LEWISTON – The public is invited to attend the grand opening of the first Somali-owned restaurant in Lewiston at 1 p.m. Friday, June 27.

The Red Sea Restaurant, at 289 Lisbon St., will bring foods and authentic products of Africa to Maine. The owners hope to provide the community with new ethnic opportunities and experiences.

The grand opening festivities will include Somali food and culture and Franco-American music. A host of community leaders, including Gov. John Baldacci, who have supported the opening are expected to attend.

The food and culture presented at the Red Sea are symbols of the bridges that are being built in Lewiston. These bridges answer Baldacci’s call to strengthen the economy and quality of life in Maine towns and cities.