Cafe Miranda

Cafe Miranda Restaurant Review:

Walk up Oak Street from Main Street in the summer, and you'll see patio lights and feel the vibe of Cafe Miranda before you arrive. A line out the door isn't surprising: this is one of Rockland’s most happening restaurants. In the '90s, owner Kerry Altiero kickstarted Rockland's renaissance with one of Maine's first brick ovens. Cafe Miranda is still ahead of the curve. From farm-to-table (much of the produce comes from the restaurant’s own Headacre Farm) to “Asian fusion meets Italian grandmother’s best recipes,” you’ll find one of New England’s most varied menus. Order a bottle of not-too-oaky Michael David Chardonnay, and contemplate the list of two dozen appetizers, like deconstructed nachos, perfect for sharing. Try sea brisket, a combination of scallops and brisket over spaghetti with tomato and fennel sauce, if you're feeling adventurous. Just-delivered haddock makes fish ‘n’ chips, served with spicy tartar sauce, anything but ordinary. Baked polenta with sautéed mushrooms, tomato, kale and spinach on a bed of ricotta and mozzarella is a standout vegetarian entrée. Baked mac and cheese is also jazzed up with kale, and thick, smoky bacon. The signature brick oven baked bread is a highlight, as is blueberry pie crisp with homemade ice cream (choose from six kinds). Two tips: If the menu says it's spicy, believe it. And don't miss the Elvis bathroom: fans of the King add their own contributions to its massive collection of memorabilia.