The New England Palate's Editor’s Choice

 Celebrating Maine’s Local Businesses - Cafe Luna

Nestled in the charming town of coastal town of Scarborough, ME, Cafe Luna is more than just a coffee shop—it’s an experience. Located at 370 US Route 1 Scarborough, ME 04074, this hidden gem offers a cozy ambiance, locally sourced ingredients, and a menu that seamlessly blends comfort and creativity.

 It’s no wonder that Luna Cafe has earned the title of The New England Palate’s Editor’s Choice for January 2025.

From the moment you step inside, the warmth of Luna Cafe envelops you. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the scent of house-made smoothies fill the room, creating an irresistible invitation to stay awhile. The space itself is a fairly spacious, making it an ideal spot for both quiet mornings and lively gatherings.

But it’s not just the ambiance that makes Cafe Luna stand out—it’s the food. Every dish tells a story, celebrating the rich flavors of Maine while incorporating global influences. 

Whether it’s an exceptional selection of sandwiches, served on your choice of ciabatta, sourdough, marble rye, parm & sage, wheat, or gluten-free, there's multiple choices to choose from. 

Beyond the menu, Cafe Luna prides itself on being a community hub. 

 If you haven’t yet visited this gem in Scarborough, make it a priority. 

Congratulations to Cafe Luna on being The New England Palate’s first Editor’s Choice of 2025! We can’t wait to see what delicious creations they serve up next.

Celebrating Maine’s Local Businesses - O'Reilly's Cure

O'Reilly's Cure, a beloved restaurant and bar located at 264 US Route 1 in Scarborough, Maine, has recently been honored with the Editors' Choice Award by The New England Palate. This recognition underscores the establishment's commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences that resonate with both locals and visitors alike.​

The New England Palate, a reputable platform dedicated to showcasing the region's culinary gems, highlighted O'Reilly's Cure in a feature last month. The article praised the restaurant's inviting atmosphere and delectable menu offerings, stating, "If you haven't ever been to O'Reilly's Cure you are so missing out! It's great food, great atmosphere, and just a yummy experience all the way around." ​

Established with the vision of creating a communal space where guests can relish quality food and drinks, O'Reilly's Cure offers an eclectic American menu infused with Irish fare and a touch of Korean spice. The bar boasts 16 beers on tap, including local selections, complemented by a variety of wines and specialty cocktails. ​

O'Reilly's Cure

The recent accolade from The New England Palate adds to the restaurant's growing list of commendations. Patrons have consistently lauded the establishment for its friendly staff and diverse menu. One reviewer noted, "We love the food and service at O'Reilly's Cure. The food is always great, with great options. And the service is always friendly too." ​

Tripadvisor

For those interested in experiencing the award-winning offerings of O'Reilly's Cure, the restaurant operates with the following hours:​

Monday–Thursday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM​

Friday–Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM​

Sunday Brunch: 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM​

Reservations can be conveniently made through their official website at www.oreillyscure.com.​

This Editors' Choice Award serves as a testament to O'Reilly's Cure's dedication to culinary excellence and its role as a cherished dining destination in the New England region.​

Celebrating Maine’s Local Businesses -

St. Joe's Cafe

St. Joe's Cafe, located at 220 Gorham Road in Scarborough, Maine, has been honored with the March 2025 Editors' Choice Award by The New England Palate. 

This esteemed recognition highlights the cafe's dedication to exceptional culinary offerings and its significant role in the local dining scene.​

Renowned for its signature sandwiches, St. Joe's Cafe offers a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. 

Among the standout items is the Turkey A.B.L.T., featuring sliced turkey, avocado spread, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and homemade chipotle dressing. The cafe also offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring inclusivity for all patrons. ​

St. Joes Cafe

Tripadvisor

The cafe's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has garnered praise from both critics and patrons. 

One reviewer noted, "The absolute best breakfast sandwiches on homemade biscuits. Easy to get to go or enjoy eating in at the cafe." ​

St. Joe's Cafe operates with the following hours:​

Monday–Saturday: 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM​

Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM​

This Editors' Choice Award from The New England Palate underscores St. Joe's Cafe's unwavering dedication to culinary excellence and its cherished status within the New England community.​

Editor’s Choice: The Cheese Iron – A Gourmet Haven in Scarborough, ME
By The New England Palate

Tucked along Route 1 in Scarborough, Maine, The Cheese Iron isn’t just a specialty food store—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, community, and culinary passion. Since its founding, The Cheese Iron has become a beloved stop for locals and travelers alike, offering an exceptional array of artisan cheeses, gourmet provisions, and handcrafted sandwiches that reflect Maine’s rich food culture.

From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by the warm aroma of aged cheeses mingling with freshly baked bread and house-roasted meats. The heart of the store is its cut-to-order cheese counter, where knowledgeable staff help customers explore flavors from across the globe, alongside standout regional cheeses that deserve the spotlight. Whether you're seeking the creamy tang of a French brie or the nutty complexity of a Maine cheddar, The Cheese Iron delivers with care and precision.

But cheese is just the beginning. Their curated wine selection, and some non-alcoholic winethoughtful pantry offerings, and scratch-made deli menu make this destination a full-sensory experience. It’s the kind of place where a quick lunch turns into an exploration of flavor—from their famously stacked sandwiches to daily soups and seasonal salads. Each item is made with the same dedication to quality that’s earned them accolades across New England.

What truly sets The Cheese Iron apart, however, is the spirit behind it. Owners and staff embody a hospitality that makes every customer feel like part of the family. Whether you’re picking up a quick picnic for Higgins Beach or assembling a board for a holiday celebration, their expertise and enthusiasm ensure you leave inspired—and well-fed.

At The New England Palate, we’re proud to name The Cheese Iron our Editor’s Choice, celebrating its commitment to excellence and its place as a cornerstone of Maine’s gourmet landscape. Stop in, savor the experience, and discover why this little shop has become such a big part of Scarborough’s culinary identity.