Cuzzy’s Restaurant and Tavern - Camden, ME

Ali Farrell
Feb 10
3 min read

A Tale of Two Bars, and One Big Family

If Munchies in Maine has a spiritual home, it’s CUZZY'S Restaurant & tavern.

For many years, (Since the 90s!!) this Camden institution has acted as a lighthouse for locals and travelers alike. To say they have a dedicated regular following is a massive understatement—the regulars here aren’t just customers; they are the fabric of the establishment itself.

Cuzzy’s is unique because it offers two distinct vibes under one roof, serving as our go-to home base in the Midcoast. (Full disclosure: Bill does bartend here, so we’ve seen the magic from both sides of the wood!)

The Day Shift: Food, Folk, and "The Fixer"

From open until 8:00 PM (9:00 PM in the summer), downstairs at Cuzzy’s is a premier spot for conversation. The atmosphere is fueled by a music playlist that refuses to be sleepy—ranging from 60s rock and indie folk to punk. It’s the kind of place where you’ll sit down for a drink and leave with three new friends from the neighboring barstools.

The kitchen is helmed by longtime chef and "fix-anything" everyman Jeff Strout, supported by rising star Molly Blemaster. The menu is diverse, approachable, and consistently delicious.

The "Must-Haves" List:

The Molly Wrap: A local legend in its own right. Specially created for Ali and finally added to the menu this year!

Wood-Fired Pizzas: Perfectly charred and infinitely shareable. A Happy hour favorite.

Hanger Steak Salad: For when you want something hearty but "green."

Steak and Cheese Sub: Classic, gooey, and satisfying.

Butternut Squash Soup & The Chili: The ultimate comfort bowl. Both from scratch and made with love.

The Burger Selection: Six different ways to build your masterpiece.

The Wings: Crispy, saucy, and a staple for any game day. Homemade buffalo sauce you won't find anywhere else.

Chicken Cesar Salad: A staple, and dare I say, the best around.

The Night Shift: Late Nights and Tea Shots

Once the sun goes down and the kitchen closes, the energy shifts. Cuzzy’s holds the title of the only spot in Camden open late every single day. This makes it the destination for a younger, high-energy crowd looking for affordable fun.

The upstairs bar (opening at 3:00 PM daily, and 1:00 PM on Sundays for Bill’s Bistro, hosted by our very own Billy B.) evolves throughout the night. It starts with a relaxed happy hour featuring food and drink specials and free pool and darts from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, but eventually transforms into a late-night hub featuring:

Karaoke & DJs: For when you need to let loose.

The Tea Shot: The unofficial-official drink of a Cuzzy's night out.

The Hidden Patio: A semi-secret outdoor oasis perfect for those humid summer evenings.

The Verdict: Community Over Everything

The staff at Cuzzy’s functions like a protective, chaotic, and loving family. You’ll see them jumping behind the bar to help during a rush or firmly escorting out a patron who has overstayed their welcome- but the community bond here is what the regulars keep on coming back for. It's a spot where we celebrate each other's wins in life and help drown out the losses.

The golden rule here? No politics at the bar. Cuzzy’s is designed to bring people together, not divide them. Whether you come for the local conversation and a burger or stay for the dancing and pool, you’ll be treated like family.

Cuzzy’s is a tale of two experiences. We suggest you find the one that fits you—or better yet just stay for both!

Hornitos: Hell yeah

Booths: Yes - downstairs in the “family restaurant” area

Late night dive: Yes - upstairs in the bar area

Hours: Daily: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM

Location:21 Bay View St, Camden

Tell them Munchies sent you!

What’s your favorite dish at Cuzzys??