Capital Bar & Grille

Capital Bar & Grille opened in February 2026 at 228 Water Street in downtown Augusta, taking over the space that previously housed Whiskey Kitchen. The restaurant is the work of three longtime friends — Andy Chapman, Sotirios Gudis, and Mike Akanji — pitching a sophisticated but relaxed lounge with specialty cocktails, a curated wine and beer list, and a chef-driven food program. Gudis also owns OPA in Waterville and runs the kitchen; Chapman previously managed Drip City Arcade Bar in Waterville. The partners describe the room as lively and generous, aiming to fill a gap in central Maine's dining scene with something more polished than the typical pub but still warmly welcoming.