Imagine a place where comfort food reigns supreme and the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air.
Welcome to Governor’s Restaurant & Bakery in Old Town, Maine – a local institution that’s been serving up hearty meals and sweet treats for decades.
Folks, let me tell you about a little slice of heaven I stumbled upon in the heart of Maine.
It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve just walked into your grandmother’s kitchen – if your grandmother happened to be feeding an entire town.
Governor’s Restaurant & Bakery in Old Town isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a time machine that transports you back to simpler days when calories didn’t count and portion sizes were measured by the “that’ll do” method.
As I approached the building, I couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight that greeted me.
There, standing proudly outside, was a larger-than-life statue of what I can only describe as the restaurant’s mascot – a dapper gentleman with a top hat and a welcoming grin.
I half expected him to tip his hat and offer me a menu.
But alas, he remained stoically silent, leaving the warm greetings to the flesh-and-blood staff inside.
Stepping through the doors, I was immediately enveloped in an atmosphere that can only be described as “cozy chaos.”
The buzz of conversation, the clinking of cutlery, and the occasional burst of laughter created a symphony of small-town charm.
The decor is a delightful mishmash of Americana, with wood paneling that’s probably seen more presidential administrations than the White House itself.
I couldn’t help but feel like I’d wandered onto the set of a 1950s sitcom – minus the laugh track, of course.
The menu at Governor’s is a veritable novel of comfort food classics.
It’s the kind of menu that makes you want to loosen your belt before you’ve even ordered.
As I perused the options, I couldn’t help but feel like I was reading a love letter to carbohydrates.
Breakfast is served all day here, because apparently, the folks at Governor’s understand that sometimes you need pancakes at 3 PM on a Tuesday.
Who am I to argue with such wisdom?
The “Governor’s Big Breakfast Combo” caught my eye – a feast fit for, well, a governor.
Two eggs any style, strips of bacon, sausage links, home fries, and either halves of French toast or pancakes.
It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you want to cancel your plans for the rest of the day and take a nap.
But let’s not forget about the star of the show – the bakery.
Oh, the bakery.
As soon as you walk in, you’re hit with the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked goods.
It’s like being hugged by the Pillsbury Doughboy, but in a good way.
The display case is a treasure trove of sugary delights.
Pies, cakes, cookies, and pastries of all shapes and sizes beckon to you, each one seeming to whisper, “Diet? What diet?”
I’m pretty sure I gained five pounds just looking at them.
But hey, when in Rome – or in this case, Old Town – right?
Now, let’s talk about the main courses.
Governor’s doesn’t mess around when it comes to hearty meals.
Their menu boasts an array of comfort food classics that would make any cardiologist nervously adjust their tie.
Take the “Old Fashioned Corned Beef Hash,” for instance.
It’s a mountain of crispy, savory goodness that comes with two eggs any style and a slice of their signature toast.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to grow a handlebar mustache and take up lumberjacking.
And let me tell you, this isn’t your average, run-of-the-mill hash.
This is the Everest of breakfast dishes, the kind that makes you question all your life choices – in the best way possible.
Each forkful is a journey through texture and flavor, with crispy bits mingling with tender corned beef in a dance of deliciousness.
The eggs perch on top like two sunny lifeguards, ready to dive into the meaty waves below.
And that toast?
It’s not just any old bread.
It’s the perfect vehicle for mopping up every last morsel, ensuring not a single crumb escapes your plate.
It’s the breakfast of champions, lumberjacks, and anyone who believes that the most important meal of the day should also be the most delicious.
For those looking for something a little lighter (and by “lighter,” I mean “slightly less likely to induce a food coma”), Governor’s offers a selection of omelets that could easily double as small throw pillows.
The “Philly Steak Omelet” is a particular favorite, stuffed with shaved steak, onions, peppers, and cheddar cheese.
It’s like Philadelphia decided to vacation in Maine and brought its A-game.
But wait, there’s more!
Because apparently, Governor’s believes that the key to happiness is having too many delicious options to choose from.
Their lunch and dinner menus are equally impressive, featuring everything from classic burgers to seafood specialties.
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The “Governor’s Famous Chicken Pot Pie” is a local legend.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to write a thank-you note to whoever invented pastry.
Flaky crust, creamy filling, chunks of tender chicken – it’s comfort food at its finest.
I’m pretty sure I saw someone hugging their plate after finishing it.
Can’t blame them, really.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – or should I say, the moose?
This is Maine, after all.
Governor’s doesn’t shy away from embracing its New England roots.
You’ll find plenty of seafood options on the menu, from fried clams to haddock fillets.
And yes, there’s lobster.
Because you can’t come to Maine and not have lobster.
That’s like going to Italy and skipping the pasta.
It’s just not done.
The “Lobster Roll” at Governor’s is a thing of beauty.
Chunks of sweet lobster meat, lightly dressed and nestled in a toasted roll.
It’s the kind of sandwich that makes you want to pack up your things, move to the coast, and become a lobster fisherman.
Or at least befriend one.
But let’s not forget about the unsung heroes of any good meal – the sides.
Governor’s doesn’t treat sides as an afterthought.
Oh no, they give them the respect they deserve.
The home fries are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside – the Goldilocks of potato dishes.
And don’t even get me started on the baked beans.
They’re the kind of beans that make you wonder why you ever bothered with the canned variety.
As I sat there, surrounded by the warm glow of contentment (and possibly the early stages of a food coma), I couldn’t help but marvel at the sense of community in this place.
Families chatted over stacks of pancakes, friends caught up over slices of pie, and solo diners found comfort in a good book and a hot cup of coffee.
It’s the kind of place where the waitstaff knows the regulars by name and probably their order too.
Speaking of the staff, they deserve a special mention.
They move with the efficiency of a well-oiled machine, balancing plates with the skill of circus performers.
I’m pretty sure I saw one server carrying enough food to feed a small army, all while maintaining a smile that could light up the darkest Maine winter day.
They’re not just serving food; they’re serving up a slice of home.
As my meal came to an end (or rather, as I admitted defeat in the face of portion sizes that could feed a small country), I found myself already planning my next visit.
Because that’s the thing about Governor’s – one visit is never enough.
There’s always another dish to try, another dessert to sample, another reason to loosen your belt just a little bit more.
It’s the kind of place that becomes a part of your routine, your traditions, your life.
Sure, your doctor might raise an eyebrow at your cholesterol levels, but some things are worth the extra treadmill time.
And Governor’s?
It’s definitely one of those things.
As I waddled out the door, feeling like I’d just participated in some sort of delicious endurance event, I couldn’t help but smile.
Governor’s Restaurant & Bakery isn’t just a place to eat; it’s an experience.
It’s a reminder of the simple joys in life – good food, warm company, and the occasional indulgence.
In a world of trendy food fads and Instagram-worthy plates, Governor’s stands as a bastion of unpretentious, stick-to-your-ribs goodness.
It’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug from an old friend.
And let’s be honest, who couldn’t use more of those in their life?
So, my fellow food enthusiasts, if you find yourself in Old Town, Maine, do yourself a favor and stop by Governor’s.
Come hungry, leave happy, and maybe bring a pair of stretchy pants.
Your taste buds will thank you, even if your waistline might not.
But hey, life’s too short for regrets, especially when there’s pie involved.
And trust me, at Governor’s, there’s always pie involved.
As I drove away, already dreaming of my next visit, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude.
Gratitude for places like Governor’s that remind us of the power of a good meal, the warmth of community, and the joy of indulgence.
In a world that often moves too fast, it’s nice to know there’s still a place where you can slow down, savor every bite, and remember what really matters in life.
Good food, good company, and maybe a slice of pie for the road.
Because at Governor’s, there’s always room for dessert.
And in life, isn’t that what we’re all really looking for?
For more information about Governor’s Restaurant & Bakery, including their full menu and locations, visit their website or Facebook page.
And if you’re planning a visit, use this map to find your way to comfort food paradise.
Where: 963 Stillwater Ave, Old Town, ME 04468
Trust me, your taste buds (and your soul) will thank you.