Dine Out Maine: In Portland, a new whiskey bar with food that’s much better than it has to be

The contemporary, American-casual menu at the sophisticated Independent Ice Company offers many solid options.

Dine Out Maine: Under new management, Blue Spoon on Munjoy Hill has its ups and downs

The chef has a way with vegetables, but some of the entrees are uneven

Dine Out Maine: At Bob’s Clam Hut in Portland, the meal tells an excellent story

Stick with the whole-belly clams and you can’t go wrong.

Dine Out Maine: Dunstan Tap & Table in Scarborough offers an accomplished take on a familiar menu

Don’t leave the stylish new pub without trying the Reuben.

Don’t know where to eat? Here’s your guide to the Press Herald’s restaurant reviews

Dine Out Maine: Too much of Poké Pop’s food is too sweet and overwrought

On the plus side, the restaurant on Congress Street in Portland is never boring.

Dine Out Maine: Barbecue from Elsmere’s enormous new smoker is s-l-o-w good

We eat our way through the new Portland branch.

Dine Out Maine: Eaux chef ‘takes off the cuffs’ and tinkers – in a Maine way – with Bayou classics

And what a mashup it is – laissez les bon temps rouler, ayuh!

Dine Out Maine: As its name suggests, Flux in Lisbon Falls embraces change

That attitude – revealed in an inventive poutine, an Asian-esque cioppino – mostly works in its favor.

Dine Out Maine: Lio serves well-prepared small plates in a mostly European vein

And they’re mostly inventive and delicious, too.