Central Provisions in Portland, Maine

Central Provisions is the kind of place where you order half a dozen small plates and spend the night discovering what works. Located in a rustic brick room in Portland, it draws regulars and visitors alike for eclectic cooking that ranges from squash curry to gnocchi to foie gras preparations. The menu shifts, the cocktails are solid, and the service staff will work with you on allergies and preferences without making a fuss.

• Gnocchi and smoked carrots are standouts worth ordering.
• Apple salad shows the kitchen's range: poached, pickled, raw apples with walnut pesto.
• Service team takes allergies seriously and checks in often.
• Cocktails like Unleash the Lion justify another round.

The gnocchi is rich and cheesy with mushrooms; the smoked carrots and apple salad show up often in praise. Squash curry, foie gras mousse (with its grilled bread), and the corn bread special are worth ordering. Brunch brings tuna crudo and duck confit hash brown. Pair it all with Unleash the Lion or the Gibson Girl.

Brick walls, warm lighting, a mix of bar and table seating. Busy on weekends and some evenings, but the noise stays conversational.

Guests rave about service attention and the chance to sample a range of flavors. One recent visitor called the gnocchi 'probably one of the best things I've ever had.' Another noted the allergy menu and attentive server made them feel cared for. A few mention the food can be uneven, but most leave wanting to come back.