The Golden Dish has published a comparison of Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s.
In comparing the Portland branches of Trader Joe’s to Whole Foods, is it about two stores vying for the same shopper? Or does it come down to basic apples to oranges assessment?
The April issues of Down East and Maine magazines are now out. Down East has published a review of Schulte & Herr,
A must-have is the potato pancakes with house-cured lox. The pancakes, pillowy puffs with a slightly crunchy exterior, are the perfect vehicle for a pile of buttery ribbons of delicate salmon, topped with cornichons, capers, matchstick radishes, and a dollop of horseradish sour cream.
and Maine has published a review of David’s Opus Ten.
My faith in [chef David] Turin has been justified time and time again, with every bite leaving me in excited anticipation of what may be coming next. The meal is an incredible sensory experience, with Turin’s bold signature flavors becoming even more intense in smaller preparations.
The Opus Ten review is not yet available online.
Active Beer Geek has published a joint review of In’finiti and Little Tap House,
If you want a more laid back environment with a slightly better menu, than you should choose Little Tap House. If you want to spend a little more money and enjoy beer and spirits made in-house than you should choose In’Finiti. As for me, both destinations are on my “go-to” list for beer destinations. That means there’s a chance you will see me at both locations enjoying local craft beer.
The Kennebec Journal has published a review of Zapoteca.
We were nonplussed by the lengthy bar menu, until Kelsey helped us select a couple of outstanding Magaritas…Ours went extremely well with our appetizers. All I can say about the Guacamole is holy mole! I would have bought a gallon to go. The chefs sent out two delicious tacos that are not on the dinner menu. And our Tres Sopes, a “tasting of three golden masa bites” for just $9, could easily be a meal.
Today’s Press Herald includes a bar review of the Bar of Chocolate Cafe,
The Bar of Chocolate may easily be the Old Port’s best-kept secret. Tucked between the Oasis and Amigos, this bar is unlike any other I’ve been to in Maine.
Patrons walk in off the cobblestone street to find comfy chairs, a few tables and a small L-shaped bar with stools. To the right of the bar is a nicely lit dessert case filled with delectable treats for some late-night snacking.
and a What Ales You column about Geary’s Summer Ale and a plan to sell the beer in cans.
In a related topic, Geary said that later this summer, the company will be selling the Summer Ale in cans in a partnership with Wachusett Brewing Co. in Westminster, Mass., near Fitchburg.
“Wachusett has the canning equipment,” Geary said. “What is good about this is that we will brew the beer here, doing everything but the packaging. Then a 200-barrel tank truck shows up and will take it directly to Wachusett’s.”
Dispatch has published a reviewlette of Blue Rooster.
Tater tot poutine. Boom. Mind freak. Golden ‘tots smothered in gravy and cheese curds, with a little black pepper for flavor. I died. You’re gonna die guys. It’s so good.
Dispatch has published a review of In’finiti.
Next up the Chicharrones with Chimichurri sauce. This was the winner of the day. Deliciously crunchy with plenty of sauce for dipping, the chicharrones are a perfect dish to enjoy with a house brew. Although the Steak and Stilton Croquette was calling my name, I went with the Chorizo and Quail Eggs instead. This Mexican style sausage is one of my favs and they did it well.
Lobster Gal has published a review of The Lobster Shack in Cape Elizabeth.
Clean, efficient, well maintained, bright, cheery outside, cozy inside and all this is on one of the best spots of real estate where lobster is served on the Maine coast. I really can’t say enough good things about the actual location and the restaurant itself. Except the lobster roll, it’s the only thing that just doesn’t measure up.
The Lobster Shack opens for the season this Saturday.
Miyake (#53) and Hugo’s (#57) are in the Opinionated About Dining 2013 list of the top 100 restaurants in the United States. Regional top 25 lists and OAD’s list of the top cheap eats destinations will come out later this year.
Last year OAD rated Miyake #54 and Hugo’s #60 in their top 100 list for the US.
The Maine Sunday Telegram has published a review of The Merry Table.
I suggest this warm, friendly space when Quebec is too far to drive. Crepe enthusiasts should love the area’s only dedicated creperie, and the Merry Table also delivers excellent French classics in a cozy and rustic space. Seasonal outdoor seating is especially inviting when the weather is good.