I went to Fore Street this past weekend and it was good but certainly not great. I've been to Portland numerous times and Fore Street has always been recommended as a top place to eat. I made a reservation a few days before and they called me in the morning to confirm (which was quite nice actually especially given the poor weather). Our waiter was pleasant and helpful. In deciding on a wine, he insisted on bringing a sample so that I would be pleased with the choice. Apparently, the menu changes every night. My girlfriend and I split a fettucine with mushrooms. I got the pork loin for an appetizer and my girlfriend got the duck. Later for dessert (we saved our appetites knowing that Fore Street's reputation), I tried a banana chocolate tart while my girlfriend tried a chocolate peanut butter souffle. For every course, I can say the same thing. The food was good but not exceptional. Perhaps my expectations were higher given the numerous reviews I've seen on tv and in the print media but the food was just good. It is very heavily concentrated om meat, chicken and fish and less on vegetarian/pasta meals. Also, the meat/fish are served separately from side dishes so the combination can be a bit disjointed. The parsnips were good but I'm unsure if they really went with the duck and the pork loin (this particular side is big enough for 2-4 people). I think I was also hoping for something more savory and perhaps some sauces as opposed to a well cooked meat. I'm sure that many will like this place, especially if you a meat and potatoes type but I certainly won't hurry to go back. I would try Fore Street again but I think I would try a few other places first.
Pros: Atmospehere and service
Cons: Food is ""just"" good
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