Festina Lente

Not so hidden gem of Kittery! Festina Lente is one of our favorite spots in the area. Thoughtfully curated Italian Wine List (hard to find in the area), stunning seasonal dishes, cozy space, friendly staff. You cannot miss with Festina. Wonderful for date nights or to meet a friend for a quick bite (the appetizers are fantastic).

Been meaning to visit since they opened and was sorely disappointed. The portions and plating aspires to be haute cuisine but the flavors are sverely lacking. We tried several items across the menu and everything was super salt forward. I would have let it go without a review but the nerve to serve a single 1/2" cross section of a small, very bland and somewhat tart and salted burrata over an acidic ensemble of vegetable bits for $12 just put it over the top. Who slices burrata? it looked like you had a dinner party with unexpected guests and decided to share one among six people somehow.Cacio pepe lackluster (again too salty, and too much pepper too, together not letting the pecorino come through whatsoever), winter squash dry and lacking accompaniment, felt like a garnish for another plate.. I hope they get their act together.

This is the very 1st time I’ve given a 1 out of 5 stars. My ravioli dish only had 5 raviolis, it was bland, no taste, $24. My family and I were on vacation and we all ordered an entree, 2 appetizers and wine. The other dishes were larger portions. When I told the owner she didn’t say she was sorry I was unhappy with the dish or said can I get you something else instead. She also didn’t pick up the dish and left it on the table the entire dinner. I even ordered another dish and she still charged me for the $24 ravioli. We also noticed her talking to her other employees about how I was unhappy with the ravioli. I eat out all the time and this is my 1st experience with a restaurant and owner who has very poor unfriendly service. This restaurant will not stay open if it continues to operate this way. I always give 4-5 star rating but not this restaurant.