In this city there’s always something going on in the culinary scene. Here’s a quick rundown of closings, openings,and news, in addition to fun happenings and upcoming foodie events.
News Update
Anything from recent closings, openings, and headliners.
- Novel is opening to the public on Wednesday, December 20th. Novel is Portland’s first Book Bar & Cafe featuring a two floor experience. The main floor hosts the bar, bookstore, and cafe, all of which mimics a mansion study where you can read, drink and eat in the ambiance of books. The lower level (still under construction) will be for music, comedy, poetry and further community gathering. Novel is located at 643 Congress Street, Portland. Here’s a first look at Novel.
- Cabana has announced that they will be closing December 31st, 2023, just a little over a year after opening in August 2022. In a statement via socal media: “Words are not enough to express how sad we feel to inform that Cabana will be closing its doors this December 31st of 2023. The reason behind our closure is due to unforeseen family health issues. As you all know family will always comes first and be our priority. Therefore, the founder and creator of Cabana, Rene has decided to step down and take over his family business and responsibilities. So, he will be passing his ownership to somebody else…” Continued on social media.
- Chocolats Passion has announced that six of their chocolates won medals at Academy of Chocolate. Yuzu Nougat took home a gold; Prickly Pear Mango, Blueberry Corn, Peppermint Flake, and Passion Fruit Vanilla all brought silver, and Lime Habanero Cashew received a bronze. AoC had a record breaking 1600+ entries this year from 55 countries and Chocolates Passion took home 6 of the 16 medals given to US Chocolatiers.
- Portland’s first board game cafe and bar, Another Round Maine will be opening at 547 Congress Street in 2024.
- Check out Nosh Taco, Portland’s newest fast-casual, California surfer-inspired restaurant and bar located at 5 Canal Plaza in the Old Port. Nosh Taco opened the first week of December.
Events, Tastings, and More
Fun for the modern day foodie!
- Portland Harbor Hotel is hosting the family-friendly event, Chowder Rules! on December 21st. Chowder lovers of all ages are invited to indulge in a delightful event packed with chowder tasting and interactive games. Come and experience the best chowder in town while enjoying a book reading by local author, Anna Crowley Redding, complimentary hot chocolate, cider, and snacks. TICKETS.
- The Continental will be running Sunday Brunch 11am -3pm. Serving Euro breakfast favorites.
- Foundation Brewing Co. is running their $25 Sunday Pizza Pack – one crispy square Detroit-style cheese pizza paired with your choice of two cans of beer (Additional toppings available at regular price), as well as, 2 Pints and a Pie Special for only $25 (available every Monday and Wednesday) for the winter season.
- 3 holiday bars you can check out in Portland, Maine.
- Check out Portland Old Port’s Christmas Food Guide: Pre-Order and Dine-in Options. Recent additions include Bread & Friends, Gross Bakery, Mami and Alto Terrace Bar + Kitchen.
- Check out Portland Old Port’s guide, Where to Dine In, Take Out or Hang Out For New Year’s Eve. Recent additions include Crispy Gai, Harbor Bistro + Terrace, Paper Tiger, and Mr. Tuna.
Did we miss something? Have something exciting on the horizon for us to share? Shoot us an email at info@portlandoldport.com