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The MAINe place to getaway... Portland, ME.

Every year starting when I was 10 we vacationed in Wells Beach, Maine right on Atlantic Ave across from the beach.  If it rained we would go to the Maine Mall in South Portland, (I would soon learn that is not really Portland at all), and occasionally visit downtown for a meal.


Recently my trips to Maine have been to visit one of my best friends, Dave.  He lives in the outskirts of downtown, however, is in a few short weeks relocating to Washington D.C.  (Does this mean there will be posts of trips to the district?  We shall see.)

  Dave chowing on a Lobster Roll (@Lobster Shack)

As it was winter time for the bulk of my visits many of our excursions included beer, food, more beer, and the occasional walk around the water, and did I mention beer?  Portland has some great spots to check out for a microbrew... places I visited (in order of preference):

1.  Gritty McDuff's
2.  Novare Res Bier Cafe
3.  Flatbread Co.
4.  Dewey's
5.  Sea Dog Brew Pub

 Enjoying escargot, olives and a brew at Grill Room

The dining is absolutely fantastic so if you are a huge foodie like me there is something for everyone in Portland.  Downtown is easy to navigate (hard to find parking - but that is any city) and lined with interesting shops - including a wine shop that sells chocolate wine.  Where do you find this wine you ask?  Old Port on 223 Commercial Street, ask for Jacques he will give you a sample.  Just don't accidentally feed it to your laptop or all the keys will stop working.  Just saying.


I highly recommend carelessly driving around the city and getting out of the car for walks along the shore for fantastic photo ops, as well as a great dose of Maine serenity.  If you are planning a trip to Maine be sure to check out my reviews for The Grill Room and Bar, The Lobster Shack (Cape Elizabeth), The Standard Baking Company, Novare Res Bier Cafe, Caiola's, Gritty McDuff's, and The Corner Room.

Enjoy!
 
a pink cosmo with a lime... | TNB