A welcome surprise and locals favorite
Bake Maine is a hidden gem that I stumbled upon earlier this year while searching for a cup of coffee and a delicious treat. From the moment I walked in, I instantly fell in love with the place. Today, I had the pleasure of meeting the owners, Kristen and Doug, a passionate husband and wife team who are dedicated to delivering awesome food. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Bake Maine so special.
A Passion for Scratch Pastry
Kristen, one of the owners, shared with me that Bake Maine opened its doors at the end of January. They specialize in scratch pastry, with a focus on French pastries. Kristen has been baking for as long as she can remember, starting from her childhood. She even began working in kitchens at the young age of 14 and has never looked back. Prior to opening Bake Maine, Kristen and Doug ran a couple of bakeries in Wells, Maine, their hometown. When the opportunity to have their own place came up, they jumped at the chance.
French Pastries and Savory Delights
When it comes to customer favorites, the French pastries at Bake Maine are a hit. Kristen’s expertise shines through in her delicious croissants, brioche, tarts, and French chaperon. On the savory side, their breakfast sandwiches are a must-try. They also offer a specialty item called “old biscuits,” which are a unique and tasty treat.
Two Specialties, One Team
With two owners at Bake Maine, each has their own specialty. Kristen takes care of all the sweet treats and pastries, while Doug handles the savory side of things, including breakfast and lunch sandwiches, soups, and salads. Together, they create a well-rounded menu that caters to all tastes.
A Blend of Art and Food
As I sat down with Kristen and Doug, I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful pottery displayed throughout the cafe. Kristen explained that the building was previously owned by the Portland Pottery Studio, and when they took over, they decided to continue showcasing local artists’ work. The pottery adds a unique and artistic touch to the space, and everything is available for purchase.
Supporting Local Artists
Bake Maine is committed to supporting local artists and is always on the lookout for new talent to display their work. They have some empty walls that are waiting to be adorned with beautiful creations. If you’re a local artist looking for a place to showcase your art, Bake Maine could be the perfect spot for you.
Making a Breakfast Biscuit Sandwich
After our conversation, Doug invited me to join him in making one of their popular breakfast biscuit sandwiches. We started by choosing sausage as the meat for the sandwich. Doug then expertly cooked the biscuit on the griddle, ensuring it was golden brown and delicious. The biscuits are made fresh every day, adding to the overall quality of the sandwich.
A Passion Passed Down Doug’s passion for cooking and baking stems from his mother, who instilled in her a love for the culinary arts from a young age. Her mother always emphasized the importance of knowing how to cook, and Doug and Kristen learned the ropes early on. This passion and dedication to creating delicious food is evident in every bite at Bake Maine.
In conclusion,
Bake Maine is a delightful bakery and cafe that offers a wide range of scratch pastries, French delicacies, and savory delights. Kristen and Doug, the owners, have poured their hearts and souls into creating a warm and inviting space where customers can enjoy delicious food and support local artists. Whether you’re in the mood for a flaky croissant or a mouthwatering breakfast sandwich, Bake Maine is the place to be. So next time you’re in the area, be sure to stop by and experience the magic of this hidden gem for yourself.
