The talk of the town this past week is Noble Barbecue’s relocation to Portland’s Deering Center (yes, Elsmere BBQ’s former location finally has a new tenant!)
But in true Portland fashion, the culinary news doesn’t end there, as this week’s edition of The Weekly Food Report also includes food trucks returning to the Eastern Promenade, Dock Fore’s Kentucky Derby bash, opening day for Portland Lobster Co., and our guide to the best outdoor dining spots for soaking up the spring sunshine. Happy eating!
News Update
Anything from recent closings, openings, and headliners:
- Noble Barbecue is relocating to 476 Stevens Ave. in Deering Center and will expand to become Noble Pizzeria & Barbecue.This space was previously occupied by Elsmere BBQ & Wood Grill, and will feature a spacious dining area, an 18-seat bar, and outdoor dining that can accommodate 50 guests. The full report online.
- The popular Puerto Rican cocktail bar and restaurant, Papi, is a Regional Top Ten Honoree for Best New U.S. East Cocktail Bar in the 18th Annual Spirited Awards preseented by Tales of The Cocktail Foundation.
- Outdoor dining season has returned to Portland. Check out the updated Spring/Summer 2024 Outdoor Dining Guide – decks, patios, parklets, sidewalk seating, and rooftop bars.
- Portland Lobster Co. will reopen for the 2024 season on Friday, April 26th.
- Food truck season has returned to the Eastern Promenade. Falafel Mafia celebrated Opening Day 2024 this past weekend, marking their 8th season in Portland. Mr. Tuna’s mobile food truck debuted on the Eastern Promenade for the 2024 season on Monday, April 22nd. Food truck will be operating on the Eastern Promenade while they prepare for opening day of the restaurant and bar on Middle Street.
- Nura Hummus and Falafel has reopened from their break, debuting a newly renovated dining room.
Events, Tastings, and More
Fun for the modern day foodie! Events, happenings, tastings, pop-ups, parties and more!
New Additions
- The 6th annual Seaweed Week is happening now through April 28th. Take a look at some of the offerings/specials available at participating restaurants and businesses.
- Maine Craft Distilling will be hosting the 2nd Annual Bikes for Birgit, a PanMass Challenge Fundraiser, on Saturday, April 27th. Cold drinks, live tunes, local raffle prizes, and good times for a good cause – all donations go directly to cancer research at Dana Farber. Live music at 6PM with Jelly Sauce. $5 suggested donation in exchange for raffle ticket.
- Oxbow Blending & Bottling’s Saison Day 2024 is set for Saturday, April 27th. They’ll be joining friends from across the country in toasting to one of their favorite styles of beer. Featuring music from local pickers, Old Hat Stringband.
- Portland Pie Co. is now offering brunch Saturdays + Sundays – pizza, sandwiches, pastries, cocktails, coffee, tea and much more.
Dock Fore Annual Kentucky Derby Party
- Dock Fore’s Annual Kentucky Derby Party is taking place on Saturday, May 4th. Celebrations include $1.95 PBR or High Life pints (available until the end of the race), authentic Mint Juleps and Prizes for Best Hat.
- Bar Futo’s 2nd annual Guest Chef Dinner in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month is set for Tuesdsay, May 7th. A very special 8-course dinner with sake and wine pairings to benefit Unified Asian Communities – a local organization that strives to unify all Asian communities and empower them through civic engagement, community service and member-led initiatives. Tickets.
- Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 12th – here’s a list of special Mother’s Day brunches (in addition to gift options)! Check back as we add more throughout the weeks.
Ongoing Events
- Bayside Bowl is now offering all day happy hour every Tuesday now thru Labor Day. Includes $3 domestic bottles, half price hot dogs, and half off bowling (walk-ins only). Rooftop bar to reopen soon.
- Cheese Louise After Dark available Fridays + Saturdays 9pm – 2am. The late night food and drink menu can be viewed online.
- Portland Wine Week returns June 10th – 16th, 2024. Checkout our rundown on some of the most exciting offerings – from tastings, wine sails, workshops, brunches and more.
- Rigby Yard will be hosting a Kentucky Derby Watch Party on Saturday, May 4th. Limited seating.
Did we miss something? Have something exciting on the horizon for us to share? Shoot us an email at [email protected]
