Chérie is a new neighborhood bistro and café opening soon in late spring in Portland, Maine. Chefs Melody Medina and Quinn Williams are taking over the former Quanto Basta space at 249 Congress Street.
After building excitement with several pop-up events around the city, they are now preparing to officially open their own restaurant this spring.
Chérie will serve a seasonal menu inspired by French and American cooking. Guests can expect freshly baked breads and pastries along with classic dishes like steak frites, roast chicken, whole fish, and pâtés.
At a Chérie pop-up event held at Lambs in September, the team served a grilled lamb chop with cranberry beans and a tomato galette that wowed guests, leaving many eager for the restaurant to open its doors and serve more of its spectacular food.
The restaurant will also have a full bar featuring wines, local and imported beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. Medina and Williams plan to make only small changes to the dining room and will keep much of the current layout, including the Fiero Forni oven.
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With dinner service planned for Thursday through Monday and hopes to add lunch and weekend brunch in the summer, Chérie is set to become a welcoming new spot in Portland’s food scene.
Locals can look forward to a warm, relaxed place to enjoy simple, well-made food and drinks.
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Dining and Cooking