Local Flavor: Boka Fresh Kitchen

OLD ORCHARD BEACH – Many of us in Old Orchard Beach have been wondering what was going into the old China Eatery building at 5 Ocean Park Road.

Well, the wait is over. With a newly renovated building painting a bright sunny yellow, Boka Fresh Kitchen opened yesterday at the former Chinese restaurant.

Boka Fresh Kitchen specializes in bowls and paninis. They have a menu of signature items, including a Mexican bowl, Thai bowl, sweet and sour panini and Italian panini. There is also a veggie option for both the bowls and the paninis, and paninis are served on fresh-baked bread.

Patrons can also customize their bowls to their liking with a “build your own,” option, selecting from a variety of grains and salads for the base, and completing it with their choice of proteins (including vegetarian options), fresh vegetables, toppings and sauces.

“We serve healthy food, but also want to have something for everyone,” said owner Michelle Ayala.

Ayala is a first-time business owner, but she’s no stranger to the hospitality scene. Her father owns four Mexican restaurants, and she’s worked in restaurants for several years, performing many duties, including management.

Boka also offers a rotating selection of fresh drinks made in-store, such as lemonade and hibiscus tea. There is a seating area with about five tables, but the restaurant is primarily takeout.  Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

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 newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.