After decades of shaping the culinary scene in Bar Harbor, longtime chef Dan Baldridge is stepping into a new chapter—this time as the owner of his very first restaurant.
His new eatery, Danny’s Pizza, will reopen the former DragonFire location in Ellsworth’s Mill Mall, breathing new life into a space that had gone quiet earlier this year.
A Veteran Chef Begins a New Journey
From Employee to Owner
For more than 30 years, Baldridge worked behind the scenes in numerous Bar Harbor kitchens, taking on leadership roles for several restaurant owners.
Now 54 and living in Lamoine, he is preparing to run a restaurant under his own name for the first time.
Standing behind a long counter covered with paperwork, he reflected on the moment:
“I’ve never been an owner before. This is my first chance.”
Reviving an Empty Restaurant Space
The site that once housed DragonFire Pizza is undergoing a full transformation. Baldridge has spent weeks:
- Repainting the interior
- Replacing the dining room flooring
- Installing new kitchen equipment
- Testing pizza doughs and topping combinations
His goal is to open within the week and officially join Ellsworth’s busy pizza scene—one that already includes chains like Pat’s Pizza and Pizza Hut, along with beloved local spots such as Finelli’s and Zeppa’s.
Breathing New Life Into Old Equipment
What Remains From DragonFire
Although DragonFire closed after the previous owner couldn’t secure a buyer, Baldridge was able to purchase a few essential items, including:
- The main kitchen oven
- The exhaust hood system
- The iconic wood-fired pizza oven near the entrance
These pieces helped reduce his start-up costs while keeping the space’s character intact.
Mastering the Wood-Fired Oven
Baldridge has spent hours learning the delicate timing and technique of the wood-fired oven, which can bake a pizza in just three minutes.
“Pizza has always been one of my earliest passions,” he said. “I love leaving work smelling like a pizza place.”
Experience That Built a Career
Mentors Who Shaped His Path
Baldridge credits several industry veterans for helping him understand what it takes to run a successful restaurant:
- David Closson – Kebo Valley Golf Course
- Joel Iverson – Southwest Harbor Sub Shop
- Arthur Jacobs – Little Notch Bakery & Café
Their guidance taught him a crucial lesson: keep the menu focused and do fewer things exceptionally well.
What to Expect at Danny’s Pizza
A Menu Built Around Quality
While pizza will be the star, the restaurant will also offer:
- Hot subs
- Soups
- Fresh salads
- Oven-roasted wings (no deep frying)
- Homemade cookies and brownies
- Beer and wine for dine-in customers
Baldridge aims to create a streamlined, high-quality menu rather than an overwhelming one.
“You only do what you do well,” he emphasized.
Support From Family and Community
Baldridge expressed gratitude toward Mill Mall owner Ross Grant and the mall facilities team for helping him prepare the space. Once Danny’s Pizza opens, he’ll have additional support:
- His wife will help on weekends
- Two of his three sons will work part-time
- Only a small team of additional staff will be needed
Looking Toward the Future
Baldridge sees Danny’s Pizza as his long-term passion project and career finale.
“This is what I’m going to do until I retire,” he said. “This is what I love.”
Danny’s Pizza represents both a fresh start and a full-circle moment for Dan Baldridge. After decades spent behind the stove for other restaurant owners, he is finally stepping into his dream role—restaurant owner and head pizzaiolo.
With a revitalized space, a carefully crafted menu, and strong support from family and community, his new venture is set to become a flavorful addition to Ellsworth’s dining scene.
