The Crooked Pine

“For any brides and grooms looking for a rehearsal dinner or welcome party space in the Ogunquit, Maine area, look no further. The Crooked Pine absolutely crushed the kickoff to our wedding weekend. They didn’t just host an event, they set the tone and created memories for us and our guests that felt like pure magic. The space perfectly captures that Southern Maine charm. It felt like hosting a party at our own home, except everything was completely taken care of. The food and service were impeccable, our guests are still raving. The short rib grilled cheeses alone had people in a chokehold. And Jana, the manager, was the true MVP of the night. She made sure every moment went off without a hitch and made the entire evening feel seamless. You could tell she wasn’t JUST doing her job, she genuinely cared and took personal responsibility for making the night special. We’ll be forever grateful and will never forget her and the entire team’s effort. This is what happens when you choose local businesses…real heart, real care. Also, shoutout to Kara Patten Events for coordinating with Jana & the Crooked Pine team to make night one happen. Highly recommend having planner support for your full wedding weekend, it’s 100% worth it and makes the entire weekend feel super smooth and cohesive for you and your guests.”

“I would like to formally report that the chef at The Crooked Pine is almost certainly operating a secret underground flavor laboratory disguised as a restaurant. There is simply no other explanation. I ordered the steak frites. My wife ordered the braised short ribs. What arrived at the table was not food. It was a carefully engineered emotional event. The steak didn’t just taste good — it kicked the door down, grabbed my taste buds, and yelled, “WE RIDE AT DAWN.” Perfectly cooked, ridiculously flavorful, and so tender I briefly considered writing it a thank-you letter. The frites? Crispy, golden, and clearly trained in the ancient arts of deliciousness. Then came my wife’s braised short ribs… and that’s when things escalated into full-blown culinary wizardry. These short ribs were so tender they didn’t need a knife. I’m pretty sure they just politely surrendered. I literally only had one bite and my soul left my body, hovered above the table, and nodded in approval before returning like, “Yes. This is correct.” At one point I stopped mid-chew, looked around, and genuinely wondered if the kitchen staff was back there chanting over a cauldron labeled “UNREASONABLE LEVELS OF FLAVOR.” Because my mouth did not simply enjoy the meal — it experienced a flavor detonation of historic proportions. I’m talking fireworks. Parade. Confetti cannons. National holiday-level excitement. Guy Fieri would nod in approval. Now, let’s address portion sizes, because honesty matters. If you show up with the appetite of a lumberjack who just ran a marathon while fighting a bear, you may notice the portions are a bit smaller than some places. This is not a “leave in a food coma while questioning your life choices” establishment. HOWEVER — and this is critical — what it lacks in sheer volume, it replaces with flavor so powerful it should legally count as two meals emotionally. For me? It was exactly the right amount. I left satisfied, happy, and able to walk like a normal human instead of being wheeled out in a gravy-induced trance. The atmosphere is cozy, charming, and dangerously welcoming — the kind of place where you sit down for dinner and accidentally have a full spiritual awakening over steak frites. Warm vibes, great energy, and food so good it makes you suspicious of every other restaurant you’ve ever trusted. Final verdict: The steak frites changed me as a person. The braised short ribs achieved enlightenment. My taste buds are still filing paperwork. If this is witchcraft, I support it. If there’s a spell involved, it worked. If I suddenly start dreaming about that meal at random hours, I will not be surprised. 11/10. Would return immediately, willingly, and without hesitation to be flavor-enchanted again.”

“We were browsing the menu when a lady approached us and said she came to the Crooked Pine the night before, and was tempted to go back again as it was phenomenal. We were already tempted, but we happily accepted her recommendation haha. Well what can I say, the food was fantastic, we actually DID go two days in a row!! We got the chicken wings which were crunchy yet juicy at the same time, perfect. I had the baked cod first night, so fresh and such a great portion size. The second night I had salmon, amazing! My partner ate the risotto and then the halibut pasta, she said it was the nicest risotto she has ever had. The service was brilliant both evenings, and the rose wine really was delicious. I’ve been thinking about it ever since we left. What an amazing restaurant, we will be back to Ogunquit and the Crooked Pine!”

“Stopped for lunch and had the Grilled Salmon Sandwich. The salmon was thick and well cooked with a delightful dressing. For a side, I chose the Herb-Dijon Potato Salad which (for my taste) had a small amount of vinegar (which I dislike in general) - others will be find with it. Service was friendly and professional. The atmosphere was typical Ogunquit - the place is converted from a residential house.”

“We had a wonderful meal! Unfortunately, they didn’t have the special tonight, the whole Branzino. But everything was really good. In particular, we loved the lobster rolls. Big portions of lobsters in a perfectly toasted bun. Highly recommend getting the wings too! Lastly, I must mention the service, it was stellar! We will definitely be coming back on our annual Ogunquit trip.”