While supporting local establishments remains a top priority, personally, it wouldn't hurt to have a few more chains closer to home. Here are some popular fast-food chain restaurants in Portland that we'd love to see make their way to Bangor. 

Get our free mobile app

The National Chains:

Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen 

Whenever I visit Portland, I always make it a point to stop by Popeyes. It has become an essential destination for me, whether I'm in the city or passing by the Gardiner rest stop on my way home. If Popeyes were to grace Bangor, we'd all finally have the opportunity to sink our teeth into their famous chicken sandwich and see what the hype is all about (like, 4 years too late).

Crumbl Cookies

Although Crumbl Cookies isn't located in Portland, they do have a branch in Westbrook, which is near enough for me to include it on this list. Crumbl offers scrumptious desserts that are perfect for takeout, delivery, or pick-up. Their treats are freshly made every day, and they boast a delightful assortment of unique and trendy flavors that change on a weekly basis.

IHOP

Located at 195 Maine Mall Rd in Portland. Bangor already boasts a healthy selection of breakfast places, but after all, it’s the most important meal of the day. Therefore, having another option to relish a wholesome morning feast would certainly be a delightful treat.

Panera Bread

Another chain we're missing out on in Bangor is Panera Bread. Currently, the closest Panera is in Augusta, leaving us yearning for the counter-serve bakery/cafe chain's delicious sandwiches, soups, and salads. Panera is renowned for its bread, and it's about time we had a taste of that goodness closer to Stephen King’s home.

Panda Express

Panda Express, located at 364 Maine Mall Rd in South Portland, may have found its niche in malls, but that doesn't stop us from dreaming of having it in Bangor. Who doesn't have fond memories of enjoying some mall Chinese food? While our mall may have seen better days, the thought of indulging in Panda Express's orange chicken or kung pao shrimp while at a Hot Topic right here in Bangor is something worth wishing for.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store

This is another chain that would bring a touch of homey comfort to Bangor. Known for serving American comfort food, this chain restaurant also features an on-site general store, making it a unique dining experience. Picture enjoying a hearty plate of chicken fried steak or indulging in a slice of their famous apple pie without having to travel to South Portland. It's an enticing thought.

The Regional Chains:

OTTO 

With several locations around New England and in Portland and South Portland, OTTO has been delighting pizza lovers since 2009. With their commitment to elevating the pizza experience, it's only fair that Bangor gets a taste of their delectable pies. The potential for an OTTO's arrival in Bangor would add another delightful pizza option to our culinary landscape.

The Holy Donut

High-key, this article was made for The Holy Donut. This artisanal dessert shop, with its locations at 194 Park Ave and 177 Commercial St, has become a beacon of sweetness in Portland and the surrounding areas. With their imaginative donuts made with potatoes and local ingredients, The Holy Donut is truly my happy place. I once drove from Bangor to Scarborough solely for The Holy Donut. After a two-hour drive, I lined up at the drive-thru and then headed back home. While making the drive for a taste of their delightful creations may have been worth it, having a Holy Donut right here in our city would undoubtedly bring joy to donut enthusiasts and foodies alike.

The “We Used to Have and Now Miss Them” Chains:

Arby's

Located at 617 Maine Mall Rd in South Portland, Arby’s is one chain that I fondly recall. You can’t drive by the Bangor Mall without thinking of Arby’s. The thought of their roast beef sandwiches, and curly fries still lingers in my mind. A return of this classic chain would certainly reignite our love for those mouthwatering sandwiches. They have the meats.

Elevation Burger

This is one that left a void that we didn't fully appreciate until it was gone. This eco-minded, fast-food-style chain offered organic burgers, including veggie options, along with delectable fries and shakes. With a growing focus on sustainable and organic dining choices, having Elevation Burger back in Bangor would cater to the changing tastes and values of our community. 

As prioritizing local businesses continues to be of utmost importance, there's no harm in dreaming about these national and regional chains potentially coming to Bangor. They would provide some additional options for those seeking a touch of familiarity or craving a taste of something new. So let's keep our fingers crossed and hope that one day, these chains find their way to our beloved Queen City of the East.