obraustin's Profile
Help! Seeking a Bruins game in the woods!
The foodie sports fan is a rare and elusive creature. Cruelly split between two seemingly contradictory forces, he does not allow himself to intermix his worlds for fear of the scorn of the members of the opposing tribes.
Cafe Mediterraneo, Portsmouth, NH
And Bella Luna recently closed its doors from what I understand. I guess I am still waiting for a great Italian restaurant in Portsmouth. I don't understand why there has always been an Italian "black hole." Perhaps I'm missing something or have not tried a solid Italian restaurant in the downtown area???
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Bella Luna
10 Market St, Portsmouth, NH 03801
Cape Cod or Maine?
I wish there were a "like" or "helpful" feature on Chowhound because I definitely like and find helpful the above commentary. Well said, MidCoast!
Decent food+beer to go with football this weekend?
I laughed so much at your comment, bobbert, that I had to chime in.
I really enjoy Nosh but I wouldn't go there to watch the Patriots this afternoon. Their food is great and their beer selection is wonderful but it's not your typical sports bar with grunting beefy guys, girls with pink Pats jerseys, and boisterous cheering, which, let's be honest, we all want a little bit on a day like today.
On the other hand, I love both Rivalries and Binga's Stadium. The food, the beer, the atmosphere, the plethora of tv's...these places have got it all.
Fiddleheads & Ramps
Anyone check their usual spots for signs of life? Curious if people have started any picking/digging yet and in what region their from. Can't wait to get some on my plate...I think I'll head out today for a minor checkup.
Any authentic German restaurants in MA/NH/Southern ME?
My sister-in-law is from Germany and when she comes to Maine she enjoys Richard's in Brunswick. Yes, it's a bit more north than Portland, but it's worth it. She says there are quite a few dishes that are as close to home-cooking as she's had in New England.
Bresca in Portland....very good indeed!
I agree 100% Coneyislandgirl...My wife and I were there a few weeks ago and we did enjoy the food (sure, small portions but not worth me griping about, well, except the fish which looked to be about a 3oz portion, maybe 4oz, maybe) but our last impression, unfortunately was not about the food, but rather the awkwardness of attempting to converse with each other. People next to us were clearly feeling awkward as well. I think you said it perfectly that the restaurant feels "cozy" (visceral reaction) but then the formality of the server(s), table settings, etc...all add up to a formal feel. That leads to very quiet and uncomfortable conversations (not unlike a conversation at a library) trying not to impede on your neighbors' discussion. She has enough talent/ability to move to a bigger location - I hope she does because we will not be back either.
Wild Blueberries in Ogunquit Maine
What about taking a hike and picking them yourself on Mt. A? (Agamenticus) That's the only place in the general area that may have wild ones for picking (if any are left). As for buying, Buffam Hill's a good suggestion, but I would think that the best chance would be to hit up the York Farmers' Market right by Stonewall Kitchen and the York Chamber of Commerce on route one at the entrance to 95 south/north in York. It starts at 9:00, and ends around 1:00. Good luck!
NYC to Maine Gastro Roadtrip
I second the motion to pass on OOB. Not "Maine" in the least. It's basically Massachusetts and Quebec territory. As for further north, what about splitting the difference and checking out Boothbay or Phippsburgh? If Phippsburgh, you're not all that far from Five Islands (my personal favorite lobster shack) and downtown Bath (Solo Bistro) or Brunswick (gelato fiasco!). If Boothbay, there are always lots of people selling whoopie pies and blueberries on the side of the road and some decent seafood downtown with some great "Maine" views. When friends/family come visit, I just can't bring myself to sell the Southern Maine coast as "Maine" to them. It just istn't. Agreed with Passadumkeg. How about a day-trip to Lubec for real Maine? Riiiiiight......
Looking for some great cannoli
I've been trying to find some better-than-average cannoli in the Portsmouth/Southern Maine/Portland area(s) lately to no-avail. It seems to be a void in my life right now, and that just needs to be fixed. I'm hoping that whatever businesses are suggested makes their own shells and fills to order (no one likes a soggy cannolo shell!), but at this point I'm open to anything; I'm just hoping to stop the necessity of driving to Modern or Mikes in the North End. Thanks!
What kind of local fish or shellfish to buy and prepare at home in the Portland area?
We buy our fish there as well and have never had anything but fresh fish. There are available parking spots as well. We just recently bought some line-caught swordfish (great for environmental/humanity's sake) that was excellent. As any chef will tell you, fresh fish needs very little (if at all) manipulation with the flavor. Nothing wrong with just a little olive oil, basil maybe, s&p on the fish. And please, eat the skin! It's the tastiest part!
First batch of tomatoes are coming in to season now; mostly cherry/sungolds. Fresh beans are also starting to infiltrate the farmer's markets alongside the ever-abundant zucchini. Check out the farmer's market in Portland (monument square, downtown) on Wednesday and then get your fish on the way home. Enjoy -
MC perkins cove
Last time I had it, I believe it was just a very nice cheddar which played second fiddle to all of buttery lobster. They may have changed it though. Their website would say I'm sure.
Taylor Ham (aka pork roll)?
I love Taylor ham as well, and was very excited when I found that the Meat House (Southern Maine locations) has started to carry it! I've probably had about 10 breakfast sandwiches with it in a week. My heart may not be too happy with me about this habit...
Ogunquit
Hurricane's is only in Kennebunkport now. That location has since turned into MC Perkins (years ago) if that is what you are referring to.
Ogunquit
That wouldn't be a problem...I worked in more than a few of those restaurants in Perkins Cove and Ogunquit years ago, and we always had families with children come in. That's the area it is, so I don't think you should feel overly concerned about bringing your child.
I agree with emilief and her comments, and would throw in two others:
* I love the Omelet Factory for breakfast on route 1 just north of the center of Ogunquit. Doesn't look like much at all. Fairly small place, but she puts up some great omelets!
* "Lobster in the Rough" just down the way in York on route 1 for a kid-friendly, "Maine-food" atmosphere. It's outside with picnic tables so make sure the weather's nice. Lot's of room for your 1 year old to run around.
Portsmouth NH
My pick would be the Black Trumpet. Excellent food with an ever-changing menu based upon local/seasonal ingredients (the chef forages for mushrooms among other things). Some very creative dishes with many influences, notably Spanish. The feel of the restaurant would fit what you're looking for - quite romantic. Great wine list as well. Get's my vote!
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Black Trumpet Bistro
29 Ceres Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801
a week in Eastport, ME -- recs?
I think any food that you could purchase at a grocery store (or cheeses) with Raye's mustard, and wine you could smuggle into a picnic basket and take up to Shackford Head State Park (a beautiful lookout along the trail with a perfect spot for a picnic) would taste as good as any other food. Of course, the same can be said about Quoddy Head...It will be the best $15 you could spend. Enjoy it!
inexpensive dinner in portland, me tonight
Too late for you now, sukisooo, but maybe someone in the future will read this post... You mentioned pasta, so my rec would definitely be Paciarino.
mexican market in Maine
La bodega latina on Congress in Portland also sells masa for tamales. Where are you located?
Maine diners/dives
Yay Camp Jordan! That tidbit of information just makes me have to add to this conversation. Fat Boy's in Brunswick...love their frappes...and you can't beat a drive-in to make greasy food seem, well, cooler.
Piccolo Abruzzo in Rome
A reservation would be a good idea. It fills up quickly, but they aren't shy at squeezing you in at another table whether there's room or not. Which, is actually quite fun and you really get to a chance to meet some great people and truly have a "family-style" dinner experience. If you don't speak italian you may have trouble keeping up with conversation at the table. We love this place. The food is great, but for us it's being able to sit down with others and talk to strangers...The endless amount of wine and spirits help as well...
Dinner in Ogunquit
Although not in Ogunquit (Earle stated Main st. in Ogt. when it's actually in Wells), I still feel the need to recommend Joshua's for my one dinner. It's always a fantastic dining experience - he has his own farm which supplies many of the seasonal vegetables. This is about a 10min. drive from downtown Ogt. as long as there is no traffic on route one...
However, walking distance in Ogunquit, I would recommend 98 Provence (quaint, romantic, French fare) or MC Perkin's Cove (views).
Ogunquit, ME and environs this weekend
"Lobster in the Rough" in York along route 1 may be worth a look for lunch or dinner with your kids if eating outside is desirable (it's not on the water). Picnic tables to eat at and open room for kids to run around. Federal Jack's in K'port is also a great option for lunch; varied menu, parking lot, on the water, and they have delicious beer to boot.
Mike's Clam Shack along route 1 in Wells is a cheap option for lunch/dinner with many fried seafood options, burgers, etc...I've always enjoyed it there. Nothing fancy at all. If you're in Ogunquit and want to eat on the water, head to Perkin's Cove for your best options. Sure, the restaurants down there can be considered "tourist traps" but they offer kid-friendly service, decent food with always fresh seafood, and they are on the water (Oarweed, Barnacle Billy's). Do not go to Jackie's for numerous reasons...
Looking for good restaurants along coast of Maine
Skip DiMillo's. Try their free happy hour buffet ($5 drink minimum) in the lounge and you can still enjoy the experience of dining on a boat. If you're looking for seafood, go to Street and Co. instead. If you're looking for Italian, my best suggestion would be Bresca. Even though it's not strictly Italian, they do great Italian offerings and it's frankly delicious.
Sarah's Cafe isn't what it used to be. I'd bypass it, as well. If you're going to be travelling that far up the coast, go to Five Islands in Georgetown and get their shore dinner, eat on the wharf, and enjoy the view of, well, the islands. (I just noticed that emilief just recommended Five Islands...so now you've got two votes for them!)
best apertivo in florence?!
Chiaroscuro on Via del Corso has been delicious every time we've been. Has had a pretty eclectic spread -- something for everyone. Slowly is also very good and they have a small number of outside seats available.
Wells, ME area
I'm surprised no one mentioned the Steakhouse right on route 1. If your father loves steak/meat it seems like that would be at least worth a look on your part. Good, standard American meat-fare for the most part. Some fish. Long lines in the summer if you don't get there early. It's also a little less expensive than Joshua's (although Joshua's is by far the best "foodie" restaurant in Wells).
Traveling through Downeast
There's also a nice little candy shop downtown Lubec with extremely nice owners. They make their chocolates and do a pretty nice job of it. Stock up on the chocolate-covered wild blueberries. I second the Family Fisheries recommendation as well.
"The White House" in Jonesboro used to have some great mud-flat pie and a decent breakfast, but have since changed over to a take-out business (last year was the switch I believe). Didn't even bother going last year, but not sure how it is. Others may be able to recommend it or not.
Bath - donuts and diners
Byrnes Irish Pub may fit the bill nicely. Right downtown. Good beer, very friendly service, and good food as well. There's also a Beal St. BBQ which is quite delicious...
Jamaican Jerk Center, Neddick ME
Just drove by there a few days ago and saw no signs of movement yet...
Off-season mid-coast ME
I actually never said that they definitely changed fresh food to frozen. I think all of us have been to a restaurant where we felt we had frozen seafood/product, right? That's just how I felt on a couple of occasions. Perhaps my untrained palette was incorrect, or perhaps it was correct. I do not know for sure, nor have I purported to know for fact as you have implied (Harp00n). My experience is just that: my experience. I do feel as though the quality of the food has changed, thus, I have not returned. No ill will. No hard feelings. It's just not what it was to me previously (I would go there very often - any reason for celebration means Sea Basket time). The batter seems to be more noticeable to me. I always felt that previously, the batter did not impede the fresh-fish taste. I obviously felt different last year. The scallops were just not how I remembered them. And the lobster stew did not seem as incredible as before. Maybe I was on the look-out for something new and set myself up for disappointment. Who knows. I certainly could be wrong...
Your bottom line is yours, Harp. Mine may be different. If you and others still enjoy it, fantastic. I personally have chosen to patronize another location for my fried seafood fix. I appreciate the way you presented your views and asked questions, Science Chick. It seemed to come from the "we all have different experiences" paradigm, rather than the confrontational one. That dialogue really makes chowhound threads a fantastic discourse :-) Maybe I'll have to give it another try (although I'm not admitting defeat just yet).
