Max’s Brasserie: Italian and Sicilian Dining in Southampton

Max’s Brasserie is an authentic Italian and Sicilian restaurant located at 9 Commercial Road in Southampton, right opposite the Mayflower Theatre and a five-minute walk from Southampton Central station. Founded in 2014 by Massimiliano Romano and moving to its current location in early 2026, it is a family-run venue with a kitchen led by Head Chef Gennaro Pascarella, who brings 30 years of experience to the table. The restaurant focuses on traditional home-style recipes, preparing fresh pasta daily and simmering sauces slowly to order. Its atmosphere is welcoming with a smart casual dress code, making it a regular choice for theatregoers and lovers of classic Italian food.

The menu focuses on seasonal dishes made with fresh market ingredients. Some of the standout plates include Busiate alla Norma, Spaghetti con Polpette, Spaghetti al Nero di Seppia e frutti di mare, and classic Carbonara alla Romana. For starters, options range from Bianchetti Fritti (£11.90) and Fungo alla crema (£12.90) to Carpaccio di Manzo (£13.90) and Polpette classiche (£11.90). They cater well to dietary restrictions, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, with gluten-free pasta available to substitute across their pasta dishes.

Because of its location opposite the theatre, the restaurant provides a targeted pre-theatre dining service, offering two courses for £24.90 or three courses for £29.90 (advance orders by email are recommended). The wine list highlights Italian selections such as Tuscan Chianti Classico DOCG Riserva, Salentine reds, Friulian whites, and the exclusive "Wine of the Champions" collection. Their signature drink is the Balsamic Gin and Tonic, created alongside local distillers. The space also includes private dining options and an outdoor terrace open from May to September where dogs are permitted.

Max’s Brasserie opens on Mondays from 17:00 to 22:00, Tuesdays to Saturdays from 12:00 to 14:30 for lunch and 16:30 to 22:00 for dinner, with Thursdays opening slightly earlier at 11:30. Sundays operate by reservation only. Wheelchair accessibility is facilitated by a portable ramp for the step at the entrance, and assistance dogs are permitted inside.