Unearth The Voyage
Wisconsin might be famous for cheese curds and bratwurst, but one Milwaukee restaurant has mastered a Southern classic that keeps locals coming back for more. Maxie’s Southern Comfort has been serving up authentic shrimp and grits since 2007, earning a devoted following among cheese-state diners. Finding genuine Southern cuisine in the Midwest can be tricky, but this spot has cracked the code with flavors that transport you straight to the Gulf Coast.
1. What exactly you’re getting
Maxie’s keeps their shrimp and grits refreshingly simple yet incredibly satisfying. Gulf shrimp takes center stage, paired with creamy yellow grits and a bold tasso sauce that brings the heat.
No fancy garnishes or trendy twists here—just honest Southern cooking done right. The tasso sauce, made with spiced ham, adds a smoky richness that complements the sweet shrimp perfectly.
Each bite delivers the comfort food experience you’re craving, with ingredients that speak for themselves without unnecessary complications.
2. It’s not a one-off
Many restaurants tease you with shrimp and grits as a weekend brunch special, only to snatch it away when you’re ready to order. Maxie’s understands that true love shouldn’t be limited to certain days of the week.
This signature dish holds a permanent spot on both their regular menu and online ordering system. Consistency matters when you’re building a reputation, and locals appreciate knowing they can satisfy their craving any day.
That reliability has turned casual diners into regular customers who confidently recommend the dish to friends and visitors.
3. The restaurant’s DNA matches the dish
Since opening in 2007, Maxie’s has stayed true to its Southern roots with authentic Cajun, Creole, and Low Country flavors. This isn’t a restaurant trying to jump on a trendy bandwagon—Southern cooking is literally their specialty.
When a kitchen has spent over fifteen years perfecting gumbo, jambalaya, and fried chicken, their shrimp and grits benefits from that deep understanding of regional flavors. The seasoning techniques and ingredient knowledge transfer seamlessly across their entire menu.
That authentic foundation shows in every spoonful, creating the kind of dish that actually tastes like it came from the South.
4. There’s genuine local praise
Milwaukee diners have been singing the praises of Maxie’s shrimp and grits for years across multiple review platforms. The phrase “worth the drive” appears repeatedly in customer feedback, which says everything about the dish’s reputation.
Real locals don’t just mention the restaurant—they specifically call out the shrimp and grits as a standout item. These aren’t paid promotions or fake reviews, but genuine enthusiasm from people who’ve tried the competition.
When Midwestern diners consistently praise a Southern dish, you know the kitchen is doing something special that transcends regional expectations.
5. Make a plan (and a res)
Smart diners book ahead through OpenTable or Tock, especially during prime dinner hours when the restaurant fills up quickly. Both platforms show recent customer ratings, giving you real-time feedback from fellow diners.
Peak times can get busy, and nothing’s worse than craving shrimp and grits only to face a long wait. Making a reservation ensures you’ll actually get to enjoy your meal without the stress of hoping for an open table.
The booking process takes just a few minutes but saves you potential disappointment, especially on weekends when locals and visitors compete for seats.
6. Pairings that work
If you’re dining with others, Maxie’s entire Southern lineup creates perfect harmony on your table. Fresh oysters make an excellent starter, while their famous gumbo offers a complementary flavor profile that won’t compete with your grits.
The fried chicken deserves special mention—crispy, seasoned perfection that shares the same kitchen philosophy as the shrimp and grits. Everything works together like a well-planned Southern feast.
Sharing multiple dishes lets your group experience the full range of flavors that make Maxie’s reputation, turning dinner into a proper Southern celebration.
7. Address & basics
You’ll find Maxie’s at 6732 W Fairview Ave in Milwaukee, but always check their current hours before making the trip. Restaurant schedules can shift with the seasons, and nobody wants to drive across town to find closed doors.
Their website provides up-to-date operating hours and any special announcements about temporary changes. Taking thirty seconds to verify hours online saves you from potential disappointment and wasted gas money.
The location is easily accessible, but like any popular restaurant, timing your visit right makes all the difference in your overall experience.
