John Myers dropped by Sur Lie with his camera yesterday, catching the staff during training. The owners will be using the next few days for finishing touches, mock service, and menu testing/tweaking. Early next week, the restaurant will open to the public quietly; the official day will likely be Monday, if a recent Facebook post is any indication. [Update, 9/29/14: The restaurant did, in fact, open on Monday, 9/29.]
As the name (a French term translated as "on lees," referring to wine that hasn't been filtered before bottling) suggests, this tapas-style restaurant looks to impress with its wine selection and tastings. Judging by Myers' photos, the spirits selection should be up to snuff, and word has it a respected local brewer was installing the bar's draft system this week.
Sur Lie is the brainchild of co-owners Krista Cole (a former traveling nurse as well as a Certified Wine Cellar Manager), Caleb Cole (formerly of Hugo's), and Tony Alviar (formerly of 555). Chef Emil Rivera will head up the kitchen; he comes to Maine via DC, where he worked for José Andrés, a well-known small plates restaurateur. Sam Babcock, pictured in the gallery, will manage the bar. See a previous round-up of coverage.
11-13 Free Street, Portland, 207-956-7350, Facebook. Open Monday - Thursday 4 - 10 p.m., Friday - Sunday 4 - 11 p.m. Bar opens at 4 p.m., dining room at 5 p.m. Happy hour 4 - 6 p.m. with snack and drink specials.