Punky's — Restaurant in Portland

Ok, this place is ridiculous. Got off the plane from DC (what is a “Jet Port” anyway?) I grew up in New Orleans. Good food credentials established. Punky’s absolutely kills. Full disclosure- I did not get a sandwich. They had a selection of cold cut sandwiches which are not my jam. But the home cooked meals? The hell? Awesome!!! They had hot plates with boxed up chili Mac and cheese, beef stroganoff, and chicken pot pie. It was after one and almost completely sold out. The pot pie was they best I’ve ever had, big ole hunks of chicken and potatoes, great flavor. Oh- and the woman waiting on me was a gem of a human soul- so helpful and kind!! Based on how little was left with lunch hour still going, it’s clear that this little old school, non pretentious dive is no secret to locals and a must visit for out of towners like me. I’m here for a long weekend....

I’d always heard great things about the service and the general pricing points of the subs, soups and sandwiches at Punky’s, but I’d never heard anything about how the food actually tastes. After a few visits to give the place an honest shot at winning my patronage, it was more than obvious why I’d never heard a peep about taste, flavor or palatability whenever Punky’s was mentioned in a conversation about sandwich shops in Portland. It’s because there isn’t anything nice to say. The food is wholly unremarkable. I mean, it is just as bland and plain as can be. And yet, this place has been surviving for years. It’s confounding.

To a degree, I guess the old adage “you get what you pay for” rings true here, but you’d just be better off not paying for anything at Punky’s and getting something...

Punky's is a Hidden Gem in Portland Maine. Punky's makes large casserole dishes and serve them via ala carte as you walk down the line you choose what you want.

They make everything from shepherd's pie, to mac and cheese, beef stroganoff, lasagna, all of the normal Comfort Foods that most people from New England enjoy.

I give this restaurant a 5 out of 5 because the staff is incredibly friendly, the food is second to none, there's ample parking and getting your food and getting out is a fairly quick Endeavor compared to most restaurants.

I don't recall seeing sitting inside however I could be mistaken, I usually go down pick up what I want and leave with it which I think is what's usual here.

The portions are massive, one order of shepherd's pie can easily...