Ann's Bistro — Restaurant in Damariscotta

Such a sweet place! We were looking for somewhere to eat before catching a show at the Waldo (also lovely). We're from an hour south and weren't sure what would be open in the dead of winter - what a pleasant surprise! The decor is really cute and thoughtful - it's clear that there's a lot of personal flair. The service was attentive and welcoming. The menu was the perfect size with the emphasis on fresh veg and proteins. Plenty of options for folks with different tastes. Both of our dishes were spot-on: The pasta with lobster tail was cooked perfectly (seriously - it might be a simple dish, but cooks know how hard it is to get the balance right), and the salmon burger was freshly made - with a lovely side of pickled fruit and veg that paired SO WELL with the earthy salmon. Again, dead of winter. The prices are a little spendy, but whatever. This isn't Moody's. The complimentary fresh flatbread and bean spread we were served prior to our meal ALONE would have been a $10 appetizer in Portland, and the wine list was very reasonable. Honestly, just a really cute place with lovely food and follks - worth the drive for dinner and a movie if you are looking for something special. Classy food, unpretentious...

After a half-dozen visits to Ann's Book Bistro, it's clear that it's the real bistro deal. A varied, eclectic menu appropriately changes with seasonal ingredients and the chef's creativity. Even the menu classics, like the bistro burger, stand out, with a beautiful brioche bun and perfectly cooked meat and choice toppings. The bistro salad is a special delight. But if you really want to get the most out of a meal there, pick one of the daily specials. House-made pasta dishes excel, as does the classic Spanish paella for two (which I ate entirely by myself, selfish as I am). There is a cozy bar at one side of the dining room and the thousands of books lining shelves around the room give it a relaxed, comfortable ambiance. The staff is wonderfully friendly and actively care about your experience. There is also a great outdoor dining patio, built and cleverly decorated by the chef himself and a great place to eat with friends. The only downside might be the prices, but it's hard to complain when the quality is this high and you won't ever feel shortchanged. Highly recommended. Personally...

Thank you Chef Chris for delighting us with such a memorable menu for New Year's Eve -starting with the ceviche, which was sublime with subtle flavors, and continuing with the steak and seafood cooked with such attention and savored with every bite. The mushroom risotto was such a hit for us as well. To top off the experience were delicious salads and desserts! We are fortunate to have such talent within our reach. We have just moved to the area from the NYC area and have spent many evenings here -it has such a warm, cozy and inviting atmosphere. Everyone here -Chef Chris (who always takes the time to chat with us), Abby, Greg, Linda - is so warm and they make you feel like you're part of the family. It truly is top notch food, atmosphere, and service. And cocktails - you definitely get your money's...