Oh, Food: A few old and new favorite Maine eateries

Well friends, it's been a while! I returned to the woods a couple of days ago after a refreshing stay with family and friends. I was happy to be able to visit the Old Port for the first time in three years...it had been too long!

I am not a girl who likes to shop. Take me to a mall or a Walmart, and I immediately become overwhelmed and uneasy. Overload! There is a reason why I shop at Machias Hardware and Hannaford in my hometown before coming back to Clayton Lake. I know where everything is and I know the names and faces of people who work there. I like to keep it as simple and familiar as possible. As far as clothes shopping goes, if I'm being honest, there's no reason why I need to go shopping until I leave Clayton lake because my daily outfits consist of flannel pajamas, my husband's socks, and a baggy t-shirt or comfy sweatshirt. Isn't that what we all wear when we stay at camp?? Sorry, husband. :)

Oh the bread....and butter....

I AM a girl who LOVES to eat. When I think of Portland, I do not think shopping. I think FOOD. Fore Street is one of my favorites, and is a must for me when in Southern Maine. An old brick building with an open kitchen, wood burning ovens, and dim lighting gives off an old fashioned tavern vibe like no other. When walking on the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, you know you're getting close when the heavenly combination of wood, fire, food, and ocean fills your senses. Local, fresh, and delicious food...every single time!

I've been following the Holy Donut on Facebook for weeks now. Not sure why I do that to myself when they post mouth watering picturesevery day. I'm not exactly a stone's throw away to be able to go grab a couple of their donuts! When you walk in and see the simple mouthwatering display of fresh donuts.....it's a little hard to choose just one. The bacon cheddar stuffed donut....oh goodness. Salty, creamy, and a hint of sweetness. And they are made with a bit of Maine....Maine potato in every bite!

Visited Local 188 for the first time and it was delicious! Loved the atmosphere and the local, fresh food. Pickled quail eggs, strawberry margarita with jalapeno infused tequila, parsnip cream risotto, delicious hummus with fresh pita bread....noms.

I couldn't go back to the woods without stopping (several times) at my favorite diner in my hometown. Homemade éclairs, thin shaved Pastrami, crispy haddock burger...just a few of my favorites at Helen's Restaurant in Machias. My only regret was that my strawberries were not slathered in the same rich chocolate that coats the éclair.

So.....I know this is a little different than most of my posts, but most likely, it will not be the last time you hear me rant about food. Happy eating, friends!