Portland, Maine and its surrounding areas are known for offering an eclectic mix of cuisine, ranging from freshly caught Maine lobster to authentic Mexican food and Italian markets and bakeries. French cuisine is no exception, though there are few French restaurants in Portland. While a restaurant that serves solely French food may be difficult to find, it's easy to find French-style restaurants that are influenced by Asian, Tuscan or American cuisine.
Restaurant Evangeline, located in Portland's West End in Longfellow Square, opened in 2008 and serves French cuisine made from locally grown or caught ingredients. Restaurant Evangeline's menu includes appetizers such as quail, short rib and endive, as well as main dishes such as mussels, steak frites and canard presse (duck). The dessert menu features French favorites like crème brûlée and profiteroles. The menu also includes a selection of fine cheeses. There is also a wine list, cocktails and liqueurs that vary based on the season.
On Monday nights, Restaurant Evangeline offers a special three-course, prix fixe menu prepared by chef Erik Desjarlais or chef Krista Desjarlais, who runs Bresca, another local restaurant.
Evangeline
190 State St.
Portland, ME 04101
207-791-2800
restaurantevangeline.com
Joseph's by the Sea is located about 20 minutes south of Portland in Old Orchard Beach. This home-turned-restaurant serves French-American dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Joseph's by the Sea's menu consists of many seafood dishes, most of which are made from locally caught fish, lobster, scallops and mussels. Menu choices include the "Best of Both Worlds" dish, which consists of tenderloin and lobster, roast half duck and lobster potato pancakes. Additionally, Joseph's offers a special Sunday brunch menu filled with crepes and dishes like eggs sardot and crab and Swiss fritatta.
Joseph's by the Sea offers banquet and buffet options for those looking to host wedding receptions, birthdays or corporate parties. Banquet menu choices include a Lobster Shore Dinner, which comes with steamed clams, lobster and fish chowder. Banquet diners can also choose from various buffet stations and sit-down options. The dining rooms offer views of the coast or the garden.
Joseph's by the Sea Restaurant
55 West Grand Ave.
Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064
207-934-5044
josephsbythesea.com
SeaGrass Bistro, located in Yarmouth just a few miles from Portland, is an American-style bistro with French, Tuscan and Asian flavors. According to SeaGrass Bistro's website, chef Stephanie Brown believes in creating an experience for her patrons that is all about the food and tastes themselves---not just the choices on the menu. For that reason, the menu at SeaGrass is constantly changing based on fresh ingredients. Entrees can include lobster, lamb and cod, while salads sometimes include ingredients such as grilled asparagus and roasted peppers. The restaurant offers cooking classes on Tuesday nights as well as private cooking classes on request. SeaGrass also caters. The restaurant is large enough to accommodate rehearsal dinners and private parties.
SeaGrass Bistro
30 Forest Falls Dr.
Yarmouth, ME 04096
207-846-3885
seagrassbistro.com
