About
With a menu the owners describe as "grown-up comfort food," Damariscotta River Grill (DRG) has long been synonymous with Midcoast dining.
Located in a historic downtown Damariscotta, the brick restaurant sits across from the iconic Lincoln Theater, making it easy to spot.
Jean Kerrigan and Richard ("Rick") Hirsch opened the business in 2003 and built it as a reputable dining spot. In 2019, Tim Beal and Tamara Dica took over, bringing their own vision and experience.
With "grill" in its name, it would be easy to assume that the cuisine revolves around elevated bar food: burgers, pizzas, and chicken strips. Instead, the menu features fresh Maine seafood and entrees showcasing the region's farms. Add the award-winning wine list, and you have one more reason to settle in for a meal that lingers.
If you're vacationing in the summertime, visit its sister eatery, Larson's Lunch Box. Located outside of downtown, it offers walk-up ordering for lobster rolls, grilled burgers, chicken sandwiches, and Cuban paninis, to name a few.
An additional perk of dining here is the free parking. Options include the downtown municipal parking area, street parking on Main Street, and the lots at the First National Bank and Bangor Savings Bank after 5:00 p.m.
Whether for lunch or dinner, DRG offers regional flavors in its warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Vibe
The restaurant is next door to the three-story 1857 Damariscotta Center, making it easy to locate. Like the surrounding historic buildings on Main Street, Damariscotta River Grill features a brick facade and painted sign above its covered entrance. Straddling the front door are large windows with the restaurant's golden name arching across both panes.
Inside, the first floor sports exposed brick walls, a low ceiling with ductwork, and tables dotting the wooden floor. It's ideal for a more intimate meal. During the summer, the staff opens the back room, offering yet another space with river views. Dining upstairs offers a livelier energy, where the bar area can get loud, but the fireplace makes for a cozy winter meal.
Additionally, a private room is available for large groups or families celebrating a milestone event.
In short, the ambiance offers a relaxed coastal experience with enough polish to make an ordinary night shine.
Damariscotta River Grill: Menu & Drinks
Kickstart your epicurean adventure with the famous Pemaquid oysters. Pulled from the nearby cold waters, shucked clean, and served simply, they taste beyond delicious. The Pemaquic mussels are another winner, showcasing lots of garlic, butter, shallots, and white wine. The julienne of vegetables and ciabatta bread make it a popular appetizer..
For a fusion of Asian and Maine flavors, consider the Thai Fish Stew. It features coconut red curry broth with fish, wild-caught petit shrimp, scallops, and mussels. The gluten-free pad Thai noodles make it a filling entree after a day exploring Pemaquid Point Lighthouse.
Another favorite is the Broiled Seafood Plate, showcasing lightly crumbed haddock, scallops, and wild-caught petite shrimp. The seafood is broiled to perfection and comes with a sautéed lobster cake on sweet corn sauce, rice pilaf, and a vegetable.
While seafood is the main attraction, there are some land-based meals to please everyone in your family or group. Case in point is the Seared Beef Tenderloins in a brandy-mushroom sauce with polenta fries and asparagus. For something a bit more exotic, order the Duck Confit Risotto. The meat is fall-off-the-bone tender and comes with roasted butternut squash, scallions, dried cranberries, fontina cheese, and toasted pumpkin seeds. The Grilled Hanger Steak is a meat-lover's choice, cooked to your liking and served with a bourbon brown sugar glaze, fried onions, River Grill Potatoes, and asparagus.
Regarding beverages, the award-winning wine list stands out as a real point of pride, while the draft beer selections and craft cocktails ensure something for everyone.
Discover why Damariscotta River Grill has been a Midcoast hotspot with fresh local seafood, artisan culinary skills, and historic atmosphere.
Local Tips
- Takeout lets you bring your meal back to your Casago rental.
- The kids' menu makes it family-friendly.
- Gluten-free and vegan options are available.
- Happy Hour is from 3:00-5:00 p.m. daily in the upstairs bar.
