Nov 15
Posted by Jeff Mateja in Food, Nightlife, Restaurants | No Comments
Pat’s Pizza in Portland’s Old Port has been open just over 6 months now (opened April 26, 2010) at 30 Market Street, Portland, and we recently had a chance to catch up with the owner and to take a closer look inside and learn more about the business. Here’s a YouTube video created by the talented Ogden Media of Portland, Maine.
Check out our previous post Pat’s Pizza has a New Home in Portland’s Old Port, a review of the restaurant in August 2010.
Dec 28
Posted by Jeff Mateja in Bar, Food, Fun, Restaurants | No Comments
Visit Rosie’s at 330 Fore Street, Portland, and you can count on a great burger (served after 10pm too), a laid back atmosphere, and of course darts! In May 2007, Esquire Magazine even gave props to Rosie’s by honoring it as one of America’s Best Bars.
Below, Doug McIntire, winner of our “Portland in 48 Hours Contest”, provides his vivid description of Rosie’s;
With the crowded sidewalks and corner shops beckoning the passerby from all angles, the Old Port can become at once, wonderful and daunting. The smell of various eateries blend with the pungent salt spray from Commercial Street, tantalizing the visitor and making the most staunch dieter throw caution to the shore breeze. Where does one go, however, when an undefined hunger tears at shop weary soul and the mix of company you happened to keep cannot decide on any one venue?
Just walk a block up past the Customs House and down the cobble stones of Fore Street to Rosie’s. This unassuming; some may dare say, quaint restaurant and pub is famous for serving up some of the best fare in town. Whether your crew is craving fish and chips, sandwiches, a full pint, or even more exotic fare such as local sea food, no one will be disappointed. Even the vegetarian among you will find Rosie’s a haven of taste. That said, let’s talk about the burgers. Whether its bacon and bleu cheese burger, barbecue, or one of their signature burgers like the Fore Street, Rosie’s burgers are big, fresh, and cooked to order. Top that off with a pint and a game of darts, and your Old Port meal is complete.
Rosie’s has everything a person needs for calming the Old Port hunger pangs. Their staff is friendly and the atmosphere relaxed. Hey, there’s even free popcorn you can get yourself while you wait for your food. Enjoy your meal, then head back out to shop, sit by the bay, or just people watch.
You can read more of Doug McIntire’s work on his blog at cdmcintire.wordpress.com
Dec 26
Posted by Jeff Mateja in Food, Restaurants | No Comments
Add another restaurant to the Old Port, as the former site of O’Naturals Portland will soon be occupied again as a new restaurant, Sonny’s, graces the 83 Exchange Street location. Named for the owner, Jay Villani’s son, Sonny’s menu will feature Tex-Mex and South American dishes.
Sonny’s plans to open on Friday, January 8, and I wish them great success. One would imagine they will do just fine with Walter’s having moved from Exchange Street to Portland Square, and the fact Villani already has done well and established a following with his current restaurant, Local 188. Perhaps we will see some Mediterranean influence from Local 188 at Sonny’s.
Dec 23
Posted by Jeff Mateja in Uncategorized | No Comments
Doug McIntire, a freelance writer from Auburn, Maine is the winner of the “Portland in 48 Hours Contest”, where we asked you what you would do in Portland, Maine, if you only had 48 hours. There were some interesting and clever entries, and here you go with our winner;
My 48 hours in Portland would begin at Deering Oaks Park. There, I would walk among the trees; feeling the crunch of the leaves as they announce my every step. I would bring bread to feed the ducks in the pond; making sure the squawking seagulls get no more than their fare share for time spent at sea. I would wander the perimeter, taking time to glance at the chinks in the asphalt armor of the surrounding streets, revealing glimpses of the cobblestone history below.
From there I would walk to the Old Port, taking time to survey the architecture; both old and new. Here, a nearly forgotten home that had survived the great fire, now tucked between towering buildings. There, a row of shops with Deco designs; frozen in time but still at home in it’s new surroundings.
Once in the Old Port, I would allow the sights, sounds, and smells to flow through my being. I would walk down Commercial Street; smelling the Casco Bay and bathing in that cool comfort only the sea can provide. Couples would walk by in a brisk embrace; joggers, bikers, and dog walkers alike; all with a destination. Pausing by the waterfront, I would take in the beautiful antiquity of the windjammer, Baghera while lobstermen carry on the work of generations before.
Diverting from the waterfront, I would ascent to Brian Boru; it’s red walls commanding from it’s perch above Commercial. Once inside, the dark beams and low ceilings invite the traveler deeper toward the back where Irish music is lilting from tables where musicians gather every week. Pints are cleared, children sit, entranced, and locals relax with the paper as if this is simply an every day occurrence, because for them, it is.
And there, there between my first and third pint is where I would decide. My first 48 hours in Portland is when I would begin my life anew.
According to a Portland Press Herald article, a major fire in Portland’s Old Port was avoided due to the persistence of the Portland Fire Department to force a landlord to install an update sprinkler system.
Earlier in the year, you may recall tenants were removed from the building and thankfully can count their blessings today that they found somewhere else to live.
Dec 12
Posted by Jeff Mateja in Bar, Events, Fun, Nightlife | No Comments
Join the CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) for the 1st Annual Naughty and Nice Xmas Caroling on Wednesday, December 16, beginning at 6:30pm at North Star Cafe, 225 Congress Street, where everyone will warm up a bit before heading out for some caroling in the East End beginning at 7pm.
Even if caroling is not quite your thing, you’ll enjoy meeting new friends, as the crew continues into the naughty part of the evening with the beginning of a Jolly Ol’ Old Port Pub Crawl starting at The Snug at 8pm. Now we’re talking…In looking at the planned Pub Crawl Route, it appears the night will continue on strong with visits to RiRa, Gritty McDuff’s, and Bull Feeney’s before a final night cap at Rosie’s.
Bring yourself, friends, family, and feel free to dress in a festive holiday spirit. The more, the merrier…Have fun and be safe!
Nov 14
Posted by Jeff Mateja in Entertainment, Events, Fun, Nightlife | No Comments
For some the Holidays come a little sooner each year, as is the case for 2nd Annual SantaCon 2009, hitting the Empire Dine and Dance on Saturday, December 5, beginning at 4pm.
In case you missed last years inaugural event in Portland, SantaCon involves those with extra holiday spirit dressing up as Santa Clause or other Christmas/Holiday related characters, gathering for a fun time of drinks and dancing, and spreading holiday cheer throughout the Old Port.
As this is a worldwide event, similar groups gather all over the world with the largest gathering in New York City, with each creating their own event and idea of boosting others spirits, or consuming a few additional spirits to stay warm. Sounds like a blast, and I am sure you will have fun. Now go find a suit and join the delightful crew for an evening in Portland.
Additional details on the event…
SantaCon is a not-for-profit, non-political, non-religious & non-logical Santa Claus convention. It’s an international event with cities throughout the world hosting their own unique version of the celebration. The largest of the Santacons takes place in NYC, which had close to 2,000 Santas attend in 2008. Check out the links below for more info, a more detailed history and dates for other SantaCons across the country/world.
santarchy.com
www.santacon.com
nycsantacon.com
SantaCon 2009 – Portland Press Herald
Portland SantaCon Facebook Page
Who’s in charge?
SANTA.
SANTA’S RULES:
* Santa looks like Santa. Holiday apparel is mandatory. A Santa hat is not enough. Get a Santa suit. Buy a Santa suit. Make a Santa suit. Steal a Santa suit. Get creative: be a Secret Santa, a Santasaurus, Candy-cane, a Reindeer, a Chanukah Chicken, a latke. Just don’t wear your jeans.
* Santa acts like Santa. Be jolly. Belly-laugh. Let people sit on your lap. Give out gifts.
* Santa doesn’t get arrested:
* Don’t mess with kids. Don’t mess with cops. Don’t mess with security. Don’t mess with Santa.
SANTA’S GUIDELINES:
It’s a long day, so be prepared. Here’s some tips to keep your sleigh running all day.
* Eat something & pace yourself. Only Santa is responsible for Santa’s ability to stay vertical.
* Dress warm. It’s the northeast. It’s winter. Wear layers so you’ll be comfortable anywhere.
* Stay with the group. Go with friends and call one of them if you wander off. Try not to wander off, though.
* Stay hydrated
* Don’t be “that” Santa. Your friends want to have fun, not have to take care of you.
* Pay your own tab. Tip well for putting up with us.
* Santa does not make children cry (unless they whine, snivel, or otherwise deserve it). Really – If you see kids, give them nice toys, candy, or something pleasant. Tourists fall somewhere in between the two — adjust depending on their attitude.
Jun 11
Posted by iloveportlandmaine in History, Uncategorized | 1 Comment
One favorite thing that comes to my mind about Portland is the cobblestone streets. Of the few cobblestone streets not paved over in old port there is an “Old World” charm you might notice as you drive over them. It is best to get out of the car and explore the area because there is history not only under one’s feet but all around. It helps remind me to look around and appreciate not rushing life.
Contributed by reader:
Kevin J. Chisholm, Guardian Life Insurance Co., 65 West Commercial Street, Portland, ME 04101
Phone: (207) 228-7070 Cell: (207) 776-5556 Email: kevin_chisholm@glic.com
Jun 1
Posted by iloveportlandmaine in Art, Entertainment, Events, Fun, Music | 2 Comments
Sunday, June 7th, marks the 36th Annual Old Port Festival in Portland, Maine, and what a way to celebrate and welcome Summer to Portland than music, art, entertainment, and more. Something for all ages and a wonderful time rain or shine. The City of Portland in conjunction with many area businesses, have coordinated a number of sites and stages for different local and national musical acts to entertain the crowd, while they check out crafts from local artists and shop the wonderful stores of The Old Port. The streets will surely be filled from Congress St. to Commercial Street, between Temple/Union St. and Pearl St. for another awesome festival. There will be plenty of food and outdoor activities for all to enjoy!
Thriving Ivory, Elliot Yamin (finalist on previous American Idol), Dar Williams, Pete Kilpatrick, and Kelly Parker are just some of the many entertainers to perform across a number of different stages. There are performances and events for kids too. Here is a Google Map with clickable links to give you an idea of the schedule of events at each area and stage of the 36th Annual Old Port Festival : http://tinyurl.com/orly5a
Don’t miss out. Sunday, June 7th, from 11am – 5pm Downtown Portland, and the crowds will surely spill over into the restaurants and bars for further entertainment well into the evening. Enjoy and be safe!
Certainly thank your generous sponsors for this wonderful event as well like; The City of Portland, WJBQ Q97.9, WPOR 101.9, WCLZ 98.9, Sebago Brewing Company, Raising Maine.com, Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine, Maine State Lottery, Fox23, MaineToday.com, The Portland Phoenix, Maine Academy of Modern Music, Bull Feeney’s, MPBN, and Bull Moose Music. Thank You!
An amazing piece of Portland, Maine, known for everything from elegant dining to trendy boutique shopping to wonderful entertainment, makes the Old Port great for everyone, young and old. You can always count on exciting nightlife often filled with many great performances by musicians in local establishments. If it’s food you’re looking for you can appreciate a fresh seafood dinner, sushi, brick oven pizza, or fine dining from the many restaurants that blanket Exchange St, Fore St, Wharf St, or Commercial St. Connected to the Old Port and adding to the character of cobblestone streets, is the working waterfront on Commercial St. which lends to the crisp smell of the ocean.
