We recently visited Muscatine and had brunch at Maxwell's at the Merrill with two other couples. The restaurant is in the Merrill Hotel, which is right on the riverfront. The views when seated by the windows are really nice--you can watch the barges and other boats go by, and you can also see the bridge, which is lit up during the evening hours. We were seated quickly (although it is better to make a reservation). I ordered an apple pie sangria (their limited-time specialty drink) and it was delicious--one of the best cocktails that I have ever had. My husband had a burger and said that it was very good, and it included a ton of fries. I had the chicken and pancakes, which included a pecan-crusted chicken breast with maple bourbon cream. It was absolutely delicious! If you are in Muscatine and looking for a nice meal with good views, Maxwells is the place for you!
Overview
If you're looking for a relaxed and charming dining experience by the river, Maxwell's On The River in Muscatine, IA, should be at the top of your list. Nestled along the scenic banks of the Mississippi River at 119 W Mississippi Dr, this cozy restaurant offers a perfect blend of flavorful cuisine, great service, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a casual meal with friends, or simply soaking in the stunning river views, Maxwell's provides an experience that's hard to match in the area.
The restaurant prides itself on its diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. From classic American favorites to more contemporary dishes, there's something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty steak, fresh seafood, or a delicious pasta dish, Maxwell's has you covered. Popular options like their signature steaks, grilled to perfection, and the delectable seafood platters are always crowd-pleasers. Their salads are crisp and refreshing, offering a great start to any meal.
One of the things that sets Maxwell's On The River apart is its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Many of the dishes are made with ingredients from nearby farms and local markets, ensuring that every meal is not only delicious but also supports the local community. The chefs here focus on creating dishes that are bursting with flavor and are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
For those who love a good drink to pair with their meal, Maxwellβs boasts a well-curated selection of craft beers, fine wines, and signature cocktails. The drink menu is designed to complement the flavors of the food, with options for every taste. Whether you're enjoying a refreshing summer cocktail on the patio or a rich glass of red wine with your meal, you'll find the perfect pairing to elevate your dining experience.
Maxwell's also stands out with its inviting atmosphere. The restaurantβs design blends rustic charm with modern touches, creating a warm and welcoming space. Large windows throughout the dining area offer breathtaking views of the Mississippi River, making it a great spot to dine while watching the sunset or simply enjoying the tranquil river scenery. Whether you're seated inside or on the outdoor patio, the ambiance at Maxwell's is perfect for a relaxing meal.
Customer reviews often highlight the attentive service and friendly staff, making it a go-to spot for those looking for a restaurant with a personal touch. The staff is known for going above and beyond to ensure every guest feels welcomed and well taken care of. It's clear that the team at Maxwellβs is passionate about providing a top-notch dining experience for every visitor.
In addition to regular dining, Maxwell's On The River also offers catering services for events, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. Whether you're hosting a wedding, a corporate event, or a family reunion, the restaurantβs catering team is dedicated to delivering high-quality food and exceptional service, making any event memorable.
For those visiting Muscatine or the surrounding area, Maxwell's On The River is an essential dining destination. Whether you're a local or just passing through, the restaurantβs combination of great food, excellent service, and scenic views makes it a must-visit. With a menu that satisfies a variety of tastes and a location that offers a peaceful escape by the river, Maxwellβs is the kind of place that keeps people coming back for more.
Good to know
From the business
β Identifies as women-ownedService options
β Outdoor seating β No-contact delivery β Delivery β Takeaway β Dine-inHighlights
β Fast service β Fireplace β Great beer selection β Great cocktails β Great coffee β Great dessert β Serves local specialtyPopular for
β Breakfast β Lunch β Dinner β Solo diningAccessibility
β Wheelchair-accessible car park β Wheelchair-accessible entrance β Wheelchair-accessible seating β Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
β Alcohol β Beer β Cocktails β Coffee β Comfort food β Healthy options β Small plates β Spirits β Vegetarian options β WineDining options
β Breakfast β Brunch β Lunch β Dinner β Catering β Dessert β Seating β Table serviceAmenities
β Bar on site β Toilet β Wi-Fi β Wi-FiAtmosphere
β Casual β Cosy β TrendyCrowd
β Family friendly β Groups β LGBTQ+ friendly β Tourists β Transgender safe spacePlanning
β Accepts reservationsPayments
β Credit cards β Debit cards β Credit cardsChildren
β Good for kids β High chairs β Kids' menuParking
β Free multi-storey car park β Free of charge street parking β Free parking lot β Parking β Valet parkingPets
β Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
Location
Reviews
Very nice atmosphere restaurant. The service was fair. Not excellent. We sat at the bar and the waitress seemed distracted by other people every time we tried to order. We had to wait about 10 minutes to order until she was finally squared away. I donβt know if they were short of help or she just Considered other people were more priority but either way the food was excellent. Very far overpriced but still very good food. I had the salmon with a side of onion soup and also aside of their specialty button mushrooms. The value though isnβt quite what I expected. Very nice atmosphere. Very eclectic, very modern and decorated very tastefully. I came here in mid January and they still had seasonal decorations up from Christmas, which made it still very nice atmosphere.
Arrived here for supper. We were seated right away. Staff was attentive and friendly. Drinks, appetizer, and entrΓ©e came out in a timely manner and were excellent. A long walk to the clean restroom. (Restaurant is basically in the hotel lobby, and the restrooms are near the pool.) It's a bit pricey but take your date.
My first time visiting Muscatine and I have to tell you this place is a must if you want to enjoy a good burger by the river. Staff is great and everything tastes amazing. You should definitely try the polenta!
This has to be one of the best meals I have ever had!! They started us off with a strawberry bouche mousse to excite our palate. It was so lite and fruity. I donβt think I needed it to appreciate this meal however. I had crab cakes- the mustard sauce was so good. Then the berry salad- best salad Iβve ever had- it was so flavorful with berries and dressing with added crunchy chunks of toffee. The main coarse was fillet mignon- the best! I didnβt need to have teeth to eat this! So tender and perfectly seasoned. Our waiter was Evan. What a sweetheart! Our view was over the river and ambiance was wonderful. How can this place not be overflowing every night? My husband brought me here for my birthday and what a treat it was. Highest rating possible for this place!
Amazing food, friendly service, and conveniently located inside the beautiful Merrill hotel overlooking the river. Love the menu with a mix of unique options and more "normal" options for a variety of palettes. The food was beautiful and delicious. The environment was both peaceful and upscale. We stayed at the Merrill hotel and returned to Maxwell's for brunch the next morning, and I was once again impressed.
We come here quite often for Saturday brunch. All of the entrees are always delicious and the Bloody Marys are as well!
Nice sit down next to the hotel lobby. We did the brunch menue. The breakfast burger was delicious. But the chicken fried stake wasn't that great and the bloody marry was overpriced for vodka and store bought bloody mary mix.