A new Puerto Rican-inspired bar and restaurant called Papi (facebook, instagram) is under construction at 18 Exchange Street. Papi is being launched by Joshua Miranda along with bartender LyAnna Sanabria (instagram).
As you can see, the space is still very much under construction. However, if the remaining work goes according to plan Papi is expected to open in late November or early December. The space will seat 48—15 at the curved bar shown above, 31 in a banquet along the left wall of the space and the 2 remaining seats in a semi enclosed “lover’s booth” with louvered French doors towards the back of the bar.
The menu will feature food and drink inspired by the foodways of Puerto Rican. Sanabria shared, “I remember hearing a Nuyorican say ‘we are our ancestors wildest dreams’ and that is honestly how I envision the cocktail program for Papi. Like most Puerto Ricans I was heavily impacted by watching my family cook and dance. Honoring the diaspora, expect flavors like guava, coconut and sofrito while melding with the fresh and seasonal seaside flavors available here in Maine.”
Here’s a look at the draft food and beverage menus:
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The Papi team will be running a pop-up event on October 10th where you’ll be able to get an early taste of the food and cocktails. The pop-up will raise funds for VisitRico and ConPRmetidos to aid residents of the island as they recover from hurricane Fiona. Tickets are now available.
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