Max Brenner Chocolate Bar*

Location :

Prototype & Flagship in Bethesda, MD

Project Size :

+/- 1,000 sf

Status :

Completed 2013

A fast casual restaurant for chocolate indulgence. Whimsical, yet practical enough for a global franchise prototype. Max Brenner the renowned chocolatier and his creations provided the inspiration. His original restaurants in New York City and Las Vegas gave historical reference.

The prototype was set to contain several features. Chocolate pipes descend into mixing drums at the entry. A specialty glass case exhibits chocolate pralines like jewels. The case backdrop is a retail experience of iconic MB products on a series of warm ebonized wood shelves. Custom booths upholstered in silky chocolate leather tufted like candy bars anchor the space giving guests a place to nestle and enjoy the offerings.

A floating bench with Max Brenner graphics on a burlap style material marks the flexible central seating area. Opposite the dining room stands the order counter. Waffle makers and baristas create a theater of activity. The well received design rolled out in major U.S. cities as well as Tokyo and Moscow.