Restaurant Information
Portland, Maine 04101
⏰ Opening Hours
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ℹ️ About This Restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Portland, Maine, the Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro exudes a warm and inviting ambiance that instantly puts diners at ease. With its cozy, casual atmosphere and trendy, romantic vibe, the restaurant offers a delightful escape from the bustling streets outside. The space is elegantly decorated, with natural wood accents and soft lighting that create a soothing, relaxed environment, making it an ideal destination for both intimate gatherings and lively group dinners.
The menu at the Green Elephant is a true testament to the culinary prowess of the establishment, boasting an impressive array of plant-based dishes that cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. From hearty comfort foods to refreshing salads and small plates, the offerings are consistently praised for their exceptional quality and flavor. Standout items include the signature lentil loaf, the creamy mushroom stroganoff, and the decadent vegan chocolate mousse cake, all of which showcase the kitchen's dedication to crafting delectable, meat-free creations. The restaurant also takes great pride in its extensive selection of organic, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every dish is not only delicious but also environmentally conscious.
The service at the Green Elephant is consistently attentive and friendly, with the staff members going above and beyond to ensure that each guest has a memorable dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to accessibility is also noteworthy, with wheelchair-friendly entrances and seating, as well as gender-neutral restrooms. While the price range may be slightly higher than some casual dining establishments, the exceptional quality of the food and the overall ambiance make the Green Elephant a worthwhile investment for those seeking a truly remarkable vegan dining experience in Portland.
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🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance
The Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere that instantly puts diners at ease. The decor is a harmonious blend of rustic and modern elements, with warm lighting casting a gentle glow throughout the space. Exposed brick walls and wooden accents create a charming, homey vibe, while sleek, contemporary furnishings add a touch of sophistication. The overall ambiance is both casual and trendy, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed meal or a lively gathering with friends.
The seating arrangements at the Green Elephant are designed to cater to a variety of dining needs. Comfortable banquettes line the walls, offering cozy nooks for intimate conversations, while well-spaced tables provide ample room for larger groups to enjoy a shared meal. The restaurant also features a handful of high-top tables and a bar area, making it a versatile space that can accommodate solo diners, couples, and parties of all sizes. The overall atmosphere is cozy and inviting, encouraging guests to linger and savor the delicious plant-based offerings.
🌿 Dietary Accommodations
- Gluten-Free Options - Extensive gluten-free menu with clearly labeled dishes, dedicated prep area.
- Raw Food Choices - Selection of raw salads, veggie wraps, and desserts made with uncooked ingredients.
- Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and substitutes available upon request to accommodate allergies.
- Keto-Friendly Items - Avocado toasts, zucchini noodle dishes, and nut-based cheese plates for low-carb diners.
⏰ Best Times to Visit
- Weekday lunch - Avoid the crowds and enjoy a relaxed dining experience with a wide selection of healthy and delicious vegan dishes.
- Friday dinner - Enjoy the cozy and romantic atmosphere, along with a glass of wine from their great wine list, after a long workweek.
- Weekend brunch - Indulge in their popular brunch menu featuring unique vegan takes on classic dishes, complemented by their exceptional tea selection.
⭐ What Makes Us Special
- Extensive vegan and vegetarian menu: Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro offers an extensive menu featuring creative vegan and vegetarian dishes, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences and showcasing the versatility of plant-based cuisine.
- Commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing: The restaurant sources its ingredients from local and sustainable producers, ensuring the freshness and quality of its offerings while supporting the local community and reducing its environmental impact.
- Innovative culinary techniques: The restaurant's chefs employ innovative cooking techniques, such as using fermentation and sous vide methods, to enhance the flavors and textures of their plant-based dishes, delivering a unique dining experience.
📍 Local Area & Neighborhood
The Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro is located in the heart of Portland, Maine's vibrant downtown area. Surrounded by charming brick buildings, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes, the restaurant is situated in a lively, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood that attracts both locals and visitors alike. Within a short stroll, guests can explore the city's renowned waterfront, browse the bustling farmers' market, or visit the renowned Portland Museum of Art, which showcases a diverse collection of works by renowned artists.
The Green Elephant's central location and reputation for exceptional vegetarian and vegan cuisine make it a favorite among the city's health-conscious residents, as well as the growing number of eco-conscious tourists who flock to Portland for its progressive, sustainability-focused culture. Whether dining solo, with friends, or with family, the restaurant's cozy, laid-back atmosphere and attentive service create a welcoming experience that appeals to a diverse range of patrons, from university students to young professionals to retirees.
💬 Customer Reviews
"We took a long driving trip thru the New England coastal area all the way up to Maine. One of the many overnight stops ..."
"Green Elephant is an absolute gem! It’s incredibly hard to find a place that serves truly excellent Thai food, and even ..."
"First time at Green Elephant as we’ve been wanting to try for some time and finally decided to stop in. We had such a wo..."