Places: Waterville, Maine
The scoop…
After visiting with a friend who lives in the Waterville area I felt compelled to write about this city slice of Maine. Tucked into the west bank of the beautiful Kennebec River lies the city of Waterville. Once a former thriving textile mill town it was gradually forced into a progressive rebirth that was necessary to embrace the changing winds of times. Waterville holds a fascinating history which is very well chronicled by Stephen Plocher. He details the rise, fall and perseverance of this old and interesting city. A highly recommended read, especially for you history buffs.
Currently Waterville has an emerging and interesting downtown that hosts many great eating venues and local artisans. You will find many beautiful old historic and majestic homes here as well as the struggling neighborhoods of those who work to keep the heartbeat of the city pumping. Waterville is the host to Thomas and Colby Colleges which add to the diversity, culture and flavor of the city. Colby College is located on gorgeous Mayflower Hill and hosts a spectacular Art Museum with collections specializing in Contemporary and American art along with other great select collections. To make it even better, Colby’s Art Museum is free and open to the public.
Some great go to’s beside wonderful eats, an interesting downtown and a visit to the Colby Art Museum are The Ticonic Footbridge, affectionately know as The Two Cent Bridge, then a hike, walk, ski, or jog on the Quarry Road Trails, maybe go to a show at the Waterville Opera House (Central Maine’s cultural hub established in1902), and finally making your way to the Railroad Square Cinema to see some great independent flicks.
Whatever you do, if you are in the vicinity please give Waterville a look. It is a grand old New England lady, You will be disappointed!
Just two of my favorite Waterville eating venues out of many!
18 Below
You will not forget this venue, promise! Enter on the street level and go 18 steps below to the basement and enter a great space to begin your eating adventure. Quality and creativity abounds here with a full bar and a menu that dreams are made of featuring a raw seafood bar with daily fresh oyster selections, fresh traditional seafood dishes, meats and pasta specials. Changing menu daily, food expertly and creatively prepared by a staff of culinary school graduates. Go for a walk down under!
Holi Cannoli
You may think you are in the North End of Boston or maybe in Little Italy in NYC, as you peruse their extraordinary array of magnificent Italian pastries and more, but you are waaaay north of those locations. This a gem of an Italian bakery, firmly planted on Main Street in the evolving downtown of Waterville, Maine. All who cherish authentic, made from scratch Italian pastries, sandwiches and a joyful, caring staff should run, not walk to the blessed Holi Cannoli! Whenever I think about Holi Cannoli my heart yearns for their traditional cannoli and an eggplant parmesan sub! Bravo!
