This week in Portland’s ever-evolving food scene, there’s plenty to sink your teeth into!
Roasty’s has officially opened its doors, dishing out crave-worthy roast beef sandwiches in a casual counter-service setting. Over in Deering Center, Noble Pizzeria and Barbecue is firing up its new spot, bringing the perfect mix of wood-fired pizzas and smoky barbecue to the neighborhood. On the event front, Crispy Gai is hosting a must-try collab dinner, Taco Night has made its delicious return at Regards, and more!
Here’s the rundown of the latest culinary news in Portland, Maine!
News Update
Anything from recent closings, openings, and headliners:Â
- Roasty’s, a brand new counter-service sandwich shop, opened last week at 642 Congress Street. Focusing on roast beef sandwiches, the menu is inspired by different regional styles of roast beef sandwiches, including Philly’s Cheesesteak, Los Angeles’ French Dip, and New Jersey’s ‘Sloppy Joe.’ In addition to sandwiches, Roasty’s has a selection of shoestring fries, sides and sauces. Roasty’s is brought to Portland by Jen Rockwell the owner of Ada’s Kitchen in Rockland. Some may remember Ada’s Kitchen at the same location, which opened in the early half of 2020 and closed in late 2021. Open for dine-in as well as takeout, with online ordering available. Open Wednesday – Sunday from 11am – midnight.
- Noble Pizzeria and BBQ also opened last week on Thursday. Relocating to a new spot within Portland’s Deering Center at 476 Stevens Avenue, former home to Elsmere Barbecue’s Portland location, the move comes after seven successful years on Forest Avenue and after founder Ryan Carey decided it was time to expand. The new space offers a roomy dining area, an 18-seat bar, and a dedicated counter for quick takeout orders. Fans of Noble can still enjoy their classic favorites—chopped sandwiches, wings, smoked meats, and milkshakes—alongside a new addition to the menu: authentic New York-style pizza.
- In a statement made via social media, Rwanda Bean Company’s partners Danielle and Ben Graffius announced that they are “shifting focus to growing wholesale and subscription program as we step away from retail operations. We are more excited than sad about this, as we have found an incredible new operator to take over the Stevens Avenue location.” According to the post, “This individual joined our team six months ago and has felt like family from day one. Many of you have already experienced her warmth and kindness, and we’re confident she will continue to make the coffee shop a beloved gathering place. She plans to continue serving our coffee, while also slowly introducing some exciting changes that we know you will love. This transition feels joyful and reassuring, knowing that we are leaving the shop in such capable hands. Our last day of operations will be 12/22/2024 so if you have loyalty points and/or gift cards to use, that will be the last day to do so.”
- Goodfire Brewing Co. celebrated 7 years in Portland and 2 years in Freeport this past Saturday, November 16th with an Anniversary Party at their Freeport location.
- After a hiatus, Wine Wise’s beloved Wine & Food Walks will be returning. Walks take place through May on the last Saturday of each month in Portland’s vibrant West End restaurant scene. First walk is Saturday, November 30th.
Happenings
Fun for the modern day foodie! Events, happenings, tastings, pop-ups, parties and more!
New Additions
- Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co. is hosting Community Night on Tuesday, November 19th. 5% of all proceeds of the night will go to the Kids First Center, a non-profit organization providing co-parenting classes.
- Crispy Gai is hosting Chef Adrian Lipscombe for a collab dinner on Monday, November 25th. Chef Adrian Lipscombe is a native Texan, fourth generation pitmaster, and founder of 40 Acres PProject, aimed at preserving the legacy of Black agriculture and foodways by acquiring Black-owned land.
- Fork Food Lab is hosting a Small Business Saturday Market on Saturday, November 30th. Browse goods from their members and other local makers. Tickets gets you into the market and also a complimentary beverage.
- Bissell Brothers’ annual Angels Day set for Saturday, December 14th. Sharing four versions of their annual barrel-aged maple porter.
- Fall/winter cocktail menu has arrived at Novel. Portland’s all day cafe and book bar has a drink menu featuring espresso martinis, zero proof, local drafts and cans, wines, iced and hot coffee and more.
- Holiday decor is slowly popping up across the city, including ViA VECCHiA and Papi. Decorations and photos by Elder Farm & Forage.
- Every Monday enjoy Mexican Night at Isa Bistro. Selection of specials inspired by Mexican cuisine.
- Taco Night is back at REGARDS! Every Thursday night!
Ongoing Events
- Ge your orders in for Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving Guide: Dine-In & Preorder Options is a rundown on where to enjoy delicious Thanksgiving meals on the big day. Plus, where to preorder Turkeys, stuffing, pies and all the fixings. New additions include Cantina Calafia, Salt Yard, Terlingua, LB Kitchen and more.
- ICYMI, you can still enjoy Fall Birdie Specials at Ocotillo. Monday: kick off the week with 2 for 1 breakfast tacos 8am – 9am; Wednesday: 1/2 price sweet treat with a cup of coffee; Monday, Thursday, Friday: $14 BBQ Sando of the Week with a 160z Modelo or house-made soda. Here’s a firsthand look at the selection.
- ViA VECCHiA’s 5th annual Feast of the Seven Fishes is set for Christmas Eve, Tuesday, December 24th. This 4 course tasting menu for $95 with optional additional wine pairing will feature local seafood and celebrate the Italian-American tradition of a grand feast on Christmas Eve.
Did we miss something? Have something exciting on the horizon for us to share? Shoot us an email at [email protected]