We begin with news that Forage, formerly Forage Market, on Lisbon Street in Lewiston, quietly re-opened for indoor seating Wednesday for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic took hold and forced the popular eatery and café to close its Lewiston and Portland locations on March 17, 2020.

Managing partner Whitney Pelletier said her staff and partner Allen Smith are looking forward to “becoming the community go-to place again.” A formal announcement of the full reopening is expected from the popular eatery next week.

Fresh paint, a few upgrades here and there and a “more concise menu featuring people’s favorites” is what you’ll find in what Pelletier describes as a quick, self-serve-style format. Business has been steadily growing, she said, with the Portland location having its best summer in 2021 since the location opened in 2018. The Lewiston location is now 10 years old.

The pandemic forced Forage to reinvent itself, but not its business model, said Pelletier. She adds they plan to add to the menu as they hear from customers and experiment with new ideas. Meanwhile they’ll be keeping their bagels coming.

Hours are now 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. seven days a week.

LEWISTON FARMER’S MARKET MOVES TO NEW LOCATION

The Lewiston Farmer’s Market is moving, but not too far. Opening day is set for May 8 at 2 Oxford St., not far from Lewiston House of Pizza. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Boasting a view of the canal and Simard Payne Park, visitors can expect the usual variety of vendors selling Maine grown and produced goods, including fresh, organic fruits and vegetables, grass-fed meats, cow and goat dairy products, baked goods, mushrooms, fresh-cut flowers and much more.

The new location will allow expanded community programs, room for more vendors and a closer link to community-wide events, organizers say.

SAIGON PHO COMING SOON TO LISBON STREET

Saigon Pho is almost ready to open its doors at 791 Lisbon St., Lewiston, formerly The Olive Branch Café. The Vietnamese and Thai food restaurant is hiring servers and kitchen help.

Owner Chau Dang asks that people interested in a position call him first at (207) 951-1498 in order to arrange filling out an application. Dang said he is working 12-hour days readying for next week’s final inspections with the city of Lewiston and that he plans to open at the end of the month.

Stay tuned!

The Buzz offers quick hits about trending area business happenings. Have a Buzzable tip? Contact staff writer Christopher Wheelock at 689-2844 or cwheelock@sunjournal.com

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Saigon Pho plans opening on Lisbon Street at the end of the month