Features
Good Maine Food
Aside from the lordly lobster, Maine has never been thought of much in terms of food and dining. But Mainers themselves are seeking out new flavors in local markets, an array of imaginative restaurants now caters to residents and visitors alike, and a whole new industry is being built around specialty foods. At the same time, the rest of the world suddenly seems to have begun to recognize that good Maine food is often as good as food gets. In this special Annual issue, the Editors of Down East take a look at the foods Mainers eat and talk about today.
New Maine Flavors
Clever cooks from York to Presque Isle are beginning to make big bucks serving up specialty foods to a ravenous market — and the state is finally paying attention. By Jeff Clark.
Adventures in Dining Down East
A host of tips on where to go for memorable meals — from the sublime to the outrageous.
Mainers and Molasses
Down East cooks still favor the age-old sweetener, according to food historian Sandra Oliver, and that’s just one of our peculiarities when it comes to eating. By Ellen MacDonald Ward.
Legendary Maine Recipes
Some dishes never go out of style, whether they’re prepared as they always have been or gussied up a bit. Proof of the pudding lies in this collection of tantalizing recipes from cookbooks currently in print. By Winnie White.
Soul Food
A stalwart part of the Maine scene, public suppers feed the spirit as well as the body. Photographs by Tonee Harbert.
Platemate of the Month
Her name is Bambi, and she holds the distinction of being the first centerfold in the history of Down East Magazine. Styled and photographed by Benjamin Magro.
Food with a View
At some Maine restaurants the scenery is every bit as delicious as the fare, as a handful of examples suggests. Photographs by Benjamin Magro.
The Mother Church
That’s how baked-bean worshippers from all over see the landmark B&M Baked Beans factory in downtown Portland. Few ever learn just what goes on inside. By Patrick Morris.
Bonbon Bonanza
From one end of the state to the other, candymakers cater to the sweet tooth that Maine seems to bring out in everyone. Photograph by Amazeen.
Departments
Room With A View
Maine people, as a general thing, are not socially promiscuous and prefer to eat at home except on special occasions. By Caskie Stinnett.
The Talk of Maine
Bananas for Brunswick
Inside Maine
Prime Picnic Places
Down East Bookshelf
Essential Maine Cookbooks
Calendar of Events
Food Fests
What’s in a Picture?
Sweetest of Seasons
Cover: Hurricane Restaurant, Perkins Cove, Ogunquit, one of the most highly regarded bistros in Maine. Photograph by Benjamin Magro.