This week’s food scene is a bittersweet one. We’re saying goodbye to some beloved spots—Local 188, Salvage BBQ, and The North Point have all closed their doors, leaving a big hole in Portland’s culinary scene.
But on the bright side, there’s new life coming to the city! Real Maine Flavors just opened its doors, serving up gluten free ice cream, plus, Benny’s and Sissle and Daughters are both on the horizon coming soon!
Here’s the rundown of the latest culinary news in Portland, Maine!
News Update
Anything from recent closings, openings, and headliners:
- Another wave of restaurant and bar closures has hit Portland this past week. Local 188 has closed after 25 years of business, as well as Salvage BBQ, which opened in 2013. The North Point has also closed after 12 years in the Old Port. In a statement made via social media, the decision to close The North Point “was made in light of rising costs, difficulty staffing, and generally decreasing sales.” Owner Dan Talmatch also added “I want to offer my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all that have made The North Point a Portland staple for nearly 12 years. We’re still loving you right back.”
- Good news this week includes the announcement that Ramona’s owner Josh Sobel will be opening a 2nd restaurant, Benny’s, in the former Broken Arrow space at 545 Congress Street. Benny’s will be open for lunch and dinner. During the daytime Benny’s will serve as a Philly-inspired counter-service sandwiches shop. By night, Benny’s will transition into a sit down pasta and salad restaurant with cocktails available. Benny’s timeline to open is early Spring 2025.
- Real Maine Flavor, a new ice cream shop in the West End, has opened at 175 Spring Street/144 State Street, in the space next to Chocolats Passion in the former Mercy Hospital. Real Maine Flavors has been in business since 2016 and is owned by Susan Purcell and Andrew Applegate. Real Maine Flavor serves up certified gluten-free organic ice cream and treats. Open Friday – Sunday 3pm – 6pm.
- Higher Grounds is celebrating 7 years of business. Stated that “more info coming soon on anniversary celebration” in recent social media post.
- Sissle and Daughters shared a sneak peek at their space coming this fall to Woodford’s Corner at 634 Forest Avenue. A coffee, wine bar and grocery brought to Portland from the team behind The Cheese Shop of Portland, Sissle and Daughters teased via social media, “Just a couple more Fridays before you can belly up to this gorgeous bar. Stay tuned for more frequent updates over the days to come!”
- Highroller Lobster Co. and 320 Ink have partnered up to raise funds for hurricane disaster relief. 100% of the proceeds from the truly Limited Edition Highroller Lobster tee will go to the American Red Cross Hurricane relief fund. Order your shirt online. Preorder is open through October 15th.
- The annual 207 Beer Week is set for Monday November 4th – Sunday, November 10th, 2024. Presented by Maine Brewers’ Guild, 207 Beer Week includes events and happenings all across Maine at breweries, restaurants, craft beer bars, and beer distributors. More to come – including schedule of events!
Fun for the modern day foodie! Events, happenings, tastings, pop-ups, parties and more!
New Additions
- Happy hour at THE END of Portland runs daily from 4pm – 7pm.
- Happy hour at The Continental is daily from 3pm – 5pm and then again 9pm – close.
- Coveside Coffee is hosting a Crafts, Crepes, and Creeps mini-Market Saturday, October 19th. Will feature delicious eats from Crepe Elizabeth and crafts from talented local makers.
- Smoked Portland is hosting a Oktoberfest celebration Saturday, October 19th.
- Mr. Tuna will be hosting Chef Endo for an Omakase pop-up on Tuesady, October 29th and Wednesday, October 30th. Chef Norihito Endo will be traveling from Tokyo, Japan to take over Mr. Tuna for an 18-course omakase. While the event is sold out, you can put your name on the waitlist by emailing hello@mrtunamaine.com
- Rising Tide Brewing will be hosting an Election Day Pig Roast on Tuesday, November 5th. A traditional pig roast with all the fixings.
- The Thirsty Pig will be partaking in 207 Beer Week. Hosting events each day of the celebration including the following: Spears and Beers, Red, White, and Blue Ball Cowboys & Aliens, Git to the Point, Tek Dek Finger Off, Flannels and Flagships, Glizzies and Fizzies
- Angoor Wine Bar will be hosting an Oyster Tasting Event with Lady Oyster on Sunday, November 10th. 9 different oysters paired with 3 wine tastings.
Ongoing Events
- This October, Allagash Brewing Company is transforming into a fall wonderland for Fall Fest. The brewery is decked out in festive decorations, and beer lovers can enjoy signature fall brews like Ghoulschip, Haunted House, and house-made cider. Plus, the brewery will host a cornucopia of seasonal activities and events fit for the whole family.
- Freedom’s Edge Cider welcomes their first annual Fresh Pressed Harvest Fest happening Saturday, October 19th. Learn more.
- Papi will be hosting Bodega Cultureon Sunday, October 20th for a special Bodega After Hours: PJs + Papi Halloween pop-up that blends the coziness of your favorite pajamas with the pulse of the city’s bodega scene.
- CBG is celebrating 5 years all weekend on Friday, October 25th – Sunday, October 27th.
- The annual East Bayside Halloween Fest is set for Saturday, October 26th. Participating businesses include Rising Tide Brewing Co., Austin Street Brewery Goodfire Brewing Co., Three of Strong Spirits, Belleflower Brewing Co., Dean’s Sweats, and more!
Looking for Halloween events happening in Portland, Maine? Be sure to check out our Halloween Guide!
- Harvest on the Harbor returns Thursday, October 24th – Saturday, October 26th. Three days of food-filled fun that highlights the best of Maine’s vibrant culinary scene. Learn more.
Did we miss something? Have something exciting on the horizon for us to share? Shoot us an email at info@portlandoldport.com