A new barbecue restaurant in Waltham opened its doors in September, offering a blend of traditional barbecue flavors and contemporary comfort food. Maple + High, located at 482 Moody Street, is co-owned and led by chef Dan Lane, who has a long history in the regional culinary scene and barbecue competitions.

Lane, who previously worked at the now-closed Bison County in Waltham and currently serves as executive chef and co-owner of the Tack Room in Lincoln, brings his extensive experience in barbecue and American cuisine to the new establishment. The restaurant’s concept draws on barbecue styles from Memphis to the Carolinas, complemented by locally sourced seafood from Boston’s Seawitch at Fish Pier.

The menu features both familiar comfort food and inventive dishes, such as alligator chorizo, southern fried catfish bites, and venison Texas “Twinkies”—a creative take on a classic dessert using smoked venison wrapped in prosciutto with cream cheese and blueberry coulis. Traditional items like cornbread and mac-and-cheese with buttery crumble topping are also available.

Maple + High aims to be family friendly, with an extensive children’s menu developed by Lane’s high school-aged daughter. Options go beyond the typical chicken tenders and include items like a Belgian waffle paired with buttermilk-brined fried chicken breast, praised for its juicy meat and light, crunchy breading. The restaurant’s sauces, including a notably sweet and fruity candy apple barbecue sauce, have received positive mentions.

Signature dishes noted by early diners include baby-back ribs described as falling off the bone and a vinegar-based, spicy coleslaw seasoned with Cajun spices and cilantro, which serves as a refreshing contrast to the richer dishes. However, some items, such as the fries, have drawn mild criticism for being under-seasoned.

The beverage program features cocktails with an autumnal focus, including a Mai Tai inspired by a local Watertown establishment, as well as seasonal drinks like pumpkin espresso and caramel apple martinis. A bourbon-based Gilded Apple cocktail combining apple cider and maple syrup rounds out the offerings.

Maple + High provides seating for families and groups, takes reservations for parties of six or more, and offers online ordering for takeout. Prices range from small plates starting at $7 to main courses beginning at $17, positioning the restaurant as an accessible dining option on Moody Street.

With its blend of barbecue roots and comfort food innovations, Maple + High seeks to establish itself as a neighborhood gathering spot emphasizing approachable, hearty fare for a diverse clientele.