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ABOUT
Discover Max a Mia Ristorante - Avon, CT
Since opening in 1991, Max a Mia has been named "Best New Restaurant" by Connecticut Magazine in its inaugural year and recognized as the "top-grossing restaurant in its size" by Restaurant Hospitality. The vision originally crafted by Richard Rosenthal and Brad Karsky aimed to deliver a casual yet authentic Italian bistro experience - one that quikcly became a touchstone in Greater Hartford. Today, under the direction of Executive Chef Bob Peterson and General Manager Liz Guarino, both Max Hospitality veterans, Max a Mia continues to thrive - blending beloved traditional dishes with exciting, modern touches.
Why Visit Max a Mia?
At Max a Mia, we believe great food starts with simple, high-quality ingredients. From our signature stone pies to handmade pastas and other classic Italian specialties, every dish is prepared with care, passion, and a touch of creativity.
Max a Mia offers the authentic warmth of Italian dining with dishes that strike a beautiful balance between traditional and creative. Locals and visitors alike return for comforting classics.
OUR TEAM

Bob Peterson
Executive Chef
Bob has been perfecting his culinary craft within Max Hopsitality since joining Max Fish as Sous Chef in 2011. In 2018, he moved to Max’ Oyster Bar and took over as Executive Chef. Now, as the Executive Chef at Max a Mia Ristorante, Bob brings his passion for Italian food to the restaurant and will be adding some new and exciting dishes to the menu.

Liz Guarino
General Manager
Liz's passion for hospitality and restaurants began when she started part-time as a host at Texas Roadhouse during her college years. After climbing the ranks there and graduating with a Bachelor's degree in History Education, Liz transitioned to a local restaurant group as a member of the management team. Driven by a passion for the hospitality world, she found her way to Max Hospitality, first as manager and then General Manager at Max Fish in Glastonbury. In 2025, she moved over to Max a Mia and is excited about the many opportunities in Avon at the restaurant to channel her passion into extraordinary dining experiences, private events and the inner workings of the hospitality business.

Careers
Max Hospitality
Max Hospitality is always looking to expand our team. We offer competitive wages, a generous benefits package, flexible hours and the opportunity to grow with the company. Join the most respected restaurant group in Southern New England and you will have the opportunity to experience and learn the hospitality industry from visionary Chefs and seasoned Restaurant Managers. Max Hospitality is an equal-opportunity employer.
For more information about the current open positions at Max A Mia and other Max restaurants, visit the Max Hospitality website.