The debates have been argued and the political ads watched. The candidates have shaken hands, kissed babies and traveled from coast to country. Now, as the ballots are being cast, all that’s left for the Maine candidates for public office to do is to celebrate campaigns well-fought.
And wait.
And maybe eat something with their supporters.
As the election results come in tonight, candidates will be celebrating throughout the state and awaiting word on who’s won. Here’s a smattering of what they’ll be enjoying tonight.
Italian favorites
Governor Paul LePage will be digging into light Hors d’oeuvres at the Franco-American Heritage Center in Lewiston. Catered by DaVinci’s in Lewiston, the Italian-focused menu will include antipasto skewers, chicken phyllo cups, crudites, bruschetta and Italian meatballs. For dessert, the incumbent governor will nosh on pastries and desserts from local bakeries.
Make it at home: Go fancy with Glazed Blue Cheese Meatballs. This recipe from BDN food columnist Sandy Oliver is downright elegant.
Local flavors
At Port City Music Hall in Portland tonight, Democratic candidate for governor Mike Michaud is going local. He’ll be enjoying some local delights including cheese from Pineland Farm and local beers.
Try it at home: Pineland Farm cheese and local beers are available at supermarkets throughout Maine. Don’t forget the crackers too. Mini pita bites or Triscuits are great options.
Small plates
Independent Eliot Cutler will be at Ocean Gateway in Portland with a winning menu of small bites. He’ll be enjoying mini pulled pork sandwiches, wild mushroom tarts, a fruit and cheese platter, meatballs and assorted veggies.
Make it at home: Check out Fia’s Maine Kitchen for Apple Cider Pulled Pork. Serve bite sized sammies on sturdy little rolls. Mini pretzel rolls are great for this.
Magnificent mashed
In the race for the U.S. Senate, incumbent Susan Collins, who is seeking her fourth term in office, has ordered up comfort food for her supporters at Eastland Park Hotel in Portland — a mashtini bar! Haven’t heard of it? It’s a DIY mashed potato bar with all the fixin’s. Party-goers concoct their own mashed potato concoctions in martini glasses digging into all the favorites including sour cream and bacon. There’ll also be what’s been billed as “standard party fare.”
Try it at home: Whip up a batch of your favorite mashed potatoes and set up a serving bar with toppings including crumbled crisp bacon, sour cream, chives, chili, cheeses, gravy and whatever else strikes your fancy.
Italian-Greek delights
Democratic challenger Shenna Bellows will be at the Italian-Greek restaurant Cleonice in Ellsworth, serving food from the restaurant’s menu — naturally. Red and white wine, soft drinks and punch will be served along with the full Cleonice drink menu available for purchase. Finger foods, pizza by the slice and more substantial appetizers and entrees available for purchase at Cleonice prices.
Make it at home: Why not whip up a batch of Fried Halloumi with Beet Greens Bruschetta to nibble on as results come in? Or pick up a few apps from your favorite local establishments and enjoy them all night long.