I made a reservation weeks before and called to come in earlier. I asked if there were seats indoors since it was 55 degrees out and we had a baby and my sister and her family with two kids. We didn't think it would be this cold. They said they couldn't accommodate us indoors as there were no seats and my original reservation was outdoors due to COVID. Ok, fine we'll be ok outdoors so long as there's heaters. We got there and my husband noticed empty seats large enough to accommodate us, or break us into two groups and be seated separately but they said there's no room, so again we were ok to sit outdoors. The one heater was finally turned on halfway through, but we carried on. The food was very good, and the waitstaff were friendly. We went to the restroom at the end of the meal and noticed THE SAME TABLES were still EMPTY the entire time we were freezing outdoors. My husband was mad, I'm upset, and it was heartbreaking as my 9-month old wasn't napping well in the stroller as it was cold. We don't know why they couldn't accommodate since there were two sets of areas where we could have been seated. Our nice meal was just ruined with the lack of consideration. We could have been broken to two groups to sit indoors as other restaurants have suggested, but no one made any suggestions and there was no rush to turn on the heater. read more

Oh my.... this was a REALLY good find in a vacation filled w/ poor restaurant choices (paying more and getting less or taste-less food!) so we haven't been relying on YELP! as much as we should have but our trip has been a mass rush and we don't use a fancy phone to access the internet...so we are limited on when we can get on the Internet....but back to our lunch at David's..... Nice location in a square in downtown Portland w/ small number of outdoor tables which we chose to sit at for our lunch. Our waiter was very nice and punctual and was helpful on information we needed to find out about. I ordered a bowl of clam chowder and the muscle special (in a Madeira cream sauce) while my partner ordered the fresh herb crusted haddock with mussels. A basket of small garlic knot rolls came w/ a plate of olive oil, parm cheese, pepper and garlic (though the rolls were plenty flavorful without the extra dish) and when our meals came (not long after sampling the rolls which were really good) we were delving into our yummy creations. My clam chowder was amazing......small diced potatoes, nice chunks of clams (tender not chewy), freshly cooked bacon pieces, fresh thyme, pepper and a sweet brown sugar taste (slight...not overpowering). I was so enchanted with chowder that I could hardly put my spoon down to rest. The mussels were equally as pleasing to the tongue as the chowder. Their was a nice bowl full (about 15) and the sauce was soooooo scrumptious I couldn't let one drop go to waste! I shared one mussel w/ my partner and he shared a taste of his fish and we were just in heaven! Really....such good food and the PRICE......unreal! We paid 13.00 in Booth Bay at the Chowder House for a bowl (served in a big Styrofoam container) of lobster stew....lobster chunks in some lightly flavored milk...YUCK!....the bowl of this amazing clam chowder? $5.95 and the mussel special was like 8.00 I think. Great meal for a great price! WE'LL BE BACK!!! read more

Fantastic food, and very good service. David's has a very comfortable dining room and nice bar area. We had some drinks before we sat down for dinner. I had the Sangria which was perfect. For dinner, we were seated in the back dining room. I had the bacon wrapped pork dumplings, really good flavors. The girlfriend had the Portland Strip. Both dishes were awesome. Deserts were just as good, if not better. The girl had the Raspberry Napolean. She loved it. I had the apple and wild berry crisp. Another really good dish. Really, this is a 5 star review, but I'm taking off 1 star because the girlfriend and I were in the back room and it was hot. Very hot. Either the AC was broken or something. I was sweating the whole time. AC or no, David's is always on my list to stop by for good food. read more

I wanted to make sure we didn't make lobster rolls *every* meal while we were in Portland, so when my boyfriend Ken and I came across David's one afternoon we made a reservation for dinner. We started off with the Lobster Cakes. The flavors were bold and exciting, and they were Ken's favorite part of the meal. After our debacle with the delicious garlic knots (they gave us three and we had to play rock-paper-scissors to see who would win the third [it was me!]), I even let him have the last bite of the appetizer. I ordered the Mixed Grill, which came with a shrimp and scallop skewer, a piece of the Portland Sirloin, mashed potatoes, and asparagus. The flavors were good and the portion was good, but I would probably opt for something different next time. Ken ordered swordfish, one of the specials, and he really enjoyed it. I had a bite and thought it was just okay. I'd hoped this place would be outstanding, but it didn't blow me away. That being said, it was a pretty solid four stars and an enjoyable dining experience for what we spent. I would go back for another special night out. read more

My GF and I went to David's for restaurant week. We had heard many great things about David's so we were excited to try it out for ourselves. Overall the food was good, but nothing really special. And I mean this with no offence because it was satisfactory, but I'm not dying to go back. This is a mediocre review for a mediocre meal. Sorry Dave! read more

Ah, Portland, Maine. So many restaurants, so little time. And there is David's. After dining many times at Fore Street, Street and Co, and many others, last night we went to Davids. The food is right there with the best of Portland. I had a signature Cosmo which was lovely for 10 bucks, very reasonable for today's skyrocketing cocktail prices.We shared the muscles of the day and the fried Brussels sprouts. Perfect! I had the most amazing lobster roll as my main course. About a pound and a half lobster with great mayo, served in a croissant with the best homemade chips ever. All of us loved our food. Two complaints, ergo 4 stars instead of 5. The dining room window table temperature was way too warm..second, and most irksome was the EXORBITANT price of espresso, $3.95 for a single and a whopping $7.50 for a double. Out of whack with otherwise very fair prices for everything else. We will happily return next year, but will avoid the espresso. read more

Great service and food. Especially loved the garlic knots served instead of your traditional italian bread and butter. I was here with a large party and our waiter was cheerful, efficient, and honest when helping us decide on what to eat. I went with a salmon special with mussels and chorizo. While a little salty, the fish was cooked perfectly and the mussels were delicious. I tried my friend's scallops from her lobster ravioli entree and wished I had ordered it for myself. I got a "daydreamer" cocktail which was the perfect amount of sweet. We ordered two cheese plates for the table which was probably the only downfall, in my opinion; too small of a portion for the money. If you are looking for great seafood in an intimate setting in Portland, I'd reccommend David's. read more

Nice atmosphere. Salmon very overcooked. Sautéed spinach excellent. Risotto was dry and tasteless. Tuna was excellent! Best thing on the menu. read more

OMG amazing! The three of us searched for a restaurant and came upon this gem. Nelson was our waiter and he was incredible! Great recommendations on drinks (Sake-tini...yum!) and the baked haddock (oh wow!). We started with Arancini and potstickers (yummy) and he brought us mussels and garlic knots to add to the grub fest. We also ordered meatloaf and a beet salad with sirloin. Everything was amazing. Loved the ambiance, the staff and the food/drinks. Next time I'm in town I'm headed here first. Thank you for a wonderful ending to my vacation! read more

Wow! This evening it's 30 some degrees and their idea of outdoor seating is IRON table and chairs, no protection and one heater to share amongst 2-3 tables. Zero effort or thought went into seating people outside in the winter. They don't mention this AND they didn't seem to care either! Don't bother! We walked away. Couldn't imagine trying to eat while freezing! Shame on the owners for the inconsiderate outdoor set up and trying to get away with it. read more

My husband and I are completely okay with judging a restaurant based on their burgers. I've had amazing $6 burgers and fantastic $20 burgers. David's burgers were a huge disappointment. I would expect some flavor for a $12 burger. Some restaurants can do a burger with cheddar cheese and applewood bacon really well. David's isn't one of them. Oh...don't even get me started on the extra FOUR DOLLARS for a handful of fries as a substitute for potato chips. This is Maine...it's not like potatoes are expensive. The service wasn't great either. We came for an early lunch and we waited a long time for our food. My mother-in-law had to flag down the waiter for the check. David's is in a great location, but I don't think we will be going back. It seems like it would be a nice place for dinner, but based on our lunch experience I've lost interest. There are too many other places in Portland to try. read more

A great Portland restaurant that sources locally and has pretty creative dishes with that entourage of ingredients. My date and I had one extra night to spend in Portland before heading back from the holiday weekend to Chicago - and we were certainly glad we spent it here. Living in Chicago, we had to try their take on Steak and Lobster pizza and it really did not disappoint. I'm pretty picky when it comes to the pizza crust and theirs had a nice char crunch to it and the toppings were extremely tasty. Service was perfect and spot on. We sat in the area that was nearest to the kitchen which was really cool to watch those masters execute behind the counter. All and all a great job! read more

Stopped in for lunch on a lazy, rainy weekday. Got a window by the table, and started with a couple of cold ones. Decor is somewhat discombobulated, with differing styles and non-matching elements (I assume they patched up an older restaurant that was here previously, but I'm just guessing). 7 beers on tap, 3 of which were local; my beer could have been colder, but I'll let that slide. Waitress super friendly and (mostly) quick, another plus. Bread served was garlic knots - with some of the best garlic topping I've had in ages - really tasty! Mussels of the day appetizer was top notch; the broth that it came in was terrific, with perfectly cooked mussels. For entrees, my wife chose the pork with maple mashed sweet potatoes and spinach. The entire dish was well conceived and tasty. We both enjoyed the mixture of savory and sweet (baked apple was also part of the dish). Duck breast was perfectly prepared - medium rare - although placed over white rice seemed like a bit of a "cop out." Still, the flavor was dead on good and the meat cooked correctly. Nice tasting dishes. This was, overall, a terrific lunch experience. Nicely done, David's. read more

Had a recent trip to Davids. Great location aside from the excessive amount of slush built up on the side walk leading toward the entrance. David's is a nice little spot, foods fancy but you don't have to be. Which is the kind of place I enjoy. However, I got this app for one downfall BUT one too many In my opinion. ALL MEATS ARE 7oz. If you're an alpha male like myself, you don't go out to get anything leas than a 16oz steak. The thought of anything less makes me literally laugh out loud. However, I wasn't laughing this time. For I was stuck with a 7oz sirloin. I didn't want but NEEDED to warn fellow alpha males. Approach wIth caution....The clam chowder is out of this world though. -Thanks A-Dog read more

Very, very happy with my meal here. Flavorful, tastefully displayed, superb service, this place is truly as good as it gets here in Portland. We had a serving of truffle fries (a little too much oil, but good sauce), and for the main, had ginger and scallion crusted almon as well as pepper crusted sushi rare tuna. I think the rare tuna won out in this case, especially when expertly paired with the peanut soba noodles and asparagus. Also, I think the tuna we got also had some crispy seaweed. We left very full, no room for dessert. read more

Overview: great clam chowder, but the steal and lobster pizza was a little heavy. Pleasant service; our waitress was more attentive than some other comparable places. Two of us had a chowder each and shared a small pizza - we were very full! David's chowder: not too salted or cheese. Just right without heavy feel. Lots of meat, and the potatoes weren't overcooked! Like it a lot. Portion is on the smaller side. Steak and lobster pizza: felt a bit heavy with the cheese, lobster, and streak going on all at the same time. Good for just the experience though. read more

This was our first trip to Portland. We got into town a bit late and most places were packed--we think--due to Harvest on the Harbor. But we were lucky enough to find refuge at David's. The only thing we did not like about David's was that our clothes came out smelling like the kitchen. Having gotten that out of the way... I would say the location is convenient, but I'm not a resident and don't know the area. It was certainly convenient to our hotel. Service was excellent. Food was fantastic. I had one of the evening's specials, which was superb. My wife asked the server's recommendation between the special I had and their vegetarian Napoleon. To paraphrase the server, she said, "I would have to say the Napoleon. Hands down." Initially impressed by the fact the server recommended the less expensive item, that's what she ordered. For my wife was the correct recommendation. We're thinking of moving to Portland. So, we'll be back. Once we're done checking out other eateries, we'll be coming back to David's for sure. read more

Great cocktails. Great food. Creative menu. Be sure to ask for a quiet table, as it can get noisy. Located centrally in downtown Portland, you can't beat the convenience of strolling around the city and popping in for some excellent seafood and a well-crafted cocktail. read more

My boyfriend and I went to David's the first night we were in Portland. A little pricey, yes, but the food was great. Our favorite part, by far, was the lobster cake appetizer. Incredibly flavorful and the sauce that came with it was delicious. For dinner I had the shrimp/scallop skewers and he had the sushi style tuna. Both were really good and fresh. The cocktails were also made very well. Overall, a great place to treat yourself! read more

Once again the David & Co. deliver a unique, bespoke, couture cuisine experience that can only be described as 'art'. David's Monument Square and the Lounge is nothing short of delightful; quality food and impeccable service executed in a seamless way. We've enjoyed several David's eateries for years, and have to say short of KPT (Kennebunkport), Monument Square is our favourite. The location, quality, service, food, and excellence make David's Monument Square a sure-thing, every time. Artfully done food in the heart of Maine's artsiest city. read more

Great food. Good service. If I had paid .... $30? .... less It would have been 5 stars. All around great place to go, but just a little over priced in my opinion. And the garlic knots.... what? Outer portion of the restaurant is a little loud but there is a back corner where its quiet. Made a reservation online the day of, about 4 hours ahead of time, and they sat us right away. Drink selection is great, fairly diverse menu. I got the open faced lobster ravioli which was amazing, the sauce I could have drank out of a glass it was so good. We got a meat, cheese, and fruit board before which was good. The candied walnuts were great. So confused about the garlic knots....... like..... what? Its like you peek into a really nice car and the stereo is from walmart. The stereo works fine... but its just seems out of place. Thats how I feel about the garlic knots, just very out of place. Also they are very messy and so my napkin was covered with garlic knot butter. read more

Excellent Salmon special and regular entree! Both were cooked well. Nice pairing of flavors. Mussel appetizer was great, but would have been amazing with some crusty rolls. read more

Great local restaurant with a small town feel but a big town taste! Service was great.. I had the Halibut special / lobster Rosotto . Delicious, with big chunks of lobster. I was visiting Portland and would recommend this place to everyone. I will be back! read more

Great food and great service! I had the haddock and crab. I was originally unsure about the blueberry gastrique, but it really worked! An excellent and enjoyable dining experience for my wife and I. read more

I can't say enough about David's. I was happy to find a Barbera on the wine list. We'll be back! read more

We had a wonderful lunch the other day. The garlic knot rolls were fabulous. I had the scottish salmon and my wife had the crabcake salad, both were terriffic. We were seated in the bar area at a high-top table. The service was prompt and attentive. This was our third time there for lunch, each time was great. read more

My husband and I went here for our one meal in Portland while staying on Peaks Island for a couple days. I didn't want to dine at one of the places along the water and was looking for more of a "downtown" experience. Yelp guided the way! We started with the small plate calamari, which was great as an appetizer and very unique in flavor. My entrée (the lobster ravioli) was de-lish-ous. The presentation was divine. Hubby had a pizza, which was good, but probably nothing to write home about (he doesn't usually venture away from his "regulars"). The service was friendly and attentive and I really appreciated our waitresses willingness to bring me a special order of snap peas in the middle of my meal (culprit: pregnancy craving). I also really liked the building - it had a lot of character and had clearly been there a while. The art was a bit of a mix, but overall the atmosphere was warm and enjoyable. read more

This is a good stop for happy hour. A decent selection of drinks and appetizers and prices are good. However the dinner menu was limited and seemed overpriced. read more

Had lunch at David's today. The food and service were average. I'd go back for a quick meal.

Enjoyable meal in casual atmosphere . Haddock with crab meat was very good . Filet special good but slightly undercooked for medium steak. I should know being from Texas . Bread was amazingly evil. Wine by the glass was generous . read more

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One of my favorite restaurants in Portland. Amazing food, great staff and relaxed atmosphere. Check it out!

I went here on New Years Eve with my boyfriend and it was delicious- the food was so good it's hard to even describe! We started out with the yummy rolls and bread. For starters we ordered the lobster cakes, they were absolutely superb! I'm personally not a lobster fan but I loved these. For the main meal I had the filet mignon and my bf had the mixed grill. We both thought the meals were outstanding, they were cooked exactly the way we asked, it was by far the best filet mignon I've ever had. Besides the food the service was also excellent, we didn't have to wait long once we asked for something and our waitress was good on checking in on us through out the evening! I can't wait to eat there again! read more

David's Restaurant - Filet mignon (front) mixed grill (back) - DELICIOUS!! - New American Near Me - Portland, Maine

This restaurant NEVER disappoints! We have been several times, and specifically book ahead of time when we know we're headed to Maine for the weekend to ensure we can get our spot at David's! We started with garlic knots and let me just say - you'll WANT to order 12, but stick with 6 because there are too many other good choices on the menu to skimp later on in the meal. They have a famous and unique clam chowder, which we always get and always enjoy. I will say, this time the chowder was full of pepper which was a little too strong for our liking but still absolutely delicious! One had the open face lobster ravioli and basically licked the plate, the other had the meatloaf which is savory, unique and delicious. We were way too full for dessert, but enjoyed some delicious drinks along the way. I also think it's important to note in this day and age how well David's handles COVID. You are required to wear a mask of course, but they provide hand sanitizer on the table and also have a little list of COVID guidelines at each table. We happily obliged wearing our mask when the server approached the table, did not walk about the restaurant, and made sure the restroom was empty before trying to use it. We felt it was handled extremely well and this plays highly into our decision to dine at restaurants these days! Please do yourself a favor, make a reservation so you don't miss out, and go to David's often! read more

I got the fish special..two overcooked shrimp on top of dried out haddock plopped on undercooked risotto. Husband's $22. Pizza was oK. Service was good. Drinks were fine. The food was a miss for four of the six. I was disappointed because I used to love this place. read more

I've simply never had a bad lunch ad David's (or dinner). This place just has all the boxes checked: quick and friendly service and incredible food! read more

David's Restaurant - Daily sandwich special - New American Near Me - Portland, Maine

Had an awful experience. Reservation was ignored and had to wait. Staff was incredibly rude and made my party uncomfortable. You'd think the bare minimum out of the staff would be to kindly great those walking through the door. Instead, the hostess literally saw me trying to enter and closed the door on me. Absolutely disgusted by this establishment. Food was overpriced and not even worth it. Skip this one! Save your dignity and your wallet. read more

My New Years Eve dinner was simply remarkable. The Calamari was incredible but the Lobster Bisque was equal until I looked down at the soup and there lay chunks of lobster meat looking back at me. I had the special that consisted of beef tenderloin, mashed potatoes and asparagus wrapped in a bundle with a zucchini ring! My New Eve guest had the fillet with Blue Cheese that tasted amazing to the pallet. The special Bailey's Kahlua ice cream sounded great but I certainly believed I could not have another morsel; it disappeared before I could utter an objection. If YELP had a six star ratting Davids would receive my first. This was a PERFECT Dinner! read more

OMG. Food was incredible. Our son had the lobster open faced ravioli and loved it. Said the cream sauce was out of this world. I had the fettuccini special and the roasted red pepper sauce was very flavorful and the perfect consistency so it clung to the pasta and chicken perfectly. My husband had the salmon pizza and said it was wonderful. We sat at the open kitchen bar and watched the chefs cook. We all said it was exhausting. They worked non stop and with precision and knew each others moves. The three of us highly recommend this place if you are in Portland. read more

Best calamari i've ever tasted, i've been searching for a calamari done better than David's and I can't find it. This place was my go-to to impress someone and come out of it satisfied with a good meal. read more

Food was expertly prepared . Wonderful selection of playful twists on standard dishes for a change of pace. Service was attentive and not over bearing. One suggestion for large parties (we had 14 in our party) have someone help the primary server when delivering the meals to the table, way too long to deliver 14 dinners 2-3 at a time through a busy restaurant. We are always glad when David's takes a reservation for such a large party and always enjoy the food. read more