Water Street Kitchen and Bar

Water Street Kitchen and Bar is an elegant restaurant nestled on the scenic banks of the Sheepscot River in the historic town of Wiscasset, Maine, USA. Occupying a building rich in history—formerly the site of the famous Le Garage restaurant—it offers guests a unique blend of modern comfort and old-world charm.

Water Street Kitchen and Bar. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The culinary concept centers on Mediterranean traditions, masterfully interwoven with the freshest New England seafood. Here, you'll find exquisite dishes inspired by the culinary schools of Spain, France, and Italy, making the menu both diverse and memorable.

The restaurant's interior has undergone a thorough renovation, becoming brighter and more modern while maintaining respect for the space's historical heritage. Panoramic water views and a warm atmosphere make Water Street Kitchen and Bar one of the most attractive dining destinations on the Maine map.

For your convenience, we have gathered the current contact details for the establishment. If you plan to visit during peak hours, it is recommended to check for table availability in advance by phone or through the official website.

A visit to Water Street Kitchen and Bar is first and foremost a gastronomic journey. The star of the menu is the Paella de Mariscos, designed for a group of 3-4 people. This dish takes time to prepare, but the wait is fully justified by the rich flavor of fresh seafood.

Fans of the classics should try the pan-seared flounder, seafood with fragrant tarragon butter, or the signature Le Garage burger, named after the restaurant's historic predecessor. For a light snack, the appetizers are perfect: roasted cauliflower with garlic aioli, fresh oysters or mussels, and spicy Creole shrimp.

In addition to the food, guests can enjoy a drink at the full-service bar featuring a signature cocktail list. Thanks to its waterfront location, the restaurant is ideal for a romantic evening or a heartfelt gathering with friends, where the magnificent view of the Sheepscot River becomes the main centerpiece of the table.

Water Street Kitchen and Bar is located at 15 Water Street, right on the scenic banks of the Sheepscot River. This spot is in the heart of the historic center of Wiscasset, which is often called "the prettiest village in Maine."

If you are traveling through the USA by car, getting here is easy: the town is located approximately 30 kilometers north of Portland and is a popular stop on a route along the coast. For those already in town, the best option is a walk or a short taxi ride from anywhere in the center.

Public transport in this part of the state is limited, so most tourists prefer a personal vehicle or local taxi services. The restaurant is conveniently located for those who want to combine a delicious meal with coastal sightseeing.

The history of this location is inextricably linked to the region's culinary traditions. Water Street Kitchen and Bar opened its doors on June 27, taking over a building that had been home to the legendary Le Garage restaurant for over 40 years. The previous establishment, under the leadership of Cheryl "Shep" Rust, became a true symbol of the town, and the new owners have strived to maintain that spirit of continuity.

The new owner and chef, Ed Colburn, originally from neighboring Southport, purchased the historic building in February. A major renovation was carried out before the opening. The interior became more modern, featuring new tabletops and updated decor; however, the architectural heritage and the special atmosphere of the old building were carefully preserved.

The first guests of the renovated space were friends, neighbors, and family members of the owners during a "soft opening." Today, the restaurant represents a harmonious symbiosis of the historical past and modern Mediterranean cuisine, focused on the highest quality local seafood.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and cuisine of Water Street Kitchen and Bar, we recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. This is plenty of time for a leisurely lunch or dinner with multiple courses while taking in the river views.

However, if you plan to order the signature Paella de Mariscos, you should consider its preparation time. Since this dish is made from scratch for a large group, the wait time is approximately 45 minutes. In this case, it's better to budget at least 2.5 hours for your visit to enjoy your time without rushing.

Water Street Kitchen and Bar operates on the following schedule: from Tuesday to Thursday, the doors are open from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, the establishment stays open slightly longer—from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Please note that the restaurant is closed on Mondays and Sundays.

Since operating hours can change depending on the season or private events, we strongly recommend checking the current schedule on the official website before planning your visit.

A walk around the neighborhood after a pleasant dinner will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of this charming coastal town. Wiscasset is famous for its historic architecture and cozy streets, where something interesting is hidden around every corner.

Near the restaurant, you'll find numerous historical monuments, museums, and charming shops that make this area perfect for leisurely exploration.