Dine and Discover Queens: Maxi Lau-O'Keefe - Maxi’s Noodle
It’s “Dine and Discover Queens” time! “Dine and Discover Queens” is a monthly spotlight on some of the best restaurants around the borough! This month’s featured eatery is Maxi’s Noodle, a great option with two locations in Flushing, one at 135-11 38th Avenue and the other at 59-20 Main Street. Maxi Lau-O'Keefe is the owner of the establishment. To learn more, go to https://maxisnoodle.com/
Maxi Lau-O'Keefe of Maxi’s Noodles
Can you share a bit about your restaurant journey in Queens?
I opened up Maxi's Noodle a few months before the global pandemic. It was a fight I refused to lose because I had poured all of my money and everything into this business, and I would not watch it fold. So, I did what I could to sustain and make it work! During the pandemic, I had to pivot to make my business work, and that's exactly what I did. I also started donating meals to my community, and they were so supportive! That is why I love Queens.
Can you share any memorable moments or experiences you've had as a restaurant owner in Queens?
Everyday is a memorable moment and experience in Queens! I love our community and everyone that comes to visit. The Queens Chamber of Commerce and Flushing BID have always been super supportive of all of the small businesses around the area. My most memorable moments are of meeting people I didn't think I would ever meet in my life like Former NYC Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell, NY Mets owner Steven Cohen, famous food critic Pete Wells, and popular chef and influencer Joshua Weissman, as well as many others!
What makes your restaurant unique?
A few things make my restaurant unique. First off, I am the first in New York to have supersized wontons. Also, my shop only specializes in noodles. We don’t sell rice or congee. My menu focuses on seven toppings and four types of noodles. I offer some of the popular Hong Kong Style street food appetizers that I grew up eating. Additionally, I have custom "duck egg noodles" that are specifically and specially made by me, and you cannot get anywhere else!
