Kittery Wine Bar has opened at 10 Walker St. in Kittery Foreside, bringing an independently owned wine bar and retail shop to the downtown district.
The wine bar is owned by Katie Howard-Smith and her husband, Jody Smith, who relocated to the Seacoast during the pandemic. It is located at 10 Walker St. in Kittery in the former Kit & Co. children's clothing store, which closed in January.
The goal
For Howard-Smith, the opening is a goal years in the making. After nearly two decades working in journalism and media sales, she pursued professional wine certifications while working in wine retail and education before deciding to open her own wine bar.
Owners Katie Howard-Smith and Jody Smith. PHOTO / COURTESY KITTERY WINE BAR
Howard-Smith's sister, Sadie Bell, who previously worked in New York City's restaurant and bar industry, helped bring the business to life. And the area is a key ingredient.
"We fell in love with this community," said Howard-Smith. "The people, the small businesses, the incredible food scene, the coastline, there was something really special here."
The owners said they prioritized hiring Seacoast residents and partnering with Maine farmers, artisans and producers. The space also showcased local art, including an exterior mural by Maine artist Sophia LaBlanc.
About the menu
The neighborhood wine bar will offer wines by the glass and by the bottle, cheese, charcuterie boards, coastal-inspired small plates, tinned seafood, local craft beer, cider, non-alcoholic beverages and a Sunday brunch menu.
In addition to the on-site dining, customers can shop a retail selection of wines, beer, specialty foods and gifts.
The wine bar will be open Thursday through Saturday, from 4 to 10 p.m. Sunday brunch will offered from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Reader feedback
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