Its been a long time, everyone, but we're back and we're happy to be looking at new places and experimenting in the kitchen.  
     For our first review, we chose a place in Belfast, Maine called Darby's.  There is a lot of history to this place, and it was opened in 1865 and has been in constant operation ever since.  They are extremely proud of the place, and they should be.  The barback, tin ceiling and walls are all original, and they give the dining rooms a warm, cozy feel.
     We decided to stop in and make a dinner out of some appetizers.  Our choices were chicken wings and something they called "baked cheese", a recipe for which they found in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.  We were going to try their pot stickers as well, but due to a mild allergy to an ingredient, we chose to avoid them.  
     The wings were as crispy as I had asked for, and the sauce was superb.  Darby's did the lowly Buffalo Wing proud with these wings.
     The "baked cheese" was a combination of carmelized onions, Jarlsburg cheese, heavy cream and other ingredients and then baked until the top was brown and bubbly.  This is served with crisp toasted baguette slices for dipping or spreading.  This was, hands down, one of the best appetizers I've had anywhere, ever.  We walked out of the place raving about it and trying to figure out what we could do to it ourselves.  Make no mistake folks, this is one we are going to attempt and it will be making an appearance here before long.  
     Lastly, but by no means least, was the service.  The people were as warm as the decor, and the whole experience was amazing.  Our bartender (we sat at the bar) was attentive and friendly, and was quick to refill drinks while keeping up with everything else she was required to do, which appeared to be quite a bit.  She was never frazzled or flustered, and exhibited genuine concern for her customers.  
     I think, though I'd have to go back to check, that Darby's is my first perfect score as far as the overall review goes.  This place is That Damn Good.  

Steve's Rating:  ***** 5 out of 5 Stars