Table-service at CVG actually exists: that’s Max & Erma’s
Post-security in the Main terminal, Max & Erma’s is the sit-down bar-and-grill option when you want more than a pre-wrapped sandwich and chips. It runs like a normal casual restaurant inside the concourse, with servers, a full menu, and a bar where you can eat if you want to keep an eye on the departure screens.
Food is standard American: burgers, salads, sandwiches, and a few heavier plates, usually in the $12–$20 range for mains. Think patty melts, chicken tenders, loaded nachos, and big salads instead of chef-y small plates. Portions skew large by airport standards, so one main can easily cover a normal meal before a 2–3 hour flight.
There’s a full bar with draft beer, basic cocktails, and wine by the glass, most drinks landing around $8–$14. The bar area works well if you’re solo and have 45–60 minutes before boarding, since you can usually get in and out faster there than at a regular table. TVs behind the bar stay tuned to sports and news, so it doubles as a place to park during delays.
Service pace is airport-variable, but you should budget at least 40 minutes curb-to-check if you want a sit-down meal here before a domestic Main terminal departure. If your flight boards in under 30 minutes, stick to the bar and order something quick like wings or a burger, rather than anything that needs extra prep or customization.
One practical tip: ask your server when you sit down how long the current kitchen ticket time is and mention your exact boarding time. At CVG’s Max & Erma’s, that quick check up front is the difference between a relaxed burger and fries and sprinting to your Main terminal gate with half a club sandwich in a to-go box.