Casually stylish brasserie for seasonal French- & Spanish-influenced cuisine & craft cocktails.
Corey Gray
I enjoyed the tavern style lighting. The staff is really cheerful and friendly, which is appreciated. The menu is more complex than average. The food is rich with game options and local seasonal components. I found the items to be an interesting fusion of Spanish, French, Italian, and English fare. Hospitality is excellent, enthusiastic and knowledgeable, very team oriented as we were served and assisted by a number of folks. We enjoyed a drink on the special menu to start, and my guest also had a glass of Italian Cabernet that was very well rounded. The dining spaces are narrow but comfortable. The noise level was cheerfully grande, which made it difficult to catch all the details but added an element of confidentiality to the conversation. It was a fine dining experience in Portland, Maine and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a well above average meal!
… moreMona Daneshi
Cheval offers more than just a meal—it’s a genuinely pleasant dining experience. The food is both delicious and unique, but what truly sets it apart is the service: friendly, open, and welcoming. A place where you feel as comfortable as you do impressed. Thank you!!
… moreAstra
This was, hands-down, the BEST dining experience I have EVER had in a restaurant. I have very many dietary restrictions (Vegan, GF, allergic to soy, sesame, garlic,+more). The kitchen was very happy to work with me and accommodate my needs. I have a passion for plant-based culinary artistry, and these guys really know what they’re doing. I was dining alone for my birthday and the staff here really took amazing care of me. Do yourself a favor and stop in here while you’re in Portland, you won’t regret it. I can’t wait to stop in again!! Thanks so much for making my trip 10x better!!
… moreAngelina Bonaventura
Excellent hospitality from beginning to end! The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Our server was happy to discuss the menu and specials with us because everything sounded so good! The truffle pasta special was so delicious we got a second order. We will definitely be back!
… moreRhonda Cameron
Consistently good food and service. Cute atmosphere with open kitchen. Desserts prepared by Ilma (also the owner), a two time James Beard outstanding pastry chef semi-finalist! Portland has such amazing cuisine, I feel blessed to be able to dine at places like Chaval. Everything we have ordered there has been fresh & seasonal and the desserts have all been outstanding.
… moreMatt Dyer
The city’s most talented cooks pass through this kitchen not just to work, but to learn from Damian and Ilma. What emerges is food that feels elevated yet effortless, prepared with intention and consistency every single time. The bar program is thoughtful, the wine list deeply considered, and in countless visits I’ve yet to encounter a misstep. It’s as easy to stop in for a beautifully made drink as it is to settle in for a memorable date night. Pro tip stay for dessert every time.
… moreZachary Poole
Chaval is one of those places that reminds you why dining out can still feel special. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate without feeling stuffy, and the service strikes that perfect balance of knowledgeable, attentive, and relaxed. The menu is adventurous but approachable, and everything we ordered was exceptional from start to finish. Add in a fantastic wine list and you’ve got a restaurant that delivers on every level. A must-visit when you’re in Portland.
… moreEhren Dreisbach
Great wine, cocktails and small plates. The entree was excellent but a little short on veg. Service was exceptional with great conversation and excellent suggestions. We will definitely return!!
… moreLrz
This is one of my favorite spots to take someone if I want to be absolutely positive they’ll be wowed. My favorite dishes were a whole mackerel special and the coq au vin. I’ve also had more adventurous dishes like head cheese here! It’s an incredible and unique restaurant.
… moreSarah Gusky Kemer
We love Chaval! It’s our go-to place for celebratory meals. The service and food are always top notch, and the menu always has new and interesting items (alongside their regulars). We celebrated my dad’s retirement there a few years ago and they went out of their way to make sure we had a nice experience. I always recommend this restaurant to people coming into town!
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