He grew up on Portland's Munjoy Hill, working in restaurants since he was 8 years old. Now he owns four within less than two blocks in the heart of the city – with another on the way.

Each autumn for the last two decades, pumpkin spice turns up in everything from beer and lattes to pastries and ice creams – even soaps and scented brooms. Maine makers have developed plenty of products to meet the demand.

More national plaudits for Portland restaurants, and Oak & Embers opens in Buxton.

The Miranda Group's upgrade of the longtime Bull Feeney's location is a sign of the area maturing.