Freeport Public Market, Nova Star, Salt Opening

1) Freeport: Opening today at noon at 20 Bow Street, the Freeport Public Market is a collection of food businesses "anchored by an Amato's restaurant," with Kamasouptra, Peachy's Smoothie and Juice Bar, and Café Crêpe in kiosks. Kamasouptra started in the Portland Public Market House, while Cafe Crepe's food truck split time between Moosehead and Portland, now returning to Moosehead for the summer. The original Peachy's location is in Yarmouth. The Market should be open 7 days a week from 8am-9pm.

2) Ferry Wire: Providing a renewed link between the coasts of Canada and Maine, the Nova Star ferry service begins today. The ship was welcomed to Portland's Ocean Gateway Terminal yesterday morning with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, after which guests toured the facilities and sampled fare from Fathoms Buffet, one of six dining and drink venues aboard. An informal consensus held that the Asian-inspired dishes were the highlight of the meal, and the spicy options were mild enough for most palates. According to staff, local food, wine, and craft beer from Maine and Nova Scotia will feature heavily in dining options; there are also plans to host a series of cooking workshops on board with local chefs.

3) Vinalhaven: Portland Press Herald profiles new Vinalhaven restaurant Salt in anticipation of its soft opening this weekend. Salt will source local ingredients out of a desire to buy local but also "out of necessity," according to chef-owner Jeff Feingold, due to the remote nature of the island. Describing his plans to keep the restaurant open even during the off season, Feingold asserts that he hopes "to serve the island population." The grand opening is set for Memorial Day weekend.
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