You have to venture a bit away from downtown to get the chance to eat here, but generally speaking, when you pass through Portland, you've got wheels… The place was, way back when, a popular steakhouse.

A New York couple decided to breathe new life into it a few years ago when the neighborhood had fallen into disrepair, and this fresh wind seems to have radiated throughout the whole area. The décor, inspired by American "diners" and French bistros, is thoughtful, understated, and puts everyone at ease.

Totally in line with the menu. This focuses on dishes without too many frills, crafted from local products where you sometimes find the subtle influence of popular French cuisine.

A sort of American-style bistronomie. We absolutely loved a salad of cabbage and marinated wild mushrooms, a delicious halibut and mussels from Casco Bay, which you can almost see from the large bay windows that border the table.

The wine list has the smarts to highlight local wines sorted into "classics or emerging." And the service, finally, is eminently friendly and jovial.

Don't hesitate to stop by here—it's sure to guarantee you a good time: tasty, not wallet-breaking, and relaxed.

Woodford Food & Beverage