Photo: Krista Cole, Owner (Left) & Mimi Weissenborn, Chef (Right)

Gather offers a farm-to-table dining experience focused on bold flavors and fresh, local ingredients. From the creative minds that also bring you Sur Lie, Gather is owned by Krista Cole, a two times James Beard Award semi-finalist, and helmed by Chef Mimi Weissenborn, a Top Chef competitor. This woman led restaurant has earned widespread acclaim for its culinary excellence and creativity.

Photo: Co-Owners of Big Tree Hospitality, Andrew Taylor (Left) & Arlin Smith (Right)

Big Tree Hospitality is a hospitality group known for its exceptional restaurants like Eventide and The Honey Paw, and their commitment to showcasing the best of local ingredients. The James Beard Award winning team has earned numerous accolades for its culinary excellence, innovation, dedication to sustainability, and ability to highlight New England’s bounty.

Photo: Jake Stevens, Chef & Owner of Leeward

Nestled in Portland’s vibrant culinary scene, Leeward offers a captivating blend of Italian and coastal Maine cuisine, expertly crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Since opening in 2020, Leeward has received multiple James Beard Award nominations, including two consecutive nominations for Best Chef of the Northeast. Whether you’re enjoying fresh pasta or creative seasonal dishes, every meal at Leeward is an unforgettable experience.

Photo: Neil Zabriskie, Chef & Owner of Regards

Neil Zabriskie, chef and owner of Regards Restaurant, in Portland, Maine, shares his passion for coastal cuisine infused with Mexican and Japanese techniques and flavors.

Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Neil developed his love for cooking in the vibrant food scene of LA. Seeking further culinary education and experience, he made his way to New York City, where he spent 12 years honing his skills in Spanish and Japanese restaurants. He relocated to Maine with the goal of opening his own restaurant. After working in the Portland community for several years; making connections with local farmers, fishermen and purveyors, he opened Regards.

In 2022, Bon Appétit Magazine included Regards on their list of ‘Top 50 Best New Restaurants’, which helped to launch Neil’s status as a culinary force. Neil’s talent and dedication has led him to receive numerous accolades, most recently he was recognized as a star chef of New England and named a “Chef to Watch” in 2023 by Plate Magazine.

Photo: Mike Carney, Executive Chef of EVO 

Experience the dynamic flavors of EVO Kitchen + Bar, where the award-winning team blends Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines into fresh, unforgettable dishes. Located in the heart of Portland, Maine, EVO offers a vibrant atmosphere, exceptional service, and a menu that celebrates bold, locally sourced ingredients.