Clandestine French dining amid the tourist din.

(206) 682-7270

81A Pike St
Seattle, WA 98101 47.608834 -122.340101

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Neighborhoods: Pike Place Market, Downtown

maximilienrestaurant.com/

Hours:

Mon-Fri 11:30am-10pm

Sat-Sun 9am-10pm

Price:

$

Last updated 6.24.11

Category:

Banquet Rooms, Restaurants

Payment Methods:

American Express, Cash, Diners Club, Discover, Visa, MasterCard

Restaurant Special Features:

Brunch, Outdoor Dining, View Dining

Cuisine:

French

What People Are Saying About Maximilien

The Owner

Maximilien

Owner

Maximilien is a romantic and charming French restaurant located in the heart of downtown Seattle's historic Pike Place Market. Owned and operated since 1997 by Axel Mace and Eric Francy, Maximilien has all the old-world charm of a Parisian hideaway. Inside, panoramic views can be seen of Puget Sound, Elliott Bay, West Seattle and the Olympic Mountains, all framed by huge picture windows. Our cuisine features market fresh local ingredients cooked with French techniques. Our Chefs were trained in some of the most prestigious restaurants in France. The result is a seasonally changing menu…

Provided by CityGrid

Read more from the owner

Featured Review

Allison Austin

Contributor

The Scene – Perfectly hidden in the nether regions of the Market, this two-story French bistro remains a romantic, well-kept secret. After 26 years of doting couples sipping wine while gazing at the view of Puget Sound, the space feels lived-in and refreshingly, well, old--a charming hint of culinary history in a town overwrought with too much new. – – The Food – Not one but two escargots appetizers and an abundance of foie gras expose the menu for what it is--an ode to time-honored French fare. It's generally best to stick with the basics: a generous tenderloin…

Editor's Tips

What to Drink:
The wine list is appropriately French-centric, but never fear--service is both helpful and knowledgeable. Order a bottle of La Demoiselle de Sociando Mallet Bordeaux, $39.
When to Go:
Stop in on the weekends for crepes, cafe au lait and more at brunch.
Parking:
On weekend nights, the valet drop-off is under the clock and neon sign. At other times, opt for the Pike Place garage at 1531 Western--the first hour is free.
Save Money:
Happy hour is Monday through Friday 5pm to 7pm and 8pm to 10pm.
5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

01/15/10

One of the best French happy hours!

by felicelam , Citysearch Contributor at Citysearch

Nestled in the corner of Pike Place market, this romantic French restaurant could almost be called a hidden gem; their happy hour is one of my personal favorites. With each plate at $2.95, not only are you presented with great value but the food is always delicious from the steamed mussels to the fries. For drinks, their French martinis are made to perfection along with plenty of wine choices. The best part of the service is that some of the staff will speak to you in French to add to the authenticity and charm of this place. Bon appétit!

  • Pros: friendly staff, flavorful food & drinks, spectacular views
  • Cons: downtown parking can be tough to find, some close quarters
5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

12/05/08

Absolutely Wonderful

by sallyg1234 at Citysearch

Exquisite food, wonderful service, friendly atmosphere and beautiful views...it doesn't get much better! Come here for lunch with friends or business associates or a romantic evening with a loved one. NEVER disappoints. Still my favorite restaurant in Seattle! Bon Appetit!

  • Pros: Food, Wine, Bar, Service
  • Cons: None
4 Star Rating: Recommended

06/17/08

Quaint place, great food & service

by LLL2008 at Citysearch

I have eaten here a few times and enjoyed my dining experience each time. The food is wonderful, and the wait staff are attentive. Furthermore, the view is spectacular.

  • Pros: Food, service, ambiance
  • Cons: A bit pricey, but worth it
5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

05/24/08

Fantastique!

by TheFrenchCat at Citysearch

What an amazing place! I cannot believe it took us so long before dining at Maximilien!

Being French, I totally felt home in this unpretentious upscale atmosphere... The food was just to die for, our server Ali spoke French and gave us a royal treatment! Plus, French music was playing in the background all night! The only reason I knew I wasn't having diner in Paris, was the breath taking view of the Puget Sound! Maximilien became our favourite restaurant overnight!

  • Pros: Service, view, food & wine, atmosphere - Tres romantique!
  • Cons: none
5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

05/16/08

Fantastic view and Great food!

by dokidoki at Citysearch

Eating at Maximilien is a taste of Paris with the view of Seattle. I have eaten here a handful of times and have never left without wanting more. Beautiful view, food and great staff! It a must try for any breakfast lover.

Enjoy!

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Message from Maximilien

  • Prestigious Chefs
  • Romantic and Charming
  • Panoramic Views

Maximilien is a romantic and charming French restaurant located in the heart of downtown Seattle's historic Pike Place Market.

Owned and operated since 1997 by Axel Mace and Eric Francy, Maximilien has all the old-world charm of a Parisian hideaway. Inside, panoramic views can be seen of Puget Sound, Elliott Bay, West Seattle and the Olympic Mountains, all framed by huge picture windows.

Our cuisine features market fresh local ingredients cooked with French techniques. Our Chefs were trained in some of the most prestigious restaurants in France. The result is a seasonally changing menu highlighted by such signatures as the wonderful "Tournedos Rossini."

Reservations are recommended, however not required.

Maximilien
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