Gather occupies the lower level of a historic building on Elm Street in Yarmouth, Maine, and has become one of the most highly regarded casual fine-dining destinations in the greater Portland region. The restaurant's philosophy centers on sourcing from local farms, working relationships with Maine foragers, and a wood-fired kitchen that transforms regional ingredients into dishes that are simultaneously approachable and ambitious. The menu changes weekly rather than seasonally, reflecting the rapid pace of what the surrounding land provides: wood-fired flatbreads topped with local cheeses and seasonal vegetables, composed small plates built around foraged greens or local mushrooms, and larger preparations such as pork belly with apple or roasted seasonal root vegetables. The dining room is unpretentious in the best sense — a cozy lower-level space with low ceilings, warm lighting, and the kind of neighborhood energy that makes guests linger. The beverage program includes a well-chosen wine list focused on natural and biodynamic producers, local craft beers, and a handful of house cocktails. Reservations through Resy are recommended, particularly for Thursday through Saturday evenings, when the small dining room fills quickly. Yarmouth itself sits ten miles north of Portland on Route 1, making Gather a natural stop for travelers heading to or from Freeport, and the town has an Amtrak Downeaster station connecting to Portland and Boston.
Signature dishes
- Wood-fired flatbreads ($18–$22)
- Pork belly with apple ($32)
- Seasonal vegetable plate ($24)
- Cheese board with local cheeses ($22)
Good to know
- Known for
- Locally sourced and foraged ingredients in a relaxed setting
- Hours
- Tue–Sat 17:00–21:00; closed Sun–Mon
- Reservations
- Recommended; book via Resy
Location
lower level, 8 Elm Street, Yarmouth, ME 04096
43.8007, -70.1854 View on map
Highlights
- Weekly-changing menu sourced from Maine farms and foragers, cooked over a wood fire
- Wood-fired flatbreads with local cheeses and seasonal toppings as a signature first course
- Natural and biodynamic wine list alongside rotating Maine craft beers
- Cozy lower-level neighborhood dining room in a historic Elm Street building in Yarmouth
- Considered one of the finest casual fine-dining destinations north of Portland
Tips for visiting
- Reserve via Resy at least one week ahead for weekend evenings; the small room fills fast
- Ask the server what the foragers brought in that week — the most seasonal item is often the most interesting dish
- The flatbreads are ideal as a shared starter; plan on two for a table of four
- Yarmouth is a convenient stop when driving between Portland and Freeport or further along the mid-coast
- Natural and biodynamic wines by the glass are rotated frequently; ask for the current pour
Accessibility
Gather is located in the lower level of a historic building, accessed via stairs from the street; there is no elevator. The restaurant may not be fully accessible to guests using wheelchairs. Visitors with mobility needs should contact the restaurant before visiting.
Frequently asked questions
How often does the menu change at Gather?
The menu changes weekly, reflecting the rapid pace of what local farms and foragers provide. Regular visitors often find an almost entirely different menu between visits a few weeks apart.
Does Gather take reservations?
Yes; reservations are available through Resy and are recommended for Thursday through Saturday evenings. Walk-ins are welcome when space allows.
What is Gather's price range?
Gather is in the $$ range, making it one of the more accessible fine-casual options in the greater Portland area. A full dinner with wine typically runs $60–$80 per person.
Where is Yarmouth relative to Portland?
Yarmouth is approximately ten miles north of Portland on Route 1, a fifteen-minute drive. The town also has an Amtrak Downeaster station with service to Portland and Boston.
What is the parking situation near Gather?
Street parking on Elm Street and the adjacent village center is available at no charge in the evenings.