A new restaurant in Brunswick offers a solution to this dining dilemma. Open for just over a month, bacari (with a small b) bills itself as “a spirited bistro” with an emphasis on small plates.
“We’re trying to do something where you can come in and have a small plate and have more than one appetizer,” says owner Jeremy Saxton, 28. “Most people in here are having three courses or getting a group of plates and sharing a couple apps.”
The menu is divided into soups, salads, small plates and featured tastings. Current offerings include roasted vegetable salad with chickpeas, fresh mozzarella and a balsamic vinaigrette ($8), charred rosemary beef skewers with blue cheese demi-glace ($10), pan roasted mussels with a spicy tomato broth and fresh herbs ($8), maple thyme char grilled breast of chicken with a natural jus and roasted sweet potato ($14.50) and pan roasted native haddock with roasted corn, red bliss potato and chive cream ($16). Saxton says the featured tastings (what they’d call entrées elsewhere) are about three-quarters the size of a typical main course.
“They’re not huge portions, so people are willing to take a risk,” Saxton explains. “It’s not $34. Instead you’re paying $18 for salmon.”
Saxton, who owned Holbrook’s Wharf and Snack Bar in Cundy’s Harbor for four years and grew up at his family’s Dolphin Restaurant and Marina in Harpswell, says people are more adventurous with the small plates. He notes the popularity of slightly unusual dishes, such as duck rillette with roasted sweet potato and a reduction of cabernet and blueberry ($8) and the crispy layered eggplant with roasted red peppers, ricotta and artichoke hearts ($13) as proof the small plates are allowing people to order out of their comfort zones.
The wine list is small but includes a decent selection of domestic and imported wines. Beers range from locally-brewed to imported. The full bar mixes up fun cocktails, with the chocolate martini and the raspberry martini being particular favorites with the locals.
When it comes to atmosphere, the restaurant gives off a minimalist feel, with maroon walls, black leather chairs, dark cherry tables, a concrete bar and a lounge area with black leather club chairs. Jazz from the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis and Louis Armstrong sets the mood. The dining room seats 24, but Saxton’s been forced to turn people away on both weeknights and weekends.
“If they’re looking for a prime dining time during the week, they should make a reservation and definitely on the weekend,” Saxton advises.
So call ahead if you want to check out this new hot spot. It’s a good bet you won’t leave with food waster’s guilt.
— Avery Yale Kamila
bacari is located at ‘ Maine St. in Brunswick. It’s open Tue.-Sat. from 5-10 pm. Reservations are recommended. Call 725-2600.