DAY BOAT CAFE OPENING - AND ITS ALREADY A FAVORITE
- Kate Curcio
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
There’s nothing better than hearing a new spot is opening close to the cottage. I had been watching the space come together for a while, seeing owners Anna and Kelsey putting in the work themselves—building, designing, and bringing their vision to life. It was impressive to watch, and I couldn’t wait to see the final result.
When I finally made my way over, I parked and walked up thinking, this is exactly the kind of place I’ve been hoping for. Right in downtown Waldoboro on Friendship Road, the café is as inviting as it gets. The bright yellow and blue sign catches your eye immediately, and the exterior has that perfect mix of charm and energy that makes you want to step inside.
And stepping inside? Even better.
The first thing that caught my eye was the curated grocery setup right in the center of the café. Thoughtfully displayed products with everything from specialty items to nostalgic staples like Fluff (which instantly took me back to my childhood) gave the space a warm, homey feel. It’s the kind of place where you want to browse just as much as you want to eat.
To the left, there’s a beautiful bar that practically invites you to sit down and stay awhile. The whole space feels bright, fun, and intentionally designed. You can tell every detail was thought through. Anna and Kelsey’s backgrounds say it all: bartenders, private chefs, summer camp cooks, dishwashers—you name it. That kind of experience shows up in every corner of the café.
And then there’s the food. In the back, you’ll find the ordering counter and a display that makes choosing nearly impossible in the best way.
Corned beef, meatballs, chicken cutlets, pasta salads, and even donut bread pudding were all laid out, each looking better than the last. They also have fridges stocked with pre-made meals, soups, and pies which are perfect for grabbing something to take home.
I went with my go-to chicken parm sandwich.
But this was no ordinary chicken parm.
It was easily one of the best I’ve ever had. Perfectly filled, seasoned, and toasted just right. One of those sandwiches you think about long after you’ve finished it.
Before heading out, I grabbed a mini pie sampler to bring home (highly recommend doing this), and every single one was incredible. The standout for me? The Lemon Thyme Blueberry Pie.
Beyond the food, what really stood out was the feeling inside the café. Anna, Kelsey, and their team were genuinely happy to be there. Welcoming, kind, and clearly excited to serve their community. That kind of energy is something you can’t fake, and it makes all the difference.
Day Boat Café is the kind of place you find yourself already planning your next visit before you even leave. There’s so much more I want to try, and I have a feeling this is going to become a regular stop.
If you’re anywhere near Waldoboro, this one is absolutely worth checking out.
Kate
Day Boat Cafe
17 Friendship Rd, Waldoboro, Maine 04572