New French-American Bistro Chérie to Open in Portland, Maine

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A new neighborhood bistro and café called Chérie is set to open in late spring in Portland, Maine. Chefs Melody Medina and Quinn Williams are taking over the former Quanto Basta space at 249 Congress Street, after building excitement with several pop-up events around the city. Chérie will serve a seasonal menu inspired by French and American cooking, featuring freshly baked breads and pastries, classic dishes like steak frites, roast chicken, whole fish, and pâtés, as well as a full bar with wines, local and imported beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks.

Why it matters

The opening of Chérie adds a new dining option to Portland's vibrant food scene, providing locals and visitors with a welcoming spot to enjoy simple, well-made French-American cuisine and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. As a new independent restaurant, Chérie represents the continued growth and evolution of Portland's culinary landscape.

The details

Chefs Melody Medina and Quinn Williams are taking over the former Quanto Basta space at 249 Congress Street to open their new restaurant Chérie. The team has been building excitement with several pop-up events around the city, and they are now preparing to officially open Chérie in late spring. The restaurant will serve a seasonal menu inspired by French and American cooking, featuring freshly baked breads and pastries, classic dishes like steak frites, roast chicken, whole fish, and pâtés, as well as a full bar with wines, local and imported beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. Medina and Williams plan to make only small changes to the dining room and will keep much of the current layout, including the Fiero Forni oven.

• Chérie is set to open in late spring 2026.
• The team held a Chérie pop-up event at Lambs in September.

What’s next

Chérie plans to open for dinner service Thursday through Monday, with hopes of adding lunch and weekend brunch in the summer.