We’re excited to share with you our new series of blogs dedicated to the Greater Portland food scene, weekly updates and insights from Christopher Papagni. Christopher brings a lifetime of culinary experience and expertise to his writing and thoroughly embraces all that Portland has to offer. If you’re interested in reading about some great places to dine and insights into the awards, activities, chefs, mixologists and new openings, you’ll enjoy this blog each week.
– Maine Foodie Tours Owner/Director – Pamela Laskey
Here’s our first post for your edutainment:
Food Trucks and Wonderful Watering Holes
You are either coming to Portland to enjoy the abundance of exceptional seafood or you are already here visiting our many foodie stops. Happy hour is one of our city’s best features and greatest bargains. My favorite is DiMillo’s on the Water, an Old Port staple. DiMillo’s is a beautiful ferry boat permanently parked on the Harbor. Happy hour is Monday through Friday for 4 to 7 p.m. Sit on a heated outdoor deck and enjoy reduced priced wine, beer or mixed drinks and delicious appetizers. The fried spicy calamari for $6 is my favorite, but I wouldn’t say no to the meatballs either. And . . . free parking in their lot while you dine. Check out Liquid Riot, and Blue Spoon, for equally terrific happy hours.
Food trucks are a big deal in Portland and once you’ve tried a couple you’ll see why. One in particular, Mami, has gone bricks and mortar and we locals are as pleased as punch. The restaurant is at 339 Fore Street in Boothbay Square. Honestly, every dish will delight. The food truck that is still a food truck, but days away from losing its wheels for a permanent spot is El Corazon, off the corners of Temple and Union Streets — expect a line ‘cause it don’t get much better than this authentic Mexican specializing in fish tacos.
If it’s spirits you’re after, look no further: Rhum, one of Portland’s newest and hippest bars is underground, has the sexiest tiki cocktails in town, and it’s the place to see and be seen. If you’d prefer something a bit more subdued, with a modern aesthetic, check out Top of the East, at the Westin Hotel on High Street. The cocktails and snacks will complement the magnificent panoramic view of Portland, and they just added meal service to enjoy. Or finish a delightful day of eating and sightseeing at Blue on Congress Street, jazz every night, palate pleasing cocktails, snacks and no cover. Now that’s a city foodies can sink their teeth into. Enjoy!
Christopher Papagni, Ph.D.
Portland Phoenix Food writer,
Business Culinary Consultant