The December issue of The Bollard has hit newsstands. It includes another installment in the Land of Forgotten Cocktails series by mixologist John Myers and a review of the Miss Portland Diner. The review found the food somewhat lacking for the price “Miss Portland isn’t exactly sure what she wants to be. She’s too expensive to be a greasy spoon, but not good enough to reach the next level of dining in a city with plenty of other good options.”
Andy’s Old Port Pub
The Portland Phoenix has reviewed Andy’s Old Port Pub.
“To get the menu you flag down one of the bartenders — seasoned thirtysomethings who suit the place. It’s the standard pub approach for the most part: burgers, pizza, fried stuff, something Mexican — with a few more ambitious entrees. The servings are big, and the food’s not bad.”
Miss Portland Diner
Portland Magazine has reviewed the Miss Portland Diner.
“But back to bacon, how good’s the food here? This is as good diner fare as we have ever enjoyed – not ‘gourmet,’ but the real deal.”
Port City Life
The December issue of Port City Life is now out. Standard Baking appears in a short list of Maine bakeries, there’s a profile of wild foods expert Kate Gooding, and the new issue provides some advice on what to get the foodie on your Christmas list.
Maine Food & Lifestyle
The new issue of Maine Food & Lifestyle magazine, which hit the newsstands last week, includes a nice profile of Green Elephant, as well as articles on the Maine oyster industry, Freeport’s Haraseeket Inn, a short list of some Maine chocolatiers.
Portland's the New Portland
Epicurious has published their list of 2009 food trends (via Portland Psst!). Number 8 on the list is “Portland (Maine) is the new Portland (Oregon). Abundance of great chefs, restaurants, and local foodies? Check, check, and check. Want examples? Visit Five Fifty-Five, Hugo’s, and Fore Street to start.”
Great Chilli & Chowder Challenge
The annual Great Chilli & Chowder Challenge has been cancelled by it’s organizers in favor of planning a Family Expo.
More Events
There have been a couple last minute additions to this week’s event calendar. On Friday, Rabelais is hosting a photography exhibit called Island Sheep by local food photographer Russell French; and on Saturday, the East End Shops Holiday Stroll is taking place.
November's Stats
The 10 restaurants looked up most often during the month of December were:
This Week’s Events
The Northeast Aquaculture Conference is taking place at the Eastland Park Hotel Wednesday through Friday. On Monday the next Piatto per Tutti cooking class is being held. Wednesday there is a chocolate tasting at Whole Foods. Whole Foods is also teaching a sushi making class on Thursday. Thursday night The Great Lost Bear is showcasing the beer of Shipyard Brewing. There are wine tastings scheduled this week at West End Deli on Friday and Leroux Kitchen on Saturday. For more information on these and other upcoming food happenings in the area, visit the event calendar.