Indulging in a region’s many delicacies, including its fare and libations, is an integral aspect of a New England getaway. In MidCoast Maine, a particularly picturesque slice of the Northeast, lucky travelers are surrounded by fresh seafood, farm-to-table creations, craft ales, and regionally-inspired cocktails. The sleekest bars in Camden, Maine, including Camden Harbour Inn’s AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, sublimely embrace creativity, sophistication, and exemplary New England-style techniques.
The Best Bars in Camden, Maine
While 2020 hasn’t been an overly kind year to local restaurants, taverns, and taprooms, the most beloved bars in Camden, Maine, remain as enticing as ever. Travelers will always need a quiet, elegant place to enjoy a glass of fine wine, a colorful cocktail, or a craft beer. Thankfully, these three staples are eagerly open for business as the Northeast readies itself for autumn.
Natalie’s Restaurant
Camden Harbour Inn’s AAA Four-Diamond restaurant, Natalie’s, is a multi-functional space that features lavish decor, head-turning Penobscot Bay views, and world-class mixologists. Natalie’s bar opens at 5 p.m., accompanied by the dinner rush, and closes at midnight. The bar’s mixologists craft an array of seasonal cocktails that are equally delicious and aesthetically pleasing. On occasion, Natalie’s offers cocktail-making courses. Of course, this dimly-lit, scarlet-clad bar also boasts the city’s largest wine menu (24 pages in length), featuring a multitude of varietals from across the globe. Top-shelf scotch, rum, and cognac are also readily available.
The Jack
Admittedly, The Jack is an idyllic after-dark, date-night hangout. Patrons can munch on Americanized grub, sip on classic Maine ales, and play bocce (or admire the shimmering stars high above). As one of the most laid-back bars in Camden, Maine, The Jack welcomes droves of locals and tourists alike. Keep an eye on its social media channels to learn more about hours, private seating, free games, and drink specials. The Jack’s staff continues to adjust their business practices, oftentimes for the better. Cornhole is now available, as is a sizable outdoor seating area. While The Jack mostly caters toward beer aficionados, their mixologists do craft some unique (and fruity) cocktails.
40 Paper Bistro & Bar
40 Paper boasts a small but lively bar known for its mules, red wines, and regional ales. Despite operating in such a cramped space, 40 Paper’s mixology team is swift, skilled, and charismatic. The house cocktail list features everything from espresso-infused vodka to Bulleit rye and locally-distilled gin. Many of the core ingredients, including bitters, fruit, and liqueurs, are locally sourced. It’s easy to appreciate 40 Paper’s extensively-detailed wine menu, which includes notes about every label.
Luxury Hotels in Camden, Maine
Enjoying an innovative cocktail or fine wine at one of the best bars in Camden, Maine, is the perfect way to cap a full day of classic outdoor pursuits, including a schooner cruise, state park hike, and winery tour. Camden Harbour Inn remains one of the top-rated romantic getaways in New England, mainly because of its culinary delights, sophisticated luxuries, and spa services. As a proud member of the Relais & Châteaux association, this luxurious Camden hotel remains a beacon of excellence during all four seasons. To book a well-deserved romantic escape to MidCoast Maine, please dial 800-236-4266 (or check availability online).