SPORTS + RECREATION
PRO KITEBOARDER BRIANA ATTALLA ON MAINE'S EMERGING SCENE
TRAVEL
VACATION PLANNING WITH AAA NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND
ARTS + CULTURE
OPERA HOUSE ARTS CELEBRATES 25 YEARS IN STONINGTON
Eat, Play, Explore, Repeat
At Portland City Lifestyl e, we have little tolerance for boredom. Staying busy with everything our city has to offer is why we choose to live here, after all. Never a dull moment, or day, when we're scratching off all the things on our summer-inMaine bucket lists.
And then there's the food. This endeavor alone could be a full-time job, and what a job it would be. For this year's Explore issue, we're helping you "eat around the world" without even leaving the peninsula. Turn to page 34 for our picks for some of the best international cuisine in town, and check them all off your list this summer.
Once you're properly fueled up, you can use that energy to finally explore that new hobby you've been meaning to try. Our editor Becca sat down with pro kiteboarder Briana Attalla (page 22) to hear about why she loves the sport so much, and some tips for trying it out right here in Maine.
If you have any energy left after getting out on the water, you could use it to keep exploring inside or outside city limits. Feeling adventurous? Why not hop in the car and take a road trip to Stonington, where Opera House Arts (featured on page 28 ) is celebrating its 25th anniversary, or take the advice from our friends at AAA of Northern New England (page 20) to dream up your own perfect summer flyaway?
Whatever you do, just don’t let this summer slip by. Whether you're seeking out the perfect bite, getting the adrenaline pumping, or planning your next great escape, there's no shortage of ways to fill your days—and your soul—right here in Maine.
EMILY HARRADON, PUBLISHER @PORTLAND.CITYLIFESTYLE
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Emily Harradon | emily.harradon@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Rebecca Abramson
rebecca.abramson@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Meghan Morrison | meghan.morrison@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Deborah Roberts
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bon Vivants Creative, Brian Burke, Deborah Roberts
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Fully Licensed Mobile Bar and Food Catering Plus a New Downtown Event Venue
Experience unforgettable lobster bakes, professional catering, mobile bar services, our new venue space, and so much more.
Taste the best of Maine with our fresh locally sourced lobster and seafood catering. Authentic coastal flavor in beautifully handcrafted courses, bringing authentic flavors to your special event.
Elevate your event with premium mobile bar catering in Portland, Maine - craft cocktails, expert bartenders and stylish service that impresses.
Join us at The Downtown Social for 80’s night every Thursday with a DJ from 6-9p.m. Our chef prepares favorite foods from the decade.
Mondays are Latin Night featuring a Latin-inspired menu. Enjoy salsa classes from 6-7p.m. and a DJ from 7-9p.m.
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Inspiration
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN
1: Briana Betts from Seed and Spirits at Salud’s grand opening. 2: Partners and friends of Portland City Lifestyle enjoy a tasting at Old Port Wine Merchants. 3: Heather Mayer (Portside Real Estate) and Katie Zoe (Atrium Group) at Angoor Wine Bar. 4: Cali Dale from Bubbly and Bites (@bubbly_and_bites) at Rosemont’s 20 year anniversary event. 5: Elaine Brassard, Sandy Bechard, and Kim Magid at GPY’s 15th anniversary celebration at Belleflower Brewing. 6: The Boston Typewriter Orchestra at the Press Hotel’s 10th anniversary celebration. 7: Sisters and co-owners Nikoline and Signe Ostergaard at Sødt’s soft opening.
business monthly
A ROUNDUP OF
Bliss Moves & Baske Debuts in Portland’s Old Port
Angela and John Foddrill, founders of Portland’s beloved boutiques Bliss and Little, have announced two major updates: the launch of their new home brand, Baske, and the relocation of their flagship Bliss store. Baske, opening at 42 Exchange Street, will offer curated homewares inspired by Maine’s coastal lifestyle. Bliss moved to a larger space at 119 Middle Street in May, enhancing its shopping experience while continuing to deliver premium, lasting style.
Soma Metalwork Moves to Portland with New Studio and Forge
Kiran Chapman, founder of Soma Metalwork, has leased the former brewery space at 1 Industrial Way in Portland to expand his blacksmithing studio. Moving from Skyline Farm in North Yarmouth, the new space will support both production and public classes in blacksmithing and knifemaking. Chapman plans to maintain the building’s industrial character while creating a welcoming, functional workspace. Class offerings and updates will be shared via Soma Metalwork’s website and Instagram.
Photography by Soma Metalwork
Creative Reuse Center Finds New Home at Stockhouse Station
Past + Future Craft Exchange, a creative reuse center for textile craft supplies, has leased space in Westbrook’s Stockhouse Station. The move from Dana Warp Mill provides a larger, street-level space with ample off-street parking, extended hours, and a dedicated classroom for workshops and events. Owner Jo Bell says the expansion supports increased community offerings and inventory, especially timely with Joann Fabrics closing.
Photography courtesy of Past + Future Craft Exchange
Photography courtesy of Bliss
Campaign Design & Collateral
Packaging Design & Sourcing
Advertising Design (Brochures, Flyer's, etc.)
Social Media
Management & Content Creation
Illustration & Graphics
Murals
Vehicle & Food Truck (Wrap Design)
Empower Your Family’s Health with Tree of Life Chiropractic’s Workshops
Tree of Life Chiropractic’s workshops empower families with natural, neurologically-based solutions. Whether you’re navigating sensory and behavioral challenges, preparing for birth, or seeking drug-free ways to boost your child’s immune health, Drs. Conor and Victoria Campbell are here to guide you. Join them for The Perfect Storm, Birth & Beyond, and Raising Healthy Kids Naturally to discover how to support your family’s wellness from the inside out. To learn more or save your seat, visit treeoflifechiros.com/ workshops-events
Photography courtesy of Tree of Life Chiropractic
New Restaurant Concept from Yosaku Owners
Yosaku owners Rattanak Tray and Hope MacVane-Tray are expanding to South Portland, having purchased the former Elsmere BBQ building. Their new, yet-to-be-named restaurant will feature a sushi menu akin to Yosaku’s, complemented by small plates and grilled Japanese dishes with a seasonal focus. Renovations are in progress and the team is aiming for a spring 2026 opening.
Portland’s First Integrated Dog Park and Restaurant
Woof. Play. Eat., opening soon in Portland’s North Deering neighborhood, is a unique indoor dog park, daycare, and casual eatery designed for dogs and their humans. The 15,000-square-foot space will feature off-leash and on-leash areas, a full-service restaurant and bar, and enrichment and daycare programs. Owners Brad and Marissa Sterl aim to create a welcoming, all-weather destination for dog lovers.
the CITY LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Local Adventure
Summer Sunsets Live at Thompson's Point www.thompsonspoint.com/summersunsetslive
Mailboat Run on Casco Bay Lines www.cascobaylines.com/maine-boat-tours/specialty-cruises/mailboat
Let's Roam Scavenger Hunt www.letsroam.com/tours_and_adventures/Portland_Maine
Farm to Table Dinner at the Well at Jordan's Farm www.thewellatjordansfarm.com
Lights and Sights E-Bike Tour summerfeet.net/tour/portland-maine-lights-and-sights-e-bike-tour
Weekend Getaway Hotels
Loon Lodge www.loonlodgeme.com | 207.864.5666
The Trellis House www.trellishouse.com | 207.646.7909
Samoset Resort www.opalcollection.com/samoset | 207.594.2511
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Terramor terramoroutdoorresort.com | 207.288.7500
Inn at Diamond Cove www.innatdiamondcove.com | 207.805.9836
PICNIC PERFECT
MAINELY EXPERIENCES TURNS EVERYDAY SETTINGS INTO EXTRAORDINARY CELEBRATIONS
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DEBORAH
ROBERTS
Imagine lounging on a blanket under the Maine sky, surrounded by wildflowers or the calming sound of waves, while indulging in a beautifully styled picnic featuring gourmet bites from one of the area’s beloved local restaurants. This is the essence of Mainely Experiences, luxury pop-up picnics curated by Deborah Roberts and thoughtfully designed to celebrate life’s most memorable moments in unforgettable settings.
From intimate date nights to milestone celebrations of up to 20 guests, these picnic experiences are anything but ordinary. Each one is customized to reflect the personality, preferences, and purpose of the gathering—whether it’s a romantic proposal, a special birthday, a girls’ getaway, or a family reunion. For a more playful twist, Mainely Experiences also offers "Family Game Night on the Beach" with oversized lawn games like giant Jenga and cornhole, along with sweet and savory snacks for all ages. Looking for something more serene? The "Twilight Stargazing Picnic" invites guests to unwind beneath a blanket of stars, complete with cozy lighting and plush pillows.
Location is part of the magic. Guests can choose from a picturesque beach, a flower-filled pasture, a quiet riverside nook, or even their own backyard. Favorite locations include the scenic Eastern Promenade in Portland, Kennebunkport’s hidden coastal bluffs, and other serene corners across southern Maine and beyond. Every site is styled with eye-catching décor, soft textiles, and elegant place settings. It’s where rustic charm meets effortless luxury.
Food is another hallmark of the experience. Roberts partners with a variety of Maine restaurants, bakers, and food artisans to craft a menu that reflects your tastes, whether that’s fresh lobster rolls, charcuterie boards, artisan pastries, or handcrafted non-alcoholic spritzers. Guests are welcome to select items from their favorite local spots, allowing each picnic to feel personal and authentically Maine.
Above all, Mainely Experiences is about connection—with loved ones, with nature, and with the unique spirit of Maine.
Above all, Mainely Experiences is about connection—with loved ones, with nature, and with the unique spirit of Maine. Roberts handles all the logistics and design details, allowing guests to simply show up and savor the moment.
Whether you’re celebrating something big or just want to slow down and enjoy something beautiful, a Mainely Experiences picnic offers a meaningful and memorable way to do it.
FROM DREAM TO DEPARTURE
ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON
EXPERT GUIDANCE, MEMBER-ONLY SAVINGS, AND DEDICATED SUPPORT MAKE AAA TRAVEL ADVISORS A MUST FOR ANY TRAVELER
Planning a vacation can be exhilarating, but also overwhelming. Between booking flights, comparing hotels, and navigating ever-changing travel regulations, it’s easy to feel lost in the details. We spoke with Jennifer Wakefield, manager of Travel Products and Services at AAA Northern New England, to learn how the organization’s seasoned travel advisors can transform your trip from a to-do list into a dream getaway.
EXCLUSIVE MEMBER BENEFITS AND SAVINGS
PERSONALIZED PLANNING WITH EXPERT INSIGHT
AAA Travel Advisors take the time to understand your travel goals, preferences, and budget. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo journey, they craft customized itineraries tailored to your needs. Their firsthand experience and up-to-date knowledge of destinations ensure that your trip is both memorable and seamless.
You do not need to be an AAA member to use AAA travel, although AAA members enjoy access to exclusive deals and discounts that aren’t available to non-members. From extra savings to shipboard credits, these perks can add significant value to your vacation and oftentimes pay for the cost of an annual membership.
BONUS: In addition to travel agency services and legendary roadside assistance, AAA members can take advantage of discounted passport photos, international driving permits, and savings on auto and homeowners’ insurance.
SUPPORT BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER YOUR TRIP
STRESS-FREE TRAVEL PLANNING
Coordinating travel logistics can be time-consuming and stressful. AAA Travel Advisors handle all the details—from booking flights and accommodations to arranging tours and transfers—so you can focus on enjoying your trip. The advisors’ expertise and dedication to quality, personalized service ensures that every aspect of your vacation is well-organized and hassle-free.
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Unexpected issues can arise during travel, including flight cancellations or sudden itinerary changes. AAA Travel Advisors act as your advocate, providing support and solutions to keep your trip on track. For peace of mind, AAA advisors can provide a variety of worry-free travel insurance options that offer 24/7 concierge services while you are traveling as well as help protect your investment.
PRO KITEBOARDER BRIANA ATTALLA FINDS UNEXPECTED COMMUNITY AND CALM ON THE RUGGED COAST OF HER ANCESTRAL HOME
Wind Chaser
ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON
Photo: Brian Burke
Photo: Brian Burke
When Briana Attalla moved from Maui to Maine, she didn’t expect to find herself kiteboarding again, let alone falling for a local kiting community that rivals some of the sport’s most iconic global destinations. “I thought I was just here for school,” she laughs. “But being on the water here definitely made me feel more connected to the elements. It was this unexpected way back to myself.”
Attalla, now 32, has spent the last eight years carving out a unique place in the world of kiteboarding. She got her start at 24, when a friend introduced her to the sport in St. Petersburg, Florida. “I got hooked pretty fast,” she says. “I started chasing the wind and spending summers in Hood River, Oregon, which is kind of like the mecca of kiteboarding in the U.S.”
She quickly found herself immersed in the sport not just as a rider, but as a teacher and mentor. A few years in, she took a job with World Class Academy, a college-prep school for young, elite kiteboarders. “It was like a ski academy, but for kiteboarding,” Attalla says. “We traveled around the world—to Greece, Brazil, South Africa, Egypt—just chasing the best wind and waves.”
CONTINUED >
Her globetrotting lifestyle eventually led to sponsorships, though not in the way many athletes earn them. “It wasn’t about my social media presence,” she says. “It was about connections: teaching, working in shops, being part of the community.”
After three years on the road, Attalla craved something more grounded. A teaching job in Maui gave her that balance, but it was the devastating 2023 wildfires that reshaped her priorities. “I started thinking more deeply about the social-emotional needs of kids, especially in communities that have experienced trauma,” she says.
That brought her to Maine, where she’s now pursuing a graduate degree in mental health counseling at USM. Her roots here run deeper than the ocean: Attalla’s extended family is part of the Passamaquoddy tribe, and she’s directing her studies toward supporting Indigenous youth. “It feels pretty full circle,” she says. “Being here, where my family is from, and shaping my education to give back to that community—it’s powerful.”
Courtesy of Briana Attalla
Photo: Brian Burke
Photo: Brian Burke
What she didn’t expect was to find a kiteboarding scene that would rival her previous adventures. “My first week here, I met someone at Ferry Beach who added me to a group chat,” she says. “It turns out there are over 100 active kiters in Maine. I was shocked. They're probably the most enthusiastic kiteboarders I’ve ever met, and I’ve been to world-class spots.”
The Maine scene, it turns out, has a unique kind of grit. “They go out in barely any wind, in marginal conditions,” Attalla says. “It’s not about perfect weather, it’s about the love of the sport. It’s actually been really inspiring for me. I’ve been a bit of a wind diva in the past, spoiled by great conditions, but these folks just get after it. It’s contagious.”
There are staple spots—Pine Point in Scarborough is a favorite—but much of Maine’s coastline remains untapped. “You can go through the marshes, find your own pocket, and get lost in it,” she says. “It’s a chooseyour-own-adventure kind of place.”
Kiteboarding here may not have the consistency of other destinations, but when it’s on, Attalla says, it’s magical. “A few weeks ago, I had a dream session,” she says. “It’s rare, but that makes it even sweeter. If you’re patient and willing to adapt, Maine delivers.”
That adaptability includes embracing newer technologies like foil boards, which allow riders to lift above the water and ride in lighter winds. “If I’m on a traditional twin-tip board, I need at least 15 knots,” she says. “But if I’m foiling, I can go in 10, maybe even less. It’s opened up a whole new way to explore.”
As the community grows, so does the need for awareness around safety. “This sport is not something to learn on your own,” Attalla warns. “Lessons are crucial. Kite control is everything, and it can be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing.” She points to a local store, Afloat, for wing lessons, and highlights the role of a community leader who helps coordinate sessions, offers wind and weather forecasts, and mentors new riders. “He really embodies inclusivity, and he just tries to spread the stoke. I feel very grateful for the role he plays in the community.”
As a woman in a male-dominated sport, Attalla is used to being underestimated,
and just as used to proving people wrong. “There are so many times I’ve pulled up to a beach and guys assume I don’t know what I’m doing,” she says. “And then I throw a front roll over them.” She laughs, but it’s clear that pushing boundaries is part of what drives her. “Finding my own role within this sport has been empowering,” she says.
Whether it’s encouraging women to kite or finding strength in wind and waves, Attalla’s path is one of connection across cultures, coasts, and communities. Kiteboarding in Maine may not have been part of the plan, but for Attalla, that’s what makes it feel exactly right.
Courtesy of Briana Attalla
Photo: Brian Burke
CENTER STAGE in Stonington
Opera House Arts marks 25 years of creativity and connection
ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON
This Verse Business (Photo: Alicia Allen Photography)
Photo: Courtesy of Opera House Arts
It’s not every day you find live theater on a working waterfront. But in the coastal town of Stonington, Maine, the historic opera house overlooking the harbor isn’t just a backdrop—it’s the beating heart of the community. This year, Opera House Arts (OHA), the nonprofit organization that operates out of the historic Stonington Opera House, is celebrating 25 years of performances, programs, and gathering.
Originally constructed in 1886 as a music and dance hall, the Opera House burned down and was rebuilt in 1912. The theater’s true revival began in 1999, when four visionaries found the building nearly abandoned and in disrepair. “They purchased it, reconstructed the roof, shored up the building,” says Jessica Shively, OHA’s communications and development associate. “That’s when they established Opera House Arts as a nonprofit, to restore the structure to its original purpose as a community institution.”
That sense of place and purpose continues to define Opera House Arts today. “We’re more than just a theater,” Shively says. “We have mainstage performances, music, and programs geared toward intergenerational audiences. We also run trivia events, open mic nights, and other events to bring the community together to celebrate.”
For this milestone anniversary season, OHA is leaning into its past, celebrating its present, and planning for the future. On stage, this summer’s lineup includes both a return to Shakespeare (a tradition at OHA) and a look at contemporary storytelling. “Our first mainstage production is A Midsummer Night’s Dream ,” Shively says. “We’re also doing Rooted , a contemporary play, so we’re really celebrating the future while honoring the roots of our programming.” Music lovers will find a highlight in the 25th annual Deer Isle Jazz Festival, headlined this year by Grammy Award–winning artist Quentin Baxter. “We’re quite excited about that,” Jessica adds.
Also returning this year is OHA’s beloved Live for $5 series of low-cost, early-evening performances designed with families in mind. “It’s specifically targeted at intergenerational audiences,” Shively notes. “We’ve scheduled them at 6:00 PM on Tuesdays so that families with young kids who want to come can be home before bedtime.” The series includes a variety of acts from juggling and CONTINUED >
Photo: Alicia Allen Photography
Quentin Baxter
(Photo: Reese Moore Photography)
circus performances to musical guests. “We’re trying to make sure that cost isn’t a barrier,” Shively says. “The ticket price for everyone is just five dollars, so you can bring the whole family.”
Opera House Arts remains committed to accessibility in other ways, too. “We instituted a pay-what-you-can night for our theater productions,” Shively says. “We just want to make sure the space remains open, inviting, and exciting with something for everyone.” That might mean a dramatic play one night and a comedic film the next. “If you're not interested in theater, you can come to a blockbuster movie instead,” she notes. “We’re offering options that everyone can enjoy.”
Beyond attending performances, OHA invites the community to get involved in other ways. “We're always looking for volunteers, and we're a nonprofit, so any donation of any amount helps. The cost of a ticket only covers about 15% of our operating costs,” she adds.
Shively easily recalls stories from the community: people who had their first job at the Opera House, went on their first date there, or saw their first play on its stage. “There’s one young person who came to see Cyrano, one of our mainstage productions last year, and it brought her to tears,” she says. “She was just in absolute awe and joy. That’s what we hope for: that a first experience with live theater becomes something you carry with you.”
That legacy of impact is part of what drives OHA to look ahead with care. A recent capital needs assessment made clear that the century-old building requires continued maintenance.
OHA SUMMER 2025 HIGHLIGHTS
• July 12-13: Matinicus by Jenny Connell Davis in partnership with the Penobscot Theatre Company
• July 18-19: 25th Annual Deer Isle Jazz Festival
• July 22: Frogtown Mountain Puppeteers’ Everybody Loves Pirates (Live for $5)
• August 7-17: Rooted by Deborah Zoe Laufer / directed by Joan Jubett
Cyrano (Photo: Alicia Allen Photography)
25th anniversary merch
(Courtesy of Opera House Arts)
2024 Jazz Festival
(Photo: Alicia Allen Photography)
For this milestone 25th anniversary season, Opera House Arts is leaning into its past, celebrating its present, and planning for the future.
Fortunately, the state of Maine passed a $10 million bond dedicated to preserving structures on the National Register of Historic Places. The Stonington Opera House is eligible to apply for this support. “We’re grateful the state is recognizing the importance of our cultural history,” Shively says. “We want to remain good stewards of this building. It’s a great time to reflect on how we keep these spaces vibrant for the next 25 years—not just for us, but for future generations to enjoy.”
Looking ahead, the organization’s mission remains steady: creativity rooted in community. “We want to continue to be a community gathering space,” Shively says, “to offer something for everyone, to keep productions accessible and relevant, and to stay connected to the people around us.”
That focus, Shively believes, is what has helped Opera House Arts thrive—not just as a regional arts organization, but as part of the national conversation about the value of culture. “We’re keeping our focus on our support of the community,” she says. “That has spoken volumes for our success, and it keeps us grounded.”
In a time when so many rural theaters have gone dark, the Stonington Opera House still glows at the west end of Main Street. It’s a place where art, conversation, laughter, and story continue to bring people together. That, in itself, is worth celebrating.
Cyrano (Photo: Alicia Allen Photography)
dokmalimaine.com | 207-536-7119 | 47 India Street, Portland, ME Your go-to spot for the mouth-watering foods of Thailand’s bustling night markets. The excitement and captivating tastes of Thai street food influenced by Laotian ingredients in a unique, convivial, sit-down dining atmosphere is now available in the Old Port.
Nonglack Thanephonesy Owner & Head Chef
Passport to Flavor
Eight global restaurants that prove Portland is an international dining destination
ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON
Oga Suya
41 Fox St. Jing
A hidden gem serving the bold, smoky flavors of Nigeria. Their namesake suya—thinly sliced meat grilled over fire with a peanut spice rub— is a must. Pair it with fragrant jollof rice and a fried plantain for a feast as flavorful as it is comforting. Catch their pop-ups at the Portland Zoo Tuesday and Thursday through Sunday.
Yan
90 Congress St.
Named after the swallow native to Beijing, this stylish neighborhood spot in the East End draws on Chinese, Korean, and other pan-Asian influences to create a rotating, seasonal menu full of surprises. One night might bring seaweed pesto burrata and Chinese numbing wings while another may bring creamy chili noodles and duck ramen. Don’t skip the handcrafted cocktails, including the Eastern Promenade and the Sichuan peppercorn-infused Hot Pot.
Courtesy of Ogu Suya
Courtesy of Jing Yan
Portland’s food scene has long punched above its weight, earning accolades from coast to coast. But beyond the craft cocktails and new American bistros is a deeper story told through simmering broths, firekissed flatbreads, and spice blends passed down through generations. The city is home to chefs and families who bring their culinary traditions from across the world, offering locals a way to travel by taste.
This isn’t your typical passport tour: it’s a celebration of both heritage and reinvention. From a Nigerian barbeque pop-up to a lively Puerto Rican restaurant where every detail celebrates island culture, Portland is rich with stories of diaspora, migration, and the flavors that tether us to home.
If you’re feeling stuck in your dining routine, take this as your invitation to explore. Here are eight international restaurants that will transport you far beyond the peninsula, no flights required.
Asmara
51 Oak St.
For nearly 20 years, Asmara has introduced Portlanders to the rich flavors of Eritrean and Ethiopian cuisine. Meals are served on a spongy, fermented flatbread called injera that’s meant to be shared. The vegetarian sampler is great for small groups and offers a taste of all Asmara’s vegetarian dishes, from spicy potatoes to stewed lentils.
ASMARAMAINE.COM | @ASMARAMAINE
From the team that brought you Cong Tu Bot, this Khmer American cafe in Bayside offers a menu that’s as heartfelt as it is inventive. Try their hot lemon chicken, bao breakfast sandwich, or the griddle-fried dry noodles with sweet soy curry or braised beef. Recently named to Esquire magazine’s list of the Best New Restaurants of 2024, Oun Lido’s is a delicious homage to Cambodian comfort food and family legacy.
Ting
28 Monument Square
Located in the Public Market House, Yardie Ting is a no-frills spot dishing up big Caribbean flavors. The jerk chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender with just the right amount of heat. Curry goat, oxtails, and Jamaican patties round out the offerings, all served with a smile. Grab a Ting soda and soak up the good vibes.
| @YARDIETING
An ode to Puerto Rico in the heart of the Old Port, Papi is where vibrant hospitality meets island-inspired cuisine. Think crispy empanadas, slow roasted pork shoulder, and guava-spiked cocktails. The space feels like a party with glowing lights, Latin beats, and joyful energy. Come hungry, stay late.
| @PAPIPORTLAND
Courtesy of Papi
Quanto Basta
249 Congress St.
This food truck turned Italian kitchen specializes in pizza Napoletana: wood-fired, thin-crust pies with a perfectly blistered edge and tender center. Toppings highlight quality ingredients from local farms, from garlicky bitter greens and arugula to house-made fennel sausage. The vibe is cozy and unfussy, making it an ideal stop for a slice of Naples right here in Portland.
Offering Greek comfort food with flair, Magissa brings the warmth of the Mediterranean to southern Maine. Think lemony avgolemono soup, kalamari, and souvlaki-style gyros. The space is modern yet inviting, with a curated mezze menu perfect for sharing. Pro tip: order the sticky-sweet baklava for dessert.
Courtesy of Magissa
Courtesy of Quanto Basta
DOWNEAST Feast
YOUR GO-TO GUIDE FOR PULLING OFF A FUSS-FREE, FLAVOR-PACKED LOBSTER BOIL THIS SUMMER
ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY BON VIVANTS CREATIVE
There’s no better way to celebrate summer in Maine than with a classic lobster boil or a seaside seafood picnic. Whether you’re gathered on a rocky shoreline or around a backyard table, here are a few tips to make your shellfish spread one to remember.
SOURCE IT FRESH
Start with the good stuff: fresh, local seafood. Hit your neighborhood fish market (we love SoPo Seafood and Harbor Fish Market) or lobster pound for the day’s catch. In addition to lobster, consider mussels, clams and even scallops (be sure to add scallops at the end so they don’t get too tough).
BOIL BASICS
For a traditional boil, layer your ingredients in a large pot: potatoes first, then corn, followed by shellfish. Season generously with sea salt and a bit of Old Bay. Steam over seaweed if you’re feeling authentic. Many shops that sell live lobsters will include or offer fresh seaweed for free or a small fee. Just ask when you're picking up your lobsters!
PICNIC-READY PICKS
No pot? No problem. Cold dishes travel well and pack a punch: lobster rolls, crab salad, and pickled mussels make for a no-fuss picnic. Don’t forget drawn butter in a thermos and plenty of lemon wedges. Great side dish options include classic cornbread, creamy or vinegary coleslaw, watermelonmint-feta salad, and your favorite pasta salad.
SET THE SCENE
Think beyond the table. Spread out beach blankets, bring enamelware and wet wipes, and consider reusable bibs for a splash of charm (and protection). A cooler packed with local craft beer and blueberry soda adds to the vibe.
DON’T SKIP DESSERT
A lobster feast isn’t complete without something sweet. Whoopie pies, wild blueberry pie, or saltwater taffy will hit the spot.
KEEP IT SIMPLE
The key to a great lobster boil or seafood picnic? Keep it lowkey. Let the food shine, lean into the salty breeze, and enjoy the company of friends with buttery fingers and full hearts.
GET INSPIRED
EAT & DRINK SHOP LOCAL
YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
JULY 2025
JULY 11TH Graze
Pineland Farms | 6:00 PM
Graze is a farm-to-table dining experience celebrating local, sustainable food and drink. Enjoy a cocktail hour with Cold River spirits followed by a fourcourse amuse-bouche dinner paired with Maine-made beverages, all under a scenic tent. Organized by Black Tie Catering & Events, this evening supports local farmers and producers. Tickets available at tinyurl.com/graze-july-11.
JULY 11TH-13TH 41st Moxie Festival
Lisbon High School
Moxie is Maine’s iconic, boldly flavored soda with a devoted following. This year’s luau-themed festival, “Hang Loose, Drink Moxie!”, features a parade, 5K race, chugging and whoopie pie contests, live music, a car show, fireworks, and more—all in tribute to the beloved sparkling beverage.
JULY 16TH
Comedian Bob Marley on Peaks
Inn on Peaks Island | 8:00 PM
Join Maine’s own Bob Marley for a night of laughter at the Inn On Peaks Island. Known for his sharp wit and relatable humor, Marley will deliver a performance filled with stories about family, daily life, and New England quirks. Arrive early to enjoy dinner and the island’s scenic charm. Tickets available at tinyurl.com/bob-marley-peaks
125 Morning St. Unit 3/6 Portland, ME
Discover a rare and exceptional East End Penthouse Condo, a true gem offering breathtaking, protected water views and luxurious living in one of Portland’s most sought-after neighborhoods. This stunning residence features a private deck with sweeping vistas of Casco Bay and the Eastern Promenade Park, perfect for savoring the sunrise and morning coffee. Step inside your private elevator, which opens directly into your living room or bedroom wing, offering unparalleled convenience and privacy. The expansive, light-filled living spaces are beautifully appointed with designer finishes, including a gourmet kitchen with a spacious walk-in pantry, open dining area, and a family room with a gas fireplace and panoramic ocean views. This penthouse boasts four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, including a beautifully renovated primary ensuite with a large walk-in closet. Ideal for entertaining, the layout includes ample space for guests, complete with a second kitchenette and family room. Ample storage space in the basement is perfect for exercise equipment, or for outdoor enthusiasts, bikes and paddleboards. With only five units in this completely refurbished building, enjoy the tranquility of a quiet, charming street while being steps away from Portland’s award-winning restaurants and vibrant city life. Additional perks include dedicated parking, and HOA fees that cover heat and hot water. This is not just a home; it’s the perfect place to live the ultimate Portland lifestyle.
List price $2,395,000
