Business Spotlight: Standard Gastropub

Standard Gastropub may be one of the best-kept secrets in the Lakes Region of Maine but for more than a decade now it’s been delighting visitors and year-round residents with some of the tastiest food in the Pine Tree State.

Standard Gastropub is at 233 Main St. in Bridgton and draws
culinary influences  from around the world. It also offers a 
vast assortment of craft and specialty beers.
COURTESY PHOTO   

Started by William Holmes, Standard Gastropub can be found at 233 Main St. in Bridgton and features delicious high-quality everyday dishes and an enormous selection of more than 200 different craft, specialty and rare/hard to find beers, house-crafted cocktails, as well as wines, and sake on tap; all offered in a comfortable setting to gather with friends or family.

Holmes grew up locally and opened the restaurant when he moved back to Maine after living and working in Massachusetts. He’s not only Standard Gastropub’s founder and owner, but also the restaurant’s head chef.

“I’ve always been creative and I like to cook” Holmes said, and with more than 20 years of working in restaurants the proof is on the plate. “Nothing compares to the feeling of instant gratification from cooking and serving someone a meal. Sharing in the joy it brings them; becoming a small part of their life, their celebration, or simply, their comfort is an unmatched feeling of success.”

Open year-round, culinary influences are drawn from street food around the world along with the rich history of American barbecue pits in the Deep South and 60’s car-hop style burger joints out west. Holmes says that the menu at Standard Gastropub changes seasonally and some of its most popular dishes include their dry-aged smash burgers and crispy Belgian style fries, Brussels sprouts, a fried chicken sandwich, and coffee rubbed smoked brisket burnt-ends. Other rotating items like the Quesabirria Beef-Dip sandwich, Musubi Mac and Cheese, poutine, unique & flavorful salads, and specialty sauces keep everyone coming back to try something new.

Plenty of gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options are available. Don’t miss their out-of-this-world Curry Ketchup, and be sure to check out Brunch, or the Thai pop-up menu offered Sunday nights 4 to 9 p.m. and Monday for lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. through the Spring.

Holmes says the former chef and owner of Chao Thai Restaurant, which used to be located across the street from Standard Gastropub, now offers her authentic Thai menu to keep things fresh and fun for patrons.

“We’re really a place that is adaptable and responds to changing times,” Holmes said. “We believe in serving quality 100% scratch-made food. Some may have the misconception that we’re expensive, but we offer a wide array of affordable items and are all about having fun.”

This year the restaurant is opening a new outdoor space which will seat up to 100 and offers space for yard games and activities as well as the ability to feature live music and local bands.

Online reviews are nothing less than exceptional.

“What an extraordinary spot within idyllic Bridgton – high end ‘pub’ fare (absolutely delicious every time) with a broad and exciting beer selection (draught, bottles, and cans). An exciting adventure for foodies and beer connoisseurs! The wait staff is always excellent, friendly, and helpful, and the atmosphere is both inviting bustling, and hip--a must-visit if you're in the area!” Steve Michaud

“Not that there are a lot of choices for exceptional food in Bridgton, but the Gastropub has the best food I've had in town. The Burnt Ends and Crispy Sprouts (Brussel sprouts) are exceptionally good. On top of the excellent food, the beer selection is really good as well.” Joe Mineo

“Omg the food here is amazing!!! Get the Brussel sprouts as a side and it will NOT disappoint! The fries were also delicious. Great beverages of all kinds too. Can't say enough good about the food! 5 stars is not high enough!” Karyn W.

“We stumbled upon Standard Gastropub while visiting Bridgton for the day. The food was excellent, and their assortment of beer was vast and extensive. I highly recommend the brussels sprouts, the smash burger, and the fries. The servers were all very friendly and the food was delicious. Great vibe all around.” Kaye K.

This Spring Standard Gastropub is open from noon to 9 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays; with expanded hours to be expected for the summer season.

To learn more about Standard Gastropub or place a takeout order, visit them online at standardgastropub.com/ or call 207-647-4100. Find them on social media at standardgastropub <