Reading Room Restaurant at The Bar Harbor Inn

Name: Reading Room Restaurant at The Bar Harbor Inn
Address: 1 Newport Dr., Bar Harbor, ME, United States, 04609
Telephone: (207) 288-3351
Price range: $31 to $50
Rating: 4.7

4.7

1593 Reviews

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

Top tags:

The Reading Room offers guests of the Bar Harbor Inn, visitors to Bar Harbor, and our dearly loved regulars a distinguished fine dining experience overlooking Frenchman Bay.

Serving breakfast and dinner daily, the Reading Room is a one of a kind dining experience. Delectable local Maine cuisine and attentive service are surpassed only by the magnificent panoramic ocean views.

Start your evening with locally farmed oysters while deciding between our signature Beef Short Ribs or Filet and Lobster Tail fresh from the boats on the Harbor. Linger over a slice of Maine Blueberry Pie while you enjoy a crafted cocktail and soft piano music.

Smart casual attire is preferred, but not required. We do not accept parties exceeding 6 people. Please note that we are not able to guarantee tables by the window.

We look forward to seeing you!

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Sept 29, 2023

7:00 p.m.

Booked 10 times today

Additional information

Dining style
Elegant Dining
Cuisines
Contemporary American
Hours of Operation
Breakfast Daily 7:00 am–10:30 am Dinner Daily 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
Phone number
(207) 288-3351
Website
http://www.barharborinn.com/
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress Code
Smart Casual
Executive Chef
Zachary Dallessandro

Location
1 Newport Dr., Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Neighbourhood
Bar Harbor
Parking Details
valet parking available
Entertainment
Live piano nightly from 6-10 p.m.
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Vegan, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Popular dishes

Beets N' BurrataUS$16.00
Beets, Burrata, Smoked Bacon, Toasted Pistachios, Orange-Honey Vinaigrette
Knife & Fork CaesarUS$14.00
Roasted Garlic Aioli, White Anchovies, Heirloom Baby Tomatoes, Shaved Pecorino, Brioche Croutons
Bar Harbor BibbUS$15.00
Boston Bibb Lettuce, Local Blue Cheese, Heirloom Tomatoes, Crispy Fried Shallots, Champagne Vinaigrette

Tasty Beginnings

Chilled Shrimp CocktailUS$17.00
Housemade Cocktail Sauce, Marinated Tomatoes, Shaved Red Onion, Shaved Cucumbers, Soft Herbs
Locally Farmed Maine OystersUS$18.00
½ Dozen, Housemade Cocktail Sauce, Blueberry-Yuzu Mignonette
Jumbo Lump Crab CakeUS$20.00
Jumbo Lump Crab, House Whole Grain Rémoulade, Arugula, Lemon Oil
Favourite Compressed WatermelonUS$16.00
Basil Pesto, Baby Arugula, Citrus Cured Olives, Feta

Hearty Fillers

Duck ConfitUS$34.00
Toasted Herb Farro, Wild Mushrooms, Roasted Fennel. Suggested wine: King Estate "Inscription" Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon
Grilled 8oz Filet MignonUS$46.00
Ginger-Carrot Puree, Duck Fat Crispy Potatoes, Truffle Pesto, Broccolini. Suggested wine: Coppola Diamond Claret, Cabernet Sauvignon, California
Seared New Zealand Rack of LambUS$46.00
Herb Roasted Root Vegetables, Whipped Potato, Porcini Aioli, Red Wine Jus. Suggested wine: Argiano, NC "Baby Super Tuscan", Montalcino, Italy
Slow Braised Beef Short RibUS$38.00
Roasted Baby Vegetables, Duck Fat Crispy Potatoes, Red Wine Jus. Suggested wine: St. Francis, Merlot, Sonoma, California
Land & SeaUS$52.00
Filet of Beef, Maine Lobster Tail, Potato Purée, Charred Baby Carrots, Red Wine Jus, Clarified Butter. Suggested wine: King Estate "Inscription" Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon
- 5ozUS$52.00
- 8ozUS$58.00
Downeast "Lazy" LobsterUS$52.00
Separated Lobster from Shell, Potato Purée, Charred Baby Carrots, Clarified Butter. Suggested wine: August Kesseler 'R", Riesling, Rheingau, Germany
Feuille de Brick Atlantic SalmonUS$36.00
Herb Baked in Feuille de brick, Broccolini, Marcona Almond Romesco Sauce, Micro Salad. Suggested wine: Sonoma Cutrer Chardonnay, California
Seared Sea ScallopsUS$36.00
Lobster Potato Hash, Olive Oil Roasted Fennel, Yuzu-Soy Butter. Suggested wine: Whitehaven, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand
Seared Atlantic SwordfishUS$42.00
Celery Root Purée, Herb Quinoa, Purée, Citrus Olives, Lemon Olive Oil. Suggested wine: Chablis 'La Pierrelee, La Chablisienne
Organic Grain StrudelUS$28.00
Quinoa, Farro, Roasted Fennel, Mushrooms, Blistered Tomatoes, Caramelized Carrot Mousseline, Pea Tendril Salad. Suggested wine: Fleur de Mer, Rose, Cotes de Provence, France

What 1,593 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7

4.7 based on recent ratings

4.7Food
4.6Service
4.8Ambience
4.4Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

Maine
Romantic
Maine
Great for scenic views
Maine
Contemporary American
Maine
Most Booked
Northern Coast
Best Overall
Northern Coast
Best Food
Northern Coast
Best Ambience
Northern Coast
Best Value
Northern Coast
Great for fine wines
Northern Coast
Romantic
Northern Coast
Great for scenic views
Northern Coast
Good for special occasions
Northern Coast
Most Booked

1,593 Reviews

TV
TerriV
Nashville
8 reviews
vip
5.0
8 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
This is a lovely restaurant with a remarkable staff. The duck confit was delicious as well as blueberry pie and strawberry tart. The history of the building was very interesting.
Is this helpful?
K
Krista
Seattle
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined 2 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Amazing views, live music, incredible food and attentive staff. 10/10 recommend.
Is this helpful?
SL
StevenL
Las Vegas
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience4
You never know what you are actually going to get while traveling. This was a fantastic find while staying in Bay Harbor. The food, service, ambiance, and water views were perfect. We had the Maine oysters: amazing. The lobster was super tender and sweet. The rack of lamb generous portion and expertly prepared.
Is this helpful?
PL
PaulL
Chicago
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Excellent experience. View food and service Little pricey
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 4 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great atmosphere and food was excellent. Got the Land and Sea. Filet was the bomb
Is this helpful?
T
Tigers
1 review
1.0
1 review
Dined 4 days ago
overall1food1service1ambience3
This was our worst dining experience in Bar Harbor. They want to be fine dining, but they are missing key components of what that entails. Ex. They didn’t replaced used silverware, didn’t provide proper utensils until after food was served. The server never provided a description of the dish. The root vegetable medley looked like a frozen bag of mixed vegetables that one gets in the freezer section. Perfect tiny little squares, not appetizing at all. The whipped mashed potatoes tasted watered down., and to top it off the dishes were not properly seasoned. One should never have to salt their food at a fine dining restaurant. We weren’t acknowledged when departing as to thank you for joining us, or how was everything. They have a gorgeous setting and dining room, but that is all they have. If one is looking for good food there are much better offerings in town itself.
Is this helpful?
CM
CathyM
Greater Boston
2 reviews
3.0
2 reviews
Dined 4 days ago
overall3food4service3ambience4
An extraordinarily long wait for our dinner to be delivered-over an hour after the appetizer with no one checking to either offer an explanation or to see if we needed anything (drinks, etc.)
Is this helpful?
BA
BarbA
Tampa
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 4 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
A lovely dinner. Everything we expected - view, wait staff, piano music, very tasty meal, loved the blueberry pie!
Is this helpful?
CM
CarmenM
Philadelphia
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined 5 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Beautiful view and delicious food. A great choice for upscale dining in Bar Harbor
Is this helpful?
M
Megan
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 5 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
I don’t know which was better- the food or the views!
Is this helpful?
BS
BrendaS
Philadelphia
2 reviews
3.0
2 reviews
Dined 6 days ago
overall3food2service3ambience2
Major disappointment after all the hype about it. Very overpriced for the quality. Had very high expectations and they were not met at all. Service was fair, food was bland and boring. Was supposed to be a big anniversary celebration and we both thought it was a big waste of money.
Is this helpful?
P
Pam99
Greater Boston
7 reviews
3.0
7 reviews
Dined 6 days ago
overall3food3service4ambience4
Server said lazy man’s lobster was from a 1 1/2lb. It was not. We are experienced lobster eaters and know the diff between a 1 lb lobster and 1 1/2lb. Scallops were undercooked and had to be sent back.
Is this helpful?
MS
MarcS
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 7 days ago
overall5food5service5ambience5
Outstanding in all aspects. Highly recommend to all!
Is this helpful?
MT
MichaelT
Greater Boston
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on September 21, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
By far the best restaurant in Bar Harbor, Maine! The food was excellent and the service impeccable-the best fine dining in the area.
Is this helpful?
KK
KateK
San Francisco
5 reviews
vip
4.0
5 reviews
Dined on September 21, 2023
overall4food4service5ambience4
Good food,beautiful view, get there a little before sunset.kind of an old school place but comfortable. Enjoyable experience.
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Dallas
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 21, 2023
overall4food4service4ambience4
The views and the opportunity are wonderful. The portions are quite large and therefore drive the price high. I think both could be backed down. Quality of the fish was terrific.
Is this helpful?
LA
LindaA
Cincinnati
18 reviews
vip
5.0
18 reviews
Dined on September 20, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Elegant, historic, romantic atmosphere plus delicious food and impeccable service.
Is this helpful?
d
davidw
Philadelphia
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 20, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
I planned this for sunset and it was perfect. Sabrina , our server was wonderful, very knowledgeable. Excellent experience.
Is this helpful?
BH
BrianH
Atlantic City
7 reviews
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on September 20, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
beautiful old school setting overlooking the water. Food was excellent. Service outstanding. On time. My wife had lobster and blueberry pie.. can't beat that!
Is this helpful?
C
Cvillefoodie
Greensboro
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on September 20, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
What a perfect last dinner in Bar Harbor! We thoroughly enjoyed the setting, the service and the food! We will be back!
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Minneapolis
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We had the best time watin
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 19, 2023
overall5food4service5ambience5
Great dining experience with beautiful views, attentive service, live music, and good food. Our server, Alex, went above and beyond. Our steaks were cooked perfectly, and the side dishes were very good. I would definitely recommend this restaurant.
Is this helpful?
MM
MrMan
Washington DC
17 reviews
vip
5.0
17 reviews
Dined on September 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The Reading Room is an excellent choice for special occasions or just for a wonderful meal. The views are spectacular, and the staff are absolutely fantastic. At one point one of the managers lowered the blinds, obstructing the view... Thankfully, a kind staff member came over and opened them back up correcting the error :). The food and view are remarkable and worth the price.
Is this helpful?
AS
AnnaS
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 19, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The whole experience at The Reading room, was Outstanding. The food was over the top, Delicious! The service was Fantastic! The Ambience was incredible! We are so happy we made the choice to eat there. It will be difficult to top the experience. Thank you!
Is this helpful?
M
Misty
New York Area
28 reviews
5.0
28 reviews
Dined on September 18, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
My husband and I had dinner at the Reading Room last night..It was absolutely fantastic. Staff was extremely courteous and friendly. Our waiter was very knowledgeable about the menu. Both of our meals were absolutely delicious.I had the Lazy Man’s lobster which was sweet and tender. My husband had the short ribs and it was so tender that you didn’t need a knife. Both of us had wine. I had the Riesling and he had a Pinot Noir. Both were excellent. Unfortunately we were so full and had. I room for dessert. We both would highly recommend the Reading Room.
Is this helpful?
BC
BrianC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 18, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Elegant setting with live piano player. Bar side looked comfy and casual. Upscale dining choices; exceptional service. Recommend a polo shirt or nicer for dinner.
Is this helpful?
SD
StuD
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 17, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Very pleasant experience overall! Food, service, views all excellent. Looking forward to our next visit.
Is this helpful?
m
mrschivus
Richmond
21 reviews
5.0
21 reviews
Dined on September 16, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The Reading Room was a great restaurant to celebrate our friend's 65th birthday. The food and drinks were delicious and our server was friendly and attentive. We were seated by the window while the rain and wind from the remnants of hurricane Lee were right on the other side of the glass and it was very exciting and cozy. Hint: get the blueberry pie ala mode for dessert!
Is this helpful?
TG
TandG
Greater Boston
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on September 15, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
We were treated to a beautiful sunset and an absolutely delicious meal!
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Greater Boston
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on September 15, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Recommend wholeheartedly. Beautiful and wonderful.
Is this helpful?
c
ccc1978
Washington DC
100 reviews
vip
2.0
100 reviews
Dined on September 15, 2023
overall2food4service1ambience4
Very nice restaurant with a nice atmosphere, great piano music and a very nice water view. The food was very good and well prepared. The problem with this restaurant (and it’s a very big problem) is the service. We waited for almost an hour for our food to come out. In addition, our waitress was just terrible. She was no where to be found for the entire meal, never checked on how the food was or if we needed anything, and when I mentioned that it took quite a long time for our food to come out, she just gave me a dirty look! Considering how much you will spend at this restaurant, and considering the fact that this restaurant is a fine dining restaurant, the service should be excellent, not terrible. This just ruins the dining experience.
Is this helpful?
RM
RichardMc
Greater Boston
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on September 15, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
I was completely taken with this restaurant. From our initial greeting through all aspect our experience was exceptional. Sampled a compressed watermelon starter that had ingredients that I was certain would clash (balsamic, watermelon, Feta cheese) but worked superbly together. Could not recommend the Reading Room Restaurant more highly if I wanted to!!
Is this helpful?
LC
LisaC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 13, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Wonderful restaurant!! Best food that I had on Bar Harbor. They really took care of my 84 year old Aunt. Outstanding food and were attentive to every detail. Wonderful experience
Is this helpful?
LS
LeeS
New York Area
1 review
vip
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 12, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Dinner was fabulous. The best meal we have had in Bar Harbor. Great service
Is this helpful?
OT
OpenTable Diner
Nashville
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 12, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The staf remembered it was our anniversary and gave us a great table overlooking the water. The meal was excellent as was the service.
Is this helpful?
LA
LocalAdventurer
New York Area
13 reviews
5.0
13 reviews
Dined on September 12, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Wonderful experience, beautiful views, great service, delicious food.
Is this helpful?
LV
LindaV
New York Area
7 reviews
vip
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on September 11, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Wonderful view, excellent food, lovely restaurant.
Is this helpful?
B
Bllgh
Greater Boston
7 reviews
2.0
7 reviews
Dined on September 10, 2023
overall2food4service1ambience4
Food was very good but we had a terrible waiter which made for a miserable experience
1 person found this helpful
LP
LisaP
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 10, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
Definitely one of the best places I have eaten at. Bathrooms were extremely clean, the host was friendly and continuing on to the waiter and waitress. Food was amazing and cooked to perfection. We enjoyed the paino playing in the back round as well. Our visit was for a birthday dinner and we were NOT disappointed. Thank you all for a remarkable evening!!
Is this helpful?
SS
SharonS
New York Area
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on September 9, 2023
overall5food5service5ambience5
The food was amazing, the view was breathtaking and the service was top notch. Highly recommend.
Is this helpful?

Safety precautions

Screening
- Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

Reading Room Restaurant at The Bar Harbor Inn is rated 4.7 stars by 1593 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

Party Size

2 people

DateTime

Sept 29, 2023

7:00 p.m.

Booked 10 times today

Google Map for Reading Room Restaurant at The Bar Harbor Inn

1 Newport Dr., Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Additional information

Neighbourhood
Bar Harbor
Hours of Operation
Breakfast Daily 7:00 am–10:30 am Dinner Daily 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
Cuisines
Contemporary American
Dining style
Elegant Dining
Dress Code
Smart Casual
Parking Details
valet parking available
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive Chef
Zachary Dallessandro
Entertainment
Live piano nightly from 6-10 p.m.
Additional
Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Vegan, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.barharborinn.com/
Phone number
(207) 288-3351

Reading Room Restaurant at The Bar Harbor Inn

Make a reservation

Additional information

Seared Sea Scallops

Lobster Bisque

Maine Blueberry Pie

Soups

Lobster BisqueUS$10.00

New England Clam ChowderUS$10.00

Salads

Beets N' BurrataUS$16.00

Knife & Fork CaesarUS$14.00

Bar Harbor BibbUS$15.00

Tasty Beginnings

Chilled Shrimp CocktailUS$17.00

Locally Farmed Maine OystersUS$18.00

Jumbo Lump Crab CakeUS$20.00

Favourite Compressed WatermelonUS$16.00

Hearty Fillers

Duck ConfitUS$34.00

Grilled 8oz Filet MignonUS$46.00

Seared New Zealand Rack of LambUS$46.00

Slow Braised Beef Short RibUS$38.00

Land & SeaUS$52.00

Downeast "Lazy" LobsterUS$52.00

Feuille de Brick Atlantic SalmonUS$36.00

Seared Sea ScallopsUS$36.00

Seared Atlantic SwordfishUS$42.00

Organic Grain StrudelUS$28.00

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Screening

FAQs

How is Reading Room Restaurant at The Bar Harbor Inn restaurant rated?

Is Reading Room Restaurant at The Bar Harbor Inn currently accepting bookings?

Make a reservation

Additional information