Canterbury Royale Gourmet Dining Room
We Are Canterbury Royale Gourmet Dining
Our History
Canterbury Royale Gourmet Private Dining Room. Reservation required. A dining distinction offering a 5-course French Haute cuisine, formal, experience by professionally trained Chefs Barbara and Renee. Canterbury offers a menu befitting royalty. Once inside one experiences a feeling of being transported to an Old-World European, fairytale style setting with adornments traversing Victorian/ Edwardian and Gilded Age era. Canterbury Royale has received many accolades in the 20 years it has been in business. Hosting many of the who’s-who’s in the food world.

At Canterbury Royale, every dish is an ode to Old-World luxury, with ingredients sourced from across the globe and a setting that revives the splendor of the Victorian and Edwardian eras.
Old-World Luxury
Our Philosophy
Leave it to us
At Canterbury, your dining experience is personally overseen by Chef Renee and Chef Barbara. Within this intimate setting, there are no additional staff members such as employees, waitresses, waiters, or dishwashers. Every aspect of the restaurant, from the meticulous preparation of each dish to the thoughtful presentation and every detail in between, is managed exclusively by the chefs themselves.
This unique approach ensures that Chef Renee and Chef Barbara not only craft your meals but also serve them, offering a direct line from kitchen to table that is rare in the culinary world. Their hands-on method guarantees that the vision for your dining experience is consistent and personal, allowing for an unparalleled level of care and attention to detail. At Canterbury, the chefs are your hosts, dedicated to providing a memorable and intimate experience where every element of the meal is a testament to their culinary artistry and passion.

Chef Barbara Boucher
Chef Renee
Chef Renee, originally from Long Island, New York, developed a knack for cooking in her strict Grandmother’s kitchen leading her into her culinary arts education. Renee is an accomplished Portrait Artist and Musician.
Chef Barbara Boucher originally from Meriden, CT started her culinary training at an early age. An interest in music and gardening combined with her cooking experience and education carved Barbara into the detailed Chef she is today.
Moving to the border of Maine and Canada, Chefs Barbara and Renee had secured a position as Executive chefs at a high-end resort in Canada. Completion of the construction, the owner passed unexpectedly. The Chefs decided to open Canterbury Royale in Maine in 2004, armed with very little, they literally built Canterbury from the ground up with blood, sweat and tears and a determination that would not waver. All carvings, paintings, woodwork and most construction accomplished by the two-women and devoted family members.
Need overnight accommodation? Canterbury Enchanted Cottage is located next door!
2023
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Erin Ovalle, Maine Life Media, Portland: Featured discussion.
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Vanessa Santarelli, Your Maine Concierge: Exquisite escapes to the County.
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Joe Ricchio on 207 (TV Show): Highlighted Canterbury Royale.
2020-2023
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Featured in "Only in Your State" as "Most Unique and Secluded."
2019-2022
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Reopened post-COVID closure.
2019
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October: Joe Ricchio, Food Critic, Décor Maine magazine featured review.
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Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence.
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Maine Calling, MPBN Radio: Jennifer Rooks with Joe Ricchio, Food editor, Décor Maine.
2018
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August: Downeast Magazine – Photo and caption featured.
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Summer: Ranked as one of the top 10 French restaurants in the State of Maine.
2017
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Yankee Magazine, Editor’s Choice: "Best Fine Dining in Maine."
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Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence.
2016
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Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence.
2015
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#1 Reader’s Choice, DineHere: Best Romantic Restaurant.
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Reader’s Choice, Down East Magazine: Best Romantic Restaurant.
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Featured on "Bill Green’s Maine."
2013
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Featured article in "Our Maine Street."
2011
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Chosen as one of the 50 best restaurants in the state of Maine by Maine Plate.
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Boston Magazine, Spring: "Best of New England."
2010
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Boston Magazine, Fall: "Best of New England."
2009
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Appearance on the “Bob & Sheri” nationally syndicated Radio Show (featuring Bob, Sheri, Lamar & Tony Garcia).2012009 Yankee Magazine, Editors’ Choice, Best of New England Edition
2008
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Boston Sunday Globe (Travel)
2007
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Down East Magazine
2007
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Feature Maine Public Television "Out of the Way Gourmet"
2006
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Yankee Magazine Travel Guide, Editors’ Choice
Accolades & Recognitions
Closure Notice
Dear Valued Guests,
Due to unforeseen medical reasons, Canterbury Royale Gourmet will be closing. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding during this time.
Thank you for your continued support.
Sincerely,
Chef Renee & Chef Barbara