A new bakery and cafe has opened in Winterport, drawing in customers with cider donuts and a community focus, its owners say.
“It’s been a huge surprise to see how welcoming this community is and how happy they are to have something new here,” said Andrew Norris who owns The Rolling Pin Cafe and Bakery with his husband Jarrett. “They have another choice, and they’re excited.”
The couple opened the cafe in January after running the Prospect Store for two years. Their new spot, located at 145 Main St., serves breakfast and lunch, offering sit-down service and grab-and-go items.
The bakery’s cider doughnuts and scones – made from scratch by Jarrett – have a devoted following, often selling out by 9 a.m.
“Poor Jarrett can’t keep up,” Norris said.
Another favorite is Norris’s corned beef hash, which he makes from brisket cooked overnight.
Sandwiches, paninis and specials like meatloaf made from Norris’s grandmother’s recipe have all been well received.
“Selling out is a good problem to have,” Norris said.
The cafe has a core of regulars from the Winterport area. And while the food is a big draw, the fellowship is, too.
“When the dining room fills up, all of the tables are conversing,” Norris said. “They’re all engaging everybody, which is kind of what we were looking for.”
The Norrises have plans to make the spot even more of a community hub in the coming months. They’re scoping out dates for evening painting workshops, and will open their outdoor patio with seating in the spring. They are also planning to host a farmers’ market in their parking lot.