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Max SohaBWorth Trying

Name: Max Soha
Address: 1274 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027, New York, United States
Rating: 4.5

1274 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027 · Italian restaurant · 4.5/5 Google (520 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Cozy neighborhood Italian with popular brunch and approachable pastas; good vibes but small portions and uneven service mean expectations matter.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

Max Soha delivers reliable neighborhood Italian comfort with loyal regulars and strong happy hour value, but quality varies across visits and dishes—lasagna and salmon shine while pasta can run soft or sauces bland. Service attentiveness splits between warm and inattentive, and tight quarters limit ambiance appeal despite genuine neighborhood charm near campus. Worth visiting if you're in the area and embrace the casual, variable nature of neighborhood dining.

Restaurant Summary

On Amsterdam near campus, Max Soha feels like a cozy neighborhood refuge: warm lighting, friendly greetings, and a steady hum of students and locals. One diner summed it up: "Solid comfort food and a place I keep returning to." Expect a tight but charming room where regulars trade brunch tips and servers know the rhythm, though waits at the door can happen. The cooking leans classic Italian with house touches rather than flash: homemade pastas and hearty sauces, plus brunch standbys like French toast and steak and eggs. When the kitchen hits, lasagna and salmon are crowd-pleasers; on off nights, pasta can run soft or sauces tame. Happy hour pastas at $12 are a real value if you are fine with lighter portions. Families will find plenty that kids recognize—pasta with tomato, gnocchi, pancakes, and French toast. Portions skew smaller at lunch and happy hour, which can actually suit younger eaters. Space is snug for strollers, and the room gets lively, but the menu has enough familiar choices that most children will be comfortable.

At a Glance

Cozy neighborhood vibe with loyal regulars
Happy hour pastas offer strong value
Portions often run small for the price
Service attentiveness varies by shift
Reports of automatic 20% gratuity for some parties

What Sets It Apart

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What People Love

Warm, cozy atmosphere that feels local
Reliable brunch staples and coffee
Lasagna and salmon when the kitchen is on form
Happy hour pastas that stretch the budget

Points of Concern

Portions can feel small, especially lunch and happy hour, so order accordingly
Service can be slow at seating and refills; experiences vary
Some complaints about overcooked pasta or bland sauces on off nights
Review patterns show reports of automatic 20% gratuity for certain parties; confirm policy before dining

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$38-$56 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

For vegetarians: Arugula & Pear Salad ($16.95) plus Gnocchi alla Sorrentina ($18.95)
Value route: Happy hour Fettuccine Alfredo or Penne alla Vodka ($12) with a $5 drink
Hearty path: Classic Meatballs ($13.95) then Lasagna ($23.95)

Perfect For

Casual pasta night near Columbia
Brunch with a friend before a museum stroll
Solo weekday lunch at happy hour pricing
Low-key date without the fuss

Location Insights

Area: University-adjacent corridor serving students, faculty, and neighbors; relaxed and social with steady foot traffic.

Safety: Generally safe and well-trafficked around Columbia; typical urban vigilance at night.

Nearby: Near Columbia University, residential buildings, cafes, and casual eateries along Amsterdam Ave.

Hamilton HeightsHamilton Heights offers a blend of historic brownstones and new developments, with a growing dining scene that includes casual eateries, soul food spots, and trendy cafes. The area has a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere with a focus on cultural heritage and accessibility.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday09:00–22:30 Tuesday09:00–22:30 Wednesday09:00–22:30 Thursday09:00–22:30 Friday09:00–22:30 Saturday09:00–22:30 Sunday09:00–22:30

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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