About
Located in a New England Victorian inn, Natalie's Restaurant at Camden Harbour Inn combines fresh Maine harvests, refined culinary techniques, and a refined setting. With views of the sparkling bay and surrounding hills, this restaurant exemplifies fine dining in Midcoast Maine.
While the inn has roots dating back to the 1800s, Dutch owners Raymond Brunyanszki and Oscar Verest took the reins in 2007. They blended the building's historic charm with contemporary European elegance and a few nods to their home country.
Their commitment to quality earned the restaurant a long list of honors. Natalie's became the first and only restaurant in Maine to receive the OpenTable Diners' Choice Top 100 Best Restaurants in America award. It also holds AAA Four Diamond recognition, a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, and a membership with Relais & Châteaux. The kitchen has even been invited to cook at the James Beard House in New York City, a milestone that few restaurants ever reach.
Today, Executive Chef Jose Ochoa leads the kitchen, showcasing the bounty of Maine fishing boats, farms, and gardens. He crafts these local ingredients into European-influenced culinary masterpieces. Because the menu shifts with the seasons, no two meals are the same.
Conveniently located near landmarks and attractions, it's easy to plan a meal around a busy day of sightseeing. Hike the trails at Camden Hills State Park or stroll the mile-long length of granite out to Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse. Then celebrate your adventures over a succulent meal at Natalie's Restaurant at Camden Harbour Inn.
Vibe
The 3-story white inn exudes charm and elegance, marking the knoll overlooking the harbor. Classic architecture and tidy grounds frame sweeping views of the water.
Inside, top Dutch interior designer Mascha Brunia created an atmosphere resembling an upscale Parisian bistro. Picture rich colors, plush textures, and thoughtful details throughout the rooms.
Seating options range from an intimate bar seating, perfect for a cocktail and a chat with the bartender, to the fireplace lounge offering lighter, walk-in dining. A sunroom offers lovely views of the harbor and grounds, and the outdoor seating opens in warmer months, sometimes with heaters for cool coastal nights.
All of this makes the ambiance at Natalie's a natural fit for a Midcoast vacation.
Natalie's Restaurant at Camden Harbour Inn: Menu & Drinks
Small Bites on the snack menu make sharing a plus, enabling diners to create a tapas-style meal. For a taste of the Netherlands, consider the bitterballs. While anything but bitter, this Dutch comfort classic showcases savory, meat ragout in a roux that is then deep-fried. The result is a crisp, golden ball filled with meat and gravy.
Additional snacks include lobster rolls with herbed aioli, contemporary oysters with remoulade and radishes, and pommes darphin.
For the ultimate culinary experience, consider the chef's tasting menus. While referred to as "a surprise chef-tasting menu," rest assured that the 6-course dinner will highlight the best bounty Maine has to offer. For an additional cost, add the wine pairing to sample world-class vintages.
Another pairing consideration is the lobster tasting menu. The seafood selections are off-the-boat fresh, and the accompanying sides make for a satisfying meal. Typically, the meal begins with Maine oysters, shucked with care and served in various varieties. Afterward comes lobster ceviche paired with avocado and peppers, a smoky lobster steam bun, and a creamy lobster risotto with tender meat and perfectly cooked corn.
Moving on to the entrees, the Over Fire section of the menu is relatively new. Whether you choose the trout, the Wagyu, or the guinea hen, you'll be dining on hand-picked, locally sourced protein. Case in point is the brook trout, which is fresh and generous and pairs well with sides like asparagus, broccolini, and fingerling potatoes.
On the drink side, the curated cocktails win loyal fans, while the sommelier-guided wine pairing features a deep list.
For upscale dining featuring award-winning cuisine and culinary skill, make a reservation at Natalie's Restaurant at Camden Harbor Inn.
Local Tips
- Arrive before your reservation for a cocktail at the bar.
- Check their social media for cooking classes and special events.
- The walk-in fireplace lounge offers lighter fare without a reservation.
- Lean on the sommelier for pairing advice.
