I have had the pleasure of taking an hiatus from work to explore new food eats around the state. I sat down tonight and thought about what the month had brought me and what was worth remembering. I instantly thought of Maxine’s! This place is everything you’re looking for in a hidden gem. Steeped in history, Maxine’s was originally a brothel owned by long-time head lady Ms. Maxine in the early prohibition period. Hot Springs is well known for its association to mobsters like Al Capone and for its underground speakeasy systems around the city. This little dive comes right out of the roaring twenties itself. Inside you’ll find old bench style seating, much like what you would find in little Irish pubs in movie plots. Tons of mirrors line the walls and little portals to hidden rooms are found throughout the building.
There is a loft upstairs for bands playing gigs, very retro 70’s type dig, makes you feel appreciated unlike a lot of venues. One side is a full bar with a dart area upstairs in the loft, and the other is the music/dance venue. The bar has a smoking section outside and a stellar staff of people.
Not only is the ambiance on point, but so is there drink selection. A great array of specialty beers fit to suit any craft beer lover and a bomb whiskey selection. They have their own maple infused bourbon which is great in almost anything. On top of that, their food selection is the bomb dot com. For real! This is by far the BEST place to get a pizza in Hot Springs and it’s so worth what you pay. They make great burgers, but their pizzas are to die for! They also have great specials during the week days including taco Tuesday’s, $3 craft drafts and trivia on Wednesday’s, live music every Friday and Saturday, and Bloody Sunday’s with amazing Bloody Mary’s and Walking Dead playing on the big screen.
If you are in the area, give Maxine’s a go. It may not be “your scene”, but you are in for one heck of a treat. From the buildings rich history, to its specialty cocktails and their awesome menu, you are sure to be satisfied. Just don’t expect a quiet meal on weekends after 9 and keep this space judgment free, it’s all about the love in this place people.
365 Days of Hot Springs 