From bittersweet closings to delicious debuts and a scoop of Philly “wooder ice,” 2025 was a year of change for Maine’s dining scene.
To refresh your memory — and taste buds — here’s a rundown of the year’s 10 most-read Friday Food Insider stories:
Friday Food Insider: Portland distillery closes; Portland Wine Week on pause
Friday Food Insider: A Portland neighborhood cafe will close after 3 months
Friday Food Insider: James Beard awards names 10 Maine semifinalists
Friday Food Insider: Lewiston restaurant closes after just 18 months
Friday Food Insider: Amid challenging times for brewers, Mast Landing seeks ways to stand out
Friday Food Insider: Donut shop closing, burger spot opening in Portland’s shifting restaurant scene
Friday Food Insider: Founder of two Japanese restaurants in Portland to open another this fall
Friday Food Insider: Philly natives bring ‘water ice’ to Waterville
Friday Food Insider: A taste of Portugal comes to Portland’s East End
Looking ahead
The Friday Food Insider returns Jan. 9 with a fresh serving of stories to savor. Have a restaurant, trend or tip for our coverage in 2026? Drop a line to Alexis Wells at awells@mainebiz.biz.
Until then, wishing you a holiday season filled with tasty treats and sweet moments with loved ones.