Today, we’re sitting down with Maxwell “Max” Coleman, the celebrated food blogger and journalist behind some of the most mouthwatering content on the web. Known for his sharp wit, discerning palate, and passion for culinary exploration, Max has carved out a niche for himself as a voice to be reckoned with in the food world. As he moves into his new loft in RVA’s Shockoe Bottom, we caught up with him to chat about food, life, and everything in between. Maxwell is a main character in the upcoming novel “Electric.”
Q: Welcome, Max! Let’s dive right in—what inspired your passion for food? Max: Thanks for having me! Honestly, food was always a big part of my life growing up. I come from a pretty diverse neighborhood, so I was surrounded by all these incredible flavors and dishes from different cultures. Food became more than just something to eat; it was a way to connect with people and experience their stories. That love for food only grew over time, and now I get to write about it and share those experiences with others. It’s like the best job in the world.
Q: Your blog has taken off in recent years. What do you think sets your approach apart from other food bloggers? Max: I think it’s a mix of things. First, I’m super curious—I love getting into the nitty-gritty of a dish, finding out what makes it tick. It’s not just about how it tastes, but the story behind it, the technique, the creativity. Also, I try to be really supportive of local chefs and restaurants. RVA has an incredible food scene that’s often overlooked, and I love being able to spotlight the talent here.
Q: You recently moved to RVA from Norfolk. What brought you to the River City? Max: RVA just felt like the perfect place for a fresh start. I’ve been through some tough stuff in the last few years, and this city has this amazing energy—creative, a little gritty, but full of heart. Plus, my new videographer lives nearby in Church Hill, and we’re really taking the blog to the next level with her professional touch. It’s an exciting new chapter.
Q: Let’s talk astrology for a second—you’re a Leo. Do you think your zodiac sign influences how you approach life and your work? Max: Oh, 100%. (laughs) Leos are known for being passionate, and that’s definitely me when it comes to food. I throw myself into everything I do, whether it’s trying a new dish or writing a review. Leos are also all about loyalty and shining a light on others, which I like to think I do by supporting local chefs and restaurants. We’re natural leaders, but that can come with a bit of ego too, and I won’t lie—I’ve had my struggles with that.
Q: You’ve mentioned some personal challenges—how have they shaped who you are today? Max: Yeah, I’ve faced some pretty serious stuff. A few years ago, I was injured during a political protest at UVA. That experience left me with physical injuries and emotional trauma that I’m still working through. My passion for food helped pull me out of some dark places—it gave me something to focus on, something positive.
Q: How does your journey influence the content you create? Max: It’s all connected. I think my readers see that I’m not just writing about food for the sake of it. There’s a depth to the work, whether it’s talking about the artistry of a dish or supporting a restaurant that’s struggling. I know what it’s like to have to rebuild, and I feel that same resilience in the food world, especially with local chefs who pour their heart and soul into what they do. I try to bring that authenticity into my work.
Q: What’s next for you? Max: I’m really excited to keep growing the blog with my videographer in Church Hill. We’re pushing out some great content, and I want to dive even deeper into the local food scene here in RVA. Beyond that, I’m focusing on staying healthy and working through my recovery. Life’s a journey, and I’m just taking it one step—and one dish—at a time.
Q: Any last words for your readers? Max: Just keep exploring! Whether it’s a new restaurant or a dish you’ve never tried, food has this incredible power to connect us and help us grow. And to my fellow foodies in RVA and beyond, thanks for sticking with me on this wild ride. There’s a lot more to come!
Max Coleman’s journey from food lover to influential blogger is as complex and layered as the dishes he writes about. We’re thrilled to see where his passion takes him next!
#RVAFoodScene #MaxColeman #FoodBlogger #LeoEnergy #BehindTheScenes
Preorder your copy of Electric today at your favorite online retailer.
Ian O. Lewis and Luke Jameson 