Portland’s Food Scene Sees New Additions Despite Market Challenges

Portland’s vibrant food culture continues to expand with new ventures, despite challenges like reduced foot traffic and post-pandemic economic shifts.

Roasty’s Brings Roast Beef Culture to Congress Street

Roasty’s, a roast beef specialty restaurant, has opened its doors at 642 Congress Street. Taking over the space that once housed Ada’s Kitchen, owner Jenn Rockwell is reintroducing herself to the Portland culinary scene.

Roasty’s offers six regional variations of roast beef sandwiches, representing cities like Boston, Chicago, and Los Angeles, alongside customizable options such as turkey substitutions.

Rockwell emphasizes quality, with beef-cooked sous vide for over 20 hours to ensure uniformity and tenderness. The menu also features seasoned shoestring fries and late-night hours to cater to Portland’s nightlife.

“We’re committed to being open late,” said Rockwell, who aims to serve industry workers and bar-goers.

Public Market Struggles to Attract Tenants

While new businesses open, Portland’s Public Market faces significant vacancies. Once bustling with multiple vendors, the market now hosts only Jamaican eatery Yardie Ting on its first floor, with the second floor entirely vacant.

Building owner Bill Chen attributes the decline to reduced downtown foot traffic and economic factors like inflation.

Despite efforts such as the Monument(al) Market initiative, aimed at boosting activity in Monument Square, Chen has struggled to attract tenants.

“So far, we don’t have much success,” he admitted, but he remains hopeful that new events and collaborations will revive interest in the space.

Second Rodeo Coffee Opens in South Portland

Adding to the area’s culinary diversity, Second Rodeo Coffee has launched in Ferry Village, South Portland. The café offers Vermont-sourced coffee, pastries, and in-house breakfast items, catering to families and the community.

Owner Lana Cooney envisions the space as a hub for events like book launches and poetry readings.

Vesta to Introduce Mediterranean Cuisine in North Yarmouth

Local restaurateurs are also expanding into suburban markets. Vesta, a Mediterranean restaurant blending Italian and Lebanese influences, is set to open in North Yarmouth in January.

With menu highlights like Roman-style pizzas and shawarma sandwiches, owners Kristen Mixter and her team aim to fill a gap in high-quality dining options outside Portland.

Elevenses Café Delays Opening

Meanwhile, the much-anticipated hobbit-themed café Elevenses in Brunswick has delayed its opening to January due to construction setbacks.

Inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s novels, the café will offer British classics like full English breakfasts and afternoon teas, aiming to create a whimsical, all-day dining experience.

As Portland’s food scene evolves, new ventures provide hope and excitement, even as longstanding establishments navigate economic challenges.

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