Our 2012 Cabin Fever Mystery Trip did not disappoint. The day was cold and crisp and we had snowfall the night before, but all of us were ready for the day. Our destination was Portland, about a three hour drive from Warren, and two fine tour guides were waiting for us when we arrived at the trolley stop on Commercial Street. They took us all over town, showing us the sights and the sites. We ended up in Cape Elizabeth where we made a stop in Fort Williams Park so that we could see the Portland Lighthouse up close. The sun felt good on such a cold day.
Afterward, we crossed the bridge and made a bee line for DiMillo's Floating Restaurant where we had reserved a private dining room on the upper deck with splendid views of the harbor. DiMillo's is actually an old ferry boat that has been converted to a restaurant. It's located at the end of Long Wharf. The atmosphere is upscale and the food is terrific. We had a choice of Baked Haddock, Sea Scallops, or Breast of Chicken, and all ended up being excellent choices. Our passengers were treated like royalty!
SEASIDE LUNCHEON
New England Clam Chowder
Fresh Breads
*****
Choice of Entrée:
Chicken Breast with Cranberry Cornbread Stuffing
and Apple Mustard Glaze
Broiled Haddock with Seasoned Bread Crumbs and Lemon Butter
Baked Sea Scallops with Ritz Cracker Crumbs
and Honey Butter
All served with fresh vegetable and potato
*****
Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce
Coffee, Tea, Soft Drinks Included
Cash Bar
The finishing touch was shopping Commercial Street in Portland. This is the old port and the shops are interesting and innovative. You can find terrific clothing stores, home decorating shops, a great kitchen store, and more. Those not wanting to shop, can choose from a dozen sailors' bars and watering holes including J's Oyster. Some also paid a visit to the Fishermen's Co-op on the next pier where they could purchase fish that was caught the morning of our trip. We headed home by about 4PM.