Fantastic meal and service. Abby was our server and was informative and helpful. You’ll find many of the same items on other menus but their spin made the choices unique. Oysters were perfect, Greek salad delightful. Cornbread is the best we’ve had. Moist and flavorful. Our dining room required that we walk through the kitchen which was clean and orderly. How many places can say that? We will definitely be back!
Overview
If you find yourself in the heart of Damariscotta, Maine, and you're craving a delicious meal in a cozy yet sophisticated setting, look no further than Damariscotta River Grill. Nestled at 155 Main St., Damariscotta, ME, this charming restaurant offers a delightful dining experience, with a menu that celebrates both local flavors and international inspiration.
One of the standout features of Damariscotta River Grill is its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty seafood dish or something more land-based, you can be sure that the ingredients are of the highest quality. Maine is known for its bountiful coastal waters, and the restaurant’s seafood offerings are a true testament to that. The grilled salmon, for instance, is a favorite for many. It’s prepared with such precision that each bite is bursting with flavor, enhanced by a slight smoky char from the grill. The clams, another local delicacy, are served with a delicate broth, making for a light yet satisfying dish.
In addition to seafood, the Damariscotta River Grill offers a range of other dishes, from juicy steaks to vegetarian options. The roasted vegetable salad, drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette, is a perfect starter or side for anyone looking to enjoy something lighter without compromising on taste. And don't forget about their signature burger, which is cooked to perfection and features a blend of flavors that will have you coming back for more.
The ambiance at Damariscotta River Grill plays a big part in the experience. The interior exudes warmth with its rustic charm, featuring wood beams, exposed brick, and a comfortable layout. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in for a long, leisurely meal or enjoy a more casual, quick bite. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for both family gatherings and date nights. The staff here are equally as charming, providing attentive service with a smile, which further elevates the experience.
For those who prefer dining outdoors, the grill also offers a beautiful patio area where you can enjoy your meal while soaking up the views of the surrounding town. On a warm, sunny day, there’s no better place to be. The outdoor seating is a hit, especially during the summer months, when the town comes alive with activity and the weather is just perfect for dining al fresco.
When it comes to drinks, Damariscotta River Grill has you covered. Their carefully curated wine list offers something for every palate, whether you're in the mood for a crisp white to pair with your seafood or a rich red to complement a hearty steak. The bar also serves up a selection of cocktails, including refreshing summer options like the classic mojito or a crisp gin and tonic. If you're a fan of craft beers, you’ll be pleased to find a variety of local brews available to enhance your meal.
The dessert menu at Damariscotta River Grill is not to be overlooked. One of the most beloved options is the homemade cheesecake, which is rich yet light and perfectly balanced with a berry compote on top. It’s the ideal way to end a meal at this cozy eatery. For those who prefer something more indulgent, the chocolate lava cake will satisfy any sweet tooth.
What truly sets Damariscotta River Grill apart from other restaurants in the area is the sense of community and commitment to quality that shines through in every aspect of the dining experience. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, you’ll be treated like family, and it’s clear that the restaurant is deeply invested in offering top-notch service and delicious food.
Given its prime location on Main Street, the Damariscotta River Grill is an ideal spot to visit before or after exploring the town. Damariscotta itself is a picturesque New England village with plenty of local shops and attractions, making it a great destination for a day trip. After a stroll through town, you can enjoy a satisfying meal at the grill and reflect on the charming surroundings.
All in all, whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a romantic dinner, a casual meal with friends, or a special family outing, Damariscotta River Grill stands as a must-visit spot. With its delicious food, warm ambiance, and welcoming service, it’s easy to see why it remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine list ✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Romantic ✓ Trendy ✓ UpmarketCrowd
✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 626 reviews
Had the fish tacos, clam chowder and the mixed seafood(fish, shrimp and scallops) and fries. Everything was delicious. The clam chowder was so good I even forgot to take a picture of it. would definitely come back. The house was busy so it was hard to get a hold of our waitress, but completely understandable.
While visiting Maine we have ate mostly seafood and we are here eating and I had baked haddock. It is probably the best I’ve ever had . The rest of my family had other food on the menu and they all were pleased.
I can't say enough good things about this place. Every year, we end our Maine vacation with dinner at DRG and every year, it's a memorable experience. The pemequid oysters are amazing. So sweet and delicious. The broiled seafood was a great way to end another Maine vacation. See you next year!
Had the lobster pallela it was pretty good. The orzo in the salmon dish was a bit too acidic. Mussels were fresh and cooked well in a nice broth. Price is a bit high for what it is. Will be coming back. The tuna appetizer was amazing.
Outstanding food, ambiance and service distinguish The Damariscotta River Grill and make it a must visit for foodies, art lovers and fans of New England. We were driving from Pemiquid Lighthouse to Salem and happened to end up going through Damariscotta, Maine. The town is absolutely charming, lined with charming shops that would be enjoyable to explore. Our goal was good food and we were so happy that we chanced upon this restaurant. It’s a 2-story building, renovated to have a rustic wood and brick, comfortable, and spacious feel. The walls are covered with paintings for sale by local artists and the upstairs has a large bar area where locals seemed to be enjoying their afternoon libation. Both upstairs and downstairs have dining tables. It’s a good size restaurant and we saw it filling up quickly while we dined. Be sure to make a reservation if you are planning to eat at a busy time of the day! We sat downstairs and had a dozen delicious oysters followed by entrees which included a wonderful salad, grilled sea bass, and a wonderful scallops and shrimp dish. The food was excellent! Gourmet and creatively prepared with attention to detail. We loved this restaurant and the attentiveness of the staff. We recommend this restaurant without any hesitation and congratulate the Damariscotta River Grill for delivering a 5-Star level of culinary excellence in a setting that makes you want to sit and enjoy the food, the art, and the day for as long as possible. Thank you Damariscotta River Grill!
Amazing food! Everything we tried was absolutely delicious! The seared scallops, duck risotto, and latkas with smoked salmon were all phenomenal, with really lovely and unique flavor balance. So glad we stopped here on our road trip!