Bucksport Transforms into Hancock County’s Food Capital in 2025

Bucksport, Maine, has transformed into a burgeoning culinary hub in Hancock County during 2025, with significant changes marking the year. Under the leadership of Mayor Paul Bissonnette, the town has witnessed the opening of four new restaurants, revitalizing its local economy and attracting new residents. Bissonnette noted that the influx of new dining options is part of a broader “renaissance” for Bucksport, as the community continues to evolve following the closure of the Verso Paper mill in 2014.

The arrival of new eateries, including Stowaways Town Tavern, which replaced the long-standing MacLeod’s Restaurant, has generated excitement among locals and visitors alike. Stowaways opened in October, and owner Rob DeGennaro remarked on the restaurant’s immediate popularity, stating that lines were out the door during its opening days. “We’re pulling people in from all angles, all over,” he said, highlighting Bucksport’s central location as a significant draw for patrons.

The culinary scene continues to flourish, with additional establishments like Salsa Shack and Chalee Thai Sushi opening their doors. The latter, owned by Chalee Chaikaew and Vee Napapornipat, brings a new flavor to the town and complements Bucksport’s diverse dining options. Another notable addition is Sweet Cheeks Diner, which replaced Glenn’s Place this fall, receiving an enthusiastic response from the community.

Despite the positive developments, challenges remain for Bucksport as it navigates its post-mill identity. The town is still grappling with the impact of the mill’s closure, including unoccupied industrial land and the need to replace the tax revenue previously generated by the facility. A museum dedicated to the mill’s history has opened, but the town continues to face financial hurdles, including a steep property tax increase this summer that has caused concern among residents.

Bissonnette acknowledged the ongoing transformation, stating, “Towns change, and the only constant is change.” He emphasized that Bucksport’s future will depend on how the community adapts and embraces change, particularly as it seeks to attract new businesses and residents. The town’s central location between Bangor, Belfast, and Ellsworth is a strategic advantage that could facilitate further growth.

Leadership changes have also marked the year, with Town Manager Susan Lessard retiring in June after nearly a decade of service. Lessard played a crucial role in steering Bucksport through its post-mill challenges and was instrumental in maintaining essential services to attract new businesses. Her successor, Jacob Gran, aims to provide continuous support for the town’s growth while focusing on reasonable budgeting.

The loss of another community pillar, Don Houghton, owner of The Bucksport Enterprise, in March has left a gap in local journalism. The newspaper’s closure has raised concerns about the availability of information regarding community events and local government actions. In response, the Penobscot Bay Press has expanded its coverage to fill the void, alongside other new digital platforms.

As Bucksport looks to the future, the town is expected to face a challenging budgeting process in 2026. Bissonnette anticipates increased public participation in budget discussions, emphasizing the importance of balancing growth with affordability for residents. He stated, “It’s a very interesting time right now,” reflecting on the community’s potential as it continues to redefine its identity.

Overall, 2025 has been a pivotal year for Bucksport, characterized by new opportunities and challenges as it seeks to establish itself as a vibrant destination in Hancock County. With ongoing developments and a commitment to innovation, the town is poised for further growth in the years to come.