Remote and hybrid work options have contributed to more sporadic weekday foot traffic in the heart of the city. That’s made things even harder than usual for the small businesses who used to rely on both regulars and passersby.
Tim Cebula
Staff Writer
Tim Cebula has been a food writer and editor for 23 years. A former correspondent for The Boston Globe food section, his work has appeared in Time, Health, Food & Wine, CNN.com, and Boston magazine, among other publications. He is also a former judge for both the restaurant and journalism portions of the James Beard Awards. He was most recently senior editor at Cooking Light magazine, where he worked for 13 years. Tim lives in Old Orchard Beach.
The Wrap: Argenta Brewing to open Friday in Bayside; Thai Esaan closes temporarily
Also, Community Plate announces new dates for story suppers; Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association debuts a dip; and upcoming cooking classes at Camden Harbour Inn.
Eat & Run: At Asian Combo in Biddeford, you won’t go wrong with Thai dishes
The new takeout restaurant also serves Laotian and Vietnamese cuisine.
Maine chefs embrace the challenges of cooking outside – in winter
Three Maine chefs tell tales of battling the elements while feeding a crowd, and offer tips for how you can pull off an outdoor winter feast.
The Wrap: Bar opening on Munjoy Hill; Cajun restaurant launches in North Deering
Also, Prentice Hospitality Group is opening a Portuguese-inspired seafood restaurant on Thames Street; Lorne Wine closing as owners become wine importers; Taj moving to a bigger space in SoPo; and Oun Lido’s aims to launch in a matter of weeks.
Indian restaurant Taj moving to larger South Portland location
The new space in the Shops at Clarks Pond is three times the size of the current Gorham Road restaurant.
The Wrap: Freeport may get a food truck park; Smoked to open Portland location
Also, Texas Roadhouse reopens after a fire, there’s a chocolate festival in Greenville, and more.
Dumplings bring luck – and family togetherness – for the Chinese New Year
Learn to make the iconic new year’s dish at home.
The Wrap: Linden + Front opening in Bath; Maples closes in New Gloucester
Plus, Blake Orchard aims to open juice-and-smoothie shops in Brunswick and Scarborough later this year; a West African culinary workshop in Brunswick; and Maine Restaurant Week returns for a 16th year.
It’s crunch time: A popcorn primer for awards season
With film awards in full swing and the Oscars looming on the horizon, it’s as good a time as any to level up your popcorn game. We have recipe and topper ideas to keep you popping all winter long.