t’s no secret that pretty much any carnivorous straight man would count his lucky stars on a day he got to eat a juicy steak while goggling scantily clad dancing girls. Leigh Torlage and J.D. Henderson, the new co-owners of Maxine’s Hideaway, have decided to capitalize on human nature. However, women are welcome to attend and enjoy the show as well, which is the main thing that sets Maxine’s apart from her more salacious competition. You know, the lap dancing holes in the wall where men are allowed to disrespect women for a significant sum. Maxine`s isn’t like that. At Maxine’s, the burlesque is a simple result of evolution.

In the 1920’s the historical building was home to “Maxine’s Beauty and Boarding School for Girls” which, during the recession, became a bawdy house and a vessel for illegal moonshine. With Balthazar, the previous restaurant occupying the venue, shuttering its doors, the way has been made for Leigh and her Candy Girl Cabaret.

There is a live show every night by the girls dressed in their knee-highs, bras, panties and not much more. They dance and sing such burlesque favourites as the Roxanne tango from Moulin Rouge and I Want Candy, naturally. I`ve heard of restaurants displaying provocative art as an appetite-inducing tactic but this is taking it to a new level, which is a good thing, because Maxine`s menu is very interesting.

Executive Chef Collin Robertson has created an eclectic menu that features local ingredients and west coast cuisine. In addition to a few tasty gourmet pizzas, there are a few intriguing options that stand out on the card. The ostrich carpaccio with shavings of Manchago cheese, truffle mayo and jack fruit ($13) is one of those things you try for the hell of it and wind up pleasantly surprised. The hoisin duck tacos are along the same vein. Stuffed with edamame guacamole, smoked chili cream, pineapple relish and fresh jalapeños ($15) these are definitely the most off-the-wall tacos you’ll ever have. Pasta Putanesca ($17) (Italian for whore`s pasta) was a must-have, I suppose, considering the kind of entertainment the joint has to offer. Another favourite main is the house`s classic local sockeye salmon fillet in a lemon butter sauce with wilted organic arugula and baby potatoes ($19).

For a first date spot, Maxine’s Hideaway is certainly an ice breaker and, if the conversation dries up, the live entertainment will simply take over. Maxine’s is a feast for the senses that is worth a visit. We only hope, for the sake of women everywhere, that Leigh starts to incorporate male dancers in amongst the ladies sometime real soon. –J.T.