MaineBiz interviewed Elsmere BBQ co-founders Adam Powers and Jeremy Rush about the second Elsmere they have under development on Stevens Ave in the former Siano’s.

“What attracted us is that the property is the same model as this place, where you’re nestled into a neighborhood,” said Powers. “It’s not tourist-reliant. To use a cliché, if someone goes there, everyone will know your name.”

Powers, Rush and their new business partner Nat Towl hope to open this new Elsmere in May.

A new on-the-water food delivery service called Waypoint Provisions (instagram) is set to launch in Casco Bay this May.

Nikaline Iacono is launching a new venture called Vessel and Vine (facebook, instagram) at 4 Pleasant Street in Brunswick.

The 1,500 square foot space will be home to a hybrid wine and beer retail store, vintage and new glassware and barware shop combined with a bar serving a beer, wine, cocktails and a compact menu of small plates (see below).

The drinks list will feature a rotating by the glass and bottle selection of wines from small producers with some natural wines in the mix. The bar will have 3 beers on tap, and serve a cocktail list featuring fortified and/or aromatized wines. Iacono plans to have a program for developing bitters and infusions for use in their cocktails and will be creating a house-made vermouth.

The Bearded Lady will be hosting Iacono on February 24th  where she’ll be serving a line-up of V&V cocktails.

I first met Nikaline back in 2008 when she was the bartender at the then newly launched Emilitsa, and am excited  to  see her vision for Vessel & Vine come together. She plans to open V&V in March.

Here’s a look at the draft menu created by chef Matt DeFio.