I came here five minutes before their opening time of 5:00p.m. on a Friday night and there was already a long line. I was lucky enough to be the last one to get a table on the promise that I'd be done in an hour and a half because they have that very table reserved for another group. Obviously the entire izakaya was filled to max capacity as were the last ones seated. We ordered two Asahi draft beers and a bunch of food. The dishes that are must tries are the crispy rice, beef tongue, ginger pork, Taiwan mazesoba and squid with guts. I didn't think the two desserts were anything to write home about. The decor was very Japanese izakaya style and it wasn't too loud while I was there. Overall, I'd recommend trying it out at least once. read more

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the only place in dallas to be on yelps top 100 places to eat! went on a rainy day, had about a 15 min wait very cute interior portion to sit on the ground without your shoes best bites: toro (fatty and great bite), kobe skewer (flavorful, smoky) standards: takoyaki and chefs choice of appetizers (cool concept and the cooked salmon on the right was delicious) worst: taiwan ramen (my mouth was shriveling with each bite), chicken karaage with mayo (same issue, mayo didn't help). the main issue was the overwhelming salt all for $64 good value, wouldn't wait over 20 min for this place read more

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Mr. Max has been around for decades and I still go there when I am in town. The sushi rolls are massive to where you might not be able to fit one piece in your mouth. It's nice that they give you options for 6 or 12 (or was it 10) piece sushi rolls. read more

The perfect izakaya experience during my stay in Texas! This place is pretty popular, so expect a little bit of a wait but the experience is well worth it. Once you get inside, you're expected to take your shoes off to sit, so PLEASE wear socks if you come here. The food was all delicious, but the things that stood out were the sushi platter, clams, squid, and mazemen ramen. The servers are super friendly, and I will definitely be back. read more

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Place never disappoints! Ordered the beef tongue, karaage, katsu, and egg omelette. Each items were cooked to perfection. Come early! We arrived at 4:30 pm and was 6th in line read more

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The ambiance felt like I was right in Japan! A little small on the inside, but feels like I was in the right place for some amazing authentic Japanese food. The service was nice and welcoming. read more

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Mr. Max is a tiny gem! The place is definitely crowded with very limited seating, but the food is absolutely amazing and worth any wait. We ordered the Tonkotsu Ramen, Taiwan Ramen, and Fried Chicken. I especially loved the flavoring of the Taiwan Ramen soup--it was so savory and unique. This is easily some of the most authentic Japanese food in Irving! read more

Mr Max - Mr Max eating area - Sushi Bars Near Me - Irving, Texas

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Ever since this place was featured in the yelp top 100 it has been a nightmare to eat here. You would have to book weeks in advance. Recently they moved their reservations online but I haven't used that system yet. I ate here before they opened their new location and it was amazing. The dishes were authentic and the appetizer prices were very reasonable. Also, despite it being completely packed, service was attentive and friendly. It was giving family friendly bar vibes which was perfect. If you can get a reservation here (3 person minimum) I definitely recommend it. It's my favorite place in DFW for Izakaya. They don't have as much variety for sushi/sashimi but you can't expect everything. Can't wait to come back here! read more

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good service and food came out fast. The sashimi tasted nice and fresh i recommend getting it! All of the food was displayed nicely and tasted good aswell. read more

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Mr Max is good but due to the social media exposure it's become harder and harder to find a seat. You literally have to show up before they open and wait in line. The food is great. It's mostly made by Japanese people so you can call it "authentic". You do get many choices that are available at izakayas just like in Japan. I particularly like the "Shishamo Smelt Fish", I think I order it every time. The "Pan fried Squid w/ Salt Butter" is my other favorite. Both of these dishes are great with a bowl of rice. The restaurant can get pretty hot inside because it's small (just like a real izakaya in Japan) and there will be a wait if you show up after they open. read more

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Service was okay and met basic expectations, but nothing special and could be improved in a few areas.

Always a go to place for amazing delicious japanese food! Very authentic and service is so hardworking, fast and so sweet. Thank you to the chefs and waitress who are always so nice to us! The atmosphere is very creative and homey. Love the food selections. read more

Mr Max - Takoyaki! - Sushi Bars Near Me - Irving, Texas

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I LOVE this place! The food is a 10/10. I just wish they took reservations for parties of two -- they only accept them for groups of three or more. It gets pretty crowded around dinnertime, even on weekdays, so plan accordingly! The takoyaki was the star of the show. I've had a lot of takoyaki in my life, and this was by far the best. When it came out, it was so fresh and hot that the bonito flakes were dancing on top -- a fun little moment. The veggie tempura was also a fun surprise -- they tempura-fry hearty chunks and slices of onion (which I loved as an onion fan!). One note: once we finished eating, it felt like they were gently nudging us to wrap up, which I get since the seating is limited. Definitely not the kind of place you hang out long after your meal -- but that's part of the charm. It's cozy, traditional, and efficient. I also loved the traditional Japanese seating -- you take your shoes off and sit at a sunken table on the floor. Such a cool experience. Highly recommend visiting! read more

Mr Max - Vegetable Tempura - Sushi Bars Near Me - Irving, Texas

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Very nondescript location in a shopping center in irving. Restaurant is quaint with cool traditional looking seating. Service is incredibly fast (likely due to the need to turn tables quickly because of limited seating) and friendly. Prices were reasonable and food was very good. read more

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Sashimi, Mentai Cod Roe + Cucumber, Grilled Miso Marinated Salmon, Karaage with Tartar Sauce, Agedashi Tofu, Takoyaki, Udon Noodles Hot + Cold, Baked Yuzu Cheesecake This was such a great meal!! Worth the wait. We showed up on a weekday for a dinner for 3. We waited about an hour for a table --it's a small place and they are so busy! But we loved the izakaya setting and the seating. The staff were so efficient and kind. I can't remember everything we ordered, but everything was great! We definitely way over-ordered though. Highlights for me were the karaage, the tofu, and the udon noodles. The cooked fish dishes were okay but not amazing. Overall great experience! read more

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A TRUE GEM! I've been here twice now, and both visits have been impeccable! The ladies are always very attentive and check up on you to keep your orders coming through! Ambiance is lively and friendly! Food is so DELICIOUS!! I usually get chef's choice & grilled squid during my visits. The food is always grilled and made perfectly! They added some new menu items since my last visit 3yrs ago, and the new menu items were great! Sashimi was fresh! My favorites were the beef tongue and wagyu beef skewers. I've been here with friends, and I've also dined alone! Both times were at the bar! I absolutely enjoy this restaurant and cannot recommend it enough! Great vibes and even greater food!! read more

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Very disappointed. Spent 25 bucks on a portion of curry with some katsu and the portion for both was extremely small and below expectations. I've had much better curry literally anywhere else for almost half the price. Definitely avoid these items read more

Mr Max - Pork katsu - Sushi Bars Near Me - Irving, Texas

The sunken floor seating is so unique! felt a real izakaya in japan lol. ramen broth was rick and flavorful. definitely worth going to!

I love this restaurant but it's hard to get a seat so you have to show up early and be prepared to wait! Everything I've tried has been excellent. read more

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Hidden gem! Delicious and authentic! Small plates to share! Staff very friendly and reasonably priced.

Very cute inside. Hard to get reservations. Walk in seemed really hard Chicken karage was the best and favorite. Everything was pretty good read more

Such a solid spot for a fantastic dinner. Everything tasted great, came out fresh and hot, and the menu selection is excellent. The staff is very friendly and efficient, and the environment is cozy and inviting. A very dependable 4-star dining experience! read more

The food here was decent and the portions were fair. Service and atmosphere were pretty average nothing bad, but nothing that particularly stood out as exceptional either. A solid, middle-of-the-road experience overall. read more

Love going to Mr.Max!!! The food is amazing. Great atmosphere and the service is always great. read more

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This place is fantastic. It's easy to miss from the outside, and doesn't look like what you might expect, but ignore all of that and have a meal if you can -- SO worth it. They don't do reservations and are only open short hours so plan to be there right at 5 when they open; the place fills up almost instantly. You will be immersed in a traditional setting with truly unforgettable authentic cuisine! Several of my colleagues mentioned that when they travel to the area for work, they specially plan one night around eating here. That kind of planning from regular business travelers told me this was going to be a great meal and this place did not disappoint! I have added this to my must-visit places and can't wait to eat here again. read more

Went here on a weekday and the wait was about 30 minutes or less. Not too bad. It is a small area and can get crowded. If you're seated at a table, you are required to take off your shoes and Indian style if needed. I was putting back on my shoes to go bathroom but the waiter had told me I can use the house slippers. I did not know how I felt just because it's been on someone else feet. Food was good. I was expecting more sushi but nonetheless still good. The beef skewers was the best! read more

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Mr. Max never disappoints! Every dish is cooked to perfection and my favorite dish is honestly the yuzu onion slices lol... Service is really great, everyone was very accommodating and nice. And Mr. Max is always busy so be sure to come early read more

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Went before they opened their new location, but Mr Max is a crazy busy for a reason. When we arrived, was told that it would be approximately a 30-45 minute wait for 2 people. Since this was a "must-try", we left our number, went to grab dessert, and came back with time to spare. We were sat at the counter but I was definitely a little jealous of the groups that got to sit at the traditional style Japanese tables with tatami. We ordered a variety of dishes including takoyaki, yakitori, and karaage. Everything was delicious. Tasty with a lot of classic Japanese flare. I do wish the karaage and takoyaki were a little bit crispier. Service was great and the atmosphere was comfortable but busy. I'll definitely have to come back again to try the other menu items. It's too bad our stomachs only have so much space! read more

Mr Max - Takoyaki, yakitori - Sushi Bars Near Me - Irving, Texas

The best Japanese restaurant I've been to in Texas. We were lucky enough to dine when they had Tuna Collar. What a treat!! The restaurant is super small, but the vibe is perfection. So plan ahead and either make a reservation or arrive and get in line before they open. Be ready to take your shoes off to be seated. Every plate was tasty! read more

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Arigatou amigos! I loved the experience by dining here. I felt like I was in Japan. The staff was friendly. The wait was shorter than expected. Will definitely be going back! read more

This place is all sashimi, no sushi. It's a real deal Japanese-style restaurant, a good drinking place (Izakaya) It was a Wednesday night, and it had a consistent clientele. It serves authentic Japanese cuisine, since the restaurant is in Dallas, it has to have some hakujin cuisine. Good food but the price is a little on the high side. If I'm in Dallas again. I would definitely revisit this establishment again ... read more

Mr. Max is such a unique dining experience. It feels authentic and fun. My party of 2 went around 8 on a Saturday night and sat at the bar. We tried multiple dishes, but I really loved the quality of their sashimi. The green tea chuhai was my favorite beverage. Each dish came out quickly. I would've preferred a slower pacing and I felt rushed. I'd stagger my orders next time. Overall, the food is delicious and it's a good spot for light, quality eating. read more

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Long wait but worth the wait. Out of everything we got, the standouts were the Grilled Beef Tongue, grilled pork belly, the octopus balls, and the sashimi. I'd go back and try all the different dishes. So many things look good. read more

I had a really frustrating experience here. The restaurant closes at 9, so we called at 8 to confirm they were still open, and they said yes. We got there shortly after, well before closing, only to be told by the hostess that our party of three couldn't be served. There was no clear explanation, and it felt really unprofessional and dismissive. If you're not going to seat guests that close to closing time, that should be communicated upfront--not after confirming you're open and having people show up. Definitely disappointing. read more

It was a 1.5 hour wait for 2 ppl when we got there at 6:00pm on a tuesday which was lowkey expected for this place since we heard about its popularity and small site. Food was alright, overall nothing was super good to the point we would return just for it, everything was just a little bit better than average. we got the blue fin tuna sashimi, salmon sashimi, takoyaki, grilled shishito peppers, steamed monkfish liver, taiwan ramen, agedashi tofu. Service was great however, once u got past the busy front, everyone was super nice and it took only 7 mins for our food to come out. read more

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This place is everything everyone says it is! Amazing!!! Authentic Japanese experience. I loved it so much I want to visit Japan now. Price: Everything was so affordable! I was shocked at our bill when it came! Everything you see was $98 Vibes: The restaurant is small and intimate and has two separate areas you can sit at. You can sit at the bar type seating or at a "table" that follows traditional Japanese culture where you take your shoes off and sit on a pillow. I really wish I could have enjoyed the sit down experience, but I came around 8pm on a Friday evening and the wait was an hour and the only available seating was at the bar area. I did not see anyone get sat at the table after we came. So if you want to sit down, go at 7pm or earlier. Perfect for small groups of 4 (maybe 5) or less! Service: Everyone works together to serve you, and was so kind. Food came promptly. Food: The menu was more a la carte style so I ordered a few things at a time and staggered the meal. Everything was AMAZING!!! I don't think I've ever been to a place where every single dish is great. I'm not familiar with Japanese food, so everything was new for me except the Ramen. I don't think you can go wrong with any item off the menu. I got the Peach Chuhai, which is an alcoholic beverage, and it was so good! 100/10!!! read more

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This authentic Izakaya is a gem tucked in an unassuming strip mall in Irving, Texas. With cozy tatami seating, you slip off your shoes, step up, and settle in for some seriously good eats. Known for its top-notch sashimi and flavor-packed takoyaki, this spot has earned the No. 72 spot on Yelp's national list--and it's well deserved! The grilled yellowtail with teriyaki is a must-try: tender, juicy, and just the right amount of sweetness. For something a little adventurous, the Tako Wasabi offers a punch of wasabi with raw octopus; it's a small portion but delivers on flavor. My favorite? The pan-fried squid with gut sauce--massive, bold, and deeply satisfying. Service is quick, prices are fair, and it's packed even on weekdays. I'll absolutely be back for more! read more

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Plan for around an hour wait if you go without a reservation - this restaurant has a really cozy atmosphere so there's not as many tables available to seat everyone at once. My sashimi was fresh and the ramen was good, too. Next time, I'd add a spice bomb for some extra flavor! read more

Mr Max - Yellowtail Sashimi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Irving, Texas

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I really don't want to say it but... it was so mid and overhyped. Here's what we ordered: 1) Salmon sashimi (10/10) 2) Grilled squid - (if you never had squid you might like it. As someone who has this for lunch very often in my Asian household, skip this dish 3/10) 3) Tonkotsu Ramen - super water down ramen. Worst dish we had despite the glowing reviews online. Idk what went wrong...(-2/10) 4) Takoyaki - mid (3/10) 5) Beef Bowl: 9/10 would order again 6) 3 assorted appetizers chef's choice: one of the better dishes (8/10) 7) Karaage Chicken: don't be basic, skip this. Nothing special here (3/10) Service: food came out quick and the waitress were attentive After waiting for 2 hours from 5:30pm-7:30pm, my boyfriend and I were starving and at this point anything would have been good BUT we were still disappointed. That's how overhyped this place was - major lacked of seasoning... read more

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This is one of the few spots I always have to visit few times a year. Once you step into the front door, it transports you to Japan. The atmosphere and food is amazing and can't wait to come back for more. My personal favorite is their eel omelette! If you like unagi sushi, this taste way better :) read more

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