Cancel

Open app

Search

The Great Lost Bear

3.9 (736 reviews)
Closed 12:00 pm - 10:00 PM

The Great Lost Bear Photos

Business Info

THE GREAT LOST BEAR ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Casual
Classy
Moderate noise
Good for groups

You might also consider

Recommended Reviews - The Great Lost Bear

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Wings
Noah F.

Menu is huge, place is huge, and the food is huge. Love the interior, it's very dark. The wings are by far the best wings I've ever had in Portland. Would definitely recommend

Pete M.

Looking for a place to eat and enjoy some adult beverages we saw an advertisement for this taproom at the hotel. We figured what the hell, let's give it a shot! One of the best decisions we made after a long flight! Walking in we were greeted quickly and escorted to our table outside (as requested). The place was super cute and very quaint. There was a group of what looked like regulars at the bar looking like they were having a great time. The wait staff was very friendly and attentive. The food was oh so amazing! The haddock in my sandwich tasted so fresh I almost thought I caught it myself!!! The fries were great and the beer selection was abundant! Since we are staying in Portland again before our flight out, there is a good chance we will visit the lost bear again before going home!

Marc L.

The mac n cheese & pulled pork nachos tasted awesome!!! Our waitress Liv was very nice.

Stephanie W.

This is such a unique spot and probably my favorite restaurant/bar in Portland. The vibe's impeccable -- very rustic and relaxed. We ordered a lot of food and my favorite was their award winning chilli! They also have lots of great beers on tap that you can try. I discovered my favorite pumpkin beer here (the southern tier pumking ale!) I never developed a taste for pumpkin beer but this one is it! The service was also very quick and friendly. We had a great time here.

PB &J Wings Salt and Vinegar Wings are under! I split the sauces in half
Michelle O.

I just love Great Lost Bear! It has been around forever. It has a great vibe and atmosphere! Staff is always warm and friendly and always patient when you are looking over their gigantic menu!! The food, depending on what you want you really can't go wrong!! I LOVE their wings! Their PB &J wings are my absolute favorite!!! Burgers are delicious!! Open faced sandwiches!! Nachos!!

Mallory W.

I came to Portland to run the Maine Marathon in October. Once I signed up for the race, the first thing I did was look up The Great Lost Bear. My husband and I are both huge fans of the Charlie Parker book series by John Connolly. The main character, Charlie, lives in Portland and often frequents The Great Lost Bear, so we both knew we had to try it. First, it's bigger inside than on first thought! Lots of seating, it has a warm country kitchen vibe with lots of fun decor around. It's fun and unique and I was happy to see a John Connolly poster on the wall. The hostess was very, very nice but our waitress was fantastic. Super friendly, gave great advice and was super attentive. I just am mad I don't remember her name, but she was amazing! As a vegetarian , I was so happy to see so many options available for me. All of the food we had was fantastic. They had a good beer list and I was happy to try a local brew. We both tried the chili and it was so so good! Definitely worth the try! We loved everything so much we wanted to make a second trip back on our (short) trip but didn't get to due to not having time. However, we plan on coming back soon!

Alex Z.

In town for vacation and wanted to get some wings. The Great Lost Bear kept popping up so we decided to give them a chance. Place has the best hole in the wall vibe. Staff beyond chill, friendly, and attentive. Then we get to the food. Easily the best wings I have had in a restaurant. Juicy, crispy, and the best sauce. Fries were solid. Wife loved her chicken sandwich. Grabbed the toll house pie and it was also amazing. Will definitely come again next time we are in the area.

Falafel wrap with fries
Adrienne R.

Came in on Saturday 10/20/24 around 2:30 after flying in from Michigan. I have loved the Great Lost Bear for 20+ years. I am so happy to know the only things that have changed are the beer taps and the staff. This place is a classic. It was pretty quiet, GREAT music was playing and it was the perfect amount of dark inside. We sat at the bar and Ryan took excellent care of us. He was attentive and friendly. We ordered a starter of chips, salsa and guac. The salsa was mild and the guac had a nice spice to it but not too much. It came out almost immediately and we were thrilled. To eat he had the Dixie chicken sandwich with fries for a side. He said it was all really good. We both agreed that the fries are the perfect ratio of fluffy middle and crisp exterior. I had the falafel wrap with fries. It was super tasty. Next time I will asked for more cucumber sauce because it was a wee bit dry and the sauce is REAL tasty. I'm thrilled my friend liked lunch as much as I did. Next time I'm in town I will come back for sure.

Tap menu
Alison M.

It's been a hot minute since I've been to the Bear, and I can't remember why I've not been here for so long! Fun and eclectic atmosphere with wonderful service and delicious food. Husband and I were greeted by a young person who allowed us to choose our seats at the bar. With in minutes the bartender was in front of us for our drink order as well as to ask us if we wanted any food; yes please! We both had Allen's and milk, a Maine staple, perfect chocolate milk brown. Yum! Husband chose the hamburger and the Chicken Cordon blu sandwich. Food took a bit but looked great when it arrived. Fries are different, very good. Chicken was super crispy, Swiss melted and Canadian ham. Really good but on the dry side. Asked if they a side of gravy, sadly they don't have gravy. Ketchup was available, that didn't seem appealing. If they had gravy, that would have sent this sandwich to the moon! Very good as was the hamburger. Excellent place for drinks and classic American food with a southwest flare.

My The Bear's Vegan Chili
Anthony A.

Saturday night we went to GLB have not been in a while ! Patty chose it and we were immediately seated , Our server was Courtney she was very nice. I started w Vegan Chili, with onions and cheese it was amazing and then I got Buffalo Cauliflower and it was Great also. Patty got a Baxter Limoncello Sour and she loved it and she followed up with a Veggie Patty melt and she said it was GREAT Thanks Courtney Ambiance is the GLB hasn't changed it 25 years!!

Canadian burger with fries
Marisa H.

I thought the buffalo wings were delicious. They hit the spot for me. My mom said they were good. We got two pounds which was 8 wings, you can also get one pound. Super messy, but so tasty. We each ordered a burger. I thought the burgers would be thicker and juicier. They didn't seem fresh made per se. They were in a round perfectly molded shape, so I think they're premade or frozen. The taste was okay. They tasted charbroiled. The drinks were good and fairly strong. We got the Malibu Barbie and an El Jefe which was a pineapple margarita.

Flights are the way to go!

See all

3 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

9 days ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Steff D.
4991
1260
20038

1 year ago

Helpful 12
Thanks 1
Love this 2
Oh no 10

8 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

11 months ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 2
Love this 1
Oh no 1

6 months ago

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Zack G.
41
1853
1958

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 1

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

10 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Amy F.
24
25
29

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of L C.
0
4
0

6 months ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1
Photo of Josh M.
4
74
15

9 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Jay M.
1
25
8

1 year ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Gary D.
1
20
14

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 1

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 2
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 months ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 5
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

1 year ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

Page 1 of 19

Ask the Community - The Great Lost Bear

Do they take reservations?

Unfortunately not.

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

You might also consider

Verify this business for free

People searched for American 959 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

Verify this business

Bissell Brothers - Lime Dole Whip ‍

Bissell Brothers

4.3(369 reviews)
1.2 miLibbytown
$$

Several more visits since my last review…read more Some things haven't changed: -- The beers are still great. Swish, Here's to Feeling Good All the Time, Nothing Gold, and Reciprocal are a formidable foursome. At any given time, you can usually get at least two, more often three, sometimes all four. -- You'd be hard pressed (pun intended) to find a better smashburger in Portland, but I'd also put it up against any regularly-offered burger I've had in Portland--smashed or otherwise. I love everything about it, from the high caliber of the beef to the fresh pillowy milk bun to the exhilaratingly strong cure of the bacon to the razor-thin cutting of the vegetables to the execution that gets even a smashburger burger juicy. -- I'm still not crazy about the wings. They have a frozen dinner feel to them. A few things, though, have changed: -- Full service now instead of having to order everything at the bar. That's a plus. -- The place is much more crowded-- including screaming tykes-- on the weekends. Not a plus, but can't fault a place for its own popularity. -- The fries are now the industrial strength coated kind. A big minus and a sad drop off from prior greatness, but better that than from an item off the main cast. -- You can now order beer cans to go from the table rather than having to get in line. A nice convenience. A few things to know: -- It's a surprisingly good option for vegetarians and pescatarians. The veggie burger and the grilled fish sandwich are both much more than solid. -- There's outdoor seating in front of the building and also to the right. -- The bar room to the right of the entrance is adults only, so if those screaming tykes get on your nerves, this is the place to be. -- You can still order beer at the bar if that's your preference over table service. Still a favorite, and the combo of beer, food, and space is tough to beat (Mast Landing and Maine Beer in Freeport are also somewhere in that echelon).

Bissell Brothers still is deserving of the high acclaim and5 star review. One of their most popular…read moreDouble IPAs, called Swish had a new special Triple IPA version brewed called Super Swish. This beer release brought my wife and I for our visit today. As an IPA fan I enjoyed this new version very much for its hop saturated citrusy forward taste that drank quite smooth for the 9.5%. At this point now Bissell is broken into two separate parts. The first will be the space welcoming to families and is more of their restaurant style area. Appeared to be a popular area and does offer reservations. My preferred area is the Bissell Garden as they call it. Those entering need to be of drinking age and have more lounge vibes where you order at the bar. It still offers full kitchen menu so is perfect. Particularly my favorite is snagging bar stools to grab some beers and food. I had to try out the Super Swish while my wife grabbed their red ale named Turnpike. Then food wise we split their kitchen special Classic Poutine. Some of the best classic kept simple poutine I have had. The perfect comfort food for yet another cold weather day in Maine. Have been impressed by all the food from Bissell. Truly the only negative still stands being the fact it's on Thompson's Point and required paid parking (not Bissell Brothers call but still). One of the most popular Maine breweries for a reason especially in the IPA game. Give all their other style of beers a try too though, top notch brewery!

Photos
Bissell Brothers - Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

Bissell Brothers - Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich

Bissell Brothers - "Here's to Feeling Good All the Time" is the name of this beer.

See all

"Here's to Feeling Good All the Time" is the name of this beer.

Room for Improvement

Room for Improvement

4.6(57 reviews)
1.5 miOld Port

I've only heard good things about room for improvement and I was so glad to finally make it there!…read moreThis low ceiling, cozy bar has moody, lighting, booths, bar seating, and an outdoor standing bar. It's such a vibe for a late night drinking or grabbing a quick bite as they have such good food! They've made using the restroom fun as it's decorated with Polaroids from guests, and another funny item (you'll have to see for yourself) You need to get their espresso martini. The cold foam topping it off is the most delicious thing I've ever had.

I enjoyed the bar that use to be located here that was called Jager. It was all German themed and I…read moremostly went for the beers. Room for Improvement has been around for quite awhile at this point and I have heard nothing but positive about it. My wife and I finally made the time to come here and glad we did. With it being Halloween they have a special theme this week called Doom for Improvement so we thought it was the perfect time to visit! We showed up at opening for a spot to beat Halloween crowd on wharf street. I was reminded of Jager right away in the sense it felt familiar while also feeling new. They decked it out with Halloween decorations and bartenders were dressed up. We had Bojack Horseman serving us who was a top notch bartender, friendly, answered any questions and had good vibes! My wife tried their Pineapple Daiquiri and their Espresso Martini. I went with the Halloween themed drinks and got the Rest In Peeses that was a peanut butter (Reese's) themed Old Fashioned. Secondly I grabbed their Plenty Evil that was inspired by the Good & Plenty candy Absinthe Frappe. My wife's drinks were phenomenal and would both be go to orders for her and we both found a new favorite Espresso Martini. My first drink nailed the perfect mix of peanut butter flavor with a classic Old Fashioned. Secondly despite not being a huge licorice/good & plenty candy this drink was delicious! I look forward to returning for a non Halloween themed visit but we were both extremely impressed. If you are looking for a bar to grab drinks and want a nice and chill vibe this is your spot. Expect friendly bartenders who make high quality drinks!

Photos
Room for Improvement - Inside at the bar

Inside at the bar

Room for Improvement - Sauerkraut dog

Sauerkraut dog

Room for Improvement - Their espressotini, made with banana and coconut! Vegan

See all

Their espressotini, made with banana and coconut! Vegan

Another Round - Smoked vanilla bean latte and one of the many games available

Another Round

4.8(29 reviews)
1.2 miOld Port

My partner and I spent many a happy afternoon cozied up in Another Round on rainy days, and…read moreabsolutely love this place. It has spacious tables of varying sizes, so you come as a duo or as a larger group, there are a ton of games on offer that range from shorter game plays to much longer campaigns, the staff are kind, the prices are fair, and the drinks are phenomenal. They also offer both coffee and alcohol, depending on what time of day it is / what you're in the mood for. Also, their smokey orange latte with black sea salt is one of the best coffee drinks I've ever had. This is the perfect place to kill anywhere from 1-4 hours, whether you're looking for something to do on a lazy afternoon or waiting for a reservation at a nearby restaurant. We've since moved out of Portland, but will definitely be returning the next time we visit.

Amazing staff, great location, wonderful message. I have never had a dull moment here. I come to…read morestudy, draw, and just hang out. Plenty of clean bathrooms. And an amazing latte. The Smokey Orange latte is made with peeled orange rinds, you can sometimes catch a glimpse of the prep and it is always so wonderful to see. I have had the privilege of drinking several in this lifetime. I get it warm with oat milk and it is seriously one of a kind. Such a great place, can't thank you guys enough.

Photos
Another Round - Front entrance

Front entrance

Another Round - Shoots and ladders

Shoots and ladders

Another Round - Smokey orange latte with black sea salt

See all

Smokey orange latte with black sea salt

Root Wild - Kombucha Flight of 4 (~$12): blueberry, pineapple, grapefruit, and Purple Wave

Root Wild

4.8(89 reviews)
1.4 miEast End
$

The Quick: insanely delicious kombucha with fun options, a great vibe, and really nice staff…read more The Details: Such a fun place Just off the beaten path of touristy hot spots. The kombucha is delicious. You might end up going home with a growler full! Do a tasting, you won't regret it. It's the best way to try out all the fun exotic flavors The Damage: very reasonable and worth it, especially if you take some home with you!

Overall: what a find! We ought to normalize kombucheries and make this the gold standard. Their…read moreselections are immaculate, the pours are reasonably priced, and the interior vibes are as advertised. Kombucha: a flight of kombucha for less than $20! We tried literally all the flavors and I must say, the Peach hyssop needs to stay. The Maine blueberry is always a classic with its natural blueberry flavor (and not artificial candy esq flavoring). The Aronia berry shiso is also a hit since it has that shiso minty fragrance. The pine and lavender has that musky pine flavor if you're looking for something that tastes a little stronger. But honestly you can't go wrong with any of the choices. Ambience/Decor/Service: walk to the counter and get your pour. I've only been during the late afternoon so there's never been a rush/line. The interior design looks exactly like a brewery but the added plants and high ceilings give it a natural "root wild(erness)" vibe.

Photos
Root Wild - Kombucha Flight of 4 (~$12): blueberry, pineapple, grapefruit, and Purple Wave

Kombucha Flight of 4 (~$12): blueberry, pineapple, grapefruit, and Purple Wave

Root Wild - So delicious!!!

So delicious!!!

Root Wild - Flight

See all

Flight

Austin Street Brewery - Behind the bar

Austin Street Brewery

4.4(80 reviews)
1.1 miEast Bayside
$$

One of the last breweries we visited while in Portland and we were not disappointed. The brewery…read moreis very open, large and has an industrial feel, but a warm atmosphere. The space was warmed by, a variety of plants throughout the space. The ferns are huge and amazing. There is indoor seating and outdoor seating accessible by large garage doors. The staff were very nice and friendly, and offered their opinions on which beers our group would enjoy. They had a large sampling of IPAs, pale ales, lagers, and sours. Our group tried the Austin Street Lagers, Obsolete Vernacular- a mango ale. and a fox street ale, and enjoyed all of them. If in the Portland area. this is a must !

Yet another brewery review from me and another five star! What can I say, I enjoy most breweries…read moreand love seeing the wide variety of them around. If you were unaware Austin Street found their start with their original location in Industrial Way Portland area alongside lots of breweries in the area. I believe my first visit and taste of their beers was around 9 or 8 years ago. Once this location opened up it became the go-to for visiting Austin Street as it's updated and honestly nicer. I enjoyed their first location but let's be real this space is more unique and larger! Been to this spot many a times including earlier today. They still have an industrial feel to the place but have so many plants all around to brighten the spot up. Inside while beautiful I must say the true highlight is during warm weather with their large garage doors open. It also adds tons of additional seating to enjoy the weather too! Staff is always so friendly and ready to pour your drink with a smile. Beer wise they have a large variety including IPAs, pale ales, lagers, and sours. Including a special release each year made for International Women's.For non-beer drinkers don't fret, you can find wine, ciders, seltzers, cocktails, and plenty of non-alcoholic options. They also offer some snacks and frequently have food trucks/carts serving as well. With a lot of events scheduled too, including today that was a Summer Puppy Pool Party so as you can tell they are dog friendly. One of the many amazing breweries in this area of Portland. Well made beers with enough options for everyone to enjoy a drink even non beer fans. A place that supports many good charities/causes and hosts lots of events.

Photos
Austin Street Brewery
Austin Street Brewery
Austin Street Brewery

See all

The Great Lost Bear - tradamerican - Updated May 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...