Big Tree Hospitality will be leasing the former Local 188 which they plan to use as an event space and a kitchen for their catering operations.
Big Tree Hospitality is excited to announce that they will be the new stewards of the Local 188 space at 685 Congress St. in Portland which will be used as an event venue and home base for Big Tree Catering. Jay Villani’s Local 188 has been a beloved food and beverage institution since 1999 and many of Big Tree’s family and friends, including co-owner Arlin Smith, worked for Villani during that time. “This opportunity is especially meaningful to us, and we’re honored to carry the torch, preserving this iconic space while creating a new venue to celebrate weddings, host pop-ups, guest chef dinners, and give our catering team a home of their own.” says Smith.
Local 188 chef/owner Jay Villani will be working with Big Tree to help them adapt the space. He shared, “I’m excited to help Big Tree Catering preserve the elegance and warmth of this vibrant room and gently transform it into a dynamic setting that retains the communal feel of Local.” Renovations will be taking place over the winter. Stay tuned to the Big Tree Catering instagram account for updates.
Big Tree Hospitality launched Eventide in 2012 and The Honey Paw in 2015. They also operate three local markets South Freeport, Scarborough and Falmouth. The Big Tree team is led by Arlin Smith and James Beard Award-winning chef Andrew Taylor.
Local 188 closed earlier this year after 25 years in business.