The Lost Kitchen & Valentina Bistro

1) Freedom: Formerly of Belfast, Erin French's popular The Lost Kitchen cafe relocated to the town of Freedom last fall. The company wrote on its Facebook page yesterday, "We cannot think of a more appropriate day to open our new doors in Freedom than Independence Day." July 4 will be the official opening of the restaurant, located in The Mill at Freedom Falls; dinner will be available Wednesdays through Saturdays this summer. Reservations are now being taken at 207-382-3333. [FB]

2) Camden: When the restaurant Fromviandoux closed last winter, co-owner Alyson Flemming said, "[My husband Ryan and I] own the building and are hoping to rent the space out to someone whose concept we believe in." According to an anonymous tip, the new occupant of the space, Valentina Bistro, may be soft opening this week. The source continues, "Signage indicates that it will feature "local Maine cuisine"... Italian bent perhaps?" Applicant Michael Sanfilippo got approval last month for a liquor license for the bistro, which supports the notion that Valentina is nearly ready. [Tipline]