{"id":3585,"date":"2010-12-30T08:57:41","date_gmt":"2010-12-30T15:57:41","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/?p=3585"},"modified":"2010-12-30T12:10:41","modified_gmt":"2010-12-30T19:10:41","slug":"eat-3-0","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/eat-3-0\/","title":{"rendered":"Eat 3.0"},"content":{"rendered":"

Winterguide 2011<\/p>\n

download this story as a .pdf<\/a><\/p>\n

By Judith Gaines<\/p>\n

The Gastrognome’s* Guide to Planet Maine rolls out<\/h3>\n

Eat 3.0<\/h2>\n

Get your plate out of the past and back to the future. How? Ditch the stuffy 1980s “foodie” label and get ready for some lip-smacking fun right here in Maine.<\/h3>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

(*We applaud T<\/em>he Village Voice‘s very public decision last year to ban the word “Foodie” as sounding so Last Century, so Ross-and-Rachel. Seattle Weekly food writer Jason Sheehan, in his blog post “Suck It, Foodies,” ventures “Grubnik” or “Gastronaut” as alternatives. At press time, a couple of glasses of wine to the wind, we’ve selected “Gastrognome.” By way of clarification, the former New York Jets football star is Mark Gastineau.)<\/em><\/p>\n

Ciao, Portland!
\nThe Italians Are Coming!<\/span><\/h2>\n

June 10-12, 2011<\/p>\n

“This won\u2019t have a \u2018big-tour-bus\u2019 feel,\u201d says Midge Vreeland of the upcoming Italian Life Expo, a three-day celebration of Italy\u2019s boisterous culture and bold cuisine. Co-sponsored by the Spannocchia Foundation\u2013a Portland- and Siena, Italy-based group dedicated to \u201cencouraging global dialogue about sustaining cultural landscapes for future generations,\u201d of which Vreeland is president\u2013the event will provide a \u2018small-town-Italy\u2019 experience for much less than a plane ticket.<\/p>\n

For roughly $30, attendees will enjoy sipping a deep, velvety Barolo from the family-owned Salvano vineyard nestled in the Piedmont region; tucking into an egg lasagna \u201cau gratin\u201d with beef, fennel seed, and Tuscan sausage ragu by Chef Pino di Cicco of Antica Osteria Da Divo in Siena; speaking with Tuscan artist Ferro Battuto Biagiotti about his handcrafted iron wares; and imagining themselves on an \u201cagriturismo\u201d vacation, exploring a romantic, centuries-old organic farm under a brilliant Tuscan sun.<\/p>\n

For Vreeland, the eponymous co-owner of a Yarmouth marketing firm, the journey is a sentimental one. \u201cMy husband, Stew, and I fell in love with Italy and eventually bought a house in the Umbrian hilltown of Panicale. When we are there, we are always thinking of the season and eating accordingly. When our friends, Peter and Gail Cinelli (the Cinelli family has owned Castello di Spannocchia in Siena since 1925, when author Delfino Cinelli acquired the property to use as a place to write) offered me a spot on Spannocchia\u2019s board, I didn\u2019t hesitate.\u201d The organization boasts 700 Mainers on their mailing list (spannocchia.org), and the event is expected to draw about 1,500 attendees.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe chose to host this event in Portland rather than someplace larger, like Boston, because we wanted an intimate, personable feel. It\u2019s been our experience that the smaller regions and organizations get overwhelmed at the bigger shows by Milan fashion shows and huge auto companies, et cetera. This is about real people.\u201d<\/p>\n

Sponsors include Auto Europe and the Institute for International Studies.<\/strong><\/p>\n

January 23, 2011 <\/strong><\/span>Pies on Parade<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Participants walk or hop a trolley to sample 45 different sweet or savory pies at Rockland inns, restaurants, and businesses. Proceeds support the Area Interfaith Outreach Food Pantry. 877-762-4667, historicinnsofrockland.com<\/p>\n

February 19-20 <\/span>Maine Home, Remodeling, <\/span><\/strong>and Garden Show<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Includes \u201cMeet the Chef\u201d series: chefs from Maine and New Hampshire show how to prepare their most famous dishes. 935-2845, homegardenflowershow.com<\/p>\n

March 8 <\/strong><\/span>Fat Tuesday Party & Cajun Cook-off<\/strong>
\n<\/span>WMPG radio invites the public to join in a live broadcast and Cajun Cook-off for Fat Tuesday. Sample jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish etouf\u00e9e made by some of Greater Portland\u2019s best chefs\u2013and vote for your favorite dishes. Individual entries welcome. 780-4151, wmpg.org<\/p>\n

March 16 <\/strong><\/span>Maine Restaurant and Lodging Expo<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Trade show for restaurant\/lodging professionals features exhibits from over 120 companies. Cumberland County Civic Center, Portland. 623-2177, mainerestaurant.com<\/p>\n

March 18<\/span> <\/span><\/strong>Free ice cream<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Gifford\u2019s offers free ice cream cones to welcome Spring. Skowhegan, Bangor, Farmington, Auburn, and Waterville locations. giffordsicecream.com<\/p>\n

March 25-26 <\/strong><\/span>Flavors of Freeport<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Tastings and demonstrations by Freeport chefs and food purveyors. 865-9099, flavorsoffreeport.com<\/p>\n

March 27 <\/strong><\/span>Eat the Heat Chili Cook-off<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Professional and amateur cooks vie for the title \u201cBest Chili Cook.\u201d White Cap Base Lodge. 824-3000, sundayriver.com<\/p>\n

March 27 <\/strong><\/span>Maine Maple Sunday<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Sugarhouses throughout the state invite the public to join in making maple syrup. 287-3491, getrealmaine.com<\/p>\n

April 1-3 <\/strong><\/span>Parrot Head Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Featuring a margarita mix-off and Key Lime pie-eating contest. Sunday River. 824-3000, sundayriver.com<\/p>\n

April 22-24 <\/strong><\/span>Fishermen\u2019s Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>A fish fry, lobster trap hauling, and dory bailing. Boothbay Harbor. 633-6280, boothbayharbor.com<\/p>\n

April 29 <\/strong><\/span>An Evening with Friends<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Fine dining with paired wines to support scholarships for Southern Maine Community College and other rotary-club charities. SMCC. 799-2314, breakwater-rotary.org<\/p>\n

May 2 <\/strong><\/span>Taste of OOB<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Participating Old Orchard Beach businesses offer samples of their wares\u2013edible or otherwise. 281-2114, oob365.com<\/p>\n

May 21-22 <\/strong><\/span>Seed to Soil<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Enjoy a vegetarian feast. Rippling Waters Farm, Steep Falls. 642-5161, ripplingwaters.org<\/p>\n

June 1-5 <\/strong><\/span>Fine Living Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Fine food, cooking demonstrations, and wine tastings\u00a0to celebrate Food Independence Day. Kennebunkport. 423-9387, finelivingfestival.com<\/p>\n

June 3-4 <\/strong><\/span>Festival Franco Fun<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Franco-American food favorites. 783-<\/span>1585, francoamericanheritage.org<\/span><\/p>\n

June 4 <\/strong><\/span>Family Fishing Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Catch your own fish for an outdoor BBQ! Learn to\u00a0spin and fly cast with complimentary rods and reels.\u00a0824-3694, upperandro.com<\/p>\n

June 12 <\/strong><\/span>Old Port Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Featuring local ethnic food. 772-6828, portlandmaine.com<\/p>\n

June 17-19 <\/strong><\/span>Midsommar Celebration<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Swedish communities in New Sweden, Stockholm, Woodland, and Caribou celebrate Maine Swedish Colony\u2019s 141st anniversary with traditional food at various venues. 896-5240, maineswedishcolony.info<\/p>\n

June 18 <\/strong><\/span>Dairy Day at Morris Farm<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Sample cheese, milk, and yogurt from several Maine dairies. Butter churning and milking demonstrations. Wiscassett. 882-4080, morrisfarm.org<\/p>\n

June 23-25 <\/span>Greek F<\/span>ood Festival
\n<\/span><\/strong>Greek food prepared in the traditional way using authentic ingredients. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Portland. holytrinityportland.org<\/p>\n

\n

June 24-26 <\/strong><\/span>Spirit in America<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Featuring a \u201cnight glow,\u201d tethered balloon rides, lobster bake, and BBQ contest. Old Orchard Beach. 934-0860, oob365.com<\/p>\n

July 4 <\/strong><\/span>Food Independence Day<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Savor your independence with locally sourced ingredients or food you\u2019ve raised yourself. foodindependenceday.org<\/p>\n

July 8-10 <\/strong><\/span>Greek Heritage Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>A three-day homage to Greek culture, with traditional food and entertainment. St. Demetrios Orthodox Greek Church, Saco. 284-5651, stdemetriosmaine.org<\/p>\n

July 9-17 <\/strong><\/span>Maine Potato Blossom Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Nine days to enjoy miles of fields with lovely lavender and white blossoms, farmer olympics, and mashed potato wrestling. Fort Fairfield. 472-3802, potatoblossom.org<\/p>\n

July 15-17 <\/strong><\/span>Maine\u2019s Celtic Celebration<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Features the U.S. National Cheese Rolling Championship. Participants race downhill to catch wheels of cheddar cheese by State of Maine Cheese Company. Winner gets the whole hunk. Also a contest to pick the \u201cCeltic Iron Chef.\u201d Belfast waterfront. 338-2692, mainecelticcelebration.com<\/p>\n

July 15-17 <\/strong><\/span>Yarmouth Clam Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Three days of fried whole clams in batter, fried whole clams in crumbs, clam cakes, steamed clams, clam chowder, clam pizza, fried clam strips, and clam-shucking. 846-3984, clamfestival.com<\/p>\n

July 15-17 <\/strong><\/span>Waterford World\u2019s Fair<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Traditional agricultural fair in a small community. 583-4993 or 514-0333, waterfordworldsfair.org<\/p>\n

July 18 <\/strong><\/span>Weed and Feed<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Help pick weeds in return for a locally raised lunch, and go on a wild food treasure hunt in the forest. Rippling Waters Farm, Steep Falls. 642-5161, ripplingwaters.org<\/p>\n

July 19-23 <\/strong><\/span>Central Maine Egg Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Early bird breakfast, chicken BBQ, \u201cegglympics\u201d for kids, quiche contest, and one of the world\u2019s largest frying pans! Pittsfield. 680-0646, eggfest.craftah.com<\/p>\n

July 24 <\/strong><\/span>Open Farm Day<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Farms throughout Maine offer demonstrations, hay rides, and pick-your-own possibilities. Also free tours by Sabbathday Lake Shaker community in New Gloucester. 287-3491, getrealmaine.com. 926-4597, shaker.lib.me.us<\/p>\n

August 3 <\/strong><\/span>A Taste of Greater Waterville<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Dine under the stars in historic downtown Waterville. Features a beer garden. 873-3315, midmainechamber.com<\/p>\n

August 3-4 <\/strong><\/span>Merryspring\u2019s Annual Kitchen Tour<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Tour interesting kitchens in the Camden, Rockport, and Lincolnville areas, with refreshments provided by local chefs. 236-2239, merryspring.org<\/p>\n

August 3-7 <\/strong><\/span>Maine Lobster Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Savor a succulent lobster as you look out over Penobscot Bay. Last year, more than 20,000 pounds of lobster were steamed here in \u201cthe world\u2019s largest lobster cooker,\u201d a show in itself. Book signings and cooking contests. Rockland. 596-0376, mainelobsterfest.com<\/p>\n

August 11-15 <\/strong><\/span>Acadian Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Sample traditional Acadian dishes. Madawaska. 728-7000, acadianfestival.com<\/p>\n

August 12-14 <\/span>Ploye Festival & Muskie <\/span>Fishing Derby
\n<\/span><\/strong>Sample this Franco-American favorite, see \u201cthe world\u2019s largest ploye,\u201d and try muskie fishing on the St. John River. Fort Kent. 834-5354<\/p>\n

August 13 <\/strong><\/span>Backyard Locavore Tour<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Educational garden tour in Cumberland County, provided by University of Maine\u2019s Cooperative Extension Service, showcases ways to increase self-sufficiency. 780-4213<\/p>\n

August 13-14 <\/strong><\/span>Celebrate Maine<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Sample bean-hole beans, local cheeses, fruit juices, beer, Moxie, and mussels. Raitt Homestead Farm Museum, Eliot. 748-3303, celebratemainefestival.com<\/p>\n

August 19-21 <\/strong><\/span>Machias Wild Blueberry Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Enjoy blueberry pancakes, muffins, and pies and pie-eating contests. 255-6665,
\nmachiasblueberry.com<\/p>\n

August 25-28 <\/strong><\/span>Piscataquis Valley Fair<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Features a milking parlor and ice cream. Dover-Foxcroft. 943-2650, piscataquisvalleyfair.com<\/p>\n

August 27 <\/strong><\/span>Meal by a Maze<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Four local chefs prepare a difference course for a dinner in the fields by a maze on Sherman Farms on the Fryeburg\/East Conway border. Dinner preceded by a trolley ride to several farms in the Mt. Washington Valley. 800-367-3364 for tickets, fieldsonthesaco.com<\/p>\n

August 27 <\/strong><\/span>Wells Chili-Fest<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Annual chili and salsa cookoff, sanctioned by the International Chili Society. Winners advance to the World Chili Championship. 646-2451, wellschilifest.com<\/p>\n

August 28 <\/strong><\/span>Kitchen Garden Day<\/strong>
\n<\/span>An international time for celebrating home harvests. Participants recognize the day in different ways\u2013from organizing garden tours to hosting home-grown potluck dinners. 956-0606, kitchengardeners.org<\/p>\n

September 4 <\/span>Tomato Tasting and Luncheon
\n<\/span><\/strong>Join the Morris Farm\u2019s master gardeners on the porch for an heirloom tomato tasting followed by a tomato-filled lunch. 882-4080, morrisfarm.org<\/p>\n

September 8-10 <\/span>Lewiston-Auburn Greek Festival
\n<\/span><\/strong>Greek pastries, a taverna, and Greek lunch and dinner. 783-6795, holytrinitymaine.org<\/p>\n

September11 <\/span>Maine Apple Sunday
\n<\/span><\/strong>Visit apple orchards around the state. Check out apple festivals in Alfred, Cornish, Monmouth, Livermore Falls, Manchester, and Farmington. maineapples.org<\/p>\n

September16 <\/span>Soil <\/span><\/strong>to Supp<\/strong>er
\n<\/span>Held at Rippling Waters, a CSA in Standish, the event brings food-lovers right to the source for a late-summer potluck that includes music and agricultural education 2-6:30 p.m. slowfoodportland.org<\/p>\n

September 17 <\/span>Mt.<\/span> <\/span><\/strong>Desert Island Garlic Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Chefs, brewers, and garlic growers celebrate the pungent little bulb at Smugglers\u2019 Den Campground. 288-0269<\/p>\n

September 23-25 <\/strong><\/span>Common Ground Country Fair<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Participate in discussions of hot topics in farming, gardening, and food preparation, sponsored by MOFGA. Unity. 568-4142, mofga.org<\/p>\n

September 25 <\/strong><\/span>Pemaquid Oyster Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Slurp only the best oysters at this annual festival. Schooner\u2019s Landing Restaurant, Damariscotta. 380-9912<\/p>\n

October 1-10 <\/span>Damariscotta Pumpkinfest <\/span><\/strong>& Regatta<\/strong>
\n<\/span>A ten-day homage to all things pumpkin: a sanctioned pumpkin weigh-off (last year\u2019s winner totaled an amazing 1,471 pounds), pumpkin catapulting, pumpkin boat races, pumpkin pie-eating, and a cooking-with-pumpkin contest. 592-6184, damariscottapumpkinfest.com<\/p>\n

October 2 <\/strong><\/span>Slow Food Mid-Coast Maine American Harvest Picnic<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Celebrate rare foods grown by local farmers and prepared by area chefs. Apple pie contest, and cider pressing. Morris Farm, Wiscasset. 882-4080, morrisfarm.org<\/p>\n

October 9<\/strong><\/span> Open Creamery Day<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Award-winning Maine cheesemakers offer samples, and cheesemakers around the state invite you to visit their operations. mainecheeseguild.org<\/p>\n

October 15-16 <\/strong><\/span>York Harvestfest<\/strong>
\n<\/span>A roasted ox and bean-hole beans\u2013who can refuse?\u00a0363-4422, gatewaytomaine.org<\/p>\n

October 29 or 30 <\/strong><\/span>Great Maine Apple Day<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Workshops on cider and wine making, cooking with old-time recipes, apple art, and tasting of heirloom varieties. Common Ground Educational Center, Unity.\u00a0568-4142, mofga.org<\/p>\n

November 12 <\/strong><\/span>Savor the Flavor<\/strong>
\n<\/span>This progressive dinner in Old Orchard Beach goes from restaurant to restaurant for a six-course meal and then in reverse for drinks. 281-2114, oob365.com<\/p>\n

November 19 <\/strong><\/span>Greek Holiday Bazaar<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Greek food is the main attraction at this gathering, where you can get a hot meal or holiday gifts for food-loving friends. St. Demetrios, Saco. stdemetriosmaine.org<\/p>\n

November 26-December 24 <\/strong><\/span>Taste of Bethel<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Sample specialties of local chefs. bethelmaine.com<\/p>\n

December 2-11 <\/strong><\/span>Christmas Prelude<\/strong>
\n<\/span>A week of festive fare, including champagne receptions, roasted chestnuts at the monastery, and holiday table-setting tips. Kennebunkport. christmasprelude.com<\/p>\n

December 3 <\/strong><\/span>Chester Greenwood Day<\/strong>
\n<\/span>The Farmington fellow who invented the earmuff is remembered with chili and gingerbread house contests. 778-4215, franklincountymaine.org<\/p>\n

December 3 <\/strong><\/span>Shaker Christmas Fair<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Homemade, Shaker baked goods, including Brother Arnold\u2019s famous biscuits, cheese, pickles, wreaths, and the famous Shaker oval boxes. New Gloucester. 926-4597<\/p>\n

December 24 <\/strong><\/span>Feast of the Seven Fishes<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Traditional holiday Italian feast with four courses and seven fishes. Cinque Terre, Portland. 347-6154 for reservations.<\/p>\n

\n

Delicious Winter<\/h2>\n

Dining on the Peak
\n<\/strong><\/span>Ride the chondola up the mountain at Sunday River ski resort in Bethel for dinner on the mountaintop. Saturdays only. 824-5076, sundayriver.com<\/p>\n

Dinner with Romann<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Three- ($38), four- ($46), or five- ($55) course dinner special. January-April, Grissini Italian Bistro, Kennebunkport. Reservations required.\u00a0967-2211, restaurantgrissini.com<\/p>\n

\n

Like<\/h2>\n

Maine Restaurant Week<\/strong>
\n<\/span>March 1-12 & November
\nRestaurants throughout the state offer special, three-course meals at $20.11, $30.11, or $40.11 for dinner, or $15.11 for lunch. Proceeds help hungry and homeless Mainers. Past participants have included Hugo\u2019s, Eve\u2019s at the Garden, Back Bay Grill, Five Fifty-Five, The Front Room, Cinque Terre, Bar Lola, and Bresca. This is a great way to sample a restaurant you\u2019ve been wanting to try and also help those in need. Some hotels and inns offer special stay-and-dine packages. Reservations advised.
\n775-2126, mainerestaurantweek.com<\/p>\n

\n

Sensational Spring<\/h2>\n

<\/em><\/p>\n

Portland Symphony Wine Dinner
\n<\/strong><\/span>Enjoy wines expertly paired with culinary creations in a multi-course meal prepared by Maine\u2019s most distinguished chefs. Proceeds benefit the PSO. portlandsymphony.org<\/p>\n

Fiddlefest
\n<\/strong><\/span>Celebrate spring with its tasty harbingers: fiddleheads, peas, ramps, and asparagus, fixed imaginatively. March 11, University of Southern\u00a0Maine. maineasta.org<\/p>\n

Maine Foodie Tours<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Explore why Portland is a culinary destination with daily walking tours stopping to sample locally-made food and drink. This year the tour focuses on Portland\u2019s \u201cWest Side Story\u201d and its ethnic flare. Tours begin in the spring and continue through December. 233-7485, mainefoodietours.com<\/p>\n

Interface<\/h2>\n

Art and food come together <\/strong><\/em><\/span>in a creative collage<\/em>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Art at the Grill
\n<\/strong><\/span>Monthly receptions for local artists, featuring different works each month. Includes free appetizers, wines, and cocktails by Chef Rick Hirsch. Year round, Damariscotta River Grill. 563-2992, damariscottarivergrill.com<\/p>\n

Slow Food Portland Writers\u2019 Night
\n<\/strong><\/span>Authors who write about food read from their works, with tasty food offerings from Maine\u2019s most talented Slow Food cooks. Past participants have included Ed Behr, Anne Mendelson, Max Watman, Sandy Oliver, Nancy Harmon Jenkins, and Kathy Gunst. March 10. slowfoodportland.org<\/p>\n

<\/span> Pop the Cork<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Three toasts to the arts with food, wine, music, and dance and proceeds to benefit a local arts NPO. June 23, MidCoastal area; July 28, Ogunquit; August 18, Portland.\u00a0763-4478, mainewine.com<\/p>\n

<\/span> Kennebunkport Festival
\n<\/span><\/strong>Paintings and sculptures grace inns and restaurants in Kennebunkport, and chefs create special meals inspired by the art. Includes a Grand Tasting of global wines and Maine food at The Colony restaurant, a casual BBQ and microbrew fest, plus dinners with winemakers and artists in private homes. June 1-5. 772-3373, kennebunkportfestival.com<\/p>\n

<\/span> Writers\u2019 Night<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Regional food writers join local culinary talents to present a January evening of readings and a taste of Maine\u2019s winter bounty. Past readers have included Ed Behr, Nancy Harmon Jenkins, Sandy Oliver, James Peterson, Anne Mendelson, and Margaret Hathaway. slowfoodportland.org<\/p>\n

Bookmark<\/h2>\n

Revel with the Rabble
\n<\/strong><\/span>French writer Francois Rabelais\u2019s last words reportedly were: \u201cI go to seek The Great Perhaps.\u201d This could be the motto for this Portland bookstore of the same name, purveyors of fine books on food, wine, farming, and gardening. Bon\u00a0Appetit<\/em> calls it \u201cthe clubhouse\u201d for Maine food-lovers who gather for receptions, signings, exhibits, book club meetings, and discussions throughout the year. rabelaisbooks.com<\/p>\n

Beta Version<\/h2>\n

Maine Food lab <\/strong>
\n<\/span>(at the former Roma Cafe) <\/span>769 Congress
\nStreet\u00a0Watch\u00a0for\u00a0delicious\u00a0developments\u00a0at\u00a0Maine\u00a0Food\u00a0Lab,\u00a0Quimby\u00a0Colony\u2019s\u00a0\u201cculinary\u00a0incubator\u201d\u00a0featuring\u00a0lectures,\u00a0workshops,\u00a0and\u00a0tastings\u00a0for\u00a0the\u00a0general\u00a0public.
\nTo\u00a0track\u00a0up\u00a0to\u00a012\u00a0events\u00a0per\u00a0month\u00a0here,\u00a0visit\u00a0mainefoodlab.com.<\/p>\n

\n

Bits & Bytes<\/h2>\n

\n

Late October <\/strong><\/span>Harvest on the Harbor<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Seminars, tastings of Maine-made products, and meals crafted by the state\u2019s best chefs. Greater Portland Convention and Visitors Bureau. harvestontheharbor.com<\/p>\n

\n

As You Like It<\/h2>\n

\n

Meals in the Fields<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Chef Sebastian Carosi orchestrates meals in farm fields, barns, creameries, and other romantic spots using organic, locally grown ingredients. eatmainefoods.org<\/p>\n

Moon Meals<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Once a month all year round, on the eve of the full moon, Salt Water Farm in Lincolnville offers a special four-course meal for $65, BYOB. 230-0966, saltwaterfarm.com<\/p>\n

Farmer’s Markets
\n<\/strong><\/span>Locals sell freshly harvested produce, meat, cheese, bread, flowers, and assorted speciality products directly to their neighbors. Maine has nearly 100 of these markets throughout the state, including during the winter months. 287-3491, getrealmaine.com<\/p>\n

Meal Deal<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Solo Bistro in Bath offers a special three-course dinner for $15.99 every Wednesday. 443-3373, solobistro.com<\/p>\n

Chef Encounters<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Watch Executive Chef Jeffrey Hodgdon prepare your feast right in front of you at the Chef\u2019s Table. Reservations required. The Salt Exchange, Portland. 347-5687, thesaltexchange.net<\/p>\n

Budget Gourmet<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Chefs-in-training from Southern Maine Community College\u2019s Culinary Arts program prepare four-course dinners Wednesday and Thursday, buffet lunch on Friday. $12. SMCC Dining Room, South Portland. 741-5612, smccme.edu<\/p>\n

Crostini Bar
\n<\/strong><\/span>Family-style platters of your favorite crostini. Every Wednesday, 5-8:30 p.m. Grotta at Grissini Italian Bistro, Kennebunkport. 967-2211, restaurantgrissini.com<\/p>\n

\n

Tutorial<\/h2>\n

Appleton Creamery<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Two-day workshops for cheeses you can make at home, including jack, mozzarella, and ricotta, as well as butter, using grocery store cow\u2019s milk. Appleton Creamery, Appleton. appletoncreamery.com<\/p>\n

Bayleaf Bistro<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Cooking classes June through September on Wednesdays featuring different international cuisines. Lincolnville. 505-0458, bayleafcottages.com<\/p>\n

Black Tie Bistro<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Classes throughout the year. Topics include truffles\u00a0and brittle, tempeh, risotto, Cajun and Creole, and\u00a0mixology. 761-6665, blacktieco.com<\/p>\n

Caf\u00e9 Miranda<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Chef Kerry Altiero offers Saturday\u00a0cooking classes throughout the year.\u00a0594-2034, cafemiranda.com<\/p>\n

Cellardoor Winery<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Cooking classes throughout the year including \u201cLobster Lovers\u201d and \u201cCooking with a Maine Farmer.\u201d Lincolnville. 763-4478, mainewine.com<\/p>\n

Hartstone Inn<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Chef Michael Salmon offers weekend cooking classes, including Tuscan dishes and gourmet meals on a budget. Camden. 236-4259, hartstoneinn.com<\/p>\n

Maine Culinary Vacations<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Join chef and cookbook author\u00a0Anne Mahle on a several-day windjammer cruise during August,\u00a0with cooking demonstrations on the ship\u2019s wood-burning stove.\u00a0800-869-0604, mainewindjammer.com<\/p>\n

On the marsh bistro
\n<\/strong><\/span>Join Executive Chef Jeffrey Savage, a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner and James Beard presenter, for \u201cAn Insider\u2019s Culinary Class.\u201d May-June, Kennebunk. 967-2299, onthemarsh.com<\/p>\n

Saltwater Farm<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Classes held throughout the year. Topics include home brewing, cassoulet, Catalan cuisine, and cheesemaking. Lincolnville. saltwaterfarm.com<\/p>\n

Stone Turtle Baking and Cooking School<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Classes held throughout the year, with topics that include breads, pies, tarts, and cake decorating. 324-7558, stoneturtlebaking.com<\/p>\n

Ten Apple Farm<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Homesteading workshops offered throughout the year. Topics include cheesemaking, bread-baking, and cleaning and cooking your own duck.\u00a0Gray. tenapplefarm.com<\/p>\n

The White Barn Inn<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Classes held the first and third Thursday of every month from November to April. Kennebunkport. 967-2211, restaurantgrissini.com<\/p>\n

Sharing<\/h2>\n

Feast your eyes and feed your belly during First Friday Art Walks!<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

9 Hands Gallery<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Appetizers\u00a0and\u00a0sparkling\u00a0water.\u00a0615a\u00a0Congress\u00a0St.,\u00a0Portland.\u00a0865-1300,\u00a0ninehandsgallery.com<\/p>\n

Fraser Art Studio<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Appetizers,\u00a0vegan\u00a0options.\u00a081\u00a0Congress\u00a0St.,\u00a0Portland.\u00a0650-3437,\u00a0paintsquared.com<\/p>\n

The Gallery at Harmon\u2019s and Barton\u2019s<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Wine\u00a0and\u00a0appetizers.\u00a0584\u00a0Congress\u00a0St.,\u00a0Portland.\u00a0775-2303,\u00a0harmonsbartons.com<\/p>\n

Mike\u2019s Rock and Roll Sandwich Shop<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Food\u00a0platters.\u00a0437\u00a0Congress\u00a0St.,\u00a0Portland.\u00a0809-5113,\u00a0mikesrockdeli.com<\/p>\n

Maine Historical Society<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Appetizers\u00a0and\u00a0drinks.\u00a0489\u00a0Congress\u00a0St.,\u00a0Portland.\u00a0774-1822,\u00a0mainehistory.org<\/p>\n

Space<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Appetizers.\u00a0538\u00a0Congress\u00a0St.,\u00a0Portland.\u00a0828-5600,\u00a0space538.org<\/p>\n

For Armchair Travel At Its Best<\/h2>\n

Latin Night
\n<\/span>South American and Spanish tapas and wines. March 11, Blue Sky\u00a0on York Beach. 363-0050 for reservations, blueskyonyorkbeach.com<\/p>\n

Dine Around the World<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Over 25 Greater Portland restaurants and caterers offer samples of international hors d\u2019oeuvres, entr\u00e9es, and desserts. Proceeds benefit Gary\u2019s House. March 23.\u00a0400-7169, mercyhospital.com<\/p>\n

Argentinean Wine Dinner<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Featuring cuisine from Chef Mitchell Kaldrovich\u2019s native Argentina during its harvest time. February 24, Sea Glass Restaurant, Inn by the Sea, Cape Elizabeth.\u00a0799-3134, innbythesea.com<\/p>\n

Summer Seductions<\/h2>\n

<\/em><\/p>\n

Bar Harbor Food & Wine Classic<\/strong>
\n<\/span>This nine-day celebration includes wine tastings and dinners featuring local ingredients. 800-328-5033, theharborsidehotel.com<\/p>\n

La Kermesse Franco-American Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Franco-American block party with traditional foods. St. Louis Field, Biddeford. 282-2894, lakermessefestival.com<\/p>\n

Strawberry Festivals<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Maine\u2019s succulent strawberry is honored with shortcakes, berries and cream, chocolate-covered berries, pies, and assorted activities in communities around the state, including South Berwick (June 25, southberwickstrawberryfestival.com), Wells, Oquossoc, Sangerville, Lincolnville, New Gloucester, Washington, Bangor, Boothbay Harbor, Wiscasset, and Locke Mills. Contact local chambers of commerce for additional information.<\/p>\n

Twilight Dinners<\/strong>
\n<\/span>On alternating Thursdays Turkey Hill Farm in Cape Elizabeth offers evening dinners in its orchard, starring food grown on the farm. July-September. 761-4769, cultivatingcommunity.org<\/p>\n

Love Emoticon<\/h2>\n

Valentine\u2019s\u00a0Four-Course\u00a0Dinner<\/strong>
\n<\/span>February\u00a012.\u00a0Sea\u00a0Glass\u00a0Restaurant,\u00a0Inn\u00a0by\u00a0the\u00a0Sea,\u00a0Cape\u00a0Elizabeth.\u00a0799-3134,\u00a0innbythesea.com<\/p>\n

Valentine\u2019s\u00a0Day\u00a0Gourmet<\/strong>
\n<\/span>February\u00a014\u00a0presents\u00a0plenty\u00a0of\u00a0dining\u00a0opportunities\u00a0for\u00a0grubnik\u00a0couples:\u00a0Aphrodisiac\u00a0Tasting\u00a0Menu
\nat\u00a0Hugo\u2019s,\u00a0Portland,\u00a0774-8538,\u00a0hugos.net;\u00a0a\u00a0special\u00a0five-course\u00a0meal\u00a0at\u00a0Five\u00a0Fifty-five,\u00a0Portland,\u00a0761-0555,\u00a0fivefifty-five.com;\u00a0a\u00a0special\u00a0four-course\u00a0meal\u00a0at\u00a0Blue\u00a0Sky,\u00a0York\u00a0Beach,\u00a0363-0050,\u00a0blueskyonyorkbeach.com<\/p>\n

Chocolate\u00a0Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Choose\u00a0a\u00a0dozen\u00a0samples\u00a0from\u00a030\u00a0decadent\u00a0chocolate\u00a0desserts\u00a0at\u00a0this\u00a0family\u00a0festival,\u00a0sponsored\u00a0by
\nMoosehead\u00a0Lake\u2019s\u00a0Chamber\u00a0of\u00a0Commerce.\u00a0February\u00a020,\u00a0Greenville\u2019s\u00a0Masonic\u00a0Hall.
\n695-2702,\u00a0mooseheadlake.org<\/p>\n

Chocolate-Lovers\u2019\u00a0Fling<\/strong>
\n<\/span>An\u00a0afternoon\u00a0of\u00a0chocolate\u00a0delights\u00a0created\u00a0by\u00a0chefs\u00a0and\u00a0chocolatiers\u00a0in\u00a0York\u00a0and\u00a0Cumberland
\nCounties.\u00a0Proceeds\u00a0support\u00a0Sexual\u00a0Assault\u00a0Response\u00a0Services\u00a0of\u00a0Southern\u00a0Maine.\u00a0April\u00a03,
\nHoliday\u00a0Inn\u00a0by\u00a0the\u00a0Bay,\u00a0Portland.\u00a0828-1035,\u00a0chocolateloversfling.org<\/p>\n

Caviar\u00a0Dinner<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Champagne\u00a0and\u00a0caviar\u00a0followed\u00a0by\u00a0a\u00a0fourcourse\u00a0meal\u00a0with\u00a0wine\u00a0and\u00a0caviar\u00a0pairings.
\nCaviar\u00a0expert\u00a0Rod\u00a0Mitchell\u00a0of\u00a0Browne\u00a0Trading\u00a0Company\u00a0will\u00a0be\u00a0on\u00a0hand\u00a0to\u00a0add\u00a0to\u00a0the\u00a0flavor.
\nOctober.775-9090\u00a0,\u00a0portlandharborhotel.com<\/p>\n

Buzz<\/h2>\n

Portland Harbor Hotel Ice Bar<\/strong>
\n<\/span>It\u2019s cool to be cool at this ice bar\u00a0sculpted by artist Jeff Day. Drinks\u00a0and appetizers by new chef \u00a0William (Bill) Clinton. January 27-29.\u00a0775-9090, portlandharborhotel.com<\/p>\n

Lakes Brewfest<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Down beers from more than 20\u00a0different brewers from throughout\u00a0Maine and beyond. September 24,\u00a0Point Sebago Resort, Casco.\u00a0647-3472, mainelakesbrewfest.com<\/p>\n

Acadia\u2019s Oktoberfest
\n<\/strong><\/span>Cheese and wine pairings and\u00a0a brewfest. October 7-8.\u00a0244-9264, acadiaoktoberfest.com<\/p>\n

Brewfest<\/strong>
\nMaine brewers provide a traditional German brewfest. October. York. 363-4422, gatewaytomaine.org<\/p>\n

Brewers\u2019 Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Meet Maine\u2019s award-winning brewmasters and sample their creations. Includes the popular \u201cDinner with the Brewers,\u201d a multi-course meal with beer pairings. November 5, Portland Expo Center. learnyourbeer.com<\/p>\n

Brewers\u2019 Workshop<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Brew a pale ale and learn how to bottle your own home brew. November 29. Morris Farm, Wiscasset.\u00a0882-4080, morrisfarm.org<\/p>\n

Spirit Tastings<\/strong>
\n<\/span>S<\/span>pirit tastings the last Wednesday of every month. The Salt Exchange, Portland. 347-5687, thesaltexchange.net<\/span><\/p>\n

Fall Fantasies<\/h2>\n

Maine Fare<\/strong>
\nA three-day, September celebration of Maine\u2019s culinary harvest with panels, tastings, classes, films, dinners, and a marketplace featuring an array of local artisanal products. Camden. mainefare.com<\/p>\n

Annual Grand View Farm Dinner<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Staffs of Cinque Terre and Vignola jointly create this meal in September. Grand View Farm,\u00a0 Greene. 347-6154, cinqueterremaine.com<\/p>\n

Maine Salmon Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Eastport heats up in September with a community potluck \u201cpie party\u201d featuring savory and sweet pies, a chowder lunch, and a grilled salmon dinner. Other events include a salmon cooking demonstration and juried vendor competition selling smoked salmon and other treats. 853-2300, eastport.net<\/p>\n

Twenty-Mile Meal<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Local culinary superstars craft tastings from ingredients grown, raised, or landed at the Turkey Hill Farm in Cape Elizabeth or within a 20-mile radius. October. 761-4769, cultivatingcommunity.org<\/p>\n

Foliage, Food, and Wine Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Chefs and food producers invite you to sample their best treats on scenic Blue Hill peninsula in mid-October. 374-3242, bluehillpeninsula.org<\/p>\n

Friend Me<\/h2>\n

Maine Whoopie Pie Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Bakers \u201cfrom around the country\u201d share their versions of whoopie pie. June 25, Center Theatre, Dover-Foxcroft. 564-8943, centertheatre.org<\/p>\n

Moxie Festival<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Created by Maine\u2019s own Dr. Augustin Thompson, Moxie is our official soft drink and a cult object for followers who gather for this annual tribute. Includes a contest for the best recipe incorporating Moxie, which was described on its original label like this: \u201cContains not a drop of Medicine, Poison, Stimulant or Alcohol\u2026\u201d July 8-10, Lisbon Falls. moxiefestival.com<\/p>\n

Winepaedia<\/h2>\n

Double Diamond Wine Dinner<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Prestigious French wines expertly paired with a five-course gourmet dinner. February 10, Double Diamond Steakhouse, Sugarloaf. 237-4220<\/p>\n

A Taste of Italy<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Enjoy the best of Italy at this premier event. Four-course dinner with wines pairings, along with expert wine commentary to benefit Cathedral School. February 11, 7 p.m. Maria\u2019s Restaurant, Portland. 772-9232 or 775-1491, cathedralportland.com<\/p>\n

Cellardoor Winery<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Learn to identify and evaluate wine flavors and aromas at a \u201cDemystifying the Wine Experience\u201d class, April 13. Also wine-making classes May 28, June 18, and July 9. Lincolnville. 763-4478, mainewine.com<\/p>\n

Vinfest<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Grape-stomping, homemade wine competition, wine tastings, cellar tours, dinner, and dancing in the vineyard fields. September 30-October 1. Cellardoor Winery, Lincolnville. 763-4478, mainewine.com<\/p>\n

Wine Camp<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Learning vacation features hands-on wine-making education at Cellardoor Winery in Lincolnville, a cooking class with Lawrence Klang, chef de cuisine at Camden Harbour Inn, a four-day stay at the inn, and a take-home wine-making kit. Mid-October. 800-236-4266, camdenharbourinn.com, mainewine.com<\/p>\n

Sips to Savor
\nWine Tastings<\/h2>\n

Black Cherry Provisions<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Every second Saturday, 2-5 p.m. Falmouth.\u00a0781-5656, blackcherrymaine.com<\/p>\n

Browne Trading Company<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Every third Thursday, 5-7 p.m. Portland.\u00a0775-7560, brownetrading.com<\/p>\n

Havana South<\/strong>
\n<\/span>\u201c$10 for 10\u201d wine tastings every third Wednesday, 5:30-8 p.m. Portland. 772-9988, havanamaine.com<\/p>\n

Old Port Wine Merchants<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Every third Wednesday, 4-7:30 p.m. Portland.\u00a0772-9463, oldportwine.com<\/p>\n

RSVP<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Every second Wednesday, 4-7 p.m.\u00a0Portland. 773-8808<\/p>\n

West End Deli & Catering<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Every first Friday, 6-8 p.m. Portland.\u00a0874-6426, thewestenddeli.com<\/p>\n

Wine Wise Tastings<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Organized tastings at different venues throughout the year. 619-4630, winewiseevents.com<\/p>\n

Hungry Holidays<\/h2>\n

<\/span>Christmas by the Sea<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Ogunquit\u2019s holiday merriment features chowder and chocolate fests. 649-2939, ogunquit.org<\/p>\n

Use the link below to send us your listings.
\n\"Bookmark<\/a><\/p>\n

send us your comments<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Winterguide 2011
\nGet your plate out of the past and back to the future. How? Ditch the stuffy 1980s “foodie” label and get ready for some lip-smacking fun right here in Maine.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3585","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-featured"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3585","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3585"}],"version-history":[{"count":29,"href":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3585\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3674,"href":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3585\/revisions\/3674"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3585"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3585"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.portlandmonthly.com\/portmag\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3585"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}