11 Central

11 Central is a casual-but-polished spot on Bangor's dining map where the menu swings from elk stew to pork chop pizza without missing a beat. Servers are attentive, the wine list is solid, and the kitchen has a real hand with proteins. Weeknight crowds hint at something worth the short wait at the bar.

• Elk stew and elk corn chowder you won't find elsewhere.
• Scallops and filet cooked with precision.
• Friendly service even during busy Thursday nights.
• Pork chop pizza is enormous and flavorful.

Start with the steamed mussels or the elk corn chowder if it's available. The pork chop pizza is huge and worth the share. Scallops paired with pasta show the kitchen's restraint with protein. The filet stroganoff (sometimes a special) is worth asking about. Finish with cheesecake, and the salads are genuinely crisp if you're starting light.

Brick walls and local art create a comfortable, unpretentious room that reads classy without being stiff. It gets busy enough to feel social, but you can still hear your table.

The kitchen leans into interesting proteins and flavor. Elk stew and elk corn chowder show they're not afraid to play with game. Scallops and lamb get careful attention to doneness. Sides are fresh, and they'll pack leftovers without a hassle. Cocktails are made with thought, not just poured.