The Kennebec Explorer 2015 Visitor's Guide to Maine's Kennebec Valley | Page 24

Eat, Drink and Be Merry
Photo by: Tom McPherson Photography
Leave it to Mainers to find a way to make a meal out of virtually
anything, and while there are far too many foodie things for us
to serve up, we have selected a few tasty things that are worth
looking into when you visit Maine’s Kennebec Valley.
Breakfast: One of Our Three Favorite Meals
We tend to like our diners here, and we have done a good job
of keeping this eating tradition alive. Some great diners include
the Purple Cow and the Flatlanda in Fairfield. Dave’s Diner is
a classic in Gardiner, and while you’re there stop in at Frosty’s
for a sinfully delicious donut. The Downtown Diner in Augusta
gets started early, too. Wherever you land, you can count on
having freshly baked pie; go for the blueberry, always.
Lunchtime Favorites.
The China Dine-ah offers reliably yummy takes on traditional
diner fare. Looking for a perfect sandwich on a bagel? Head into
Augusta and stop by Bagel Mainea. Delish. We recommend
checking out Augusta’s Red Barn for some great fried seafood.
If you are in the mood for a sandwich, Day’s Store in Belgrade
satisfies, as do Kel-Mat or the Pickup Café in Skowhegan.
If you’d rather grab a hot dog, look for The Hott Dogg House
in Augusta or Bolley’s Famous Franks in either Hallowell or
Waterville. We also like the Maine Barbecue Co. in Windsor.
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Road Notes on Places to Stop
Try Thompson’s in Bingham: you can blow by this place and
never think twice unless it’s mealtime, because then the street
is all parked up. Kniffin’s Custom Meats and Smokehouse on
Route 201 in Anson is the place to stop for some of the best
chops and bacon, and it is right down the road from Maine
Maple Products. Selah Tea Café in Waterville is a refreshing
stop. Take a break and have a “cuppa” with a friend and just
slow down at this in-town oasis.
Dinner in Waterville: Satisfaction Guaranteed
Waterville has been attracting some real talent over the past
few years, and now it’s all coming together. Here are notes
from foodie insiders on five great picks for a meal out in
Waterville. 18 Below topped more than one person’s list;
don’t miss out on their freshly prepared fish and meat dishes.
But especially the fish. Joseph’s Fireside is a great meal,
well prepared and fun. Mainely Brews is a pub-style place
worth waiting in line for. Silver Street Tavern offers a tasty
and eclectic menu. Finally, Buen Apetito is churning out
delicious Mexican food in a casual atmosphere (their sauces
are bona fide delicious). Bonus: Barrels Market attracts a
local, kinda crunchy crowd, but their menu is worth
swinging by for a tasty takeaway lunch.