DuckFAT!

After a whitewater-rafting-drinking extravaganza weekend in central Maine, our crew of eight decided to find a sandwich shop in Portland, Maine’s largest city.  Extensive Google research led us to Duckfat, a quaint restaurant downtown boasting “the best fries on this side of the pond”. 

Proving its popularity, the sandwich shop had about an hour wait.  Thanks to our friend John’s tenacity, we actually waited, lingering down by Portland’s harbor to kill time.  Passing many restaurants, bars and shops, we crossed tiny, cobblestone streets back to Duckfat.  Luckily, and some might even say fated, eight seats patiently waited for us outside.  Excitedly, we skimmed the menu and quickly ordered two large cones of the hand cut Belgian fries with various dipping sauces – truffle ketchup, garlic aioli, Thai chili mayo and Raye’s sweet and spicy mustard.  The waiter recommended a house made Sunburst soda, a citrus blend with anise and tarragon spices, which was crisp and refreshing.  I couldn’t have been happier with the soda and I might even attempt to make it at home.

Our long awaited Paninis finally arrived in front of us.  Tim and I split the Spicy Italian and the Special (house made chicken and pork sausage, onions and peppers with a sweet and spicy mustard house made mustard spread).  Even after trying some of the other mouth-watering choices (Cal ordered the house made meatloaf and Kate had the B.G.T., bacon, goat cheese and tomatoes), the Spicy Italian was the clear winner in my mind.  Fresh slices of salami, capicola and provolone were nestled between two condiments: on top, a dark green, pesto aioli, and on the bottom, a bright red, hot pepper relish.  Vinegar, basil and hot pepper flavors screamed out of the hot, crispy Panini bread.  Every ingredient was made in-house, which made it extra special.  Looking around at our friends, it was clear that everyone had thoroughly enjoyed their meals.  We were so satisfied, we didn’t have room left to order the milkshakes, churros or beignets, but I hear they are just as delicious.  If Duckfat doesn’t come to Boston anytime soon (I’m not holding my breath), I will definitely be making a trip to Portland again.