A hidden gem on Rte 1 in Searsport, Maine.

Rio’s is about 30 minutes north of downtown Camden. It’s a straight shot on Rte 1, and right now the drive is especially gorgeous. We know you’ll love the stunning ocean views and picturesque autumn foliage.

As you likely know, Midcoast Maine has a vibrant foodie scene, and Rio’s fits right in. Chef Cooper, originally from Virginia, skillfully merges southern-style cooking with his French-inspired culinary training, producing truly unique flavors.

Last weekend, we indulged in their Sunday brunch. Our meal began with pear-filled crepes, then moved on to the Spanish Bennie—a delightful mix of warm Serrano ham, toasted English muffin, poached farm egg, and hollandaise—and the Croque Madame, a crispy Parisian ham sandwich complemented by bechamel, a sunny side up egg, and a petite salad. A side order of Spiced Duck Hash was a standout. The attentive bar manager, John Sullivan, surprised us with two mocktails, including a warm spiced apple cider.

Rio's has quickly become one of our top brunch spots, and we're eager to return for dinner!

WORTH NOTING:
Events coming up: they're celebrating Oktoberfest on the 27th & 28th with a four course beer dinner featuring Barreled Souls Brewing company beers. Every Wednesday, they have live music and Happy Hour all day in the lounge. Thursday is our Burger night (they feature a different burger each week).

FAMOUS FOR:
The incredible Sunday brunch. Thursday burger nights. Chef Cooper’s flavor infusions. John’s espresso martini.

HOURS:
Weds thru Sat: 3p-9p
Sun: 10a-1pm; 3p-9p

ADDRESS:
357 W Main Street in Searsport, Maine

WEBSITE:
riosspikedcafe.com

Inside a bar with a wooden counter, barstools, and a wall of liquor bottles behind the bar. There are hanging pendant lights with Edison bulbs and a small TV screen. A graphic overlay mentions 'This week's feature: Rio's' and 'Camden Famous.'
Eggs Benedict with bacon and a side of greens on a white plate, with water glasses in the background.
A table with food and drinks at a restaurant, including a glass of orange juice, a bowl of pasta with vegetables, and a plate with remnants of a meal, with a woman smiling in the background.
A white plate with three large crepes topped with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream, on a wooden table in a dining area.
A white plate with two sunny side up eggs topped with chopped herbs and black pepper, served with crispy bacon, a side of lettuce, and fresh vegetables on a wooden table. In the background, there are two glasses of water and silverware. The image has a logo at the bottom that says 'Camden Famous,' with a graphic of a mountain and a sun.
Four people standing inside a restaurant or bar, with two of them wearing aprons and gloves, likely staff. The background includes a bar counter with bottles and glasses, and hanging lights. The setting has a cozy, rustic vibe with stone walls and a wooden floor.