The Early Word on Maxwell Park

Wine guru Brent Kroll is finally doing his own thing at new arrival Maxwell Park, which debuted June 26 at 1336 Ninth Street NW.

Kroll is joined in this latest Shaw venture by Fat Baby, Inc., president (he also owns Proof) turned Maxwell Park co-founder Max Kuller. The 33-seat bar counts two other wine pros as partners: Voltaggio Brothers Steak House alum Niki Lang and Iron Gate vet Daniel Runnerstrom.

An opening theme of “anything but pinot grigio” showcases Italian whites other than the supermarket staple. The temperature-controlled pours are divided into categories including: light, three shades of medium (from mildly fruity to “textural”), and full.

The food, developed by chef Tony Conte, who last worked with Kroll at the Oval Room, is mostly bar snacks (spicy olives, charcuterie, beet tartare with mango, chili, and lime).

Here’s what the public is saying, just a few weeks in:

The New Neighbor News: Yelper Steven G. calls it an “amazing new addition in Shaw (and DC for that matter). The owner and team really know their stuff and I've already discovered a few new kinds of wine that I've never had (or heard of before)!” Facebooker Matthew Fisk notes the “fantastic service. Great food. Exceptional wine service. Very polished all-around. A solid, unpretentious, neighborhood gem.” [Yelp, Facebook]

The TBD News: Washingtonian notes, “In the coming months, the themed list will explore sparkling wines (sans Champagne) and slight skin contact pinks and oranges’ (a.k.a. orange wine and rosé).” [Washingtonian]

The Pairings News: Yelper Sarah P. enjoyed duck prosciutto and smoked trout. “They were so perfect to pair with the wines as we sat out on the uncrowded patio and watched people with their dogs stroll by.” Instagrammer @jigolden says, “The summer corn and cherry tomatoes with avocado, radish, pumpkin seeds, and blue cheese is .” [Yelp, Instagram]

The Cute AF News: Yelper Evelyn M. says, “The ambiance is very cute and romantic. This would be a good date spot. All the wine the bartender suggested was so good. The service was superb. I think this has become my new favorite wine bar!” [Yelp]

The Home Sweet Home News: Facebooker Michael Beckner says Maxwell, “Hits all the marks: F&B, service and that X factor of hospitality that makes you feel it's always been there, and you're right at home.” Instagrammer K.E.M.Q says, “By all means, please keep opening amazing wine bars and wine shops within two square blocks of my apartment.” [Facebook, Instagram]

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