basily. The scallops were huge, and risotto creamy, though the rice could've been cooked a bit more. I got the chocolate bread pudding for dessert, and it was the best chunk of bread pudding I've ever had. So yummy and the perfect texture, and the chocolate and vanilla ice cream were so good. Great service, and a very nice ambiance. As I said, it's small so it's not obnoxiously loud. Great place for a nicer dinner or a date.
(5)
Samuel G.

The old saying "Don't judge a book by its cover" has never been more appropriate, when it comes to a place like the Maple Ave. Restaurant. Nondescript from the outside, to the point of being totally 'missable' (and we have passed it by all too often in the past couple of years), it hides away a mecca of marvelous morsels to tempt the tastebuds of even the most fickle of foodies. They promise both sweet and savory small plates, but what they deliver goes beyond much at what you will find at larger venues that offer bigger (but not better) portions. I never thought, for one example, that in this lifetime I would ever learn to love "fried cauliflower." The mere idea of what it would turn out to be under my unskilled hands is enough to make even Andrew Zimmern cringe! Yet they have managed to take this unimaginable concept and turn it into a dish with a flavor so stunningly sumptuous, it may have you asking for seconds...AND thirds! In two visits, Maple Ave. has become THE restaurant we wish to return to time and time again for our most special occasions. And you can bet that very soon, we will be bringing both friends and family for a visit...but not without making reservations, which - due to the tiny space they have to work with - are STRONGLY recommended. As is the food! P.S.: Just had to mention another great dish: the shrimp with grits. If you were never a fan of the dish, (and I wasn't), just one bite of the MAR version will make you into an INSTANT believer. Me, I can still kind of do without the shrimp, but I just want to jump into a vat of those grits and happily DROWN. They are THAT good!
(5)
T y.

Maple ave restaurant did not disappoint! I came here with my girl friends. It's a really small unassuming place with the most amazing food. We started off with mussels, beer battered fries, and crÃ¨me fraiche chicken wings. They're all very tasty, especially the fries are to die for! For entrees, we had braised beef cheeks and seared scallops, the beef was very tender. The seared scallops came with a ball of basil ice cream in the middle of the risotto, that was a bit weird in concept but tasted great. We were pretty full after all that food, we still couldn't pass on dessert, and we're so glad that we didn't. We had chocolate dumplings and mochi ice cream, just a side note, the mochi ice cream is the only thing that is not made in house, but they're definitely not supermarket brand, either. The chocolate dumplings is fried to perfection! I would recommend this place and return again to try something else!!
(5)
Debbie S.

The food here is a bit pricey but it is definitely worth it. They use fresh local ingredients in all their dishes and everything is made from scratch. I do recommend making a reservation because the restaurant is pretty small and could fill up pretty quick. I went here a couple weeks ago and ordered the fried oysters as a starter which by the way were super fresh and not overly cooked. For our entrees Jay got the Dr. Pepper short ribs which was phenomenal. The meat was tender and oh so flavorful and the grits were A-Mazing! I had the the Panko Chicken Sandwich on a brioche bun. You can definitely taste the freshness in the chicken and the truffle mayo was divine. The only thing I was a little disappointed in was the red velvet cup. It was dry and flavorless. Even thought the dessert was not on point it did not ruin my dinner. I would love to try this place out again.
(4)
David P.

On our second visit, after dining there a couple of years ago, we stopped by on a Friday night and were seated in the back dining room without a wait. I decided to have a couple of appetizers as did the wife. The creme fraiche wings were excellent, with the right amount of sweet, sour and spicy tang. Much better than buffalo wings in other places. The surprise hit of the night were the Thai okra. Even our normally veggie averse kids loved them. I had the marrow, since I don't normally find it on menus. It was quite good, and satisfy my craving for marrow for the night. For dessert, I had the rice pudding which we all enjoyed. I like Maple Ave Restaurant for being different than the other places in this area, and being more casual than other places that might serve this type of food.
(4)
Zach L.

This is a small, wonderful restaurant if you're looking for something enjoyable and low-key on a Tuesday night. My girlfriend and I have been there twice. Both times we've thoroughly enjoyed our food. I recommend going with multiple small plates, since they seem to put a little more care into these. I've had a variety of things, from scallops with basil ice cream to mac and cheese, and all of it was fantastic.
(4)
Stacy G.

5 Stars for the food and service. The food is divine and you will savor every morsel. You will realize that you are taking the smallest bites you can to make each taste last as long as possible. However I had to take off 1 star because the environment does not match the food. The seating area is tiny, the tables are very close together, and the place has a bit of a run down look to it in spite of the fresh coat of paint and obvious effort they have put in. This isn't a failing on the restaurant owner's part because they have done all they can. It's just not a good location for them. Also the parking lot is ridiculously small as well and hard to maneuver. The Panko Chicken Sandwich is the best and juiciest I have ever tasted. I didn't think it was possible to upstage Chick-Fil-A when it comes to juicy chicken sandwiches, but this restaurant leaves them in the dust. I ate there about 1 year ago and I can STILL remember the delicate taste of that chicken sandwich. The Panko Chicken Sandwich is amply large and impeccably cooked, so I wouldn't even mind $16 except for the depressing seating area, which makes the price seem out of proportion for the experience. This place is still worth going to. If I lived closer I would undoubtedly eat at Maple Ave more often. But my advice to the owners is this: Change locations. Your experiment works - people LOVE your food(the reviews here prove that). I understand that sometimes small businesses and restaurants don't succeed and you want to be careful not to invest too much money into a business before you know it works. But your product is good. This restaurant would probably do better at another spot in Vienna. You would also flourish at Fairfax Corner.
(4)
Christopher L.

I organized a group of 12 friends for a dinner before we went to the Barns for a 7:30 PM show. Joey was very accommodating, especially for a Saturday evening. She worked with me on a reduced/tailored menu (so that all the food could arrive at the same time), and organized a long table so we could all sit together. And the food was hailed by all as "sublime", "clever", "tasty", and "amazing". The most popular comment from my foodie friends was "who are these guys?", with "I would have walked by this place without even seeing it" a close second. Here's what we enjoyed: Small Plates organic beet salad apple salad suki yaki shrimp baked mac Main Plates moroccan chicken beer braised beef cheeks seared scallops mushroom zucchini risotto All offerings were excellent, service was amazing, and the wine list (albeit limited) was well designed. I wish these guys were in the Annapolis area (which sorely needs this kind of energy and imagination). Bravo!
(5)
Tom C.

Delicious. Located in Vienna, this restaurant is definitely worth a try. At first my SO and I were disappointed with the disappearance of the Mac and cheese from the menu, but were pleasantly surprised by the tiger shrimp and grits appetizer, although portion size was a bit too small (think 3 shrimp). We also ordered the Moroccan chicken which, like other reviewers said, was tasty although we were not fans of the couscous. We also ordered a fish dish which was cooked perfectly and the fried rice was amazing. Our dinner ended with the creative chocolate dumplings which had surprisingly great texture and the hot dish went well with the cold ice cream. 1 star was lost on atmosphere though. The seating is cramped as is the parking lot beside it. Not family friendly (one six-person table).
(4)
Amanda S.

You can't go wrong with any of the beautifully crafted dishes at Maple Avenue! I bring anyone and everyone I want to impress here. The mussels are some of the best you'll ever have! Also noteworthy dishes: fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, chicken Panko with truffle mayonnaise sandwich, and the Thai Fried Okra (please bring it back!!) Their desserts are unique and fantastic! There aren't enough glorious adjectives to describe how much I love this place! I eat here probably once a week. I wish I could afford more than once! Ricardo is also a fantastic server. He's very personable but not intrusive. Do yourself a favor, go there as soon as possible! Ask for Ricardo! The only negative thing I could possibly say, is that I wish it were open 24/7! EDIT: (10/31/12) Maple Avenue is now open on Monday nights!!! They are offering a 3 course menu for something like $30-35! Best news ever!
(5)
Alex R.

This evening of disappointment began when we tried to call in advance for a reservation and our call was not taken nor was there a message box just endless ringing. Upon arrival only seating available was in the back which resembled something like a garage without the charm. Oh and don't forget the strange unappealing odor and used Ikea furniture. Now let's talk the food, well not much good to say here. The shrimp appie was ok but horribly overpriced as was everything else. Ditto on the second appie uninspired, edible and again completely overpriced for what we received. Then the MAIN, umm how do I say this NEVER order the chicken. Unless of course you like fatty and bland. Truly the worst meal i have eaten in Vienna in the last 5 years. Do yourself a favor and go to the Vienna Inn, better atmosphere, better food, and 1/3 the price.
(1)
Philip L.

I remember back when this was Anita's and I'm really happy that the location is doing well. That being said, it looks like not much decor wise has changed since it was Anita's. It's a small room, which is cozy and adds to the minimalist high end cuisine vibe. The night we went though, that smallness was a disadvantage as a group one table over was trying to watch a NCAA tourney game on their iPhones and through the window at Foster's or Panera (is there a TV at Panera??). So having people yell and whoop like it was a bar in a room the size of a kitchen does no favors. Foodwise, we ordered to interesting plates, but they didn't seem to come off particularly well. It was edible, but for how the restaurant is positioning itself, it survives in Vienna, but wouldn't hack it in Arlington much less Brooklyn. The variation on sauteed okra came out dry and burnt - the mussels were tasty, but I got the impression that throwing on pork into any plate will accomplish what they were trying to do. The onion rice for the branzini reminded me more of chinese take out than anything else. The shrimp and grits - well, let that tasty dish stand alone. If i had only ordered 3 of those, this would be a different review - Happy to see a restaurant like this in Vienna. A for effort, B/B- final grade.
(3)
Susan H.

I'm not a hard critic but my expectations were set high by all the previous reviewers. In my opinion it was just ok. We ordered the shrimp and grits. I guess I can understand limiting the number of shrimp to 3 as an appetizer but grits are very, very cheap and there was barely a spoon size portion. I have had better at Matchbox and of course in the south. My chicken entree was also on the small portion size and at $20. I expected more. My husband selected the fish and it was a much larger portion and the rice dish it was served with was very good. Anyway, I think it is a local fav and that is why the high stars for the reviews. I would pick Nostos and Bazins as well as many others at the same cost. Sorry I could not give it a better review.
(2)
Ryan G.

My brother and sister in law took us for an awesome brunch at Maple Ave today. I strongly recommend the pumpkin pancakes and the delicious french press coffee. We didn't partake, but they also offer "bottomless" mimosas or bloody marys (and you can mix and match). Will definitely be trying this when in the mood for a Sunday morning drink. This recommendation would have gotten five stars, but at the end of the meal, we wanted to share some beignets we saw on the menu. We were informed they were ONLY available if we ordered the pricey 7 course tasting menu. The customer is always first and even Denny's will serve you something 'off menu' if you just ask. Maple - Please consider accommodating your guests special requests!
(3)
Chuck M.

Happened across this place while in Vienna and really enjoyed it. John D's review was a bit harsh. The server tells you up front how their menu works. If you aren't up for it, leave. If you don't want small plates, they have entree-sized meals that are reasonably priced. I got the pulled pork sandwich and it was great. The place is small, but that's kind of nice. Pretty relaxing atmosphere. The only gripe I have is about the design of the plates themselves...they slide all over the table. Careful!
(4)
Amanda M.

Wow this place is tiny!! Conversation is amplified by 10 in this place! Just FYI. There are probably about 12 tables. I ordered the Shrimp and Grits as an appetizer. The shrimp was cooked perfectly and the plate itself was a good portion. I would highly recommend this dish. Then ordered the Rice Bowl. Wow how disappointing. I thought the spam and pork belly were going to be chopped up next to the rice kimchi and fried egg. It was separate almost like a bento box. It was very overpriced at $16 and had to cut up everything, kind of defeats the purpose of it being in a bowl don't you think? Also had the kimchi burger. Bread was really dry. Kimchi was cooked well so that was pretty yum. I ordered the burger medium but it just tasted pretty dry and was really odd with the fries, I think they need a better side that goes with it. Then ordered the funnel cake and chocolate dumpling for dessert. Both were gross and definitely not worth $6 each. I would stick to something they don't cook, like mochi ice cream. The chocolate dumping tasted like it had regular hershey's syrup in it and the dough wasn't pastry dough it was the type of dough you used for wontons. I almost had the urge to dip it in soy sauce. I was really looking forward to eating here because the menu sounded amazing but left disappointed and definitely not returning again.
(1)
Heifer L.

My gfs and I normally hit up DC for brunch because bottomless mimosas are offered everywhere. But this time they wanted to come over to my neck of the woods, NoVa?! Their only request was bottomless mimosas. This was the only place in the Tysons Corner area offering bottomless mimosas. The place looked like a dive! We haven't even stepped in my friends were having 2nd thoughts. They were ready to go across the street to Panera but the bottomless mimosas is what push them through the doors. A very cute and cozy little restaurant with only 5/6 tables. It wasn't busy at all so services was spectacular. I had ordered the Panko Chicken Sandwich - it was really good! and did the Bottomless Cocktails for $15. They gave you 3 choices of bottomless cocktails: Mimosa, Bloody Mary, and Poinsetta. I had the Poinsetta which was really good and strong! Everyone ended up loving the place.
(5)
Diane B.

I had a great dinner out! I found the Monday night special (35$/pp for 3 courses, 1/2 price wine) to be a great deal. The food was creative and well done! I had mussels that were not overcooked for a change, and my chocolate dumplings were de-lish. I liked the small size; to a former Baltimorean, it gave the restaurant a quirky feel that you don't find much in Nova. I also liked the concept of a surprise me menu; it's similar to the concept of Ad Hoc in Yountville, CA. Maybe I really liked it because I was on a date w/out my baby, but I think I really will like it again when I come back!
(5)
Jon M.

SUPERB! That is the word that comes to mind after I overly enjoyed this establishment. Service, Food, Drinks were SUPERB! Maple has just jumped into my TOP 5 FAVORITE LIST. I know its a hassle to make a reservation but this place is worth it. Enjoy!
(5)
Amber B.

The brunch here is fantastic! We had the 6-course tasting menu for 2 and loved every bite. The coffee was also very fresh and served in a French press. We will definitely be back!
(5)
Scott S.

This is my third time at the restaurant, and every time I go I am just in awe of how amazing the food is. This time I went for lunch and my friend and I shared the Suki Yaki Shrimp, I had the Scallops with Coconut Risotto and Basil Ice Cream, my friend had the Moroccan Chicken, and we split the Yuzu Lime Pie. Each dish was better than the last, culminating in the unbelievable feat that is the Yuzu Lime Pie (this coming from a non-dessert lover, with the exception of Key Lime pies of which I've had plenty). Food wise the place is a 5, but I'm giving it a 4 mostly for ambiance and menu variety. Ambiance-wise I don't mind the smallness and casualness of the restaurant, it is more that every time I have gone it is either empty or so full that it is extremely noisy (since it is a small space). With regard to the menu, I love everything on there and they change it up every now and then, I just feel like there could be more variety. The current menu has 3 of the 7 (no sweet breads today anyways) dishes containing chicken... Anyways... these nitpicks are minor. I am a huge fan and you should be too.
(4)
Brandon G.

Maple ave is a small place with big flavor. The atmosphere is a few ticks shy of spectacular but that isn't the reason you should go. With only about 8 tables and a grandiose view of a mechanic shop they are setting you up for a big Surprise! sort of moment when you take your first bite. I believe it is all a ploy, small restaurant with crappy surroundings and parking that will make you wish you would've just walked..... they have you primed so they can see the look on your face when they serve you fresh, creative, delicious and inspired food that leaves you ready to come back for more as soon as you can..... Tricky chefs. Everything on the menu is mouthwatering and a thorough glance leaves you as confused as it does hungry. The choices are few but well planned with three different types of plates, you have the options of small plates, which are like large appetizers, regular plates and sweet plates. I was feeling frisky so I decided to go with one of each. For my small plate I chose the mussels with chorizo and garlic. They brought me a ridiculously large bowl of the most delicious mussell's I have ever eaten. Alongside the mussels they served a very crispy grilled toast which, when paired with the mussels and chorizo, made my taste buds perform a samba. My regular plate was the panko chicken sandwich with truffle mayo served with French fries. The fries were coated in what one reviewer called "pepper" but I would call "rosemary". They were delicious. The chicken on my sandwich was perfectly fried and served on an amazing bun with the aforementioned truffle mayo and rosemary pickles. This is what created a problem for me with the whole plate. The rosemary pickles were delicious but powerful. When coupled with the rosemary fries it created and fragrant plate of rosemary leaving my taste buds spoiled. It became hard to decipher any flavors other than the rosemary and it left me less than impressed. On to the sweet plate..... This is the best part and it makes me smile just thinking about it. Chocolate dumplings fried to tasty perfection. They were filled with dark chocolate and served alongside homemade vanilla ice-cream. If you are anywhere near this restaurant you owe to yourself to go get this dessert. I will never forget this place thanks to the chocolate dumplings. One of the best desserts I have ever had and the only thing that could make them better is if they were close to my home in tennesssee. One for the road: park across the street in the grocery store lot.
(4)
J A.

Great food! Small and cozy, dessert was awesome and the place is a must try. Parking is small, so I recommend walking over. Cost is reasonable, but not over the top. If you are looking for Denny's, then this is not the place for you.
(5)
Katie N.

Unique & cozy restaurant with some tasty dishes in Vienna. Service was friendly and professional. Be warned: you most likely will have to make a reservation; the place is tiny. Food: we had the baked mac and cheese and the shrimp and grits. Both were good and well seasoned, but I preferred the Mac. The pasta was cooked well, al dente. My husband had the bonzini (sea bass) while I chose the scallops. Both were good picks, however I didn't enjoy the basil ice cream/risotto combination as much as I would have liked. I think it was something about the two mixing temperatures and textures that turned me off. We tried the mochi for dessert and while it was interesting, again, I don't think it is something I would order again. Overall, we enjoyed our time and our food experience and would visit again.
(4)
Alan N.

Maple ave is the best restaurant in Vienna hands down, the atmosphere of the dinning room is TINY and you get the vibe like they are trying to be hipster/trendy and it works if it wasn't for the obscure artwork of local artist they have on the walls. I've been twice and this place is never busy which is a shame and a good thing in my opinion; I want them to be busy so they don't close down and more people can discover how amazing the food is here but then I don't want it to be so busy that when I show up I have to wait an hour for a table. They have a small bar in the back but I'm not sure if there is a TV back there, It was strange since the back bar had the feel of one of those Brooklyn dive bars I've been to in NYC. Now for the important part, the food at Maple Ave is absolutely to die for! Its all local farm fresh food and they have a small garden on the roof that they grow some of their own herbs. When it comes to the style of food, its a fusion place that mixes euro style food with some Asian influences. I've tried a few of their dishes and I have to recommend the mussels, they are always cooked to perfection and the broth that they are served in was so good that I wanted to take the bowl and just gulp every last drop of it down. One of the nice things about this place is that they have a food truck that drives around the Vienna and Tysons corner area. I'm fortunate that they stop at a building thats about a 5 minute walk for me. I always order their bulgogi pita wraps, if you know anything about bulgogi its a korean dish and is usually not the best cut of meat but the cut they use is top notch. It has a kimchi puree in it that makes this wrap perfect. If your ever in Vienna this place is a must go.
(4)
Michael L.

The Maple Avenue Restaurant was such a pleasant experience. We originally ordered only two courses-dinner and dessert (Moroccan Chicken with beer battered fries and Yuzu lime pie). The waiter suggested that we instead get the fries as an appetizer. Great suggestion. The chicken was a decent sized portion over a great fall vegetable mix (I detected cabbage, onions, carrots, maybe sweet potatoes, and mushrooms) with a buttery cream sauce. Cooked to perfection. The lime pie came highly recommended, and was certainly worth it. It was NOT heavily lime flavored. Rather, the lime was a part of the pie. The crust was nice and crumbly, and the pie was topped with a delicious merengue. I will certainly go back. You must make reservations, however, and parking is limited.
(5)
D.K. L.

Hand's down my favorite place to go. Great for dates if you aren't into pretentious ambiance. It's nothing fancy but the service is amazing, the food is amazing. Once I came every week bc I had a weird addiction to this place but as my title says I live to eat so now and then I love eating out all the time but there are days I just like to stay home and eat whatevers in the fridge. But i've had everything on the menu and my favs are : okra, everything on the brunch menu, the french press coffee.. I also love chicken pate if you are into it, it's super tasty. The only thing I didn't like was their brunch drink specials bc it was too sweet or watered down for me :). I would try another place if you want to get a good brunch bloody mary.
(5)
James S.

This place is SOOOOOOOOO small but SOOOOOOOOOO good. So make reservations. ^_^
(4)
Jacquelyn K.

Just call me Tony Kornheiser, because I'm gassing up the old bandwagon for Maple Avenue Restaurant. For the four of you that get that reference and want to stick around for the review, let's continue! Located in the original Anita's restaurant space, Maple Avenue Restaurant truly embodies the old maxim, "good things come in small packages." There isn't a lot of space to stretch out in this tiny spot, but once you try the food all worldly cares melt away - TRUST ME! The small plates options were both very affordable and generous - we went with the complex and utterly delightful shrimp and grits, the classic and perfectly dressed apple/blue cheese/walnut salad, the fresh and intriguing tuna tartare, and the deliciously decadent macaroni and cheese. The service was out of this world, as well. Ask for Charlotte, who was our very thoughtful and considerate server. The meal was perfectly paced, nothing was lacking, the flavors were delightful, and the bill didn't break the bank. What more could you ask for?
(5)
Sara D.

The best lightly breaded chicken on a bed of lettuce I've ever had. I grew up in Vienna and I wish this had been there! Its too bad I don't live closer to it, or maybe they should expand to W. Alexandria? The place is a little small so I wouldn't go with a group without a reservation or call-ahead. The focus here is all on the food and the furnishings are pretty minimal, but thats ok! Thats how it should be (in my opinion).
(5)
Chris O.

You can add my voice to the five-star chorus singing the praises of Maple Ave Restaurant... ...of course you probably won't be able to hear me, because my mouth will be so full of creamy macaroni and cheese, yummy venison sausage and tasty tuna tartare. In fact, let's just skip the recital and head straight into covering me with the delicious peppery sauce from the shrimp and grits. While you're at it, slather me in whatever they dressed the apple and walnut salad with. On a serious note, I'm incredibly happy that my ladyfriend suggested this place and, as usual, I'm incredibly happy that I listened to her. The food was great, the atmosphere was relaxed and the service was excellent. Eight cheers to the chef, whose talent made for exciting and complex flavour combinations.
(5)
Frank W.

I loved the Grits and Shrimp (!) but my main dish, the Moroccan chicken was greasy and not very flavorful. My wife had the pulled pork sandwich which I though was dry and the French fries were way too salty. The again my wife loved it. Beats me she is normally the healthy eater in the family. The funnel cake served with vanilla ice cream was nice and we both enjoyed it.
(3)
N J.

MAR is in a small stand-alone building in 123 and the parking lot is tiny. But it's such a pleasant little surprise. I recommend the shrimp and grits, apple salad, and steamed mussels. I've had their baked mac as the secret menu item twice. And loved it both times. Also the funnel cake was such a fun and yummy treat at the end. I highly recommend MAR!!
(4)
Meg G.

A friend and I were emailing about going to brunch. We decided to meet up this weekend. Her only requirement for brunch was that it needed to have "bottomless" mimosas. I typed "Bottomless mimosas tysons corner" into Google, and Maple Avenue Restaurant was returned. We went ahead and made reservations (thank goodness, its tiny) I grew up in Vienna and remember when the building this restaurant is in used to be Anitas. I think that was the last time I was in there. Yummy, interesting food. I had the panko chicken sandwich. It was so good and tasted so fresh. The fries were awesome too. I also got a side salad, which was good - but unecessary (and pricey for the small size), as the sandwich and fries would've been enough food. I didn't have any, but my husband and our friend were raving over the shrimp and grits small plate. Oh, and the bottomless drinks - I didn't have any, but my friend and our husbands did. For $15, you get a choice of 2 types of mimosa (regular and peach), bloody mary, or a poinsettia. You can mix and match drinks to your heart's content. Reviews from my dining partners were that the peach mimosas were awesome. All in all a good experience. A tad pricey, but a good place to go if you want to mix it up a bit (or spend your sunday drinking). Parking lot is teeeeeeeny.
(4)
Sammie L.

Maple Ave has nine tables, so be sure to make a reservation. This is an interesting place which serves small and large plates, focused on seasonal ingredients and flavors. Parking is a pain in the rear so manage your expectations and your time.
(4)
Danya D.

We just came out of this restaurant. Food was pretty good. We ordered multiple small dishes to have more variety. The highlights were the thom yum soup - not super spicy and pretty flavorful; and the dessert, the yuzu lime pie - very sweet, but the lime portion and the crust balance the sweetness.
(4)
A B.

Sooooo good! Recommended by a co-worker. I went on Sunday for brunch. The place has NO ambiance but totally makes up for it with the amazing food. My husband and I did the 6 course brunch tasting menu and each course was fabulous. The service was great and I will definitely go back for dinner. Try this place before the chef becomes famous and opens a pricey DC joint!
(5)
Kelly M.

Best restaurant in Northern Virginia. You'll find ordinary meals (like the pulled pork sandwich) that are better than any you've ever tried before. And you'll find odd menu items that are the chef's own creations -- sometimes you'll see something totally weird on the menu, but when you try it you'll see that it works. You will never be bored here, and the food tastes amazing. The restaurant space is tiny and parking is a pain but you can always park across the street. It's worth the slight inconvenience. The staff are super friendly and happy to answer questions about anything on the menu. You also have the pleasure of knowing you are supporting local farmers since much of the food is local.
(5)
John S.

Thanks to Yelper reviews, I found this place in Vienna. I must have passed it scores of times and never thought about eating here. Great food and service. A foodie delight. Only 9 tables according to the server. Normally, reservations have to be made 2 weeks in advance. We got a same day res on a Sunday in July, normally a slow time for restaurants. There is parking along the side and back,but it is tight. It's squeezed in between a car wash and a tire shop. The space is pretty ramshackle, but the food is 5 star. I had Thai okra for an appetizer. I love fried okra, but it is normally encased in breading. Not here. The okra was done perfectly and had a nice spicy sauce. My son had ceviche, which I thought was just ok. He had some kind of rabbit ragout, and shrimp and grits. i had the whole Bronzino, which was done perfectly, although I had to debone it myself. We shared the chocolate dumplings. They only have French Press coffee. The chef is really inventive. The service is excellent. Menu and wine list is short, since it's a small place. One of my new favorites. Can't wait to come back with friends.
(4)
Amy T.

this place is TINY. i think it fits like 30 people max and you're constantly trying to keep your voice down so others don't hear your convo. Parking is horrible. You're afraid of scraping the car next to you or behind you. Service is great because its so tiny, you don't expect any less. The food is a definitely Asian Fusion but not so exotic that you are flabbergasted. The mac & cheese was tasty but nothing special. Their sandwiches are a great portion for the price and a little different but nothing too wild that an average person would decline. Overall - great concept and idea but I wouldn't go again twice for the heck of it. I would take a friend that has never been that would like to try something different.
(3)
Andrew N.

the food here was pretty good! my wife had the sea scallop risotto which was delicious like all the other reviewers have said, and i had the venison omelet which wasn't that special but still tasted great. the only thing is our waiter forgot one of our drink orders. other than that the food and expectations were met with the minor set back with the service missing one of our orders. definitely a great place for brunch!
(4)
Doug S.

This is a jewel of a restaurant! Simple, elegant food. Great staff and the chef is fantastic! If you find yourself in this part of the country....you must go to Maple Avenue!!!!
(5)
Elaine K.

We ended up here while wandering the streets of Vienna after initial plans fell through. The place is TINY. Thanks to good timing, we were seated immediately. The place was packed within 10 minutes of us sitting down. They're Vienna's only green-certified Restaurant. They use lots of local ingredients, some of which is organic. The beer selection was impressive for the size of the establishment. We went for the smaller, but not disappointing wine selection instead. We split Sweet Potato Gnocchi. It was really tasty. It wasn't exactly what I was expecting, but still very good. I had the Dr. Pepper Short Rib, and my friend had the Pork Chop which was a special. Both were well-seasoned, well-cooked, and really tasty. We skipped dessert, though it was tempting! It was $65 for two glasses of wine, a small plate, and two large plates. While the portions are kind of small, it was enough to satisfy my hunger.
(4)
Julian V.

This is a charming little place. Smack dab in the heart of Vienna, it's a nice place to dine. I initially thought it to be expensive but it's definitely managable. My friend and I skipped on main courses and split three small plates plus a dessert which was perfect for lunch. Our split check came out to $17 a person with tax, assuming you drink water. We ordered: - Mussels Steamed in Curry Broth - Shrimp and Grits - Eggs Benedict - Chocolate Dumplings Here's the breakdown: Mussels Steamed in Curry Broth (***) Completely boring and underwhelming. This is the reason why Maple Ave didn't get five stars. The curry did not pack any punch, the broth was very watered down, and the coconut flavor was very minimal. They tried to add a little pizazz by adding "chinese chorizo" which is really just lap cheong (chinese sausage). I'm not sure if it's house made, or if they just went down to H-Mart and got some Chinese Sausage. Chinese Sausage definitely has its place, and I applaud Maple Ave for trying to be inventive, but they completely missed the mark here. The sausage adds no flavor to the broth, and when you eat it, it's a little on the bland side. Maple ave., why don't you man up and use real chorizo, which has much more fat, which would make a richer and more delicious broth. Okay now that it's out of my system. Maple Ave. gives you a few crostinis to dip in the broth, which just didn't really work. Crostinis are great as a vessel for solid foods (like bruschetta, and tapenade), but are not good for sopping up liquids. At the very least though, the mussels were of good texture, albeit slightly small in size. The portion, all things considered, was pretty decent considering it was $7. Shrimp and Grits (****) I freaking love shrimp and grits, and it's not fair for me to review this place considering the shrimp and grits I used to eat at New Orleans (especially Luke, if you ever get to visit NOLA). Now having said that I was a little underwhelmed by the grits, but that's not to say that they weren't good. They were in fact good. The consistency of the grits were rougher than what I normally like, and the shrimp (though seasoned, just wasn't seasoned....heavily like how I'm used to). The Okra and Sausage topping is phenomenal though, and quite possibly the saving grace of the dish. I won't order this again, but I'd recommend you at least try it as my taste buds are more acclimated toward a saltier and spicier palate. Eggs Benedict (*****) Wow. Just wow. Eat this. It's so good. I hate hollandaise by the way, but the sauce they make is just right. The watercress is a nice touch, but let's not beat around the bush the crab is where the party's at. A little pricy; you get two for $12 (which is great to split between you and a friend, assuming you're getting other small plates too). It's delicious though. Well done, Maple Ave. Chocolate Dumplings (****** - That's right. SIX stars). These chocolate dumplings are way way good. Chocolate ganache put into a dumpling wrapper, then deep fried and served with vanilla bean ice cream. It's the hot + cold combination that's so good, but it's a nice change of pace, since most people are used to the brownie+ice cream combination. These are awesome. Order them and get ready to get chocolate all over your face in the best way possible. Service was decent too, but not the best. I'll give it four stars (****).
(4)
Scott M.

Phenomenal dinner at Maple Ave last night. Had the lemongrass chicken small plate (which was not tiny), rabbit curry (that nights special), followed by sharing lemon pie and chocolate dumplings with some French press. They were all fantastic. I don't remember the last time I ate out and tasted so many different distinct flavors. Also had some red sangria that was the best I've ever tasted. Check was around $160 for three people with one drink each and dessert. WELL WORTH IT. The place looks like a run down 1940s donut shop from the outside, but fear not. It is tiny, but you are not packed in like sardines. You won't be bumping chairs with the people behind you like some NoVa lunch spots I know (and i am 6'-7"; these are things i notice). Everyone was very friendly, and we had an excellent time. The chairs were a bit on the wobbly side, and the ambient music did leave some to be desired. That is as close to bad news as I can get. Just make sure you have a reservation. None were shown as available on their website, so we called as suggested. They were very helpful and able to accommodate us. Food was 5/5 without hesitation. Great place!!
(4)
Catherine L.

I vaguely remember this place as a run-down Mexican place that served cheap tacos in high school. Even though I loved that sketchy little taco shop, I was impressed by how well Maple Ave cleaned up. First things first, make a reservation. The restaurant is tiny. When I checked their website around noon on a Thursday, all but one spot at 8:15 had been filled. Every group that came in without a reservation had to be turned away. My boyfriend and I shared: Apple salad - I complained when he wanted to order it. With its walnuts, apples, onions and blue cheese it sounded like a salad I could order at Panera. Of course, he proved me wrong. The ingredients were fresher and tastier. Steamed mussels w/ crostinis - We came in wanting to order the scallops, but the group next to us had ordered the last of them. Great decision, because we got a whole boatload of mussels instead of two scallops. There were little bits of Chinese sausage in each mussel, and they were swimming in a creamy saffron coconut sauce. The sauce wasn't too thai-y, which I was scared of. Extra crostinis - They were that great. Perfect for dipping in leftover mussel soup. Baked mac - Sooooooo gooood. My parents laughed when I told them I spent $60 on a meal that included mac and cheese. Pfft Asian parents. Watermelon gazpacho - Delicious. Complex flavors, but still light and refreshing. Bread pudding - Light and chocolatey French press coffee, Maple Ave. blend - A good dark roast, tasted potatoey (not in a bad way) Overall a great restaurant. A wonderful addition to downtown Vienna, and a place I can get my organic small plates fix without venturing to DC. FYI to anyone complaining about parking- you can park your car almost anywhere in Vienna and not get towed. I'll usually park at the Starbucks or behind Church Street Pizza.
(4)
Andy H.

Maple Ave Rocks. The chef shows great creativity and even better execution with his menu, and always has great beers and wines on the list. We had a party of 6 people, and service was quick and smooth, and all of the food was fantastic. The steamed mussels and the 1.2.3. Shrimp were great small plates. And Dr Pepper Ribs were so very tender and flavorful. Parking can get a bit tight, but once inside so worth it.
(5)
Woody G.

MAR is a very small restaurant, yet the quality of the food and the service is big-time! The food will literally surprise you because of how excellent it is. Strong attention to detail very obviously has been given to the food. When you taste the food, you will immediately notice the exceptional cooking skills that went into the preparation and presentation. If you live anywhere in the Washington, DC metro area, you must try MAR for some of the best cooking you will encounter in the entire national capital region. The only drawback of MAR is that this restaurant occupies a very small physical space with limited seating. Cooking that is this excellent certainly deserves a much bigger venue.
(5)
G-Girl P.

Had the scallops which was wonderful! Why didn't anyone else think of having ice cream for entree. It was very unexpected mix that turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The staff was excellent.
(4)
Jenny G.

I've been here twice, got the 6-course brunch tasting menu and bottomless cocktails both times, and was very happy with the food both times. Subtle and unique flavors, which can be hard to find in Northern Virginia. The bottomless cocktails are nothing to write home about and, on my second visit (when we were celebrating a birthday), the waiter seemed exasperated that our table ordered three rounds. I understand -- he wants the table free and does not get any more money for bringing more drinks -- but offering bottomless drinks, a restaurant should expect that a diner will order enough to make the $15 charge worthwhile. Slightly grumpy service aside, I've had wonderful experiences at Maple Ave and it is becoming a go-to special occasion place for me.
(4)
Nicole L.

I feel a little confused on writing this as I have heard good things and what we ate really wasn't that bad. Let me start off by saying that we were going to eat somewhere else, but traffic was so bad down Maple Ave, we said, well, let's try this place. In my head, I thought it was more of a "diner" homestyle food type place. It's not. The restaurant is fairly plain inside (and very small) and the music of the entire track of Guns and Roses was playing. hmmm. We looked at the menu and I really just wanted to leave. Mostly because I wasn't in the mood for 'fancy" food and the prices were really on the high side. So, we both had the panko chicken sandwich for lunch. They were $16 each. Ouch. Well, I thought, damn, this oughta be amazing then!!! It was just OK. Maybe the price tag made my expectations too high, IDK, but, honestly, Chick-fil-a would have hit the spot for half the price. The service was just fine, the place was clean and people looked like they were enjoying themselves. Just honestly, I have had way better chicken sandwiches in way prettier restaurants. It just didn't seem the prices met the decor met the food. Maybe it was our choice of food? IDK, but I heard their breakfasts are pretty good. Maybe we will try again with our next influx of cash that warrants a $40+ weekday meal and I can rewrite this.
(2)
marc a.

I'm a little torn on Maple Ave Restaurant. On the one hand, the food is very fresh and very, very tasty. On that count, I have to recommend it highly. On the other hand, the atmosphere and the pretentiousness feels like it would be a far better fit in Rosslyn or Dupont Circle than in Vienna. Don't get me wrong--I am a fan and I did enjoy my meal. But somehow this place needed to be in an area where they had a view of a busy foot traffic scene instead of a view of a car wash. Oh, and the pretentiousness? That's what takes it down a star for me. I ordered sweet potato hash, which by default comes with scrambled eggs. I get that the eggs were flavored in such a way as to be a perfect compliment and all, but I love poached eggs and any kitchen that claims to make everything from scratch has to have a few eggs, a pan of water and a little vinegar. But alas, I wasn't counseled that the scrambled eggs were specially paired with the hash or anything to convince me that my request for poached eggs would decrease my dining pleasure. Rather, I was simply told the chef does not accommodate requests such as this because they serve it with scrambled eggs. That was seriously a "WTF?" moment. Like I said, I could see that sort of 'tude in Dupont or Manhattan, but in Vienna? Definitely not what I expected. We ordered the afforementioned hash (really tasty), the shrimp and grits (very tasty as well, with good course grits cooked perfectly), and mussels cooked in a thai-inspired coconut-lemongrass-curry broth served with bruschetta. For dessert, the funnel cake with ice cream. All was quite good, as was their coffee (Illy?). So nothing to complain about in terms of the food at all. Just that attitude that seemed out of place for a beltway town.
(4)
Amanda P.

Truly a tasty delight! They have a small but good selection of local beers which is a great start. We began with the creme fraiche wings and they were absolutely dee-lish! The sauce had a bit of spice and was a great combination of sweet and savory. For my entree, I got the scallops with basil ice cream and risotto. I've never had BASIL ice cream and I was game. The ice cream melted pretty quickly but it flavored the risotto, adding a slightly sweet taste to the meal. Win. I know my way around a scallop having cooked and consumed plenty in my day and these were cooked to perfection. Like butter. My adventurous husband got the beef cheek sandwich. This was his first time having beef cheek (I declined a taste) and after he got over the game-y taste he liked it. His fries were crispy and scrumptious (I accepted a taste this time). I was seriously so impressed by the creativity of the chef I mentioned how good it was every time our super nice waiter cleared a dish. The restaurant is small as others have stated so I will try to make a reservation on round 2 (although we walked in and were able to snag a table). I can definitely see this being a go-to place to bring visitors while I sit back and watch them be amazed at the deliciousness.
(5)
Anthony H.

Mommy's scrambled eggs. Yes that is what I thought of after dining at Maple Ave Restaurant. This is a small crisp restaurant in a busy part of Vienna. The parking lot is pure rubbish, it is just super small. The building has equal dining space in front and behind the kitchen. The back is reserved for private parties. The front dining area has a half dozen tables and is excellently decorated. To be honest, I just briefly browsed one or two Yelp reviews before driving here to eat alone in what I thought would be a better than decent diner. Expecting a Silver Diner +, I was happily surprised at MAR. I ordered the chicken and waffles for dinner. The bread was served with some tasty pumpkin and spice butter. Good start. My dinner arrived and looked great. Really great! The chicken had a wonderfully crunchy coating, the waffles were chewy, and the maple syrup was naturally potent. The chicken meat itself could have more flavor. Overall it was very purposefully made food. Yes, OK about Mommy's scrambled eggs. For me there is something magical about my Mommy's scrambled eggs. I have watched her make eggs for me for several years. She uses a little butter and puts the eggs in, cooks for bit, and done. Good eggs. Still no matter how I try, my eggs just don't taste the same. Still good though. So while my Mommy's scrambled eggs are not super duper and awesome, they have a special something to them. MAR's food has a special something that makes it special if not ultimately awesome tasting. The care put into the fried chicken and waffles is noticeable on a conscious and subtle level. My meal was memorable. Now that I have visited once I will return with friends to eat as many different things off the menu as we can.
(4)
R J A.

Took some time off from Yelping, and then BOOM, brussels sprout soup, baked mac and cheese, Dr. Pepper short ribs, and chocolate dumplings. After weeks of sampling uninspiring food, Maple Ave was a great experience. The brussels sprout soup was smooth and savory, the baked mac and cheese was rich, and the short ribs were 23 flavors of awesome. And while I probably could have done without dessert, the chocolate dumplings were worth it, and the wifer and I can't wait to go back. I should note that while some people feel that the limited size of the restaurant (only 9 tables) makes the place "cute," I did not. I just don't enjoy being stared at by people waiting for their tables in the small entryway at the "front" (otherwise known as the area no less than 5 feet away from every table) of the restaurant. However, the food is fantastic, the selection of booze is great, and the service is awesome. It might be a little pricey, but the food is worth it. Make reservation for 8:00 and you won't have a ton of problems with people staring at you from the "entryway."
(4)
Ross M.

We were just looking for a place to grab a nice sandwich, but this place delivered. Odd location, small dining room, probably need to make a reservation. Had the Panko Chicken and BBQ sandwich. The Panko was better. The french fries were really good, nice and herby. I thought it was a tad expensive. The portions aren't massive, but what you're paying for are the quality ingredients, local food, and someone in the kitchen who does a really good job as a chef. I'd go back.
(4)
John K.

Maple Ave comes off, at first glance, as a hip new restaurant that opened a short while ago, but suddenly can't seem to afford a touch-up of paint. The tiny interior was a bit chilly, and the near-instant and near-constant attention of the waiter didn't add to the vibe. While I can't say "bad," I won't say "great" either. First impressions are everything, however, the food for our brunch visit turned this story around: Beets, goat cheese, and crusted pecans-- who new the blandest vegetable on the planet could be made tasty? This was the first arrival, and a real winner that whet our appetites. Next up was the chicken meatballs-- giant patties cut in half, the food was hot and delicious. The spiciness of the salad (again unexpected, and again perfect) was the ideal compliment to the savory chicken, and the small compliment of cherry tomatoes was exactly right. The fingerling potatoes were brilliantly crispy, and the brine-like sauce at the bottom of the plate was just the right meaty saltiness. Last up was a grits concoction that was brilliant-- everything in the quasi-jambalaya was perfectly cooked and tasted fresh. The shrimp arrived firm and pink, the grits (and I despise grits) were pleasantly creamy. One unresolved impression: the blueberry sausage. It didn't taste bad, it was in fact beautifully cooked, but the unusual combinations of flavors did not appeal to me. My dining parter loved it, though, so I think it's more of a personal taste like a bitter beer or a peaty scotch, so you should try it and see for yourself. For dessert: a peanut-butter brownie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This was the one menu item that was not a hit. Just good, not great, a strange papery consistency with little taste of any chocolate or peanut butter flavors. The ice cream was a decent compliment to the scorching-hot brownie (was this warmed in the microwave? It came out VERY quickly and was significantly hotter in the center than the outside), and in fact was the best part of the dessert. Which is unfortunate. A final bone to pick: we were told one wine was not available, which certainly happens to the best restaurants, but overheard at the other tables that two other items were also not available. So a small restaurant with a small menu is missing three items... is there trouble afoot? I would argue that the superb hits mean this restaurant needs just a little work and refinement to come out on top, so I plan to revisit in a couple of months to see if we just hit them at the wrong moment. I recommend you try it for yourself!
(4)
Support Local B.

Parking is a disaster here. The food is really tasty, but the tables are way too close together and it tends to get warm in the tiny dinning area. This isn't a place to bring children and for the sake of other guest please do not, there simply isn't room. My favorite dish here is the beet salad; its totally fresh and delicious!
(2)
Margaret C.

Wonderful, creative menu masterfully executed. Funky, minimalist setting in a repurposed 50s convenience store or Dairy Queen. We happened upon it quite by accident, and I agree with another reviewer that it serves some of the best meals you'll have in NoVa.
(5)
Hyunoo P.

Hm, I'm a sucker for Vienna. She's like that not-quite-unattractive girl that lives down the street. You like hanging out with her because she lives nearby and you get each other's jokes. You don't want to call her your 'best' friend because, well, you're hoping theres something better out there for you. Oh sure, you kissed once under the Old Oak Tree, but who hasn't? Who hasn't been young. Still, when she looks into your eyes with that cold, blue innocence.. you have to look away. Blink. What does this have to do with Maple Ave? Probably nothing. But try to stay with me. Maple Ave has put a lot on its plate: quirky location with a sometimes-crowded-sometimes-cozy dining room, a menu that ranges from Kobe burger to chicken sandwich, and a price-point that gives the young man some options to flatter his date or sneak away unscathed. Some people here think the art is kind of.. meh. I'm biased since I know most of the artists (All the pieces are from The Soundry, you should check it out!). It isn't their best work in there but it's better than some mass-print from World Market. At least the art is original. I don't remember having bad service, but considering the size of the place I imagined my beer could have arrived 5 minutes earlier. Speaking of, I didn't look at the wine list and just ordered Allagash White. $5. Our entrees were simply good. My 6 oz Kobe Burger looked quaint and unassuming with its simple skirt of lettuce, red tomato belt, and matched, toasted buns- top and bottom. An exotic Patty, conservatively dressed. I enjoyed that the burger came out medium, and that it juiced.. but did not gush. I gushed, however, on the that fact that it was full of flavor without my hands being full of napkins. Delightful and only $11. The fries deserve their own little quip. Extremely crispy and flaky exterior with a consistently tender center. An excellent fry, however, a bit oily once you start nomming full speed. My friend had the chicken sandwich. Which was very kind of her, considering I was picking up the check ($10 or 11). She was quite satisfied. I can't remember if she said it was the best Parm chicken sandwich she ever had, but she very well may have. Now, the one disappointing part of the meal was my foie gras mousse appetizer. First of all, I didn't hear the waitress clearly and didn't realize it was a mousse until it's rotund body was in my face. Le sigh. I thought the smile I showed her said I was expecting seared. The pickled pears that accompanied it were refreshing at least. I hope the analogy sunk in!
(4)
Jennie W.

One of our all-time favorite places. The restaurant is tiny, so make a reservation, but the experience of being in the tiny dining room eating the food that's bursting with contradictory flavors is worth the while. I highly recommend the shrimp and grits as a starter and the funnel cake for dessert! The menu changes often, but there are always small plates, main plates, and sweet plates. Keep going until you taste everything!
(5)
Sunny C.

Creative and delicious food with a delicate taste. Entree size was small, and we were still hungry after having our entrees and a dessert. The seared scallops with basil ice cream was delicious as was the Moroccan chicken. The chocolate dumplings were my favorite. If I return, it will be for the chocolate dumplings. A bit pricey for a meal that didn't make me full. The sangria which was their special for their day was orange based. It was okay as the sangria at Jaleo still holds the top spot. Service was excellent.
(4)
Christine R.

I scurried around last minute to find a place for a birthday dinner celebration. Once I found Maple Ave. on Yelp I knew I wanted to go here but didn't know if I could squeeze in a party of 8 so last minute. The place is TINY. Like the kitchen is the dining area, is the hostess stand is the waiting area... BUT it worked, and the hostess was very accommodating so last minute. Local, different and fantastic food. Each person in our party ordered something different so everyone managed to try a little bit of everything on the menu. Absolutely fantastic. Rarely do you find a place where you can pretty much order anything on the menu and you're sure to be happy. I can't wait to return!!!
(4)
Christine H.

Teeny tiny, unassuming place... Dr. Pepper short rib was AMAZING, tender and not over-sauced...service was just okay... Dessert was over rated...funnel cake was a bit dry, chocolate dumplings were just that...semi sweet/dark chocolate chips in a wonton wrapper and fried... But the Short rib is something to brag about and it came with a decent side of grits...
(4)
Desiree D.

We went for the 6-course brunch tasting menu on a rainy April Saturday. It was not busy until later, but we had early reservations at 11:15. Service is great since this place is tiny, it can't afford not to be. Price was decent for a long, enjoyable brunch. The two of us got bottomless cocktails and the fresh press coffee, both were great. My favorite dish of the entire meal was the fried cauliflower - so good! We would definitely go back.
(4)
Joanna T.

It is a very tiny restaurant (~9 tables), but they use incredibly fresh ingredients to create amazing dishes. I would recommend making a reservation in advance or arriving at non-peak hours. My husband got the pulled BBQ pork sandwich with a side of fries and I tried their special of the day, vermicelli with roasted duck, scallions and a light soy sauce. Everything tasted delicious and we wrapped up our meal with their chocolate dumplings and (my favorite) warm baguette bread budding with a side of vanilla ice cream. FYI : The chocolate dumplings were filled with dark chocolate - almost a little too bitter for us. That aside, highly recommend trying out this place! P.S. Service was also really great - not sure what the other folks were talking about :P
(4)
Megan T.

I was very excited to see they had opened a restaurant in this little spot since its so close to my house! My boyfriend and I went there for dinner one night and after a brief wait we were seated and had some great beer and awesome homemade dumplings. He got the steak and I got the salmon, both were delicious! The best part though was the desert! We got the funnel cake with ice cream and I was in my own personal heaven! The place is a tad bit tight, but service is friendly and it has a cozy atmosphere. I hope this place stays around!!
(4)
Mark D.

Food was great. Parking sucks. Service was great. Food was delicious. Diners next to us we're loud and obnoxious disturbing everyone in the micro-sized room. Detracted from atmosphere and dinner. Next time I'll loud diners to keep it down. Third or fourth time going there and will definitely go back.
(5)
Chris O.

Went here for my Special Lady's birthday and it didn't disappoint. We had the wings and the roasted bone marrow to start. The wings have an amazing sauce. Probably the best "fancy" wings I've ever had. I would have hoped they were a little bigger in size and they would be absolutely elite if they were all drums. The service was very good, Jeremy, was knowledgeable and attentive without being weird. For the main course I had the braised beef cheek and she had the whole bronzini with fried rice. For dessert it was the dumplings and bread pudding. The food here is VERY rich but very well thought out and flavorful. We'll be back. Try the bone marrow, especially if you've never really had it. It's absolutely seriously sinful.
(4)
P K.

Great place. We actually sat in the back area and it was fantastic. Service was great and the apps and entrees were excellent. Highly recommend this place.
(4)
Trina T.

Two of us shared the fried okra, mac and cheese, scallops over coconut risotto, and a chicken dish. The okra and the mac and cheese were amazing! The mac and cheese was actually light for a three-cheese dish. I was afraid the dipping sauce for the okra, which was diluted fish sauce, would be overpowering but it wasn't. Chicken was okay. The scallops dish was disappointing. The scallops were over-salted. I couldn't eat them. The basil ice cream that is supposed to be the sauce for the dish is an interesting idea but when executed, didn't do well with the dish. I like my risotto to be warm, but using the ice cream as a sauce made it cold and unappetizing. Another issue was the server. When she came to pick up the dishes at the end of the meal, we had either emptied all plates or asked for a bag for the leftovers (okra and mac and cheese, which we didn't finish to make room for the entrees). My risotto dish was empty except for the huge scallops. She didn't bother to ask about the scallops that were left. Was there something wrong with them? Did I not like them? Nothing. So I pointed out to her that the scallops were super salty. And her only response was, "Ok". And she proceeded to take the plates away. She just walked away and we honestly thought I offended her. There was no communication about what would be done about the inedible scallops. She did come back 10 minutes later to ask if I wanted to new scallops to be lightly salted or not at all. Ohhh...okay. Could she not have communicated that they would be making them to replace the salty ones?? I felt that the server was a lot nicer to the other couples that were on either side of us but seem to gloss over us. The other issue is the location of the restaurant. Parking spaces are tight and only one lane of traffic can go in or out so you end up waiting for people to take 5 minutes to maneuver out of their spaces. I thought that it was also very loud inside. We were in the front room. There are only about 10 small tables but even that's too many for the small room they had. As a result, there are a lot of people in such a small space and you can barely hold a conversation over all the other conversations in the room.
(2)
S B.

There is fine dining in Vienna, but it comes in a tiny box. Best to have reservations for weekends, most week day evenings there is seating in this very small place. Our dinner was interesting, but I had a difficult time enjoying the meal in such a tiny space. For my money, an experience like this should be enjoyed undistracted. I was a little dismayed with exterior appearance and the severe parking issue ( we walked because we often observe the disarray from the road). I'd like to give this place another try on an evening that isn't fighting for space.
(2)
Nicholas P.

If you drove by this restaurant, you would never guess that inside is some of the best food you'll eat in NOVA. In fact, I almost drove right by it because it's so small and unassuming. But I had one of my favorite meals in a long time here the other night. My friends and I all got the 3 course prix fixe dinner, which was an amazing value at $35 for what we got. We tried the shrimp and grits, the burrata, and the Thai okra. I loved all of them - everything was full of flavor and well prepared. The okra was baked in a nice Thai chili sauce that was tasty without being overpowering and taking away the natural flavor of the okra. The burrata was creamy and melted in my mouth and all the accompanying items on the plate added depth to the dish. And the shrimp and grits were probably the best I've ever eaten. For the large plate, I definitely recommend the scallops. They were seared and cooked just right, and came over a coconut risotto with basil ice cream that melted into the risotto and basically brought a foodgasm on me. One friend highly recommended the bronzini if you like fish. I tried the chocolate dumplings based off the other Yelp comments and wasn't blown away, but they were tasty and not too rich from the chocolate. The bread pudding was a little too rich for me, and the special of the night was a panna cotta that came out looking like it was a piece of art! Thankfully, it tasted as good, if not better, than it looked. I'm still dreaming of that meal days later! This is a great place for a nice night out or a special occasion dinner. I hope to come sometime and try the brunch.
(5)
Anne C.

3.5 stars. I came here for dinner with a friend and after a fairly mediocre lunch experience a year before, dinner was surprisingly delicious. Service was top notch, but then again, the restaurant is very tiny. I ordered the scallops and they were perfectly cooked and flavorful. I would say this is a nice spot for the area it's in, and if I were in the area again looking for above average food, I would come back here. There isn't ambiance or any of that, but it is cute and a nice spot for a casual dinner.
(4)
Marc M.

All the best reviews listed here are correct. The food is tops in all respects. So why not 3 stars? A little pet peeve. If you don't have great coffee for great dessets then don't offer any. A french press offering is on the menu. Unfortunately, there are no good metal french presses and their mesh doesn't catch the grinds. Also if your coffee isn't fround to french press specifications (and I suspect that pre-ground coffee is used) the nthe result just sucks. Don't order coffee here but definitely order EVERYTHING ELSE,
(4)
Nicole M.

After reading about Maple Ave in Washingtonian magazine, I was super excited to try it and made a brunch reservation two weeks in advance for myself and three of my friends. Upon arrival, I was surprised because the restaurant is in a weird location and is super tiny- very easy to miss. I was even more shocked when we walked in and discovered that the entire establishment is the size of a large walk-in closet. Seriously. There is no waiting area and I am not even sure there was a bathroom the place is so tiny! After being seated, we were given water immediately, but waited for about 20 minutes before our server finally came over to take our drink order. We ordered mimosas for $9 each and found them to be bland and lacking in alcohol. Strike 1. After waiting for another 20 minutes after the server dropped our drinks, he came over to take our order. The four of us each ordered something different. One of my companions asked for no peppers on her egg sandwich because she has an allergy and the server said that was not possible as substitutions are not allowed. We handled it swiftly and explained that she would collapse onto the floor if he failed to leave the peppers off. Strike 2. The food finally came and the presentation was beautiful! Magazine photo worthy! But it was average. All of us agreed that our food was just not very good. I had the pumpkin pancakes with bacon and hashbrowns and I hate to be so harsh, but I could have gotten the same thing at IHOP for cheaper and it would have tasted better. Strike 3, Maple Ave is out. Kudos for the fresh maple syrup though. We got our check and went to pay, waiting another 30 minutes for the server to realize we had put our credit cards into the check holder. For a 400 square foot place, he sure did find places to disappear to! After paying, we booked it out of there but were delayed when we realized that it was nearly impossible to back out of the miniature parking lot. Is it possible to get four strikes? Overall, all three of my friends and I were very disappointed with the entire experience at Maple Ave. Had the food been amazing, I could have excused the poor service and size, but alas...that is not the case.
(2)
Donald P.

It's been almost a year since my last visit...and I still feel about the same. 3.5 stars...but I normally round up for small businesses. Better than a-okay, but not a fan yet. Came here for the Bottomless Brunch. That ONLY refers to the bottomless mimosas for $15. The brunch menu features small plates. Two small plates are recommended and roughly equates to one main plate. The favorite seemed to be the Beer Battered Shrimp ($16), but with only 4 shrimp on a small bed of fries, that was some expensive shrimp. The Chicken Noodle Soup ($12) looked like chicken noodle soup but the soup base tasted unmistakeably like Pho. The girls really liked it. The Suki Yaki Shrimp ($8) was alright. The coconut makes this dish taste more Malaysian than something evocative of Japanese cuisine. The Truffled Eggs ($7) was delicious and my first time deciphering the taste of truffle oil. Very unique. Considering how small this place was, I was delightfully surprised they had a high chair! Bottomline - Don't come here if you're hungry, unless you don't mind leaving with an empty wallet. Come here to relax and enjoy the food.
(4)
C T.

Tiny, unassuming, and delicious. Don't judge this place by its cover.
(5)
Heather H.

Amazing! I'm not going to reiterate what everyone else has said but the food is delish! I got the seared scallops based on the reviews from here and was not disappointed. They were cooked perfectly and the basil ice cream slowly melted into the risotto to make this wonderful creaminess. I didn't want it to end! I also had the creme fraiche wings which were awesome, crispy but tender inside. I wasn't crazy about the chocolate dumpling. It was too much dumpling and not enough chocolate. I can't wait to go back! Be careful with parking, the parking lot is very awkward and there aren't very many spaces. It's very tight and difficult to get in and out. I actually witnessed a woman back into the side of the building and damage her tail light, so be careful!
(5)
Andy T.

One of my favorite places to eat overall and wish I could go there more often. Does have limited seating so RSVP'ing in advance is highly recommended (limited seating). Service is great and have never been disappointed in the food at all. Recommended small plates are steamed mussels, shrimp & grits, and creme fraiche wings. Main plate recommendations are Moroccan chicken and seared scallops. The fries here are perhaps my favorite fries ever (so crispy!). I do miss back in the day when they have the pork belly rice bowl (I can eat that all day!). Looking forward to their new project (Water & Wall) set for Arlington and their menu. Great to see a small business grow through the few years to make a name for themselves and continue to attract new fans consistently. Also looking forward to a bigger space and parking as well (as their are limitations with Maple Ave). Worth the parking and wait though:)
(5)
Jennifer D.

Tiny, funky space. Tasty, creative food.
(4)
Lauren B.

This tiny little restaurant is nothing special inside and looks out on the never ending traffic of Maple Avenue. We had reservations for 6pm on Friday night and were treated to one of the best meals that we can remember having in a restaurant. Really, who cares about the decor when the staff are all nice, and the menu is so thoughtfully prepared. We shared everything: the PEI mussels with delicious buttery crostinis and a seafood stew to start, followed by the curry spiced chicken and seared scallops. The scallops were seared on a bed of a coconut risotto and garnished with some basil ice cream. I know, it sounds like a weird mix of seafood and dessert but it was absolutely delicious and not at all over sweet. My husband and I absolutely loved the mussels, stew and scallops- like really loved. I may or may not have gotten a little over zealous retrieving a piece of Chinese sausage from a mussel shell and accidentally flung said shell under the chair of a neighboring table a la the escargot scene in Pretty Woman. May or may not have. The chicken was good too, but just couldn't match the shine of everything else on the table. Our meal of two small plates, two large plates, a mixed drink and two beers was right around $100. We had birthday cake waiting at home so did not order dessert. We could not stop repeating how delicious our meal was during the drive home and can already not wait to return when the seasonal menu changes.
(5)
Aylin S.

This place is a hidden gem in Vienna! Amazing food, hand down best Mac n cheese I've ever tried! Everyone at my table was raving about the mussels too (I couldn't try them though since I can't eat pork) but this place seems to have lots of good food options! Only down side is that it's tiny! I came here with a group of six once and we practically took up the whole restaurant. All in all great place though!
(4)
Nick N.

Are you ready to start appreciating what you eat instead of stuffing your gizzard with the same chain restaurant garbage? I like: Intimate atmosphere, excellent service, non-descript frontage, affordable choices, a memorable experience. I'm talking food, not the Little Bankok Asian Massage Parlour. Menu is a hodgepodge variety of familiars with a few unusuals. Not as unusual as Osso Buco or Vichyssoise (educate yourself Burger King boy). You can eat full meal style or tapas. Great wine to pair and warm atmosphere. What we ordered: Baked mac and cheese: (This is grown up kind made with gruyere not Velveeta ...yes it can be made that way. Sigh.) Awesome Mussels (steamers): great broth, not over cooked. Perfect. Okra: I hate Okra. I ate all of it. Whole bronzini. This would be a whole Sea Bass -bone in. ...yes like a chicken wing. Again educate yourself. Perfectly cooked. Best I've had. Pan seared scallops. Fresh (not pre frozen), tender, melt in your mouth. Risotto compliment. Moroccan chicken. I've never been to Morocco but now I want to go. Desserts were refined and delicate...not like the triple chocolate fudge brownie explosion you are probably used to at Crapplebees. My nit picks: Don't drive the "Wagon queen family truckster" it wont fit in the parking lot. No vestibule, don't sit near the door on a chilly evening. Low light. Make sure your cell phone has the flashlight feature so you can read the menu. There are 9 tables . Get a reservation early in the week. Looking at the menu, there are funky kind of no rules (not like Outback, numb nut) monthly sittings where chef Tim cooks "whatever he feels like". Very cool. Last recommendation, sit next to the kitchen door. Fun to watch the crew at work and every time the door opens you get to sample the entire menu with your nose. Bottom line: When your Jerry Springer Show date asks if the "Beef Cheeks" menu selection comes from the cows ass...give up your table and take her to Chilis.
(5)
Jason D.

Great food, laid back staff and service is excellent. Saturday brunch for two is terrific.
(5)
art f.

Funky location - what was this is a prior life? A dry cleaners? The parking "lot" can be an adventure. We were fortunate that it was 1/2 empty when we left. The menu is gets interesting. We started with small plates of friend green tomatoes and fried cauliflower. Both were good - the tomatoes tasted a little more fried than green tomatoey ; the cauliflower was ample and not overly fried or breaded. Then moved on to chicken meatballs and macaroni and cheese. The chicken was unusual - good chunks and twists of chicken meat rather than ground poultry. The star was the mac and cheese - about as good as it gets. A nice addition to Vienna - will return to check out the menu as it changes.
(4)
Alan M.

3.5 star review. We ordered the Duck small plate, which was good, taste was okay, a little fatty. I liked the lettuce and cucumber combination, could have used more cucumber, IMHO. We also ordered the Shrimp small plate, which was delicious, small portion three shrimp, and some roast pork and mozarella or some white cheese as a sauce base. Large plates we had the sea bass which was pretty good, and the soy sauce mix it came with was pretty traditional Asian style. That was a good size fish. We also had the scallops with risotto, unfortunately one of the scallops was not properly cleaned and had sand which added an unnecessary chewing experience. The interesting soda selection was good, of ginger, and orange. The price is higher than expected for the portion sizes. The restaurant service is full wait staff, it's a tiny restaurant with about eight tables, and everybody who gets up or walks to the bathroom seems to violate your personal space. The parking is abysmal, with a small cramped lot in the back that is full. The only other option is in the back of the shopping center across the street. Not handicapped accessible at all. The adjacent parking lots will not let you park in their areas. Service was fine, reservations non-issue, and the overall experience was good. Someday when Maple Ave grows up and has a dine-in restaurant feel at a more convenient location with a normal size dining room it could be a high-end competitor. Today, 3.5 stars, great for people who want to try something new and different. The website is well put together, and menu selection is updated online as in the restaurant. It would be tough to return soon, but probably something to try as they add new menu items, and when nostalgia hits, but definitely not a place that gives the "Wow' factor. Good nonetheless.
(3)
David S.

A gem of a place, hidden in plain view. Make a reservation! The food is delicious, imaginative, and reasonably priced given the level of quality. The menu is limited, but changes regularly depending on what is good seasonally.
(5)
Julia A.

Hands down the best brunch ever! I had the 6 course meal for two people ($38 total, definitely a bargain). Here's a summary of my experience by course: 1. Eggs. Truffled eggs. Fluffy, tasty, and one of a kind served with some bacon. 2. Crepe. There was a lot of mushrooms, and although I'm not a huge fan of mushrooms, they made it work, so props to the chef. 3. Salad. A wonderful, thoughtful combination of apples, walnuts, blue cheese, and onions - all balanced and fresh. 4. Meat/sandwich assortment. This was my favorite part of the meal, which consisted of some garlic bread arranged on one side, with this special imported ham and gruyere cheese on the other side. I loved that they didn't just make a normal sandwich, but presented the food in such a way that I could explore the combinations. 5. Mac n cheese. The bread crumbs on the top is the equivalent to the "icing on a cake" except better. 6. Dessert. Almost tied with my fourth course, this consisted of apple compote with powdered sugar and beignets. The perfect way to end a perfect meal. Aside from the fantastic food, I was blown away by the service. I don't think I've had the same level of kind, knowledgable waitresses at even some of the most expensive restaurants I've been to. Yes, the restaurant itself is small to begin with, but it was busy and the waitress still had time to answer our questions between each course. Her timing was also impeccable between switching dishes. The transition was flawless thanks to her. Take away message: If you're going to go here, go for their 6 course menu. Not only is it a fabulous deal, but it is satisfying and draws on all the best of the restaurant.
(5)
Hue K.

Two and half star. I was in Vienna on saturday late morning (11ish) and saw Maple avenue restaurant. It's very small so I wasn't sure how it's like inside. I saw a couple of customers inside. MA has full menu for dinner/lunch and dessert AND brunch but it feels like VERY casual cozy cute snack-eatery that I see a lot in asia or europe. I didn't find anything out of ordinary from brunch menu so I just ordered beignets (only $2.50!) and sweet potato gnocchi. My friend got spanish dumpling. 1. Beignets were so airy and light (almost hollow). I was thinking if they vaccumed inside-dough of beignets.. If you want something fried (like fried dough-skin?), try this but this seems .. too light and airy for me instead of fluffy-airy.. They could put some more powder sugar since I didn't taste much sugar.. 2. Spanish dumpling was interesting but it didn't wow me.. The dipping sauce was interesting because it had subtle taste of kim-chee so I am guessing it was made with little bit of kim-chee juice. It was more like fried-dumpling served with unique name. 3. Sweet potato gnocchi.. was disappointing because gnocchi was fried and I didn't know it would be fried. Interesting concept but it made gnocchi dried and oily. without any significant flavor from sweet-potato ... The dish overall was too oily for me... 4. I give some credits to MA for their efforts to come up with interesting name for dishes but overall.. I didn't think any of dishes were tasty. I thought it was very clever to have Beignets on the menu for $2.50, since most people might just order it to try (becasue it's only $2.50) regardless how it is. If it's bad, they might not order it again but wouldn't feel too bad since it's only $2.50. 5. Cute little flowers were on the table next to menu:) cute. Good casual eatery to hang out but I'm not sure if you can say your money was well spent..so..I am not sure if I give another try here.
(2)
D. H.

We just tried this place for lunch, after reading the many good reviews. We shared 5 small plates, beet salad, lemongrass chicken, fried green tomatoes, mac & cheese, & shrimp & grits. Yes, we over ordered but couldn't decide as all sounded so good. Everything was absolutely delicious. Our courteous and efficient waiter asked if we'd like each plate brought out as it was made in kitchen and we said sure, not knowing what was going to turn up next. The tomatoes were served over a spicy remoulade type sauce, very tasty; shrimp & grits, omg the sauce was amazing, we poured the rest of it over the tomatoes, yum. Lemongrass chicken was delightful, loved the ginger/lemon zest & who knew brussels sprouts would make such a delightful pairing? Mac & cheese was delicious, we took home for dinner. Everything was plated & beautifully presented. We thought the size portions were quite generous and yes it is a little bit expensive, but look at the quality and uniqueness of the food and menu.
(5)
jenny h.

Completely overpriced for the amount and sophistication of food. One of the entrees we got was insufficiently seasoned and uncreative. The potstickers were $7 and there were only four. I have made potstickers myself of comparable taste and quality and I would say they cost less than 40 cents to make.
(2)
PIstachio B.

I love my beef and the Dr. Pepper Short ribs hit the spot. Tender as could be. Service was great and the sweet potato gnocchi appetizer and chocolate dumplings were hits too. You must get the funnel cake too. If you're not at the fair, were else can you get it!??!
(4)
E C.

Mediocre food at fairly high prices. Had the cassoulet which turned out to be a big pile of undercooked beans with a chunk of pork belly on top. The pork belly was good but nothing else in the dish was worth eating. I didn't enjoy basically paying $18 for a small chunk of fatty pork belly.
(2)
lAy O.

Some of the food is good. Have been here a few times and each time the quality of food got worse. Small portions and small dining area.
(3)
Dreamcast P.

I had the black pork bowl and the duck appetizer. What can I say other than this is a place I would drive an hour out for. Excellent chef and service.
(5)
mom t.

I really liked this place. The staff was very nice and accomodating as they could be given the fact the place was totally full with only 2 servers and the lady in the front working the whole place on a Saturday night. We came about 20 minutes early for our reservation but were seated right away (after requesting that they move our table away from the wall so that we could sit across from each other instead of elbow to elbow). The place was totally full so very cozy dining (the next table was literally a foot away from ours). The decor didn't jump out at me just the horrible lighting(fluorescent and coming from one fixture on our side of the restaurant). It took about 5 minutes for our server to come around to take our drink order but no problem since my husband and I were deep into conversation anyway. He got a craft beer (Brooklyn something) and always a sucker for girly drinks with a twist, I got their peach saketini. It was a little sweet but the real deal breaker was that it was served with ALL the ice from the shaker. Umm, huh? I drank it anyway because it would've taken a while to get another. It took another 5 minutes to get our bread and water. The pumpkin butter was very good, the toasted baguettes were a little thin but warmed. For our appetizers, we ordered the specials: pan seared scallop on polenta with mushrooms and micro greens and the foie gras with an apple compote with a little balsamic glaze . The scallop was perfectly cooked and if you got the whole bite with the polenta and the mushrooms, it was really, really good. The polenta was underseasoned though. The foie gras was from a can and the compote wasn't really a compote. It was chopped apples verly lightly cooked (no sauce, not very tender). The toast it was served with was very dry so we asked more of the warmed sliced baguette served with the pumpkin butter. The foie still tasted good but it would've been sooooo much better if the apples were really cooked and juicy. There was also so little balsamic drizzle on the plate that it didn't make up for the overall dryness of the whole thing. Anyhoo, for our mains, my husband ordered the special of dry aged rib eye with fingerling potatoes. I got the whole fried red snapper with fried rice and ponzu sauce. My husband really liked his steak. It was very well cooked (a true med. rare) but the cut of the steak was suprisingly thin and for $24 it wasn't a great value compared to the rest of the menu. The fingerling potatoes were nice but had these weird knobs on it which were a little off-putting. They should've trimmed these off as well as trimmed the rib eye of little more fat to make the dish a little more elegant. My red snapper looked impressive, fins out "swimming" in a bed of rice. It looked good but I think the steam from the rice actually made the outside of the fish (which should've been exteremely crispy) soggy. The flesh was perfectly cooked underneath but I was more than a little disappointed that the skin wasn't crispy. I live for crispy skin! The fried rice was more risottoey in consistency which I didn't really enjoy and the ponzu was a little overwhelming ( a little too tart without anything else to balance it out). There were quartered potatoes (?) on the plate too that were very undercooked. For our dessert, we ordered the pistachio mochi. It was good, especially the ice cream filling but it was rock hard which really takes away from the best part of mochi: the chewy rice flour exterior. I don't think the taste of the ice cream can fully come through if it's totally frozen, either. If they had nuked it for a few seconds, it would've been perfect. We didn't have the patience once it was served to wait for it to come to temperature. Dinner with 2 beers for my husband, a cocktail and a glass of wine for me plus tip was a little more than $100, so not too bad. Overall, we had a very nice evening and enjoyed the food. They have some things to tweak execution-wise with the food and PLEASE get rid of the fluorescent lighting! The friendly service and the relaxed atmosphere made up for it. I'm really rooting for this neighborhood restaurant to make it. We'll definitely be back again.
(3)
Karen D.

Natives will recall this building as a donut shop and then the long-time original "Little Anita's" New Mexico restaurant location, across the street from Magruder's grocery store. In recent years, it has been a modest Salvadoran restaurant. spot under two nameplates. After seeing new signage go up, I waited a few weeks to give this place a chance to "settle in." Had delicious gazpacho & stacked portabello mushroom salad with balsamic reduction, both from the "small plates" menu. Shared wonderful flourless chocolate cake with others in my party. Wait staff was diligent and attentive...young and earnest. Prices are fair for the area. Parking is a bit tight in the narrow lot behind the building, and when the car wash next door blocks their driveway after hours, it can be tricky to get a big car turned around to exit. Still, Maple Ave is a nice addition to Vienna's excellent restaurant portfolio!
(4)
Ed S.

Had dinner here this weekend and I can't recommend this place enough. The food is delicious and imaginative and well prepared. One of the more interesting meals you'll find in Vienna and even in the DC area. We shared three "small plates" and a main and they were all equally delicious -- how often do you go to a restaurant and every single thing you order is a hit? Not often, but that was the case at Maple Ave Restaurant.
(5)
Ashleigh C.

We had a slight problem with reservations but they resolved it and our meal was wonderful. They were more than happy to answer my gluten questions and the food was just amazing. A must try !
(5)
Kay J.

We were so lucky to get in on a weekend without a reservation for brunch! Won't make that mistake again. French press coffee was very good, although I do wish they had espresso drinks. At first I was a little disappointed at the lack of brunch options, but what I ordered (egg and bacon on brioche) was amazing! I liked the intimate atmosphere. Parking is somewhat tight.
(4)
Nicole V.

It was good and a fun experience. It's a good idea to call and make a reservation in advance. Although, they do accept walking as long as they have the space. There is a room in the back that has small bar height table with stools. The food was good but didn't blow me away for the price. It's a little on the pricey side but they have unique dishes. The shrimp & grits was not great but we thoroughly enjoyed the European sea bass and the chocolate dumplings were a great way to end the evening.
(3)
Emily M.

Great experience!
(4)
Mel L.

This has been one of the smallest restaurants I have ever been to. ;) The place has only six tables and therefore only needs one waiter - a friendly guy who tends to mumble though, so I was only able to understand half of his words (but that was sufficient so it's all good). I came here for brunch today with a group of 4 people in total. We shared two cans of french pressed coffee as well as an order of crÃ¨me fraiche chicken wings. 3 of us ordered the panko chicken sandwich and DC #4 got the PBLT. The coffee as well as the chicken wings failed to impress me. The coffee was weak and fairly tasteless, the chicken wings smothered in so much in sauce that it was overkill. My panko chicken sandwich was great though. I found it fairly heavy for some reason, but it was really tasty as were the fries. The truffle mayo is definitely a great idea. The other two girls who ordered the same thing also loved it. DC #4 thought it was better than his PBLT. Overall a decent brunch/lunch, but I don't feel that this place is a must-try.
(3)
Dave U.

This restaurant has been on my wife's list for a long time. We finally had a chance to check it out with some friends who know the main Chef/Owner. We came for brunch on a Saturday morning, and he was not working. Staff was very attentive. We had a nice table in the back corner. At first glance, the outside building reminded me of a local diner, but once inside, we felt a cozy welcome. There's probably seating for about 25+ people. The restaurant has a view of Maple Avenue, hence the name? We had several selections off their brunch menu, including the famous and yelped about "crÃ¨me fraiche chicken wings". Everyone seemed to enjoy the taste and the quantity was plentiful. The wife enjoyed her PBLT* 16, and our friends ordered the Brunch for 2. That seemed like never ending plates of food. Since I am not a bone in chicken eater, I ordered the panko chicken sandwich. It came with fries and was a hearty sandwich. My only concern was that my sandwich came out after everyone was almost done with their own meals. Overall, the experience was pleasant and the food was tasty.
(4)
D K.

This was a good experience but I may have set my expectations a little high. We ordered the fried green tomatoes, creme fraiche wings, the duck confit, scallops in coconut risotto and the chocolate dumplings. The fried green tomatoes were pretty good but the wings were dry and lacked the creaminess of creme fraiche that we were craving. The duck came with an apple cider reduction that was definitely on point. Finally the best dish of the night was the scallops which ended up being the biggest surprise as well. Overall everything tasted a little overcooked: the wings (couldn't finish them), brussels that came with the duck and the dumplings. The burnt bitterness came almost with every bite in those particular dishes. Highlights included the basil ice cream in the coconut risotto (who would have thought that???), the duck and the perfectly seared scallops. Give it a go but come in with reasonable expectations.
(3)
Jennifer M.

We came here because we had heard wonderful things about this restaurant. We were not disappointed- we were seated right away and the menu had interesting choices. We decided to have the lunch special ( a small plate and a main plate or a dessert plate and a main plate for $21.) and a main plate. I had the pot roast sandwich with fries my daughter had the macaroni and cheese. My sandwich was very flavorful and perfectly cooked. The garlic mayonnaise and the onions crips really added to the flavored and textures. The fries were spiced with salt and Rosemary. The macaroni and cheese had 3 different cheeses and loads of flavor. As the second dish of my special I ordered the bittersweet chocolate bread pudding with vanilla ice cream. It was delicious. Very great lunch
(4)
Katie S.

4.5 stars. Maple Ave is located right next to a Mechants (FYI: don't park in their lot--they can and WILL have you towed immediately) in very small, very unassuming building with a teeny tiny dinning room that looks out onto rt 123 in the cute little town of Vienna. I have had this restaurant bookmarked for quite some time, so I'm very glad we finally got to try it! I would highly, highly recommend making a reservation to secure one of their ten or so tables, there isn't a whole lot of space to wait on a table (read: it takes a baby step to get from the front door to the host stand and another to the first table), so I can't imagine showing up without one. The menu is also on the smaller side, which I like, but everything sounded amazing, so it was still hard deciding what to order! Our server, who could have been Kristen Wiig's sister btw, was really helpful and quite amusing. At one point, she even busted into the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air's theme song! lol She actually ended up helping us pick our meals and was just all around a really awesome part of our experience! We ended up splitting mussels and baked mac and cheese with our dinner companions as an appetizer, and I thought both were phenomenal. The broth that the mussels were cooked in was fantastic! I actually wish the dish had come with more toast points to soak it up. Then the mac and cheese was rich and creamy, with the hint of blue cheese really making the dish pop. I ordered the duck confit as my main and may possibly never taste anything else on subsequent visits because it was sooooooooooooo good. Seriously. Picture this: perfect crispy skin, with the most moist and succulent, fall off the bone, juicy duck meat over top of the most amazing, perfectly charred and seasoned Brussels sprouts I have ever had. That's one hell of a run-on sentence right? Well it was one hell of a meal! It seriously may be the best thing I have ever put in my mouth. My dinning companions were also very happy with their meals, and thankfully no one objected to giving me a bite of their food for a taste of mine. My girlfriend's risotto with scallops and basil ice cream was interesting. When ordering, our server explained that the ice cream melts into the dish and makes this divine sauce, which I agree with her description, and found it very flavorful, but made for a kind of luke-warm risotto. However, my husband's mushroom risotto was fantastic and our other friend's chicken curry was very good as well. For dessert, our table split the bread pudding. To me, it was just OK. I'm not a huge bread pudding fan, so it takes a lot to really wow me, but the rest of the table seemed to really enjoy it. Overall it was a delicious meal and I am already scheming coming here for brunch asap since their brunch menu looks awesome too!
(5)
Herman W.

Go there if you want to try some interesting and creative dishes~ Many of them seemed to be influenced by Southern and Asian cooking style (FYI, the founding chef, Tim Ma is an Asian graduated from Georgia Tech). Shrimp and Grits It was the best Shrimp and Grits I have had for a while. Different from traditional shrimp and grits, it contains more shrimp and ham than grits. I was very happy about it. Creme Fraiche Wings The wings were good but not impressive. The sauce tasted like regular Korean chili sauce you could find in many Asian restaurants. But if you have no idea about what Korean chili sauce is, give it a try. You will not regret. Duck Leg Confit It seemed that the leg had been marinated for a while. But it was too salty for me. They could have added more apple cider gastrique to bring more sweetness. The best part was the crispy duck skin. Seared Scallops Basil ice cream was definitely the highlight of our meal. Scallops were perfectly seared. You could taste the coconut and cream favors mixing with the aroma of scallion and basil. Delicious! Restaurant's service was also great.
(4)
Debby F.

My friend took me here for lunch today and was so excited about me trying it. It was hands down the best lunch I can remember having. Fried green tomatoes Wings Pork belly sandwich Scallops You can see the menu for a full description of the items. AMAZING. We shared everything, as one should to get a bit of everything, and it was almost too much. Let me just paint you this picture - you're perfect bite is a piece of perfectly cooked scallop, a bit of coconut risotto, and a bit of basil ice cream. One bite. Magical. Tips: Make a reservation - it's a small place Lunch is $21 for an app and a main entree Get the scallops Get the fried green tomato that have going right now Menu changes
(5)
David H.

One of my favorite restaurants in the area. I always make it a priority on the to-do list when I am in the DMV to make a reservation at Maple Ave. Their menu changes, so things are always fresh. Some of their signature dishes like their seared scallop (served over coconut risotto and with a scoop of basil ice cream) and beef cheeks tend to stay on the menu, for good reason. The PEI mussels are always a joy to eat. Subtle hints of saffron in a lovely aromatic broth makes for a great dipping sauce for the crostinis served with the dish. I always drink a little of the soup with a spoon after it is all done. The diced Chinese sausage is a perfect compliment to the moist and tender mussels. The Thai okra is simply amazing. Like the mussels, I could drink the sauce the Thai okra is covered in. Who knew unbreaded okra could taste so good? Save room for dessert as well. My favorite is the Yuzu Lime Pie. I typically don't like marshmallow, but it is not too sweet here and goes together nicely with the tartness of the yuzu. Yeah, parking is a pain. But totally worth it. Brunch is just as good as lunch and dinner. So be sure to make reservations and grab a hot date cause she/he will be impressed. Also, they might be able to set special pre-fixe menus for you as well. My fiancee and I had a dinner with a tasting of a bunch of the menu items. You will have to call in and ask for sure. Chef Tim Ma is amazing!
(5)
Brenda D.

After being on my bookmark for several months, my girlfriends took me here for my birthday. They have their own parking lot, which is a plus for downtown Vienna. The restaurant itself was really small. I definitely recommend making reservations. The service was friendly, but our server was kind of forgetful. - The mussels were a good portion size and tasted ok, but nothing really special. The bread that came for dipping was too hard. - The duck leg confit was a very large portion. It was too salty for me, but the brussel sprouts helped tone it down. For being the most expensive item on the menu, I would not recommend ordering it. - The beef braised beef cheek tasted exactly like a Vietnamese dish called bo kho. Having grown up on this dish, it is not something I would order here. However, if you've never had this dish, I thought it was good and would recommend it. The beef was very tender. - The scallops were reasonably priced and came with 4 BIG scallops. They were very fresh and you could taste the natural sweetness. I liked my small sample from my friend's dish but I don't know how much coconut risotto I could eat without feeling overwhelmed. - The chocolate dumplings were delicious! Crispy wrappers filled with hot dark chocolate and cool ice cream. What a cute an perfect combination! Easily my favorite item that night. Overall I think this restaurant has fair prices with good food. It's cute and intimate so it works well for a special occasion or just casual dining. I would come back to try the rest of their small dishes.
(4)
Sonia P.

What an adorable restaurant in the heart of Vienna! As stated in all these reviews, reservations are a must and can be made online. This restaurant is teeny tiny and can fit around 25 guests (tops). The coziness of the restaurant paired with its eclectic menu all make for a wonderful dining experience. My girlfriends and I enjoyed our Sunday brunch here. They have a limited but unique brunch menu which includes truffled eggs, curried PEI mussels, and a BLT with pork belly. There's also a "brunch sampler for 2" where you get 6 courses for 2 people. We ended up getting the Shrimp and Grits to share (perfectly cooked shrimp with luscious grits and smoky sausage and okra). The Brunch Entrees were all delicious and perfectly portioned, you walk out full and satisfied. My friends liked their Kim Chi and Eggs and Venison omelet with blueberry venison sausage. Almond Ricotta Pancakes had a great almond and buttery flavor and but I wish it were more ricotta-y. Service was prompt and our server was super nice by asking if anyone had food allergies - they're happy to make substitutions. There's a small parking lot out back for cars which makes it interesting/"fun" to back out. I'd love to return and check out their dinner menu in the future. Cute date night spot or having an intimate dinner out with friends.
(3)
Elizabeth G.

My husband and I came here for brunch on Saturday. Yes, make reservations it was empty when we arrived at noon but quickly filled up with other reservations soon after. The food was great and the service was top notch. Six courses for two person meal was very satisfying. The portions are deceiving, although they were small they were very filling. Our favorites were the truffled eggs, bone marrow, which is an additional cost but don't pass it up, the pork belly hash, and he dessert blueberry crumb cake with vanilla ice cream!!! Yummmm :~}
(4)
Jodie R.

My family loves to come here on special occasions and this place never disappoints! :D The restaurant is EXTREMELY small, approximately the size of a living room -- so making a reservation beforehand would be a safe bet to get a table! Also, the menu is different depending on what time you come (for lunch, brunch, and dinner). The dishes are also a bit on the pricier side (but they're delicious *^*). I ate here for Father's Day dinner yesterday and I highly recommend the fried green tomatoes; they're perfectly battered so you get that crispiness on the outside, and no mushiness what-so-ever. I had the Moroccan Chicken, which is a seared boneless chicken leg; it was extremely tender (maybe a little too fatty/greasy for me -- but that's what makes it tasty LOL). My dad had the Whole Brozini which is HUGE by the way. I'm not a huge fish person, but my dad loves it. The fish tastes very clean. I was a huge fan of the onion fried rice that was served with it though omg. It just melted in your mouth and it was so addicting to eat. For dessert we ordered the Chocolate cake, which is flourless and not too sweet. I miss the funnel cake and ice cream mochi they used to serve though D: But a huge hit is the chocolate dumplings! (you must try them!!!) Anything really is delicious on their menu, depending on what you like! Maple Avenue is definitely a hidden gem within Vienna, and you should check it out (:
(5)
Layla L.

As if this place needs another stellar review..... Try the fried green tomatoes!!! They were SO flavorful, perfectly cooked. The duck leg confit with Brussel sprout salad was phenomenal. The brussel sprouts were shredded and mixed with an aoli then drizzled in honey- all the flavors perfectly complemented each other. I wish I could eat this every day! The duck leg was tender and flavorful and I don't normally like duck. It was easily the best meal I've had since leaving San Francisco 4 years ago. The ambiance leaves much to be desired. It's very plain, very loud and very small but honestly I couldn't care less. The dessert was nothing special. I'd skip it next time (had the bread pudding and lime pie). They close early (9pm). MAKE A RESERVATION- even on a week night. And it's not good for large parties, though I wouldn't be surprised if they try to accommodate you (it's just physically impossibly given how small it is in there). They were very friendly.
(5)
Kate P.

Wonderful! Very small, but very cute and cozy find. A must-go. Make a reservation. Service has been great on both occasions. Creme Fraiche Chicken Wings -- delicious. Very tasty but not loud, with just enough spice. My favorite wings ever. Try the lime pie and funnel cake! How fun and unique. I have tasted the Chicken shrimp spring roll, Fried Cauli Flower, Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwich, Panko chicken sandwich, Yuzu lime pie, funnel cake, and brownie. All were wonderful. Parking lot is tiny. This place is small but mighty! Exceptional!
(5)
daniel h.

Worth every penny, but yes make a reservation. Pros: The food is every bit a good as what others are saying. Well presented, balanced flavored, thoughtful combinations. Same for the wine list and non-alcohol drinks. Cons: A small kitchen staff and menu means fewer options for vegetarians and no flexibility for requests - so make sure there are at least a couple plates that sound appealing before you head out the door. - Call ahead to see what the specials are as well.
(4)
Karisa D.

Maple Ave Restaurant. Long have I admired you from afar. I first read about this foodie haven in Washingtonian magazine, in their Best Brunches issue. What intrigued me is their chef cooks a fusion of French, American, and Asian cuisine. Admittedly, I was skeptical, but intrigued. Maple Ave sat on my list for awhile until I went with some friends for brunch. My friend was very wise and made reservations. I highly recommend reservations as Maple Ave is a very small restaurant. We were seated immediately once we arrived and given menus. Though we were eating after 12, we were all focused on the brunch menu. We decided on coffee (they serve it in a french press, very classy) then put in our orders. I decided on the venison omelette. My friends got the ricotta pancakes and my fiance ordered the truffle eggs. The food was rich in flavor and delicious. I've never had venison before so I was cautiously curious. It was an interesting combination of flavors but the venison worked in the omelette. I tried my friend's pancakes and my fiance's eggs and they were also delicious. Prices for brunch are decent and similar to other places in the area. I do think for dinner their prices start higher so keep that in mind. The service at Maple Ave is wonderful. Everyone was attentive and helpful. It surprises me that this restaurant is in Vienna but I like it at the same time. It's like a small town restaurant with a sophisticated flavor without trying too hard.
(4)
Sara A.

So I've been here quite a few times (mostly for breakfast/brunch) but I tried the dinner this time and I was surprised. The dinner items we ordered didn't cut it for me. The shrimp and grits was OKAY and the Mac and cheese wasn't good at all (despite all the glorifying reviews about it) we so ordered the duck dish which my friend said was not bad. I think some places are just meant to be for breakfast or brunch. 3 stars for their delicious omelettes and brunch options.
(3)
Katie L.

I'm a real fan of their food. The restaurant space is small, so I highly recommend making a reservation. The food is pretty delicious especially if you enjoy different, progressive combinations of flavors. I loved the coconut risotto with seared scallops and basil ice cream, and the creme fraiche chicken wings. They've created really great twists on food we're familiar with and it works really well. I know that they're undergoing a change in management though their menu will stay the same, but I do hope they preserve the caliber of food and service. Their dessert menu also seems so scrumptious and would like to try them all; the flourless chocolate did not disappoint, YUM! For brunch, the almond ricotta pancakes taste like melting marzipan, it's incredible. You also can't go wrong with the pork belly hash. I'm definitely coming back again and again.
(5)
Haley M.

Deliciousness at its finest! At first look, you would never think this place had such amazing food. The restaurant is very small but it makes for a great dining experience. I can honestly say that this was one of the best meals I have ever had. I am not a huge fan of mac- n- cheese but theirs is to die for! I would recommend making a reservation before going since their restaurant has a smaller dining room. All of their employees are very nice and welcoming. They were very helpful when we were choosing our entrees and we couldn't have been happier with what they recommended. Soo good!
(4)
Daniel A.

JUST AWESOME! Had amazing time at Maple Ave! Very small restaurant with limited parking, but the food was to die for. Had reservations on Saturday for dinner, and met the rest of our small group there as they were already seated inside. We were promptly greeted by our server, and we ordered a bottle of the Cabernet Sauvignon with our appetizers. The server also brought out some crisped bread with garlic butter, which was also very tasty. I chose to start with the Thai okra, which was SPECTACULAR to say the least. The okra was roasted, and served with a garlic lime chili sauce, with scallions. For the main course, I went with the seared scallops, coconut risotto, scallions and basil ice cream. I requested a glass of Riesling to go along with dinner. The scallops were seared perfectly, were not rubbery, and seemed to just melt in my mouth. Both the coconut risotto, and basil ice cream worked perfectly with the saltiness of the scallops. Very satisfying! Other than the venue being a very tight space, the entire experience was very enjoyable for me. I would without a doubt recommend this restaurant to any foodie who wants a great dining experience in the Vienna area!
(5)
Michelle T.

Maple Ave Restaurant has definitely become my go-to brunch place in the area. The blending of Asian and Southern flavors with French-style cooking techniques yield dishes that keep me coming back for more. There isn't another place where I can get wings that remind me of Korean bonchon wings along with shrimp and grits with fried okra. The PBLT (pork belly, lettuce, and tomato with sunny side up egg) has succulent flavors and textures that left me licking all of my fingers. Next time - definitely trying the Thai-inspired mussels and baked mac. You can order from the menus - lunch and dinner menus are different - a la carte, or you can do their lunch or dinner specials (week days only). For lunch, it's $20 per person and you can order a small plate and a main plate or a main plate with a sweet plate. This is definitely a worthwhile deal as a main plate can cost between $12-$19. For dinner, it's a 3-course meal for $35 per person. The place is rather small so you should definitely make reservations.
(4)
Tom C.

Where price and quality hit perfectly! People have said this is one of the best brunch spot in the Tysons area and I feel somewhat silly for not trying this place earlier. Think of traditional american dishes with Asian influenced ingredients..this is how i cook at home! This is Tim Ma's (owner/ex chef) first restaurant which gets me excited for his other restaurant water and wall. First impression: Outstanding brunch. Shrimp & Grits: 4/5. PBLT: 5/5. Korean Wings: 4/5. Food Quality v Price: 5/5 We will see how my other visits will turn out to keep this outstanding rating.
(5)
Aesah L.

Went here for a low key birthday dinner with the hubby. Tiny little place with tricky parking--but definitely worth it. Excellent shrimp and grits, and apple salad. I got a fish dish with onion fried rice (DELICIOUS) and my husband got the moroccan chicken which he didn't bother sharing with me because it was that good. Highly recommend this place and make sure to make a reservation!
(4)
John W.

Second time here... And again I am simply blown away. Ladies and gentlemen... This food is top chef style. It truly is art meets food, and is consistently amazing. Both times I had the wings (these were written up in some magazine) and just tried the duck leg. I have also had the scallops. These dishes are (this is not an exaggeration mind you) perfect. If you are a foodie, and you are reading this, you will (I am Mind willing you) come here. This place is all about the food. Wow. Now, as for you goofs giving 4 star reviews because the place is small, crappy parking, and has strange hours, please stick to the chain restaurants. Yes these are all true statements. But this is a restaurant, and a chef's dream, and last I checked I will happily sacrifice the crappy (it truly is bad parking FYI) parking for epic food. Oh, and it is not any more expensive then any other place. Yeah... Foodies... Come. NOW. Update! I have now been here 8 times. Yeah... I know wtf. But guess what? Epic food EVERY TIME!
(5)
S W.

Another Yelp Bucket List pick...the food was great. The ambiance, not so much. I really wish the decor of this place was nicer, to match the level of cuisine. We ordered the Creme Fraiche wings and the scallops with risotto and basil ice-cream. Everything tasted really great. I would go back for the food, but not for the atmosphere. The staff was great.
(3)
Nae P.

I was veryyyyy excited to eat here as Ive heard many positive things about it. But i have to admit, I wasn't satisfied nor impressed. It could be possible that after hearing all the raves, my expectations mightve been too high. Just like another restaurant in DC that I've recently been to, called roses luxury, Maple Ave's menu is limited and the items rotate (seasonally? or monthly? Forgot what the waiter mentioned). Which is a very neat concept.....Although this concept is only successful if the food was good. We pretty much ordered all the small plates (which included: thai okra, roasted bone marrow, shrimp & grits, creme fraiche wings, pear salad, steamed pei mussels, bittersweet chocolate bread pudding, irish cream liqueur french press coffee) Each dish was seemed* enticing, unique, and conceptually innovative, but that was all it offered. I felt each of the dishes were just too simple and just didn't deliver. I definitely will give it another visit because i am determined to raise my impression this restaurant
(3)
Mark E.

My wife and I were lucky enough to be able to squeeze in between two reservations on a Sunday and enjoy a wonder brunch here. The food was incredibly fresh and you can tell they picked the highest quality ingredients for every dish they serve. Do yourself a favor and get a reservation here.
(4)
Sasha R.

if you close your eyes and pretend that you're not in what amounts to a boxed aquarium on the busiest street in vienna, you would swear that you were eating at some froo froo resto with angels singing in the background. the food here is fabulous, and truly of a caliber and ingenuity beyond the surroundings. (get the PBLT) we don't even live here and we make it a point to visit when we're in town. prices, considering the amazing-ness of the food, are rock-bottom.
(4)
Jennifer M.

Maple Ave is the first place that comes to mind when I'm looking for good 'local' brunch in the Tysons area. Reasonably priced for high quality and super tasty food. with superb service. It is hard for me to stray away from the Shrimp & Grits -- crisp, perfectly-cooked shrimp with fresh grits and an awesome sauce. The grits did dissolve a little bit in the sauce, but not too noticeably. And the cute little okra slices that look like flowers! And bits of venison sausage! Definite favorite. When I have torn myself away from this favored dish, I have found the Venison Omelette and PBLT (pork belly!) to be solid dishes. I'm not a fan of the Truffled Eggs, as the truffle oil tastes... over-truffle-y. I also think that truffle oil is a 'cheat' ingredient that doesn't belong in restaurant food. But hey, to each their own! My friends liked it, so if you are partial to it then go for it! Mesclun salad this last time was salty and overdressed. Homefries with onions are super tasty and definitely cooked in lard or something (greasy plate residue might be a hint), but I suggest you don't think about it and just walk it off later -- it's worth it! Small venue, so reservations are highly recommended. And as it is difficult to maneuver out of the parking lot, try parking across the street instead (which also allows you to walk off your homefries).
(5)
Jeanne W.

I've been here twice and the food is fantastic. I highly recommend the Scallops, Duck Confit (a bit salty, but nothing too offensive), and the Bone Marrow appetizer. The space is small so I recommend making a reservation, also know that it gets loud in there when it's busy, so if you want a really quiet night, this is not the best place. The service is great - just enough attention - and the chefs are great about accommodating allergies. I would recommend taking advantage of the Monday night and lunch time prix fixe options, both are really great deals!
(4)
Angela K.

This place is tiny! It doesn't fit a lot of guests and offers limited parking. Traffic here is pretty hectic and it can be a little dangerous/inconvenient to enter the lot. I had their eggs and kimchee dish for my main entree and their mochi flight for dessert. I wasn't too happy with the eggs and kimchee (because it's literally what I eat at home when I am too lazy to cook: spam, eggs, and kimchee), but their mochi flight was pretty good... I didn't expect their eggs and kimchee dish to be so simple, but I guess I should have yelped a picture before ordering.. It's not a fancy restaurant but it's cute for a quiet date, and because there's not a lot of seating I would highly recommend calling in advance to make reservations
(4)
Jessica L.

Tiny little restaurant with tiny private parking lot - can sit maybe 25 people max on tables that are put really close to each other. You need to make reservation in advance to get a spot! The exterior/interior is as plain as its name, however the food is delicious and the service is good. The shrimp and grits were well seasoned and really flavorful, the wings were good too but I had my expectation too high so they didn't wow me. The scallops were big, fresh, and seared to perfection! The coconut risotto was good before I got overwhelmed after finishing half of the portion. My friend ordered duck confit which is above average -the brussel sprouts were a little bit burnt and too salty in my opinion. Overall, 4 stars.
(4)
Nancy T.

I was really disappointed with my experience here. There were a few good parts. The Audrey Hepburn cocktail was delicious and the shrimp and grits appetizer was really good. The scallop entree, though, was a real let down. The scallops were cooked perfectly, but the coconut risotto and basil ice cream together were just way too sweet. The basil ice cream on its own as a dessert would have been amazing. When it melted into the already sweet coconut risotto it became almost inedible. It was just cloyingly sweet like a dessert. The actual dessert of chocolate dumplings was just OK. Nothing special. The dough casing was a little tough. I couldn't even get my fork through it so I had to pick it up to eat it. The warm melted chocolate filling saved it. The service was just OK. I was a little annoyed when one of us wanted decaf and one wanted regular coffee and we were told we couldn't have both, only one or the other. I get that they use French presses, but they couldn't spare another French press? Also we were told to give it about a minute, which we did. Probably more like 3 minutes. The coffee was still weak and watery. The interior and the decor is awful. The building looks like it's falling apart at the seams. The decor is a depressing mauve. The table rocked because one leg was shorter than the other. There was a gnat flying around us. When people started coming in later the noise levels were terrible. Just not a comfortable or fun experience or a place I want go back to. :(
(2)
Dale H.

We went for dinner. I ordered the marrow dish. It was well done but kind of heavy; however, I think it is the nature of the dish. Service was excellent. The place is very small and price is on the high side.
(4)
Miranda L.

One would not expect this tiny, shabby-looking place to be so nice on the inside, but it truly is! I have dined here twice and I've had their usual dishes: Thai shrimp and okra, fried green tomatoes, even the bone marrow (that last one was a little weird but hey, I'm adventurous). My favorites: The crÃ¨me fraÃ®che wings are delicious. There's even a Washington Post article written about them. Those scallops everyone is posting about? One of the best dishes I think I have ever ordered at any restaurant. Seared scallops over coconut risotto topped with a scoop of basil ice cream that quickly melts into a cream sauce. Everything blended together is delicate yet flavorful. For dessert I got the mochi ice cream. It comes in four flavors. I remember one was root beer and it was fabulous and a fun way to end such a classy meal!
(5)
Steve H.

This is a gem in Vienna. It's hard to find a good non-chain, foodie type restaurant outside of DC. This is a very small place, it might fit 25-30 people in the entire restaurant. Service is personal and very friendly. I'd would recommend reservations for weekends. We started with the creme fraiche chicken wings and the pear salad. The wings are nice and crispy with a korean sauce. For the entrees, we had the duck leg confit and the beer braised beef cheeks. The meals were well prepared, seasoned and tasted delicious. I don't remember the multiple cocktails we had, but they were very good. The chocolate bread pudding was a nice finishing course. Overall, we were very impressed with the service and the food. We would definitely go back and try the other dishes on the menu. Tim Ma is a great chef in this area and I look forward to trying his other restaurants & upcoming restaurants.
(5)
Ching H.

Brunch Review! I love that this restaurant sources its ingredients from local farms, but I was expecting a WOW Factor for Brunch, one that I did not get, especially considering all the great magazine articles naming it top restaurant and top brunch. I really do love the concept, and the idea of how the menu is seasonal and fresh. However, I just wish that the concept was consistent with its execution. The Tasting Menu for 2 for $36 dollars, was a great deal! It came with 6 courses to be shared. The food that came out was decently executed, but not the best I've ever had. The donuts that they served at the end were amazing, great texture, and reminded me of the Chinese doughnuts they serve at Chinese restaurants. We also ordered the Thai Mussels for $10, it was a bargain! The crostini's came out hot, and oozing with butter, I never even knew crostini's could taste like that. Our whole table really loved the crostini's, which is weird because it's just bread! But it was so flavorful!! My girlfriend ordered the venison omelette which came with potato hash and a side salad. It was good, but nothing that was awe inspiring. I really had high hopes for brunch, and it just really didn't live up to expectations. However the service was wonderful, loved our waiter he didn't miss a thing. P.S.- You have to make a reservation, because this place is TINY! And parking is not always guaranteed because their lot is pretty small.
(3)
James S.

Don't let the sketchy exterior scare you off. This place is well run, clean, and serves fabulous food. We were there for brunch and could not have been happier. Every course was delicious, and they worked wonders with straightforward/honest ingredients. Some highlights: Kika was a friendly and professional waitress. Wonderful mimosa with fresh squeezed juice. Perfectly cooked bacon with super flavorful truffel-oiled eggs (so light, and perfectly prepared). Eggs with KIMCHI--you must try this. Tomato soup with basil oil--literally the best tomato soup I've ever had. (don't tell my great grandmother!!). WORTH the visit! Amazing spiced pear cake--shockingly light and flavorful.
(5)
Shahab M.

This place is a gem. If you are in the neighborhood, do not miss it. We went there for brunch and the scrambled egg and bacon were heavenly. The potato was fried to perfection along with some onion. It was light -about right- both in portion (I mean this as a compliment) and taste. I know I am going there again before I leave in the next few days. I am conflicted what to order. Same wonderful egg, and bacon and the pancakes or should I try something new.
(5)
Kimisa W.

I came here for the basil ice cream,honestly it was not bad,but after all I also ordered chicken wings which were too heavy for me.LoL
(3)
Dana S.

I am sad to give it just three stars! It was one of my favorite restaurants ever! They changed the menu, and the chef apparently. Quality of food went way down!
(3)
Mo A.

Maple Ave Restaurant. A restaurant on Maple Avenue. Well, one more of life's mysteries has been solved. So, if a restaurant opts for such a plain jane name, how does that bode for the food? I'll tell you- the food here is awesome! This highly rated restaurant is located all the way in Vienna, VA, which is roughly 25-30 minutes from DC. The neighborhood is very quaint with an "old town" look in terms of architecture. The restaurant space is extremely small. It can probably fit no more than 15-20 folks at a time, and that number might be pushing it. As such, reservations are important. I recently bestowed upon a friend the honor of taking me to arguably the best (according to ratings) and perhaps most expensive restaurant in the DC area (Komi) for my upcoming 2014 birthday tour. Hey, don't worry, I earn my keep. Outside of whatever "currency" I'll use to say thank you, I also figured that taking her out for her birthday is probably fair. Billed as offering "New American" cuisine, Maple's menu definitely seemed inviting. While there isn't a ton of options, there's a decent amount of variety with some interesting twists. I tried the CrÃ¨me Fraiche Wings, Baked Mac, Beer Braised Beef Cheek, Mushroom Zucchini Risotto, Chocolate Dumplings and Bittersweet Chocolate Bread Pudding. The CrÃ¨me Fraiche Wings consist of an order of 6 medium to small sized wings that were cooked all the way through on the inside, while also achieving the perfect crisp on the skin. Truthfully, the star was the wing sauce, which was a concoction of crÃ¨me fraiche, Korean chili paste and oyster sauce. Basically a creamy sauce that gave you a moderate heat level and a blast of refreshment at the same time. It made the typical requirement of needing a ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce...a thing of the past. *GASP!* The Baked Mac consisted of three cheeses (gruyere, cheddar, blue) mornay, fresh fusilli and herbed panko crust. Really balanced mac. It was cheesy but just enough to make it noticeable. It was also creamy, seasoned and the crunch from the panko was a great end to each bite. The Mushroom Zucchini Risotto came in a nice sized portion of deliciousness. Served along with three crostinis, the risotto had the perfect consistency as it found a middle ground between being firm and runny. The cheese in the dish was able to stand out without going overboard. I wish there was more zucchini in the dish but there was an abundance of delicious mushrooms. Beer Braised Beef Cheek also comes with sweet potato puree, caramelized onions. The beef cheek came in a heaping portion size. The meat was tender, moist and packed with flavor. It was topped with a marinade that hit sweet notes with slight hints of tang. Chocolate Dumplings was a pretty straight forward dessert. Four dumplings filled with chocolate fudge and served with vanilla ice cream. Nothing amazing, the dish was pretty average. I think the dish would be better served with a different filling (chocolate mousse or marscapone) and just having the fudge sauce on the side. Bittersweet Chocolate Bread Pudding was a slightly better dessert. It was more of a cake than true bread pudding but the flavors were balanced. Birthday girl raved about it so clearly her bday wish before blowing out the candle must have worked out. Talk about flying under the radar. Maple is definitely one of the better restaurants in the DC area and a decent value considering the quality. It is a little pricey (bill was about $100 without tip), but was worth it. Suddenly, the drive all the way out to Vienna doesn't sound so bad after all!
(4)
Frank H.

On a cold Friday night, I was able to finally try out Maple Ave Restaurant with some delightful company, after reading about it for what seems like ever. The restaurant itself is even smaller than I had imagined, with only about 8-10 tables dispersed inside a very straightforward box shape. There were quaint touches to it though, such as the scrapbook found on every table, which served as the drinks menu. As a starter, my date and I shared the mussels, steamed and served in a saffron and coconut broth with bits of chinese sausage. A very warm and comforting bite, but also read a little one note. I was satisfied, but wasn't blown away. Because I am in the season of Lent as a Catholic, I had to stick with only seafood options, which is why I opted for the seared scallops as my entree of choice. Served on top of a generous portion of a coconut risotto and a small scoop of basil ice cream, the 4 scallops were perfectly seared with a nice crust on both sides. All of the flavors melded extremely well together, with my only complaints being the risotto may have been a tad salty, and the basil ice cream may have taken too long to freeze up as evident by the chunky texture from the large ice crystals (a smooth ice cream has small ice crystals, which comes from faster freezing and churning times, which is why liquid nitrogen ice cream has such a luscious mouth-feel, but I digress). A pop of acid would've done the plate some good. My date ordered a chicken dish which I sadly could not taste, but the bed of vegetables they were on were delicious and well seasoned. Overall, my experience at Maple Ave was okay. Don't get me wrong, the service was great, the ambiance was nice, and the food wasn't bad. I just think maybe the hype got to me, which resulted in too high of expectations. Or maybe it was because the Executive Chef/Owner Tim Ma recently stepped away from his restaurant. I still give it 4 stars though because I think if I hadn't read about it before and just stumbled upon the restaurant, I would've liked it a lot more. Be sure to make reservations though because the place is extremely small! If you don't feel like grabbing dessert here, there's a few bakeries and coffee shops that are within walking distance which made for a very nice end to my night, ^_^.
(4)
Patty O.

The food was amazing. The place is super small but great service. I look forward to trying this place again
(5)
Mara T.

Went there with a friend for lunch. We enjoyed fried green tomatoes, macaroni and cheese (practically licked the bowl clean), and a beet salad. Will go again with my friend for lunch as our lunches are more of a special occasion since we only meet up a couple times a year. One star off for high prices on small plates and the beet salad needed more flavor - beets should have been pickled. We liked the limited seating but could be a little more elegantly decorated. Doesn't look like much from the outside but the food is good.
(4)
Anna M.

absolutely a little gem! we were looking for a small intimate, yet relaxed restaurant to celebrate our wedding with our parents. A good friend highly recommend Maple Ave and it did not disappoint. The food was amazing, the atmosphere was exactly what we were looking for, and the service was impeccable. The restaurant is very small, so reservations are highly recommended, but with reservations we were seated right away. We started with local beers and sangria (yay to the local beers!), fried green tomatoes, bone marrow, muscles, and the shrimp and grits. Everything was delicious. I highly recommend the friend green tomatoes! Our main course meals were the special, which was a soft shell crab, braised beef cheek, seared scallops, and the bronzini. Again, everything was delicious. The scallops and beef cheek were my favorites in that bunch. The beef cheek was incredibly tender and well paired with the sweet potato. The scallops were absolutely melt in your mouth wonderful and the coconut risotto with the basil ice cream? OH MY GOSH.... i just can't... so good... The chef sent out a wonderful little raspberry dessert with vanilla ice cream which was sweet and tart and just perfect. Thank you so much to everyone there who made our day that much more wonderful! We had a lovely evening and plan on coming back!!
(5)
Jacqueline L.

Went here for dinner and definitely a place where you should make reservations in advance if you'd like to sit in the front-end of the dining area. Otherwise, there are additional seats in the back of the restaurant (which look like they took half of the kitchen area and did a makeover). The atmosphere is intimate, cozy, and service is friendly. The following dishes are worth noting: Scallops w/basil ice cream - Never thought ice cream could go so well as a main entree instead of dessert, but this works! Scallops were cooked well too. Bone Marrow appetizer - If you're a fan of bone marrow, this is definitely worth a try. Yuzu Lime Pie - The homemade marshmellow on top of the lime pie adds a fluffly, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
(4)
Tucker H.

After finally making it back to Maple Ave, I figured I should get around to updating my review, but to be perfectly honest, I'm not sure how many stars to go with. On the one hand, some of our food was totally fantastic (my PBLT was basically a perfect play on a BLT using thick-sliced but tender pork belly and a tomato compote), but some of it was underwhelming (my potato hash seemed to consist of frozen ore-ida home fries with a few thin slices of onion). The veggie omelet was fine if not amazing, but the mushroom zucchini risotto was definitely a better-than-average brunch offering. And in a minor mis-cue, all of our mesclun salads were over-dressed. Overall I think I'd like to go back once more, probably for dinner this time, but I wouldn't call our two meals to date unqualified successes...
(3)
Les B.

Based on YELP reviews - a few business colleagues from IBM joined me for dinner. Our initial impression was that the restaurant is smaller and more 'informal' than we would have thought based on the website... with a main dining room having windows on 3 sides, and a view of the main road. That said - the decor, music and environment were comfortable and inviting. Our waiter recommended sharing small plates - and after looking at the amazing offerings on the menu, we eagerly complied. Tasted the shrimp and grits, mussels, wings, mac-and-cheese, pear salad, lemongrass salad ... and for good measure, the scallops entree. Food was amazing - beautiful - delicious... and a bit too much for the 3 of us. As much as we wanted to taste dessert, there simply was no more room!! Our waiter was awesome, attentive, kind and helpful. I will recommend this destination to all of my colleagues - and I plan to return the next time I am in town and available. Thank you for a wonderful meal.
(4)
Stella O.

Went back on a Monday night. There was only another couple and lots of reserved tables. I saw a couple wait for 20 mins for a table and asked about the reserves sign. The host was dressed in a hoodie and sweat pants. She was fiddling with the music and was drinking in the kitchen... Terrible! There is no excuse for bad service because this restaurant is small but this place went downhill!!! So did the food. Carnality Brussel sprint means it should be brown not BLACK.. I got burned food and my friend got his veggies drenched in butter. What happen to the chef??? If he saw what his staff were doing, I would be a pissed off owner!
(1)
Stacy H.

What they say about a book's cover? Yeah, don't judge the book by its cover. This place is a very low key restaurant where you think it is just a regular neighborhood restaurant but you will be surprised by their talented chef( or whoever is creating the menu) and their unique dishes. Find time and eat there, Yelpers, you will love his place.
(5)
Eric S.

I had a bad meal at this restaurant this week. The food was creative but did not taste good at all. I think they are reading their clippings too much. On a Monday evening we were greeted with a snooty "Do you have a reservation" . Vienna has many nice places that do not include that treatment. It was also cold and uncomfortable and there was some peeling paint on the ceiling. This is not a cheap restaurant and should have the surroundings in order.
(2)
Annette C.

Extremely loud restaurant. Small servings and crammed in sardines. They offered complimentary dessert and bypassed free desert because of loud atmosphere. Beer fries were the only highlight.
(2)
John D.

Looks like my experiences have been all over the place with this restaurant. We went there when the power was out. I had the rabbit saddle, she had watermelon gazpacho and the scallops with vanilla ice cream. All was great, and the service was great. They didn't have any tables in the dining room, so we opted for immediate seating in their rear dining room. The only catch is that it's not air conditioned, it's screened in (the rear dining room) Even though it was nearly 100F outside, it wasn't unbearable.
(4)
Joann B.

Our visit was specifically for the creme fraiche wings and the eggs w/ kimchi. We also tried the pork belly lettuce tomato (PBLT). The PBLT was a super messy sandwich with the sunny side up egg running all over. The pork belly might need to be cooked a little bit longer, otherwise, it's an ok sandwich. It was really overshadowed by the delicious wings and the eggs w/ kimchi dishes. The wings were made well and had a decent amount of chili paste and some red Korean sauce that is similar to sriracha. It was very spicy and could have used some more green onions, but these wings were very good. The eggs with kimchi is such a great comfort food item. There was a good amount of Chinese sausage (my favorite), and the kimchi was more savory than sweet. It all went together so well and I could eat it on a daily basis - I only wished they provided a bit more spam to eat with the rest of the eggs and rice! The chocolate dumplings are tasty too and not heavy at all. It's the perfect light dessert to a great meal here. The dumplings aren't necessarily like steamed dumplings in consistency, think more like a small chocolate filled empanada a la mode. Very good! This restaurant is really small and reservations are a must. If you want to have a nice, private meal, this is not the place. You sit very close to your neighbors, so it's easy to hear any conversation being had in the dining room.
(4)
Sherita N.

Last night makes the third time I've been here. The first time I didn't realize you had to have a reservation because it's so small but after that I was hell bent on getting in! The second time we made a reservation so we were in!! Everything was amazing! Love the wings!! The menu changes slightly but they pretty much have some of the same dishes from last year, why change perfection? I want to check them out for brunch and lunch just to see how the menu varies. My new favorite drink is the Jack & Rose
(5)
Shawn S.

just an update.... The Beet salad, yellow beets? a little different than the last one.. but really good.... Scallops where really good!
(4)
Greg G.

Woderful place! Food was great and creative! I'd deffanatly go back in a heart-beat. Parking on the other hand... We couldn't find any parking that they offered due to the snow.
(5)
tina y.

came here for lunch again. I still love this place. still love the appetizers. I ordered the butternut squash soup - which was the best I ever had. tasted like thanksgiving! husband got the mac n cheese w/ panko crust - sooo good. not too cheesy or rich. it was perfect. this time I got the lettuce wraps w/ pork belly. DO NOT order this entree unless you want to go hungry. you get 4 small wraps w/ a very small thin piece of pork belly on top of a little mound of rice, kimchi (my mom makes better), and pickled veggies. for $17, I thought I would be getting more pork. I think the amount of pork belly I got in the whole dish was one strip (size of a strip of bacon). they should put this dish on the small plates and lower the price. I knew I should have ordered my first instinct of scallops. but the funnel cake dessert made up for the entree. husband got the panko crusted chicken sandwich on brioche was again delicious. still love this place. I'll upload a picture of the lettuce wraps so you can judge for yourself.
(4)
Lori A.

This little hole in the wall place on 123 in Vienna is definitely a place worth checking out. Looking at it from the outside, it looks like a little rundown place but the inside is so cute and not what I expected at all. They have awards and rave review plaques hanging on the walls from publications such as the Washingtonian, the Washington post, etc. One detail that really caught my eye was the little personal notes other patrons had written in their menu. That really gave it a cozy little feel. I agreed to go here for brunch even though I was a little skeptical after perusing the menu. We decided on the 6-course for 2 brunch. We started off with the truffle eggs and bacon. The truffle oil in the eggs was a different taste but I loved it! The bacon was perfectly cooked too- crispy but still soft as well. The second course was the cucumber gazpacho soup. To be honest I could have done without the soup, however I am not a huge fan of cold soup to begin with but the couple of slurps I did take were refreshing. The third course was the pork belly potato hash. OH MY GOSH!!! Best pork belly I've had in a while. The potatoes were crisp and had the best sauce with it. If I could have just ordered this as a meal I definitely would have! Go here JUST to try this, not kidding! The fourth course was the crostinis, salami, gruyere cheese and mustard. It was a really good meat tray and the bread was perfectly toasted. The fifth course was the fried green tomatoes in a garlic aioli sauce. To die for!!!! They were so yummy and I couldn't get enough of the sauce. The last and final course was a peach crepe with chocolate sauce drizzled overtop. I am not a huge peach fan but my boyfriend ate it up in minutes. This dining experience was great and I would definitely recommend going here! Just be sure to make a reservation because the restaurant is pretty small and it will ensure that you don't have to wait. Also, the staff is very friendly and inviting, and our server was always on top of our drinks and checking in to make sure we were ok. He also did a good job at describing what we were about to eat.
(5)
Roscoe R.

We really enjoyed the shrimp and crab poppers. Best French onion soup I have had in a while. Service was excellent they even had a piano at the bar. It doesn't look very appealing from the outside, but it is great inside.
(4)
Susan B.

Seriously this place has funnel cake on the dessert menu! My new favorite restaurant...the soft shell crab sandwich is amazing!!!
(5)
Christopher O.

Cozy little unassuming restaurant with fantastic plate presentation kind staff and incredibly tasty fare.
(5)
Denise B.

Love this place! Former Anita's. We had the shrimp small plate, crab cake & pulled pork tenderloin yummo! This place is tiny but huge on taste. We ate before a concert @ wolftrap based on yelp reviewers. The chocolate bread pudding was sooo good. Lite decadent and amazing. I'm sure this place will have to get a bigger place cause there is going to be lots of fans. The chef should appear on Top Chef,,!
(4)
Erin H.

Maybe we came on a bad night, but I wasn't impressed with this restaurant. The plating was awesome, but the food portions were extremely small and really expensive. The cauliflower I got was dry and nearly burnt, and it was really hard to find vegetarian dishes. The art on the walls is local and really nice, but the place is so small that you are practically sitting on other people. I want to try again...but only if someone else pays!
(2)
L P.

5 stars if you are looking for inventive and delicious food for a great value. I had a 3 course lunch for $23 which includes tax. A great new addition for the Tysons Corner lunch crowd. Whenever I try new restaurants, I want to taste as many dishes as possible to get a better idea of what they offer. I had a small plate, main plate, and a sweet plate. I had tried one of their "small plate" specials, stuffed fig with foie gras, micro green salad, duck proscuitto with some sort of mushroom sauce. The ingredients were of high quality and you can just tell there was love put into the dish. It was beautiful. The taste combinations were spot on. Sweet with the fig balanced with luxurious taste of foie gras mixed with the salty duck proscuitto and lightened up with the micro green and mushroom puree/sauce. That would've cost more than the 9 bucks at any other restaurant, but what a great deal. I think the lower prices of their dishes will be a competitve advantage to the sucess of this restaurant. I'm assuming that their less than glamorous location will do three things: 1. lessens overhead 2. passes the savings on to their customers 3. more people will have the opportunity to taste fancy food at really reasonable prices. The second dish I learned was inspired by the chef's love of the Chik-fil-A chicken sandwich. I had the fried chicken sandwich with fries. Compared to Chik's, this sandwich was a bit more substantial with higher quality ingredients. It was a simple looking dish with complex flavors. The sandwich's bright spot was the truffle mayo. I loved, loved, loved it! What a simple, yet smart idea to differentiate the dish and make it memorable. The chicken was nice and moist and the breading was crispy but not greasy. The pickles were hardier than what you would've received at Chik-fil-A and I should've asked for more pickles like I normally do at Chik-fil-A. There was a small amount of crispy lettuce, but it was good to see my plate not being showered with parts of my sandwich. The bun was toasted and it appeared to have been lightly oiled. The fries were nice and crisp and sprinkled with a little bit of kosher salt. They were good but not special and that's ok. I was done with lunch until I became curious about the dessert menu. The waitress, who was super friendly and helpful, took the time to explain the menu and answered all of my questions. You could tell she loved food, too. When I learned that their mochi ice cream dessert was made fresh to order by the famous Bubbies (which has been featured by Oprah Magazine), I figured I could make room in my tummy for the small dessert. I ordered the guava flavored one. I thought I was only going to get one piece, but it came with two. I was only able to finish one. It was unique for me - and acutally my first time trying mochi. It is covered with a sweet-rice dough which lends to a chewy texture and filled with premium ice cream. I thought it was ok, but next time I'll try another dessert. I think it needed a little crunch factor and maybe a sauce to really complete the dish. The plating was a little plain - mochi cut in half with one resting on top of another on a square piece of banana leaf covering a square white plate. Nonetheless, it is a unique dessert item. I'm curious to try their chocolate dumpling next time. Overall, a great restaurant. The decor is eclectic with black granite tables and local art on the wall. You are served a meal on a real plate with a linen napkin. Even though the location is a bit underwhelming but I think that is what gives it its charm. Considering that this is the chef-owner's first venture and its existence is based on a leap of faith, I sincerely congratulate him for following his dream. Being a big foodie with a similar dream, I can tell this restaurant is truly a labor of love.
(5)
Shannon N.

Went here for lunch with a friend and I was a little skeptical looking in from the outside. It doesn't look much if you didn't go online and see that it's like a gourmet restaurant! It's super tiny, as is the parking lot. It literally has maybe 13 or so tables and you definitely need a reservation if you want to eat here. We saw at least 6 couples come in wanting to sit down and there is just no room if you don't reserve a table ahead of time. The food was really yummy! They had lots of choices ranging from a chicken sandwich to braised beef cheeks...yes I said beef cheeks! I had the Moroccan Chicken with cous cous and grilled veggies and in this amazing sauce! My friend had the chicken sandwich with these divine fries (I stole more than 3)! They had other stuff like mussels and shrimp and grits. The plain old house salad with their house dressing was sooo yummy! The dessert menu is very unique. We got funnel cakes with vanilla bean ice cream and powdered sugar! I felt like I was at the state fair. This place is super unique and I think there is something for your average taste buds or if your feeling particularly foodie and adventurous. Was a little pricy though, so bring your wallet. Fantastic and I will be going back and bring others with me... With a reservation of course!
(4)
Jason S.

Having heard a lot of buzz about Maple Ave Restaurant, I was shocked how disappointed I was with the food and atmosphere. They were out of the one item on the menu that sounded somewhat edible. My replacement BBQ chicken was downright gross - all fat, slimey and their idea of BBQ sauce is insulting. Given the price, it was a rip off. We had to sit in the back since we didn't have a reservation (we visited on a whim). The 'back' is a somewhat enclosed area void of air conditioning, but full of stink bugs crawling around on the ground. There were two highlights of our visit. 1) The baked mac-n-cheese small plate (although fresh rosemary would have been better than dried). 2) Finally escaping from their cramped parking lot, never to return. Perhaps sitting in the front section would have left us with a more positive feeling, but the below-par, over priced food could never win us over.
(2)
John G.

Good lord, what an awful experience. Given the rude, inattentive staff and an ambience better suited to a used car lot than a restaurant, you've got to serve to-die-for food to justify the prices charged, and Maple Avenue Restaurant missed on every level. Don't get me wrong. The food wasn't bad; it just wasn't great. The deal breaker for me quite honestly was the wait staff. Not noly were they slow, rude and forgetful, when the orders did finally come, they were wrong. If ANYTHING had gone right, I might assume I just arrived on a bad night. As it is, there are way too many great restaurants in the area to give this one a second chance.
(2)
Christine J.

I love finding mom & pop shops....well, this is a very young mom & pop shop so it's a hipper environment that the usual. Maple Ave serves "New American" which means regular American food with a cool twist to it. Their Dr. Pepper Steak and Mac & Cheese were so good. I had their potsickers for appetizer and chocolate dumplings afterwards. I will definitely tell others about this place. Also, it's a good place for mid-size events, like wedding rehearsal dinners. The restaurant is small, fits up to 28, so you'll most likely have the place to yourselves for couple hours. They were busy last night even though they opened up not too long ago. The owner's story is inspiring (find on their website) and makes you want to support them in their new endeavors.
(5)
Rebecca V.

Boy do I wish this place had better food. It's a cool little venue and you can really see how hard everyone is trying to make this into a little hipster gastropub right there on Route 123. Perhaps I need to improve my menu reading skills, but our food wasn't what we expected, and I don't mean that in a magical way. The Spanish dumplings were deep fried (perhaps everyone else knows that pasteles=deep fried?) and tasted like they were filled with rice; the sweet potato gnocchi was mostly a plate of buttery mushrooms with some deep fried gnocchi (?) thrown in; the potstickers were ok; the kobe burger was ok; but my apple salad had lots of fried onions in it (a la Durkee) that dominated the taste and I didn't remember seeing that listed in the description. In fact, we had no idea that we were ordering so much fried food, and we didn't particularly care for it. The pumpkin butter served with bread was delightful, and our server was very nice. Perhaps our ordering was off and we should give it another try. We'll see.
(2)
sassy f.

came here on a sunday for dinner. best appetizer....mussels. also very good....the crispy cod. we also ordered the shrimp and grits (after reading about it in so many ppl's reviews). wasn't as good as i thought it was going to be....kind of bland. for entrees, we ordered the beef ribs and moroccan chicken. the braised beef was very good and went well with the sweet potato mash it came with. nothing special about the moroccan chicken. unfortunately, we didn't get to try any dessert b/c we were stuffed! for a party of 3, we should have just ordered 2 apps and 2 entrees. the place is a little pricey. check came out to be $100 including tip.
(3)
Ryan S.

I just feel bad for this place. We used to love it. It was super hard to get a seat sometimes! When out-of-towers visited, this is where we went. Something changed. We had a few bad experiences and can't bring ourselves to go back. They set the bar really high that first year or so. Maybe you'll have better luck.
(2)
Ryan E.

This is our go-to, numero uno. Sure there are "nicer", more lavish places out there, but nothing beats Maple Ave for it's quaint neighborhood feel, with the freshest and most flavorful local ingredients. Chef Tim Ma has not faltered on a single dish. They change their menu frequently, but when they have it, my personal favorite is the tuna tartare, which has a beautiful buttery texture, topped with micro greens and a sesame sauce. For sweet stuff, you can't go wrong with the chocolate dumplings. Fried dough filled with melted, gooey, chocolate ganache. These are awesome. As a beverage, I highly recommend the Tincho. White wine with a kick, it's citrusy, lightly carbonated, and refreshing. The service has always been very friendly and accommodating. We love this as a local hot spot with consistently great food. And I write this with a torn heart because while I want everyone to experience the awesomeness that is Maple Ave, at the same time I want to keep it as it feels - like a best kept secret.
(5)
Kimberly E.

I went to Maple Ave Restaurant for lunch with friends. All the food was DeeeLICIOUS. The menu selections are refreshingly different. I had the Panko Chicken Sandwich with truffle mayo -- loved the taste combinations! The quality ingredients they use are worth the price. It's very clean. Bonus points to them for using fresh ingredients from local vendors and for adorning the walls with works of local artists. I can't wait to go back and eat there again ... and again! It's a boutique size restaurant, so I recommend making a reservation. (The one drawback is the small and very narrow parking area on the side/back of the building. I suggest parking across the street in the Magruder's lot.)
(4)
Michael J.

Great food, creatively prepared. Try the chocolate dumplings...yum
(4)
Tracy V.

We had a great salad and fish and chips for dinner . The salad was fresh, tasty well balanced and not overdressed. We especially liked the dressing. I tried a cocktail recommended by the server and it was crisp and refreshing as promised. The Fish and Chips were light crisp and not greasy a definite cut above the norm. We ate in the back which is somewhat lacking in decor. It felt a bit like the garage. But the staff was friendly and the service was good. I will be returning.
(4)
Amy T.

I was lucky enough to have tried quite a few dishes. From looking at the building, it's a small building with a really nice sign. You can sense how much thought and care went into everything. It's not a cookie cutter restaurant. Service was really good. Even better was the food. i tried the pork belly fried rice, mussels, Moroccan chicken, mac and cheese, shrimp and grits, scallops with basil risotto and ice cream trio, duck breast and beer battered fries. Some of the flavor combinations are surprising and works out wonderfully. I am a big fan of pork belly, and I knew that that dish would be great to even before I tried it. It was beyond my expectations and really reminded me of comfort food. If you like comfort food, also consider the mac and cheese and Moroccan chicken. Scallops with basil risotto and ice cream trio was my favorite dish. Even the fries were nicely seasoned and well done. My guess is you can't go wrong with any dish with that restaurant. It's definitely worth the treat to eat out there.
(5)
Alex S.

I too was part of the group that dined at Maple Avenue with James below. though i was not part of the planning process, i had to say that, they seemed very accomodating considering the size of the location. from the time we got there to the time they left, service was spectacular. so much to the point that i signed up for a yelp account just to review this location. LOL. Our server Jess was extremely friendly and very knowledgeable about the menu and drinks. this place does seem like a great place for dates as James said. One thing he forgot to mention was the Mobile version of their store that the owner talked about that travels to tysons area(which im trying to catch!!) i thought this was a great idea for lunch in the corporate areas. i recommend this place to anyone who is looking for a nice laid back cozy atmosphere where they could go with a significant other or just friends. im taking this review beyond the walls of Yelp and have been raving about this restaurant to friends family and coworkers!!!
(5)
Sean S.

Source locally- a bit noisy but fun. Food is delicious but need to change menu more often as it is pretty limited.
(4)
Jeanne L.

Our experience at Maple Ave restaurant was great from start to finish. We choose to celebrate a friends upcoming nuptials at Maple Ave. Everyone commented on how great the food was and loved the intimate setting. The wait staff was very accommodating and friendly. they took the time to explain each dish to us. Overall, it was a great experience and I can't wait to go back.
(5)
Elaine I.

The menu is innovative and delicious. It also is always changing to include different options in addition to some relatively constant staples. The fusion of different cuisines is always a delight. The small plates are fabulous to share or to satisfy as a light meal. The desserts - very yummy! There have been times where I found a lemon seed in my dish or the ice tea tasted old, but all in all, I am so glad this place opened up in Vienna!
(4)
Mark B.

I was debating on 2 or 3 stars but decided on 3 because the food was ok and the price wasn't bad. And to clarify I would be coming back for the food and not the decor or ambiance because the place clearly skimped on that dept. The potstickers were flavorful and delish. Can't say the same thing about the mac and cheese. The sauce was runny and not cheesy. The chef went to the French Culinary Institute but I dont think he even used a bechamel, chef? The Dr. Pepper short ribs were good but i loved the grits that was served with them more. Dessert was ok. Chocolate dumplings were a little greasy but how can you go wrong with funnel cake? I definitely want to try Maple Ave one more time to get a better feel of the restaurant and menu since i live fairly close by.
(3)
Mitch C.

Fantastic meal for our birthday celebration. Great foodie food and excellent service.
(5)
Sohe K.

I've driven by the former Mexican restaurant for the last few years and the new Maple Avenue restaurant almost everyday to and from work. Although I've never tried the Mexican restaurant (it looked super run down) I was very eager to try Maple Avenue when they opened. The first time I attempted to dine here. I took my little sister the week of her birthday because she LOVES funnel cake and she never gets to have it. We made reservations for 6:50. We live very close by so we got there around 6:45. There were a few tables open but I think they were reserved. I guess the table they had reserved for us was not ready because the previous people were still sitting there. The manager there was very nice and kept apologizing to us and explained that she thought they seemed to be leaving when she took my reservation but I guess there was a change of plans. 20-25 min later my sister got hungry so we just left. We ended up eating at corner bakery. Sad day for her. Last night, my friend and I attempted to eat at Maple Avenue. This time it was a success! There was 3 tables of boisterous office men having dinner which crowded the tiny restaurant which made it hard to have a conversation with my friend who was literally 2 feet from me but it was okay. The restaurant itself is pretty tiny. I'm thinking it seats 20-25 people so make sure you make a reservation before you go! I ordered the pan-fried dumplings and shrimp and grits (both off the small plates) and she ordered the kobe burger with blue cheese. They served us pumpkin butter with toasted pieces of bread. The pumpkin butter was an interesting idea. I wasn't sure what it was at first so I put a lot of it on my really thin piece of bread but bread and butter = win so no complaints there. The butter was served in this really tiny espresso size cup; so cute! The dumplings were SO good. I could've ordered about 3 of those orders. They come 4 to an order. They were so juicy and succulent. Perfectly seared on the bottom and not crazy fried. The filling was a nice balance of chives and pork. The shrimp and grits was served with 3 nicely sized and perfectly cooked shrimp, grits, some sort of diced meat, and okra! I love okra. The grits could've been more warm and it had this watery sauce but still overall delicious!! My friend's burger was delicious as well. You could really taste the truffle in the truffle mayo. The fries served with the burger were perfectly crispy and nicely salted. Joey was so nice enough to remember me and the incident that happened the first time and she brought out a couple desserts for my friend and I to share. Cinnamon rice pudding and strawberry mochi. Both were very delicious also. I will definitely have to go back and try the funnel cake!
(4)
justin w.

Great little restaurant tucked into a very busy part of Vienna. It has a small dining room but it doesn't seem to get too loud when its crowded. The times that I have gone the serving staff was very kind and knowledgeable and the food has been delightful - well prepared and flavorful. They have art on the wall provided by artisans from the local art/music cafe 'The Soundry' and the big windows around the dining room let in a lot of natural light which is always wonderful. I look forward to seeing how they develop the back area of the restaurant. I have been recommending this place to all of my good pals and I hope that you will help keep this restaurant around.
(4)
Alexandra N.

Went to Maple Ave on a Wednesday night with my boyfriend to celebrate my first big girl paycheck (woohoo!). Our waiter was extremely nice and attentive. I got a glass of wine & he got beer. We started off with 2 small plates. My boyfriend got shrimp & grits and I got the procuitto & arugala salad. They were both delicious & we were very happy with our choices. I thought they were perfect appetizer portion sizes, and we both cleaned our plates. We both got a main plate, he got the Dr. Pepper Ribs & I got the Rice Bowl - name is a little misleading; its main component is pork belly (amazing!), grilled spam, kimchi, & a fried sunny-side-up egg on top of some white rice. Reading the description I wasn't sure what I was getting but I was SO happy I chose this. It was so good, and tasted great together in the weirdest way. I also tasted the ribs & they were delicious, my boyfriend loved them & the fries were great too. The portions of the main plates were more than adequate. I took about half of mine home, and my boyfriend struggled to finish his ribs. Note: neither of us are dainty - we were both extremely full by the end of the main plates & walked in starving. We then stuggled to eat the chocolate dumplings that were recommended by our waiter, but they were delicious also. Overall, I was really impressed. The service was good, the food was beyond my expectations and they get big bonus points for music, which mainly consisted of the Beatles 1 cd (loves it!) Our total bill came to $84 that included: 2 glasses of wine (what can I say, I'm a lush), 1 beer, a coffee, 2 small plates, 2 main plates, 1 dessert. Their prices are really decent, and I would have saved myself $20 if I hadn't chosen a wine that was $9 a glass. Although the dining area is small, on a Wednesday night there were only about 4 parties dining at one time, and a party of 6 came in and fit comfortably (from what I could tell). I didn't feel cramped in any way. Definitely try Maple Ave if you're looking for something new!
(4)
David P.

It's tasty, it's odd, and it's sustainable, with food that's carefully poised between comfort and chic. There is spam on the menu. You can have American cheese with your burger. But truffles infuse other options. One well-steamed bok choi balances a duck confit spring roll. Long, tortured descriptions accompany the coffee menu. It's funky but well executed. The building is just what you'd expect to find in a strip mall. It used to be a frozen custard stand? A children's shoe store? It's cozy, easy to eavesdrop on the other diners. One waiter who knows his stuff efficiently serves everyone. Most interesting place I've eaten in and around 22102.
(4)
Ranjit K.

Over! Priced, Rated! Took my wife there for a birthday lunch. Service average at best. She ordered scallops - plate arrived with a hair in the food. The hosted took it away and replaced, I suspect they simply re plated and brought back. We didn't make a big deal as I didn't want to spoil the occasion. No apology, simply asked if they could bring her a salad while she waited. The dish was still on the bill at the end. Portions were small and prices out of line. $16 for a chicken sandwich, 21 for 3 scallops with a hair on the plate. The restaurant is very small and the seating is terrible. You can see into the kitchen and it isn't pleasant. Had high expectations - very disappointed. Though I called ahead and mentioned that we were celebrating a birthday - no one even acknowledged the fact. Food overall was just average. The accompaniment with the scallops was actually bad. Won't be returning and suggest others give it a pass!
(1)
Lowell I.

Four of us were excited to go as we have read good reviews and like the idea of a new restaurant in Vienna. We made reservations so waiting was not a problem and we didn't mind the very small dining room. Service was good and very friendly and prices were quite reasonable. Everything was good except, the food was just OK. The pork BBQ sandwhich was good but no better than bbq I can get at Wegmans or Whole Foods. My wife's gnocci dish was fine but consisted mostly of mushrooms. We ordered four deserts and results were mixed. The beigneits were good, the chocolate cake was quite ordinary and the funnel cakes were a disappointment when compared to the ones to be at at any fairground. We all liked the idea of this restaurant and would possibly give it another try, but no one left complimenting the food and eager to try their dish again.
(3)
BJ G.

I always wanted to try the restaurant that was in this building before Maple Ave Restaurant but it looked real dirty, empty and ghetto and my friends refused to go with me and then it shut down (surprise surprise). Well we saw it being remodeled and it finally opened and I gave it a shot last night. I really like the small atmosphere, it felt like I was at a private dinner party at someone's house. I like the beer selection which incluede Clipper City brew. No free refills on soda which is a bit of a rip-off though. We had the fried cauliflower for an appetizer and it was delicious. The sauce was very good, it was fun to eat. I had the mac and cheese for the entree which was a very small portion and a bit bland, towards the end I had to reach for the salt, I haven't done that in years. For dessert I had the funnel cake which was delicious. I can't wait to go back again and try some more of the menu!
(4)
Eric L.

Had a somewhat large group dinner here (~13 people) on a Saturday night. Since the restaurant probably seats around 25 people, it was nice that they could acommodate my party. To make things easier for the restaurant, we had subset of the menu to choose from ( potstickers, spanish dumplings, bulgogi, salmon, mochi, funnel cake). All of the food was well enjoyed at the table. Several of the staff joined in to celebrate the occasion so it was a pretty festive atmosphere In Summary, good solid food with fun, attentive service
(4)
Kelly H.

I think my expectation for this place was too high. I wasn't as impressed as I was hoping.. I give the chefs a round of applause for being creative and incorporating different things from different cuisine to create something new - that was very refreshing and not something that you come across often these days. The restaurant has a great local, neighborhood feel to it maybe because of its boutique size - and I really enjoyed it. The dishes were very well prepared, and I could tell that lots of experimenting, designing, and tasting went to creating the menu. I picked couple small dishes, and my sister chose a lamb chop dish - and we both enjoyed our food very much. The desert was the highlight of all though. We ordered a bitter sweet bread pudding - and it was excellent. Their coffee, tea selection is really not impressive. I think they could expand on that given that their desert is fantastic. In terms of price, it's not very cheap. BUT, reasonable. The total bill came about $55 for two, which isn't bad at all especially with such wonderful dishes. Definitely recommend this place if you are in a mood to try something new!
(4)
Dorothy D.

The good reviews lead us to maple ave, and I will definately recommend this place. The food is great, and has a homemade taste to it (I.e. Everything tasted fresh and "clean"). The three os us ordered shrimp and grits, beets salad, and the fried cauliflower from the small plates menu. For main plates, we got the spicy seafood noodles, pull pork sandwich, and a tomato dish with brie. Really like how the restaurant uses ingridients from local farms. The service was good. Not giving 5 stars because the restaurant layout seems a little strange.
(4)
Mitch S.

Just had dinner at the Maple Ave Restaurant. Don't let the appearance of the place from the outside sway you, once inside it's quite nice albeit very small. The service was excellent and the food was very tasty. We'll definitely be back!
(5)
Susan B.

Delicious fresh food. Menu on web was not updated. Went for lunch and selection was good although skewed toward some "heavy" foods if you are counting calories or watching carbs. The shrimp ceviche was delicious should be called a vegetable ceviche as it maybe had one shrimp but good none the less.
(4)
Jean S.

I really like this cute little restaurant despite having an awful parking lot and zero privacy from surrounding tables. I've been to MAR twice for brunch, and I wouldn't complain if they expanded the menu a bit. Their 6-course brunch tasting menu is definitely a good deal at $38 for two people. Did I love everything I ate? No, but even those dishes that were mediocre to my own palate were still solid, and I could see why others would enjoy them. I'll definitely be back for dinner.
(3)
AL K.

Hole in the wall by reservations only restaurant. Food are prepared with love and attention to details. Only 9 tables so reservation is a must. Can only accommodate up to party of 6. PArking can be tricky. Special lunch set menu for $20 +tax per person is a sweet deal. Choose between a small plate + main dish or main dish + sweet plate. Either way its a steal. Dinner set menu @ $35. Love this place and the friendly hostess. Thanks for the great service.
(4)
G S.

A best kept secret in Old Town Vienna. What this tiny 10 table restaurant lacks in size it makes up in extreme taste! The decor is not fancy I'm thinking that the saved all the excitement for your mouth. I recommend the lunch special or Monday night specisl. You will not go wrong with the muscles and seafood. Best I've had! Must have a reservation since this place is always packed.
(5)
Haimo L.

Went there on Saturday for brunch, ordered a PBLT, general experience was good but pork belly in a burger was a little weird to me. Tried other things ordered by my friends, those are all good though.
(4)
Henry M.

We went with friends and got the brunch and order of the chicken wings. It was excellent. Maple Ave has been our restaurant bucket list since Chef Ma and Shaina did a dinner for fundraiser at a friend's house. It did not disappoint! We'll be back.
(4)
Jini K.

Having lived in the 'burbs my entire life, I'm used to trekking out into the city for the more fancier meals I've had the pleasure to indulge in. Thankfully for my husband and I, Maple Avenue Restaurant is not only, practically in our backyard, but the quality of food and service is right up there with most of the fancier establishments in DC. As others have said, the restaurant is quaint, but very charming. If you happen to drive there, you'll want to bring the smallest car you own, because parking is as tight as can be! We arrived for dinner with a party of 3 on a Saturday night, and thankfully had made reservations in advance, as we witnessed a few other would-be patrons getting turned away for not having reservations. To start with, the cocktails are fantastic! I had the Audrey Hepburn and it might have been one of the best cocktails I've ever had...so delicious and lived up to the name!! The appetizers were also incredible. You have to order: Fried Green Tomatoes (best you'll ever have in this area), Crostini (trust me on this one), and all of the salads (all seasonal and very fresh). My husband and his brother are both carnivores so they orderd a few of the meat dishes as their entrees, and raved about them. Sadly for me, Maple Ave only has 1 vegetarian entree, which tends to be the same year-round: the risotto. Now, you should know, I'm not a huge risotto fan to begin with, so I would have be more than overwhelmed to love this dish. While it was a solid dish, it wasn't one that was very memorable or well flavored, but I did love the crostini that was served with it. I had to deduct a star for the simple fact that as talented as the chef at Maple Ave is, his inability to change the vegetarian dish on the menu to something other than risotto year-round, makes this place a step below the best, but still one that you should definitely try!
(4)
Nick L.

Sweet mother what a great meal... Like others are saying, this is a little hole in the wall of a location. Our table for 2 was a bit tight and RIGHT up against the window. We felt like we were eating outside. BUT, as soon as we had those creme fraiche wings all was forgiven! That sauce was otherworldly, I think I actually used my spoon to eat some of it. We also got mussels and the broth that accompanied them was a fantastic addition to the bread and sopping it up was very enjoyable. I ordered a duck rammen dish and my wife got the scallops with rissoto and basil ice cream. My rammen was pretty good, but my wife's dish was amazing. Like....I'd come here just for that amazing. I thought the contrast of hot and cold would turn me off, but the ice cold basil ice cream was an experience!! My wife said it's one of the best dishes she's ever had. I wish there was ONE more scallop on the plate, that's my only note. For desert we got the fried chocolate dumplings and both only thought they were okay. We both wished we ordered the bread pudding instead. We will be back and we're bringing friends this time!
(5)
K P.

Good but expected a little better. Would definitely come again for the baked mac and cheese and out of this world bittersweet chocolate bread pudding. I'm still dreaming of that dessert! The entrees that my husband and I had were ok. I ordered the oyster mushroom risotto and my husband had the saffron chicken dish. My risotto was overcooked. It didn't have the toothy bite that risotto should have. My husband's dish was ok but nothing special. It didn't taste of saffron at all. All in all, we would come back for the small plates and dessert.
(4)
Alida H.

4.5 stars. Great food, caring service (the waiter asked right off the bat if there were any special dietary needs or food allergies), and all in all a great and creative little establishment. Best shrimp and grits I've ever had. seriously. The unique blend of okra, venison blueberry sausage, spices, and plump tiger shrimp were perfectly coupled with smooth, creamy, and flavorful grits that really set the tone for a fantastic dinner. The steamed mussels were also brilliantly served in a thai-inspired coconut sauce with what I initially thought was bacon, but found to be Chinese sausage! What a pleasant and not to mention, delicious, surprise! The bone marrow plate was a tad bit over salted, however had a nice buttery texture that melts in your mouth, coupled with a side of refreshing parsley pickle relish that helps to balance out the flavor. And to top it all off, the chocolate dumpling dessert was to die for. I felt like I had gone to chocolate heaven, while scooping generous portions of vanilla ice cream to eat with each bite of the crispy shells filled with a warm, gooey, and sweet chocolate ganache filling. In the best way possible, I felt like I was eating a disassembled fried ice cream dessert! Another thing I enjoyed about this place was that they have a handmade scrapbook with their sweets and drink items, as well as extra pages in the back where their visitors may write comments! Adorable. This place is culinary mastery at its finest. And hey, the sangrias are pretty good too!
(4)
Mark S.

I took my wife here the day after Valentine's Day because we have heard so many great things about this restaurant. It's constantly in the Top 50/Best Restaurants by Washingtonian Magazine and other magazines. It is a "farm-to-table" restaurant so everything is fresh. The place is VERY small. There are no more than 10 tables in the restaurant (unless there are some in the back that I'm not aware of). There is parking behind the building, but also next door and across the street by Panera Bread. The service was excellent as there were about 3-4 servers and only 10 tables. The menu changes frequently so check their website to see what they are currently serving. For the appetizers/small plates, we got the wings and the mussels. The wings were for me and I loved them. Similar to buffalo wings with creamy sauce. My wife loved her mussels and I tried the sauce (I'm not a big seafood fan) with bread and it tasted really good. For the main entrees, my wife got the coconut rissoto with scallops and I got the curried chicken with papaya salad. My chicken was tender and crispy. Also the papaya salad was fresh and sour. My wife's rissoto was amazing. I should have ordered the rissoto and gave her my scallops. I really loved the rissoto. For the dessert we got the mochi flight. I believe they are made in house because the flavors are not the typical mochi flavors you find at grocery stores. Dessert was delicious as well. I really loved this restaurant and the atmosphere. I hate going to restaurants that you are elbow-room within the next table and that the atmosphere is so loud that you can't hear yourself talking. this is NOT the case here. quiet, romantic atmosphere. I love the big windows. You can dine and see the city of Vienna while you eat.
(5)
Maddy T.

We had the most wonderful time! The scallops on risotto and the shrimp on grits were so delicious and fresh and unique! This restaurant is a very special gem. I highly recommend it. The service was fabulous as well. We were served by Eric and he was just a delight. Awesome everything. Go right now.
(5)
John F.

Food here was very good. The place is super small, but we didn't wait long and the staff was very nice. Not the greatest ambiance, but if you can live with that, you will get a good meal.
(4)
Jens J.

This was going to be our only night in the area, so we chose to eat dinner in the immediate vicinity. Hence, we picked Maple Ave Restaurant. Reservations are recommended, but due to the eatery's svelte size, hard to attain. Worry not, there is another section in the restaurant's rear for which reservations are not required. The ambience at Maple Ave is rustic with a capital "R". Our server was super nice. I haven't been here in the Mid-Atlantic but for a few hours, yet I can say the vibe is different here; people seem less edgy and stressed than in the PacNW. The guidance provided to us was that two small plates were equivalent to one large plate - and that a lot of people order small plates to enjoy as tapas - which is what we did. The best dish, by far, was the roasted bone marrow. Yes, though $14, and only a little bit of marrow, it was fantastic! Contributing to its deliciousness was the accompanying salsa, made from pickle, shallots, parsley, lemon juice and olive oil. Yum! Before we dined, JP had the sangria ($9) and I went with a traditional martini ($9) made with Burnett's gin. The sangria was tasty and loaded with fruit, but for our second round, JP switched to a martini after tasting mine. I would characterize the rest of our dishes as very pleasing in appearance, well-crafted, if you will. But to be honest, the seasonings and spices didn't completely click with me. The mussels (served with crostinis) were fresh and the broth was very good ($9). However, there was bits of sausage in the broth that were particularly pungent. The sorrel salad ($9) was fresh and we liked its toasted goat cheese balls. But the salad was seasoned with something that was a cross between cinnamon and cloves, and it didn't really work for me. The baked mac ($12) was hefty, and we loved its bread crumb crust. The macaroni was a long and straight variety, not your typical mac & cheese macaroni. Its cheese cream was rather slippery. The mac & cheese was seasoned with possibly either marjoram or thyme. Overall, it was OK. The crÃ¨me fraiche wings ($9), made with chili paste and oyster sauce sounded very interesting. The drummette-style chicken pieces were blanketed in a creamy tomato-ey sauce that was decent and not too hot. This dish, like the mac & cheese was "OK". Overall we had a very decent experience.
(4)
Tony P.

One of my very favorite dining establishment in Vienna and apparently a hidden gem to all the locals as well. The menu is eclectic and offers modern interpretation and fusion of traditional ethnic fares. The seasonal specials offer a different enticement with every visit. The libations are limited but thoughtful. The establishment is small and cozy. Come early at 5pm if you want a seat without a long wait.
(5)
Hannah H.

I was really excited to finally try this restaurant out, as it has been on my list for quite some time. I liked the whole backstory about the owner, Chef Ma, who was an engineer, went to culinary school, and eventually opened up this restaurant. We came here for brunch (reservations highly recommended), and ordered the following: from the 'Brunch Plates,' we had the Pumpkin Buttermilk Pancakes (included a tiny cup of grade A Virginia maple syrup, diced/small-cubed/wonderfully-fried potato hash with sauteed red onions, and 2 slices of Applewood smoked bacon; the pumpkin pancakes were really good, and probably the best I've had - tasted real pumpkin throughout and no 'artificial flavors' that one is used to from the usual breakfast joints; the edges were nice and crispy, and it was cooked quite well on the griddle); from the 'Small Plates,' we had the Shrimp & Grits (3 tiger shrimp, deveined and with tails, little morsels of venison blueberry sausage, slices of okra, piquillo peppers, and stoneground grits (creamy and delicious)) and the 'Creme Fraiche Chicken Wings' (Kendall Farms creme fraiche, korean chili paste, oyster sauce, and scallions - not salty at all; the sauce was creamy and it had a hint of the gochujang; I asked for the wings to be extra well-done, and it was done perfectly - I loved the fact that they were small and had less meat!); and, from the 'Lunch Plates,' we had the 'Seared Scallops' (coconut scallion risotto, Kendall Farms creme fraiche, with a small scoop of basil ice cream - the scallops were wonderfully-cooked, but the risotto was just way too much (in portions and in terms of the ratio with the scallops). Our server, Jacqui, was very straightforward and efficient. The restaurant itself was small (I believe it only seats about 27 people); it was pretty busy for the morning, and people kept piling in. I would love to try them out for dinner as they have tasting menus. The parking can be quite a pain as it's a tight squeeze, and some people tend to just speed right in off of Maple. +Creme Fraiche Chicken Wings +Pumpkin Buttermilk Pancakes +Seared Scallops (easy on the risotto) +owned by Chef Ma
(4)
Shells W.

I was very impressed with this hidden gem in Vienna. The brunch was amazing and the staff was very friendly. Even though we didn't have a reservation they seated us in a table that was reserved for a later time. On Easter Sunday we didn't have to wait at all. I had the truffle eggs, salad, and potatoes. My what a treat in your mouth! I look forward to trying this place again.
(5)
Jen E.

Excellent food and service! Mussels were exquisite. Branzino cooked perfectly!! We will definitely return to this restaurant----probably the best meal we've had in Vienna.
(4)
Elaine P.

Small on size, big on taste. Don't let the small, unpretentious space turn you away. At Maple Ave. it is all about the food. Enjoyed a belated birthday celebration here with my family in December. I opted for a couple of small plates while everyone else in our party had regular plates. We shared dessert and the only item that didn't really "come together" for us was the lime pie with the marshmallow ... too sweet.
(4)
David K.

To All: My wife and I were searching for places to eat at the 1PM hour of New Years day. We drove to many places knowing that most places would be busy, but not crazy busy. However we were wrong. After exhausting all of our efforts we contacted The Maple Avenue Restaurant and made a reservation with Jacqui. She told us the kitchen was closing at 2PM. We were only 2 minutes away, which was not a problem. We walked in and were sat down as soon as we walked in the door by Jacqui. We were handed menus and they had small starter plates and breakfast and lunch items. My wife and I both had the venison omelete with sweet peppers and cheddar and home fries and mesculun salad. I ordered an Iced tea and my wife had pressed coffee. The food arrived in 15 minutes or so after ordering and let me tell you the food was extremely good. You have to be very careful when you cook Venison as it can be gamey if not cooked properly. It was very good and the home fries were crispy and in small cubes, the way they should be. My wife also commented that the pressed coffee was one of the best she has had. Overall our experience was wonderful and the service was very good. We plan on going back and trying some of their dinner options in the not to distant future. If you are in the neighborhood, try this restaurant, but do not forget to call ahead to make reservations. They have only 10 seats in the restaurant.
(4)
Kathleen W.

Maple ave is a cozy restaurant with a great atmosphere. While the restaurant is casual they offer quality dishes and many different options. It is fun to go with a few people and order a number of small plates to share. The wine and beer list has good options and usually offer a few local choices. The space is small so make sure you make a reservation; even during the week it is vital to get a reservation if you want to eat between the hours of 5:30 and 8:30.
(4)
Nolan S.

Love this place. My new favorite place in Vienna. Can't believe there isn't a line out the door! With such generic food across the street (Panera, ugh!) There is just no comparison. If you want made to order, delicious food, then this is the place. Just ten tables so it's intimate. My favorite small plate is the Muscles. My favorite main plate is the scallops with basil ice cream. Wow. Nicely done.
(5)
3Chicks A.

What a quaint little restraint with big flavored and creativity. Had the Scallops and enjoyed each as well as the risotto and the basil ice cream. Made a reservation for 5 , but did not think we needed it on a Thursday night. The beer batter fries were a tasty appetizer as were the mussels. Also had the bronzini with rice. The fish was served whole but was excellent even with picking out the bones. The rice was also excellent. Would definitely order it again! Desserts were delicious... We had chocolate dumplings and chocolate bread pudding! Really interesting place!
(5)
Naoko M.

Wow, a tiny restaurant with great service and delicious delicious foods. What more can you ask for? My co-worker took me here for dinner and man, am I glad he did. Though everything on the menu sounded scrumptious, we decided to get fried green tomatoes, the apple salad, and shrimp & grits to start. I had the scallops and he had the beef cheeks for entrees. The fried green tomatoes were awesome. I actually don't really know what green tomatoes taste like, but the perfectly crunchy panko coating and chili garlic aioli made this thing a hit! Just a touch of spice in the aioli to wake your mouth up. The apple salad was also very good. Nothing too fancy, but I thought the dressing on this was fabulous - roasted garlic had a nice background flavor and wasn't too overpowering. Overall a very light appetizer that I would definitely go for again. Honestly, it seemed to be a large enough portion that if I were to come back, I'd be willing to get it as my main entree! The shrimp & grits were also very good. The shrimp was nice and plump with just the right amount of shrimpy bite/texture to it. I didn't realize the dish came with okra so i was a little concerned at first when I was spooning some of it onto my plate because of the texture. Then I just realized it was okra "juice." My scallops. O.M.G. I love scallops and these are probably on my top 3 list. 5 delightful, well-seasoned scallops on top of a coconut risotto. The risotto was rich and creamy but not heavy. Perhaps the surprise of the evening was the scoop of basil ice cream in the middle of the dish. Again, I hadn't read the menu carefully so I was surprised, but it worked so well! Soft notes of basil mixed with my favorite coconut and was a great just slightly sweet contrast to the scallops. Amazing. Service was great - very friendly and attentive but not overly so. 3 small plates, 1 sangria, 2 entrees, and an order of crostini only set us back $120 including tax and tip. Belly full o' great foods, I would definitely come back again!
(5)
Keon D.

WHIP! WHAM! BAM! POW!! ...my mouth didn't know what hit it as I tasted the delightful creative combinations of flavors from the entrees at Maple Ave restaurant. A small cozy and simple looking restaurant (make reservations, there's only a few tables, or sit in their space at the back), I was surprised at how varied and daring their menu was. The menu is generally a huge list of thinking outside the box items. For appetizer I had the Steamed mussels in saffron coconut broth with sausage and crostinis. To sum it up in one word, Amazing! The coconut flavor was nicely sweet and the small bits of sausage added a nice twist on the mussels. I thoroughly enjoyed sopping up my crostinis in the delicious sauce. The portion size is not too bad so if you weren't too hungry you might be able to make this a meal. For dinner I had the seared scallops with coconut scallion risotto and basil ice cream, say whaaaat? The scallops were nicely seared and the risotto was probably the tastiest risotto I've had in a while. I may be a bit biased since I'm a sucker for coconut but it was really good. I was most curious about how the ice cream would go with the meal but the small dollop of ice cream in the middle added a nice sweetness to everything. I wouldn't have thought to try this but it went over very well. For dessert I tried the chocolate dumplings. This was one thing that I'd say was mainly just 'ok'. It basically was like chocolate inside of a wonton that was fried. Not bad, not amazing. I probably would go with another choice if I was back here. Highly recommend!
(5)
Sara W.

Around the corner favorite from my office. It is a little hidden in the corner of the shopping center, but don't let that turn you off. The food is always good but make sure you have time to enjoy and relax your meal as service is pleasant but a little on the slow side. The food is always fresh and they have seasonal rotations and great specials depending on what is in season. I elected for the ahi tuna BLT with a basil aioli sauce. Our server recommended it without the bun, which I agreed to...it was brought with the bun anyway. That was alright since it was actually tastier and easier to eat with it. I did have to send the bacon back to have it cooked more since it was chewy and I like really crispy bacon. Our server was more than happy to do so and quickly returned it. The atmosphere is casual with lots of dark cherry wood and definitely a more mature crowd most of the time. Great for a lunch business meeting. I recommend reservations on a weekend but dinner during the week and lunch I don't think it is necessary. Be sure to try to grown up grilled cheese and tomato soup! If you are in Vienna, you can't go wrong here.
(4)
Rob L.

This place rocks my world! Went there with a friend last night. Started with the Thai Okra. Absolutely the best okra I've ever had. Better than mine! Followed that with the whole bronzini, which was to-die-for. I even ate the skin, which I never do. After that, our waitress asked if we wanted dessert. And, yeah, we had another helping of the Thai Okra. It was THAT good. :) Thinking about going? Stop thinking, make a reservation and go. :)
(5)
Tony G.

They need a bigger place, but it's good. Very different (better) than the massive chain restaurants surrounding them.
(4)
Juan Pablo G.

Excellent food. New spin to breakfast food. Would definitely recommend it. Make reservations or you will have to wait.
(4)
Christine U.

Maple Ave is amazing. I've been there three times, and eagerly waiting to return for another incredible experience. The staff is really friendly and knowledgable about their dishes. The menu is limited, I really like that because it shows how much focus and dedication they put into their fresh dishes.
(5)
Callie M.

I'll start out by reiterating what so many others have already stated - this place is tiny, so you really need a reservation. The staff is very nice and accommodating, so kudos to them. The food is delicious! The lunch special is a bargain at $20! The first time I went, my friend and I each ordered a small plate and a main plate. The portions are huge, so the next time one of us ordered a small and a main and the other a main and dessert. We then shared the small plate and the dessert. The mussels are very good, and the sauce is delicious with bread. The creme fraiche wings are nothing short of amazing! I'm pretty sure my eyes rolled back into their sockets while eating the wings. I could make a meal of them. The scallop risotto is excellent, and the scallops were cooked perfectly. We were looking forward to trying the chocolate dumplings, but they were disappointing. The dough was tough and the flavor was bland. I really like this restaurant, but the reason for knocking a star is the condition of the dining room. It's a bit tattered, which there is really no excuse for.
(4)
Toulaphone C.

Yum, yum, yum. Maple Ave has some great food with nice service. Get the mussels and chicken wings! The mussels included Chinese sausage cut into bits and the wings' sauce tasted a bit peanut buttery. I tried bone marrow for the first time and loved it. WOW! They serve it with crostini so you aren't overwhelmed with the heaviness of the marrow. I think it was the chef's wife who came over to talk to us and see how we were doing. I told her I'd never had bone marrow served like that before and we got into a long(ish) conversation about their decision to put it on the menu. Fantastic/funny lady. Unique dishes and would love to go back. Don't forget to make a reservation!
(5)
Steve B.

I confess, I've eaten here many times for many years and I love this place. The Chef Tim Ma and the manager (his wife) Joey are a great team. It's hard to pick favorites off the menu but for small plates try the fried okra or the mussels. The latest addition of chicken liver pate on toast points is delish but it could use less jam only because I'm a messy eater. For the large plates, my all time favorite is the seared scallops in coconut risotto with basil ice cream...I'd sell t - shirts with Tim's face on it just because he made this dish. But a close 2nd is the duck comfit with Brussels sprouts. OH HELL JUST GO THERE AND EAT, IT'S ALL GREAT. BTW I've also eaten at there new place Water and Wall in Arlington and it is a continuation of the same great quality of food and service. ENJOY.
(5)
Todd Y.

Great little place in Vienna. Dropped by on a whim. Great clams. Great service. Staff were friendly and helpful with the menu.
(4)
Mohammed K.

I went there with friends for their Sunday brunch. What you already know is that that the restaurant is small and has limited seating. So you better make a reservation, also it could be difficult to seat group bigger than 6. That said that menu that the chef produces is awesome, great creative and eclectic dishes. The kind of dishes that I usually refer to as "party in my mouth" :) I always enjoy when chefs introduce you to new food combinations that you never thought of together, you just have to trust them and enjoy. We shared two appetizers and of course each had a main dish. I managed to have a taste of everyones dishes and here's my opinion. Thai okra:This dish was finished before you could say Okra! It was addictive, my friend called it Okra pop corn, very nice crunchy and delicious. Steamed PEI mussels: Shared this dish for the table. we all enjoyed it specially the broth that came with. Venison omelette: The special flavor in this one is that the venison blueberry sausage. What a great idea, gives great flavor and a twist on the usual omelets we have at brunches in other places. Seared scallops: Risotto with Basil Ice Cream!!! need I say more. I didn't have the courage to order it but my friend did, and boy am I glad she did. Rich, delicious and interesting dish. Finally the staff were equally pleasant and welcoming and very patient explaining all those funky dishes. So if you are in the Tyson's area and want to go somewhere entertaining, interesting and local Maple ave Restaurant is the place to go. We'll definitely be back to explore Maple ave restaurant's treasures.
(5)
Faheem R.

Summary: Tiny, overlooked place on 123 in Vienna that serves great food Food: Went for weekend brunch and started with the Thai Okra which was fantastic. The only recommendation I have is to eat it quickly if you add the sauce to the okra, because soggy okra is not pleasant to put in one's mouth. I had the Panko chicken Sandwich which was really good. My only issue was the truffle mayo was overwhelming so I had to scrape a lot of it off. I'm definitely interested in visiting again for dinner. Service: The server was excellent - made solid recommendations (such as the Thai Okra) and answered our detailed questions about the food. Ambiance: The restaurant is tiny, but it also has a very cozy feel rather than cramped. Wait time: None - we made reservations. Miscellaneous observations: This place is tiny and it is absolutely necessary to make a reservation well in advance.
(4)
Flora W.

Mildly disappointed about the 6 course Brunch for two. I only liked the first Egg course. It was buttery and fluffy. The rest of brunch was mediocre. And not worth the price. Will not be ordering that again.
(2)
Jack K.

During my last trip to Virginia, I got to try this place. I love these small and classy unique restaurants. The downside of these type of places is that usually their food is subpar, but Maple Ave had great food. Their diversity of menu made me happy. No more picking the same dish at every restaurant. The seared scallops were delicious. Yummmmm. It came on top of risotto that was cooked to perfection. Yay to unique small restaurants that serve a intriguing diverse menu!
(5)
Daniel A.

The dining room is decorated like Minimalist...Not much on the walls and windows around the front and sides of dining room. It's an old ice cream shop so it's a very small room (3 x 4 tops and 7-8 x 2 top). I think it seats a max of 30 and while reservations aren't necessary, it's tough for more than 2 people to get a table so we got a reservation. The menu here is Seasonal/monthly mainly American with Asian influences. The spicy Burmese salad had a nice delicate kick to it but wasn't overly spicy. It was a nice mix of sliced / pulled white meat chicken and cucumber slices to offset the cilantro chili sauce. I'd go back for The shrimp and grits with venison blueberry sausage was INCREDIBLE
(4)
Jason B.

A tiny bit on the pricey side, but it solidifies the saying of "you get what you pay for". I had the panko crusted chicken sandwich for lunch. It was so good that I was sad when I had finished it.
(5)
Courtney S.

Excellent dinner. The ramen broth was thick and really tasty. The service was good. Maybe not the best for children due to the tight quarters and small tables.
(4)
Kristina P.

I love Maple Ave Restaurant! Chef Tim is very accommodating especially to someone who has severe food allergies. It may be a small place but the service and food are awesome. You definitely need to make a reservation and they book up quickly! I have a bad food allergy to ALL fish and ALL nuts. We always type it into the reservation online and this place actually reads it. I've been to places where they are surprised to hear of my allergy even though we wrote it down on the reservation. Not Maple Ave! Not only does the hostess acknowledge the allergies but the waitstaff knows before coming to greet the table. They always check with the Chef to make sure I can have what I ordered and to make sure he knows of my allergies for cross contamination purposes. Being allergic to fish is tough because it usually means I can't have anything fried because most restaurants fry their french fries and whatnot in the same oil as they fry their fish. Maple Avenue doesn't do that so I'm able to eat their amazing Beer Battered French Fries. The fries have a crispy outer texture and a hot, soft center. They are so good! I loved the Moroccan Chicken and wished they still had it on the menu! It was a Boneless chicken leg with Morrocan spices served with pearl cous cous and a cool saffron sauce (AMAZING! ). Since then, they have switched up their menu and now I get the Beer Braised Beef Cheek which is amazingly tender and pairs nicely with the Sweet Potato Puree and sauce. For dessert, I recommend the Chocolate Dumplings or Funnel Cake served with vanilla ice cream. You won't be disappointed! Also, they make French-Pressed Coffee which is from the local Cafe Amouri (if you're familiar with the Vienna area). I usually can't have coffee because it upsets my stomach. However, Maple Ave coffee is different. It doesn't make me feel sick and I barely need any sugar for it. So smooth and delicious. As you can see, I definitely recommend this place! We go here once a month! Bravo, Maple Ave Restaurant!
(5)
Tien T.

Very small restaurant with few seatings. Our server was very friendly was always checking up on us. We ordered the mussels with Chinese sausage, which was just okay for me. But the butter crostini that came with it was so crispy and flavorful. I ordered the fried okra appetizer, which was a huge disappointment. They were small and tasted very burnt to me, even when doused in all the sauce. The shrimp and grits was delicious though. I will come back to try this place again and give it a second shot.
(3)
Annie D.

Friends had told us about this restaurant, so when we had to go to Vienna today, we had brunch there. It was wonderful. We had the brunch for two, which consisted of 6 courses, every one perfect. I can't say enough good things about this place.....very small and reservations are definitely necessary.
(5)
Katie S.

Over priced. Service is decent, nothing special. The waitress was friendly. No upscale service though. Food was good but way over priced. I got a chicken sandwich. A chicken sandwich for 16 bucks was alittle much. Most small plates in dc are around 4-8 bucks. Most small plates here are 10-12. Quality of the food is above average, but not The highest standards. Many things are pre-made. Decor is nothing to be desired. Seating is very limited so 10 parties will fill up the restaurant. The food is good and unique, but for The price, not a gonna be a regular. Would have received 4 stars if not for the price.
(3)
Lauren Y.

Deeeeeeelicious. Many restaurants have attempted to perfect the art of fusion cuisine and many have failed, but not Maple Ave Restaurant! I almost don't want to write a good review to this place so I can get a seat here since the restaurant is quite small, but since you can make reservations online, it should be okay. We chose to come to this place because I was meeting up a cousin from VA and this area was our halfway point, and it was the listed restaurant on the 2013 Washingtonian Top 100. We ordered the creme fraiche Korean wings to start and then the scallops, beef cheeks and the special of the day, a duck dish. All were very delicious. The balance of flavors were perfect and so were the size. Wings - Not too spicy. The creme fraiche really toned down the spicy kick. Perfecto. Beef Cheeks - Very tender. No knife required. It reminded us of the beef brisket in Taiwanese Beef Noodle. Must be the star anise flavor. This dish was accompanied by a sweet and buttery sweet potato puree and assorted leafy greens which tasted like micro-kale, if there is that sort of thing. Seared Scallops - BEST dish of all, $22 for 5 large perfectly seared scallops on a bed of, get this, coconut risotto with, ..wait for it ... basil ice cream in the middle! Who would've thought. Crunchy seared scallop top with a pillowy soft middle on a bed of warm sweet coconut risotto and then cool basil creamy ice cream! Yea, *drool Duck Special - I only had a small piece of this since my husband ate the dish pretty quickly. The duck was not too rare, not too done. Nice crispy skin with a thin layer of fat and tender meat. nomz For dessert, even though we were stuffed, we got the bread pudding and funnel cakes. Funnel cakes were fresh and hot. Fresh fried not refried like other establishments served with a side of vanilla ice cream. The bread pudding was dense but soft at the same time. Not much rum flavor but still buttery good. It is a small and intimate restaurant with a few waitstaff, who were very attentive. Not once was my water glass empty. It is a great place for small parties, for people who want to catch up and can hear each other while talking. Small parking lot right next to the restaurant makes it even more awesome. Will def return. Heard there's a great brunch.
(4)
Xinyi T.

I came to maple ave restaurant for my anniversary with my husband. We heard great things about the restaurant and always wanted to try it out. The restaurant was small and cute. It's great for intimate dinners. The menu was very simple and small and our waiter was very informative about what people normally like and gave great recommendations. We got 3 small plates, 1 entree and 2 deserts to share. The food was amazing! The bone marrow was amazing. I was worried that the greasiness of the bone marrow would be too overpowering but it wasn't. The chicken wings were very good and the Thai okra were flavored perfectly. For entree, we got the sea scallop. I normally don't like coconut flavored food. The waiter ensured me that the coconut flavor would be very light and he was right! The basil ice cream goes amazingly with everything! It was definitely a very nice addition to the dish. Moving on to desert, I fell in love with the bittersweet chocolate bread pudding! For those who don't enjoy things too sweet, this dish is just perfect! The bread pudding is crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. I loved my experience at maple ave. I can't wait to come back again and try everything else.
(5)
Reed B.

Brunch is great. People from Korea or Hawaii should be happy to find Spam, eggs, and kimchi are the star dish on the menu. The scrambled eggs were perfectly moist, fluffy, and flavored with bits of Chinese sausage. The cabbage kimchi was seasoned well and lacked that out-of-the jar flavor you get at most NOVA restaurants. There was also a nice scoop of rice to complete the meal. My only negative comment would be that you only get one small slice of grilled Spam. The crÃ¨me-fraiche chili wings make for a perfect appetizer. The chilis do not overpower the flavor of the chicken and the cream crÃ¨me-fraiche gives them a nice texture. The chocolate dumplings are a great desert and reminded me of mini chocolate lava cakes. I will definitely come back to try the dinner menu.
(4)
Mike W.

Heard great things about this place from friends, so the GF and I made a reservation for Sunday night. The restaurant was small and consequently kind of cramped, especially since we were given a table in the corner. However, the service was excellent and the food was delectable. We decided to share only one main course and order more small plates so we can try more things. The menu had pages in the back so customers can write notes to future diners, which was cute, but I'm not sure if this was something they just started doing since there were only 2 messages in ours. For the food: Roasted bone marrow 3.5/5 If you've ever had roasted bone marrow, you know how rich and decadent it is. I personally love roasted marrow, but my GF thought it was a bit too rich. For one order, we got 3 half-pieces of bone and 3 crostinis. I think more crostinis would have helped since you can spread the richness out a bit more. One of the bones also had very little morrow because of the way it was cut, which was disappointing. Shrimp and grits 4/5 Grits were cooked just right, shrimp was juicy and flavorful, the little bits of okra and sausage in the grits added a nice variety of flavor and texture. Steamed PEI mussels 4.5/5 Can't really go wrong with steamed mussels. This was also served with crostinis, although we used some of it for the bone marrow instead. The chinese sausage in the sauce was something I've never had for steamed mussels, but they were delicious and added a good flavor. Seared scallops 5/5 This was the best dish of the night for both of us, by far. The scallops were seared to perfection, and the coconut risotto and the basil ice cream added a great contrast in both temperature and texture to the dish. This is a dish that I will be dreaming about for years to come. Chocolate dumplings 4/5 Warm chocolate ganache in a fried pastry shell, served with vanilla ice cream. There is no part of that sentence that I do not like. Only downside is that it was much better with a glass of milk, but a glass of milk is $3. Overall, the meal came out to about $80 with tax, so it's certainly not somewhere most people would go on a regular basis, but for special occasions, you will find few places in the area for a better meal. I would rate the meal a 4.5/5, but I rounded up because the seared scallops were just so good.
(5)
Drew V.

The experience I had here was amazing. They provided us with an amazing anniversary dinner. They even went out of their way to write "Happy Anniversary" in chocolate for our bread pudding dessert. What other place does something as awesome as that? The service is very warm and welcoming, especially the hostess. The waitress was very funny when helping us make selections on the menu. We both ordered the braised beef cheek with crostinis on the side. It was all excellent, including the combination of the sweet potato puree and beef. They were genius in the design for that one. The price in terms of what we received was definitely reasonable. This place is not inexpensive, but if you are willing to shell out more, it is definitely worth it. One last piece of advice: you will definitely want to make a reservation for this place because of the limited seating. Usually a day in advance is alright, but if it's for a Friday night or Saturday night (typically busy nights), you may want to look almost a week in advance. Plan well my friends!
(5)
Corey B.

Normally I describe what entree I ordered and recommend it to future patrons. Being that we tried almost everything on the menu excluding dessert, I'm going to say don't hold back and order to your hearts desire. You can't go wrong. In closing, The Thai okra was awesome. The only negative was the tight quarters. It only takes one loud talker and the orchestra begins to play...off key
(4)
Christiane T.

Everything here is so good. The shrimp and grits and seared scallops with coconut risotto were very rich and creamy. The beef cheek was super tender, probably slow cooked - but delicious! Definitely going to come back. The restaurant is super small, though. There are only 10 tables, so a reservation is a must.
(5)
Maricar V.

everyone should try maple avenue restaurant at least once! what a great experience.... the food was ah-ma-zing!!! yes it is pricey, but the food is so worth it! its fresh, cooked well, has unique flavors... and are all really well thought out. at our table: small plates (these small plates are very generous!) - okra - mac and cheese - beet salad main - beef cheek - scallops - duck leg - bread pudding - chocolate dumplings this winter menu was just great! i know they switch out their menu according to season. the mac and cheese was so creamy but not overwhelming rich like most places. it kind of just melts in the mouth. the okra was definitely interesting and curiously delicious. its cut into small pieces, and drizzled with a fish sauce base broth. sounds weird but believe me its unique and so good! the beef cheek just falls off the fork. no knife needed with this dish! its rich with flavor and was a hearty serving. the best dish at our table was the duck. hands down. it was tender, not gamy, and was very very moist! soo good! skip the chocolate dumplings, concentrate on the bread pudding... the table next to us had the mocci and that looked really good. will definitely be back!
(4)
Rod T.

Top notch food. Went there for my wife's birthday and had a great time. Excellent service and the beer battered fries are like nothing you've had before. Their sea food is fantastic and amazingly fresh.
(5)
Mangala M.

Yes 5 stars. Even though I'm on a non-dairy diet (temporarily) this place blew me away. DH and I stopped in for Sunday brunch with my 3 month old daughter in tow. First off I definitely do not recommend bringing your child here for dinner and possibly only for brunch if the are slow. It's a super tiny restaurant (I counted 12 tables) and has the potential to get really noisy. Luckily it wasn't too busy when we went so it left plently of room for baby. Anyways back to the food.... There were only two items on their menu that I could eat (bummer!) but they were both amazing! The thai okra appetizer and steamed PEI mussels. Wow both were super tasty. DH enjoyed his pork belly quite a lot. I can't wait to come back here for dinner once I'm off my non-dairy diet!
(5)
Grace K.

Picked this restaurant pretty last minute on a Saturday afternoon. Me and my boyfriend really wanted to eat out and try something new and after reading some great reviews we decided to try it out instead of venturing into DC for an overpriced often unsatisfying meal, as is our usual routine. The restaurant itself is pretty small--there were no reservations left for when we wanted to eat, but the hostess informed us that there was a back room with first-come first-serve tables that opened at 6pm. We got there right at 6 and were the first to be seated in a cozy, enclosed back porch with high tables and a bar. The food was amazing. It completely blew my expectations out of the water. My boyfriend and I shared the mussels and the creme fraiche wings to start and both were great. The wings were so perfect--I hadn't realized I had never had a truly good wing until I had these. They were crispy and tender, the perfect size and not too messy. For our main courses we had the Duck and the Scallops. Both were phenomenal. The way they served the scallops was quite unique--on top of coconut risotto with homemade basil ice cream. At first I was a little skeptical of the ice cream part, but it really made the dish and enhanced the risotto. The crispy glazed duck was also really good!!! For dessert we shared the chocolate dumplings, which were also amazing--just wish there were more of them!! This was a really superb and satisfying meal. The portions were great, I left completely full and really happy with having chosen Maple Ave. I will definitely be back to try again!!
(5)
sara r.

Great lunch special! Small, cozy place so make sure you have a reservation. Their steamed PEI mussels are amazing with yummy saffron coconut broth. The thai okra is also very delicious. The panko chicken sandwich is pretty good and a nice sized portion. But of course, I had to try the seared scallops. It came with a coconut scallion risotto and basil ice cream. That's right, basil ice cream. I was really intrigued by this so I had to order. The scallops were delicious and the risotto was very tasty. The basil ice cream melted nicely into risotto. Very interesting and I would have it again, although it is a bit rich.
(5)
Anna L.

I had been wanting to try Maple Avenue for some time and finally got my chance with friends this past Saturday night. We made reservations about three weeks in advance and I would recommend you do if you plan to dine here. The restaurant is small with probably 12 tables in the main dining area. There is another small dining area in the back of the restaurant but it appeared to be even more casual and screened in rather than enclosed. Driving past, Maple Avenue does not look like much more than a divey diner. There is nothing attractive about this building and if not for Yelp, we would probably never have stopped in. The building looks like it once was a Krispy Kreme, but we were told by our server that this was the original location of Anita's. Inside there are small granite top tables and chairs - no fussy tablecloths - just simple and clean. The food is what stands out here. The menu is interesting and changes frequently - check the website as they keep menus updated there. We started with some small plates, shrimp and grits, mussels and Thai okra. They were all good, but I was surprised the Thai okra was my favorite. I've never had okra before and to be honest it never really appealed to me so much so that I resisted trying this dish. I am so glad I did - tender caramelized okra in a garlic lime chili sauce with scallions was delicious! The mussels were also quite tasty - the crostini were delicious dipped into the broth which had just a hint of spice from the Thai chili. Of the appetizers, shrimp and grits was probably my least favorite. Three tiger shrimp atop tender grits were just not quite as flavorful as I would have liked. For our entrees we chose the seared scallops, Moroccan chicken and soft shell crab. I am not a fan of soft shell crab so I declined tasting that dish. My friend enjoyed it quite a bit - just not for me. My husband's Moroccan chicken was so good - my favorite entrÃ©e of the night. Crispy, well flavored skin on a boneless chicken leg with a saffron sauce, roasted vegetables and couscous. I would order this dish next time. My dish featured four decent sized seared scallops on top of coconut risotto with a scoop of basil ice cream. The basil ice cream melted into the risotto resulting in a super creamy tasty dish. Scallops were fresh and had a lot of flavor as well - nothing like the Moroccan chicken, but delicious nonetheless. For dessert, we chose the chocolate dumplings. How can anyone say no to chocolate dumplings. They were fried just right - crispy on the outside with chocolate oozing out in every bite. I ordered coffee and Baileys to end my meal and was pleasantly surprised when they brought me a French press. Maple Avenue Restaurant is a wonderful gem in Vienna. I hear the brunch is quite good as well and am looking forward to giving that a try too. My experience here proves you just can't judge a book by its cover. Service was spot on all night and I thought prices were reasonable considering all the food we ordered. I will caution if you are a big eater, you definitely will find the entrees small. I almost finished my dish and that never happens when I am eating out. Love that they try to source most of their foods from local farms!
(5)
Leslie J.

I finally had brunch at MAR. As per usual, food and service were consistently top-notch. They were able to accommodate our impromptu walk-in. The wait was under 20 minutes, which let us have just enough time to venture the town of Vienna and grab some local coffee at one of the mom and pop shops nearby. We had their Brunch for Two, which is a six-course tasting menu for $38. It offered just the right portions and savory bites. This is what we had: Egg - truffled scrambled eggs, bacon -- Sounds typical right? Wait, until you try it. The truffle in the eggs makes all the difference and the crispiness of the bacon without any of the oily taste was unbelievably satisfying. I don't think I could go back to eating plain eggs and bacon again. Salad - apple salad, mesclun, blue cheese, spiced walnuts, pickled red onion, cider vinaigrette Crepe - mushroom duxelle, gruyere cheese Side - fried green tomatoes, chili garlic aioli, sauteed greens -- crunchy on the outside and the green tomatoes were extra fresh and snappy! the aioli not overdone and tomatoes not doused in sauce (A+) Lunch - baked mac, gruyere mornay, fresh fusili -- I love how they neatly pack the fusili in the serving dish and how al dente it was. The gruyere leads me to believe that it's made by angels in heaven. It's that immaculately good! The seasoned breadcrumbs generously dashed atop makes this particular dish reach its absolute glory and potential. Dessert - belgian waffle, nutella, vanilla bean ice cream -- Lastly, who doesn't love nutella? I can't stress my dining experiences at MAR enough. Straight comfort food at its best. See pics.
(5)
Charlie L.

Came here for brunch on a Sunday with my boyfriend because my co-workers rave about how good their brunch is here. I ordered the eggs w/ kimchi brunch plate and my boyfriend got the venison omelette. Both plates were "Ok", nothing special at all. A bit disappointed in their food but maybe we didn't get the popular dishes that are actually good?...I don't know. It is a little hole in the wall restaurant. Maybe about 8 small tables? So make sure to make a reservation because it was busy. The reason I am giving it 4 stars instead of 3 is because of our dessert. We got the mochi flight....and omg, it was sooooooo good! Now I can't eat frozen mochis from the grocery store because it won't compare to the mochi they make here. I might just come back here for the mochi flight :)
(4)
Glenn W.

Let us not beat around the bush, as they say. This place is a dump. With terrible parking and leaky windows and old carpeting and no attempt at charm. With incredibly unique and delicious food. I ate this Thai Okra app that's the coolest thing I've eaten in a long time. Sliced okra, marinated in a thai concoction (tastes like your classic fish sauce + lime juice + garlic setup) and then pan fried and served in a canoe. It was actually a little too salty (!) -- but I tried making it at home with some success. Because of the intense flavor it works better as a garnish on some kind of weird Asian-inspired gumbo. Just go with it.
(4)
Sarah C.

This is one of my favorite lunch spots! Fresh, seasonal, farm to table food on an ever changing menu. The menu is small, but always has good stuff. And now they have this 2-course lunch deal for $20. The seared scallops with coconut scallion risotto and basil ice cream is one of my favorite things ever. Perfect flavors, and the ice cream melting over the risotto is awesome. I loved the panko chicken sandwich too (it's no longer there), which was juicy and crispy with perfect fries and a delicious truffle mayo. The mac and cheese is great, as is the bread pudding and chocolate dumplings, I had a disappointing brunch experience - I went for the tasting menu but found out upon arrival that the chef was gone and they weren't doing it that day. The dish that I had (truffle eggs) just wasn't that great. They do have bottomless mimosas though. Minus one star for the crappy building with no decor/mood and the huge windows that make me feel like I'm baking/getting a sunburn during lunchtime. This place is TINY - so reservations are pretty necessary for dinner, but for lunch you should be mostly okay. Ask if they can seat you even if all the tables have "reserved" signs on them. I have been seated numerous times this way and the place never fills up (so I don't know why they put all those little signs out). Parking in the tiny driveway that is somehow supposed to accommodate 2-way traffic is a nightmare so I park across the street at Magruder's or in the shopping center with Papa John's, Plaka, etc... and walk over.
(4)
Katherine L.

After seeing a friend's post on Instagram about Maple Avenue Restaurant my parents and I decided we needed to try it. After an unsuccessful attempt a few weeks ago, we got the chance to try it this evening. It certainly exceeded our expectations. My parents who live nearby certainly have decided they will need to come back soon and my boyfriend and I will definitely be adding this to our list of must eat restaurants when we are home for visits. We ordered three small plates: Thai okra, chicken liver pÃ¢tÃ©, and the roasted bone marrow. All were delicious! The Thai okra seemed to be the favorite of the table, while I preferred the pÃ¢tÃ©, but that could be due to my weakness for pÃ¢tÃ©. The Thai okra was flavorful and a great portion to share between the four of us. The pÃ¢tÃ© was smooth and served with the warm crostini, delicious. The bone marrow was something we've never tried before but we definitely enjoyed it. Now onto the entrees: pan seared sweetbreads, whole Bronzini, bacon wrapped rabbit, and their new item added last night, curried beef cheeks! All was delicious, I think the high points were definitely the Bronzini and beef cheeks. The Bronzini portion was huge, definitely can be shared. It was nice to try a fish we've never had before, especially being the foodies that I consider our family to be. The beef cheeks were very tender and the sauce mixed with the jasmine rice was delicious. I will definitely be ordering that next time we visit. The sweetbreads were well prepared and the sauce complimented it well. The rabbit was tender and definitely filling. Finally we tried the chocolate dumplings based on the yelp reviews we've read. Very delicious. All and all we were very impressed by the restaurant and we definitely plan on returning soon. Also our waiter was great, Ricardo, he knew the menu well and checked on us just the right amount. 5 stars for sure! :)
(5)
Mark S.

I can certainly see why people like Maple Ave. Unfortunately, I didn't have the stellar experience as others. However, don't forget that 3 stars is still "A-ok" by Yelp standards. We started with the baked mac and cheese which is a solid 4.5/5 stars. Much lighter than you'd expect, and that is a good thing. We also started with seared crostinis which I would conservatively give 437/5 stars. So good. I could eat a pile. We then had the beef cheek and the morrocan chicken. The beef cheek was very well cooked, but lacked a certain flavor. I also did not love the sweet potato puree. The sautÃ©ed onions were quite good. As for the morrocan chicken, it was disappointing. Dry and overcooked. The cous cous helped, but didn't drive it home. I am more than willing to accept that the chef just missed, so I certainly am not going to trash the dish.
(3)
Jeannie L.

The best shrimp and grits!!!!! I would love if they had better parking however it is in Vienna ! Great food .. We will be back, ! Btw the pancakes are awesome my husband is a hard critic on pancakes .. And he loved them,!
(4)
Emily P.

Wow, what a gem! Don't think it's hidden because of all the raving reviews. Dined here with two other girl friends, and we enjoyed all the small plates and entrees. Was very curious about the Latin American/Asian twist to the menu. Small plates: got fries, mussels (very fresh and tasty sauce), and these Korean chicken wings. Entrees: highly recommend the scallops dish! Four large-sized scallops in a creamy risotto with a center of basil ice cream (creative and delicious). Friend ordered the beef cheek entree so I sampled that as well-so tender! We were quite stuffed but somehow managed to engulf the yummy desserts-chocolate dumplings (dumplings stuffed with oozing chocolate sauce) and a mochi sampler of strawberry, chocolate mint, and others. The mochi was okay. Few things about this place: it's really small and fills up quickly so make a reservation. The parking is also a bit of a cramped space so it's challenging getting out. But despite all that, it was a winning dining experience!
(5)
John W.

For Gods sake....don't tell anyone about this place...you can't get in now There are very, very few times when you go into a eaterie in the wasteland that is NOVA and are blown away...this is one of the few places. The service, staff and food are 5 star..... If I remember this was the Anita's location....so it is very, very small...30 seater maybe.....it is what it is....... I had the best wings ever here....don't know how they do it..but they are perfect...mussels...perfect....beef jewels...perfect....wine half price ...perfect. This place gives me hope for the future...also dined at the Arlington location....good but I like the Vienna location better Remember don't tell anybody.......
(5)
Chau P.

3 People - Saturday 7:00 p.m. 1. Ambiance: I dislike the small setting along with the sounds that can be amplified throughout the room, because that's exactly what happened when another group that sat at the middle table were drunkards who kept scream talking to each other. Not somewhere you would take a date, but definitely a place for those who want to try delicious food. 2. Chicken wings Review: Crispy with a sweet orange sauce on top. Bone Marrow & Bread Review: Restaurants usually skimp out on bone marrows but there was so much of it! I was in heaven! Their slice of bread is crispy and very aromatic due to an oil spread. Mussels w/ Curry Sauce Review: These mussels were marinated in curry sauce and it was so soft that it melts in your mouth. It had chinese sausages added on top, which gave it a sweet flavor. Seared Scallops with Ice Cream on Risotto Review: The ice cream adds a nice creamy touch to the risotto. The scallops were good, but i wish it was a little bigger. To me, the scallops were baby size. The risotto filled me up, but I was a little disappointed in the scallops. Overall, the flavoring was good. Moroccan Chicken Review: I thought the name was boring - chicken. There was nothing boring about this dish! I love that the meat was tender underneath the crispiness of the skin. Very well marinated. Duck Slice Review: I am not too crazy about ducks and this dish didn't impress me much nor changed my mind. It was chewy and bland. 3. Service: Our waitress was so entertaining and nice. She was very attentive and apologized for the other table's lack of manner. She was knowledgeable of the menu and gave us an overview of most of the items. 4. Costs: For the lack of a nice/relaxing ambiance, I thought the price was a little steep; however, I'm a fan of their fusion style food and my stomach was so happy that it justified the price. 5. Overall Experience: When we could discern the food, we knew it would be a good dinner. Despite the voluble throng across from us, our dinner wasn't a fiasco and our food was laudable. Side Notes: We didn't get to try the soft shell crabs. I know that the menu changes so do call ahead or go to their website to review the menu prior to stopping by.
(4)
Michelle B.

The Maple Avenue Restaurant is a cozy place that produces dishes with big flavor. I thoroughly enjoyed everything I ordered and sampled from my friends plates. The selection of small plates were all tempting. My table selected the mac and cheese and the shrimp and grits to share. The mac and cheese was creamy and smoky. The shrimp and grits was both buttery and fresh. The duck leg confit with fried brussels sprouts was delicious. The sprouts were crispy and nutty; they were probably my favorite thing I ate. The beer braised beef cheek was well prepared and served in a silky sauce that equally compliments the sweet potatoes and the caramelized onions. Julienned scallions brightened up the dish. The service was great and the prices were reasonable for the quality of the food. Maple Avenue Restaurant is an intimate space best shared with a close friend or two.
(4)
Lisa C.

We made reservations which I recommend and they confirmed the day before. The place is small but gives it a wonderful feel like home. The food is AMAZING! The menu is exciting and different which I enjoy. I got scallops and crostinis. The service was spot on. I would definitely return.
(5)
Jey J.

First off, I will say the parking is okay. When I walked in the first thing that the hostess asked is if we had a reservation, we didn't. It took about 15 minutes to find a seat for us. I have read reviews and read on their facebook before and it never said you HAD to have a reservation but i am glad we got seated because i think i've wanted to come here for almost 3-4 years! i got the Seared scallops with basil ice cream & risotto. I am a very picky eater so when i hear ice cream with my hot food i was a bit turned off. I asked the waiter for no ice cream and he informed me that the ice cream was the sauce. I then took his advice and asked for it on the side. i dipped into it and put a little bit on to try and it was AMAZING. i ended up tossing the whole thing in and ate every single bite/drop that was on my plate. The service was a bit slow for me because it was quite empty the date that we came but i didn't care. the food that we had was well worth it. I can't wait to come back!
(4)
Christopher H.

Excellent brunch! Such a novelty of a place in Vienna, with food that screams DC Foodie.
(5)
Bill S.

This place used to be unbelievable - my wife's favorite restaurant, period. It was shocking that there was ever that level of cooking on the Vienna strip, but we've been back 4-5 times since their new restaurant, Water & Wall, opened and the quality is clearly and consistently lower. The deservedly famous wings have been pushing burnt every time, and because the menu has remained largely the same, it's easy to compare dishes before and after. The attention to what made it great just isn't there. Sad to see, but probably unavoidable.
(3)
Kim B.

We have been in DC area for 8 years, and have never had such great food and service!! This place takes the cake. Outstanding service, hosts, food and ambiance. The Best!!! Thank you for a great nite! Love!!!!
(5)
Taesung L.

It is important to note that this place is TINY. This means that you should definitely place reservations. Furthermore, there is not much parking. There are actually 2 sections: the front is for the reservations and is dressier, the back section (you actually have to enter from the back of the restaurant) are for the people who do not know this (and is where we ended up eating). The back section has a rustic look and is super casual (I felt like I was in somebody's backyard in the countryside). Also, if you want to use the bathroom you have to walk back outside and enter through the front (which was slightly annoying). Finally, this place is on the pricier side. Our waitress was very kind and helpful. We appreciated her explaining the dishes to us and making us aware of the charges in ordering side items (crostinis). We had the thai okra, shrimp & grits, and bouillabaisse as our appetizers. The shrimp & grits were AMAZING. I would highly recommend trying this dish at least once. The broth from the bouillabaisse was delicious and I would recommend ordering a side of additional crostinis in order to soak up all of that delicious broth. We had the beer braised beef cheek, whole bronzini, and the mushroom zucchini risotto. The beef was tender and paired nicely with the sweet potato puree. The bronzini was seared nicely. However, the mushroom zucchini risotto definitely stole the show and is the dish that I would get again.
(5)
Jonathan Z.

This is possibly my favorite restaurant! I've eaten here many, many times and am always thrilled with the food, service, and atmosphere! The menu does change frequently, but I highly recommend the creme fraiche wings and duck leg confit for dinner and the truffled eggs for brunch. You should make a reservation, but they can *occasionally* squeeze in a walk-in. If you get there early for dinner, let the hostess know and then head to the bar around the back of the building. They'll come and get you once your table is ready and take your drinks to your table (you can't take them yourselves because you have to go outside). Recently I attempted to make the creme fraiche wings myself and failed miserably. When I came in next, they cheerfully told me where I had gone wrong and how to make them myself. As if I didn't already love this place!
(5)
Christine A.

I was thrilled to find a fine dining restaurant in Vienna. There are complex flavors in every dish at Maple Ave. What a surprising find in this tiny establishment. The only reason I did not give it 5 stars was because it is REALLY LOUD and the parking is so limited.
(4)
Sanghi Y.

Went to brunch and had the Brunch for Two Tasting Menu. Everything was amazing, especially the Cucumber Gazpacho. Will definitely go back soon.
(4)
Karlo S.

Come for THE EVER-CHANGING MENU Stay for THE EVER-CHANGING MENU I love this place. It's one of my favorite places to eat in the area. It's a very small restaurant so it's easy to miss it if you're driving down Maple Avenue (Rt.123) in Vienna. But trust me, once you discover it, you won't regret it. The word "eclectic" is on the sign in front of the building, and the food is indeed that. I've been to MAR many times in the last few years and have enjoyed the food every time. The menu changes every now and then, which may not be a good thing for some of your favorites (and trust me, you'll have some), but you can bet that you'll find a new favorite to add to the list when the chef comes up with a new dish. My personal favorite right now is the Beef Cheek. SO GOOD! The meat is so tender and the flavor is superb. But the dish that takes my heart every time - the Mussels. It's got a nice kick of spice and the mussels are highlighted by the great broth and the diced chorizo. Past dishes that have been great (and sometimes return to the menu) include the chicken and waffles and pork belly with kimchi. Also, try their sweet plates! I recommend the chocolate dumplings:) So if you're looking for some good eats with the fanciness of a big city restaurant but the feel of a small town place, then MAR is for you.
(5)
Mike M.

Other than being a little crammed into a small space, the food is phenomenal. Must try for brunch!
(4)
Candace C.

It's quite a treat for the atmosphere and concept of the restaurant. The wine list/dessert menu/notebook was a very cute touch and you'll find written raves from previous diners. It can be loud depending on who else is dining or you might find yourself the only one talking later in the evening. Parking is tight, you may have to back out into the street so carpool if you can. The food: Upon everyone's recommendation I had the mussels. They were plump and juicy but I'm not sure if the Chinese sausages added anything to the flavor of the mussels or the sauce. Seared scallops with risotto and basil ice cream was delicious and interesting. The ice cream really adds to the creaminess of the risotto and doubles as a dessert. My date had the spicy burmese salad and fries. The julienne-style salad contained oil that seemed to be seasoned by green onions, which was fragrant. I would say in general, everything seemed slightly over-seasoned for my lighter palate (palette?) and can overpower the dish but you're coming here for the combination of flavors and ingredients, not minimalist or watered down in any way. You just might be thirsty later on.... Will be back for the chocolate dumplings!
(4)
Mike B.

It's hard to find value for dollar anywhere anymore. A diner can get creative food for hundreds of dollars, or you can get lousy food for a moderate bill. Maple Avenue has a very creative foody menu for a reasonable price. I was impressed with the service, presentation and execution. I'll certainly go back and explore other menu items. I had the crem fraiche wings and the duck leg. It was probably a bit too much bird for one meal, but they were both great, so who cares?
(5)
Sal P.

Wonderful brunch with my sister, and here's why: - We got the Brunch for two and every course was just to die for. Preparation and presentation were tops. - Bottomless Poinsetta's (cranberry juice, cava, triple sec) -- We definitely drank "our $'s worth" and with the added triple sec kicker, these little beauties taste great and get you where you want to be and FAST :D DO NOT MISS: BEST. MAC & CHEESE. EVER. I tried to convince the server that he hadn't brought out the mac&cheese course so we could have another foodgasm -- perfect balance of cheese and baked top, and the noodles are actually spiral (I think fusilli) so they really capture the flavors very nicely. I posted a pic, but as you can see, by the time I snapped the pic, it was already half disappeared, lol! FRIED GREEN TOMATOES. WOW. Very lightly fried, but still very crisp on the outside. Also posted a pic to give you an idea...just fantastic. WHAT I DIDN'T LOVE: Location. Hate the traffic on Maple Ave - luckily, however, they do have a little parking lot. Chairs were not super comfy. I feel like plush chairs would complement the decadence of the food while letting you kick back and relax - just a thought :) Most of all, it was wonderful to find a friendly local place in Fairfax made by and for foodies with great service. Truly a rare gem! Save a table for me - I'm coming back whenever I can make it down south again!
(5)
Alison S.

This was my second time coming to Maple Ave., and I came back because I did have a good impression the first time, but I regret to report that the second time was not the charm. Everything was just "too" something. The mussels starter (in Chinese sausage, lemongrass, coconut milk) was too salty; probably because they used too much Chinese sausage. The Mushroom & Zucchini Risotto was also too salty. The Peach Saketini was too sweet. And finally, the Yuzu Lime Pie dessert was too sweet. I needed significant helping of water to get me through the meal. From the looks of my companion's plates, I think she was also underwhelmed. But I did taste her Burmese salad starter and I think that was probably the most well balanced tasting dish out of all the things we ordered. Don't think I will be returning. A shame. Really wanted to like this place.
(3)
Lisa N.

"Refreshingly unique" is how my boyfriend describes this hole-in-the-wall restaurant. Although it might sound weird as being Latin American/American/Chinese cuisine, they make it work. We wanted to try everything on the menu, but opted for these items: Steamed Mussels: so plump and flavorful! The mussels were my favorite dish! Baked Mac: The gruyere cheese was good, but the noodles were too al dente and large for my taste. I've had better. Thai Chili Wings: My least favorite dish because I could tell that the wings were previously frozen... the sauce was decent but the toughness of the chicken ruined the taste. Chocolate Dumplings: GET THIS. The dark chocolate inside is very rich and smooth whereas the outside is crunchy... YUM! Maple Ave is really small inside (maybe only about 8-10 tables), so make reservations or you'll have to wait a while for a table! Overall, small place but great food; the prices are reasonable and I would love to come back to try other dishes!
(4)
Luan N.

S:Subjective O:Objective A:Assessment P:Plan S: I agree with Aylin S. in that Maple Ave is a hidden gem in Vienna. And hidden is a key word because this place is so tiny, your GPS realizes you've passed it a few seconds too late. Eclectic menu. There are some items that are undeniably signature to this restaurant. O: Lucked out in that we went for lunch and they had a pick 2 items off the menu $22. # Shrimp & grits- tiger shrimp, venison blueberry sausage, piquillo peppers, stoneground grits # CrÃ¨me fraiche chicken wings -kendall farms crÃ¨me fraiche, korean chili paste # Seared scallops -seared scallops, coconut scallion risotto, basil ice cream # Moroccan chicken - boneless chicken leg, roasted vegetables, cool saffron sauce A: Assessment of myself at Maple Ave 1. Clausterphobia- Some anxiety cooped up in a 10x20 dining area with strangers. But I guess still better that seating situation at a Comedy Improv. However, some of the anxiety melted away after I scooped into their shrimp n' grits. 2. Borderline personality disorder- I traveled all the way from Columbus OH. And I just wanted to give the chef the Bird when she wouldn't accomodate me to buy a scoop of basil ice cream for dessert. But I got to love the chef for making my favorite ice cream, and taking a giant leap and putting it together with risotto. P: 1. Make a reservation for 10 and pretty much have restaurant with familiar faces to ourselves. Now, I gotta make 9 friends. 2. "I would like to pre-order a gallon of your basil ice cream." What, you can't do that? OK I would like to order 20 scallop and risotto dishes, can you just separate the ice cream into another container?
(4)
Yuchen Z.

Atmosphere: Small, very small, like max capacity of 18/20 guests. It seems very casual, almost too casual, if it weren't for the upscale quality of the food. Food: All so very delicious! Small Plates: Grits and Shrimp-comes with a bit of sausage too so I liked that a lot. The sauce in it made it very tasty. I was surprised that it wasn't warmer... I would've liked it to be warmer. Fried chicken with a very very delicious sauce--gobbled that right up. Entree--maroccan chicken-flavorful and a nice cream sauce. BF was disappointed at the portion... it did look a little on the small side, too bad he wasn't filled up by it. My entree was the Scallops with Risotto and ice cream--that was delicious. Really. The basil ice cream really complimented the creaminess of the risotto nicely. The scallops were of course cooked to perfection. They change their menu every week or so, add a dish or so. Definitely go back and check out their ever changing menu. I wasn't super enticed by the dessert menu this time, I do hear they have good pie--key lime wasn't my thing--will be back to try others. =) Parking lot in the back. Service was nice.
(4)
Alice W.

At first glance, one wouldn't think Maple Ave Restaurant is anything special. A small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant with tight parking and limited seating, it's hard to believe that this is a gem in Vienna. The menu is a quilt of different cultures - Korean, Thai, American, Mediterranean, and Moroccan - and the restaurant serves eclectic cuisine blending flavors from these cultures. The menu changes everyday, . Try their steamed mussels in a saffron-coconut broth with Thai chiles, sausage, and crostinis. Yummy! I had their pork-fried rice as an entree, which is reminiscent of a homemade Chinese cuisine-style meal. For dessert, they have chocolate dumplings (!), fried with melted chocolate ganache and vanilla ice cream. I had the yuzu lime pie with a graham cracker crust and homemade marshmallow and I thought it was great.
(4)
Mike L.

The food was really good and there's no doubt about that. However, the price does not match for the whole experience. The place is really old and it showed in several ways. The front door would not close all the way and had to forced shut. They had 1 small desk space heater to try and heat the whole dining area. I just think if you're going to charge high end prices, you need to come with a better experience overall. Like I said the food was good, but rather pay the same amount and go to a 4-5 star restaurant.
(3)
Mike N.

Absolute fantastic! My wife and I went and I can't wait until we can go again. We both got the scallops and they were extremely tender. They do a great job of blending the flavors with the coconut risotto and the basil ice cream. I was surprised by how well the cold ice cream mixed with the hot risotto.
(5)
Joe G.

Good food! Seating is limited. Be sure to call ahead and make a reservation.
(5)
Mera A.

We have come here on several occasions, from special to casual, and the food is always spot-on. Love the seasonally rotating menu. The fried okra and the scallops in coconut risotto with basil ice cream are a must-have. Tiny restaurant so it can feel a bit crowded sometimes, but absolutely worth it.
(5)
Simi H.

I just can't say enough good things about this restaurant. I just love how cosy and quaint it is. You do have to make reservations and they have a seasonal rotating menu. I had the Thai okra as my small plate and curry fried chicken as my main plate which I absolutely loved with the jicama slaw on the side. The servers are knowledgeable and alert. There is also parking in the back. I am planning on going back to try more of their offerings.
(4)
Judy R.

Lunch special is a great value if you want it. Unfortunately they require everyone at the table to order it. I only wanted a salad but was forced to get something I really didn't want. I took it home and it's been in My refrigerator for two days.
(3)
H. Y.

This is one of my favorite restaurants! Their menu is always changing, but some of my favorites are the okra, wings, and fried green tomatoes, but you can't really go wrong. It's a tiny place that doesn't look like it'd be good but it's amazing. Gooo!!!!
(5)
Susan A.

Loved it. Our first visit and took others recs for dinner. Wings superb: worth a trip by themselves. Will surely come back. Great service too.
(5)
Teresa J.

I chose this place to go on my birthday in September based on the Yelp reviews. I would give it 5 stars if it was bigger and if the dessert menu was different. MAKE SURE TO MAKE RESERVATIONS! We didn't and barely got in on a Thursday evening for dinner... When my husband and I got there, we thought it looked like a hole in the wall. The building is small and the outside looks like a fast food joint. Very little parking in their lot and very cramped. When we got in, I didn't realize we needed reservations. I didn't think it would be packed on a Thursday night... but they only have like 6 tables, maybe 8 (I'm guessing but I might be right). We were able to get a table. It's a little cramped and by the end of the night, all of the tables were full and it was a bit noisy. Why give it 4 stars? Because of the food. It was great. We had the following: Fried green tomatoes - my first time having these. it was good but too hot when they brought it out CrÃ¨me fraiche wings - delicious Seared scallops - delicious Chocolate dumplings - my husband loved it because he can eat ice cream and I can't. I thought it was okay I wish they had more of a selection of desserts, like some cakes. Our server was nice. They really need to think about expanding. Decor not thoughtful. Good for a date if you're willing to put up with the negatives. Not good for super large groups. I think the largest group I saw was 4, but they could probably put the tables together...
(4)
Elaine N.

Been wanting to try this place for quite some time, and was able to get a reservation on this Memorial Day evening. All my husband & I could say was "WOW!" What an amazing experience. Service was wonderful. Highly highly recommend the scallops & beef cheek dishes! One of our NEW FAV restaurants! Everyone needs to come here to have a wonderful meal! Can't wait to try their brunch! Delicious!
(5)
Stephanie T.

One of the worse dining experience ever. I've only had to send back food once before in my life, and this would be my second time ever. We ordered the duck confit and it was so dry that I felt eating beef jerky would have been tastier. But what made me send it back was how salty it was. I felt all I was eating was a whole jar of salt, and I only had three bites. I tried to eat other sides of the duck to see if maybe it was just that part of it that got soooooo brutally dumped with salt, but nope, it just got worse and worse and I thought to myself, do I really want to subject myself to anymore of this AND pay this much? So I sent it back and got the scallops instead. Except it took about an hour and a half to get my substitute. REALLY? There's only three tables that have people there, why does it take SO LONG for food? I thought okay, this will definitely not be salty. WRONG. I could only eat two scallops out of four because I was full from drinking two glasses of water because of how salty they were too! It made me kind of angry because you have this beautiful duck leg and these beautiful scallops and you literally butchered it. If all you wanted was salt, then you can get a whole jar of that for $2 instead of pay $40 to eat the equivalent in different form.
(1)
Chris C.

Maple Ave Restaurant is probably one of THE places to eat if you're looking to bring a date or enjoy some catching up with friends. Having less than 8 tables, it's not good for large groups unless you make a reservation well in advance. I cannot stress how important it is to MAKE A RESERVATION. This place is very tiny so I wouldn't do a walk in on a Friday or Saturday night. The food here is honestly excellent. The chef prides himself on using local produce and the freshest ingredients available. And that certainly shows in the food. Being "New American", this place offers quite a variety from mussels, bugolgi, shrimp & pasta, panko chicken sandwich, etc. All of the dishes I've ate here have not disappointed. However, this place gets 1 star off because of its prices. It's definitely on the expensive side given the portions. If you expect to be full by the end of your meal, you'll have to order at least an appetizer and an entrÃ©e. Probably even a dessert too. And their entrees range from the $19-$30 range, appetizers from $7-$12. So it can get pricy. But for a special occasion in the Vienna area, this is definitely the spot to go to.
(4)
Sandy P.

We ate here once when it first opened and couldn't remember why we hadn't been back. Once we sat down and looked at the menu (we were there on Sunday and they had a brunch menu), I remembered. If you don't eat meat, it's very difficult to find anything appealing here. I eat fish, but even the mussels have sausage in it. I was going to ask to have them without sausage until I noticed the snooty note at the bottom of the menu that said something to the effect that they carefully created these dishes and will make NO substitutions. That left me with the scallops with coconut risotto and basil ice cream. For $19 I received a small plate with only 3 medium-sized scallops. They were perfectly seared, and my first few bites of risotto were absolutely delicious until the blob of basil ice cream melted all over it and ruined the whole thing by making it so cloyingly sweet that I couldn't eat it. My husband ordered the mussels and liked them very much, although we both wished there was some kind of vegetable to be had. Our lunch came to $52 plus tip for 2 small plates and one alcoholic beverage and we were both still hungry.
(3)
Oriana K.

I thought the food was over rated and over priced, but the service was good. Don't plan on going back.
(3)
Vince B.

Just enjoyed a "Brunch for two" Sampling. Everything was on-point. I'm not crazy about beats but found myself enjoying them regardless. The Pork Belly Hash was excellent. You may be surprised by the size of this restaurant, it's one of the smallest I've ever been in, but honestly I think it adds something to the experience. Waitstaff was nice and knowledgeable. The French Press coffee was also excellent, I just wish it was a bit bigger, 2 glasses each rather then 1 1/2.
(5)
Hilary B.

Maple Ave Restaurant is not much to look at from the outside, but the food is outstanding. It's a tiny building with room for no more than maybe 10 tables, but the service was excellent, it was nice and quiet, and the food is the best around. I would recommend reservations (I'm not sure you can get in without them). I visited for dinner with my mom. We shared two small plates - shrimp & grits and lemongrass chicken tender salad. Both were excellent with great flavor combinations. Then we shared two main plates - beer braised beef cheek and seared scallops. We were very interested in what the basil ice cream that comes with the scallops and coconut risotto would taste like. It did not disappoint, it was delicious and went perfectly with the dish. Lastly, we shared the chocolate dumplings for dessert. Will go again.
(5)
EddieGabbie C.

My girlfriends and I went here a month ago and I'm just getting around to reviewing. We had brunch at Maple Ave and were quite pleased by our experience. The waitress was very helpful and quite charming with us. We ordered several plates to try. What stood out the most was the Thai okra small plate. That was absolutely delicious and addicting, in my opinion. The shrimp and grits were alright. I wish there were more shrimp in the small plate, but then I suppose it wouldn't be a "small" plate anymore. The entree we all ended up choosing was the seared scallops. The dish was quite tasty. The basil ice cream was refreshing on the plate. I would definitely come back here again to try their other menus. Be sure to make reservations. The parking lot is also small.
(5)
Rebecca M.

Our first time at Maple Ave. I was charmed by the exterior as I drove by several times. After seeing it in Northern Virginia Magazine 50 Best Restaurants, I knew we had to try it. We went in on a weeknight on a whim without a reservation. No problem. We had a corner table for two. Our server was very friendly and helpful with menu suggestions. We decided to get a selection of small plates including the ocra dish, baked mac, shrimp and grits, and chicken wings. I love the flavor of the wings. Delicious sauce! I'm a bit of a shrimp and grits freak and these weren't my favorite. It was cooked fine, but the flavor combos weren't spot on compared with the other dishes. The ocra was delightful. The mac and cheese was-- er, cheesy. We ended up getting a dessert as well: the awesome chocolate dumplings. This would have been five stars if it weren't for the waiter taking away our items to be boxed and then never bringing them back. Buh-bye leftover baked mac! You were sorely missed.
(4)
Jean C.

The food here is very rich FYI. It's also delicious and innovative. Great fusion cuisine and the prices aren't that bad but still on the pricey side. Desserts are always good and the scallop risotto is my husbands and my favorite. Very tiny and intimate so keep that in mind. Always come here when visiting back home.
(5)
Fakhteh D.

I will totally go back again. Just make sure you make a reservation since the restaurant is small. The food was amazing and well cooked. The only downside was that they didn't have a full bar , and drink options were limited.
(4)
Rachel P.

Maple Ave is tiny so be sure to get a reservation. It's awesome. Our waiter was great. Get the okra! We were so blown away by it, and we aren't okra fans. I liked the beef cheek and the beet salad and really liked the chocolate dumplings!
(5)
Stephanie B.

The chocolate dumplings and the funnel cake earn this 5 star. Other perks are the unique entree dishes, and impeccable service. The place is SUPER tiny, and parking can be tricky if it's busy, but I love this place. I'm a fan of the bone marrow, and seared scallops, but I've tried many of the other menu items and have liked them all. They will often switch some of the items, which is nice and give customer the flexibility of trying something new. Cocktails are delicious as well.
(5)
Matthew K.

While I would rarely, in fact it's as improbably as Heisenberg was uncertain, would I ever use a single word to describe, well, anything. If a gun was pointed at my head, as Heisenberg as that maybe, the one word I would give to Maple Ave Restaurant is "Unassuming". The reason I hate such minimalistic attempts at classification and categorization is that while "unassuming" is poignant and apt, it falls wildly short of capturing the experience. Suffice to say, this is a place where looks are deceiving, but you're beyond satisfied upon leaving. The parking is severely limited, but surprisingly there are actually more spots than tables which I could count on one hand. Doesn't matter, unless there just isn't the chance to get in when you arrive. But do come back, it's worth it. The food is absolutely amazing. For breakfast, I enjoyed a nice crisp fresh french pressed Columbian coffee with cane sugar. If I had been so inclined, all you can drink mamosa's were on the menu, but during my time I wasn't quite up for it. This was followed by the best sweet potato hash I have ever had the pleasure to consume. And oh did I consume. I only wish I could go back sooner rather than later.
(5)
Kirsten K.

Stopped here tonight with some friends, one of who read some good reviews online. The 3 of us shared the small plate mussels to start and some pot stickers which were fantastic. For our main courses we had the Maple Ave Burger which was well cooked, maybe a bit too much bun. Scallop and fennel salad which was light and delish; the scallops were perfectly cooked and I enjoyed the grapefruit accompaniment. Also tried the mac and cheese sans bacon which was tasty as well. We also shared some desserts and wine. The waitress was great and very friendly/helpful with recommendations. I am excited this quaint, posh, restaurant opened in Vienna. I look forward to returning soon.
(4)
Justin W.

I really liked this restaurant. It had a nice aerated screened patio too. The food was an interesting fusion of flavors that were delightful. I liked the great service too. The only thing that is a drawback is the location. The parking lot and the location of the restaurant is pretty hard to find.
(4)
Collin S.

Cordial service and tremendous food. I had the Thai okra to start, which, while perhaps not as nuanced as I had expected, was tasty with an alluring, crispy texture. The braised scallops, served with a coconut risotto and basil ice cream (literally) was well balanced, wonderfully eclectic, and immensely tasty. I also enjoyed their excellent selection of bottled beers. While the dining space is as small as it appears from the street (perhaps smaller), the meal made the experience well worth it. Will certainly patronize again, especially when the chef comes out with a new menu.
(5)
Gilbert G.

Maple Ave Restaurant provides a delightful brunch on weekends. My wife, two sons (9 yrs, 7 yrs), and I came at 10:00am on a Saturday morning after making an Open Table reservation. Since most Yelpers said it was not a kid-friendly restaurant, we came right at the opening. It's a cozy space with only 10 tables and dark gray walls. I think one reason why the restaurant is not deemed kid-friendly is the limited space in the restaurant itself. That said, if your kids are well-behaved, the weekend brunch is fine. As others have noted, the dedicated parking lot is limited to perhaps 10 vehicles. If you have a large SUV, you may want to consider parking on Church St. (one block north of Maple Ave.). We ordered the excellent French press coffee (enough for 2 people). For the main dishes, my 9 year old son devoured the scallops dish (he loved the basil ice cream gradually melting into the risotto). This was a delightful dish. My wife ordered the omelette with Chinese sausage, accompanied by a side of boiled kimchi and slice of SPAM. This was also an outstanding dish. My 7 yr old has an aversion to spicy food, but he enjoyed the almond pancakes ("yummy, like cookies"). The only blemish of the morning was the "shrimp and grits". It did not have the spice or excitement of the other dishes. I'm not sure why it seemed bland, but it was a disappointment compared to the other options. Next time, I might try the PBLT (pork belly, lettuce, tomato) sandwich instead. Service was friendly. Maple Ave Restaurant is a sophisticated, creative mecca for foodies in the heart of downtown Vienna! However, if you like fancy decor without a scenic view of Route 123 and the adjacent car wash, Tim Ma has a second restaurant (Water & Wall in Arlington, VA), which is also a haven for foodies, but in a more elegant setting.
(4)
P B.

Great Sunday brunch, but be sure to make a reservation! The place is TINY but the staff was friendly.
(4)
Steve C.

Excellent, creative food in a dive building. Maple Avenue was on our list to try for a couple of months. We loved it. The menu was fresh and creative food, without the condescending attitude at many foodie places. The menu is smallish, but has enough variety to please most everyone. Our server was helpful and friendly, without being intrusive. We especially like the fact that, with the emphasis on small and share plates, you can decide how much to eat (and spend). So, you could stop in for wine and a couple of small plates (all very reasonably priced) or have several courses of small plates and have full,lengthy dinner. The only downside is the space. It still looks like an old dry cleaner. It needs some updating to broaden its appeal. I am confident that many people who would enjoy its excellent food drive right by it without noticing or realizing that it is a quality place, not a dive.
(4)
Jessica F.

Surprisingly worth the trip. This place is so tiny and looks like an old 40's building, but it's got an upscale menu and chefs to back it up. Parking was a bit tight but it was easy to find and right near Wolftrap. I loved the seared scallops and he dug the chicken. We shared the mac n cheese which I think had a bacon topping. Normally I'd object to that but it was so subtle and it worked with the unique cheese blend. They have very different drinks like a sparkling rose lemonade and a chocolate stout beer float. There are only about 9 tables so be sure to make a reservation! You'll be allowed in a t-shirt but feel more appropriate in a nice button down shirt and slacks. Enjoy!
(4)
John H.

I ate here during Restaurant Week, and it was fantastic! The chef is doing a great job creating interesting dishes with unexpected flavors. Try the yuzu lime pie for dessert!
(5)
Roy K.

Earlier this year I moved to DC after living in Vienna for near 6 years. While in Vienna, I was able to witness the transformation this tiny restaurant went through. The location and the building itself would probably discourage most to start a restaurant, however, Chef Tim Ma took a risk and it has paid off, as they are one of the best in the greater DC area. During my visit, we shared shrimp and grits, MAR baked Mac, and curry spiced chicken. Everything tasted well, but the shrimp and grits was the highlight. Also, I tried the Fentiman's dandelion and burdock for the first time and it was delicious. Overall, visit this restaurant not only for the great food but for the great people behind it.
(5)
Bob P.

The food was delicious! The staff was very friendly and accommodating. We order the 6-course brunch - the variety of food was spot-on and the portions were perfect. One caution: we made reservations 4 weeks in advance - there are 24 seats in the "dining room" The photos are not very good . . . they give you the impression that its a French fry place, and its any but that!!!
(5)
Aimee B.

Wow I can't believe this little gem has been sitting just down the street from my office all this time and I'd never been! I had a little trouble finding it since the facade is so not what you'd expect from the high-caliber menu. We started with the fried okra appetizer... It was just okay, a bit salty and oily but that's probably good because I really don't like okra's slimy texture and this was not slimy at all. For dinner tried the seared scallops - as others have said before, it was really fabulous. The scallops were perfectly seared and the risotto was a lushous creamy texture topped with basil ice-cream, yum!!
(4)
Kimmy L.

What this place lacks in size, it DEFINITELY makes up for in just about every other category - food, service, quality, drinks...We had such a great romantic date night here! I love that the drink menu contains little notes from past customers with helpful tips and advice on what to order. I loved my specialty rose lemonade soda and Jolly enjoyed his wine. The star of the night was definitely the FOOD! They just changed over their menu so I will definitely come back before they change it again because our entire meal was just perfect. We over ordered as usual... Do yourself a favor and go NOW. Order the following: -Thai Okra -Thai Wings -Beef Cheek -Pate -Mussels My biggest regret was not saving room for dessert. Those chocolate dumplings will just have to wait for my next visit... You should definitely make reservations since they only have limited seating.
(5)
Tom M.

I've been here 3 times for dinner and once for brunch. Every time has been excellent and the latest was no exception. If you go on Monday it's $35 a person for a 3 course meal, which is a great deal for how good the food is. I got the apple salad to start, which tasted fresh and delicious. For my main course I got the beef cheek, which I had had before and wanted again because of how good it was. The beef is really tender and the sweet potato puree is a great complement. For dessert, I had the mochi flight, which was also great. My girlfriend had the baked mac, the new chicken ramen dish and the bread pudding, which we had had before. The ramen dish was awesome, they get their noodles from NYC and they are probably the best noodles in the DC area. I didn't expect it to be on par with some of the better ramen places I've had in New York and LA but it was close. One of the best ramens I've had around here (for reference, I think Ren's Ramen in Wheaton, MD is the best dedicated ramen place in the DC area). Overall, I've never had a complaint about Maple Avenue. It's just solid all the way through, great food, good service and not as expensive as other places around here.
(5)
Vanessa R.

Creatively delicious! Definitely a place for an intimate fine dining taste without all the hassle of having to dress up for a dining experience in DC. I'd highly recommend the scallops! Seriously, the dish incorporates basil ice cream in it!
(5)
Natasha G.

I came here on a Sunday night, and the food was quite tasty! My dinner comrade and I ordered numerous items. Whew, we were super stuffed by the end of it all! The stand out was of course the scallops - the risotto was cooked to perfection, and the scallops were soft and buttery. The ice cream was a creative touch that added sweetness and coolness to the otherwise hot dish. My only issue - the ice cream had no basil flavor whatsoever! It tasted more like vanilla bean to me. The mac and cheese was too large of a portion and nothing special. I'm glad the bleu cheese wasn't strong, but I've had mac and cheese elsewhere at less refined places, and it tasted the same. Burmese salad was spicy and the perfect portion for two people. The ingredients were fresh and the flavors were awesome. We loved it! The desserts were a great ending to the meal; the sweetness of each item was perfect. The French presses were good, and I liked the decaf Mexican coffee better than the other one. We enjoyed the soda as well! I'd like to go back and try another flavor. Overall, the restaurant itself was cute, and I enjoyed how small it was. I felt like this was my personal eating space, like it had been built only for me and a few guests. That being said, please make a reservation! If you're lucky, you'll get a table next to the window like we did. Miscellaneous items: the service was alright. Our water wasn't filled at the proper times, and we weren't asked how our food was while we ate. We only saw the waiters after we were done with a plate. Also, the prices are a little hit or miss here: some of the small plates are expensive but the desserts are just right. The parking lot is very tight with no more than 10 spots. Bring a small car if you can. Bottom line: this no frills restaurant is great for a date or any quiet get together. You can expect filling, delicious, and comforting food!
(4)
Dan G.

Finally made to this restaurant on a Sat. night with reservations. The place is small but who cares because the service and food are great. Also, the menu is not very extensive but this normally signals to me BETTER food as you cant do every entree on a 100-item menu well. For the small plates, my wife & I split the mussels & the fried green tomatoes. Both were very good but we enjoyed the tomatoes more. We had the beef cheek & the duck confit. I thought the duck was really nothing special but the side of brussels sprouts which came with it was SUPERB! The beef cheek was similar to a brisket type cut but very moist and tender (shouldnt it be since it is beef cheek?). I tasted a few bites of the beef & thought is was good as well. When we come back, I think we may go with more small plates & the brussel sprout or a veggie side as the entrees which we had were good but not outstanding. The mac & cheese that someone else ordered looked really good.
(4)
Shaina E.

Absolutely inventive and delectable entrees! This place has the poshness of being in DC but with the coziness of an old town Alexandria hole in the wall. A very romantic spot for any date that is sure to dazzle the eye! Be sure to get the scallops with basil ice cream :)
(5)
Greg M.

Wow. This was our first time here - although we thought we'd been here many times before. After reading a review last year we accidentally ended up at Maplewood Tavern - good food, but definitely not on the same level. Parking was tough, and the layout was a little weird, but this is about the food - after all, quirky is in right? We started off with drinks - prosecco for my wife, which she loved, and I got a dirty martini - made perfectly. Things were off to a good start. We couldn't decide on an appetizer so we ordered three. The Burrata with tomato jam and the apple salad were great, but the Mac and Cheese was to die for. As for the mains - my wife liked her chicken curry dish but not as much as I loved my duck. It was fabulous. The brussel sprouts with the truffle aoili was the best side I could imagine for a pairing. The duck was cooked perfectly, and while initially I was sad that I didn't get the beer braised beef tongue (I let the waitress make the final decision for me) she definitely made the right choice. Although we were really full decided to get dessert and the waitress told us that there was a special on the menu - an apple tart with vanilla ice cream. No matter where we are, apple pie/tart/anything and ice cream is always my favorite, and this was the best I've had at a restaurant... ever. The tart itself was everything you could want - flaky, buttery, moist, and the caramel sauce that came with it was a revelation. Easily the best dessert I've had in the past five years. My only complaint would be if the tart didn't make it onto their regular menu - we're going back either tomorrow or monday just to make sure we get it at least one more time.
(5)
Saara Z.

I've been to Maple Ave Restaurant twice for brunch now and had two very different experiences each time. The first time I went, my friend and I had the "brunch for two" option - $38 for 6 courses. Couldn't pass it up as it seemed like an awesome deal. However, we were less than impressed by most of the items. The only dish we both really enjoyed was the mushroom crepe and really wished we had more of that instead of some of the other things that came with. So why am I giving Maple Ave 4 stars? Because now I know that you must order things a la carte! Today we started with delicious french pressed coffee with fresh cream - you must order the coffee here, it's perfectly made. We then ordered 4 items (two small plates and one larger plate were just the right amount for two young ladies with large appetites): - Thai Okra - Steamed Mussels - Scallop Risotto - Beignets for dessert The Thai okra was by far the most surprising item we ordered. The flavors were deliciously fresh and the okra was crispy and cooked just right. The steamed mussels were plump and juicy with a light coconut/ginger broth. The description doesn't mention it but there is quite a bit of ginger in the mussel dish so be aware of that if you're not a fan. I thought it worked really well with the other flavors though. The scallop risotto dish comes with three medium sized scallops on top of a scallion risotto with a hint of coconut and topped off with a scoop of basil ice cream. Though the description sounds very rich, the kitchen really excelled at keeping the flavors light and pleasant. The dessert beignets were delicious but not your traditional New Orleans style beignet, however, they paired very well with our second round of coffee at the end of the meal.
(4)
Dat N.

This food rocks. The Thai okra, the curry spiced chicken with that delicious slaw accompaniment and the Asian-take on whole bronzini over amazing fried rice that had a healthy amount of heat without overpowering anything. I picked apart that fish because it took me back to a place - crispy skin and balanced, bold flavors. Served head and tail intact. Just wonderful. The wine we had was an Albarino and definitely one of the better ones. Service was warm and attentive, though it can be spotty at times due to the small space and if there are needy tables. But it was incredibly inviting and courteous from the moment Ricardo opened the door for us. The wine list, like the menu, is small, but carefully curated. Just really smart overall. This is where it's at. But forget the cocktails -- somewhat pedestrian given how cocktails are really trendy now. The big con is the small space. No getting around that. Small dining space, small parking lot and awkward waiting area/bar. We were fine with it and sort of liked its clumsy charm, but it can make for cramped dining.
(4)
David H.

The place is very cozy, the service is attentive, the flavors are well balanced, and the food is pretty delicious. Expensive, but worth it. I would make a reservation, and if you're in Arlington check out their sister restaurant Water & Wall
(4)
Josh B.

The Monday 3 course special can't be beat. The shrimp and grits, beef cheeks, and key lime pie are AMAZING!!!!
(5)
Mary C.

Diverse menu with excellent preparation and preparation. I've never been disappointed in the menu sections, wine/beer/after dinner drink selections or service. It's a gem of a local restaurant conning the charm of a small town but high end restaurant with thoughtful and artistic execution. Must haves: Truffled eggs and bacon Beignets - perfect with just the right amount if powdered sugar, caramel sauce and fluffy richness. Any of their soups Next time I go I've got to have the beer float as an after dinner drink. It's a stout beer served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Don't forget the excellent French pressed coffee :-P
(4)
Stephanie J.

Truly as good as it gets! Wow! Maple Ave Restaurant (MAR) delivers a flawless dining experience. While I visited today for brunch I have also had the enjoyable pleasure of their dinner service which was also impeccable. It is no wonder to me that MAR is rated among "Washingtonian's" best restaurants. This morning we arrived about 11 am with no reservation. The hostess and server collaborated to find us a spot and graciously led us to a table. We started with coffee, nectar of the gods, which was a delectable French roast...fresh ... definitely putting Starbucks to shame. We opted for the 6 course brunch for two. Honestly I was concerned that it would be enough for the boyfriend and me, I should have known better. We started with truffle scrambled eggs and bacon. Oh. My. Goodness. They were incredible. I know it sounds odd to rave about something as basic as scrambled eggs but these were clearly a cut above. The eggs were fluffy and the truffle oil truly did them justice, other flavors seemed to be cheese and garlic very, very delicious and a highlight of the meal. The other courses, all excellent, included: Crepe, carrot soup, Charcuterie, Mac n cheese, and beignets. I needlessly skeptical of the carrot soup but it was quite good. The six beignets were also delicious. They were light and sweetened to perfection. The wait service was impeccable. Our server was attentive and thorough, nothing seemed to escape his attention and dedication to ensuring our positive dining experience.
(5)
Jennifer W.

I was in town on business, and a local friend took me here for dinner. I thought the menu was innovative and the food impressive, despite the lackluster appearance of the place. We ordered an appetizer that was on special that evening - a burrata served with some condiments and crostini. *Three* pieces of crostini for an appetizer that could have easily served 4-5 people. We asked for more and I think to eat my share of the appetizer, I used 4 crostini myself. In sorting out my receipts this evening (post-trip) I noticed we were CHARGED for the extra (necessary) crostini. I thought this was pretty tacky. It's grilled bread. Loved the scallops - the risotto was rich, creamy, and warm, and the dab of basil ice cream was really interesting! In theory, I was skeptical - but it was delicious! The chocolate wontons were fine, but not as great as they've been written about here. I thought they were a little oily. But the chocolate filling was the perfect dark/semi-bitter taste. Oh and I would be remiss if I didn't mention the sparkling sangria -- yum!!!!!! Perfectly refreshing, fresh, and delicious. I would definitely return if in the area again.
(4)
Rebecca C.

This tiny gem in the heart of Vienna is well worth your time and dining-out budget. Chef Tim Ma has created an oasis for food lovers. The menu changes seasonally, although the Chef keeps a few perennial favorites, like Thai-style okra (try it even if you think you do not like okra) and creme fraiche wings. You may find yourself trying foods you've never tried before -- and really enjoying them! As an example, the roasted bone marrow small plate (which is easily shared b/c of its size and richness) is fantastic and perhaps new for some diners. The food is fairly balanced for both carnivores/omnivores and vegetarians. Either way, it's all delicious. Weekend brunch is another pleasure. Sure, there are some standard brunch dishes, and a few surprises as well. Scrambled eggs with kimchi - don't shy away. Or go with an appetite, some time on your hands, and a friend to enjoy the 6-course brunch for two. It's fantastic. A lot of food, but not overwhelming. Because of its size, you will want to make a reservation, and do not expect to bring more than 4 (maybe 6) people in your party. If you are a larger person, you may find the chairs uncomfortable (they need to be small to accommodate the space limitations). If you haven't tried Maple Ave., you are missing out.
(5)
Lydia L.

Really good service and amazing food! I ordered the seared scallop risotto and oh my it was delicious. It is a bit pricy but it is definitely worth it. Only negative part is that the restaurant is way too small. You cant really be loud without disturbing other customers. Anyway, I will be coming back here again.
(4)
Adam W.

If you like fine dining in a small intimate setting, then this is a place to try. We tried tonight as first timers. We tried the okra and burrata as appetizers. The okra was flash dried and tossed in a fish sauce, we both liked it. The burrata (is the white round cheese in the center) salad was fresh with arugula, onions, pickles and pesto, she liked it. She had the veggie risotto as the main which was fine as well. I had the beef cheek which was very tender. For desert we had the non house made, but very good mochi imported from Hawaii, 4 different types of flavors, chocolate mint, blueberry, raspberry and kahlua. Jeremy our server was first class. The only negative that would have given them 5 stars, was that the plates could have been warmer. It was not cold, I guess I would describe it as lukewarm or average. Despite that we plan to try them again. They plan to open a 2nd place in Arlington, hope it does not spoil the good they are currently doing here in little Vienna.
(4)
Nkemjika O.

Delicious!!! That is all. Pumpkin buttermilk pancakes, OMG!!! My boyfriend had the venison omelette and it too was delicious. They give you a personal French press at the table for your coffee which he LOVED and for me, the bottomless mimosas were delish!! Was worth the drive, although we were going to a show out there which was the main reason that we made the reservation. Oh yes, and DON'T FORGET to make your reservation!!
(4)
Jeff S.

Great place!
(5)
Laura W.

O.M.G. I can't remember I enjoyed two small plates of food so much!! I was out and about in Vienna by myself on a Saturday afternoon and, after reading such good reviews about this place, thought I'd pop in for a little brunch. There was a large group on one side of the (super tiny) room and the rest of the tables were taken or reserved, except for one little one-person table tucked into a corner by the windows. Perfect! I had two of the "small plates" and loved every bite of each one. I started with the apple salad (apples, mesclun, currants, blue cheese, spiced walnuts, pickled red onion, apple cider vinaigrette) and followed that with the shrimp n' grits (jumbo tiger shrimp, venison blueberry sausage, red onions, piquillo peppers, stoneground grits). The salad was excellent; great blend of flavours and, thankfully, perfectly dressed. The shrimp and grits was one of the best things I've ever eaten. Seriously. Perfectly cooked shrimp, truly delicious sausage, wonderful grits. I seriously considered licking the plate clean. I've never eaten better for $17. Even better: all the food is local and/or responsibly, sustainable grown. Yes, it's super itty bitty teeny tiny. Yes, you should make reservations. Yes, it can be loud, especially if there's a large group. Yes, it's some of the best damn food around. I will absolutely be back.
(5)
Matt K.

My wife and I have eaten here many times, and it has quickly become our favorite local restaurant. The chef here has created a small, but delicious menu, a strategy which is smart. Limit what you do to things you can do really well--that's what Maple Avenue does. The food is excellent. The service is top notch. The last time we had dinner here we liked it so much that we woke up the next morning and went there for brunch. Highly recommended.
(5)
Daniel B.

Solid inventive food. I really like my kimchi eggs (I love kimchi, and the fact that they fried it up mellowed it out making it more approachable to the masses). We also tried the mussels, which were really good (I almost wanted to drink the sauce). I was less than impressed with our dessert (chocolate in fried wonton). I will definitely give their new location over in Ballston a try (plus it won't have the crazy small parking lot...).
(4)
Kim H.

HUGE FAN of Maple. I can't even count the number of times I've eaten here. The menu is constantly changing with Chef Ma's creative dishes. YES, this place is small but this is what gives it personality. It's a neighborhood establishment - you eat, drink, talk to your neighbors. The food is always consistent, I love the French Toast (brunch), they use real french baguettes! The Spanish dumplings are an old family recipe made by hand! Yum! I also love the Dr. Pepper ribs, the meat is so tender it falls off the bone. Couple that with an ice cold craft beer (they have a great selection) and you have a perfect meal. I'm really impressed with how creative the dishes are. The back bar just recently opened. There are four four top tables, a flat screen tv, and a bar. Perfect place to hang out have a cocktail or two or three or four.......!!
(5)
Lulu M.

Menu is delicious! Love this place!
(5)
Grace L.

I went in on a Tuesday morning with a friend for lunch. We were both really excited to try their American cuisine style food. After walking in, we realized that there were only 10 tables and most of them had reservation signs on them. Luckily, the hostess allowed us to sit at one of the two seat tables since the expected reservation wasn't until about 2 hrs later that day. I tried their Facebook lunch which is either an appetizer and entrÃ©e or an entrÃ©e and dessert for $20. I decided to try their mac and cheese and it was delicious! It was very gooey with American cheese and this crispy panko breading on top. For my dessert I had their brownie and ice cream. I forgot what it's called but the brownie was a bit too sweet with the caramel. I understand that this restaurant is unique but their food was alright. Note: Reservations are highly recommend unless you want to risk a chance of going in and not being able to dine. Also since the parking lot is tiny, it might be a good idea to carpool.
(3)
Va Beach M.

So I caved and went back for a friend's b-day request. Mistake. Walked in at 2:30 and the waiter said the kitchen closes at three. Really, you think it'll take us 30 minutes to place our order. Yes, and thanks for that warm welcome. My friend and I split the tiniest beet salad ever: there were three beets, each smaller than a golf ball. Then the chicken sandwich was horrible. The bread was stale and tasteless, like a hamburger bun from Giant. The chicken was breaded, on bread. Right, the tastes don't go together. We had to order our shared dessert when we first arrived as the kitchen was closing. These portion sizes are perfect for a four year old.
(1)
Bonnie B.

I had been reading reviews about this place for a while and when the bf asked where we wanted to go for our 'thanksgiving' dinner I finally remembered this place! As other reviewers noted, it is very quaint, but the flavors are bold! We had the mussels as an appetizer/small plate. It was actually a pretty large sized portion for two. The addition of chorizo gives a nice unexpected element of flavors and textures. The bf had the beef cheek with sweet potatoes, which was great considering I was very skeptical. I had the seared scallops with risotto and basil ice cream. Who would think to put a sweet herb ice cream in your dinner plate?? Crazy, but in a wonderful way. Both dishes were absolutely rich and delicious! We also splurged on dessert, which were the chocolate dumplings. Such a perfectly simple ending to our dinner. We left feeling very satisfied with our choices and full bellies! We will certainly be returning soon!
(5)
Jasen F.

Third time was not a charm...finally went last night. We had tried twice previously but life got in the way and a 30 minute jaunt to Vienna made rescheduled impossible (we tried). My wife is a vegetarian and the choices we limited. Sweatpants Sunday - we went as a belated-b-day dinner but we dined with family in sweatpants, other couples in date attire, and kids playing angry birds on iphones. I wanted to like it and not be a hater but sitting two feet from the door with blasts of cold air turned me green. The decor is fine, the space is small; they have a few local photos and pieces of art amongst the random power outlets, cords, and other building guts that spill out from the back wall. I spent a good portion of the meal wondering what this space used to be. The food was good. The portions were fair. Our server was meh; the entree came out while we were still working on our salads (apple - yum!) and thai okra (super yum!). No asking, just dropping. We lived and finished our meal but the entire experience, ever for a Sunday, felt rushed. Desert was bread pudding (yum) and lime pie (marshmallow topping wonderful but too much crust and way, way, too sweet). I'm sure it's great for Vienna but I'm surprised it's so high on the Washingtonian magazine ratings and can say that we will not return.
(3)
Cyndy K.

29 Jul 12 I was excited to try this restaurant because of all the rave reviews. TIP #1: The building is very small so look for the Merchant Tires sign (white/blue) then take the next turn into the small parking lot. I didn't like the building a sort of dilapidated building disguised as a restaurant. It even has a bench sitting on top of the roof. Inside it is very small and it is very noisy. TIP#2: Sit close to your dining partner so you can have a conversation. We sat in the corner literally looking outward. Sitting so close to the windows you can't help but notice that the windows needed a bit of cleaning. Now the food choices - I was surprised at the menu because it was so limited. At first I thought we were provided with the lunch menu. Our waiter explained the (3) specials so that added to the limited menu. We ordered the mac and cheese, the special order of scallops with a chili sauce on top of pea shoots, and the braised beef cheek sandwich on a brioche bun with french fries. If you are looking for a wine list it is very limited too but I managed to find an Italian white that was pretty good. The mac and cheese was divine but not the best I've ever had. The amount of cheese to the fusilli pasta was superb and the Gruyere cheese is very decadent! The special scallop was cooked to perfection but it did not have the caramelizing on the outside. It was sitting on a bed of sauteed pea shoots. I believe that sauteing the pea shoot did not do it justice. The pea shoot stems were rough to eat. I would have rather have the pea shoot in its raw state with this dish. My hubby had the braised beef cheek sandwich which was a well put together sandwich but could have used more beef cheek in the sandwich. The beef cheek was nice and tender full of flavor but there wasn't enough in the sandwich for dinner. The french fries were nicely fried golden on the outside and sprinkled with some herbs. We decided to throw in the towel and leave because the atmosphere was not quite right and decided that the price point was high for what you don't receive. The service was mediocre our waiter was OK took our order and disappeared never to be seen until our food arrived. But remarkably I was able to flag our waiter down for a second glass of wine. TIP#3: this restaurant is better for lunch but the prices are high. BTW: Who wants sandwiches for dinner, not me. We ended our night at another restaurant.
(2)
Jenna W.

3.5 . We had company in from out of town and we went here for the first time to show them the charm of Vienna. The Good 1) The food. I had the fried egg sandwich and the flavor was good, but the bun it was served on was way too thick. The potato hash was VERY good. 2) The coffee. We had the french press. The Bad. 1) Service. We ordered two french presses... waited the 4 minutes pressed down and the one french press had a defect and coffee grounds were not contained. Our guests tried to drink it, but it was pretty bad. We pointed this out to the server, who instead of immediately taking it back and getting us a new french press blamed us for not using the press correctly. Obviously this was not the case since we had two presses on the table and one was perfect (and delish). After the initial attitude we did get a new and improved french press. When delivered to the table she STRESSED (rudely) to wait four minutes. If it weren't for the curt service, this would be a 4.5 - 5 star place. Great local gem.
(3)
Richard S.

tl,dr; great food, really small venue, go here (for you people on mobile phones looking for quick summaries) Long version: came here with a friend, did not disappoint. The menu appears boring, but don't let that fool you. Our waitress told us that we could opt to eat the "small plates" either as an appetizer for a main plate or treat them like tapas. I wasn't sure if I wanted some variety in life, or maybe I just wanted to see what the hell this restaurant is, but I chose to order five small plates and share. Portion size was pretty good and the items were things I've never really tasted before, like Thai inspired okra or beef tongue and tripe salad. They were all very good, even the more familiar items like beer battered fries or steamed mussels. Since I still wanted to talk some more with my friend but not wanting to seem like dicks just sitting at a table, overextending our welcome, I pushed for dessert. While my moral, health conscious self regretted ordering two fried items, I personally enjoyed their homemade funnel cake and chocolate dumplings. I admit, it's probably kinda stupid to get two similarly fried desserts, in the words of the wise man Drake, YOLO. No but seriously, it was good. It didn't feel heavy at all and the textures were great--crisp on the outside, rich and decadent on the inside. My GI tract is going to get its revenge on me tomorrow morning, but I'd probably come back here again. Fair warning, it's really small and parking sucks, but in another light it's cozy and makes you feel like you're in one of those Hobbit homes (not really). You could also bring some friends here to just sample desserts and drink coffee, this places seems great for that.
(4)
Ann T.

definitely a unique experience. best food in the area. come with a date or a small (4 tops) group. make reservations.
(5)
Lela T.

Being a fan of Momofuku Ko, I knew Chef Tim Ma would stand well on his own. Every time I come here, it's like a swing dance on my palette. Simply put...SHUT UP AND TAKE MY MONEY!!! I don't like desserts. I prefer savoury over sweet. I shared a chocolate dumpling with a friend of mine. It is the only dessert I will ever order and enjoy.
(5)
Kelly C.

I've driven by this super tiny place numerous times on the way to WF, but it wasn't until a few months ago that we finally had the opportunity to dine here on a much needed post-baby night out. The menu is thoughtful and uses local ingredients and the atmosphere is cozy. Do make reservations as there are all but a dozen or so tables. Although the lighting is nice, you are not paying for ambiance. You are paying for the food which is artful, inspired and perfectly prepared. One final note, I came here thinking it wasn't the kind of place to bring our young son, but there were many tables with children. I'm looking forward to coming back soon -- both for dinner and for brunch.
(5)
Mustafa K.

Contrary to its unassuming looks and diner-like name, Maple Avenue Restaurant offers pretty creative dishes that can surprise anyone looking for an escape from the usual. The interior is very modest. You can even call it boring. There is a backroom that is available to those without a reservation (Reservations are highly recommended for Fridays and weekends.). You actually have to go out and walk all the way around the building to get to the back room, which is a bit weird. What is even weirder is the fact that the restroom is in the main dining room. So if you are sitting in the back room you have to go out, walk around the building and go into the main dining room to use the restroom. However you won't really care about this once your food arrives! The drinks menu is decent. However we really enjoyed the "botanical brews". These are kind of like all-natural sodas. They are not made in-house; they are bottled drinks. Nevertheless they are worth trying if you are in the mood for a refreshing drink. The dinner menu is fairly small. Some items may sound fairly usual, but almost every item on the menu has something unique either in the form of a dressing/sauce or side (e.g. seared scallops served with basil ice cream). After a few visits my favorites are: Thai okra, spicy Burmese salad, and beer braised beef cheeks. Beef cheeks is a must try. It will make a vegetarian go carnivore. All in all Maple Avenue Restaurant (or MAR as they call it) is a good place for any occasion. A second visit is guaranteed, because you will want to try the other items on the menu.
(4)
Johnson H.

This was my first visit here and was really excited for the dinner to be had. First off, they have exceptional chefs in the kitchen! The three courses I ordered was steamed, grilled, and baked perfectly. The decor is minimal and bleak. Creating an ambiance that is cozy and personal with your company at the table. But it is easy to listen into another tables conversation due to the small size of the restaurant. Most items on the menu is rich and heavy. So, I wouldn't be able to eat here that often for health reasons. The menu is quite unique and inspiring to try. On this night the favorites at our table were the steamed mussels & pork belly starters. then the grilled bronzini was covered with beautiful grill marks and inside was still delicate and flaky white fish. Because the beef cheeks and beef rib were too sweet for my taste I have to pass on a second bite this night. Unfortunately, for my lack of a really sweet tooth I didn't find a dessert I would order again. I so wanted to LOVE this place. Just from reading Tim's story, being green restaurant, using local farms. All very inspiring, but it's just a like it and not a love it place for now.
(3)
Elizabeth C.

I loved Maple Ave Restaurant! I'm from Phllly, but I spend holidays in Vienna, VA with my inlaws. One of our yearly traditions is to take my husband's grandmother out to lunch. It's a real treat for her to try new restaurants. It's great for us, too, because we love eating out! Anyway, enough about me. We were all worried when we saw the outside of the restaurant. It looks like it was probably a waffle house or something before; it was not particularly refined looking, and the place only had a small parking lot in a highly-populated area. This was the worst thing about the place, which is not too bad in the grand scheme of things. The food and service was GREAT. Our server was friendly and helpful, and we were VERY impressed with the food. Portions were generous, which is nice because I think the dinner would be overpriced if not for the leftovers. :D We were there for lunch, which they have a special for Tuesday-Friday for $20pp for an app and an entree. I had the mac and cheese (which is a huge portion, definitely meant for sharing). I also had the lemongrass chicken, which I thought was well seasoned and creative, especially the sautÃ©ed romaine that melted in my mouth. My husband had the shrimp and grits and the pork belly, which he enjoyed quite a bit, and his grandmother had the apple blue cheese salad and Moroccan chicken, which she was raving about the entire time. They have alcohol, but it's nice that they have a nice selection of non-alcoholic beverages. I had the raspberry ginger soda and liked it. Overall, I would definitely go back here. However, they would really be a 5-star restaurant if they changed locations.
(4)
Keith M.

I love this place. It's a quaint little restaurant with great food. All of the wait staff is friendly and courteous and their brunch was great. I ordered egg and and kimchi brunch and they also offer bottomless cocktails during brunch (maybe next time) Not a million choices but they change their menu pretty frequently. All of it looked great and we all enjoyed or meals. We were there when they opened at 10 on Sunday but I think it's better to make reservations. That being said, they accommodated us since the first reservation wasn't till 1130. their dinner is also great. If you're in Vienna, I strongly recommend stopping in.
(5)
Food Love R.

Service, ambiance and food is all excellent! The only reason I'm NOT giving them a 5 starts is because they are very heavy handed on salt. Also the dessert is also too sweet for my liking. Too bad because I really enjoyed the dining experience. Salty food does just makes me think of not coming back to the restaurant...
(3)
NoV a.

I've only been here twice, but thought I'd give it a review. I am a huge fan of this place supporting local farmers. We do have a poultry allergy in the family, so the menu options during dinner was limited, but the staff and chefs were extremely accommodating and made sure everything was handled appropriately. Because of that alone, this place gets 5 stars. Now onto the food - dinner was delicious - the mac and cheese, the chicken dish we ordered, etc. The portions for dinner were on the small side, but I think their brunch is way better. If I graded them purely on brunch, it'd be a 5, but for dinner and brunch combined -- given the heavy emphasis on poultry, I can't say it's the perfect fit for us.
(5)
Laura B.

I'm sure this is a terrific place for serious foodies. My mom and I enjoy eating out but did not much enjoy our lunch at Maple Avenue Restaurant. The structure of the menu was confusing, and we found some of the food to be eccentric. The risotto would have been delicious if it hadn't been topped with a small scoop of sorbet, which upon melting turned the dish into a sort of rice pudding. The Moroccan chicken was tasty but it was paired with cabbage that was burned, but I think it was cooked that way on purpose. The vanilla ice cream that came with the chocolate dumplings was exquisite; the dumplings were strangely tough as if they were made with eggroll wrappers. Just not our kind of place.
(2)
Kevin O.

i've been sitting on this review for months becauase i cou;dn't wrap my head around how negative of an experiece i had. I went to Maple Ave with my wife for some special occastion. it was terrible. TERRIBLE. Which is too bad because i went once before and it was amazingly good. I had a korean style pork belly in lettuce cups. it was disgusting. the pork belly was hard and was so salty that it actaully burned my mouth. Inedible. Also, how the EFF are you gonna try to do Korean food and screw it up when you are a stones throw away from a billion killer korean joint is Annandale??? That'd be like opening a crappy Chilidog place downthe street from Ben's. I can;t rememeber what my wife had, but she was unenthused. The rolls had been microwaved. the music was some god-awful DJ mix of machael jackson and mom jams that what playing on a 20 minute loop. so bad. $65+ for a horrible meal never going again.
(1)
Christina C.

Usually when I eat at nicer places, I am often disappointed by the taste in comparison to cost or am often just left feeling hungry and 20+ dollars poorer (I mean I understand quality over quantity but some places take it too far), but not here! Maple Ave is not only DELICIOUS, but the food left me feeling satisfied as well. We got two dishes, the scallop risotto and the duck, and they were fantastic. The basil ice cream goes surprisingly well with the scallops! To be honest, I could probably just eat that on its own. And the duck was well-seasoned and paired well with the refreshing salad and quinoa. We also got the shrimp & grits appetizer, but I wasn't as impressed by that. Nonetheless, the portion was pretty generous for an appetizer. The space is very, very small, but unlike other restaurants, it seems like they are very conscientious of their customers and take great detail in preparing the food; we were asked if we had any diet restrictions or would like any substitutions, which we've never experienced before! All in all, a wonderful restaurant and a great choice for a date night.
(5)
Keith B.

You don't know what they'll be serving, but you do know it will be wonderful. Be warned that the portions are not large, so order several dishes.
(5)
Yoyd N.

A hidden gem (on the busiest street in Town)! I've passed by hundreds of times but finally stopped in for a dinner recently. It truly is a chef's mini-lab with mouthwatering recipe combinations that please the palate and the brain! (Seared scallops with basil ice cream & risotto...roasted marshmallow 'Smores martini with home-made graham crackers...mmm) EXTREMELY limited space so make reservations. High quality, and high cost. Had a lovely dinner and will certainly return.
(4)

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Address : 147 Maple Ave W
Vienna, VA, 22180
Phone (703) 319-2177
Website https://www.mapleaverestaurant.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:00 am - 2:00pm

Specialities

Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : No
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : No
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No

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Maple Ave Restaurant

147 Maple Ave W, Vienna, VA, 22180

Maple Ave Restaurant Menu

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