Local Flavor: A seaside favorite reopening and a free community dinner
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A cocktail enjoyed with a view of the beach at Joseph's by the Sea. SBN FILE PHOTO
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When Joseph’s By the Sea suffered damage in a July fire, I reported the news with a heavy heart.
Joseph’s, at 55 West Grand Ave. in Old Orchard Beach, is a special place. The restaurant is typically open from late spring to mid-December, serving seafood, filet mignon, sandwiches, crepes, omelets and other American cuisine.
Sitting at the roof-top patio is like no other dining experience, providing a relaxing atmosphere with a beachfront view of the ocean. I live just across town, but when sitting at Joseph’s patio drinking a cocktail or enjoying a meal, I feel like I’m on vacation.
Many of us locals, and many tourists as well, have been anxiously awaiting news of the restaurant’s opening. Owners Scott and Barbara McCrum, who bought the restaurant in late 2020, announced recently on social media that the restaurant will be open in May.
“We are targeting the first week of May for opening and will firm up dates as we get closer. We thank you for your patience and look forward to seeing each of you soon,” said the McCrums in a Facebook post.
Best of luck, and given the number of positive and encouraging comments on the Facebook post, many people are rooting for Joseph’s and look forward to the restaurant’s return.
Free Community Dinner on Sunday
In the mean time, there’s a seat at the table for you at OOB 365’s Free Community Dinner from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. this Sunday, March 20 at the American Legion Hall, 14 Imperial St. Old Orchard Beach.
The local non-profit is known for its events that bring community members together, and their free dinners are always popular – and delicious. Sunday’s dinner will feature an Italian theme with a menu that includes lasagna, tortellini, and stuffed breads. Come hungry and save room for dessert because there’s a dessert bar that event organizers say will “leave you weak in the knees.”
Liz Gotthelf is the publisher of Saco Bay News. She also loves to eat – and support local businesses. If you have any local restaurant or food news, she’d love to hear from you. Send her an email at [email protected].