Chase's Family Restaurant in Bangor, Maine

Chase's is the kind of place Bangor families have been coming back to for years, and it's easy to see why. The kitchen turns out honest American food, burgers, fried haddock, chicken parm, cooked fresh and served in generous portions. Prices are reasonable, the staff knows how to make you feel welcome, and there's no pretense anywhere.

• Fresh burgers and scratch-made sauces, not shortcuts.
• Broiled haddock and lobster roll done right.
• Huge portions at reasonable prices, under $60 for two.
• Friendly staff and a genuine neighborhood atmosphere.

Start with a fresh-ground burger if you're not sure what to order. The tuna melt is solid too, with crispy fries and tangy coleslaw on the side. Try the broiled haddock with mashed potatoes and butternut squash, or the chicken parm with house-made Alfredo. The lobster roll is generously portioned. For breakfast, split the Johnny Breakfast (pancakes, eggs, fried potatoes, toast). Save room for a whoopie pie.

Casual and clean, with a relaxed neighborhood vibe. It gets busy, especially for breakfast and dinner, but there's usually only a short wait.

They're serious about cooking from scratch. The broiled haddock comes with mashed potatoes and roasted butternut squash, cooked properly. The chicken parm arrives with house-made Alfredo over linguine. Burgers are fresh-ground. Even the whoopie pies in the case are worth taking home. Whether you're ordering breakfast (the Johnny Breakfast feeds two) or dinner, portions are large enough that you're not leaving hungry.

Regulars and first-timers alike praise the quality and value. Guests consistently mention fresh-made food, friendly staff, and generous portions. One recent visitor noted the broiled haddock and lobster roll were 'generously portioned and just as good,' and appreciated the full dinner for two coming to just over $59.