Rather belatedly, RTT and I decided to whip up to Portland, Maine (I specify 'Maine' because my Mummy was slightly confused thinking we were jetting to Portland, Oregon instead) for the 4th of July weekend. Failing to plan a trip to the Cape or Nantucket in advance, Portland seemed like an adequate, WASP-y Americana hang out that we could handle at the last minute (it's only 90 minutes away).We stayed at the lovely and comfortable Portland Harbor Hotel and spent the day perusing the shops and galleries around the downtown district. Rather typically, we also enjoyed a fried fish lunch on the water where RTT insisted on dining 'collars up.'
For our Happy Birthday, America dinner we celebrated at the amazing Fore Street bistro. Oh my! It had a rustic, Zuni-esque interior complete with copper detailing throughout and a hearth oven (be still, my beating heart). Naturally, my concerns were the bread (warm, delicious and the butter was like a drug) and the bathrooms (top-notch) but mostly, the food was divine! I am still dreaming about the Mussels and Tim's pasta appetizer...RTT raved about the wine list as well in which I happily partook. We left more than 3 hours later in shock and awe of our culinary discovery.
For brunch the next day we went to the local Mim's, lured in by the candy-colored sun umbrellas and beach-y decor. After a short wait and some (two) Bloody Mary's, RTT and I enjoyed our Eggs Benny, of course, in the summer-y morning sun on the upstairs deck. And, while their bathrooms left something (ok, a lot) to be desired, the meal was yummy and somehow calming.
Needless to say, we did not hit all our hot spot required stops so we will be back to Portland as soon as we can manage!
Perhaps for another Happy Birthday, America dinner...?
