Menu of Eighteen95 Restaurant in Portland, Maine, USA

Menu Overview

Eighteen95 Restaurant, located in the heart of Portland, ME, offers a culinary experience that melds local flavor with refined technique. The menu, though not extensive, is carefully curated to spotlight the freshest, regionally sourced ingredients and innovative preparations that truly honor New England’s bounty.

Breakfast alone is a revelation here—Joe Rowell’s praise of the Eggs Benedict is well-founded. The dish strikes a perfect balance between a silky hollandaise and a tender egg atop rich Marble Rye Bread, which imparts a satisfying texture and depth. Meanwhile, the Avocado Toast earns its acclaim with creamy, ripe avocado layered on robust bread, offering freshness and simplicity that highlights the quality of the produce. Joins, side bacon, and a thoughtful scrambler round out a morning meal that feels both comforting and crafted. Lauren M’s notes on the pancakes and scrambler underscore the kitchen’s commitment to freshly cooked, wholesome breakfast fare—even if pricing skews slightly higher.

Entrees at Eighteen95 deepen the engagement with the menu’s local roots and gourmet finesse. The Bison Strip with black garlic butter and whipped potatoes offers a rich, earthy flavor profile that resonates with the local mushroom medley. Venison Tenderloin served over spätzle, with braised cabbage and a juniper-infused glühwein reduction, elevates game meat with nuanced, seasonal accompaniments. The Faroe Island Salmon, paired with a Maine cranberry-orange chutney and wilted kale over wild rice, balances bright acidity and hearty greens, embodying thoughtful regional sourcing. These dishes articulate the kitchen’s adept hand at marrying tradition with elevated presentation.

The Soups and Salads section embraces New England classics and fresh innovative blends alike. The Clam Chowder is a nod to local tradition, served as a comforting staple. Salads like the Farro Salad with local apple, dried cranberry, and maple vinaigrette or the Roasted Beet & Fennel Salad featuring whipped goat cheese and a parsley-herb vinaigrette bring freshness and texture contrast that complement the richer mains.

Desserts at Eighteen95 are understated yet memorable, with house-made ice creams bridging classic and seasonal flavors such as pumpkin toffee and bittersweet chocolate sorbet. The Cookie Crust Apple Pie with caramel sauce and apple cider ice cream offers a homely finish with a refined touch, while the Spiced Poached Pear & Almond Crumble blends warmth and subtle spice with creamy vanilla ice cream and almond tuile.

Customer reviews echo the restaurant’s strengths—stellar service, high-quality freshly prepared food, and a cozy, intimate atmosphere that feels like a boutique dining experience. Some note the higher price point and occasional wait times, which could be attributed to the care taken in each dish’s preparation and the small, dedicated staff. Others highlight value when paired with accommodations or well-led service, reinforcing that Eighteen95 offers more than just a meal—it promises a thoughtfully crafted dining moment.

In sum, Eighteen95 Restaurant stands out for its authentic regional approach, well-executed classic and contemporary dishes, and warm, personable service. For those seeking a carefully balanced menu of local flavors presented with elegance and heart, this Portland gem is well worth the visit.