The Lucerne Inn - Dedham

We arrived on time for our dinner reservations and waited at the reception and coat check for twenty-five minutes without anyone informing us that we could have a spot in the lounge. The dining area was uncomfortably cold and lacked a welcoming atmosphere, making it difficult to take off our jackets. The service was extremely slow; our meal took two hours to complete, and that was with us rushing through the desserts! The special menu we received as part of the package was significantly limited compared to what was listed on their website, with multiple items unavailable when we arrived. The steak was the worst I’ve ever encountered—it was far better to get a steak at Denny’s. The drinks were overpriced, and the noise level was overwhelming, much louder than most local sports bars. After dinner, we realized how much we had been misled during our booking. The 'executive suite' turned out to be just a basic room with paper-thin walls located on the third floor, without elevator access. We were directed to park through a utility shop, too. The noise from the entertainment below was deafening, and we could easily hear conversations from the rooms nearby. The bed was uncomfortable, and although the accommodations seemed new, they certainly did not reflect the price we paid. Each room at a Hampton Inn has more character than this place. To emphasize just how loud the rooms were: we were told that if we made reservations, we would be able to hear conversations from our room. This proved to be a gross understatement; it was almost impossible to hold a conversation, sleep, or even watch TV because of the noise. In the "Insulation" area, we encountered a wet bar filled with alcohol and a party atmosphere—not unexpected for New Year’s, but there was a three-year-old child wandering around! The DJ was decent, and attendees, who seemed to feel they had overpaid for the experience, appeared to be enjoying themselves. We managed to get some sleep after 2 a.m., only after enduring the last of the drunken shouting and fighting nearby. The next morning, we decided to skip brunch to avoid another chilly hour or two. When we brought our concerns to the reception, the staff dismissed us and acted as if we were being unreasonable, refusing to offer any reimbursement for our issues. Hopefully, readers of this review will take our warning to heart and not make the same mistake we did. This place is not worth the prices they charge for rooms or meals.

When we were ready to be seated, the owner—who was sitting at the end of the bar—came over to us and guided us to our table. It was an interesting experience. We settled at a nice table, and the waitress was quite personable. I ordered the shellfish chowder, but unfortunately, it tasted overwhelmingly salty, as if someone had accidentally spilled half the salt shaker into it! I chose not to say anything, hoping the main course would be better. I was really disappointed. I ordered the vegetarian polenta dish while my friend opted for a steak. Both were excessively salty to the point of being unpalatable, burning our mouths as we tried to eat. We generally don't like to complain, but we felt we had to speak to the waitress about it. She left the room and later returned, seemingly after consulting with one of the owners at the bar. Unfortunately, there was nothing they could do to rectify the situation, which was disheartening, as our appetites were completely ruined. When she asked if we wanted dessert, we declined. Ultimately, she returned to offer a 15% discount on our bill, which shocked us, especially as we both work in the hospitality industry and could think of many better ways to handle such a situation. Neither the owner nor the chef came out to check on our nearly untouched plates. We paid in cash and left the waitress a tip of more than 20% because it wasn’t her fault. I just wish I had used my Amex card so I could dispute the charges! I’ve since warned everyone I know in Bangor and New Hampshire not to waste their time or money at The Lucerne Inn, and my friend is spreading the word in Bar Harbor too. The view is fantastic, but I would recommend bringing your own food! It’s a shame because the previous owners had created such an upscale and delicious dining experience. Just to note, I do enjoy salt, but this was excessive! It seems like the chef either doesn't taste their recipes or has lost their sense of taste. The owners really need to take a class in customer relations!

I don't have enough positive things at this place. the entire high-time process from beginning to end was phenomenal. the owners of the inn are as friendly as possible and were as sweet to work with the day of the event. chelsey, the high-time coordinator for the inn is as fabulous as it gets. she is professional and has a soothing presence that helps many tanned. we had an unexpected thunderstorm coming through 15 minutes before our ceremony and the entire staff worked with us only to back 30 min to allow us the outdoor ceremony of our dreams. we were so incredibly impressed by their flexibility and accommodation. our guests have shaved about eating, the quality of the staff and the magnificent view of this venue. the whole weekend was immaculate from beginning to end. would be married here at 10 o'clock.

I just can't say enough positive things about this place. the entire process from beginning to end was phenomenal. the owners of the inn are as friendly as possible and were as sweet to work with the day of the event. chelsey, the high-time coordinator for the inn is as fabulous as it gets. she is professional and has a soothing presence that helps many tanned. we had an unexpected thunderstorm coming through 15 minutes before our ceremony and the entire staff worked with us only to back 30 min to allow us the outdoor ceremony of our dreams. we were so incredibly impressed by their flexibility and accommodation. our guests have shaved about eating, the quality of the staff and the magnificent view of this venue. the whole weekend was immaculate from beginning to end. would be married here at 10 o'clock.

Had not found a better place for the home when we explored acadia and bar harbor. Each evening there was a spectacular meal served by staff who sleep best in the cozy and spacious room. we made our maine vacation! the owners pay attention to the details, the property is perfectly well maintained. I miss it.