What an event-filled four years of weekly reports on food and beverage I’ve seen happening in the southern Midcoast area. Restaurant openings and closings, beer tastings, wine dinners, farmers markets, agri- and aqua-culture tours, food festivals, competitions, and more occurred regularly (even during the pandemic) and were worthy of note in “Sande’s Picks.” My days […]
Sande’s Picks
Sande’s Picks: Portland Wine Week volunteers wanted
Portland Wine Week is almost here. The week of June 13-19 is packed with lively and tasty events celebrating food, wine (and other beverages) and culinary education. Four kick-off events will be held at Falmouth Country Club on opening day that focus on women winemakers and bring interesting people together over great food experiences. Lots […]
Sande’s Picks: ‘Totally reimagined space’ welcomes patrons to 555 North
Award-winning Chef Steve Corry and his wife, Michelle, who manages the front of the house, have brought their culinary and hospitality skills to a totally reimagined space at 555 North, now open at The Federal hotel. The restaurant at 10 Water St. in downtown Brunswick seats 140 and has new expansive windows, letting in plenty […]
Sande’s Picks: The energy and flavors of Colombia come to Brunswick
Arepas, pasabocas and cazuelas can be found on many streets in Colombia and, now, in Brunswick, Maine, at Maize. Arepas are grilled, stuffed corn pockets that are crispy on the outside and filled with a variety of mixtures of cheeses, meats, veggies, pico de gallo and garlic. They are served with sauces on the side […]
Sande’s Picks: Craft brewing offers new sips for spring
Brewers in our area and throughout the state regularly release new beers made with varying formulas and produce different flavors, colors and mouthfeels. These new releases may coincide with or celebrate a holiday or season, and their flavors reflect that celebration. Here are some new products from local brewers. Maine Beer Company in Freeport has […]
Sande’s Picks: Spring and outdoor farmers markets return
The grass is greening, the birds are singing and it’s time to move the local markets from their winter quarters to the fresh outdoors. Here are some venues for fresh local foods: Brunswick The Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust returns to Crystal Springs Farm, 277 Pleasant Hill Road, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Saturday from […]
Sande’s Picks: Spring is here and Easter buffets are back
With pandemic restrictions easing, buffets have returned to several local restaurants, at least for the Easter holiday. Harraseeket Inn is hosting its Easter Grand Buffet April 17 with all the traditional items, including all-you-can-eat lobster and baked ham. Two seatings are available at noon and 2 p.m. $105/adults, $55/ages 6-12. Children 5 and under are […]
Sande’s Picks: It’s full steam ahead for Maine Maple Sunday Weekend
Celebration is the word for all of the activities around Maine maple syrup. Maine is the third-largest producer of maple syrup in the country and Maine Maple Sunday Weekend March 26-27 is crammed with sweetness at sugarhouses offering samples, demonstrations, games, tours, music and more. There is a map of participating producers at MaineMapleProducers.com/events but […]
Sande’s Picks: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with food, drink and music
There are several area venues that are celebrating St. Patrick’s Day Thursday, March 17, with events ranging from live music to specialty food and drink. A whiskey tasting will be offered at the Falmouth Country Club from 6-8 p.m. Sommelier Erica Archer will curate five fine whiskeys from around the world, accompanied by Executive Chef […]
Sande’s Pick: Freeport’s first chocolate festival will be a sweet day
The inaugural Freeport Chocolate Festival will be held all around town from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 12. Start at Freeport Town Hall at 30 Main St. to pick up a badge and try some chocolate-drizzled popcorn. Stop at Wilbur’s, 174 Lower Main St., for a chocolate bar-making class. The Art of Cake […]