State Lunch image

State Lunch

Restaurant Bar Cocktail bar

One of the Most Reviewed Cocktail bars in Augusta


Address

217 Water St, Augusta, ME 04330, United States

Website

statelunch.com

Contact

+1 207-213-6025

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (399 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 11 am to 10 pm
  • Tuesday: 11 am to 10 pm
  • Wednesday: 11 am to 10 pm
  • Thursday: 11 am to 10 pm
  • Friday: 11 am to 11 pm
  • Saturday: 11 am to 11 pm
  • Sunday: 11 am to 3 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: good (20) chicken (19) drinks (14) menu (13) State (13) atmosphere (11) waffles (11) Ramen (10) great (10) delicious (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Sam W. 2 years ago on Google
    Not a very large menu or restaurant, but the food here is very good and the service is nice. The atmosphere is clean and modern. This is the place I have to go for my birthdays. I got the "Pork Belly Bao Bun" and the "Vegetable Miso Ramen" so good.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Deb S. 2 years ago on Google
    Oh My! The atmosphere was Awesome, the service was good. The waitress was friendly and attentive. The drinks were the bomb!(fantastic) the presentation of the food was amazing. Whoever owns this place knows what they're doing. Top notch. The food was just as amazing. A little pricey but worth it. I'd definitely recommend this place to friends 😊 and family. 👌🌟🌝
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michael L. 1 year ago on Google • 266 reviews
    State lunch was a wonderful lunch experience. My friends and I were traveling through on a hiking adventure and randomly chose here. We couldn't have made a better choice. The drink menu had plenty to choose from and the menu was well balanced with choices. We tried the bao buns pork and tofu, beautiful! The buffalo chicken wrap was the special, P's hot chicken and muffaletta. Everyone loved their meals, the fries have a delicious seasoning and are plentiful. The portion to price ratio is very reasonable. The atmosphere was chill and the staff was kind and accommodating. No complaints or concerns to be found. Enjoy!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Danielle 3 years ago on Google
    Went here for the first time with my aunt and mother in law. The place is very hip. Not too crowded on a Sunday. They were open until 2. We weren't rushed for people who showed at 1 pm. Our waitress was great. The food was delicious. My mother in law had the beef brisket which she could not say enough good things about. My aunt and I had the chicken and waffles with collard greens. Omg were they so good! The chicken was crispy, juicy and tender. The collard greens had a kick to them from the cherry peppers and the waffle was light and fluffy. The bourbon maple syrup was drizzled over the waffles and man could you taste the Bourbon. Definitely would recommend trying this dish. I gave it four stars because the menu was pretty limited. Nothing else appealed to me, that's why I went with the Chicken and Waffles. Not sure if the menu is different during the week, but I'm over an hour away and probably won't be back because it's too far, but I would certainly recommend it if you live in the vicinity and don't mind paying $18 for chicken and waffles.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brittany M. 9 months ago on Google • 8 reviews
    Stopped in for dinner and drinks, and was not disappointed! Everyone was very friendly and the cocktails and food were both excellent. Would definitely recommend!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mandy R. 3 months ago on Google • 127 reviews New
    Food is pretty good. Only had a couple starters but they were good. I'd go back and try it again. The cocktails are good, not as nice as the photos they post of them but I suppose that's expected. Would be nice if they looked that fancy when you ordered it. Service was good. Everyone is pleasant
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark H. 2 months ago on Google • 28 reviews New
    State Lunch is by far the best place to have dinner and drinks in the Augusta area. We have eaten here several times since they have opened and the meals have always been incredible. They are always changing up the menu with new dinner options that will wow you with their presentation and flavor. The drink menu themes are fun and always changing. We love the atmosphere here. State Lunch has become our favorite date night spot in the central Maine area. You won't be disappointed!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Meg D. 7 months ago on Google
    The Sciracha Chicken Wings are SO DELICIOUS! Just WOW! Best flavors I've ever had and I have a lot of wings in my life. Tastes amazing with both the Chive(Ranch like) sauce and the garlic aioli! The Chicken Sandwich they had on the dinner special this Friday night was the best chicken sandwich we've ever had as well! Highly recommend trying State Lunch while you're in Augusta.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nurse M. 2 years ago on Google
    It has been a very long time since my husband and I have gone to a restaurant where so much thought has gone into the ingredients of the food, preparation of the food, and drinks. The atmosphere is peculiar but fun and enjoyable especially where we have been cooped inside for so long. The owner came to greet us personally. The customer service staff checked on us constantly despite there being other people in the restaurant so this must be their norm. Their drinks are absolutely amazing and so flavorful with a punch of amazingness; not to mention beautiful. The food is fresh, delicious, and so flavorful. The prices are moderate. My husband and I each had some drinks, appetizers, dinner and dessert. We loved it very much and we will definitely go back. This restaurant is a very welcoming addition to Augusta, Maine. If you are in the area you have to go and try things. You will not be disappointed. We were there by 3:30 in the afternoon and got out by about five some thing on Wednesday and it was perfect. Thank you so much for making our date night so much fun.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carrie H. 8 months ago on Google
    I’ve been to State Lunch many times, and the food and drinks are always excellent. I went yesterday and they were doing Alice in Wonderland themed cocktails. The one pictured in the tea cup was a hibiscus gin cocktail, and it was delicious. I love the fries with garlic aioli, and the pork belly bowl buns and pork belly ramen are my go tos. Always so good.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kurt K. 2 years ago on Google
    1st time visitor - my wife and I stopped in for lunch while shopping in Augusta. The place was packed but we only ended up waiting a couple of minutes. The waitress set us up quickly with menus and returned for drink orders quickly. My wife got the special margarita that featured ginger, strawberries, and white peaches - she said it was really good. I stuck to a local Cushnoc porter, also good. She ordered the fried chicken sandwich and I got the cheeseburger. The food arrived hot and ready in a timely manner and we dug in. We both remarked at the pile of fries that each plate came with...hot, crispy, salty, garlicky goodness! We both thought the food was tasty and agreed we'd try this place again. Two thumbs up! Special callout to the wait staff who were super attentive and checked in to make sure our meal was to our liking!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Christine B. 1 year ago on Google
    The absolute best fried chicken sandwich I have ever had! So glad it was the special the day I went. The all American looks very intimidating but enjoyable.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 co b. 1 year ago on Google
    Traveling through from Chicago (and my partner from Indianapolis) we happened upon State Linch looking for a late lunch on our way to the coast. Although it was hard to tell it was anything more than a nice bar from the sidewalk, the coffee shop across the street kindly recommended State Linch among other local spots. Stating it was a “slightly upscale unpretentious gastro bar with an award winning menu”. We couldn’t pass up a recommendation like that and jetted across the street. I ordered the red Thai chicken Ramen with chili garlic oil and he ordered the State Lunch Burger. We split both. The burger was the most flavorful, juicy burger with the perfect amount of crisp char and placed on a bun that was light but held up to the burger with a wonderful aoli. The garlic, pepper Parmesan fries were amazing. The ramen was full and flavorful with the right balance of kick and the chicken was so tender. We literally drank up every drop. The kicker was the selection of local brew on tap and they sent us up the street to buy a 4 pack to take home. A quaint town and incredible food. This was well worth the trek off the beaten path.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zach S. 2 months ago on Google • 33 reviews New
    This place is very unique for where it is. Food is refined and definitely worth the trip. Drinks are strong and precise. The Maine crab stuffed haddock is a killer dish as are the fried croutons arugula salad with tomatoes and goat cheese . In such a small town this is truly exceptional putting it lightly.

  • 5/5 Cheryl P. 11 months ago on Google • 24 reviews
    Visited State Lunch on a warm Spring afternoon and was treated with an absolutely delicious lunch. The staff was warm and friendly. We decided to sit at the bar where we were told if the daily cocktail specials. We opted for water but the cocktails sounded wonderful. The venue is a little on the dark side but there was wonderful sunlight streaming in the window. My friend had the Carrrot Ginger Soup. It was the perfect balance of flavor. You could clearly taste each ingredient. The soup was served with crusty bread lightly toasted and brushed with butter and chopped parsley. I enjoyed the Tai Red Curry Ramen that offered the perfect amount of heat that didn't overpower the fresh ingredients in the soup. The Ramen noodles are home made, such a wonderful dish. I highly recommend State Lunch!

  • 5/5 Michael P. 8 months ago on Google • 15 reviews
    Met Shawn the owner this morning outside my building and found out he owned the place. Went to try it out and OMG… it’s so good. Kung Pao Brussel Sprouts and spicy shrimp ramen. Definitely my new joint. Adding that the Kimchi Burger is… 🤤

  • 5/5 Robin D. 7 months ago on Google • 13 reviews
    Creative cocktails like grapefruit Sangria. Very well prepared food. Great service. Funky atmosphere. The music was a bit loud for my taste. On the expensive side.

  • 5/5 Beth C. 10 months ago on Google
    My first time to State Lunch in downtown Augusta. I have heard great buzz about this eatery, and it is well deserved!! The atmosphere is cool and laid back with local artistry. There is bar seating as well as tables. Many craft cocktails, and at least 30 whiskeys from which to choose. Local draught beers are on tap as well. Also a great wine list. The menu is streamlined, but eclectic with the eye catching homemade Shio Ramen Bowls. I chose the Spicy Shrimp Shio Ramen Bowl ($18), consisting of 6 plump shrimp, perfectly cooked ramen, mushrooms, cabbage, bean sprouts, jalapeño, chili oil, scallions, and a halved soft cooked egg. WOW!! This was the best ramen bowl I have ever eaten. The depth of the broth was so complex, well balanced and flavorful. So good!!! Many other tantalizing menu offerings. Absolutely superb! Get here!!

  • 5/5 Lynn J. 8 months ago on Google
    Always a great experience! Everything ok the menu is delicious, the themed drinks are always fun to explore, and the staff are wonderful! 5 stars!

  • 5/5 Geoff 10 months ago on Google
    Incredible food, and incredible service. The entire staff was welcoming and friendly. Jazz was an excellent host, offering me tips on places to visit. The chicken and waffles were the best I've ever had, period. This experience along makes me wish I could visit Augusta more often. If anyone at State is reading this: Keep it up! Yall rock!

  • 5/5 AM W. 1 year ago on Google
    This was an epic brunch. You need to visit and try the chicken and waffles. We have had them in numerous locales. Screen Door in Portland OR was always the one we talked about but no longer. If you are in Augusta do yourself a favor and go here. It is off the charts!

  • 4/5 Ellybeth H. 1 year ago on Google
    We just had drinks and they were SO good!! It’s amazing how they come up with these ideas. Both our drinks were delicious. Only down side is that the prices seem just too high for a place in Augusta. Otherwise we are coming back!

  • 5/5 Mike K. 1 year ago on Google
    We live in Sidney and this is the best meal to get in the whole state! The ramen is incredible lunch or dinner. Bao buns are always to please. And the specials (we had the fried chicken) will make you wake up in the morning craving more. To top that, crispy fries. Our server, Joc, has been serving us for 3 years and is always the best. A repeat must eat!

  • 5/5 Ian B. 1 year ago on Google
    Last year we came to State Lunch for my birthday. I always wanted to try Raman (not top Raman from the supermarket). I was not disappointed. The staff was friendly and I liked the atmosphere. Fast forward almost a year, and we went back today (11-26-2022). This place still does not disappoint. I didn't have their Ramam this time, but considered it, instead I had a Chicken and Waffles special. I have had Chicken and Waffles at other local places, but this one was probably the best. The waffles were soft on the inside and had a slight crunch to the outside. The chicken was fried, but not too battery and a hint of heat. So good. My wife had a couple of BAO buns with pork belly. They were very good. She also had The Tin Man's heart drink. She said it was fine, nothing memorable. I had the Upside Down off the seasonal drink menu. That was very good (I actually had 2). Very smooth and quite creative. Typically if I have a positive review I don't mention anything that they could improve on, but this time I will. With the chicken and waffles they could have a little more syrup. They could also have added a hint of heat to the syrup as well. This is a place that we will be going back to, and I have to say that I am disappointed in myself that it took almost a year to go back. A great place for a snack and a drink, or for a nice different meal. A must try.

  • 5/5 Kalua W. 1 year ago on Google
    FANTASTIC Coconut Margarita on the rocks to wash down the fanciest upscaled chicken and waffles. Who would've thought to add collard greens, bacon and eggs? BRILLIANT and DELICIOUS !! Setting is a nice San Francisco sheek bar, clean and tables spaced close for communal eating and meeting. Music was a bit loud, background techno would be more appropriate considering the restaurant gets really loud trying to talk over the music. Overall great place to eat. Waitress Marta plays her part just perfectly without overstepping and waiting till you've taken that first bite to pounce on u with satisfaction inquiries. She fits this bar exactly as she should. This place has no blended drinks or ice but this VERY expensive eatery is "worth every dollar spent here. Satisfaction GUARANTEED 💯

  • 5/5 Brenda B. 2 years ago on Google
    Wow….from the atmosphere, the food, the cocktails to the service. This place hit all the marks! You will not be disappointed. Looking forward to another visit to this hidden gem.

  • 5/5 Karyn W. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is a hidden gem!! The atmosphere was so cool. As my hubby and I were seated, Dirty Dancing played on one of the TV's and another movie I didn't recognize but with a lot of actors in their younger years. The drink I got was called "The Molly Ringwald" and it was delicious. My hubby ordered their chicken and waffles and the waffle even had cheddar cheese in it. It was AMAzing, order it for sure if you go! I ordered the ramen and it was yummy, but I liked the chicken and waffles better. We also ordered the pork belly bao buns and they were perfect. So tender and salty deliciousness. Hit the spot for sure and we will be back!

  • 5/5 Kat N. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing food and drinks! The atmosphere was great as well, and the owner even stopped by our table to check in. They were busy even on a Monday night, so reservations aren't a bad idea, but I can't reccomend them enough!

  • 5/5 Eric B. 2 years ago on Google
    If you're looking for food in Augusta, look no further. Got recommended this place by the coffee shop across the street and I'm so glad he did because based off the name alone I wouldn't have gone. They have a good amount of Vietnamese food, as well as other things like burgers and chicken and waffles. The noodles for the Ramen are made in house, and I've seen few places that do this. Girlfriend got the Vegetarian Ramen and I got the Bahn Mi sandwich. I live in Honolulu where there are copious amounts of Vietnamese and Ramen places and this was the best Vegetarian Ramen we've had yet. The Bahn Mi is not your typical or traditional Bahn Mi but... mother of god this was delicious, likely one of the best sandwiches I've had in my life. It's been a while since a restaurant has really impressed me and this one did! I have no idea how there's such incredible food in this small town but if you don't stop here, you're missing out. Our server Ashley was also great and gave us an awesome recommendation to check out the Penobscot Bridge Observatory on our way to Acadia.

  • 5/5 Douglas L. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a great place for fine dining and great drinks. The list of whiskies was probably 40 names. They have their own drink menu which was fun to try. The food was fantastic! Real ramen. Great quirky art work. Noisy from the conversations being had, so everyone was enjoying themselves. Water street has really changed. Great place!

  • 5/5 P S. 2 years ago on Google
    The is food is excellent and the service friendly, polite and prompt. The house margarita is as good as one could expect even if a little pricey. The cheese burger is special. Cooked to a T. My brother had the rigaton special and he liked it very much

  • 4/5 Jeffrey P. 2 years ago on Google
    The place was clean and beautiful. The staff was friendly and helpful. The prices were kind of high but the food and drinks were amazing. I would go back. 👍🏼👍🏼also they used paper straws a plus


Call +1 207-213-6025 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Free of charge street parking
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Coffee
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Comfort food
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Healthy options
    • ✓️ Happy-hour drinks
  • Popular for
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Brunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeaway
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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