A MORNING AT ROSE FOODS IN PORTLAND, MAINE

Kate Curcio
3 days ago
2 min read

When you’re chasing the scuttlebutt around Portland, you never know where it’s going to lead you and this time, it led me straight to a breakfast sandwich I haven’t stopped thinking about.

While filming a Maine Scuttlebutt episode at the Hearts of Pine game, I ran into Graham Platner, who’s currently running for Senate here in Maine. Naturally, I had to ask him: “What’s the scuttlebutt in Portland, Maine?”

His answer? Start your day at Rose Foods.

I had no breakfast plans the next morning, so that was all I needed to hear.

Tucked on the south side of Forest Avenue, Rose Foods is one of those places that immediately catches your eye. The building itself is so charming, classic, and inviting. I pulled up, grabbed a spot right out front, and headed inside.

From the moment I walked in, I was hooked.

The vibe? Vintage in the best way. It felt like stepping back in time—warm, nostalgic, and effortlessly cool.

Between the tables, window bar seating, and thoughtfully curated details, it’s the kind of place you want to linger.

And yes… I noticed the merch right away. You know I love good merch.

I walked up to the counter fully planning to order my usual: a plain bagel with cream cheese. But something about the place made me want to switch it up.

So I asked the woman at the register what customers love most.

Without hesitation, she said: “You should try the Henry the VIII.”

Sold. She was incredibly kind and helpful. Exactly the kind of energy you want when you’re trying something new.

I placed my order and wandered into the back room, where there’s even more seating. It quickly became clear this is a true neighborhood spot. Locals popping in and out, regulars chatting, that easy morning rhythm.

When my sandwich was ready, I grabbed a seat by the window and dug in.

Immediate reaction: this is the real deal.

The Henry the VIII is built around a pastrami nova with parsley and horseradish, and every single ingredient tasted intentional. Fresh. High-quality. No shortcuts.

And the bagel? Perfectly baked. That ideal balance of a slight crunch on the outside with that soft, chewy interior.

It’s one of those meals where you pause halfway through and think, “Yep… I’m coming back.”

Rose Foods does it right. Simple, clean, and seriously delicious.

It’s not trying too hard. It doesn’t need to. It’s just really, really good food in a space that feels like it’s been part of the neighborhood forever.

It’s been a week since I went… and I’m already planning my next visit.